The LORD hath delivered into our hands all the land

Bible Reading: Joshua 2; Psalm 123-125; Isaiah 62; Matthew 10

And they said unto Joshua, Truly the LORD hath delivered into our hands all the land; for even all the inhabitants of the country do faint because of us. (Joshua 2:24)

Joshua sent two men into Jericho to spy out the city and bring back a report before they invaded the land of Canaan. These men entered into the city and met a harlot named Rahab whose house was located on the city wall. As they talked with her they gathered a very important piece of intelligence – the people were terrified of the Israelites. Now the Israelites were a large group of people, but they were by no means a formidable military force. However, God had gone before them and they had defeated the Amorites on the other side of the Jordan as well as the giant Og, king of Bashan. This news had reached the inhabitants of Jericho and the people were terrified of Israel.

And she [Rahab] said unto the men, I know that the LORD hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you. For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed. (Joshua 2:9-10)

God is so faithful! He had put a fear of Israel in the hearts of the Canaanites and was preparing them to be defeated by his people. Not only that, but before Moses died, he had informed the people that this is exactly what God would do:

And all people of the earth shall see that thou art called by the name of the LORD; and they shall be afraid of thee. (Deuteronomy 28:10)

God knows the end from the beginning. He promised to give Israel victory and he made sure that they had a report that the enemy was afraid of Israel. What battles do you face? Do you know that God goes before you? If you are led by God's Spirit, you will walk victorious! He knows the end from the beginning and here is what he says:

But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57)

For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. (1 John 5:4)

Victory in Jesus!

In Christ,

Rody

 

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills

Bible Reading: Joshua 1; Psalms 120-122; Isaiah 61; Matthew 9

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. (Psalms 121:1-2)

"Keep your eye on the ball." How many times did you hear that as a kid? It is important where you put your eyes! If you are going to hit a baseball, you have to have your eye on the ball. If your eyes are focused on the pitcher or on your feet, you are going to miss. With that in mind, how important is it to keep your eyes on the LORD? This Psalm is a reminder that our help does not come from man it comes from the LORD. If you were standing in a valley and you were expecting help to arrive, it would have to come from over the hills. That is where your eyes should be focused!

What do we do about lying preachers? Lift up your eyes unto the hills!

What do we do about dry weather conditions? Lift up your eyes unto the hills!

What do we do about corrupt politicians? Lift up your eyes unto the hills!

The list goes on and on… The help that you need comes from your Creator! There is nothing that he cannot do! There is no problem that he cannot fix! There is nothing that happens that he does not see.

He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. (Psalms 121:3-6)

When you take a stand for Jesus Christ, the Lord will not allow your foot to be moved. He can give you the boldness and courage to life for him in a world of lies and apostasy! He keeps your soul and unlike men, God does not sleep. He is a sentry that guards your life and he will never go to sleep on the job! There is nothing in heaven or on earth that can hurt you when the Lord is keeping you.

The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. (Psalms 121:7-8)

If you are trusting in the Lord, you are immortal. He promises to keep you from evil and preserve you. So what are you anxious about? What do you need help with? Keep your eyes on hills; the Lord is coming to your help!

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2)

In Christ,

Rody

Like a lost sheep

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 33-34; Psalm 119:145-176; Isaiah 60; Matthew 8

I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments. (Psalms 119:176)

The last verse of the longest Psalm is a confession of sin by David. Do you confess your sin to God? In the life of this shepherd king, he had gone looking for many lost sheep. He knew the dangers to a little lamb that strayed away from the flock. A lamb is tiny and there are many predators that would devour such a small, helpless creature. Wolves, eagles, and lions are always hungry and seeking for a little lamb to devour. The Bible uses the metaphor of God's people being sheep and straying away from him.

All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. (Isaiah 53:6)

Are you in a vulnerable position? Are you straying away from Jesus the good shepherd and his flock? When David strayed, he knew it. He realized that he was not where he should be because he knew God's Word. Even though his life was not where it ought to be, he had the Word of God to let him know the path that he should be on.

Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. (Psalms 119:11)

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalms 119:105)

Do you know God's Word so that you know when you are straying away from where the Lord Jesus wants you to be? The Word hidden in the heart of a believer is a map to avoid sin and run hard toward God. The Word is a light to the path we are to follow. If you know the Word, when you stray from it you will know it. You will be rebuked by the Holy Spirit as he points out to you that you are not following God's Word.

When David realized he had strayed, he first confessed this to God and then he asked God to seek him. He wanted the Shepherd to come and get him.

How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? (Matthew 18:12)

Jesus comes looking for lost sheep. Are you one of his sheep? Are you straying from the path? Confess and ask him to get you where you need to be!

In Christ,

Rody

Ask

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 32; Psalm 119:121-144; Isaiah 59; Matthew 7

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. (Matthew 7:7-8)

What are you asking God for right now? Jesus tells us to ask for the things we need. He also promises that the one who asks will receive. Do you ask God for things? What kind of things do you ask God for?

Some people say that prayer does not change things, it changes us. I suppose there is some truth in that, but the very CLEAR teaching of Scripture is that if you do not ask God for some things, you will not have those things.

…yet ye have not, because ye ask not. (James 4:2b)

So we are commanded and invited to ask God for the things we need. Do you ask God for selfish things? The Bible teaches us that our selfish motives will not be rewarded by God through answered prayer.

Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. (James 4:3)

God is not a coke machine. He does not simply give you every petty, selfish thing that you want. He is a wise and loving Father that knows what you need before you ask him.

