Posts

Posted on

JEALOUSY/ENVY

Biblical Definition of Jealousy:
Proverbs 14:30 A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.

Character Study:
Saul –1 Samuel 9-31; Acts 13:21
Saul’s father was a wealthy, influential man named Kish, from the tribe of Benjamin. Saul was also known to be the most handsome man in Israel – head and shoulders taller than anyone else. His wife was Ahinoam; his sons were Jonathan, Malkishua, Abinadab, Ishbosheth and possibly Ishvi. Daughters – Merab and Michal.
1 Samuel 15:22 But Samuel replied: “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the LORD? To obey is better than a sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. v23 for rebellion is like the sin of divination and arrogance is like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king.”

Saul is known as:
The first king of Israel:
Saul and one of his servants were out in the hill country of Ephraim, looking for his father’s donkeys. When they could not find the donkeys, his servant suggested that they go and see the prophet (in those days also called a seer), Samuel. When they found Samuel, he instructed Saul to stay with him the night and he would then tell Saul what he wanted to know. In 1 Samuel 10:1-16 Samuel anoints Saul at Ramah by pouring olive oil over his head. He then gives Saul special signs that would be fulfilled to show him that he would be the appointed ruler over Israel.
In vv17-26 Samuel gathers the people in Mizpah and publicly presents them as their first king.
Courage and generosity:
In 1 Samuel 11:1-15, the Spirit of God comes powerfully on King Saul when he is told how King Nahash of Ammon had treated the citizens of Jabesh-Gilead, by gouging out their right eye. He mobilized 330,000 men and launched a surprise attack against the Ammonites before dawn. When the men wanted to know from Samuel where those who had rebelled against Saul were, he said that no one would be executed, because that day the LORD had rescued Israel.
Pride and Disobedience:
In 1 Samuel 13:1-14, we read that Saul took credit for a battle his son Jonathan had won against the Philistines. The Philistines in return mustered a mighty army and camped at Micmash east of Beth-aven. The Israelites became fearful and tried to hide in caves, thickets, rocks, holes and cisterns. Meanwhile, Saul stayed at Gilgal and his men trembled with fear.
In 1 Samuel 10:8 Samuel had instructed Saul to go down to Gilgal and wait there for seven days, assuring him that he will come down there to sacrifice burnt offerings and fellowship offerings. Saul became impatient and offered up burnt offerings. When Samuel heard what Saul had done, he reprimanded him in v13
Jealousy and envy:
In 1 Samuel 18 and 19, we read about Saul’s jealousy and envy against David. David did everything Saul assigned him to do successfully, which pleased all the people. After slaying Goliath, the women came out of all the towns of Israel to meet King Saul with singing and dancing “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.” Saul became very angry. 1 Samuel18:9 And from that time on Saul kept a close eye on David. The next day, while David played the harp “an evil spirit from God came forcefully upon Saul.” Saul had a spear in his hand and tried to pin David to the wall. Saul became afraid because he realized that: “the LORD was with David but had left Saul.”

There are 8 accounts in the Bible where Saul tried to kill David:
1 Sam. 18:11 – Saul attempts with a spear.
1 Sam. 18:17 and 21 – Saul plots such that his enemies are to do away with David using his older daughter and then younger as David goes to battle with the Philistines. Being the heir to the throne would make David a prime target.
1 Sam. 19:1 – servants ordered by Saul to kill David.
1 Sam. 19:10 – Saul attempts with a spear
1 Sam. 19:11 – Saul sends messengers to kill David.
1 Sam. 19:15 – Saul sends messengers to bring David back so he can kill David.
1 Sam. 19:20 – Saul sends messengers to kill David.
1 Sam. 19:21 – Saul sends messengers again. (third time)
1 Sam. 19:22 – Saul goes himself in an attempt.
1 Sam. 23:15 – Saul sought David in the wilderness of Ziph and Horesh.
1 Sam. 26:2 – Saul seeks David again in Ziph.
(Answers.com)

What the Bible Teaches about Jealousy/Envy:
Old Testament:
When God gave the Ten Commandments to Moses it says in Exodus 20:4-6 that the Israelites were not allowed to have any form of anything in heaven above or on the earth below. They were not allowed to worship or bow down before them: v5b for I the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, v6 but showing love to a thousand generations, for those who love me and keep my commandments.
In Deuteronomy 32:1-43, which is known as “The Song of Moses”, Moses reminds the people that God is a jealous God. The people had made God jealous. v21a They have roused my jealousy by worshiping things that are not of God; they have provoked my anger with their useless idols. – that is foreign gods and detestable idols.
In Joshua 24:1-27 Joshua gives his final speech. He beseeched the Israelites, asking them to decide whether they would obey the LORD, who had proven that He can be trusted, or obey the local gods from the surrounding nations. These gods were hand-made idols.
As we study the Bible we see that Israel sinned over and over again.
We read in Psalm 103:1-22 and also elsewhere in the Bible about God’s great love for us. We will never be able to fathom God’s love for us.
Proverbs 27:4 Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before a jealous God? 
Proverbs is a book of wise sayings written by King Solomon:  for attaining wisdom and discipline; understanding words of insight; acquitting a disciplined and prudent life, and doing what is right and just and fair.
We can use Proverbs to apply divine wisdom and moral instruction to our daily life.

New Testament:
In Matthew 27:11-19 Jesus appeared before Pilate, for the chief priests and elders had Jesus arrested for speaking “blasphemy” (Matthew 26:63-65) It was the governor, in this case, Pilate’s custom, to release a prisoner chosen by the crowd. Pilate gives the people a choice between Jesus and Barabbas to decide which one should be released.
v18 For he knew it was out of self-interest (envy) that they had handed Jesus over to him.
In Acts 5:17; 13:45;17:5 we see on different occasions the jealousy of the Jewish leaders against the Apostles and Paul.
Romans 11:11-15 In v13 Paul states categorically that he was appointed by God as the apostle to the Gentiles. Why? V11 Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious.
In 1 Corinthians 3:1-3, Paul addresses the believers of the church in Corinth. When he previously visited them he spoke to them as though they were infants in the Christian life. He now writes to them, because they are still not ready to be called spiritually mature Christians.
James tells us in James 3:13-18 that there are two kinds of wisdom!
– Those who are wise and understanding must show it by leading a good life and deeds done in humility
– When there is jealousy and selfish ambition do not boast about it or deny the truth.

Application:
Jealousy is also known as the “green-eyed monster.” Jealousy and envy go “hand in hand.” At times we don’t even realize that we are jealous or envious of someone’s success, such as their home, family, job, or money.
How do we recognize it?
1. You deceive yourself when someone close to you is going i.e. on holiday. You tell them you are “happy” for them, but your thoughts and feelings are the opposite – you feel angry because you have not been on holiday for a long time.
2. Jealousy or envy can be idolatry when we focus on the material things people around us have. Those are the times we need to be on our “guard” because we can turn around and think that God’s provision and care are not sufficient for us. What we need to do is: Repent knowing God knows our thoughts from afar and He will forgive us.
3. We are faced with a choice when jealousy or envy rears its ugly head. We can be discontent or we can be joyful.
4. Count your blessings when jealousy takes control of your mind i.e. a beautiful sunshine day in winter, a family who loves you “warts and all”, and having Jesus in your life as a friend.

Conclusion:
1 Peter 2:1 Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind.

Responding in Prayer:
Read Psalm 143:1-12. We can pray this Psalm when we want to ask God for guidance on how to overcome jealousy.
When jealousy/envy fills our thoughts we need to admit to ourselves that we are jealous and stop justifying our sin!
We can then go to the Lord in prayer and confess our jealousy, specifying exactly what we are jealous about.
We can repent before the Lord and ask Him to help us overcome the hopelessness and depression we feel because we do not have what others have.
Praise the Lord for all the blessings He has given you and thank Him for His unfailing love, putting your trust in Him.

Posted on

COURAGE

Biblical Definition of Courage:
Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD you God will be with you wherever you go.”

