Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. We come to the end of this book today, but we also conclude the first section of the Bible, often called the Books of the Law. Think of the journey these writings of Moses have taken us on! We started in the void of space, got a picture of creation, spent time in the Garden of Eden, saw the earth covered with water, traveled with Abraham, saw Joseph rise from the dungeon to the palace, experienced the devastation of slavery, saw God's deliverance and received His Law. Israel is now about to cross into the Promised Land and we are about to enter into their rise and fall as a political power.
Joshua opens with God reinforcing that Josh needed to be strong and courageous. Then it quickly enters the story of Rahab the harlot, a direct ancestor (so many "greats", then "grandmother") of Jesus. What do you think of the way God used her?
Luke. It's difficult to believe how blind the religious leaders had become. They were so swallowed up with keeping their rules that they forgot the kindness of God. Have you met people like that? I have. In fact, to a certain extent I used to be one!
Psalms. It is obviously dear to God's heart when His people cry out to Him in trouble. Yet we find it so easy to try everything else first!
Proverbs. I pray that you and I are like fountains of good advice.
How are you doing today? What are your thoughts? Your questions?
Showing posts with label Deuteronomy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Deuteronomy. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Monday, April 9, 2012
April 9
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. Moses, at the end of his life, shares his words of blessing to each of Israel's tribes. My parents' generation were children of world wars and depression. They knew what it was to barely get by and were grateful for very small things like enough food to eat. During such hardship, I believe that many of them lost the art of speaking a blessing upon their children. Author Gary Smalley noticed the void and wrote a book called simply "The Blessing." A quarter century has passed and I am pleased at the number of Christian parents who go out of their way to encourage -- bless -- their children.
Luke. Do you remember when Jesus cursed the fig tree during Holy Week? It withered and died. The fig tree was symbolic of the nation of Israel, even back in the Old Testament.
Psalms. Whatever the reasons, God chose Judah as the tribal family through whom the Messiah would be born.
Proverbs. I pray that you and I can help people by encouraging them as they face life's trials. I know I need it!
What are your thoughts today? Do you have questions?
Deuteronomy. Moses, at the end of his life, shares his words of blessing to each of Israel's tribes. My parents' generation were children of world wars and depression. They knew what it was to barely get by and were grateful for very small things like enough food to eat. During such hardship, I believe that many of them lost the art of speaking a blessing upon their children. Author Gary Smalley noticed the void and wrote a book called simply "The Blessing." A quarter century has passed and I am pleased at the number of Christian parents who go out of their way to encourage -- bless -- their children.
Luke. Do you remember when Jesus cursed the fig tree during Holy Week? It withered and died. The fig tree was symbolic of the nation of Israel, even back in the Old Testament.
Psalms. Whatever the reasons, God chose Judah as the tribal family through whom the Messiah would be born.
Proverbs. I pray that you and I can help people by encouraging them as they face life's trials. I know I need it!
What are your thoughts today? Do you have questions?
Sunday, April 8, 2012
April 8
Today's Reading
Happy Easter! He is risen!
Deuteronomy. I wonder what it was like for Moses to climb Mount Nebo, knowing that he was going there to die. He was "real" to the end; he cried out to God for another chance, then accepted God's will. I never considered it before, but isn't that similar to what Jesus did in the Garden of Gethsemane?
Luke. I was reminded that one of the hardest things about the Gospel is its divisive nature. It's not that Christ's followers should try to be divisive among those they love. We need to love unconditionally, but stand for the truth. When we do that, others will often separate themselves from us because they don't want to face the truth. Still, we are to love them.
Psalms. Oh, that we would let Jesus perform His work in us and grow us in stability and faithfulness.
Proverbs. True leadership is acquired by hard work, not just by extreme natural skills.
What are your thoughts today? Do you have questions?
Happy Easter! He is risen!
Deuteronomy. I wonder what it was like for Moses to climb Mount Nebo, knowing that he was going there to die. He was "real" to the end; he cried out to God for another chance, then accepted God's will. I never considered it before, but isn't that similar to what Jesus did in the Garden of Gethsemane?
Luke. I was reminded that one of the hardest things about the Gospel is its divisive nature. It's not that Christ's followers should try to be divisive among those they love. We need to love unconditionally, but stand for the truth. When we do that, others will often separate themselves from us because they don't want to face the truth. Still, we are to love them.
Psalms. Oh, that we would let Jesus perform His work in us and grow us in stability and faithfulness.