…your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. (Matthew 6:8)

As a follower of Jesus, what do you have that is not in answer to believing prayer? Is there something you need? Jesus says, "Ask for it." What are you looking for? Seek for it and ye shall find it. Is a door closed to you? Knock on it and it will be opened. These are very precious promises to the follower of Jesus that remind us that we are needy children who rely upon our loving heavenly Father to give us the things that we need. We so want to be self-sufficient, but when we read the Word of God we are reminded of how limited and needy we are. Now we must add one more thing to our asking…faith.

But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. (James 1:6-7)

When we ask we must believe that God will answer our prayer. Where does faith come from?

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (Romans 10:17)

What has God promised in his Word that you need and do not have? Are you asking for it? Are you knocking on the door? Are you seeking for those things that are within the will of God for you? Then trust him and you shall have them!

In Christ,

Rody

Is not this the fast that I have chosen

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 31; Psalm 119:97-120; Isaiah 58; Matthew 6

Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? (Isaiah 58:6-7)

The ancient Israelites were 'going through the motions' with their relationship with God. They were fasting ritually and then asking God why he did not see their piety and reward them. They were not fasting for the right reasons.

Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours. Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. (Isaiah 58:3-4)

The Lord tells us in his Word that the fast has chosen is one to loose the bands of wickedness and to undo heavy burdens. The fast that God chooses is one which involves spiritual warfare. The right fast is to let the oppressed go free and to break every yoke. What does this mean? Well, Jesus taught his disciples on one occasion that the reason they were unsuccessful in casting out a demon was that they had not prayed and fasted for the boy's release.

Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting. (Matthew 17:19-21)

Fasting is also meant for us to go without so we can help others. To deal bread to the hungry and clothe the naked is the end result of fasting. Do you fast? Is fasting for the New Testament Christian? I believe that it is and is a powerful tool when coupled with prayer and servant hood.

Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. (Matthew 6:16)

Jesus did not say, "If you fast…", he said, "WHEN you fast…". He expected his disciples to fast. We need to understand that God is not impressed with empty ritual. He wants us to fast in humility and faith so our voices will be heard on high.

In Christ,

Rody

Peace peace

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 30; Psalm 119:73-96; Isaiah 57; Matthew 5

I create the fruit of the lips; Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, saith the LORD; and I will heal him. But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked. (Isaiah 57:19-21)

Do you have peace? The peace that God is speaking of here is the shalom of Jehovah. This peace means rest, happiness, safety, welfare, friendliness, health and favor. It is a genuinely good place to dwell in the protection and provision of God. God here says that he creates the fruit of the lips that says, "Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near." Words are the fruit of lips and God creates the words that come from mouths declaring peace to others. What kind of words are coming from your lips? Do you declare, "Peace, peace," to others?

The fruit of the lips come from the abundance of the heart. So what you declare will come from your heart. What is in your heart? Jesus said:

A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh. (Luke 6:45)

Is peace and goodness coming from your heart? If it is it is created by God. If you are bringing forth that which is evil, it comes from your old sinful heart.

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. (Hebrews 13:15-16)

The fruit of our lips is thanksgiving to God in praise for what he has done for us. The Bible tells us this is the sacrifice that God is well pleased with. Do you offer this sacrifice to God? Do you allow thanksgiving to flow out of your mouth for the goodness and bounty that God has shown you? Do you tell others of the peace they can have when they trust in the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ?

Can you see the contrast between those who have peace and the wicked? The wicked are like a troubled sea. The waters cannot rest but cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace to the wicked. What is your soul like? Is it a peaceful high mountain lake that is like a mirror lying between the beautiful mountains? Or is it like a hurricane tormented ocean?

The only way to have peace is to come to Jesus and trust him with every issue of life.

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)

In Christ,

Rody

When the tempter came to him

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 29; Psalm 119:49-72; Isaiah 56; Matthew 4

And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. (Matthew 4:3-4)

At a most vulnerable time physically, mentally and emotionally, the devil came to tempt Jesus. Jesus had fasted for forty days and forty nights and was hungry. Then came Satan with three temptations. These three temptations are the areas of temptation that we all face. They come to us from the world and not from God.

For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. (1 John 2:16)

Satan tempted Jesus with the lust of the flesh when he told him to prove that he was the Son of God by turning the stones into bread. Would Jesus let his physical hunger cause him to perform parlor tricks for the devil? No, he would not. Instead, he used the sword of the Word of God to counter all the devil's temptations. What good is physical life without spiritual life? Jesus would be fed upon God's Word!

Next, the pride of life was tempted as he told Jesus to jump from the high point of the temple and let everyone see angels come catch him before he hit the ground. Never! Jesus would not presume upon the Father. He would live in obedience to the Father.

Finally, the lust of the eyes was tempted with having all the kingdoms of the world. Jesus knew if he waited upon the Father's plan he would rule them all with a rod of iron. According to the devil all he had to do was worship Satan. He flatly refused the offer once again countering with the Word of God. Only worship God! With this final cut of the Word of God Satan left him, defeated. Jesus was victorious over the devils temptations. Jesus was victorious in these areas of temptation because there is no sin in him.

For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. (Hebrews 4:15)

When the tempter comes to you call upon your high priest. He is victorious and he can give you the grace to stand strong in the battle. You are not without weapons and help! King Jesus, the victorious one is always there to help you overcome by faith. He is the victorious one – trust him!

In Christ,

Rody

I will walk at liberty

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 28:20-68; Psalm 119:25-48; Isaiah 55; Matthew 3

And I will walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts. (Psalms 119:45)

Do you want to walk at liberty? In other words, do you want to be free from being a slave? So many people think since they are free to do whatever they want that they are free. That is not true! A person who sins is a slave to sin.

Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. (John 8:34)

This Psalm teaches us that a person who wants to be free or walk at liberty will be one who seeks God's precepts. The precepts of God are his ways and teachings. When you seek diligently in the Word of God to know the mind and heart of God, you will walk at liberty. Liberty is not freedom to do whatever you want. Liberty is freedom to live for God. A lost person is not free. They are a slave to sin. You and I have a choice. We can either be servants of sin or we can be servants of righteousness.

Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. (Romans 6:16-18)

Who do you obey? Do you obey sin and self? If you do you are a servant of sin. But through the blood of Jesus Christ, you can be set free from sin and become a servant of righteousness. The servant of righteousness is the one who walks at liberty!

You might see a person who says and does whatever they want. They are not free. They are duped by the devil into believing they are, but they are serving the sin that they run so hard to. Being free means being a servant of God and to others.

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)

For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. (Galatians 5:13-14)

Are you free to serve or are you looking to be served? Seek God's precepts and you will walk at liberty and be free to serve others in love.

In Christ,

Rody

All the words of this law

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 27-28:19; Psalm 119:1-24; Isaiah 54; Matthew 2

Cursed be he that confirmeth not all the words of this law to do them. And all the people shall say, Amen. (Deuteronomy 27:26)

The law that God gave to Israel through Moses contained a curse with it. They were under a curse if they did not confirm to do ALL the words of the law. Have you kept all the words of the law of God? All of the law?...

This means that if you keep most of them, you are cursed. But most people settle for about 51% righteousness when it comes to God. They reason that they have done their best, however, God says ALL. That means that God requires perfection! God wants 100% righteousness from us. Can you give God perfection?

The New Testament confirms this teaching:

Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. (Romans 3:19-20)

God's law causes the entire world to be guilty before God. It stops the mouth of our argument because God says, "Do all the law," and I say, "I have done my best." So the Bible tells us that by deeds of the law no one will be justified in God's sight. The law teaches us that we are sinners.

For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. (James 2:10)

If you do your best, but cannot do ALL the law, you are guilty of ALL the law! The law condemns us because God requires moral perfection from us. Can you give God moral perfection? No. So what will we do?

For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: (Galatians 3:10-13)

There is only one morally perfect man – Jesus Christ. He kept all the law of God perfectly. He became a curse for us by hanging on the cross. He shed his blood to redeem us from the curse of the law. If you try to keep the law, you will fail. You must trust Christ who died to redeem you! Trust him.

In Christ,

Rody

Jesus Christ the son of David

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 26; Psalms 117 & 118; Isaiah 53; Matthew 1

And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram; (Matthew 1:3) And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse; (Matthew 1:5) And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias; (Matthew 1:6)

There are four women listed in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in Matthew 1. It is interesting that not all the women of this genealogy are listed, but these four only.

Thamar was the wife of Er, Judah's firstborn son. The Bible tells us that Er was wicked and the Lord slew him. The next brother of Er was Onan and he was to marry Thamar and raise up a child for Er. But he would not.

And Onan knew that the seed should not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in unto his brother's wife, that he spilled it on the ground, lest that he should give seed to his brother. And the thing which he did displeased the LORD: wherefore he slew him also. (Genesis 38:9-10)

Judah promised Thamar that when the next son was old enough, he would be her husband, but nothing ever came of it. Apparently, Judah was not willing to give her another son because they kept dying. So Thamar disguised herself as a harlot and sat by the way she knew Judah would go. He hired her and went in unto her. When she knew that she would conceive, she had taken a token from him and she used it to prove that he was the father of her twin boys.

Rachab is Rahab the harlot who hid the spies in Jericho when Israel invaded Canaan.

Ruth is a Moabite that became the wife of Boaz, the great-grandmother of King David.

Urias' wife was Bathsheba and David committed adultery with her then had her husband put in a place in battle where he was sure to die.

This sounds like a soap opera, doesn't it! It surely doesn't sound like a group of people who would be the lineage of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! And yet, God is careful to include these women in the lineage of Jesus Christ for us. Why? Because God can make something good out of something bad! God made a covenant with Abraham to bring forth the seed – Jesus Christ from his descendants. If God does not use sinful people in his purposes, he will have no one to work with! What about you? Have you thought your past made you useless to God? Just think about these circumstances God used to bring the Messiah into the world. God can use you if you will surrender to him! He will forgive you. He will cleanse you! Trust him!

In Christ,

Rody

The nations of them which are saved

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 24; Psalms 114 & 115; Isaiah 51; Revelation 21

And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it. (Revelation 21:24)

The Bible tells us about the heavenly city, the New Jerusalem which descends out of heaven to the new earth that God has made. The Lord Jesus allowed John to see a vision of this city and he recorded it for us in the Bible. This is our future home! There will be no sun there because the Lamb will be the light of the city. This is a place where there is nothing that defiles.

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life. (Revelation 21:27)

Only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life are allowed to enter this city. In a couple of verses here we see that to be saved is to have your name written in the Lamb's book of life. Notice please that the only nations in the city are them which are saved. (The King James Version is the only one that says this. All the newer versions say all nations walk in the light of it.) Are you saved? Is your name written in the Lamb's book of life? Will you walk in the light of the holy Jerusalem? Paul knew that some of his friends' names were written in the book of life:

And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life. (Philippians 4:3)

Only those who are saved shall walk in the light of Jesus in the New Jerusalem. There will be nothing that defiles there. There will be no abominations there. There will be no lies there.

This is the definition of those who are written in the Lamb's book of life. This is what someone will be like who is saved. Aren't you glad that someday all sin will be totally gone from your life? What an amazing thought! Satan will not be there in that city to tempt and accuse the brethren. Your flesh will have been dealt with because you will have a new body like Jesus' body! The world will have been judged and all its lusts will be gone.

This is what we have to look forward to. No president, congress or political party can bring this about! Only King Jesus can make all things new. Trust him! Walk with him! Listen to him!