Character Study:
Rahab – Joshua 2:1-22 and 6:22, 23; Matthew 1:5; Hebrews 11:31; James 2:25
The first time we meet Rahab is in Joshua 2:1 when the spies entered the house of a prostitute (possibly an innkeeper) and stayed there. In vv12-13 we see that she lived there with her father, mother, brothers, sisters and extended family. She lived in Jericho and therefore grew up in a pagan environment worshipping idols and false gods.
Hebrew 11:31 By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient.
She was married to Salmon and the mother of Boaz. Matthew 1:5

Rahab is known for her:
Courage:
In Joshua 2:2-7 we read that the king of Jericho sent a message to Rahab to bring out the men who had come to her house because they were spies. She acknowledges that the men had come to her, but that at dusk when the city gates closed, they had left and she did not know which way they had gone.  She had taken them up to the roof and hidden them under the stalks of flax she had laid out on the roof. It was not only dangerous for her to hide the spies, but she also had to trust her family not to give her secret away. It took courage as it was a case of life and death if she had been found out.
Faith
In Joshua, 2:8-11 she tells the spies that when the people of Jericho heard how the LORD had dried up the water of the Red Sea and their victory over Sihon and Og, the kings of the Amorites, their hearts melted with fear. She believed that: Joshua 2:11b “the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below.”  Because Rahab chose faith in the face of fear, she showed her faith in God and for this reason, her family was spared.
Love
Joshua 2:12-16 shows her love for her family. Her request to the spies was that they would not only spare her life, but also the lives of her father, mother, brothers, sisters and all who belong to them, from death. After the spies assured her that they will treat her kindly and faithfully when they invade the land, she lets them down by a rope through the window, because her house was part of the city wall.
*Jewish tradition says that Salmon, one of the two spies was her husband and their son was Boaz. They were the great-great-grandparents of David, the most influential king of Israel. Salmon was the father of Boaz, Boaz the father of Obed, Obed the father of Jesse and Jesse the father of David. Ruth 4:20-22. Matthew 1:5 mentions Rahab in the lineage of Jesus Christ.
Prostitute
Noun for prostitute – a woman who engages in sexual intercourse for money; whore; harlot. (Dictionary.com)
Prostitutes were the social and moral outcasts in Israel.
Why would the spies stop at the house of Rahab, a prostitute? The spies could gather information; her house was built into the city wall; we see God’s hand in this because He knew her heart was receptive to Him and so she would be instrumental in the Israelite’s victory over Jericho

What the Bible teaches about courage:
Old Testament:
In Deuteronomy 31:1-8 Moses went out and spoke to the people, assuring them that the LORD will cross over the Jordan River ahead of them. As he will not be going with them Joshua will cross over ahead of them. They need not fear the nations on the other side, because the LORD will deliver them to the Israelites.
In Joshua 1:1-9 after Moses’s death, the LORD commands Joshua with the same instructions that Moses had given him.
In 1 Chronicles 28:9-21, King David gives his son Solomon principles to live by and also specific plans to build the Temple. In v20 David tells Solomon to be “strong and courageous.”
In 2 Chronicles 32:1-8 When Sennacherib king of Assyria came and invaded Judah; Hezekiah did everything he could to deal with the situation:
– He blocked off the water springs outside the city;
– He worked hard to repair all the broken sections of the wall and build towers on it and he built another wall outside that one, reinforcing the supporting terraces of the City of David;
– He appointed military officers over the people, assembling them before him in the square at the city gate;
He encouraged them to trust God.
Isaiah 41:10-13.Reading through the Old Testament, we see how God punished the Israelites. We also read that God is compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, and abounds in love.  God encourages not only the Israelites but also us.

New Testament:
We see in the Gospels of the New Testament how Jesus on several occasions encouraged people:
Matthew 9:2 Some people brought to Jesus a man that was paralyzed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic: v2b “Be encouraged, my child! Your sins are forgiven.” v6b Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!” (NLT)
Mark 6:45-50 Jesus had told His disciples to get in a boat and go to Bethsaida. During the night a strong wind came up and Jesus saw them straining at the oars because the wind was against them. Jesus proceeded to walk towards them. When they saw Him they were terrified.  Jesus spoke to them reassuring them not to be afraid.
Luke 8:43-48 One day as Jesus was surrounded by the crowd a woman, who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, came up behind Jesus, touching the edge of His cloak. When Jesus asked who had touched His cloak the woman came trembling and fell at His feet. She told Jesus that she had been instantly healed
John 16:33 Jesus encouraged His disciples that in the future they will have trouble after His death. v33 “I have told you these things, so you may have peace in me. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
Acts 22:30 – 23:11 In this passage Paul is ordered to appear before the commander of the Roman troops because he wanted to find out the reason why Paul was being accused by the Jews. A dispute between the Pharisees and Sadducees broke out, so the commander was afraid that Paul would be torn to pieces. He ordered the troops to take him away from them and back to the barracks. v11 The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.”
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 In his final instructions to the church in Corinth, Paul urges them to v13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. v14 Do everything in love.

Application:
In a world where we read/hear/see daily the evil that takes place not only in the world but also in our communities; it takes courage to face our fears. One of the things we get from studying our Bible is that God commands us to be courageous. As we saw, in Deuteronomy 31:6 God commands us “to be strong and courageous.” Living courageously is easier said than done. We so easily say we live by faith and not sight, but courage is not the absence of fear; it is acting in spite of fear.
In a world where living an immoral lifestyle has become the order of the day; it is not easy to live a life with traditional and moral Christian values. Jesus tells us in Matthew 16:24-26 that we need to deny ourselves take up our cross daily and follow Him.

Conclusion:
1 John 2:28 And now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.

Responding in Prayer:
Read Psalm 27:1-14  One of the antonyms of courage is fear. We can know that God offers help for today and hope for the future. We learn from David that he sought God’s presence every day. He trusted God at all times. At times it feels as if we are waiting on the Lord in vain and our prayers are not being answered. David had experienced waiting periods in his life – anointed as king when he was 16, but he only became king of Judah at 30. Through it all, he had experienced he could still say that he had confidence in the goodness of the Lord and encourages us with v14 Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD. (New Living Translation – NLT)
Thank the Lord for His faithfulness, because as children of God 1 John 3:1, His compassion never fails; they are new every morning. Ecclesiastes 3:22, 23

Journal – Scripture/Prayers/Thoughts:

Posted on

PROMISE

Biblical definition of promise:
Ephesians 6:2 “Honour your father and mother” – which is the first commandment with a promise – v3 “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”

Character Study:
Sarah – Genesis 11-25; Isaiah 51:2; Romans 4:19; 9:9; Hebrews 11:11; 1 Peter 3:6
She was married to Abraham who was her half-brother. She was the daughter of Terah (also Abraham’s father) but with a different mother. (Genesis 20:12) She was barren until the age of ninety when Isaac was born.
(Genesis 21:1-3)
Hebrews 11:11 And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she considered Him faithful who had made the promise.  She was beautiful. (Genesis 12:11) She became the mother of a nation and an ancestor of Jesus. She died at the age of 127 in Kiriath–Arba. (Genesis 23:1, 2)

Sarah is known for:
Her submission towards Abraham
We read in 1 Peter 3:6 that Sarah obeyed her husband, Abraham and called him her master.
God’s Protection
In Genesis 12:11-13 and 20:12 we see that Abraham acted out of fear and asked Sarah to say that she was his sister. In both incidences, God protected Abraham and his family. In Genesis 12:17 God sent terrible plagues upon Pharaoh and his household “because of Sarai” Abram’s wife. In Genesis 20:16 Abimelech gave Abraham 1,000 pieces of silver to compensate Sarah for any wrong he may have done to her.
God’s promise of a son
Genesis 17:15-19 God changes her name from Sarai to Sarah. God’s promise to Abraham is that He will bless Sarah and she will become the mother of many nations. v16 And I will bless her and give you a son from her! I will bless her richly, and she will become the mother of many nations. Even kings of nations will be among her descendants.
Impatience and jealousy
She became impatient when it came to believe that God’s promises will be fulfilled.
Genesis 16:1-6 She gave her Egyptian servant Hagar as a wife to Abraham. When Hagar became pregnant she treated Sarai with contempt. Sarai duly blamed Abraham who gave her permission to send Hagar away.
Genesis 21:8-10 Abraham had prepared a feast to celebrate Isaac being weaned. Sarah saw Ishmael making fun of her son and demanded that Hagar and Ishmael be sent away.
As a woman of faith
Hebrews 11:11 attributes Sarah with faith because she believed that God would keep His promise, even though she was barren and old.