Proverbs. True leadership is acquired by hard work, not just by extreme natural skills.
What are your thoughts today? Do you have questions?
Saturday, April 7, 2012
April 7
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. I was in a Small Group gathering where someone mentioned remembering the books of the New Testament because she learned them as a kid in the form of a song. Something about our mental processes helps us remember (even memorize) things normally difficult for us if we learn them attached to a tune. God wanted His people to remember Him after they entered the Land so He gave Moses a song.
Luke. Jesus shares several facets of truth about money today. Which one speaks the most to you?
Psalms. I find great comfort in the promise that God is constantly merciful toward me because He remembers that I am a mere mortal. How about you?
Proverbs. One of the signs of spiritual maturity is the willingness to keep truth to ourselves and share it only at appropriate moments. I need to keep growing in that area.
How are you doing today? Do you have questions?
Deuteronomy. I was in a Small Group gathering where someone mentioned remembering the books of the New Testament because she learned them as a kid in the form of a song. Something about our mental processes helps us remember (even memorize) things normally difficult for us if we learn them attached to a tune. God wanted His people to remember Him after they entered the Land so He gave Moses a song.
Luke. Jesus shares several facets of truth about money today. Which one speaks the most to you?
Psalms. I find great comfort in the promise that God is constantly merciful toward me because He remembers that I am a mere mortal. How about you?
Proverbs. One of the signs of spiritual maturity is the willingness to keep truth to ourselves and share it only at appropriate moments. I need to keep growing in that area.
How are you doing today? Do you have questions?
Friday, April 6, 2012
April 6
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. The choice is simple, but the choosing of it is often hard. Sin tugs and tempts us, even after we receive Christ's forgiveness and have the power of the Holy Spirit in us. Galatians echoes this passage with the statement, "Whatever you plant, you harvest."
Luke. Jesus warns the religious leaders about their sorrow to come because they crushed people with the Law. When I was young, I saw a situation where people could be kicked out of their church for reading their Bibles on their own. Their leader justified this, saying that the ignorant people weren't qualified to properly interpret it. As I get older, I see more and more how tempting it is for religious leaders to oppress their people and justify it using Scripture.
Psalms. "...each generation should set its hope anew on God..." I think that we must teach our kids not only to obey God's ways, but to place their hope in Him as the ultimate solution to their problems.
Proverbs. Someone who consistently tells the truth doesn't have to remember later what they said with fear that they previously said it differently.
What are your thoughts today? Do you have questions?
Deuteronomy. The choice is simple, but the choosing of it is often hard. Sin tugs and tempts us, even after we receive Christ's forgiveness and have the power of the Holy Spirit in us. Galatians echoes this passage with the statement, "Whatever you plant, you harvest."
Luke. Jesus warns the religious leaders about their sorrow to come because they crushed people with the Law. When I was young, I saw a situation where people could be kicked out of their church for reading their Bibles on their own. Their leader justified this, saying that the ignorant people weren't qualified to properly interpret it. As I get older, I see more and more how tempting it is for religious leaders to oppress their people and justify it using Scripture.
Psalms. "...each generation should set its hope anew on God..." I think that we must teach our kids not only to obey God's ways, but to place their hope in Him as the ultimate solution to their problems.
Proverbs. Someone who consistently tells the truth doesn't have to remember later what they said with fear that they previously said it differently.
What are your thoughts today? Do you have questions?
Thursday, April 5, 2012
April 5
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. This word picture is graphic and sickening. It ultimately came true because God's people ultimately turned against Him. Finally, He sent Jesus to pay for the horrible sins of humankind and gave the gift of His Holy Spirit to change us from the inside out. Wow!
Luke. My observation is that, the more we yield our lives to the direction and power of the Holy Spirit, the more God's light shines through us. Our yielding often comes through the revealing of our weakness and never through relying on our own strength. A friend of mine recently said, "Some people put out the welcome mat of their hearts for Jesus and invite Him in, but they only allow Him into the front door. They don't open up the dark corners of their hearts to Him." "No dark corners," Jesus said in this passage.
Psalms. I know the feelings expressed by the Psalmist. It can seem like life is full of troubles and God is against us. We get figuratively backed up to the Sea with the enemy attacking from our other side. Then...
Your road led through the sea,
your pathway through the mighty waters.
Proverbs. Hurting people hurt people. May we let God heal our hurts so that we speak healing.