In Christ,

Rody

I was not rebellious

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy23; Psalm 112 & 113; Isaiah 50; Revelation 20

The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned. The Lord GOD hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away back. (Isaiah 50:4-5)

Here in the prophecy of Isaiah is a word concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. As the prophet is giving us the word of God he changes voice at this point and we hear the perspective of Jesus in his earthly ministry. He says that the Lord God has given him the tongue of the learned. Do you remember the reaction when people heard Jesus teach?

And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. (Matthew 7:28-29)

The officers answered, Never man spake like this man. (John 7:46)

Jesus knew how to speak a word in season to him that is weary. The word he spoke was one of invitation:

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)

The Father would wake the son each morning and give him the ability to hear wisdom. Jesus was not rebellious when he heard the wisdom of God and he did not turn back from it. He obeyed completely.

Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. (1 Peter 2:22-24)

Jesus did not turn away back from what the Father had sent him to do. He willingly suffered for our sins.

I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting. (Isaiah 50:6)

Isaiah told us 700 years early what it would be like! Smiting with a scourge; pulling out the hair of his beard and the shame of people spitting on him. How did the King of Glory endure such treatment?

For the Lord GOD will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed. (Isaiah 50:7)

Jesus knew that the Father would help him and so he was not confounded. He set his face like flint knowing that he would not be ashamed, but would be raised from the dead! Because Jesus was not rebellious, you can have eternal life! Praise him!

In Christ,

Rody

A bird’s nest

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 22; Psalm 110-111; Isaiah 49; Revelation 19

If a bird's nest chance to be before thee in the way in any tree, or on the ground, whether they be young ones, or eggs, and the dam sitting upon the young, or upon the eggs, thou shalt not take the dam with the young: But thou shalt in any wise let the dam go, and take the young to thee; that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest prolong thy days. (Deuteronomy 22:6-7)

What a strange command in the Word of God! Why would the Lord give such specific instructions regarding bird's nests? The answer lies in the compassion and mercy of our God. He cares for the lives of all his creatures. He most especially cares for the crown of his creation – man. If we do not know how to treat animals, we will lose out in the end because we will destroy our own compassionate soul and we will destroy our food supply.

First, the compassionate soul would not destroy a family of creatures all at one time. Let the dam go. She will lay more eggs and have more young. Take the eggs or the young ones for food. God commanded Noah to take the parents of this bird on the ark so that all creatures could once again repopulate the earth after the flood. Every time you see an animal, you are looking at a creature that God designed. If you are cruel to an animal, you are a not a compassionate person.

A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. (Proverbs 12:10)

God looks at the way you treat animals. The righteous man cares about the life of his beast. If you are cruel to animals, you are cruel.

Second, if you destroy both dam and her young, very soon there will be no birds left. We should not destroy animals in that way. God has given us the animals to eat. Eating animals is not cruel. Mistreating them or completely killing off an entire family is.

Every moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you; even as the green herb have I given you all things. (Genesis 9:3)

For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. (1 Timothy 4:4-5)

God takes care of all his creatures:

Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? (Matthew 6:26)

Our Father in heaven cares for animals. We should too. But never forget that we are much better than the animals. God is no radical environmentalist that gives animals more rights than people. Jesus died on the cross to show you the love of God. People are much better than animals according to Jesus.

In Christ,

Rody

Hear ye this

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 21; Psalm 108-109; Isaiah 48; Revelation 18

Hear ye this, O house of Jacob, which are called by the name of Israel, and are come forth out of the waters of Judah, which swear by the name of the LORD, and make mention of the God of Israel, but not in truth, nor in righteousness. (Isaiah 48:1)

God in his Word has brought many indictments upon his own people. Here he brings the indictment of hypocrisy. They are called by the name of God's people – Israel. These people used the name of God, but they did not do it in truth or righteousness. They were religious and ritualistic but they were not genuine. They were outwardly Jews, but inwardly they were pagans. Could this happen today? Absolutely! Jesus says:

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (Matthew 7:21-23)

Just because you call yourself a follower of Jesus Christ does not mean that you are one. Jesus said there will be those who call him 'Lord' but do not do the will of the Father. These same people will be preachers and will have done wonderful works in the name of Jesus, but they are not saved. Jesus says he will profess to them that he NEVER knew them. How can this be? They have not truly done the will of the Father.

Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. (John 6:29)

There are many who profess Christ but do not possess Christ. They have never received him as the only way to God. They make mention of God but not in truth nor in righteousness. The Bible says:

They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. (Titus 1:16)

Is Christ your only hope? Is he your life? Then let him live his life in you. Don't be like Israel! They used the name of God but not in truth or righteousness. A disciple of Jesus Christ is a completely new person!

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

What does the NEW look like in YOU? It always looks like Jesus!

In Christ,

Rody

Let the redeemed of the LORD say so

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 20; Psalm 107; Isaiah 47; Revelation 17

Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy; (Psalms 107:2)

Israel had been redeemed by the mighty hand of God from the bondage they were subject to in Egypt. In other words they were set free from their slavery and bondage. This Psalm remembers the mighty acts of God that he wrought for the children of Israel. It is cyclical in that it shows how the Israelites got into trouble and then:

Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses. (Psalms 107:6)

This phrase is repeated four times in the Psalm. As we look to the nation of Israel we see a marvelous example of how God deals with his covenant people. They were not especially righteous. As a matter of fact, they repeatedly dealt with idolatry and had a hard time following God. Yet, he continually listened to their prayers and delivered them. God had bound himself with an oath to Abraham saying he would bless his descendants and again with David saying he would be with the kings of Judah and God was faithful to those covenants!

This Psalm is a strong reminder to remember the mighty acts of God and to encourage us that:

Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! (Psalms 107:8)

Have you been redeemed by the precious blood of God's lamb, Jesus?

Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: (1 Peter 1:18-19)

Have you been set free from the bondage of sin though faith in Jesus Christ?

Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. (Romans 6:18)

If this is true of you, then say so! Tell people of the marvelous works of the Almighty God. Tell of the redemption that you have through the blood of Jesus Christ. Open wide your mouth and declare that you have been redeemed and that others can be redeemed as well. 'Whosoever will' may have redemption through Jesus Christ.

But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 1:30-31)

Let's glory in the Lord for he has done marvelous things!

In Christ,

Rody

There is none like me

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 19; Psalm 106; Isaiah 46; Revelation 16

Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, (Isaiah 46:9)

Through the prophet Isaiah these are the words of our God. We are instructed to remember the former things of old. Remember what God has done. He is the Creator and Redeemer. He has done miraculous things like send the flood in Noah's day and bring the Israelites out of Egypt in the Exodus. He has sent his angels before his people to fight their battles. There is none else! There is no other god. There are many devilish impersonators, but there is no other God. There is none like our God.

He is wholly different and 'other' than us. Even though we are created in his image, he is the holy, holy, holy Lord God Almighty! When you think of God, you must think rightly about him. You must be guided in your thinking by his Word so that you don't make an idol in your own mind. The disciples of Jesus wanted for Jesus to show them the Father. They like all people want to see what God looks like. However, God tells us not to make graven images.

Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: (Exodus 20:4)

So Jesus told his disciples:

Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? (John 14:9)

There is no one like Jesus. He and the Father are one. Whatever you do, don't think of Jesus as a moral teacher. Don't think of Jesus as a miracle working holy man. Don't put him in the same category with Buddha, Mohammed, or Apollo. He is not like them! He is not like Moses or Elijah. He is the LORD!

For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; (Hebrews 7:26)

Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: (1 Peter 2:22)

Jesus is the 'only begotten' Son of God. He is absolutely unique. There is no comparison. When you think of Jesus, think of him rightly. When you talk of Jesus, tell people there is no one like him!

In Christ,

Rody

The abominations of those nations

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 18; Psalm 105; Isaiah 45; Reelation15

When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations. (Deuteronomy 18:9)

The Canaanite tribes were idolaters and communicated with devils. The offered sacrifices to false gods which the Bible says are devils:

But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils. (1 Corinthians 10:20)

God told the Israelites not to learn to do after these abominations. God does not want his people learning the ways of false worship. Is it surprising in our day that so few actually worship the Father in Spirit and in truth as his word instructs? Just as the Israelites of old, many today have tried to mingle a little Bible with heathen religion. The result is an abomination to God. Here are some of the practices that the Canaanites were involved with:

There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. (Deuteronomy 18:10-11)

Making a son or daughter pass through the fire was a form of child sacrifice by burning!

Divination is trying to predict the future using occult means or magic. Modern examples would be 'water-witching' or tying a wedding ring on a string and holding it over a pregnant woman's stomach trying to determine the sex of a child.

An observer of times is an astrologer who trys to predict the future by horoscopes – you can read this in any newspaper in America daily!

An enchanter is one who casts spells.

A witch is a person who practices magic. How 'bout those Harry Potter books?

A charmer is another form of spell-casting.

A consulter with familiar spirits is one who makes contact with the spirit world and gains information from spirit entities. This is the basis for most indigenous religions around the world, including Native American Spiritism.

A wizard is a conjurer or one who uses sorcery and magic.

A necromancer is one who supposedly makes contact with the dead.

All of these practices are an abomination to God. He does not want his children to even learn these ways. We are to have nothing to do with them. Now think of our day with children's cartoons glorifying occult practices and teenagers fascinated with vampire movies like Twilight! Harry Potter books are incredibly popular. Follower of Christ, have nothing to do with these practices!

Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:19-21)

The occult is no place for a believer to be dabbling!

In Christ,

Rody

All the people shall hear and fear

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 17; Psalm 104; Isaiah 44; Revelation 14

And the man that will do presumptuously, and will not hearken unto the priest that standeth to minister there before the LORD thy God, or unto the judge, even that man shall die: and thou shalt put away the evil from Israel. And all the people shall hear, and fear, and do no more presumptuously. (Deuteronomy 17:12-13)

Capital punishment is God's plan in the scriptures. If the law has no teeth, it will do no good. However, the law is not something that man has made up; it is that which came from our Creator. Beware of men who make laws! Look to the Word of God and see that God has given us the basis for all human law in his Holy Word. When Moses reminded the people about the law, he made a provision for situations that were too difficult for them to handle among themselves. In these instances, they were to go to the priests or the judges and let them arbitrate in the matter. When the matter was taken to the priests or the judges, and the offending party would not listen to them, the punishment was death.

If we look closely at God's Word, the death penalty was instituted during the days of Noah. After the flood, God delegated human government into the hands of Noah to be carried out by men. They were to heed God's Word and implement it into human society.

And surely your blood of your lives will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it, and at the hand of man; at the hand of every man's brother will I require the life of man. Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man. (Genesis 9:5-6)

The life of mankind is precious in God's sight. A beast that killed a man must die. A man that murdered a man must die. Notice please that God says the offending party shall have his blood shed by man. This means that God gave the law, but mankind was to carry out the sentence. This is not vigilante justice nor is it inhumane. It is that form of government that God intended man to live by. Notice in Deuteronomy that the Bible says when a man is executed justly that all the people shall hear and fear and do no more presumptuously.

When a man commits a crime worthy of death and he dies at the hands of justice, it is a STRONG deterrent to anyone else who might want to do the same. God's word says so! As you pray and vote, please know that capital punishment for murder is Biblical! As followers of Jesus we should be merciful and compassionate, but we must not throw out God's Word. The New Testament uses the image of a sword to illustrate human government's authority.