What the Bible teaches about promise:
Old Testament:
In Numbers 23-24, we read that Balak took Balaam to several places to try and entice him to curse the Israelites. In the second oracle, Balak took Balaam to the field of Zophim on the top of Pisgah. The LORD met with Balaam and told him to give the message that God does not give a promise and then not fulfil it! 
We have the assurance that when God gives us a promise, He will fulfil it because God cannot lie!
In Deuteronomy 23:21one of the commands from the LORD was that when the people made a vow to God, they were to execute it promptly; otherwise, they would be guilty of sin.
In Joshua 23 we read the instructions Joshua gave the people before he died. He reminded them that not one of all the promises God had given them had failed.
In 1 Kings 8:54-66, we read that King Solomon after his prayers and supplications to the LORD, rose from before the altar of the LORD where he had been kneeling with his hands spread out toward the heaven to dedicate the Temple. He praised the LORD for the rest given to His people and the promises he had given His people Israel through Moses.
In Ecclesiastes 5:1-7 the heading in the New Living Translation NLT) says: “Approaching God with Care.” Solomon warns his readers about making foolish promises to God
Isaiah 9:1-7 In this passage the promise of the birth of the Messiah is foretold.

New Testament:
In Luke 24:48 and Acts 1:4, Jesus told the disciples that He would send them what His Father had promised.
Acts 1:5 “For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”
In Galatians 3:1-14 Paul reprimands the Galatians because they had begun their lives in the power of the Spirit, but now they were insisting on keeping the Jewish laws!  He reminds them that God had promised Abraham that: “All nations will be blessed through you.” (Genesis 12:3; 18:18; 22:18) How did God do this? Galatians 3:14 He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.
Hebrews 10:19-25 We are called to persevere because as Christians we now have the confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus. The writer of Hebrews says that we can draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith because God who promised this is faithful.
In James 1:2-18 (This James was the leader of the church in Jerusalem and the half-brother of Jesus, not James the apostle.)  James does not say “If” troubles or temptations come our way, but whenever trials come we should consider it pure joy because in this way our faith develops perseverance
In 2 Peter 3:1-18 Peter addresses the “Day of the Lord” He writes that in the last days, there will be scoffers questioning the “coming” that was promised. For us, it may seem to be very slow, but we are reminded: v8b With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. v9 The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

Application:
When we read our Bible, we can find hundreds of promises.
One of the most quoted verses in the Bible is possibly Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD. “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. We can take comfort from this verse, because as it says, not only does God know our future, but there is hope and we are assured that He will go with us. This does not mean that we will never experience pain, suffering or hardship, but we know for certain that God will be with us in our trials.
Jesus gives us this promise to hold onto in John 16:33b In this world you will have trouble. But take heart!  I have overcome the world.
The Promised Land was the huge promise that God had given the Israelites. They forfeited this promise because they hardened their hearts. We need to be mindful to keep a “soft” heart and be willing to be open to hearing God’s voice. There is a warning for us in: Hebrews 3:12 See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.  When we yearn for God’s promises in our lives, we need to make sure our hearts are submissive to God.

Conclusion:
Philippians 4:19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

Responding in Prayer:
Read Matthew 7:7-11 In His lessons from the Sermon on the Mount (Beatitudes), Jesus taught the people in one of the lessons about asking, seeking and knocking. Jesus tells us to persist in prayer. When we ask according to God’s will – asking for more knowledge, patience, wisdom, love and understanding – He will answer us.
We however need to realise that God does not answer every prayer.
There are conditions for God to answer our prayers:
First, a person must be a child of God – that is being saved by asking forgiveness and receiving Jesus as our Saviour. John 9:31 Then we need to worship Him and do His will.
Hebrews 11:6 We cannot come to God without believing or having faith in God.
Isaiah 59:2 God will not answer our prayers if there is unconfessed sin in our lives.
John 14:13 When we believe that Jesus is the Son of God we must come in the name of Jesus to God the Father.

Journal – Scripture/Prayers/Thoughts:

Posted on

PRIDE

Biblical definition of Pride:
1 John 2:16 For everything in the world – the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life – comes not from the Father but from the world.

Character Study:
Nebuchadnezzar – 2 Kings 24 – 25;  2 Chronicles 36:1-23; Jeremiah 21:1 – 52:34; Daniel 1 – 4
He was the son and successor of Nabopolassar, who delivered Babylon from its dependence on Assyria and laid Nineveh in ruins. Nebuchadnezzar married Amytis, the daughter of the king of the Medes. His son was Evil-Merodach and his grandson was Belshazzar. Daniel 4:37 Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything He does is right and all His ways are just. And those who walk in pride He is able to humble.

Nebuchadnezzar is known as:
The greatest king of Babylon
In Daniel 1:1-4 we see that in his first year as king, he surrounded Jerusalem, making Judah his vassal state. During his raid of Jerusalem, he took some of the sacred objects from the Temple of God and placed them in the treasure house of his god. He also took some of the wisest men and most beautiful women as captives, instructing Ashpenaz, his chief of staff to make sure the men – of which Daniel was one – were well-versed in every branch of learning, gifted with knowledge and good judgment. He was to train the young men in the language and literature of Babylon.
Nebuchadnezzar’s dream
Daniel 2:1-45 One night the king had a dream that his magicians, enchanters, sorcerers and astrologers could not lay out for him, because he refused to tell them the dream. God had allowed Nebuchadnezzar to have a series of dreams that could be revealed and understood only by a servant of God. Nebuchadnezzar was known for his temper and when his wise men could not lay out his dream, he ordered them to be executed. Daniel went to see the king, requesting more time to tell the king the meaning of the dream. Daniel went back and asked his friends to pray with him so that God would reveal the dream to him. From vv27-45 Daniel tells the king what he had dreamt and the meaning of it.
His pride
In Daniel 3:1-6 we read that Nebuchadnezzar made a gold statue ninety feet (27.43 meters) tall and nine feet (2.74 meters)  wide setting it up on the plain of Dura in the province of Babylon. He gave instructions that at the sound of the musical instruments everyone must bow down and worship the king’s gold statue.
His punishment
In Daniel 4:1-33 Nebuchadnezzar had another dream which Daniel interpreted for him. This time the dream made it clear that he will be driven away from people; he would become insane and will live like a wild animal, eat grass like cattle and be drenched with dew from heaven. This would be for some time.
God gave him 12 months to repent, but unfortunately, there was no repentance in the heart of this proud king. This dream was fulfilled when God humiliated Nebuchadnezzar to show that God, not Nebuchadnezzar was Lord of the nations.
His acknowledgements of God
Daniel 2:47 He acknowledged that God revealed mysteries; 3:28, 29 He praised the God who rescued Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego.4:34-37 After being humiliated he says in v34 At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honoured and glorified Him who lives forever. His dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to generation.

What the Bible teaches about pride:
Old Testament:
In Deuteronomy 5-8 Moses summoned all the Israelites to come and hear all the decrees and laws God had given him – “The Ten Commandments.”  In Chapter 6 they are told to “Love the LORD their God” In Chapter 7 they are told to “Drive out all the nations” In Chapter 8 they must “Not forget the LORD” otherwise:
8:14 then your heart will become proud and you will forget the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
2 Chronicles 32:24-31 This passage tells of King Hezekiah’s pride and success. Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. The LORD answered his prayer and gave him a miraculous sign. 2 Kings 20:8-11
2 Chronicles 32:25 Hezekiah showed pride when a Babylonian envoy visited him and he showed them all the treasures of his kingdom. In v31 we read that God left him to test him and in this way, God would know everything that was in his heart.
Proverbs 29:23 Pride ends in humiliation, while humility brings honour. (NLT) This is such a true proverb because we know that pride is the opposite of humility.
In Ecclesiastes 7:1-29 Solomon addresses the advantages of having wisdom for life. He says that patience is better than pride.
Isaiah 2:6-17 is a passage the LORD gave Isaiah as a warning of judgment and what would eventually happen to Jerusalem. In Revelation 21 we see the fulfilment of this prophecy in the New Jerusalem.
We can be sure that there will come a day of reckoning when the proud and mighty will be punished and only the Lord will be exalted on that Day of Judgment.