What do you see in today's reading? What questions come to mind?
Deuteronomy. This word picture is graphic and sickening. It ultimately came true because God's people ultimately turned against Him. Finally, He sent Jesus to pay for the horrible sins of humankind and gave the gift of His Holy Spirit to change us from the inside out. Wow!
Luke. My observation is that, the more we yield our lives to the direction and power of the Holy Spirit, the more God's light shines through us. Our yielding often comes through the revealing of our weakness and never through relying on our own strength. A friend of mine recently said, "Some people put out the welcome mat of their hearts for Jesus and invite Him in, but they only allow Him into the front door. They don't open up the dark corners of their hearts to Him." "No dark corners," Jesus said in this passage.
Psalms. I know the feelings expressed by the Psalmist. It can seem like life is full of troubles and God is against us. We get figuratively backed up to the Sea with the enemy attacking from our other side. Then...
Your road led through the sea,
your pathway through the mighty waters.
Proverbs. Hurting people hurt people. May we let God heal our hurts so that we speak healing.
What do you see in today's reading? What questions come to mind?
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
April 4
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. I have grown in understanding and gratitude for this description of bringing the first offerings in the new land. What a powerful reminder that it was God that got them here. I can "see" the visual effect of pronouncing the curses from Mount Ebal and the blessings from Mount
Luke. I wonder how the simplicity of Christ's model prayer originally struck the disciples. Do you think that maybe they were looking for something "deeper?" Which phrase of this prayer means the most to you? Why?
This is the year that Jesus' story about persistent prayer is really taking hold in my life. What a picture!
Psalms. In the end, God alone is left standing. The rest of us will be kneeling before Him, either in broken defeat or unbridled worship. I so long for that day!
Proverbs. wise person always listens, learning from everyone and discerning truth from error.
Your comments today? I would love to hear them!
Deuteronomy. I have grown in understanding and gratitude for this description of bringing the first offerings in the new land. What a powerful reminder that it was God that got them here. I can "see" the visual effect of pronouncing the curses from Mount Ebal and the blessings from Mount
Luke. I wonder how the simplicity of Christ's model prayer originally struck the disciples. Do you think that maybe they were looking for something "deeper?" Which phrase of this prayer means the most to you? Why?
This is the year that Jesus' story about persistent prayer is really taking hold in my life. What a picture!
Psalms. In the end, God alone is left standing. The rest of us will be kneeling before Him, either in broken defeat or unbridled worship. I so long for that day!
Proverbs. wise person always listens, learning from everyone and discerning truth from error.
Your comments today? I would love to hear them!
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
April 3
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. As I read today's passage, I thought about those of you who are reading it for the first time. It's hard to imagine some of these regulations. Which ones jump out at you? What are your questions and/or comments?
Luke. It recently helped me to think of The Good Samaritan in a different context. If it were instead an American who was attacked on Interstate 8 and he was helped by an undocumented immigrant, then I think we can understand some of this story's emotion.
Psalms. The earth may seem to be spinning out of control, but God faithfully watches and judges.
Proverbs. May we live wisely and work hard.
I'd love to hear from you today! What questions arise in your mind? What is speaking to you?
Deuteronomy. As I read today's passage, I thought about those of you who are reading it for the first time. It's hard to imagine some of these regulations. Which ones jump out at you? What are your questions and/or comments?
Luke. It recently helped me to think of The Good Samaritan in a different context. If it were instead an American who was attacked on Interstate 8 and he was helped by an undocumented immigrant, then I think we can understand some of this story's emotion.
Psalms. The earth may seem to be spinning out of control, but God faithfully watches and judges.
Proverbs. May we live wisely and work hard.
I'd love to hear from you today! What questions arise in your mind? What is speaking to you?
Monday, April 2, 2012
April 2
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. While many of these regulations don't jive with our current culture, most (or all) of them paint a significant picture of God's righteous standards. Living by them not only brings Him glory, but also protects us from much pain. What do you think?
Luke. Don't be quick to condemn those who do wrong. It's very human to want fire from heaven, but it's not the character of Christ.
Psalms, on the other hand, calls for judgment. Part of this difference is the Old Testament, when God's people were at war with their human enemies. The New Testament is about war with spiritual enemies.
Proverbs includes yet another word of wisdom for those who want to survive difficult economic times.
Your thoughts today? Do you have questions?