For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. (Romans 13:4)

Human government must execute wrath on those who do evil or that government is NOT good!

In Christ,

Rody

As far as the east is from the west

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 16; Psalm 103; Isaiah 43; Revelation 13

As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. (Psalms 103:12)

I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. (Isaiah 43:25)

Do you know why the Bible says God has removed our transgressions as far as the east is from the west? If he had said as far as the north is from the south, you would eventually meet yours sins again. Think about the 'circle of the earth' (Isaiah 40:22). If you take off headed north, you will eventually go over the North Pole and then you would be headed south. But, if you head east, you will go around and around and never meet west! God tells us this for a purpose. He wants you to know that when he removes your sins, they are gone! You will never see them again.

Do you know the grace of having your sins removed? Do you know the wonderful reality of having your transgressions blotted out? Why would God do this? Some people think God owes it to them to forgive them. However, God owes us nothing. If he gave us what we deserve for our sins, he would send us all to hell. However, the Bible says he does it for his own sake. He forgives for the sake of himself. Now our God is a tri-unity and once we come to the New Testament, we learn that God forgives us for the sake of Jesus Christ.

In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; (Ephesians 1:7)

It is for the sake of Jesus Christ's shed blood that God graciously forgives us our transgressions and chooses to not remember our sins anymore! Oh, Thank you Jesus for your shed blood! Thank you God for the forgiveness we can have in Christ. We do not deserve it and we cannot buy it. We must believe and receive it from God alone!

Can't you just see that ledger where all your sins were written down? Now watch as God takes his ink bottle and with the red blood of Jesus, he blots out all record of our sins so he will not remember than anymore.

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; (Acts 3:19)

All your sins can be forgotten forever if you will repent and trust in Jesus Christ! Now that's good news!

In Christ,

Rody

He shall prevail against his enemies

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 15; Psalm 102; Isaiah 42; Revelation 12

The LORD shall go forth as a mighty man, he shall stir up jealousy like a man of war: he shall cry, yea, roar; he shall prevail against his enemies. (Isaiah 42:13)

How do you see Jesus? Be careful, you can become an idolater so don't form a false image of him. Whatever you do, don't go for the long haired, blued eyed picture hanging on many walls! Do you see him as a limp-wristed, effeminate man looking toward heaven? Man, those paintings make me sick! Jesus was a carpenter – he was a strong man. Not only that but when he returns, we will come forth as a mighty man of war!

The LORD is a man of war: the LORD is his name. (Exodus 15:3)

Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. (Psalms 24:8)

Gird thy sword upon thy thigh, O most mighty, with thy glory and thy majesty. (Psalms 45:3)

The Bible tells us that he shall stir up jealousy like a man of war. He will cry out with a battle cry and he will prevail against his enemies! The Revelation gives us an accurate portrait of the Lord Jesus Christ.

And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. (Revelation 19:11-16)

Isaiah is looking forward to the same day John saw. You and I have not seen this day yet, but it is coming. King Jesus is a mighty man of war! He will consume his enemies with the sword. All those who hate the Lord will have to face him someday.

Aren't you glad that the paintings are wrong? Aren't you glad that King Jesus is a mighty man? He is with you always and will protect and keep you. Trust in him!

In Christ,

Rody

I will behave myself in a perfect way

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 13-14; Psalms 99 – 101; Isaiah 41; Revelation 11

I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. (Psalms 101:2)

This is a Psalm of dedication from David. He is dedicating himself to God and committing to walking in a perfect way. When the Bible speaks of being 'perfect' it does not be sinless, it means entire, complete or whole. This is the declaration of God to Abraham:

And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. (Genesis 17:1)

Notice the place where David says it is important for him to walk with a perfect heart – within his own house. If the Christian life does not work at home, it does not work! If you 'act' right in front of others, but 'let down your guard' at home, you are not walking with Jesus. David knew that God sees all things and he did not just want to put on an outward show. He wanted his walk with God to be genuine so that he walked with integrity in his home. He says he will be careful what he looks upon:

I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. (Psalms 101:3)

David did not even want to look upon something wicked. If we are going to walk with integrity in our homes, we need to be careful what sort of programming we set before our eyes on the television. No one knows what you do in your own home, right? Wrong, God knows and he wants you to be perfect. Your family also knows what you are like at home and spouses and children can be damaged greatly by hypocrisy.

There are those who 'turn aside' from following God. David said he hated that work and would not let it 'cleave' to him. Wickedness has a way of being like tar. If you get near it you can get it all over you and it is hard to get off once you get it on you! Beware of the friends you have. They can drag you down.

Is your walk with Christ genuine? Do you walk with Christ when no one is watching? Is your walk with Christ a relationship or is it a series of things you do? For some they try to replace a relationship with Christian activity. That's not what Jesus wants. He wants you to know him and love him. He wants all of you to be his. Surrender to him today!

In Christ,

Rody

Mount up with wings as eagles

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 12; Psalms 97 & 98; Isaiah 40; Revelation 10

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

Do you feel as if life is just too much for you? Are you overwhelmed with a difficult situation right now? What do you do when you feel that circumstances are just too big for you to be able to handle and the load is too great to bear?

The prophet Isaiah reminds us that God never gets tired!

Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. (Isaiah 40:28)

You start by getting your eyes fixed on Jesus. He does not faint and he does not grow weary. He has a plan and he is working out his purposes in the earth. Isaiah also tells us that God will give power and strength to us who need it.

He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. (Isaiah 40:29)

And you say, "Ok, Lord, I am ready. I need your strength and your power to handle the day!" What do you do now?

You wait upon the LORD! "Wait!?" Yes, wait. When the Bible tells us to wait it is speaking of expectant hope that God will come through. It is hard to see when you are walking through the valley of the shadow of death. But if you wait upon the LORD, he will give you the wings of an eagle so you can soar up high enough to get a perspective closer to God's view. God can see the end of the valley and he will give you a fresh vision of what he wants to do in your life.

The desert saps the strength out of the weary traveler. God will renew the strength to continue to travel and like a young man, you will want to run to quickly get to your destination. God's strength will enable you to continue the journey running when necessary and walking with endurance to the end.

Can you hear the precious promise from the Word of God? Don't you need that kind of renewed strength? Don't you need a new perspective on life? Don't give up. Wait upon the LORD. Pray and trust him to answer with strength from on high. His Spirit will give you what is necessary.

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (Philippians 4:13)

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:58)

In Christ,

Rody

Good is the word of the LORD

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 11; Psalm 95 & 96; Isaiah 39; Revelation 9

Then said Hezekiah to Isaiah, Good is the word of the LORD which thou hast spoken. He said moreover, For there shall be peace and truth in my days. (Isaiah 39:8)

God had done a miraculous thing in causing the sundial to move backward to show Hezekiah a sign that he would be healed. Then God told Isaiah what poultice to make to heal Hezekiah's illness. God gave Hezekiah another fifteen years of life because he prayed and asked God for mercy. It was not long after this that Hezekiah allowed the court of Babylon to see all the treasures of the Temple and of his royal residence. Why did he do that? Was he bragging at the wealth of Judah? Was he trying to impress these men?

Whatever his reasons, God told him that they would have all that they saw. Here is a prophetic declaration from God of the Babylonian captivity. Not only that, but God said the Babylonians would take Hezekiah's sons and they would become eunuchs in the courts of Babylon. Hezekiah was a man living on borrowed time and he takes his sentence with a submissive heart. "Good is the word of the LORD," he says.

It is interesting to contrast this submissive attitude toward God's word with the reaction to Isaiah's announcement made earlier.

In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live. Then Hezekiah turned his face toward the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, And said, Remember now, O LORD, I beseech thee, how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore. (Isaiah 38:1-3)

When Hezekiah learned he was to die soon, he did not take God's word as final, but prayed and begged God to change his decree. Later when he learned that he would have peace and truth but the judgment would come later he said that was good. It seems to me that Hezekiah should have been concerned about what would happen in his sons' days. Is it a good attitude to be content with peace in my day knowing calamity will come to my children? Shall I spend now until there is laid up debt for my children to try and repay?

Why did Hezekiah not beseech God as fervently with this word as he did with the earlier word from God? We can only speculate. We should not only be praying about the condition of the land in our days, but for those of our children. The Bible says:

A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just. (Proverbs 13:22)

Are we praying for the days of our children and grandchildren?

In Christ,

Rody

It is a good thing

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 9; Psalms 92 &93; Isaiah 37; Revelation 7

A Psalm or Song for the sabbath day. It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: (Psalms 92:1)

The heading to Psalm 92 tells us that it is a Song for the Sabbath day. This Psalm was specifically written for a person to reflect on God as the work-a-day week ended and the rest day began. We need to take time out of our busy work and play schedules to give thanks unto the LORD. When we thank about righteousness and holiness in our lives, we should be a grateful people. The Bible reminds us that it is good to give thanks unto the LORD.

I feel sorry for pagans, atheists and lukewarm, bench warming Christians at Thanksgiving time. Here a nation pauses to give thanks, but to whom? If you don't believe in the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who are you going to thank? Not only that, but it is a good thing to sing praises unto the name of God. When you let your heart overflow with gratitude for who God is and what he has done for us, the Bible says, let a song flow from that. One of many appropriate forms of worship is to sing praises to the name of God.

For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands. O LORD, how great are thy works! and thy thoughts are very deep. (Psalms 92:4-5)

If you reflect for just a moment on what the Lord has done, you will realize how great his works are and it will make you glad! Doesn't it do your heart good to look at God's creative work and contemplate how intricate physical life on this planet is? It is good to reflect on these things and let that flow out in praise to God.

A brutish man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this. (Psalms 92:6)

The brutish man is a man who thinks and acts like a beast rather than a man. He is a fool and does not understand gratitude to God or praise for what God has done. One of the great works that God has done is the work of redemption that Jesus Christ wrought for us on the cross. The wicked do not understand nor believe this.

When the wicked spring as the grass, and when all the workers of iniquity do flourish; it is that they shall be destroyed for ever: (Psalms 92:7)

There is a difference made between men on this earth. There are those who believe and those who do not believe in Jesus Christ. If you believe, do you take time out to reflect on God's goodness and praise his Holy name? It is a good thing!

In Christ,

Rody

The LORD said unto me

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 8; Psalm 91; Isaiah 36; Revelation 6

And am I now come up without the LORD against this land to destroy it? the LORD said unto me, Go up against this land, and destroy it. (Isaiah 36:10)

These words were spoken by the Rabshakeh of King Sennacherib when he was sent to Jerusalem to besiege the city. As he stood without the city walls, he addressed the people that were on the wall and told them that there was no hope of fighting against the mighty Assyrian army. Everyone he had come up against he had conquered. He was on orders from his king to offer terms of surrender to the Jews living in Jerusalem. He spoke in perfect Hebrew and all the people heard him say that their God – Jehovah had sent him!

Was this true? Had he really heard the one true God tell him to go up against the city that God had chosen out of all the cities on the planet for his name to be worshipped?

No, the Rabshakeh had not heard the word of God. He was confused and misinformed. He had heard of the revival that had taken place during the reign of Hezekiah and thought Hezekiah had departed from the true worship of Jehovah.

But if thou say to me, We trust in the LORD our God: is it not he, whose high places and whose altars Hezekiah hath taken away, and said to Judah and to Jerusalem, Ye shall worship before this altar? (Isaiah 36:7)

Hezekiah had broken down altars to false gods and restored the true worship centered around the temple in Jerusalem. The Rabshakeh was trying to get the people not to trust Hezekiah and to fear him enough to surrender to him. However, he did not understand who Jehovah was. This reminds me of Muslims in our day. They look at Roman Catholic idolatry and think that is Christianity. They are confused because they have not had a good look at the true church.

What do you do when your enemy comes in the name of your God? It happens every day. In the name of Jesus some defend abortion. In the name of Jesus some say God made homosexuals that way. In the name of Jesus some say all roads lead to heaven.

To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. (Isaiah 8:20)

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: (1 John 4:1-2)

We must weigh every word spoken in the name of God by the Word of God. If a prophet does not speak according to the Word of God it is because there is no light in him!

In Christ,

Rody

Teach us to number our days

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 7; Psalm90; Isaiah 35; Revelation 5

So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. (Psalms 90:12)

Psalm 90 is the Word of God inspired by the Holy Spirit and penned by Moses. Moses knew about dwelling in God. He lived under the canopy of God's shading presence during the wilderness days for forty years. Moses witnessed first-hand an entire generation die off because they would not believe God. He had promised to give them the land of Canaan and they had said it was too hard. The cities walls were too tall and the people were giants. It could not be done! But God said it could.

As Moses led the people living in the wilderness, he realized how important it is to number your days. This Psalm points out:

The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. (Psalms 90:10)

Moses saw men in their 70's and 80's die one by one in the wilderness. He realized how precious life is and the fact that our days are gone way too soon. What should we do with our few short years upon this earth? We should apply our hearts unto wisdom. We should seek to know and understand the Word of God so that we will invest our time here wisely instead of spending it foolishly.

When you are taught by God to number your days, you realize how precious life is and how you need to live for Christ and not for yourself.

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21)

When you are taught by God to number your days, you realize that many will die without Christ unless they hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. Applying our hearts to wisdom leads us to be effective soul winners:

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. (Proverbs 11:30)

When you are taught by God to number your days, you love because you realize that relationships are the only things that last beyond this life.

And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. (Mark 12:30-31)

When you are taught by God to number your days you realize that you must redeem the time because there are many evil ways to spend it.

See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:15-16)

Apply your heart unto wisdom and realize that time is short!

In Christ,

Rody

If we observe to do all

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 6; Psalm 89; Isaiah 34; Revelation 4

And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God, as he hath commanded us. (Deuteronomy 6:25)

If an Israelite kept the whole law perfectly it would be righteousness to him. Righteousness is a requisite for entering into the presence of God. Do you have righteousness? Another way of asking the question is to inquire, "Do you see yourself as a good person?" The problem for the Israelite is the same problem you and I have. We have not kept the whole law. We have not observed all the commandments that God has commanded us.

We have broken the Ten Commandments. We have told lies, stolen, blasphemed God's holy name, and coveted those things that we don't have but our neighbor does. Even if we have not actually murdered, the Bible says:

Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. (1 John 3:15)

Jesus says that lust is adultery in God's eyes:

But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. (Matthew 5:28)

For some odd reason, we think God will settle with 51% righteousness on our part. We know we haven't kept the whole law, but we've done pretty good. However, God says we must do all these commandments before the LORD our God. The apostle Paul realized his inability to do all the commandments of God. Notice what he says:

And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: (Philippians 3:9)

Paul knew better than to trust in his own righteousness which came about by keeping the law. He knew he had broken the law. What about you? Have you kept the whole law? The Bible tells us:

For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. (James 2:10)

So whose righteousness are you standing in? If you are standing in your own righteousness, you have a problem. Unless you have perfectly kept God's law at every point, you are guilty before God and under a curse.

For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. (Galatians 3:10)

Or are you standing in the righteousness of Christ? This is the righteousness which comes by faith. Jesus Christ perfectly kept the whole law and he is righteous. The Bible tells us that if we will trust him, he will impute his righteousness to us. Do you trust you or Christ? I'm trusting Christ!

In Christ,

Rody

An open door

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 5; Psalm 88; Isaiah 33; Revelation 3

I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. (Revelation 3:8)

Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. (Revelation 3:20)

What a contrast between these two churches! One of them has an open door set before them and the other has Jesus shut up outside knocking on the door asking to come in! What is the difference between these two churches?

One church is holding fast with a little strength and one thinks that they have need of nothing. The church at Philadelphia had only a little strength. They were not big, wealthy, powerful or impressive by the world's standards. However, they did keep the Word of Jesus Christ. They stood their ground on the Word. They preached, taught, and believed the Word of God. They did not deny the name of Jesus Christ.

The Laodicean church was wealthy by worldly standards.

Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: (Revelation 3:17)

They did not know their true condition as declared by Jesus Christ. When the world looked at this church they saw wealth, power, and an abundance of resources. When Jesus looked at them he saw a miserable, poor, blind and naked body. Is it possible for us to see ourselves the complete opposite of what our true spiritual condition is? Absolutely! This is the lesson we must learn from the Laodicean church. We cannot be self-sufficient; we must be dependent upon the Lord!

The Philadelphian church had to depend upon the Lord because she only had a little strength. Her focus was on the Word of God and the name of Jesus. She had the open door before her because she was depending on Jesus to provide everything. Do you live as it Jesus does not exist? Do you need him every hour? Do you find yourself constantly crying out to him for the things you need just to make it through the day to day chores you have to do?

How does Jesus see you and your church? Is there an open door of ministry set before you or is Jesus outside trying to get in? From the perspective of Jesus, what does he see? That is the only thing that really matters anyway!

In Christ,

Rody