New Testament:
Luke 1:46-55.This passage is known as “The Magnificat – Mary’s Song of Praise. In v48b she says: “From now on all generations will call me blessed.” This was not a statement of pride. Instead, she was recognizing that God had given her a great gift. She continues that His mercy extends to those who fear Him.
In Romans 11:11-36 Paul addresses both the Jews and the Gentiles. In v13 he acknowledges that he was appointed as an apostle to the Gentiles. From vv16-24 he is speaking to the Gentiles, warning them not to feel superior to those Jews who have been rejected.
1 Peter 3:8-12 In these verses Peter addresses five characteristics that a believer should display:
– Everyone should agree;
– feeling for each other;
– be loving towards each other;
– pity your fellow believer;
– as we have seen previously the opposite of pride is humility – therefore be humble.
1 John 2:15-17 In this passage John tells us why we should not love the world and what it offers us!  When we love the world, we do not have the love of the Father in us. The world offers a craving for physical pleasure; a longing for everything we see; pride in our achievements and possessions. Those who do what pleases God will have eternal life.

Application:
The late New Testament scholar John Stott said, “Pride is more than the first of the seven deadly sins; it is itself the essence of all sin.”
It is a known fact that we all struggle with pride.
How can we prevent being proud? We can go to the Bible and see what is written: Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
Proud people do not acknowledge their weaknesses, and strangely enough, they usually do not realize that pride is their problem.
How can we recognize pride in our own life?
Being spiritually proud – Jesus constantly corrected the Pharisees for practising religion just to be seen by others. In Luke 18:9-14 Jesus told the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. This passage is a good example with which we can compare ourselves regularly. Are we “Pharisees” or “Tax Collectors?”
Matthew 6 vv1and 5 In the Beatitudes Jesus warns us to be careful not to do our “acts of righteousness’ before men.
Give God all the glory for things he has done, is doing and will still be doing in your life.
Having an attitude of “I don’t care” is a form of pride. There is not a person alive that can say they are not hurt when criticized unnecessarily.
Do not be presumptuous before God – we need to be careful how we approach God, because He is Holy, Holy, Holy,  Lord God Almighty.  It is written in Psalm 2:11 Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling. 
As a believer, there are times when we do not have the confidence to come before God because we feel our sins are too great. We think this is “humility” but in reality, this can also be a kind of pride. We forget that we have been saved by grace and not by ourselves.
There are many different kinds of pride: seek the Lord to help you recognize when you display “pride.”

Conclusion:
Proverbs 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.

Responding in prayer:
Read Psalm 25:1-22 Praying for humility will keep us from pride.
As believers, we need to continually be lifting our souls to God. We know that when our hope is in the Lord, we will not be put to shame. We can ask the Lord to show us His ways, teach us His paths, and guide us in His truth because our hope is in Him all day long.
Pride is so subtle that when we say “That was a job well done!” we should become alarmed.
We should confess our pride to the Lord. When we keep our eyes fixed on the Lord. He will release us from the snare of pride.

Journal – Scripture/Prayers/Thoughts:

Posted on

CRITICISM

Biblical Definition of Criticism:
Romans 14:10 You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat.

Character Study:
Miriam – Exodus 1:22 – 2:4; Exodus15:20-21; Numbers 12:1-16;  Numbers 20:1; Deuteronomy 24:9; 1 Chronicles 6:3; Micah 6:4
She was the eldest daughter of Amram and Jochebed, and her brothers were Aaron and Moses.
In Exodus 1:22 – 2:4 we read that Pharaoh gave an order that every boy child born to the Hebrews was to be thrown into the Nile. Moses’ mother Jochebed made a papyrus basket, coated with tar and pitch. She placed Moses in it and placed him among the reeds along the bank of the Nile. His sister Miriam stood at a distance to see what would happen to him.
Numbers 12:1 Miriam and Aaron began to talk against Moses because of his Cushite wife, for he had married a Cushite. v2 “Has the LORD spoken only through Moses?” they asked. “Hasn’t he also spoken through us?” And the LORD heard this.

Miriam is known as:
Using her initiative
In Exodus 2:5-9 Pharaoh’s daughter discovers the baby amongst the reeds; Miriam asks her whether she could get one of the Hebrew women (her mother) to nurse him until he is a little older.
Prophetess
Exodus 15:20-21 After having been delivered – passing on dry ground through the Red Sea – Miriam led the women in song and dance
Assisted Moses to lead the people out of Egypt
She was also acknowledged as the leader of all the women who fled from Egypt with their families. She influenced the women – they would listen to her ideas and words such as when she led them in song and dance after crossing the Red Sea.
Micah 6:4 I brought you up out of Egypt and redeemed you from the land of slavery. I sent Moses to lead you also Aaron and Miriam.
Her criticism of Moses and the consequence thereof
In Numbers 12:1-16 We read that Miriam and Aaron criticised Moses because,
1. He had married a Cushite wife because Hebrews condemned marriage with any foreigner.
2. His authority over them, since he was the youngest of the three.
At once the LORD called the three of them to go out to the Tent of Meeting. The LORD summoned Miriam and Aaron to step forward and spoke to them Numbers 12:6-9. Because of His anger towards them, He left them. When Aaron turned towards Miriam, he saw that her skin was as white as snow – she had a defiling skin disease. Moses cried out to the LORD to heal her. The LORD replied that she had to be confined outside the camp for seven days.

What the Bible teaches about criticism:
Old Testament:
In Joshua 9:1-27 we read how the Gibeonites resorted to deception to save themselves after hearing what Joshua had done to Jericho and Ai. When Joshua confronted them they replied that they had come from a distant land. When the Israelites examined their provisions they found that the bread was mouldy, the wineskins were split open and their clothes and sandals were worn out. Joshua made a peace treaty with them which guaranteed their safety.  The one thing the leaders did not do was inquire with the LORD about the treaty. After the deception is discovered the Israelites “criticized” the leaders, because of the treaty.
2 Samuel 6:20-23 After the Ark was brought back to the Temple in Jerusalem, we read that David went home to bless his own family. His wife Michal, the daughter of Saul went out to meet him, criticizing him for his behaviour. David retorted that he was dancing before the LORD and he was willing to humiliate himself in his own eyes, even before the servant girls Michal mentioned because they would think of him as being distinguished. Because of her criticism, Michal had no children to the day of her death.
Job 6 In Job’s second speech to Eliphaz in one of his questions he asks: v25 Honest words can be painful, but what do your criticisms amount to? (NLT)
Ezekiel 34:1-6 Ezekiel criticizes the shepherds/leaders of Israel for taking care of themselves rather than taking care of their people. He names some of the sins God are criticizing them for: They drink the milk, wear the wool, butcher the animals and let the people starve. They have not taken care of the weak, tended to the sick, bound up the injured or gone looking for those who have wandered away and are lost. Instead, they have ruled them with harshness and cruelty.

New Testament:
Matthew 11:20-24 Jesus had performed many miracles in the cities of Bethsaida, Korazin and Capernaum. Because of their unbelief, Jesus criticized them. These cities would suffer greater punishment, because of their unbelief. Jesus says that if He had performed miracles in Tyre, Sidon and Sodom, the people there, would have repented of their sins. These people would be better off on the Day of Judgment than those who had witnessed His miracles.
Romans 14:1-23 is a passage about “The danger of Criticism” –The believers in Rome were divided over special diets and special days. Paul was saying those who worship the Lord on a special day do it to honour Him; those who eat any kind of food do so to honour the Lord since they give thanks to God before eating; those who refuse to eat certain foods also want to please the Lord and give thanks to God.
Paul continues by saying that all of us will one day have to give an account to God.
Titus 2:1-8 is a passage on how to: “Promote Right Teaching” in the church.
Paul advises Titus to be an example by doing what is good and reflecting the integrity and seriousness of his teaching. Titus’ teaching must be above reproach so that no one can criticize him.
James 4:1-12 James advises the people to submit themselves to God. In verses 11-13, he gives examples of what not to do i.e. to not criticize a “brother or sister.” Obedience to the law is to love God with all your heart, soul and mind and to love your neighbour as yourself. (Matthew 22:37-40) We have no right to criticize someone else.