Deuteronomy. While many of these regulations don't jive with our current culture, most (or all) of them paint a significant picture of God's righteous standards. Living by them not only brings Him glory, but also protects us from much pain. What do you think?
Luke. Don't be quick to condemn those who do wrong. It's very human to want fire from heaven, but it's not the character of Christ.
Psalms, on the other hand, calls for judgment. Part of this difference is the Old Testament, when God's people were at war with their human enemies. The New Testament is about war with spiritual enemies.
Proverbs includes yet another word of wisdom for those who want to survive difficult economic times.
Your thoughts today? Do you have questions?
Sunday, April 1, 2012
April 1
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. It must have been very interesting to live in a City of Refuge. I'm just sayin'...
Being a pastor in a city with military bases makes me often think about the rules of engagement in Deuteronomy 20. I find it especially significant that God warned them not to cut down the fruit trees. As someone who grew up with a small fruit orchard, the value of those trees is beyond numbers. It can take many years to replace them with trees that will bear similar fruit. Fighting forces, though, can be tempted to ravage the land in their quest for victory.
Luke. "30 Suddenly, two men, Moses and Elijah, appeared and began talking with Jesus. 31 They were glorious to see. And they were speaking about his exodus from this world, which was about to be fulfilled in Jerusalem." To the disciples, He was leaving. To Moses and Elijah, their Lord was coming home. What a conversation that must have been!
Psalms. Does it seem unfair when you try to live God's way and struggle, while someone else is far from God and prospers. Then read this chapter carefully.
Proverbs. It's uncanny how much you can tell about someone by the way they care for their animals.
We have had fruit trees and animals today. Interesting topic during "Fair Week" in Yuma! Do you have thoughts or questions?
Deuteronomy. It must have been very interesting to live in a City of Refuge. I'm just sayin'...
Being a pastor in a city with military bases makes me often think about the rules of engagement in Deuteronomy 20. I find it especially significant that God warned them not to cut down the fruit trees. As someone who grew up with a small fruit orchard, the value of those trees is beyond numbers. It can take many years to replace them with trees that will bear similar fruit. Fighting forces, though, can be tempted to ravage the land in their quest for victory.
Luke. "30 Suddenly, two men, Moses and Elijah, appeared and began talking with Jesus. 31 They were glorious to see. And they were speaking about his exodus from this world, which was about to be fulfilled in Jerusalem." To the disciples, He was leaving. To Moses and Elijah, their Lord was coming home. What a conversation that must have been!
Psalms. Does it seem unfair when you try to live God's way and struggle, while someone else is far from God and prospers. Then read this chapter carefully.
Proverbs. It's uncanny how much you can tell about someone by the way they care for their animals.
We have had fruit trees and animals today. Interesting topic during "Fair Week" in Yuma! Do you have thoughts or questions?
Saturday, March 31, 2012
March 31
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. It amazes me that God gave them guidelines if they selected a king. However, he strongly warned them not to select one. Today also includes a "story behind the story": Deuteronomy warns that a king should not have many wives or they would pull his heart away from the Lord. Solomon, who violated this passage and harvested what he planted, wrote the Psalm we read today. It's amazing how someone with such insight into God's ways could make such a wrong choice. I take that as a warning for us.
Luke. You and I look back on the ministry of Jesus with a perspective of what would come later, including His death, resurrection and ultimate return. They had limited awareness at the time. Imagine how awestruck they were and consider how confusing He must have been to them.
Psalms. David (Solomon's father) was a warrior who had God's compassion for the poor. It's interesting how our two (U.S.) political parties have tended to divide these issues, each being stronger on one and weaker on the other.
Proverbs. If nothing else, may we have common sense in all our dealings.
That's about it. How about your input? Do you have questions today?
Deuteronomy. It amazes me that God gave them guidelines if they selected a king. However, he strongly warned them not to select one. Today also includes a "story behind the story": Deuteronomy warns that a king should not have many wives or they would pull his heart away from the Lord. Solomon, who violated this passage and harvested what he planted, wrote the Psalm we read today. It's amazing how someone with such insight into God's ways could make such a wrong choice. I take that as a warning for us.
Luke. You and I look back on the ministry of Jesus with a perspective of what would come later, including His death, resurrection and ultimate return. They had limited awareness at the time. Imagine how awestruck they were and consider how confusing He must have been to them.
Psalms. David (Solomon's father) was a warrior who had God's compassion for the poor. It's interesting how our two (U.S.) political parties have tended to divide these issues, each being stronger on one and weaker on the other.
