Due to low use... we are discontinuing the Blog of our reading plan. We encourage you to continue the reading plan (you can get the pdf on this site - check the right hand column). We are also brainstorming other ways to help people stay in the Word. If you have ideas, you can email office@crosswindschurch.com
This was a great experiment and we look forward to trying something else in the future.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
Week 48 - December 20 - Taylor Hays
Nehemiah 5
A lot of leadership seminars in business teach the concept of “servant leadership.” Over 2500 years ago Nehemiah was already practicing this principle. He was a leader who truly had the best interests of his people at heart. In this chapter he gives a clear message to all of the wealthy people in Israel… stop oppressing the poor. In order to live in the land that had been ravaged by invaders the people had to mortgage their land from their enemies and borrow more every year just to get their crops in the ground. They were so far in debt that they even had to sell their children into slavery. Nehemiah had repaid the debt to their enemies so the people would be free. But his own noblemen were now loaning money with high interest rates to the people and they were becoming enslaved to debt again. Nehemiah rebuked this practice and “practiced what he preached.” He loaned money interest free and never asked the people to give him anything. His desire was for them to prosper. Compare his actions with many political leaders today who are out to serve their own interests.
When I am in a position of leadership I want to always keep in mind Nehemiah’s example… serve others needs first (Philippians 2:3 Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.4 Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.).
Nehemiah 6
Nehemiah’s strength of character shines again in this chapter. His enemies used intimidation (today we call it extortion and blackmail) to convince Nehemiah to stop rebuilding the wall. In fact Nehemiah saw his mission not as simply a construction project but as a project to rebuild the lives of the people he served. He knew that he would face opposition and he took it head on. His main ally in standing against his enemies was his integrity. Although his enemies attacked his character, Nehemiah lived in such a way that their accusations simply would not stick. None of us is perfect but living a life of integrity provides no opportunity for our enemies (or The Enemy) to accuse us. (see 1 Peter 5:8-9)
Psalm 48
We will get to see it some day too…
“We had heard of the city's glory, but now we have seen it ourselves— the city of the LORD of Heaven's Armies.”
This is the place that Jesus has prepared for us (see John 14:1-3). It will be our safe home forever.“It is the city of our God; he will make it safe forever.”
Proverbs 5
Sexual sin is the fastest way to ruin your life. It robs you of true love and relationship with your spouse and family; it robs you of health (mental and physical); and robs you of a close relationship with God. I have seen dozens of examples of this have in my lifetime and I am sure you have too.
Acts 27
This is probably the most detailed description of a 1st century sea voyage found in any ancient writing. Beyond reading the great description of the action at sea, We see Paul demonstrate his unshakeable faith in God. Imagine standing in the hold of this ship that is being tossed by a hurricane, surrounded by over 200 souls that are seasick and fearing for their lives. Paul broke bread and gave thanks to God for what He was about to do. Paul’s faith was great not because of his own strength but because of the great God he served.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Week 45 - November 29 - Robyn Watts
For those who are visual learners here's a depiction of the priestly garments described in chapter 39. It strikes me that Israel throughout this time had been extremely obedient (following the golden calf disaster). Many times it is mentioned that things were done by Moses, "according to all that the Lord commanded him."
And finally, Moses finished the work. God comes and dwells with his people. He comes by the cloud and fire (significant symbols throughout the Bible of the manifestation of God's glory). God is reminding them that He is their God... that He brought them out of the land of Egypt in order that He might dwell among them. How they must have enjoyed this closeness with God. They knew He was there. Often times, for me, this also happens following a period of obedience. I feel the nearness of God. Not that He's not always there, but I am able to sense Him so much more the more obedient I am.
Psalm 45
This psalm celebrates a royal wedding. Whose is unclear, but it would be a king in the line of David... the line through which God would bless His people and carry out his whole world mission. It begins with words speaking to the king... focusing him in on character and ideals he should have as a king. It then moves onto the bride...she will leave her family and join her husband in a new life. The psalm ends coming back to the king showing again that God will bless all the nations through the line of David.
Proverbs 2
A couple results of seeking wisdom....
1. You will understand the fear of the Lord (what does this really mean?)
2. You gain an understanding of righteousness and justice and equity (wow!)
Acts 24
I think if I had been Paul, I would have been close to giving up by now. Unlike me, Paul uses this "opportunity" to come before Felix and yet again proclaim the truth of the Gospel. He confesses to the middle charge Tertullus brings against him (being a Christian ringleader), but denies the first and third charges (stirring up riots and profaning "the temple") To the Romans, the first charge would have been the worst (threatening Roman peace). I find it interesting Felix is said to have, "an accurate knowledge of The Way". Probably because of his Jewish wife? But, in the end, Felix does nothing to free Paul, despite this knowledge. He decides to keep him in prison another 2 years and then was removed from office, leaving Festus, his successor to deal with Paul. At least Paul was granted "some liberty", which I'm guessing meant he was not sitting in a jail cell the whole time.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Week 43 - November 15 - Dan Swartz
Exodus 35
There is lots of talk these days about nature vs. nurture for many talents, abilities, characteristics, and traits. This chapter throws in the curve ball of supernatural gifting for not pastors, teachers, or prophets, but craftsman! It’s always encouraging to see God gift people for what have ya, and watch them do their work with excellence.
Exodus 36
Verses 1-8 are what pastors dream about. Hold up on the offerings congregation – we have more than enough! What a testimony that would be. . .
The rest of the chapter describes in pain-staking, seemingly redundant detail how Bezalel and colleagues completed the Tabernacle as directed. Nothing like the lingering taste of ground up golden cow in your water to remind you of the importance of obedience and focus.
Psalm 43
This may sound a bit harsh, but I don’t see much that distinguishes this from many of the previous psalms. If repeated must be important?
Ecclesiastes 12
Verse 11 is an important lesson to learn early. Sometimes painful things teach us important lessons, and can be life saving (both temporal and eternal).
Acts 22
This chapter reminds me of the importance of simply telling my story and how Christ has changed my life. Also noteworthy is that doing so may infuriate some. Although a Christian first, Paul wasn’t shy about playing the Roman citizen card. We shouldn’t be shy about playing similar cards in our lives to advance God’s kingdom.
There is lots of talk these days about nature vs. nurture for many talents, abilities, characteristics, and traits. This chapter throws in the curve ball of supernatural gifting for not pastors, teachers, or prophets, but craftsman! It’s always encouraging to see God gift people for what have ya, and watch them do their work with excellence.
Exodus 36
Verses 1-8 are what pastors dream about. Hold up on the offerings congregation – we have more than enough! What a testimony that would be. . .
The rest of the chapter describes in pain-staking, seemingly redundant detail how Bezalel and colleagues completed the Tabernacle as directed. Nothing like the lingering taste of ground up golden cow in your water to remind you of the importance of obedience and focus.
Psalm 43
This may sound a bit harsh, but I don’t see much that distinguishes this from many of the previous psalms. If repeated must be important?
Ecclesiastes 12
Verse 11 is an important lesson to learn early. Sometimes painful things teach us important lessons, and can be life saving (both temporal and eternal).
Acts 22
This chapter reminds me of the importance of simply telling my story and how Christ has changed my life. Also noteworthy is that doing so may infuriate some. Although a Christian first, Paul wasn’t shy about playing the Roman citizen card. We shouldn’t be shy about playing similar cards in our lives to advance God’s kingdom.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Week 42 - November 8 - Taylor Hays
Exodus 33 and 34
What a difference a day makes! One day the whole nation was celebrating God’s glorious presence and the next they are worshiping an idol (the “golden calf”). One day they are walking close to God and the next they have completely abandoned him. In our lives we may not see these extremes, but these patterns of becoming warm and cold toward God happen to all of us at some time.
In Exodus 33 we see God’s response… judgment. Had it not been for Moses’ interventions, they would have lost their relationship with God. In chapters 33 and 34 we also see the stark contrast between the people and Moses in the way they approached God. Moses had a personal and intimate relationship with God. In verse 33:33 God told Moses, “I know you by name.”
In these chapters Moses is a picture of Jesus. He has a personal and intimate relationship with God and He is our go-between with God, just as Moses was to the people. But Moses could not do for Israel what Jesus does for us because Moses was a man with all the same imperfections as all his fellow Israelites. As the writer of the New Testament book of Hebrews notes:
4:14 So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe.15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
In these chapters of Exodus only Moses can approach God. Now we all can approach God and never have to be far away from him again.
Psalm 42
Where do your thoughts turn when you are down? The writer of this Psalm was dealing with the difficult circumstance of being constantly harassed by his enemies. Their constant taunts were really getting to him. How did he get past his problems?
His thoughts turned to better times when he felt close to God and then he remembered (verse 5)…
God had not moved. God’s power to help him had not diminished. This Psalm reminds me that when I am really discouraged there is one constant… God’s never failing love for me.
Ecclesiastes 11
In verses 1-6 the theme is life’s uncertainty. Living wisely means that we should do all we can to limit that uncertainty but we know we cannot eliminate it. Invest your time and money wisely, work hard when the opportunity is there, and leave the rest to God.
Verses 7-10 provide advice about life for everyone from 9 to 99 years old. For the old “rejoice in every day” (verse 8) and for the young “enjoy every minute of it” verse 9). Enough said!
Acts 21
In this chapter we see the beginning of the final drama in the book of Acts. Paul has now returned to Jerusalem after his 3rd missionary journey that took him through what is now Turkey and Greece. He returned to Jerusalem even though many had warned him that trouble was waiting for him there. After his report to the Jerusalem church leadership team, they asked Paul for a favor. Because many of the Jewish Christians had heard rumors (that were all false) that Paul was teaching openly against the Jewish customs, the church leaders asked him to accompany 4 young men who were Jewish Christians through a Jewish ceremony at the temple. When some Jews who were not believers in Jesus saw Paul in the temple they started a full blown riot and encouraged the mob to kill Paul. He was rescued by the Roman soldiers who were stationed nearby and as the chapter closes Paul is about to speak to the crowd.
One question that puzzles me as I read this is why did Paul keep going toward Jerusalem when he was told it was too dangerous (and as we see, the concerns for Paul’s safety were right on target)? You have to keep reading in Acts (and other books like Philippians) to find the answer. One thought that kept Paul going through this and other ordeals to come is found in Philippians 4:12-13 “I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”
What a difference a day makes! One day the whole nation was celebrating God’s glorious presence and the next they are worshiping an idol (the “golden calf”). One day they are walking close to God and the next they have completely abandoned him. In our lives we may not see these extremes, but these patterns of becoming warm and cold toward God happen to all of us at some time.
In Exodus 33 we see God’s response… judgment. Had it not been for Moses’ interventions, they would have lost their relationship with God. In chapters 33 and 34 we also see the stark contrast between the people and Moses in the way they approached God. Moses had a personal and intimate relationship with God. In verse 33:33 God told Moses, “I know you by name.”
In these chapters Moses is a picture of Jesus. He has a personal and intimate relationship with God and He is our go-between with God, just as Moses was to the people. But Moses could not do for Israel what Jesus does for us because Moses was a man with all the same imperfections as all his fellow Israelites. As the writer of the New Testament book of Hebrews notes:
4:14 So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe.15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
In these chapters of Exodus only Moses can approach God. Now we all can approach God and never have to be far away from him again.
Psalm 42
Where do your thoughts turn when you are down? The writer of this Psalm was dealing with the difficult circumstance of being constantly harassed by his enemies. Their constant taunts were really getting to him. How did he get past his problems?
His thoughts turned to better times when he felt close to God and then he remembered (verse 5)…
Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God!
I will praise him again—my Savior and my God!
God had not moved. God’s power to help him had not diminished. This Psalm reminds me that when I am really discouraged there is one constant… God’s never failing love for me.
Ecclesiastes 11
In verses 1-6 the theme is life’s uncertainty. Living wisely means that we should do all we can to limit that uncertainty but we know we cannot eliminate it. Invest your time and money wisely, work hard when the opportunity is there, and leave the rest to God.
Verses 7-10 provide advice about life for everyone from 9 to 99 years old. For the old “rejoice in every day” (verse 8) and for the young “enjoy every minute of it” verse 9). Enough said!
Acts 21
In this chapter we see the beginning of the final drama in the book of Acts. Paul has now returned to Jerusalem after his 3rd missionary journey that took him through what is now Turkey and Greece. He returned to Jerusalem even though many had warned him that trouble was waiting for him there. After his report to the Jerusalem church leadership team, they asked Paul for a favor. Because many of the Jewish Christians had heard rumors (that were all false) that Paul was teaching openly against the Jewish customs, the church leaders asked him to accompany 4 young men who were Jewish Christians through a Jewish ceremony at the temple. When some Jews who were not believers in Jesus saw Paul in the temple they started a full blown riot and encouraged the mob to kill Paul. He was rescued by the Roman soldiers who were stationed nearby and as the chapter closes Paul is about to speak to the crowd.
One question that puzzles me as I read this is why did Paul keep going toward Jerusalem when he was told it was too dangerous (and as we see, the concerns for Paul’s safety were right on target)? You have to keep reading in Acts (and other books like Philippians) to find the answer. One thought that kept Paul going through this and other ordeals to come is found in Philippians 4:12-13 “I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”
Monday, November 2, 2009
Week 41 - November 1 - Doug Weincouff
Exodus 31
This chapter is broken into two separate topics. The first is God’s instructions to Moses regarding the creation of the Tent of Meetings, the Ark of the Covenant and all the furniture and garments for the priests. Two thoughts strike me about this passage. The first is about how detailed God’s planning was. God identifies the people for Moses’ that he has gifted to create the items. He has also given the artist all the materials from the Egyptians to create the items. It reminds me that God is a God of organization and structure. When it comes to God, events are not random but intentional. It is seen in this chapter and all over the Bible. God has given us instructions for life. The challenge is our willingness and unwillingness to live life God’s way. It makes me ask how am I doing at following God’s instructions?
The second half of the chapter focus’s on the Sabbath. Keeping the Sabbath has always been a puzzle to me. Most of us have reduced it to a couple of hours at church on Sunday. When I was growing up my family would once a year go visit my mother’s family in Alabama. Let me say the South is another country. I noticed that on Sunday’s all the stores were closed. In Chicago where we lived the stores were open. My Dad explained that they had “Blue Laws”. Blue Laws were designed to enforce religious life, in this case keeping the Sabbath. Over the last 40 years the south has become more sophisticated. The Blue Laws were deemed unconstitutional and now you can shop till you drop on Sundays even south of the Mason Dixie Line. What does it mean to keep the Sabbath? Does it require an entire day? How do you personally put aside a time of rest and reflection for God?
Exodus 32
Chapter 32 reminds us how quickly what God has given us for good we can turn to evil. Without spiritual leadership the people decide to create their own altar and idol to worship. The same skills intended to create the Tent of Meeting and all the items for the priests are used to create a golden Calf. The same gold and silver from Egypt are used to make the idol.
What strikes me is how quickly the spiritual temperature of the nation of Israel turned. It is a warning for me to not let too much time go by without reading my Bible or spending time with other believers. I need to stay focused on my relationship with God because I can easily become distracted. I can start to follow my own plans. Are you using the talents and resources God has given you for his plans or your own?
Psalm 41
It was written by David during a time when life was not going well. He was seriously ill. He believed it was a result of sin in his life. He felt like all his friends had turned on him. In some ways David was throwing a pity party. The encouraging aspect of this Psalm is that David turns to God for mercy and help. It reminds me that when life is not going the way I want it to go I need to refocus on God. Is there anything in my life I need to address so that I am doing life God’s way.
Ecclesiastes 10
Ecclesiastes 10 is a chapter of sayings that hold one common theme: be wise! As I read the chapter I can’t help but have a picture of 16 or 17 year old guys learning things the hard way. Having been one, I can say with confidence that often during the teen years guys come up with what they think great ideas or plans that in theory are awesome and in practice not so good. I can remember when some of my friends and I thought having a Roman Candle fireworks battle was a good idea. I wish someone older and wiser would have been around to stop that idea. We almost burnt a house down. This chapter reminds us to think first before acting or speaking. In both of these areas I need to continue to grow. How about you?
Acts 20
In Acts 20 we find Paul planning his return to Jerusalem. He knew that life was about to get harder. God had given him the insight that prison and suffering awaited him. Even knowing this he goes forward with his plans. It is reminiscent of Jesus talking to the disciples the night before his crucifixion. He wants the very best for them. He warns them that there will be challenges ahead and people that want to destroy the church. Being faithful and following through with God’s plans is the most important value of Paul’s life. I hope that at the end of my life I will be able to look back and see that I have kept the faith and run the race God had set before me.
This chapter is broken into two separate topics. The first is God’s instructions to Moses regarding the creation of the Tent of Meetings, the Ark of the Covenant and all the furniture and garments for the priests. Two thoughts strike me about this passage. The first is about how detailed God’s planning was. God identifies the people for Moses’ that he has gifted to create the items. He has also given the artist all the materials from the Egyptians to create the items. It reminds me that God is a God of organization and structure. When it comes to God, events are not random but intentional. It is seen in this chapter and all over the Bible. God has given us instructions for life. The challenge is our willingness and unwillingness to live life God’s way. It makes me ask how am I doing at following God’s instructions?
The second half of the chapter focus’s on the Sabbath. Keeping the Sabbath has always been a puzzle to me. Most of us have reduced it to a couple of hours at church on Sunday. When I was growing up my family would once a year go visit my mother’s family in Alabama. Let me say the South is another country. I noticed that on Sunday’s all the stores were closed. In Chicago where we lived the stores were open. My Dad explained that they had “Blue Laws”. Blue Laws were designed to enforce religious life, in this case keeping the Sabbath. Over the last 40 years the south has become more sophisticated. The Blue Laws were deemed unconstitutional and now you can shop till you drop on Sundays even south of the Mason Dixie Line. What does it mean to keep the Sabbath? Does it require an entire day? How do you personally put aside a time of rest and reflection for God?
Exodus 32
Chapter 32 reminds us how quickly what God has given us for good we can turn to evil. Without spiritual leadership the people decide to create their own altar and idol to worship. The same skills intended to create the Tent of Meeting and all the items for the priests are used to create a golden Calf. The same gold and silver from Egypt are used to make the idol.
What strikes me is how quickly the spiritual temperature of the nation of Israel turned. It is a warning for me to not let too much time go by without reading my Bible or spending time with other believers. I need to stay focused on my relationship with God because I can easily become distracted. I can start to follow my own plans. Are you using the talents and resources God has given you for his plans or your own?
Psalm 41
It was written by David during a time when life was not going well. He was seriously ill. He believed it was a result of sin in his life. He felt like all his friends had turned on him. In some ways David was throwing a pity party. The encouraging aspect of this Psalm is that David turns to God for mercy and help. It reminds me that when life is not going the way I want it to go I need to refocus on God. Is there anything in my life I need to address so that I am doing life God’s way.
Ecclesiastes 10
Ecclesiastes 10 is a chapter of sayings that hold one common theme: be wise! As I read the chapter I can’t help but have a picture of 16 or 17 year old guys learning things the hard way. Having been one, I can say with confidence that often during the teen years guys come up with what they think great ideas or plans that in theory are awesome and in practice not so good. I can remember when some of my friends and I thought having a Roman Candle fireworks battle was a good idea. I wish someone older and wiser would have been around to stop that idea. We almost burnt a house down. This chapter reminds us to think first before acting or speaking. In both of these areas I need to continue to grow. How about you?
Acts 20
In Acts 20 we find Paul planning his return to Jerusalem. He knew that life was about to get harder. God had given him the insight that prison and suffering awaited him. Even knowing this he goes forward with his plans. It is reminiscent of Jesus talking to the disciples the night before his crucifixion. He wants the very best for them. He warns them that there will be challenges ahead and people that want to destroy the church. Being faithful and following through with God’s plans is the most important value of Paul’s life. I hope that at the end of my life I will be able to look back and see that I have kept the faith and run the race God had set before me.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Week 40 - October 25 - Merv Miller
Exodus 29.30
This is, I have to honest, one of the chapters that I must have read over half asleep or totally inattentive because I just didn’t feel that there was anything practical for me in it, just a long list of seemingly random rules and procedures to adhere to. But in the 3rd century BC the culture was very familiar with sacrifices. It’s what priests did. Most communities had god’s and priests for that matter. Their priest may have had a specialty like making sure the crops were good or lightning didn’t strike or whatever but the Israelites worship was about God’s presence among them. Here are the last words of this chapter: “I will live among the people of Israel and be their God, 46 and they will know that I am the LORD their God. I am the one who brought them out of Egypt so that I could live among them.”
This is, I have to honest, one of the chapters that I must have read over half asleep or totally inattentive because I just didn’t feel that there was anything practical for me in it, just a long list of seemingly random rules and procedures to adhere to. But in the 3rd century BC the culture was very familiar with sacrifices. It’s what priests did. Most communities had god’s and priests for that matter. Their priest may have had a specialty like making sure the crops were good or lightning didn’t strike or whatever but the Israelites worship was about God’s presence among them. Here are the last words of this chapter: “I will live among the people of Israel and be their God, 46 and they will know that I am the LORD their God. I am the one who brought them out of Egypt so that I could live among them.”
Chapter 30
Here’s an interesting verse, again the last verse : “Never make this incense for yourselves. It is reserved for the LORD, and you must treat it as holy. 38 Those who make it for their own enjoyment will be cut off from the community."
Is it possible that we create worship for our own enjoyment? Once in a while I hear people say “ I don’t like that song” What they may mean is that personally I don’t prefer that song. But really the song isn’t for you, It’s for God. The last verse in Chapter 30 reminds me of that.
Psalm 40
About 300 years separate the Exodus narrative from the writing of the psalms. In this Psalm the writer in trying to make sense of the religious heritage of Moses. And comes to a conclusion in verse 6: “You take no delight in sacrifices or offerings. Now that you have made me listen, I finally understand – you don't require burnt offerings or sin offerings.” Does this reveal an evolution of faith and understanding of what God really desires from us as His children?
Ecclesiastes 9
Solomon was a philosopher. He observed life objectively and it left him with questions. That’s the nature of Philosophy; it often leaves you with more questions than answers. But I love to hear what they have to say. This verse caught my attention for some reason: “the quiet words of a wise person are better than the shouts of a foolish king.”
Acts 19
I think it’s interesting that Paul gave up trying to teach spiritual truth in the synagogue at Ephesus and moved his teaching to a secular venue. His ministry there became so successful that it disrupted the economy in the town by putting idol builders out of business. What business could we put out of business in this town because of changed lives?
Friday, October 16, 2009
Week 39 - October 18 - Robyn Watts
Exodus 27-28
As I read the description of how the Israelites were to build the Altar as well as how they are to make the clothing for the Levites I am struck by a few things...
1. God is in the details. If He cared enough to dictate the very best craftsmanship for a tabernacle and clothing.. how much more does He care about the tiny details of our life?
2. God required the Israelites to give Him their best. And He would do (and had done) the same.
3. The place where God resides within the Israelite community was to be special, set apart, holy.... the place where Christ resides now should be the same.... "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body."
(1 Corinthians 6:19)
Psalm 39
Nice! I think we've got this one covered! :-)
Ecclesiastes 8
"Wisdom brightens a man's face and changes its hard appearance." vs.1
This chapter reminds me judgement is not in my hands.... I will not always understand the reason behind things that happen here on Earth. But, I can trust in the One who does, who Was and Is and Always Will Be.... (breaking out into song here...)
Acts 18
It is amazing to me how Paul just never gave up. He continued to do what God asked of him, even though it seemed impossible (at least, that's what it seems to me as I only read it, not live it.). However, we do see a bit of frustration here in chapter 18. Paul is just fed up. He gets a word directly from the Lord though and is encouraged on with the task before him and Paul ends up staying a year and a half in the place where so many people hate him (of course, everywhere Paul went people hated him...). I get mixed feelings when I read about Paul. On the one hand, I get reved up, thinking... "I'm willing to do anything for you God!" (think... Peter!) On the other hand, I look at what Paul had to endure and am not so sure that's what I really want! Ultimately, like Paul... I think we need to obey whatever it is God is asking us to do at the time... He will provide what we need to accomplish it. Paul's "mission" was to spread the news of Jesus to Jews and those who weren't Jews. What's your "mission" right now? This hopefully is more clear after the past 30 days!
As I read the description of how the Israelites were to build the Altar as well as how they are to make the clothing for the Levites I am struck by a few things...
1. God is in the details. If He cared enough to dictate the very best craftsmanship for a tabernacle and clothing.. how much more does He care about the tiny details of our life?
2. God required the Israelites to give Him their best. And He would do (and had done) the same.
3. The place where God resides within the Israelite community was to be special, set apart, holy.... the place where Christ resides now should be the same.... "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body."
(1 Corinthians 6:19)
Psalm 39
Nice! I think we've got this one covered! :-)
Ecclesiastes 8
"Wisdom brightens a man's face and changes its hard appearance." vs.1
This chapter reminds me judgement is not in my hands.... I will not always understand the reason behind things that happen here on Earth. But, I can trust in the One who does, who Was and Is and Always Will Be.... (breaking out into song here...)
Acts 18
It is amazing to me how Paul just never gave up. He continued to do what God asked of him, even though it seemed impossible (at least, that's what it seems to me as I only read it, not live it.). However, we do see a bit of frustration here in chapter 18. Paul is just fed up. He gets a word directly from the Lord though and is encouraged on with the task before him and Paul ends up staying a year and a half in the place where so many people hate him (of course, everywhere Paul went people hated him...). I get mixed feelings when I read about Paul. On the one hand, I get reved up, thinking... "I'm willing to do anything for you God!" (think... Peter!) On the other hand, I look at what Paul had to endure and am not so sure that's what I really want! Ultimately, like Paul... I think we need to obey whatever it is God is asking us to do at the time... He will provide what we need to accomplish it. Paul's "mission" was to spread the news of Jesus to Jews and those who weren't Jews. What's your "mission" right now? This hopefully is more clear after the past 30 days!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Week 38 - October 11 - Doug Mathers
Exoldus 25-26
What is the connection between the list of acceptable offerings (25:1-7) and the rest of the chapters?
How does this relate to our gifts, sacrifices, and use of abilities?
Read 25:8 - What kind of "sacred residence" is God looking for today?
Psalm 38
This Psalm of David is written when David was feeling the wieght and guilt of his own sin. As you read it, try to identify the different effects his sin had on his life. Have you ever felt that way? What was the key for David's recovery? Do you think Christians should ever feel the way David did? Why or why not? (I John 1:9)
Ecclesiastes 7
How does our 30 Days To Live series relate to the opening 14 verses of this chapter? What central truth about humanity does Solomon observe in the rest of the chapter? Thus the need for a savior.
Acts 17
Consider, why would a church want to name itself after the followers of Berea? (As in the "Berean Church" - we have one such church in town).
What bothered Paul as he walked through Athens? Do you ever get bothered as you walk through Rochester? or through our television stations?
What ingenious strategy did Paul use to speak to people in Athens? How can we do the same as a church and as individuals?
What is the connection between the list of acceptable offerings (25:1-7) and the rest of the chapters?
How does this relate to our gifts, sacrifices, and use of abilities?
Read 25:8 - What kind of "sacred residence" is God looking for today?
Psalm 38
This Psalm of David is written when David was feeling the wieght and guilt of his own sin. As you read it, try to identify the different effects his sin had on his life. Have you ever felt that way? What was the key for David's recovery? Do you think Christians should ever feel the way David did? Why or why not? (I John 1:9)
Ecclesiastes 7
How does our 30 Days To Live series relate to the opening 14 verses of this chapter? What central truth about humanity does Solomon observe in the rest of the chapter? Thus the need for a savior.
Acts 17
Consider, why would a church want to name itself after the followers of Berea? (As in the "Berean Church" - we have one such church in town).
What bothered Paul as he walked through Athens? Do you ever get bothered as you walk through Rochester? or through our television stations?
What ingenious strategy did Paul use to speak to people in Athens? How can we do the same as a church and as individuals?
Friday, October 2, 2009
Week 37 - October 4th - Dan Swartz
Has is ever struck you that bog and blog are only one letter difference? One could easily spend a fair amount of time in either (and with only 30 days to live...)
Psalm 36
The first half of this psalm points out the wickedness of sinners, in some depth. I find it useful to remember I was there, and am still being transformed by God's saving power. The psalmist notes that these sinners don't even seek to turn from their ways. It really takes God's intervention in our lives to turn to him. Otherwise, we never would've bothered.
The second half is a praise song. Many of the verses have been used in contemporary choruses and popular Christian bands (so that's where Third Day got some of their inspiration).
Ecclesiastes 5
How do we reconcile verse 3 (don't be hasty in bringing matters before God) with the New Testament admonition to bring all our concerns/prayers/praises to God?
The futility of wealth section is especially appropriate for our culture, country, and city. With the current sermon series on 30 days to live, our small group recently had a good discussion about the struggle between saving verses hoarding (v. 13; being a wise steward verses greed), and the often fine line between the two that's difficult to distinguish. Much prayer and the council of wise and trusted friends are needed.
Acts 15
Fascinating to me is that the apostles felt circumcision was too great a burden for the new Gentile believers, but abstaining from food sacrificed to idols, consuming blood/meat from strangled animals, and abstaining from sexual immorality were considered not too burdensome. I suspect some of these requirements were for health reasons (for instance, circumcision had been thought to reduce sexually transmitted infections, however, recent studies indicate no benefit, rather abstaining from sexual immorality reduces sexually transmiited infections). Even today, many churches and Christians put additional burdens on those trying to come to faith. We sometimes speak Christian-ese (mainly when fellowshipping :-). Some denominations require baptism in a specific manner, etc. I'm glad Crosswinds tries to strip as many of these artificial church culture barriers away as possible.
I found it refreshing to see that believers can have "vehement" disagreements. Interesting that no wrongdoing/heart-attitude-adjustment-needed was attributed to either of the disagreeing parties.
Psalm 36
The first half of this psalm points out the wickedness of sinners, in some depth. I find it useful to remember I was there, and am still being transformed by God's saving power. The psalmist notes that these sinners don't even seek to turn from their ways. It really takes God's intervention in our lives to turn to him. Otherwise, we never would've bothered.
The second half is a praise song. Many of the verses have been used in contemporary choruses and popular Christian bands (so that's where Third Day got some of their inspiration).
Ecclesiastes 5
How do we reconcile verse 3 (don't be hasty in bringing matters before God) with the New Testament admonition to bring all our concerns/prayers/praises to God?
The futility of wealth section is especially appropriate for our culture, country, and city. With the current sermon series on 30 days to live, our small group recently had a good discussion about the struggle between saving verses hoarding (v. 13; being a wise steward verses greed), and the often fine line between the two that's difficult to distinguish. Much prayer and the council of wise and trusted friends are needed.
Acts 15
Fascinating to me is that the apostles felt circumcision was too great a burden for the new Gentile believers, but abstaining from food sacrificed to idols, consuming blood/meat from strangled animals, and abstaining from sexual immorality were considered not too burdensome. I suspect some of these requirements were for health reasons (for instance, circumcision had been thought to reduce sexually transmitted infections, however, recent studies indicate no benefit, rather abstaining from sexual immorality reduces sexually transmiited infections). Even today, many churches and Christians put additional burdens on those trying to come to faith. We sometimes speak Christian-ese (mainly when fellowshipping :-). Some denominations require baptism in a specific manner, etc. I'm glad Crosswinds tries to strip as many of these artificial church culture barriers away as possible.
I found it refreshing to see that believers can have "vehement" disagreements. Interesting that no wrongdoing/heart-attitude-adjustment-needed was attributed to either of the disagreeing parties.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Week 36- September 27- Taylor Hays
Exodus 21
Beginning with this chapter and several to follow is the legal code that the nation Israel was to live by. This code is how the nation put into practice many of the principles found in the Ten Commandments. It is dry reading for sure and many of the ideas in these chapters are completely foreign to our ears. Things like how to manage your slaves and what to do if your ox is gored or if your ox gores someone else! Here is what the code is all about… bright lines that the people were not to cross. And if the lines were crossed, justice, without mercy, was dealt. Here is a passage (starting in verse 23) that summarizes the main principle in the legal code: “…the punishment must match the injury: a life for a life,24 an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a hand for a hand, a foot for a foot,25 a burn for a burn, a wound for a wound, a bruise for a bruise.”
I am grateful I live under God’s code of grace and am free from following the legal code we find in Exodus. As Paul said in Romans chapter 8:
“1 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.2 And because you belong to him, the power* of the life-giving Spirit has freed you* from the power of sin that leads to death.3 The law of Moses was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful nature.* So God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin's control over us by giving his Son as a sacrifice for our sins.”
Exodus 22
Here we find more legal rules for the nation Israel. But this chapter ends not with more rules but larger principles that give us a glimpse of God’s passion in the midst of all the rules. He reminds them to care for those in society that are the under-class… the poor, the widows, the orphans. These are people that cannot defend themselves and are often forgotten by society. Here is what God says is their (and our) responsibility:
“21 You must not mistreat or oppress foreigners in any way. Remember, you yourselves were once foreigners in the land of Egypt.
22 "You must not exploit a widow or an orphan.23 If you exploit them in any way and they cry out to me, then I will certainly hear their cry.24 My anger will blaze against you, and I will kill you with the sword. Then your wives will be widows and your children fatherless.”
The New Testament echoes the same ideas in James chapter 1:27:
27 Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.
Psalm 36
In this Psalm David has a flash of insight about “the wicked.” They have no sense of God and have become completely separated from Him. They feel not one ounce of conviction or guilt about their sin. In the New Testament book of Romans (chapter 1) it is described this way:
“28 Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done.29 Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness…”
But the psalmist quickly turns his attention to God’s character and he finds relief from his concern over the wicked. God’s love and care for us never ends. He meets our deepest needs.
In our world, just like David’s, it seems like “the wicked” are on top. But we serve God who is “…the fountain of life, the light by which we see.”
Ecclesiastes 5
Although much of Solomon’s writing in Ecclesiastes is depressing, the 2 main themes of this chapter are good for us to hear. I would paraphrase the first idea as “get serious about your relationship with God.” The verses are about keeping promises made to God, but the idea is to treat our relationship with God with “fear.” I fall into the same habits as many of you… neglecting prayer and Bible reading and neglecting my time for simply being quiet with God. My mind wanders to all kinds of irrelevant stuff when I should be with God. These verses made me realize that I need to get serious about my relationship with Him.
The second theme is simple “10 Those who love money will never have enough.” It is the one appetite that will never be filled. You have to guard against this because, as we seek more money, the pursuit of wealth robs us of our life! And ultimately Solomon notes we are left empty handed. We have all said “you can’t take it with you.” Well Solomon said it first… “15 We all come to the end of our lives as naked and empty-handed as on the day we were born. We can't take our riches with us.” I have to remind myself regularly, invest in things that last!
Acts 15
This chapter of Acts may seem like a bit of a let down compared with the great adventures Paul and his companions had on their mission trips, also described in Acts. But this chapter describes a pivotal moment in the history of Christianity. Up to this point nearly all of the believers were converted Jews, so all believers were also circumcised and still followed Jewish tradition and law. But as Paul spread the gospel to non-Jews a great controversy arose. Many of the church leaders thought that non-Jews would need to convert to Judaism—become circumcised and follow Jewish law—in order to become believers in Jesus. The decision of the church leaders was not to require non-Jews to follow the law.
The principle that those leaders affirmed is central to all we believe. We are not saved by any work that we do… not by following rules or rituals. We are saved by accepting Jesus free gift of grace. In Philippians 3 Paul put it this way…
3 For we who worship by the Spirit of God* are the ones who are truly circumcised. We rely on what Christ Jesus has done for us. We put no confidence in human effort…”
Beginning with this chapter and several to follow is the legal code that the nation Israel was to live by. This code is how the nation put into practice many of the principles found in the Ten Commandments. It is dry reading for sure and many of the ideas in these chapters are completely foreign to our ears. Things like how to manage your slaves and what to do if your ox is gored or if your ox gores someone else! Here is what the code is all about… bright lines that the people were not to cross. And if the lines were crossed, justice, without mercy, was dealt. Here is a passage (starting in verse 23) that summarizes the main principle in the legal code: “…the punishment must match the injury: a life for a life,24 an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a hand for a hand, a foot for a foot,25 a burn for a burn, a wound for a wound, a bruise for a bruise.”
I am grateful I live under God’s code of grace and am free from following the legal code we find in Exodus. As Paul said in Romans chapter 8:
“1 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.2 And because you belong to him, the power* of the life-giving Spirit has freed you* from the power of sin that leads to death.3 The law of Moses was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful nature.* So God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin's control over us by giving his Son as a sacrifice for our sins.”
Exodus 22
Here we find more legal rules for the nation Israel. But this chapter ends not with more rules but larger principles that give us a glimpse of God’s passion in the midst of all the rules. He reminds them to care for those in society that are the under-class… the poor, the widows, the orphans. These are people that cannot defend themselves and are often forgotten by society. Here is what God says is their (and our) responsibility:
“21 You must not mistreat or oppress foreigners in any way. Remember, you yourselves were once foreigners in the land of Egypt.
22 "You must not exploit a widow or an orphan.23 If you exploit them in any way and they cry out to me, then I will certainly hear their cry.24 My anger will blaze against you, and I will kill you with the sword. Then your wives will be widows and your children fatherless.”
The New Testament echoes the same ideas in James chapter 1:27:
27 Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.
Psalm 36
In this Psalm David has a flash of insight about “the wicked.” They have no sense of God and have become completely separated from Him. They feel not one ounce of conviction or guilt about their sin. In the New Testament book of Romans (chapter 1) it is described this way:
“28 Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done.29 Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness…”
But the psalmist quickly turns his attention to God’s character and he finds relief from his concern over the wicked. God’s love and care for us never ends. He meets our deepest needs.
In our world, just like David’s, it seems like “the wicked” are on top. But we serve God who is “…the fountain of life, the light by which we see.”
Ecclesiastes 5
Although much of Solomon’s writing in Ecclesiastes is depressing, the 2 main themes of this chapter are good for us to hear. I would paraphrase the first idea as “get serious about your relationship with God.” The verses are about keeping promises made to God, but the idea is to treat our relationship with God with “fear.” I fall into the same habits as many of you… neglecting prayer and Bible reading and neglecting my time for simply being quiet with God. My mind wanders to all kinds of irrelevant stuff when I should be with God. These verses made me realize that I need to get serious about my relationship with Him.
The second theme is simple “10 Those who love money will never have enough.” It is the one appetite that will never be filled. You have to guard against this because, as we seek more money, the pursuit of wealth robs us of our life! And ultimately Solomon notes we are left empty handed. We have all said “you can’t take it with you.” Well Solomon said it first… “15 We all come to the end of our lives as naked and empty-handed as on the day we were born. We can't take our riches with us.” I have to remind myself regularly, invest in things that last!
Acts 15
This chapter of Acts may seem like a bit of a let down compared with the great adventures Paul and his companions had on their mission trips, also described in Acts. But this chapter describes a pivotal moment in the history of Christianity. Up to this point nearly all of the believers were converted Jews, so all believers were also circumcised and still followed Jewish tradition and law. But as Paul spread the gospel to non-Jews a great controversy arose. Many of the church leaders thought that non-Jews would need to convert to Judaism—become circumcised and follow Jewish law—in order to become believers in Jesus. The decision of the church leaders was not to require non-Jews to follow the law.
The principle that those leaders affirmed is central to all we believe. We are not saved by any work that we do… not by following rules or rituals. We are saved by accepting Jesus free gift of grace. In Philippians 3 Paul put it this way…
3 For we who worship by the Spirit of God* are the ones who are truly circumcised. We rely on what Christ Jesus has done for us. We put no confidence in human effort…”
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Week 35 - September 20 - Doug Weincouff
Exodus 19
What does it mean for something to be holy? That is the over arching theme for chapter 19. God Commits himself to Israel and chooses them to be his “treasured possession”. He brings them to Mount Sinai, God’s mountain. It is here that God shows the people his majesty and power. The simple sentence in verse 16 “Everyone in the camp trembled” caught my eye. I realize that there is an element of fear but I think there must have been a sense of awe and reverence for God.
I think of myself and how often I take the power, majesty and holiness of God for granted. I tend to focus on his love and mercy which are wonderful and forget that we worship a holy God. God had to be very specific that no one and no animal could touch the mountain while God was present. My challenge is to appreciate and embrace God’s love, mercy, forgiveness while I respect God’s Majesty, power and holiness.
Exodus 20
God gave such straight forward instructions to the Israelites. Ten commandments to keep. Four that focused on our worship of God and six that focused on our relationship with others. Ten commandments that reveal our bent toward disobeying God and doing life our own way.
The section of this chapter that I found interesting was God’s instructions to Israel on how to build an altar. It should be made out of earth and stone. It was meant to be a rough hand made altar. I wonder why? Why did God not want the people to use tools and make the altar more artistic? I honestly don’t know the answer but I wonder if it was meant to be a very personal intimate experience of worship. I don’t think God wants us to focus on the trappings of worship but upon him. Keeping it simple makes it easier to focus on the important things.
Psalm 35
Psalm 35 appears to be written by David during a very dark and difficult time in his life. It may be referring to King Saul trying to kill him and chasing him all over the countryside. It could also be when his son Absalom tried a coup to take over the kingdom. David had to flee for his life so that his son would not kill him. Either way David was desperate for God to come to his defense. This psalm in some ways makes me uncomfortable. Asking for God to bring ruin upon his enemies doesn’t seem right. What it does show me is David’s transparency. He talked to God in a very intimate, vulnerable and authentic way. There was no playing “church”. My prayer is that I would be as authentic and transparent in my relationship with God.
Ecclesiastes 4
Reading Ecclesiastes is not a pick me up. In chapter 4 the teacher points out that oppression is everywhere. Men work and toil out of envy or without purpose. The section of this text I appreciated the most was verses 9-12. Life was intended to be experienced in community. We need to have people in our lives. For men this is a challenge. As I have talked to guys I have found that very few of us have many deep friendships. We have lots of acquaintances but few deep friendships. So here is my challenge to all of us; can you name 3 or 4 people that you would turn to when life got tough or you needed advice or you wanted to celebrate a significant event in your life? If you don’t I would encourage you to start looking for those types of friends.
Acts 14
Acts 14 is the story of success and suffering. Paul and Barnabas are totally committed to sharing about Jesus. At each town them have some who believe and then they have some that are so opposed to their message that they want to kill them. Jesus can be offensive. Truth can upset people. It is our challenge to live like Paul and Barnabas speaking bolding about our relationship with God and trusting Him. I don’t think I will ever be stoned for my faith, but the truth is I am more afraid of being rejected by people or mocked by them. It is my prayer that I would boldly look for opportunities to share about my faith.
What does it mean for something to be holy? That is the over arching theme for chapter 19. God Commits himself to Israel and chooses them to be his “treasured possession”. He brings them to Mount Sinai, God’s mountain. It is here that God shows the people his majesty and power. The simple sentence in verse 16 “Everyone in the camp trembled” caught my eye. I realize that there is an element of fear but I think there must have been a sense of awe and reverence for God.
I think of myself and how often I take the power, majesty and holiness of God for granted. I tend to focus on his love and mercy which are wonderful and forget that we worship a holy God. God had to be very specific that no one and no animal could touch the mountain while God was present. My challenge is to appreciate and embrace God’s love, mercy, forgiveness while I respect God’s Majesty, power and holiness.
Exodus 20
God gave such straight forward instructions to the Israelites. Ten commandments to keep. Four that focused on our worship of God and six that focused on our relationship with others. Ten commandments that reveal our bent toward disobeying God and doing life our own way.
The section of this chapter that I found interesting was God’s instructions to Israel on how to build an altar. It should be made out of earth and stone. It was meant to be a rough hand made altar. I wonder why? Why did God not want the people to use tools and make the altar more artistic? I honestly don’t know the answer but I wonder if it was meant to be a very personal intimate experience of worship. I don’t think God wants us to focus on the trappings of worship but upon him. Keeping it simple makes it easier to focus on the important things.
Psalm 35
Psalm 35 appears to be written by David during a very dark and difficult time in his life. It may be referring to King Saul trying to kill him and chasing him all over the countryside. It could also be when his son Absalom tried a coup to take over the kingdom. David had to flee for his life so that his son would not kill him. Either way David was desperate for God to come to his defense. This psalm in some ways makes me uncomfortable. Asking for God to bring ruin upon his enemies doesn’t seem right. What it does show me is David’s transparency. He talked to God in a very intimate, vulnerable and authentic way. There was no playing “church”. My prayer is that I would be as authentic and transparent in my relationship with God.
Ecclesiastes 4
Reading Ecclesiastes is not a pick me up. In chapter 4 the teacher points out that oppression is everywhere. Men work and toil out of envy or without purpose. The section of this text I appreciated the most was verses 9-12. Life was intended to be experienced in community. We need to have people in our lives. For men this is a challenge. As I have talked to guys I have found that very few of us have many deep friendships. We have lots of acquaintances but few deep friendships. So here is my challenge to all of us; can you name 3 or 4 people that you would turn to when life got tough or you needed advice or you wanted to celebrate a significant event in your life? If you don’t I would encourage you to start looking for those types of friends.
Acts 14
Acts 14 is the story of success and suffering. Paul and Barnabas are totally committed to sharing about Jesus. At each town them have some who believe and then they have some that are so opposed to their message that they want to kill them. Jesus can be offensive. Truth can upset people. It is our challenge to live like Paul and Barnabas speaking bolding about our relationship with God and trusting Him. I don’t think I will ever be stoned for my faith, but the truth is I am more afraid of being rejected by people or mocked by them. It is my prayer that I would boldly look for opportunities to share about my faith.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Week 34 - September 11 - Merv Miller
Exodus 17
Where is your testing place, the place where you wonder if this God of yours is going to pull through or has he led you to a place where there is no hope?
Or... maybe, just maybe, you have been far from God and not even looking to Him for guidance and your life is a mess and now you look to God for guidance.
Exodus 18
Moses takes a leadership course from his father-in-law and learns the art of delegation. Note that Jethro counsels Moses to choose men who won't take a bribe. I guess human nature hasn't changed all that much in the last 4000 years or so.
Psalm 34
This psalm speaks to the benefits of following God. Taste and see that the LORD is good. Oh, the joys of those who trust in him! It's a beautiful Psalm that brings hope for redemption and rescue.
Ecclesiastes 3
11 God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end. One of my favorite verses... ever.
Acts 13
Here Paul gives a sermon to Jewish believers. It's interesting that he gives an overview of Jewish history and prophecy to offer evidence supporting Jesus.
Where is your testing place, the place where you wonder if this God of yours is going to pull through or has he led you to a place where there is no hope?
Or... maybe, just maybe, you have been far from God and not even looking to Him for guidance and your life is a mess and now you look to God for guidance.
Exodus 18
Moses takes a leadership course from his father-in-law and learns the art of delegation. Note that Jethro counsels Moses to choose men who won't take a bribe. I guess human nature hasn't changed all that much in the last 4000 years or so.
Psalm 34
This psalm speaks to the benefits of following God. Taste and see that the LORD is good. Oh, the joys of those who trust in him! It's a beautiful Psalm that brings hope for redemption and rescue.
Ecclesiastes 3
11 God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end. One of my favorite verses... ever.
Acts 13
Here Paul gives a sermon to Jewish believers. It's interesting that he gives an overview of Jewish history and prophecy to offer evidence supporting Jesus.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Week 33 - September 4 - Robynn Watts
Exodus 15 and 16
As I start reading chapter 15, I'm trying to place myself in this Israelite community. What I had just seen, what I had just experienced. God showed Himself to be my rescuer, my deliverer, my safety, my power, my strength.... and now.... I'm free! Moses and Miriam lead the Israelites in a huge party to celebrate God's deliverance. I know that Jewish celebrations are always huge and happy... so I'm guessing this is no different. I'm sure all of their hearts were bursting with thankfulness and joy, having seen God work in the way He did with them. How could they ever forget that?
Well, like us, it sure didn't take long! Within the same chapter the people already start wondering how God is going to provide for them. They are thirsty... for three days they don't have any water. The people start questioning...
And then, right away in chapter 16 (I'm guessing the Israelites thought it best at least to wait a chapter before they REALLY started complaining! :-) we have full-blown grumbling. Everyone started complaining and of all things, wanted to go back to their chains in Egypt! God is suddenly not the same God He was days ago when He drown an entire army! Now, according to the Israelites, He is not able to provide them with their basic needs. And the story just gets worse... even with provision, some Israelites still can't seem to obey God in how they are to gather their food.
And thousands of years later, am I any different? God will show Himself mighty and powerful in my life and moments later I can easily complain about something else. I find it interesting that God does not provide for the Israelites to merely satisfy their physical hunger. In chapter 16 verse 12, God speaks to Moses saying, "I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, 'At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. (here it is...) then you will know that I am the LORD your God.'" God didn't say... then you won't be hungry. Or, then I can stop listening to your constant complaining.... the reason He provided for His people is so that they would know that He is their God. And if God's people know that He is God... then others around them will also see that He is God.
Psalm 33
Sometimes I need some encouragement after I hear of something else gone awry in this crazy world of ours. I have to remember to bring out Psalm 33! We are reminded that God is the Great Creator, He is control of all... nothing happens that escapes His watchful eye. I love verse 4 and think it sums up the psalm quite nicely... "For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does." Great memory verse for those so inclined!
Ecclesiastes 2
The word "ecclesiastes" means "the teacher" or "the preacher". Solomon certainly qualifies as this! Even though he was one of the wisest men, he still had to learn through the "school of hard knocks". In this chapter Solomon contemplates all the things he did in his human strength here on Earth. All these, he says... are worthless done without God. He knew a lot, had a lot, achieved a lot... yet, his life was still empty, because all this he must leave on earth. Soloman rests in the fact that without God.. all our work is meaningless. True for Solomon... true for us too. Verse 26... "To the man who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God." Which one do you want to be? I find that one pretty easy to answer... harder to obey!
Acts 12
Only God... that's about all I can say! Only God could orchestrate Peter's escape the way He did. Four squads of four soldiers each, two soldiers, one on each side of him, chains around his wrists and sentries standing guard at the entrance. Chains falling to the ground...Peter walking straight out of prison... with no one seeing him. Only God!! There is no way Peter could mistake Who set him free... and how many lost children did God bring to Himself through this miracle?
I recently read a book by a Chinese Brother. He experienced an escape from prison very similar to Peter's. Not only was he in prison (this being the last of several imprisonments), but the interrogators in the prison had smashed his legs so badly he could not walk. He had to be carried everywhere. At the moment of his escape... he up and walked on his legs, somewhere along the walk out God healed his legs completely (he does not remember the moment this happened) and he walked straight out of that prison past many many guards all whom were "blinded" and did not see him. Out the front door of the prison he went and into a waiting taxi. Amazing... only God, only God!
If God can do these things... don't you think He can do the "impossible" in your life too?
As I start reading chapter 15, I'm trying to place myself in this Israelite community. What I had just seen, what I had just experienced. God showed Himself to be my rescuer, my deliverer, my safety, my power, my strength.... and now.... I'm free! Moses and Miriam lead the Israelites in a huge party to celebrate God's deliverance. I know that Jewish celebrations are always huge and happy... so I'm guessing this is no different. I'm sure all of their hearts were bursting with thankfulness and joy, having seen God work in the way He did with them. How could they ever forget that?
Well, like us, it sure didn't take long! Within the same chapter the people already start wondering how God is going to provide for them. They are thirsty... for three days they don't have any water. The people start questioning...
And then, right away in chapter 16 (I'm guessing the Israelites thought it best at least to wait a chapter before they REALLY started complaining! :-) we have full-blown grumbling. Everyone started complaining and of all things, wanted to go back to their chains in Egypt! God is suddenly not the same God He was days ago when He drown an entire army! Now, according to the Israelites, He is not able to provide them with their basic needs. And the story just gets worse... even with provision, some Israelites still can't seem to obey God in how they are to gather their food.
And thousands of years later, am I any different? God will show Himself mighty and powerful in my life and moments later I can easily complain about something else. I find it interesting that God does not provide for the Israelites to merely satisfy their physical hunger. In chapter 16 verse 12, God speaks to Moses saying, "I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, 'At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. (here it is...) then you will know that I am the LORD your God.'" God didn't say... then you won't be hungry. Or, then I can stop listening to your constant complaining.... the reason He provided for His people is so that they would know that He is their God. And if God's people know that He is God... then others around them will also see that He is God.
Psalm 33
Sometimes I need some encouragement after I hear of something else gone awry in this crazy world of ours. I have to remember to bring out Psalm 33! We are reminded that God is the Great Creator, He is control of all... nothing happens that escapes His watchful eye. I love verse 4 and think it sums up the psalm quite nicely... "For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does." Great memory verse for those so inclined!
Ecclesiastes 2
The word "ecclesiastes" means "the teacher" or "the preacher". Solomon certainly qualifies as this! Even though he was one of the wisest men, he still had to learn through the "school of hard knocks". In this chapter Solomon contemplates all the things he did in his human strength here on Earth. All these, he says... are worthless done without God. He knew a lot, had a lot, achieved a lot... yet, his life was still empty, because all this he must leave on earth. Soloman rests in the fact that without God.. all our work is meaningless. True for Solomon... true for us too. Verse 26... "To the man who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God." Which one do you want to be? I find that one pretty easy to answer... harder to obey!
Acts 12
Only God... that's about all I can say! Only God could orchestrate Peter's escape the way He did. Four squads of four soldiers each, two soldiers, one on each side of him, chains around his wrists and sentries standing guard at the entrance. Chains falling to the ground...Peter walking straight out of prison... with no one seeing him. Only God!! There is no way Peter could mistake Who set him free... and how many lost children did God bring to Himself through this miracle?
I recently read a book by a Chinese Brother. He experienced an escape from prison very similar to Peter's. Not only was he in prison (this being the last of several imprisonments), but the interrogators in the prison had smashed his legs so badly he could not walk. He had to be carried everywhere. At the moment of his escape... he up and walked on his legs, somewhere along the walk out God healed his legs completely (he does not remember the moment this happened) and he walked straight out of that prison past many many guards all whom were "blinded" and did not see him. Out the front door of the prison he went and into a waiting taxi. Amazing... only God, only God!
If God can do these things... don't you think He can do the "impossible" in your life too?
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Week 31 - August 30 - Doug Mathers
Exodus 13
God tells the Israelites to set up a national holiday (holy-day) to celebrate God's saving action and love towards them. They are to eat certain foods and have specific conversations with specific traditions so that the nation will never forget that God provided and saved them. This is the same reason I love Christmas and Easter. They are there to remind us and to help us teach our children about God's love. We have a God worthy of celebrating. It also reminds me of how important it is to guard those days as 'holy' (verses Santa and the elves).
Exodus 14
The parting of the Red Sea. You've seen the movie, but have you read the book? Notice how God set up circumstances for this moment. The terror the people experienced as they saw the Egyptians coming for them with no way out. And how God put an exclamation point on his saving actions as if to say "don't think this is about how clever or strong you were, this is my decision to save you".
Does that sound familiar? Romans 3:23-27:
23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. 24 Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. 25 For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, 26 for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he declares sinners to be right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.
27 Can we boast, then, that we have done anything to be accepted by God? No, because our acquittal is not based on obeying the law. It is based on faith. 28 So we are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law.
Psalm 32
This is a Psalm of David's experience with sin and forgiveness. Read through it 2X. The first note the price tag of David's unconfessed sin. Make a list of how it affected David's life. Then read it again... this time make a list of the benefits of confession. Then reflect: what role does confession have in your life?
Ecclesiastes 1
What does the Psalmist mean "nothing is new"? Do you ever feel that way? "Every thing is meaningless" declares the author (Solomon). Why is everything meaningless to him? Why are the questions he is asking so important? Why are they so rarely asked in this world?
Acts 11
This is a pivotal moment in Christianity and has direct implications to the way we live (our freedom from keeping the laws and Jewish traditions). Read it and give thanks to God for opening the door of salvation to Gentiles (I'm one)and for speaking to Peter through what was for him a very disturbing dream.
God tells the Israelites to set up a national holiday (holy-day) to celebrate God's saving action and love towards them. They are to eat certain foods and have specific conversations with specific traditions so that the nation will never forget that God provided and saved them. This is the same reason I love Christmas and Easter. They are there to remind us and to help us teach our children about God's love. We have a God worthy of celebrating. It also reminds me of how important it is to guard those days as 'holy' (verses Santa and the elves).
Exodus 14
The parting of the Red Sea. You've seen the movie, but have you read the book? Notice how God set up circumstances for this moment. The terror the people experienced as they saw the Egyptians coming for them with no way out. And how God put an exclamation point on his saving actions as if to say "don't think this is about how clever or strong you were, this is my decision to save you".
Does that sound familiar? Romans 3:23-27:
23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. 24 Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. 25 For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, 26 for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he declares sinners to be right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.
27 Can we boast, then, that we have done anything to be accepted by God? No, because our acquittal is not based on obeying the law. It is based on faith. 28 So we are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law.
Psalm 32
This is a Psalm of David's experience with sin and forgiveness. Read through it 2X. The first note the price tag of David's unconfessed sin. Make a list of how it affected David's life. Then read it again... this time make a list of the benefits of confession. Then reflect: what role does confession have in your life?
Ecclesiastes 1
What does the Psalmist mean "nothing is new"? Do you ever feel that way? "Every thing is meaningless" declares the author (Solomon). Why is everything meaningless to him? Why are the questions he is asking so important? Why are they so rarely asked in this world?
Acts 11
This is a pivotal moment in Christianity and has direct implications to the way we live (our freedom from keeping the laws and Jewish traditions). Read it and give thanks to God for opening the door of salvation to Gentiles (I'm one)and for speaking to Peter through what was for him a very disturbing dream.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Week 31 - August 23 - Dan Swartz
Psalm 31
I am, at first, amazed at how David moves between praising God for his goodness in one breath (verse) and then lamenting his life circumstances in the next and begging for God's favor. I say "at first" because when I'm honest, I do this more often than I'd like to admit as well. And as I think about it a bit more it makes some sense. When one has experienced God's blessing and favor in life, and then life circumstances change such that we experience loss, fear, etc., it should be only natural that we cry out to God for rescue. The key is to remember where our blessing comes from in good times, and know that our loving God is in control even during hard times in our life. Then we can "be strong and courageous, all who put your hope in the Lord!"
Exodus 11
This chapter details with God's final plague on the Egyptians - the killing of every firstborn male (even animals). As with some prior chapters, this one reminded me of the importance of keeping my heart soft (as opposed to becoming "hardened" like Pharaoh). I sometimes pray that God would hit me over the head with a spiritual 2x4 (metaphorically speaking, of course), since I can sometimes mis-prioritize life. My prayer is that our nation's heart would not become hardened as well.
Exodus 12
This chapter details God's requirements for the Passover and his deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt. As Pastor Doug Weincoff relayed in a recent sermon message, 430 yrs seems like a long time for an omnipotent God to act, but God's time is not our time. I need to be patient for God's time, especially when his answer to some of my prayers is "wait" or "not now". I found it interesting that "A rabble of non-Israelites went with them. . ." v.38 NLT Apparently, not all of the Egyptians were hard-hearted. The entire Passover ceremony foreshadows Jesus' perfect sacrifice for our sins. The lamb represents Christ. Its blood saved the Israelites from the angel of death (Chapter 11); Christ's blood saves us from eternal death. There are also similarities to the celebration of the Passover and the celebration of communion. Both are done in remembrance of God's great work in our lives: saving the Israelites from the angel of death and delivering them from Egypt (Passover) and delivering mankind from our sins so we can have a restored relation with our Creator (communion). God limited the Passover to Israelites and foreigners who were circumcised (converted); He limits communion to believers (the converted - those who have accepted Christ as Lord and Savior of their lives). Both were meant to be celebrated in community. Both involve baked goods and beverages (similar to many of our remembrance celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, etc.).