Application:
We have all been criticized at one time or another in our lives. It is how we respond to criticism that is not so easy.
Our normal reaction to criticism is to become defensive or antagonistic or even have an attitude of “I don’t care when people criticize me.”
Defensive – we deny, explain or make excuses to show that the criticism is off base and is not valid.
Antagonistic – we counterattack with accusations regarding their motives, hoping to punish them for daring to attack us in the first place. The Bible says in Proverbs 15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
James 1:19-20 gives us three things to do when criticized:
a) Be quick to listen – this is not easy, because we can feel our emotions rising up and at the same time we are thinking of ways to counterattack. There might be truth in what the other person is saying.
b) Be slow to speak – you must allow the other person to finish his/her “criticism.” If you speak too quickly you might lash out in anger and say unnecessary things.
c) Be slow to become angry – v20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.
Memorize Scripture verses so that at those times when you are being criticized you can say: “It is written”
Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
Pray about criticism. Ask the Lord for wisdom. There are times we don’t see what someone else sees.
When we are doing the Lord’s work there will be times that we are criticized – be careful that it does not become a case of “Woe is me”

Conclusion:
1 Peter 2:23 When they hurled their insults at Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats. Instead, He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.

Responding in Prayer:
Read Psalm 43:1-5 This Psalm can be of great comfort in a time of discouragement, especially when we are being criticized. When this happens our only hope is in God.
Just as the Psalm writer asked God that His light and truth guide him to His holy mountain that is the Temple, where he would meet God, we can ask the same. We read in 1 John 1:5 that God is light and that there is no darkness in Him. 1 John 2:27 says that God’s truth is the Holy Spirit living within us. All we have to do is be attentive and He will provide us with the right path to follow. There is nothing more wonderful than when we feel discouraged to go to God who is our joy and delight, and praise Him. At times like this, start counting your blessings and you will be amazed at what God has done.

(All Scriptures are from the New International Version (NIV) unless otherwise stipulated)

Journal – Scripture/Prayers/Thoughts:

Posted on

JUDGING

Biblical Definition of Judging:
Matthew 7:1 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. v2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.

Character Study:
Deborah – Judges 4:4-5:31
In the Old Testament Book of Judges, we find that Deborah was a heroine and prophetess who led the Israelites when they were threatened by the Canaanites. Judges 4:4 Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time.
She was married to Lappidoth and lived in the hill country of Ephraim.
Deborah is known as:
The fourth and only female judge of Israel. 
Deborah had great influence in Israel, which is evident as the Israelites came to her for counsel and judgment.
Prophetess:
As seen in Judges 4:4 she was a prophetess. The Israelites had been oppressed for twenty years, because of the evil they had done in the eyes of the Lord.  She was leading the nation at that time and her special abilities were as a mediator, advisor, and counsellor.
Female warrior:
In Judges 4:6-10 we see Deborah summon Barak, telling him that “The LORD, the God of Israel” has commanded that he, Barak and 10,000 men must lead the way to Mount Tabor. His request that Deborah must go with him, is granted. She warns him that because of how he handles the situation, the LORD will hand Sisera over to a woman. So Deborah went with Barak to Kedesh.
Faith:
In Judges 4:12-14 we read when Sisera was told that Barak had gone up to Mount Tabor, he gathered together 900 iron chariots and the men with him. In v14 Deborah told Barak to get ready, because God will give him victory over Sisera.
Poetess:
Judges 5 Song of Deborah. She magnifies the LORD as being the One who enabled Israel’s leaders to conquer their enemies.
She ends her song with v31 “So may all your enemies perish, LORD! But may all who love you be like the sun when it rises in its strength.” Then the land had peace forty years.

What the Bible teaches about Judging:
Old Testament:
In Exodus 12:1-14 God instructed Moses and Aaron on what to do when they left Egypt. In short, they had to take some of the blood of the lamb they had slaughtered and put it on the sides and tops of the door frames of their house, where they ate a one-year-old male, either a sheep or a goat. In vv11-12 God instructed them to be fully dressed, and eat the Passover meal with urgency because He is going to lead them out and then “execute judgment against all the gods of Egypt.”
In Deuteronomy, 1:9-18 Moses appoints leaders over each of the tribes. They have become “as numerous as the stars.” They have also become “a heavy load to carry.” He could not bear their problems, burdens, and disputes by himself. He charged their judges to hear disputes from their fellow Israelites and foreigners and then judge them fairly.
In 2 Chronicles 19:4-7, King Jehoshaphat was the king of Judah and lived in Jerusalem. He went out among the people and turned them back to the LORD, the God of their fathers. He appointed judges who were to judge the people as for God and not man.
Isaiah 66:16 In this final chapter of Isaiah, he writes there will be both judgment and hope. Vv12-13 For this is what the LORD says “I will extend peace to her like a river, and the wealth of nations like a flooding stream; you will nurse and be carried on her arm and dandled on her knees. As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem.” In vv14-16 the hand of the LORD will be made known to His servants, but His fury will be shown to His foes. v16 For with fire and with His sword the LORD will execute judgment upon all people, and many will be those slain by the LORD.

New Testament:
Matthew 7:1-6 When Jesus went up on the mountainside He taught the people many things. One of his topics was “Judging Others.” See our definition.
Luke 6:37-38 Luke also writes what Jesus taught about “Judging Others” Always remember that the same measure with which we use to treat others – generously, graciously, and compassionately – will also be used for us – a good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over.
John 8:1-11 Jesus forgives an adulterous woman: The Pharisees had brought a woman who had been caught in adultery. They wanted to know what Jesus would say, because, in the Law, Moses commanded that such a woman should be stoned. They were seeking an excuse to accuse Jesus. Jesus did not answer them but instead started writing in the sand.  v7 When they kept on questioning Him, He straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.“
Romans 2:1-16 This passage is about “God’s Righteous Judgment.” Paul was saying: There is no excuse for any of us to pass judgment on others. We all sin repeatedly and there is no way apart from Christ to be saved.
1 Corinthians 4:1-5 Paul was writing to the people of Corinth that he, Paul, Apollos, and Peter were mere servants of Christ, who has been “entrusted with the secret things of God.” He does not care if he is judged by men. We so easily judge fellow Christians. Never forget that only God knows our hearts and He is the only One with the right to judge.
James 4:11-12 James is saying that when we speak evil against each other or criticize and judge each other we are criticizing and judging God’s law. By judging the law we are not keeping it but we are sitting in judgment of the law.

Application:
In our character study, we saw that Deborah was a judge.  The book of Judges in the Bible gives us the process by which God judged the people. Judges 2:18 Whenever the LORD raised a judge for them, He was with the judge and saved them out of the hands of their enemies as long as the judge lived; for the LORD had compassion on them as they groaned under those who oppressed and afflicted them.
The Bible’s command that we must not judge, does not mean we cannot show discernment. When Jesus said that we are not to judge others, He did not imply that we must not identify sin for what it is. For God, sin is sin, whether it is murder or a white lie. When passing judgment, we are showing that we agree with God that it is sin.
Jesus said that we are to look at our sins before judging someone else. We are to confront others’ sins with truth, but at the same time still love and respect them.
How do we know when to judge and when not?
Jesus reminds us in Matthew 12:36 and 37 that we have to be very careful when we speak because the words we speak are usually an indication of what goes on in our hearts. We should think before we speak especially when tempted to criticize/judge someone. Make it a habit to pray Psalm 141:3 Set a guard over my mouth, O LORD; keep a watch over the door of my mouth.
1 Corinthians 6:1-6 In this passage, Paul is teaching how a congregation should handle small problems between believers. As believers, we have the Holy Spirit and the mind of Christ. That is why it should not be necessary for us to turn to those who lack God’s wisdom. Just as we will one day judge the world and angels, we surely should be able to resolve ordinary disputes among ourselves.
2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
This verse speaks for itself.
Hebrews 4:12 When we make the Lord our priority, we will believe every word written in Scripture. It is living and life-changing as it works in us. It reveals who we are, penetrating the core of our moral and spiritual life. We must not just listen to what the Word says; we must allow it to shape our lives.

Conclusion:
1 Peter 4:5 But they will have to give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

Responding in Prayer:
Read Psalm 18:1-24 – David sang to the LORD the words of this Psalm when the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and the hand of Saul.
There are times when we feel the hurt of words spoken in judgment against us and we do not know how to handle it. Those are the times we can be sure that God hears our voices as we cry out to Him.
Being human we also can be judgmental, i.e. “Judging the Pastor’s sermon!” The wonderful thing is that we can ask God to forgive us, when we have been judgmental, knowing that when we confess our sins and repent, we are forgiven. We can say “Hallelujah – Praise the Lord.”