Proverbs. If nothing else, may we have common sense in all our dealings.
That's about it. How about your input? Do you have questions today?
Friday, March 30, 2012
March 30
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. Don't be tricked into worshiping other gods: I read a book in which the author was able to go to various Middle Eastern leaders and ask them about Jesus' teaching to "love your neighbor as yourself." As he recorded their answers, he not only heard a variety of reasons why that doesn't work (and one or two comments from people who are attempting to live it); he heard a wide array of views about religion. It is very tempting to just fall in step with the idea that any old god will do as long as you really believe.
Today we saw again some of the strict dietary laws which God designed to protect them. Finally we were reminded about the laws of taking servants and releasing them at the selected time.
Luke. This story always touches me. It includes the power of Jesus, the hard-hearted crowd and the desperation of a dad. Then, with Jesus on the way to help, a woman from the crowd touches His garment. What a picture. An ocean of need that Jesus sent His followers into. Let's grab our prayer buckets and start bailing!
Psalms. No matter how hard this life is, God ultimately restores us to life -- either here or in heaven. This psalm filled my heart with hope as I read it.
Proverbs. May God help us speak words that lead to life.
Your thoughts and questions today?
Deuteronomy. Don't be tricked into worshiping other gods: I read a book in which the author was able to go to various Middle Eastern leaders and ask them about Jesus' teaching to "love your neighbor as yourself." As he recorded their answers, he not only heard a variety of reasons why that doesn't work (and one or two comments from people who are attempting to live it); he heard a wide array of views about religion. It is very tempting to just fall in step with the idea that any old god will do as long as you really believe.
Today we saw again some of the strict dietary laws which God designed to protect them. Finally we were reminded about the laws of taking servants and releasing them at the selected time.
Luke. This story always touches me. It includes the power of Jesus, the hard-hearted crowd and the desperation of a dad. Then, with Jesus on the way to help, a woman from the crowd touches His garment. What a picture. An ocean of need that Jesus sent His followers into. Let's grab our prayer buckets and start bailing!
Psalms. No matter how hard this life is, God ultimately restores us to life -- either here or in heaven. This psalm filled my heart with hope as I read it.
Proverbs. May God help us speak words that lead to life.
Your thoughts and questions today?
Thursday, March 29, 2012
March 29
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. God knew that Israel would be tempted to take on the worship practices of the pagan tribes they were displacing. He promised to protect and provide as long as they worshiped Him alone. The word picture of how they made rows with their feet to plant vegetables in Egypt is followed by God's promised to be their irrigation specialist as long as they put Him first. Wow!
Luke. For some reason, I read this passage through the lens of Jesus' selflessness. In the lake He had no fear of the storm and used it as a teaching opportunity. He was neither embarrassed nor afraid during the encounter with Legion. He didn't seem to think twice about the reaction when the pigs ran into the sea.
Psalms. This reminds me that life includes shouts of victory and whispered prayers for help. David remembered one but was experiencing the other.
I can't read this verse in Proverbs without being doubly grateful for Cathy.
I would love to hear from you today.
Deuteronomy. God knew that Israel would be tempted to take on the worship practices of the pagan tribes they were displacing. He promised to protect and provide as long as they worshiped Him alone. The word picture of how they made rows with their feet to plant vegetables in Egypt is followed by God's promised to be their irrigation specialist as long as they put Him first. Wow!
Luke. For some reason, I read this passage through the lens of Jesus' selflessness. In the lake He had no fear of the storm and used it as a teaching opportunity. He was neither embarrassed nor afraid during the encounter with Legion. He didn't seem to think twice about the reaction when the pigs ran into the sea.
Psalms. This reminds me that life includes shouts of victory and whispered prayers for help. David remembered one but was experiencing the other.
I can't read this verse in Proverbs without being doubly grateful for Cathy.
I would love to hear from you today.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
March 28
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. Moses reminded the people that God had a special plan for them because of His love. However, they needed to humble themselves before Him. It's a great lesson for you and me. Truthfully, God wanted to bless the whole world through them. Rather than take His blessings and hoard them, they were to demonstrate the power and love of God by refusing to following the false gods that were being worshiped in their new home. When He showered His blessings of love on them, they could show that love and encourage all to follow Him. The way it actually turned out is tragic.
Luke. When I was younger, I used to try to decide which of the four types of seed/soils were really saved for eternity. I'm not as concerned about that now. I have lived long enough to see people in each category. It makes me long to be good seed in good soil. You and I can choose which kind of seed we want to be. If we are in Christ, we are not the seed snatched away by the devil. We can choose how we live our lives as Christ-followers: shallow, choked out or multiplying. Which do you choose?
Psalms. Micah 6:8 says that the Lord requires us to do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with our God. I see all three in this Psalm.
Proverbs. I heard recently about someone who admitted, "I'm in over my head. I need to fix it and get out." Based on today's Proverbs, that's a recipe for disaster.
What are your thoughts, fellow reader? How about your questions?
Deuteronomy. Moses reminded the people that God had a special plan for them because of His love. However, they needed to humble themselves before Him. It's a great lesson for you and me. Truthfully, God wanted to bless the whole world through them. Rather than take His blessings and hoard them, they were to demonstrate the power and love of God by refusing to following the false gods that were being worshiped in their new home. When He showered His blessings of love on them, they could show that love and encourage all to follow Him. The way it actually turned out is tragic.
Luke. When I was younger, I used to try to decide which of the four types of seed/soils were really saved for eternity. I'm not as concerned about that now. I have lived long enough to see people in each category. It makes me long to be good seed in good soil. You and I can choose which kind of seed we want to be. If we are in Christ, we are not the seed snatched away by the devil. We can choose how we live our lives as Christ-followers: shallow, choked out or multiplying. Which do you choose?
Psalms. Micah 6:8 says that the Lord requires us to do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with our God. I see all three in this Psalm.
Proverbs. I heard recently about someone who admitted, "I'm in over my head. I need to fix it and get out." Based on today's Proverbs, that's a recipe for disaster.
What are your thoughts, fellow reader? How about your questions?
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
March 27
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. I was moved toward the end by these verses: "16 He fed you with manna in the wilderness, a food unknown to your ancestors. He did this to humble you and test you for your own good. 17 He did all this so you would never say to yourself, ‘I have achieved this wealth with my own strength and energy.’" I keep re-learning the lesson that I tend to get stale in my communion with God when everything is going fine. I am finally learning to keep that intimacy at all times, not just when everything seems to be falling apart.
Luke. I am touched by Jesus' story today about the man with two debtors. I think that, when I was young, I saw myself as the one who owed less. Every year that goes by, I see myself more as the one who owes the most.
Psalms. How can one be called "a man after God's own heart," and be such a great king, but still feel overwhelmed by troubles? David wrote about it today.
Proverbs. I'm better than I used to be, but it's still hard for me to do what this says: love discipline.
How's it going, Climbing Companion? What is speaking to you? What questions do you have?
Deuteronomy. I was moved toward the end by these verses: "16 He fed you with manna in the wilderness, a food unknown to your ancestors. He did this to humble you and test you for your own good. 17 He did all this so you would never say to yourself, ‘I have achieved this wealth with my own strength and energy.’" I keep re-learning the lesson that I tend to get stale in my communion with God when everything is going fine. I am finally learning to keep that intimacy at all times, not just when everything seems to be falling apart.
Luke. I am touched by Jesus' story today about the man with two debtors. I think that, when I was young, I saw myself as the one who owed less. Every year that goes by, I see myself more as the one who owes the most.
Psalms. How can one be called "a man after God's own heart," and be such a great king, but still feel overwhelmed by troubles? David wrote about it today.
Proverbs. I'm better than I used to be, but it's still hard for me to do what this says: love discipline.
How's it going, Climbing Companion? What is speaking to you? What questions do you have?
Monday, March 26, 2012
March 26
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. This is more than a refresher on the Ten Commandments. It is a word picture of the possibilities if God's people will completely follow Him and teach succeeding generations to do the same. It includes the need to resist temptation. God was setting Israel up as His people through whom the whole earth could know about Him. They failed. Will we?
Luke. I am moved by the compassion Jesus showed when healing the widow's son. Then He uses John the Baptizer as an example to demonstrate the religious leaders' blindness. You and I must beware of rejecting the true works of God because they come packaged in a way we didn't anticipate.
Psalms. I like the verse today: "Summon your might, O God. Display your power, O God, as you have in the past."
Often the best way to prepare for today's challenge is to remember God's previous acts of faithfulness to us.
Proverbs. "Those who bring trouble on their families inherit the wind." When you think about it, that is downright scary.
Your comments and questions bring great insight to the rest of us. What's on your mind today?
Deuteronomy. This is more than a refresher on the Ten Commandments. It is a word picture of the possibilities if God's people will completely follow Him and teach succeeding generations to do the same. It includes the need to resist temptation. God was setting Israel up as His people through whom the whole earth could know about Him. They failed. Will we?
Luke. I am moved by the compassion Jesus showed when healing the widow's son. Then He uses John the Baptizer as an example to demonstrate the religious leaders' blindness. You and I must beware of rejecting the true works of God because they come packaged in a way we didn't anticipate.
Psalms. I like the verse today: "Summon your might, O God. Display your power, O God, as you have in the past."
Often the best way to prepare for today's challenge is to remember God's previous acts of faithfulness to us.
Proverbs. "Those who bring trouble on their families inherit the wind." When you think about it, that is downright scary.
Your comments and questions bring great insight to the rest of us. What's on your mind today?
Sunday, March 25, 2012
March 25
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. I was struck by the simplicity of verse 2 Do not add to or subtract from these commands I am giving you. Just obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you.They truth is that they DID add to the commands and made the Law a back-breaking challenge which wouldn't allow anyone to succeed. At the same time, the religious leaders created loopholes for themselves and their cronies. No wonder this passage included the promise of a coming judgment.
Luke. The account of healing the Centurion's servant is one of my favorite events in Jesus' ministry.
Psalms. Reading today's passage reminds me that God's plan has always been to bless the earth through His people. We are to be available and usable to God, allowing Him to work through us to show His love to the world. When we yield our lives to Him, we get greater blessing than we can imagine.
Proverbs. We may never know a truly stable economy again. I am so glad that we can trust in the living God!
Your thoughts today? What about questions? We would love to hear them!
Deuteronomy. I was struck by the simplicity of verse 2 Do not add to or subtract from these commands I am giving you. Just obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you.They truth is that they DID add to the commands and made the Law a back-breaking challenge which wouldn't allow anyone to succeed. At the same time, the religious leaders created loopholes for themselves and their cronies. No wonder this passage included the promise of a coming judgment.
Luke. The account of healing the Centurion's servant is one of my favorite events in Jesus' ministry.
Psalms. Reading today's passage reminds me that God's plan has always been to bless the earth through His people. We are to be available and usable to God, allowing Him to work through us to show His love to the world. When we yield our lives to Him, we get greater blessing than we can imagine.
Proverbs. We may never know a truly stable economy again. I am so glad that we can trust in the living God!
Your thoughts today? What about questions? We would love to hear them!
Saturday, March 24, 2012
March 24
Today's Reading
Deuteronomy. If you want to expand your imagination, google "Arnon Gorge" and look at the images. What must it have been like to cross that on foot with a few million other folks? After describing in detail how Israel conquered two great kingdoms, Moses confesses how he tried to bargain with God to be able to enter the Land after all. As I get older, having spent many years in a church, I can imagine the temptation to "beg" God for another chance to see this for himself. That's what Moses did, and God doesn't seem to judge him for asking.
Luke records some of Jesus instructions for living life God's way. Which of these speaks most to you? Which is most difficult for you? I am in awe of how the people wanted to touch Him because they could feel the power flowing from Him.
Psalms. The beautiful thought of God's blessing on the earth gives us some idea of how He intended it to be. Too bad we fall so short of what this describes. Just a walk in the country with trash scattered about tells us our failure to care for what God made.
Proverbs. O God, please help me continually search for good and not evil.
What are your thoughts and questions today?
Deuteronomy. If you want to expand your imagination, google "Arnon Gorge" and look at the images. What must it have been like to cross that on foot with a few million other folks? After describing in detail how Israel conquered two great kingdoms, Moses confesses how he tried to bargain with God to be able to enter the Land after all. As I get older, having spent many years in a church, I can imagine the temptation to "beg" God for another chance to see this for himself. That's what Moses did, and God doesn't seem to judge him for asking.
Luke records some of Jesus instructions for living life God's way. Which of these speaks most to you? Which is most difficult for you? I am in awe of how the people wanted to touch Him because they could feel the power flowing from Him.
Psalms. The beautiful thought of God's blessing on the earth gives us some idea of how He intended it to be. Too bad we fall so short of what this describes. Just a walk in the country with trash scattered about tells us our failure to care for what God made.
Proverbs. O God, please help me continually search for good and not evil.
What are your thoughts and questions today?
Friday, March 23, 2012
March 23
Today's Reading
Numbers closes with the settling of another small dispute. This balances out the regulation that was earlier given regarding families who had daughters, but no sons. I am in awe of God's ways. God knew that this would happen when He set the previous rule into place. Yet He waited to clarify it until they saw it for themselves.
Deuteronomy. It took me years to understand the "why" of this book. The name means "second law." Deuteronomy was a detailed re-telling of the events that are listed (primarily) in Exodus and Leviticus. It helps me understand the purpose better by imagining Moses up on the small mountain and looking out across the Jordan River into the Promised Land. He has been told by God that he can't go there. Therefore, here he is, at the end of his days, recalling God's work and words for the past 40 years. He is like a world leader writing his memoirs. He also takes advantage of this last communication before his death to warn the people that they must follow God and not go astray.
Luke. Each of these conversations with Jesus was about conflict with religious leaders. What are your thoughts about them? What do you think about His boldness when He stood the man in front of the critics, then spoke healing to the man's hand?
Psalm 66 contains two sections that have been a part of my thinking for many years. Verses 10-12 tell God's ultimate design for our trials. Verse 18 warns about the futility of prayer if we aren't honest about our sins.
Proverbs challenges us to grow in our generosity. I want to grow in that area the rest of my life. We can be generous with God's Word. We might also face a time when we must live through a catastrophe and decide whether to share the little we have in light of these verses.
How are you doing? Would your share your thoughts and questions today?
Numbers closes with the settling of another small dispute. This balances out the regulation that was earlier given regarding families who had daughters, but no sons. I am in awe of God's ways. God knew that this would happen when He set the previous rule into place. Yet He waited to clarify it until they saw it for themselves.
Deuteronomy. It took me years to understand the "why" of this book. The name means "second law." Deuteronomy was a detailed re-telling of the events that are listed (primarily) in Exodus and Leviticus. It helps me understand the purpose better by imagining Moses up on the small mountain and looking out across the Jordan River into the Promised Land. He has been told by God that he can't go there. Therefore, here he is, at the end of his days, recalling God's work and words for the past 40 years. He is like a world leader writing his memoirs. He also takes advantage of this last communication before his death to warn the people that they must follow God and not go astray.
Luke. Each of these conversations with Jesus was about conflict with religious leaders. What are your thoughts about them? What do you think about His boldness when He stood the man in front of the critics, then spoke healing to the man's hand?
Psalm 66 contains two sections that have been a part of my thinking for many years. Verses 10-12 tell God's ultimate design for our trials. Verse 18 warns about the futility of prayer if we aren't honest about our sins.
Proverbs challenges us to grow in our generosity. I want to grow in that area the rest of my life. We can be generous with God's Word. We might also face a time when we must live through a catastrophe and decide whether to share the little we have in light of these verses.
How are you doing? Would your share your thoughts and questions today?
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
March 22, Day 81
Deuteronomy. 13 He let them ride over the highlands and feast on the crops of the fields. He nourished them with honey from the rock and olive oil from the stony ground. 14 He fed them yogurt from the herd and milk from the flock, together with the fat of lambs. He gave them choice rams from Bashan, and goats, together with the choicest wheat. You drank the finest wine, made from the juice of grapes. 15 “But Israel soon became fat and unruly; the people grew heavy, plump, and stuffed! Then they abandoned the God who had made them; they made light of the Rock of their salvation. (Deuteronomy 32:13-15 NLT) This is just like those of us who have been so blessed by God and have forgotten Him, thinking we accomplished it all ourselves.
Chapter 33 is the blessing Moses spoke to each of the tribes. Notice that his blessing is different than the one spoken by Jacob (whose twelve sons fathered the tribes) at the end of Genesis. Jacob's blessing had some barbs in it because of unfaithfulness he saw in his sons. Moses' blessings were all positive, full of hope for each group. No doubt he knew great people in each tribe and wanted the best for them all.
Chapter 34 was obviously written by someone other than Moses. Perhaps it was Joshua. Jude 1:9 (New Testament) says that that Michael the archangel fought with the devil over the body of Moses. Mysterious indeed!
Psalms 91. I am not sure why the arranger of this chronology included this Psalm here. In my brief research, I don't see evidence that it was written by Moses. Nonetheless, it is a beautiful and powerful Psalm about God's protection.
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