Friday, August 14, 2009
Week 30 - August 16 - Taylor Hays
Exodus 9-10
These chapters document the remaining “10 plagues” that God brought upon Egypt, except for the final and most devastating plague of death on all the firstborn. The story is amazing for many reasons. I can’t imagine some of the sights that were witnessed by the Egyptians… hail, boils, locust, dying livestock and darkness so thick “no one moved.” What is more amazing is the repeated conversation between Moses and Pharaoh. With each successive plague Pharaoh seemed more inclined to let the Israelites go but always reneged. The passage says he was “stubborn” and “hardened” and refused to submit to God’s plan. Here is one lesson I took away from this passage… I am at risk of becoming so hardened against God that I can’t be moved by him even in the face of life’s “plagues.” It takes a long time to become that hard in heart, but it begins by refusing to listen and obey God’s best plan for me.
Psalm 30
David was a guy who had been through it all… life’s highest highs and its lowest lows. There were times he felt near to God and times he felt far away. Through all this he always was able to hang onto hope in God. In this psalm he expressed one of my mother-in-law’s favorite verses for hard times… “Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.” Dark times always end so hang on to the sure hope… God’s faithfulness.
Proverbs 30
This chapter is full of warnings about avoiding some of life’s deepest potholes (don’t lie, don’t slander’ don’t dishonor your parents, stay away from adultery) and some unusual observations about life, like this one…
18 There are three things that amaze me— no, four things that I don't understand:19 how an eagle glides through the sky, how a snake slithers on a rock, how a ship navigates the ocean, how a man loves a woman.
I think what he was saying through all this is that God owns truth. He is the source of all truth and when we see things that are true or illustrate truth it is because God made it that way. His bottom line is this…
5 Every word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to him for protection.
Acts 9
Saul’s conversion experience has become proverbial. We call it a “Damascus road experience” when someone experiences a radical conversion in their life. Depending on the context, it doesn’t always refer to a religious conversion. It means someone finally “saw the light” (now you know where that saying came from!).Sometimes our experiences with God can be dramatic, but most of the transformation in my life has come in a much quieter way. Usually when I am going through a hard time, a loss, a tough decision—I experience God’s closeness the most. The important idea is that God wants to radically change us, just like he changed Saul, later named Paul. To get there we must do what Paul later advised the Galatian Christians to do… “5:16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives.” This is the daily “walking” in the Spirit… reading the Bible, praying, serving, having fellowship with believers, sharing our faith with others. We may never have a Damascus road experience but our lives can be changed as radically as the change Paul experienced.
These chapters document the remaining “10 plagues” that God brought upon Egypt, except for the final and most devastating plague of death on all the firstborn. The story is amazing for many reasons. I can’t imagine some of the sights that were witnessed by the Egyptians… hail, boils, locust, dying livestock and darkness so thick “no one moved.” What is more amazing is the repeated conversation between Moses and Pharaoh. With each successive plague Pharaoh seemed more inclined to let the Israelites go but always reneged. The passage says he was “stubborn” and “hardened” and refused to submit to God’s plan. Here is one lesson I took away from this passage… I am at risk of becoming so hardened against God that I can’t be moved by him even in the face of life’s “plagues.” It takes a long time to become that hard in heart, but it begins by refusing to listen and obey God’s best plan for me.
Psalm 30
David was a guy who had been through it all… life’s highest highs and its lowest lows. There were times he felt near to God and times he felt far away. Through all this he always was able to hang onto hope in God. In this psalm he expressed one of my mother-in-law’s favorite verses for hard times… “Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.” Dark times always end so hang on to the sure hope… God’s faithfulness.
Proverbs 30
This chapter is full of warnings about avoiding some of life’s deepest potholes (don’t lie, don’t slander’ don’t dishonor your parents, stay away from adultery) and some unusual observations about life, like this one…
18 There are three things that amaze me— no, four things that I don't understand:19 how an eagle glides through the sky, how a snake slithers on a rock, how a ship navigates the ocean, how a man loves a woman.
I think what he was saying through all this is that God owns truth. He is the source of all truth and when we see things that are true or illustrate truth it is because God made it that way. His bottom line is this…
5 Every word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to him for protection.
Acts 9
Saul’s conversion experience has become proverbial. We call it a “Damascus road experience” when someone experiences a radical conversion in their life. Depending on the context, it doesn’t always refer to a religious conversion. It means someone finally “saw the light” (now you know where that saying came from!).Sometimes our experiences with God can be dramatic, but most of the transformation in my life has come in a much quieter way. Usually when I am going through a hard time, a loss, a tough decision—I experience God’s closeness the most. The important idea is that God wants to radically change us, just like he changed Saul, later named Paul. To get there we must do what Paul later advised the Galatian Christians to do… “5:16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives.” This is the daily “walking” in the Spirit… reading the Bible, praying, serving, having fellowship with believers, sharing our faith with others. We may never have a Damascus road experience but our lives can be changed as radically as the change Paul experienced.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Week 29 - August 9 - Doug Weincouff
Exodus 7
When I read chapter 7 of Exodus I was again reminded that God chooses to work with us. When Moses did not feel confident in his speaking ability, God gave him Aaron to be his spokesperson. He did not change his plans. He continued to use Moses to set the Israelites free. I am thankful for God’s mercy and compassion when we have such little faith in our abilities or His power, he does not become frustrated or angry. God brings us along in our weakness to see His plan and power. When do you find yourself doubting God or your own abilities and worth?
Exodus 8
God is not random. When God chose the plagues there was purpose and meaning in each one. The choice of frogs was intentional because it represented the Goddess Heqt. Heqt was responsible for childbirth. Remember that the previous Pharaoh had put all the baby Israelite boys to death. God having the frogs overwhelming the land of Egypt was a reminder that He was greater than their Gods. Pharaoh could not stop God’s plans. I am encouraged by the story of Exodus because it is a reminder that God’s promises and plans always come to pass. It gives be encouragement when tough events occur or I am surprised by events, I know that God will be faithful.
Psalm 29
How do you most often describe God? Loving, compassionate, merciful, patient How often do you describe God as powerful, holy and majestic? Psalm 29 was written by King David. David had see God’s power majesty and holiness first hand. In our western Christianity we tend to focus and picture God as a gentle warm and fuzzy being. The thought of “fearing” God is a very remote concept. We can become casual in our attitude toward God. It is important to remember that the God of the Old Testament and the God of the New Testament are the same. He never changes. God continues to deserve our worship, and praise. I need to be careful to give God the proper respect and praise that He deserves while appreciating His love, mercy, kindness and patience.
Proverbs 29
Verse 11 caught my attention, “A fool gives full vent to anger, but a wise person quietly holds it back”. When I was growing up I seldom saw my Dad lose his temper. When other fathers would swear or yell he always used a calm steady voice. I know there were times when my Dad was angry but he was always able to keep control. I saw how his conduct often softened and brought volatile situations to good conclusions. This proverb is one worth memorizing!
Acts 8
Acts chapter 8 reinforces the point that God’s plans come to pass. Before Jesus left the disciples he told them to preach and teach in Jerusalem and to all nations. In Acts it appears that the disciples and the early church had become so focused on reaching the Jews that they were not expanding their ministry to “all nations”. They had become comfortable. God did not create the persecution of the early church but he used it to spread out the believers so that they would reach all people. Sometimes I need God to nudge me out of my comfort zone. God has always promised the he would bring us comfort but he never promised being comfortable. Are you experiencing God’s comfort or your own personal comfort? Where is God nudging you?
Friday, July 31, 2009
Week 28 - August 2 - Merv Miller
Exodus 5 and 6
I love Moses’ honesty before God in verse22; (Moses went back to God and said, "My Master, why are you treating this people so badly? And why did you ever send me? –The Message) Things were not only not working out… things were going worse. I’m sure Moses is thinking, “can I trust this God?”
In chapter 6 God promises Moses a “Strong Hand” then Moses tells God about his weaknesses.. is he trying hard to back out? Give God a hint that maybe there’s a better choice? (Been-there-done-that)
Psalm 28
Again an honest cry out to God for Justice followed by rejoicing for an answered prayer. Evidence to David and to all of us that we know and worship a God who listens to the cry of our heart.
Proverbs 28
Wow… too much meat in this chapter to begin to eat it all. I was struck right away by verse 2 as we see what is going on in Iran right now.
Acts 7
Stephen preaches a “killer” sermon. He basically gives a Cliff Notes version of the Old Testament reminding the religious leaders how often the Hebrew people killed their prophets. Man, that ticked them off. But in a very short sentence we see the beginning of a miracle… in Verse 58 Saul is subtly introduced. He has the worst resume one can imagine for one to become the most influential leader of the young Christian Church. But God, I think, loves to not call the qualified but instead qualifies the called.
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