Journal – Scripture/Prayers/Thoughts:

Posted on

DISCERNMENT

Biblical Definition of Discernment:
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (ESV)

Character Study:
Timothy – Acts 16:1-3; Romans 16:21; 1 Corinthians 4:17 and 16:10-11; 2 Corinthians 1:1 and 19; Philippians 1:1 and 2:19-23; Colossians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10; 2:3-4;3:2-6; 1 and 2 Timothy; Philemon; Hebrews 13:23
On Paul’s second missionary journey, he first went to Derby and then to Lystra where he met up with Timothy, who was living there with his mother, a Jewish believer and his father who was Greek.
We read in 2 Timothy 1:4-5 and 3:14-15 that he was trained by his grandmother Lois and mother, Eunice from a very young age.
Philippians 2:20 I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for our welfare. v21 For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. v22 But you know that Timothy has proved himself because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel.

Timothy is known as:
Paul’s protégé
In Acts 16:1-5 Timothy joins Paul and Silas on their second missionary journey. Because Timothy‘s father was Greek, he had not been circumcised when he was eight days old. Paul thought it wise to circumcise him as the Jews in that area knew his father was Greek.
1 Timothy 1:2 Paul writes that Timothy is his true son in the faith. In v18 Paul instructs Timothy regarding his responsibility, based on prophetic words spoken about him previously.
Philippians 2:19-23 Timothy was with Paul when he wrote this letter to the church in Philippi. Paul commends Timothy because he had proved himself like a son to Paul helping Paul to preach the Good News.
In 1 Corinthians 4:17, Paul sends Timothy to Corinth to remind the people of the way that Paul lives his life in Christ Jesus. He also reminds them what he, Paul, teaches in all the churches wherever he goes.
Teacher
Paul writes the letter of 1 Timothy to encourage him as he teaches the people and warns them against false prophets that had infiltrated the church.
In 1 Timothy 4:1-16 Paul instructs Timothy on how to be a good teacher to the people while showing discernment by preaching the Word and also correcting, rebuking and encouraging the people.
Worker
Romans 16:21; 1 Corinthians 16:10; 1 Thessalonians 3:2; 2 Timothy 2:15
Paul commends Timothy as a worker.
Encourager
1 Thessalonians 3:1-7 Paul sends Timothy to strengthen and encourage the believers in Thessalonica in their faith. Timothy returns with good news about their faith and love. They remember Paul’s visit with joy and would love to see him again.
Strong faith
2 Timothy 1:3-7 Paul encourages Timothy to be faithful. Paul commends Timothy’s mother Eunice and grandmother Lois who instilled a strong faith in him.
Timidity
1 Timothy 4:12 and 2 Timothy 1:7, 8 it seems that Timothy was young and timid. Paul encourages him in: 2 Timothy 1:7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

What the Bible teaches about discernment:
Old Testament:
Deuteronomy 32:1-47 Moses gives a brief history of Israel. This song which Moses teaches to Israel has an important purpose. It will be learned and passed on to future generations. Vv28 Moses says, “They are a nation   without sense; there is no discernment in them.”
1 Kings 3:3-9 Solomon asks for wisdom. The LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream at Gibeon. When asked what he would like, Solomon asks the LORD that He would give him, Solomon, a discerning heart to govern the people and that he would be able to distinguish between right and wrong
The Book of Proverbs tells us about people who have wisdom and enjoy its benefits. In Proverbs 3:21-26 Solomon’s advice is to embrace wisdom and follow after understanding.
In Daniel 2:1-23 Nebuchadnezzar has a strange dream that not one of his astrologers could interpret. When Daniel is asked to interpret the dream, he asks the king for time, so that he might interpret the dream for him. He urges his friends to ask the God of heaven for mercy by telling them the secret. During the night the secret was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Daniel used discernment – the quality of being able to grasp and comprehend what is obscure – and he believed God would tell him all the king wanted to know.

New Testament:
Mark 12:28-32 When one of the Pharisees questioned Jesus about what “The Greatest Commandment” was, Jesus’ answer reduced the law to two simple principles: Love God and love others. The Pharisees commended Jesus for the right answer.
Romans 12:1-2 Paul urges the Christians to offer their bodies as “living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.” He is saying that God wants transformed people with renewed minds, living to honour and obey Him. By doing this we will be able to test and discern what God’s will is for our lives
Colossians 1:3-14 In his prayer of thanksgiving, Paul gives thanks to God for the church of Colossians for their faith in Christ Jesus and the love they have for all the saints. He has not stopped praying for them, asking God to fill them with the v9b “knowledge of His will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.
Hebrews 5:11-14 The writer of the letter to the Hebrews, are warning the people against falling away. These Jewish Christians were still immature. They should have been teachers by now, teaching the elementary truths of God’s word. They were reluctant to move out of their comfort zone and were “living on milk.”v14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. (ESV)

Application:
In the Book of Proverbs, God has something to say about every aspect of our life. We see in Proverbs 1:2-4 Solomon says the purpose of the Book is to: teach wisdom and discipline; understand words of insight; teach us how to have a disciplined and successful life; do what is right, just and fair; knowledge and discretion (discernment) to the young.
As believers, we need spiritual discernment.  Because Christ Jesus has become for us “wisdom from God that is our righteousness, holiness and redemption. (1 Corinthians 1:30). We need to have a personal relationship with Jesus.
This is the only way we can attain discernment/wisdom.
Psalm 111:10 When we understand that fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, we will be able to use discernment in the future.
How do we get wisdom? By studying the Bible and praying daily, allowing the Holy Spirit to be our guide.
1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 We must not scoff at prophecies, but instead test everything and hold on to what is good.
Hebrews 4:12 We need to remember that the Bible is God’s Word; living and active; it penetrates the core of our moral and spiritual life; it discerns both good and evil. We must not only read/listen to God’s Word, but we must also allow it to shape our lives.
James 1:5 When we lack wisdom/discernment, we as Christians can pray and ask God to help us make the right choices.
1 John 4:1 We should not believe everyone who says they have “a message from God.”  The best way to discern a “message” is to check and see if their words match what God says in the Bible; their commitment to the body of believers; their lifestyles; the fruit of their ministries and finally what they believe about Christ. Do they believe that Jesus is fully God and full man?

Conclusion:
Psalm 119:125 I am your servant; give me discernment that I may understand your statutes.

Responding in Prayer:
Read Philippians 1:3-11 – Paul’s letter of thanksgiving and prayer to the believers in Philippi.
We can ask the Lord as we start our day to give us spiritual understanding and wisdom, to discern the things of God.
We live in a world where we have difficulty at times knowing the truth from the false. As children of God, we can ask for wisdom and understanding to discern between what is right and what is wrong.
When we ask for discernment, God will increase our knowledge and understanding so that we will get to know and love Him more and more.
As we mature in the knowledge and understanding of God, we will desire to please only Him at all times. We will allow God’s will and not our own to be done in our lives.

(All Scriptures are from the New International Version (NIV) unless otherwise stipulated)

Journal – Scripture/Prayers/Thoughts:

Posted on

HOPE

Biblical definition of Hope:
Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Character Study:
Hannah – 1 Samuel 1-2
She was married to Elkanah who had two wives – Hannah and Peninah. She was the mother of Samuel, the prophet of God. After being barren for many years, God answered her prayer for a child. She then gives him back to God as a young boy. 1 Samuel 1:26 and she said to him, “Pardon me, my lord. As surely as you live, I am the woman who stood here beside you praying to the LORD. v27 I prayed for this child and the LORD has granted me what I asked of Him. v28 So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD.” And he worshiped the LORD there.
God blessed Hannah with 3 sons and 2 daughters. (1 Samuel 2:21)
Hannah is known as:
Woman of prayer
1 Samuel 1:1-16 We read that even though Hannah was one of two wives, barren, taunted by Peninah, a husband that could not understand her “self-pity”  and a high priest that misunderstood her motives, she did not give up hope. She prayed and poured out her heart to God.
Faithfulness and her faith
She was faithful and went to the House of the LORD every year (1:6) and when Eli told her God would answer her prayer she went home and began to eat again and was no longer sad. (1:18)
Devoted mother
1 Samuel 1:21-23 When her husband and the family went on their annual trip to go up to the house of the LORD, Hannah stayed home with Samuel until he had been weaned.
A woman of her word
1 Samuel 1:24-28 We read that once Samuel had been weaned Hannah took him to the Tabernacle in Shiloh along with a three-year-old-bull for the sacrifice and a basket of flour and some wine. After the sacrifice Hannah presented Samuel to Eli, reminding him that the LORD had granted her request for a child.
Praising God
Samuel 2:1-10 Hannah praises God for His answer to her prayer for a son. She saw God as a Rock, the One in whom we have our hope. She acknowledges Him as the One who knows our thoughts, words and attitude and He is also the Supreme Judge who administers perfect justice.

What the Bible teaches about hope:
Old Testament:
There are many Psalms that speak of hope:
Psalm 39:1-13 When we do not have God, our lives are fleeting and empty. This is when we put our hope in God.
Proverbs 13:12 Hope deferred (postponed/delayed) makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. (Italics in brackets mine)
Isaiah 40:12-31 Here we read that God is almighty and all-powerful. Nothing stops Him from caring for us personally. Verses 29-31 say that He gives strength to the weary and weak. We have the assurance that when our hope is in the LORD, our strength will be renewed; we will soar on wings like eagles; run and not grow weary; walk and not be faint.
Jeremiah 17:5-10 contrasts two kinds of people:
1. Those who put their trust in mere men – they are like stunted shrubs in the desert.
2. Those who trust in the LORD – they are like trees planted along a riverbank. v7 But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him.
In Lamentations Jeremiah laments as he watches the suffering of God’s people and the devastation of Jerusalem and the Temple. Jeremiah does not question God’s justice in sending suffering; instead he celebrates God’s faithfulness and unfailing love.
Lamentations 3:19-33 is about hope in the midst of affliction. When troubles come we still have hope; we are not consumed, because of the LORD’S love for us; His compassion never fails – it is new every morning; His faithfulness is great and for this reason we can wait for the LORD to deliver us.

New Testament:
Romans 4:13-25  As Christians we know that the promise God gave Abraham was that he would be the father of many nations (Genesis 17:2-4).We also know that the entire world would be blessed through him. (Genesis 12:3)
This promise was fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
Colossians 1: 24-29 Paul is telling the people of Colossae that he is suffering for them; he has become a servant by the commission God gave him to present  the word of God in its fullness – not only for the Jews but also for the Gentiles
Titus 2:11-15 In this book Paul is giving Titus instructions about “What Must Be Taught to Various Groups.” Because of God’s grace, salvation is for all people. We are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We are to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.
Hebrews 10:19-25 This passage is a call to persevere. When Jesus died for our sins on the cross, He opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. We can go into the presence of God with sincere hearts, trusting Him
1 Peter 1:3-12 The Hope of Eternal Life. In this passage Peter’s words offer us hope in times of trouble. He bases this on what God has done for us in Christ Jesus. We do not just put our hope in the future, but our eternal life begins when we trust Christ Jesus and in doing so we join God’s family.

Application:
All of us experience days when we feel discouraged. What can we do when we feel lonely or depressed? We can meditate on God’s kindness and love.
It says in: Psalm 42:5 Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Saviour and my God.
We can learn from Abraham. After God had made an oath in His own name that He would multiply Abraham’s descendants beyond number, Abraham waited patiently and he received what God had promised. When God gives  a promise, we can be sure that He will never change His mind.
As Christians we know that hope produces joy and peace in us through the Holy Spirit. Along with faith and love, hope is an enduring virtue of the Christian life. 1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Conclusion:
Romans 15:13 I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Responding in Prayer.
Read Psalm 130:1-8 – Putting our hope in the Lord.
We can praise God for the assurance we have of His forgiveness. When we cry out to God for help, He will hear us. All we need to do is confess our sins to Him. We can count on the Lord and put our hope in His word, because “with the Lord there is unfailing love.” His redemption overflows. As we yield to the Lord, we are able to cast all our anxieties on Him, because He cares for us.

A prayer of hope:
“Lord, help me to hear You saying, “I am your hope” over all the other voices. I’m running to You with both hands stretched out and grabbing on to You. Fill me up with hope and give me a tangible reminder today that hope is an unbreakable spiritual lifeline. In Jesus Name, Amen.”(Anonymous)

(All Scriptures are from the New International Version (NIV) unless otherwise stipulated)

Journal – Scripture/Prayers/Thoughts:

Posted on

JOY

Biblical definition of Joy:
Isaiah 12:2 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my defence; He has become my salvation.” v3 With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.

Character Study:
Ruth – Ruth 1:1-4:22; Matthew 1:5
She was a Moabitess, that is a Gentile, who was hated by Jews because they worshiped foreign gods and were therefore unclean. Her mother-in-law Naomi was an Ephrathite from Bethlehem.
She married Boaz, Naomi’s closest relative and became an ancestor of both David and Jesus.(Matthew 1:5-6)

Ruth is known for her:
Loyalty
In Ruth 1:4-18 Naomi’s husband and her 2 sons died. She had heard that the LORD had come to the aid of His people by providing food for them in Judah. Ruth gives up her own country, people and gods to follow Naomi, her mother-in-law, back to Israel. Naomi encourages her to go back to her people. Ruth 1:16 But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.v17 Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.”
Diligence
In Ruth 2:1-3 she went out and began to glean in the fields behind the harvesters. She picked up the left over grain for herself and her mother-in-law.
Love for her mother-in-law
Ruth 2:4-15 Ruth showed great love towards her mother-in-law. She cared and provided for Naomi to such an extent that it was well-known throughout the town.
Obedience
Ruth 3:1-5 Ruth followed Naomi’s advice in everything she told her to do. Naomi told Ruth to go and lie down at Boaz’s feet. It should be noted that it was in accordance with Israelite custom and law. It was common for a servant to lay at the feet of his/her master and even share a part of his covering. By observing this custom, Ruth would inform Boaz that he could be her family redeemer – that he could find someone to marry her or marry her himself. It was family business, nothing romantic. But the story later became beautifully romantic as Ruth and Boaz developed an unselfish love and deep respect for each other. (LASB)

What the Bible teaches about joy:
Old Testament:
Ezra 6:19-22 The Israelites who had returned from the exile rebuilt the Temple. After they had completed it, they celebrated the Passover. The priests and Levites had purified themselves and were all ceremonially clean. They ate the Passover lamb, together with all who had separated themselves from the unclean practices of their Gentile neighbours in order to seek the LORD, the God of Israel. They celebrated the Feast of Unleavened Bread for seven days with joy.
Nehemiah 8:7-18 After the rebuilding of the Wall of Jerusalem, the Israelites settled in their own towns. All the people assembled as one man in the square before the Water Gate. They requested that Ezra the priest would bring out the Book of the Law of Moses and read to them what the LORD had commanded for Israel. On completion of the reading, in v10 Nehemiah encourages the people to go and celebrate and give gifts to those in need. They were not to be dejected because, the “Joy of the LORD was their strength.”
Psalm 100:1-5 This Psalm is an invitation to enter joyfully into God’s presence. It is also a Psalm of thanksgiving.
Isaiah 55:1-13 This chapter is an invitation to the LORD’S salvation. Verses 1, 2 and 6 tell us how to get free nourishment that feeds our soul from the LORD. All we have to do is to: Come, Listen and Seek the LORD while He may be found. Verses 8-11 tell us that the LORD’S thoughts are not our thoughts and His ways not our ways. Just as God’s Word goes out from His mouth, it will not return to Him empty, but will accomplish what He desires. v12 You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and the trees of the field will clap their hands.
Jeremiah 31:1-14 This passage is a promise to all the families of Israel, not only the tribe of Judah. It also includes all people who trust in God.

New Testament:
Luke 2:8-15 This passage tells us that after the birth of Jesus, an angel of the Lord appeared to shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. The shepherds were terrified, but the angel reassures them to not be afraid, because he is bringing them “news of great joy” about the birth of Jesus who is Christ the Lord.
John 15:1-11 Jesus teaches about the vine and the branches. Jesus is the true vine, God is the gardener and the followers of Jesus are the branches. True believers will be fruitful branches – these branches are cut back to promote growth. God sometimes needs to discipline us to strengthen our character and faith. Those “branches” who do not bear fruit will be v6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. A true believer’s privilege is that if they remain in Christ and His words remain in them, they may ask whatever they wish and it will be given to them. v11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.
Romans 15:1-13 In this passage Paul encourages believers not to just read the Bible but to also study it. In this way we have confidence that God’s will is the best for us.
He continues to write that we are to accept one another. Four times he mentions “Gentiles.”
2 Samuel 22:50; Psalm 18:49 David wrote that he would praise the Lord among the Gentiles.
Deuteronomy 32:43 Gentiles are to rejoice with the Jewish people.
Psalm 117:1 They must praise the Lord.
Isaiah 11:10 They will hope in Him. (see Septuagint)
Philippians 4:2-9 Words of Encouragement: Paul was in prison when he wrote this letter to the Philippians. We see in: “v4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Paul knew that no matter what happened to him, Jesus Christ was with him.
James 1:2-18 Trials and temptations: James tells us that “when” we have troubles, we are to: “v2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, v3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.“

Application:
As Christians joy should be part of our daily life. This is not always easy because there are times when it is difficult to show joy. There are times when the troubles in our circumstances or situations, “drag” us down.
At those times, when we experience joylessness we can read:
1 Kings 18:16 – 19:9 The encounter of Elijah who had just defeated 450 prophets of Baal with fire called down from heaven. He became fearful and fled into the desert when Jezebel threatened to kill him. He then asks God to take his life. vv9b -18 The Lord appears to Elijah.
Proverbs 17:22a When you have joy in your heart, you can encourage others, be enthusiastic about your tasks, and you are also able to be positive about what the future holds.
1 Thessalonians 5:16 It is not always easy to be joyful, to pray and give thanks when it feels as if our circumstances or situations are out of control. The plus side of this is that when we are obedient and allow God’s will in our lives, we will find it easier to be joyful, to pray and to be thankful.
In Philippians 4:4-8 Paul tells us to “rejoice” because the Lord is near. We can bring all our anxieties to God and He will give us “peace that surpasses all understanding.” Lastly, we need to keep our minds focused on the good things of God.

Conclusion:
Romans 12:12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

Responding in Prayer:
Read Psalm 67:1-7 – Spreading the Gospel about Jesus will bring joy all over the world.
When we make it our daily prayer to pray or intercede for people such as missionaries, believers in countries where they are being persecuted for their faith in Jesus or you and me spreading the Gospel, we can say with the Psalmist: v4 May the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you rule the peoples with equity and guide the nations of the earth.
There are times when our trials and tribulations seem to engulf our lives. We cannot see anything to be joyful about. Those are the times we can “remember” Luke 6:23 “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their ancestors treated the prophets.”

Journal – Scripture/Prayers/Thoughts:

Posted on

WISDOM

Biblical definition of Wisdom:
James 3:17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.

Character Study;
Solomon – 2 Samuel 12:24 – 1 Kings11:43; 1 Chronicles 28-29; 2 Chronicles 1 – 10; Nehemiah 13:26; Psalm 72; Matthew 6:29; 12:42

Solomon:
Also called Jedidah meaning loved by the LORD; loved of Yahweh (2 Samuel 12:24-25)
His father was David and his mother was Bathsheba. David selected him, as he was the son of his favourite wife, to become the next king.
Solomon asked God for wisdom – 1 Kings 3:9 So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?” v10 The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this.
He is the author of Proverbs 1 – 30; Ecclesiastes and Song of Songs.

Solomon is known for his:
Wisdom
In 1 Kings 3:3-15 and 2 Chronicles 1:1-13 we read how when God asked Solomon at Gibeon what he wanted, he asked for wisdom and knowledge.
His wisdom was widespread because we read in 1 Kings 1:1-13 and 2 Chronicles 9:1-12 that the Queen of Sheba came to “test him with hard questions.” When she saw the wisdom, the palace, and the sacrifices he made at the Temple she was “overwhelmed.”
1 Kings 4:32 He spoke three thousand proverbs and his songs numbered a thousand and five.
Building of the Temple
In 1 Kings 5:1 – 9:9 Solomon builds the Temple and his palace. 2 Chronicles 2:1 – 7:22 Solomon built the Temple. We see in both passages how Solomon dedicated the Temple and the Lord then appears to him giving him a promise. 2 Chronicles 7:14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
Pagan wives were his downfall
In 1 Kings 1:1-14, we read that he had 700 wives of royal birth and 300 hundred concubines who led him astray. He allowed his wives to affect his loyalty to God and started worshipping other gods
1 Kings 3:3 He continued worshipping God at the original Canaanite high places, which was forbidden.

What the Bible teaches about wisdom:
Old Testament:
Job 28:12-28 In this passage Job speaks of wisdom and understanding. In v12 he asks where wisdom can be found and where understanding dwells. He continues to say that it cannot be found in the land of the living. Wisdom is more valuable that any gold or gems. v23 He answers that only God knows where it dwells. v28 He concludes that God is the source of wisdom.
Psalm 111:1-10 This Psalm shows us that everything God does is for our good and reverence. The LORD is the beginning of wisdom.
Proverbs 2:1-11 Moral Benefits of Wisdom – Verses 1-8 say that the Lord will give wisdom to those who are faithful. Verses 9-11 say that we will find the right way to go because wisdom will enter our hearts and knowledge will fill us with joy.
Jeremiah 9:23-24 People tend to admire wisdom, strength and wealth in others. God’s priority is that we know Him personally and live a life that reflects kindness, justice and righteousness.
In Daniel 2:1-19 Nebuchadnezzar had dreams and asked his magicians, enchanters, sorcerers and astrologers to tell him what he had dreamt. Not one of them could do this and the king ordered the execution of all the wise men of Babylon. After Daniel had spoken to the king, he returned home asking his friends to plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning the mystery of the dreams, so that he and his friends might not be executed with the rest of the wise men. During the night the mystery was revealed to him in a vision.
This passage shows that wisdom comes from God alone!

New Testament:
Luke 21:5-38 Jesus talks to His disciples about the “Signs of the End of the Age.” He gives them a promise in v15 that He will give them the right words and also wisdom so that none of their opponents will be able to reply or take a stand against them.
Acts 6:8-15 Stephen was a man full of God’s grace and power; he did great wonders and performed miraculous signs. He was arrested by a group of men from the Synagogue of Freed Slaves (also called Freedmen). They argued with him but were unable to stand up against his wisdom.
1 Corinthians 2:6-16 For true Spiritual wisdom or discernment, a believer must be guided by the Holy Spirit.
Paul taught the Corinthians that true wisdom requires the believer to be guided by the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 1:15-23 In this prayer Paul asks the God of our Lord Jesus Christ to give all believers Spiritual wisdom and revelation to know Him better. We can read the Bible or daily devotions and only know about God. The only way to have a personal relationship with Jesus is to spend time with Him, not only reading our Bibles but studying it, in prayer, worship and giving thanks for what God has done for us.
Colossians 3:1-17 Paul writes what Christians should do to live a holy life. He sums it up in v16 Let the message of Christ dwell in among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.

Application:
In Ecclesiastes 7:1-14 we read what form of application Biblical wisdom should take in life and vv15-29 shows the limits of human wisdom.
Daily we can interpret the verses as follows:
vv1-4 We live with adversity daily, so as Christians we know that we learn more about God’s will for our lives, when there are struggles, sorrows or suffering! 
vv5-6 It is better to be reprimanded by a wise person and so be refined for the Kingdom of God than to be praised by a fool.
v7 There is a saying, “Money talks.” We read or see on TV how easily people are bribed – it can be said that those who are involved in extortion or bribes are truly fools.
v8 When starting a project or ministry it takes patience to see it through or to be consistent. This is a practical way of showing “faith in action.”
v9 We need to control our anger, especially when rebuking or chastising someone. Our tone of voice should be to the benefit of everyone involved.
v10 We need to resist the urge to too long for “the good old days.” As a disciple of Jesus, we need to adhere to what He said in: Luke 9:62 Jesus replied, “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.”
vv11-12 Both wisdom and money can be a benefit and get you almost anything, but only wisdom can save your life! We should not be part-time Christians, but Christians wholly devoted to God alone.
v13 We must submit to God’s will, and accept the way He does things.
v14 God allows both the good and bad times to come to everyone. We should be content in all circumstances, recognizing that God is in control.

Conclusion:
James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

Responding in Prayer:
Read Psalm 37:1-40 – Instructions on how to gain wisdom.
This Psalm gives insight into the realities of life, inviting believers to have trust, peace and contentment even when it feels as if evil has the upper hand.
The Psalm also contrasts the wicked person with the righteous. When we ask for wisdom, we can be assured of: v23 The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him; v24 though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with His hand.
Give thanks in all circumstances – good and bad – for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

(All Scriptures are from the New International Version (NIV) unless otherwise stipulated)

Journal – Scripture/Prayers/ Thoughts: