Bible Reading: Genesis 43-45
Genesis 45:7-8 And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance. 8 So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt.
Joseph realized the plan of God, but it took a while. After betrayal, slavery and prison, he finally realized what God was doing. God placed Joseph in a strategic position to save the lives of the Egyptians, the Israelites and many other people. He also had him in place to move Israel into Egypt which was his plan all along.
God delivered the Israelites from famine by Joseph's hand. Later, God would deliver the Israelites from Egyptian slavery with Moses' hand. God has a plan and if you and I are in Christ, we are a part of that plan. Joseph did a 'good work' in delivering so many from the famine. The Bible says that God has 'good works' for all his children to do.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
God has ordained these good works before. In other words, his plan is in place in our lives. He is not making it up as he goes. With that in mind, is it possible that difficult circumstances in our lives are like those of Joseph's? Is God positioning you to use you for a great deliverance?
Maybe you suffer at work with a difficult person? Maybe you are there to share the gospel with someone and be the instrument that God uses to bring that person to faith in Christ?
There are many other ways that God could put you in a position of influence in someone's life. I know that God allowed us to meet some doctors, nurses and other families when our daughter was in the hospital. It took a while, but eventually we realized that God wanted us to minister to the people we were coming into contact with.
Don't let the difficulties take your eyes off God's plan. He is bringing about a great deliverance. He has you in a position for a reason. Trust him!
In Christ,
Rody
Friday, January 27, 2012
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Can we find such a one as this
Bible Reading: Genesis 41-42
Genesis 41:38 And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is?
When a person is filled with the Spirit of God, people will recognize a difference. In Joseph's case the Pharaoh realized that Joseph had a wisdom that was beyond himself. In all his kingdom, the Pharaoh had not met anyone like Joseph.
It is God's intention for all his children to be men and women who are distinct and different in this world.
Titus 2:13-14 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
We are to be a peculiar people who are zealous of good works. When Pharaoh gave Joseph the opportunity, he did a good work with God's wisdom and God's plan.
The lost world will recognize a difference about the Christian. Christians should be the very best employees. They should be good students. They should be good neighbors and friends. Why? Because all of life is spiritual and God's Spirit empowers us to live for Christ in everyday circumstances.
Let God's Spirit have control of you today!
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 41:38 And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is?
When a person is filled with the Spirit of God, people will recognize a difference. In Joseph's case the Pharaoh realized that Joseph had a wisdom that was beyond himself. In all his kingdom, the Pharaoh had not met anyone like Joseph.
It is God's intention for all his children to be men and women who are distinct and different in this world.
Titus 2:13-14 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
We are to be a peculiar people who are zealous of good works. When Pharaoh gave Joseph the opportunity, he did a good work with God's wisdom and God's plan.
The lost world will recognize a difference about the Christian. Christians should be the very best employees. They should be good students. They should be good neighbors and friends. Why? Because all of life is spiritual and God's Spirit empowers us to live for Christ in everyday circumstances.
Let God's Spirit have control of you today!
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Israel loved Joseph more
Bible Reading: Genesis 35-37
Genesis 37:3 Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colours.
This hurts my heart! As I read of the family of Jacob I see a father who chooses favorites from among his children. How can a man do that? Did he not understand that this would create jealousy?
Genesis 37:4 And when his brethren saw that their father loved him more than all his brethren, they hated him, and could not speak peaceably unto him.
Could he not see that this would make the other brothers hate Joseph? Why would a parent do this? Well, unfortunately it happens. It was not Joseph's fault. He was the recipient of special attention from his father. He suffered for it at the hands of his brothers.
If you are a parent, please read this account in the Bible and make it a matter of prayer to love your children - all of them. They are not all alike, so you cannot treat them all alike, but you can love them all the same. Even if you have more in common with one of them, you can make it a matter of training on your part to understand the other children. Please - do not play favorites.
If you are a child, remember that the Bible promises:
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Even though Joseph's brothers hated him, God used their hatred to save many lives and fulfill his purpose. If you are the favorite don't flaunt it. If you are not the favorite, don't despise. Trust God. Because we have a loving Heavenly Father that loves all his children!
Praise God that through faith in Christ, we can have a perfect Father.
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 37:3 Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colours.
This hurts my heart! As I read of the family of Jacob I see a father who chooses favorites from among his children. How can a man do that? Did he not understand that this would create jealousy?
Genesis 37:4 And when his brethren saw that their father loved him more than all his brethren, they hated him, and could not speak peaceably unto him.
Could he not see that this would make the other brothers hate Joseph? Why would a parent do this? Well, unfortunately it happens. It was not Joseph's fault. He was the recipient of special attention from his father. He suffered for it at the hands of his brothers.
If you are a parent, please read this account in the Bible and make it a matter of prayer to love your children - all of them. They are not all alike, so you cannot treat them all alike, but you can love them all the same. Even if you have more in common with one of them, you can make it a matter of training on your part to understand the other children. Please - do not play favorites.
If you are a child, remember that the Bible promises:
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Even though Joseph's brothers hated him, God used their hatred to save many lives and fulfill his purpose. If you are the favorite don't flaunt it. If you are not the favorite, don't despise. Trust God. Because we have a loving Heavenly Father that loves all his children!
Praise God that through faith in Christ, we can have a perfect Father.
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, January 23, 2012
I will not let thee go
Bible Reading: Genesis 32-34
Genesis 32:26 And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.
When Jacob wrestled with the angel, he took a hold on him! He could not pin him, but he would not let go. Tenacity. He would not quit. Not even when he was told to let go.
This is a strange narrative in God's Word. I suppose the Lord did this to show Jacob how in one way or another, he had been wrestling with God all his life. God wanted him to submit. Jacob wanted God's blessing.
Do you want to be blessed by God? Jacob was willing to cheat, lie and deal to get the blessing and the birthright of his family. He wanted God's blessing. It is just strange the way he went about trying to get it.
Does God want us to use Jacob's means for getting his blessing? I don't think so, but one thing about Jacob that God does want us to have is his tenacity. He would not let go. Do you lay hold upon God? Do you want his blessing above all else in life?
The prophet Isaiah bemoaned the fact that in his day there was not one with Jacob's tenacity.
Isaiah 64:7 And there is none that calleth upon thy name, that stirreth up himself to take hold of thee: for thou hast hid thy face from us, and hast consumed us, because of our iniquities.
Isaiah ties taking hold of God and calling on his name in prayer together. Do you seek God's kingdom and his righteousness? Do you pray with fervency?
We have the privilege of of boldly coming to God's throne of grace. We live after the cross and if we are in Christ, we are blessed!
Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
We don't have to go seeking God's blessing! We walk daily in God's blessing in Christ. We don't have to wrestle with God, we can go to him boldly and ask.
Do we have tenacity in our prayer life? We need to. So pray and keep on praying!
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 32:26 And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.
When Jacob wrestled with the angel, he took a hold on him! He could not pin him, but he would not let go. Tenacity. He would not quit. Not even when he was told to let go.
This is a strange narrative in God's Word. I suppose the Lord did this to show Jacob how in one way or another, he had been wrestling with God all his life. God wanted him to submit. Jacob wanted God's blessing.
Do you want to be blessed by God? Jacob was willing to cheat, lie and deal to get the blessing and the birthright of his family. He wanted God's blessing. It is just strange the way he went about trying to get it.
Does God want us to use Jacob's means for getting his blessing? I don't think so, but one thing about Jacob that God does want us to have is his tenacity. He would not let go. Do you lay hold upon God? Do you want his blessing above all else in life?
The prophet Isaiah bemoaned the fact that in his day there was not one with Jacob's tenacity.
Isaiah 64:7 And there is none that calleth upon thy name, that stirreth up himself to take hold of thee: for thou hast hid thy face from us, and hast consumed us, because of our iniquities.
Isaiah ties taking hold of God and calling on his name in prayer together. Do you seek God's kingdom and his righteousness? Do you pray with fervency?
We have the privilege of of boldly coming to God's throne of grace. We live after the cross and if we are in Christ, we are blessed!
Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
We don't have to go seeking God's blessing! We walk daily in God's blessing in Christ. We don't have to wrestle with God, we can go to him boldly and ask.
Do we have tenacity in our prayer life? We need to. So pray and keep on praying!
In Christ,
Rody
Friday, January 20, 2012
Isaac intreated the Lord for his wife
Bible Reading: Genesis 25-26/i>
Genesis 25:21 And Isaac intreated the Lord for his wife, because she was barren: and the Lord was intreated of him, and Rebekah his wife conceived.
Barrenness ran in the family. Sarah was barren as well. It took a long time before she had a baby! Now Isaac's wife was barren as well. What did he do? He intreated the Lord for her. The word means to make intercession for someone. Isaac prayed for his wife.
What is your response when you run into problems? We resort to all sorts of means to alleviate them. We call experts and we worry. But the Bible tells us not to be full of care.
Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
The first response of the believer is prayer! And God promises peace. And God answers prayer. He answered Isaac's prayer for his wife. The Bible says that Rebekah conceived...20 years later!
Genesis 25:20 And Isaac was forty years old when he took Rebekah to wife, the daughter of Bethuel the Syrian of Padanaram, the sister to Laban the Syrian.
Genesis 25:26b ...and Isaac was threescore years old when she bare them.
Isaac prayed for Rebekah for twenty years before the Lord answered that prayer. Was he anxious and worried all that time? No, because when we pray, God promises his peace. Did he give up? No, becasue believers never give up on God. Believers learn to wait upon the Lord.
Isaiah 40:31 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.
What are you praying for? Keep on believing and waiting upon God and rest in his peace in the meantime!
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 25:21 And Isaac intreated the Lord for his wife, because she was barren: and the Lord was intreated of him, and Rebekah his wife conceived.
Barrenness ran in the family. Sarah was barren as well. It took a long time before she had a baby! Now Isaac's wife was barren as well. What did he do? He intreated the Lord for her. The word means to make intercession for someone. Isaac prayed for his wife.
What is your response when you run into problems? We resort to all sorts of means to alleviate them. We call experts and we worry. But the Bible tells us not to be full of care.
Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
The first response of the believer is prayer! And God promises peace. And God answers prayer. He answered Isaac's prayer for his wife. The Bible says that Rebekah conceived...20 years later!
Genesis 25:20 And Isaac was forty years old when he took Rebekah to wife, the daughter of Bethuel the Syrian of Padanaram, the sister to Laban the Syrian.
Genesis 25:26b ...and Isaac was threescore years old when she bare them.
Isaac prayed for Rebekah for twenty years before the Lord answered that prayer. Was he anxious and worried all that time? No, because when we pray, God promises his peace. Did he give up? No, becasue believers never give up on God. Believers learn to wait upon the Lord.
Isaiah 40:31 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.
What are you praying for? Keep on believing and waiting upon God and rest in his peace in the meantime!
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Jehovahjireh
Bible Reading: Genesis 22-24
Genesis 22:14 And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen.
God provided for Abraham a substitute for his son, Isaac. Abraham moved into a new understanding of God on the day he obeyed the LORD and was fully intent upon sacrificing his son. He was certain that God would provide a lamb, but a ram is not a lamb! I believe Abraham was looking forward to Jesus who is the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world (John 1:29). When Abraham saw the ram, he knew that God had 'seen to it'. That is literally what Jehovahjireh means.
Do you know the God who will 'see to it'? Do you know the God who is the provider? The most important provision that he has made is the provision of a substitute and the perfect righteousness of Jesus Christ. We do not produce righteousness - God provides it.
God also provides for us on a daily basis the things we need. He is our Provider! David knew Jehovahjireh when he said this:
Psalms 23:1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
David knew God would 'see to it'.
Jesus taught us to pray to the God who knows what we need before we ask him.
Matthew 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread.
And he said:
Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
You seek God and he will see to the things that you need. God is a provider. God is the one who 'sees to it'! His power is infinite. His resources are unlimited. His love is supreme. His knowledge is all encompassing. He is able!
2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 22:14 And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen.
God provided for Abraham a substitute for his son, Isaac. Abraham moved into a new understanding of God on the day he obeyed the LORD and was fully intent upon sacrificing his son. He was certain that God would provide a lamb, but a ram is not a lamb! I believe Abraham was looking forward to Jesus who is the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world (John 1:29). When Abraham saw the ram, he knew that God had 'seen to it'. That is literally what Jehovahjireh means.
Do you know the God who will 'see to it'? Do you know the God who is the provider? The most important provision that he has made is the provision of a substitute and the perfect righteousness of Jesus Christ. We do not produce righteousness - God provides it.
God also provides for us on a daily basis the things we need. He is our Provider! David knew Jehovahjireh when he said this:
Psalms 23:1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
David knew God would 'see to it'.
Jesus taught us to pray to the God who knows what we need before we ask him.
Matthew 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread.
And he said:
Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
You seek God and he will see to the things that you need. God is a provider. God is the one who 'sees to it'! His power is infinite. His resources are unlimited. His love is supreme. His knowledge is all encompassing. He is able!
2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
He shall pray for thee
Bible Reading: Genesis 19-21
Genesis 20:7 Now therefore restore the man his wife; for he is a prophet, and he shall pray for thee, and thou shalt live: and if thou restore her not, know thou that thou shalt surely die, thou, and all that are thine.
God was not pleased with the fact that Abimelech took Sarah as a wife. Abraham and Sarah lied about their marriage and that is inexcusable, however, God would not allow Abimelech to sin by laying with Sarah. God instructed him to give her back to Abraham and he would pray for Abimelech.
How important is intercessory prayer? It is very important. The Bible says:
James 4:2b ...ye have not, because ye ask not.
God answers believing prayer. In Abimelech's case, his healing and that of his people would not happen until Abraham prayed for him. However, when Abraham prayed for him, he was healed.
Genesis 20:17-18 So Abraham prayed unto God: and God healed Abimelech, and his wife, and his maidservants; and they bare children. 18 For the Lord had fast closed up all the wombs of the house of Abimelech, because of Sarah Abraham's wife.
The same thing happened with Job and his friends. God instructed Job's friends to offer sacrifices and to go to Job and he would pray for them.
Job 42:8 Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job.
In both of these instances, Abraham and Job were performing a priestly office by interceding for others. Both of them were interceding for others who had wronged them.
How important is intercession? It is of utmost importance. God accepts the intercessor and forgives the transgression of the sinner! That is why our Intercessor is so important for us.
Romans 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
The intercession of Christ is the reason we are accepted by God. Our prayers are also cleansed by the interceding work of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.
Romans 8:26-27 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Because of this, we can become intercessors for others.
1 John 5:16 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.
We can pray for others because God is interceding on our behalf. We are kings and priests because of what Christ has done for us.
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 20:7 Now therefore restore the man his wife; for he is a prophet, and he shall pray for thee, and thou shalt live: and if thou restore her not, know thou that thou shalt surely die, thou, and all that are thine.
God was not pleased with the fact that Abimelech took Sarah as a wife. Abraham and Sarah lied about their marriage and that is inexcusable, however, God would not allow Abimelech to sin by laying with Sarah. God instructed him to give her back to Abraham and he would pray for Abimelech.
How important is intercessory prayer? It is very important. The Bible says:
James 4:2b ...ye have not, because ye ask not.
God answers believing prayer. In Abimelech's case, his healing and that of his people would not happen until Abraham prayed for him. However, when Abraham prayed for him, he was healed.
Genesis 20:17-18 So Abraham prayed unto God: and God healed Abimelech, and his wife, and his maidservants; and they bare children. 18 For the Lord had fast closed up all the wombs of the house of Abimelech, because of Sarah Abraham's wife.
The same thing happened with Job and his friends. God instructed Job's friends to offer sacrifices and to go to Job and he would pray for them.
Job 42:8 Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job.
In both of these instances, Abraham and Job were performing a priestly office by interceding for others. Both of them were interceding for others who had wronged them.
How important is intercession? It is of utmost importance. God accepts the intercessor and forgives the transgression of the sinner! That is why our Intercessor is so important for us.
Romans 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
The intercession of Christ is the reason we are accepted by God. Our prayers are also cleansed by the interceding work of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.
Romans 8:26-27 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Because of this, we can become intercessors for others.
1 John 5:16 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.
We can pray for others because God is interceding on our behalf. We are kings and priests because of what Christ has done for us.
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
I will not destroy it for tens sake
Bible Reading: Genesis 16-18
Genesis 18:32 And he said, Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but this once: Peradventure ten shall be found there. And he said, I will not destroy it for ten's sake.
The meeting between Abraham and the Lord at his tent is a wonderful part of scripture. I am so glad it is here for us. The Bible says:
Romans 15:4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
We are meant to learn from this. We are meant to learn patience and have comfort as we read about Abraham and his meeting with the Lord.
What are we meant to learn? We are meant to learn that God is merciful and does not desire to destroy the righteous with the wicked. However, there were not ten righteous people in the cities of the plain! According to Scripture, Lot was the only one! Lot was not even able to influence his own family. The wickedness of the city got them!
We are also meant to learn that intercession on other's behalf is a prayer that God hears. The Bible helps us understand that God spared Lot because of his righteousness and Abraham's intercession.
Genesis 19:29 And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the plain, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when he overthrew the cities in the which Lot dwelt.
God remembered Abraham and sent Lot out! Who are you praying for right now? Who are you interceding of behalf of? Do you know that God is merciful? Do you plead on behalf of others?
Jesus invites us to boldly come to the throne of grace to obtain mercy and grace. Let us be like Abraham! Let us intercede on behalf of others.
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 18:32 And he said, Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but this once: Peradventure ten shall be found there. And he said, I will not destroy it for ten's sake.
The meeting between Abraham and the Lord at his tent is a wonderful part of scripture. I am so glad it is here for us. The Bible says:
Romans 15:4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
We are meant to learn from this. We are meant to learn patience and have comfort as we read about Abraham and his meeting with the Lord.
What are we meant to learn? We are meant to learn that God is merciful and does not desire to destroy the righteous with the wicked. However, there were not ten righteous people in the cities of the plain! According to Scripture, Lot was the only one! Lot was not even able to influence his own family. The wickedness of the city got them!
We are also meant to learn that intercession on other's behalf is a prayer that God hears. The Bible helps us understand that God spared Lot because of his righteousness and Abraham's intercession.
Genesis 19:29 And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the plain, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when he overthrew the cities in the which Lot dwelt.
God remembered Abraham and sent Lot out! Who are you praying for right now? Who are you interceding of behalf of? Do you know that God is merciful? Do you plead on behalf of others?
Jesus invites us to boldly come to the throne of grace to obtain mercy and grace. Let us be like Abraham! Let us intercede on behalf of others.
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, January 16, 2012
We be brethren
Bible Reading: Genesis 12-15
Genesis 13:8-9 And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren. 9 Is not the whole land before thee? separate thyself, I pray thee, from me: if thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if thou depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left.
Strife between brethren is unthinkable. It is a most awful thing. God gave us families with brothers and sisters and we are to love one another. Abraham remembered the very first family and what strife led to between Cain and Abel!
Abram's reasoning for not striving is the very fact that they are brethren. Moses reasoned the same way with some Hebrew men that he saw striving with one another.
Exodus 2:13 And when he went out the second day, behold, two men of the Hebrews strove together: and he said to him that did the wrong, Wherefore smitest thou thy fellow?
Brethren should not strive against one another. They should strive together with one another against the enemy. The Bible pronounces a wonderful blessing upon brethren that dwell together in unity.
Psalm 133 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.
Since Abram and Lot's herdsmen could not get along and their livestock made it necessary for them to separate, Abram gave Lot the choice . He would not make demands or tell the younger man what must happen. He would let Lot choose and trust God to provide for him. Peace between brethren was that important to Abram. It should be that important to us also.
Jesus has called us to love one another as he has loved us (John 13:34-35). We need not strive but love the brethren.
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 13:8-9 And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren. 9 Is not the whole land before thee? separate thyself, I pray thee, from me: if thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if thou depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left.
Strife between brethren is unthinkable. It is a most awful thing. God gave us families with brothers and sisters and we are to love one another. Abraham remembered the very first family and what strife led to between Cain and Abel!
Abram's reasoning for not striving is the very fact that they are brethren. Moses reasoned the same way with some Hebrew men that he saw striving with one another.
Exodus 2:13 And when he went out the second day, behold, two men of the Hebrews strove together: and he said to him that did the wrong, Wherefore smitest thou thy fellow?
Brethren should not strive against one another. They should strive together with one another against the enemy. The Bible pronounces a wonderful blessing upon brethren that dwell together in unity.
Psalm 133 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.
Since Abram and Lot's herdsmen could not get along and their livestock made it necessary for them to separate, Abram gave Lot the choice . He would not make demands or tell the younger man what must happen. He would let Lot choose and trust God to provide for him. Peace between brethren was that important to Abram. It should be that important to us also.
Jesus has called us to love one another as he has loved us (John 13:34-35). We need not strive but love the brethren.
In Christ,
Rody
Friday, January 13, 2012
Consider the wondrous works of God
Bible Reading: Job 35-37
Job 37:10-14 By the breath of God frost is given: and the breadth of the waters is straitened. Also by watering he wearieth the thick cloud: he scattereth his bright cloud: And it is turned round about by his counsels: that they may do whatsoever he commandeth them upon the face of the world in the earth. He causeth it to come, whether for correction, or for his land, or for mercy. Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God.
When that cold North wind blows, do you know that it is the breath of God? The Bible tells us so. It is more than just a meteorological condition of the planet earth. It is the providence of the Almighty. Our Creator did not just wind up the clock and let it go. He is at work in our world all the time!
Remember when Jesus told the wind and the waves, "Peace, be still" (Mark 4:39)? He was doing what he has always done. Jesus commands the clouds to do his bidding. He sends them all over the face of the earth to do what he wants them to do.
Why does he do this? Why doesn't he just let the hydraulic system of the earth work on it's own? (Who says it would work on it's own apart from God?) The next verse tells us that God is doing at least three things with the weather.
First, he sends the clouds and the cold for correction. Sometimes he uses the weather to correct people. Have you ever thought about that? He was very specific in saying to Israel that him withholding rain from their land was a chastisement for their sin. Maybe God holds back rain to get our attention as well.
Second, he sends rain for his land. God owns this world and it needs water to produce. God sends it for that purpose. God is a Gardner.
Third, he sends the rain and the snow for his mercy. When a dry land receives a good rain or snow, it is mercy for the land and the people who need what the land produces. Rain equals bread.
Farmers have always known this, but sometimes we forget. When you get a good rain, be sure and thank God for it! Also remember that God can use the weather to chastise us when we forget about him and his ways.
Because of this knowledge, we need to be reminded to stand still and consider the wondrous works of God!
Praise him for the merciful moisture.
In Christ,
Rody
Job 37:10-14 By the breath of God frost is given: and the breadth of the waters is straitened. Also by watering he wearieth the thick cloud: he scattereth his bright cloud: And it is turned round about by his counsels: that they may do whatsoever he commandeth them upon the face of the world in the earth. He causeth it to come, whether for correction, or for his land, or for mercy. Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God.
When that cold North wind blows, do you know that it is the breath of God? The Bible tells us so. It is more than just a meteorological condition of the planet earth. It is the providence of the Almighty. Our Creator did not just wind up the clock and let it go. He is at work in our world all the time!
Remember when Jesus told the wind and the waves, "Peace, be still" (Mark 4:39)? He was doing what he has always done. Jesus commands the clouds to do his bidding. He sends them all over the face of the earth to do what he wants them to do.
Why does he do this? Why doesn't he just let the hydraulic system of the earth work on it's own? (Who says it would work on it's own apart from God?) The next verse tells us that God is doing at least three things with the weather.
First, he sends the clouds and the cold for correction. Sometimes he uses the weather to correct people. Have you ever thought about that? He was very specific in saying to Israel that him withholding rain from their land was a chastisement for their sin. Maybe God holds back rain to get our attention as well.
Second, he sends rain for his land. God owns this world and it needs water to produce. God sends it for that purpose. God is a Gardner.
Third, he sends the rain and the snow for his mercy. When a dry land receives a good rain or snow, it is mercy for the land and the people who need what the land produces. Rain equals bread.
Farmers have always known this, but sometimes we forget. When you get a good rain, be sure and thank God for it! Also remember that God can use the weather to chastise us when we forget about him and his ways.
Because of this knowledge, we need to be reminded to stand still and consider the wondrous works of God!
Praise him for the merciful moisture.
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Great men
Bible Reading: Job 32-34
Job 32:9 Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.
Christians need to learn and know this lesson quickly. Just because our world says someone is 'great' does not mean they have wisdom. Our culture places wealthy, talented and intelligent people on an exalted level. However, that does not mean they are wise. Many times wealthy people have inherited their wealth and are sorely lacking in wisdom. Talented people are not necessarily wise. Case in point are so many of the terrible examples of godliness and character in Hollywood and in professional sports. Intelligence means a high amount of knowledge, but wisdom is not always a part of that.
When we look to 'great men' we need to look at their character and convictions. We need to not allow their fame to blind the truly important things that we should look for in a man or woman's life. Don't follow after 'great men' just because our culture says they are great!
Neither do the aged understand judgment. Just because a person has years of experience does not mean they have the knowledge of God. King David said:
Psalms 119:97-100 O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day. Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.
The key to wisdom is to fear God.
Job 28:28 And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.
The Word of God gives us the wisdom we need. When you meet a person do not gauge them by their age or 'greatness'. Instead look to their life and see if they live a godly life according to God's Word!
In Christ,
Rody
Job 32:9 Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.
Christians need to learn and know this lesson quickly. Just because our world says someone is 'great' does not mean they have wisdom. Our culture places wealthy, talented and intelligent people on an exalted level. However, that does not mean they are wise. Many times wealthy people have inherited their wealth and are sorely lacking in wisdom. Talented people are not necessarily wise. Case in point are so many of the terrible examples of godliness and character in Hollywood and in professional sports. Intelligence means a high amount of knowledge, but wisdom is not always a part of that.
When we look to 'great men' we need to look at their character and convictions. We need to not allow their fame to blind the truly important things that we should look for in a man or woman's life. Don't follow after 'great men' just because our culture says they are great!
Neither do the aged understand judgment. Just because a person has years of experience does not mean they have the knowledge of God. King David said:
Psalms 119:97-100 O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day. Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.
The key to wisdom is to fear God.
Job 28:28 And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.
The Word of God gives us the wisdom we need. When you meet a person do not gauge them by their age or 'greatness'. Instead look to their life and see if they live a godly life according to God's Word!
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
This is an heinous crime
Bible Reading: Job 29-31
Job 31:9-11 If mine heart have been deceived by a woman, or if I have laid wait at my neighbour's door; Then let my wife grind unto another, and let others bow down upon her. For this is an heinous crime; yea, it is an iniquity to be punished by the judges.
Job in his parable discussed his integrity. He talked of his way of life and his desire to live life in a righteous way. As he did he discussed his covenant that he had made with his eyes.
Job 31:1 I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
Job here is telling us that adultery is a heinous crime. It is so terrible that he said it would be justice for his wife to become a slave and a concubine to others if he ever committed adultery. Wow!
Our culture takes sin like adultery and speaks of it by calling it 'an affair'. But God is his Word has instructed us that adultery is forbidden. It is listed right alongside murder in the Ten Commandments.
Job also realized that his commitment to his covenant with his wife must be enforced all the way back to his eyes. Not only could he not ever break his marriage covenant, but he could not even look upon a 'maid' or beautiful young woman. He knew that all sin begins in the heart with lust and then manifests itself when a person follows through and acts upon their thoughts. This is what Jesus teaches us:
Mark 7:21-22 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness:
Job's covenant with his eyes is something that all Christians should study and put in place in their own lives. We also must view adultery as the heinous sin that the Bible says it is. Adultery is breaking a covenant with your spouse. Adultery is a sin before Almighty God. Adultery is a misrepresentation of the gospel because the relationship of a husband and wife is a picture of Christ and his church (Ephesians 5:22-33). Adultery is a work of the flesh (Galatians 5:19).
Jesus' promise to his church is that he will never leave us or forsake us (brews 13:5), a covenant between a man and his wife should be the same until death parts them. Make a covenant with your eyes!
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
That is wisdom
Bible Reading: Job 24-28
Job 28:28 And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.
Job told a parable about wisdom. He basically discussed many of the hidden treasures of this earth. He talked about the fact that man has discovered where to find precious things like silver, gold, brass and precious stones. However, man on his own could not find wisdom.
Job 28:12-13 But where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding? Man knoweth not the price thereof; neither is it found in the land of the living.
Wealthy men have spent many millions of dollars to buy wisdom. They have hired men to build them things and paid researchers and archaeologists to hunt for ancient wisdom. There are many ancient civilizations that have been dug out of the dust in places like Egypt, India, Babylon, Mexico and North America. However, wisdom is still illusive to man.
Why is that? Because ancient civilizations did not always have wisdom. Most of them were deceived and worshipped false gods. Their wisdom was not godly wisdom, but devlish.
James 3:15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.
However, Job tells us what the Lord has said unto man. God has told us where wisdom is to be found. The fear of the Lord IS wisdom. To depart from evil IS understanding. To fear the Lord and follow his ways is wisdom.
Are you a wise person? Do you fear the Lord? Do you:
Colossians 3:2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.?
Do you pray and seek God in your decisions on a daily basis? Do you read God's Word and obey it?
God gives wisdom. He promises wisdom tot he person who will pray for it in faith.
James 1:5-6 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. 6 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.
You don't have to go on an exotic excavation team to find wisdom. Simply mine the truth from the Word of God and ask God who is a liberal giver of wisdom.
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, January 9, 2012
Depart from us
Bible Reading: Job 21-23
Job 21:14-15 Therefore they say unto God, Depart from us; for we desire not the knowledge of thy ways. What is the Almighty, that we should serve him? and what profit should we have, if we pray unto him?
As Job discussed with his 'friends', he began to talk about the wicked. They live life as if God does not exist. They are born, they raise families, they do business, they live and they die and never give a thought to God. More than that, they say to God, "Depart from us; for we desire not the knowledge of thy ways."
This is the way that many people live. They don't want to know about God. They don't believe that they should serve him or worship him. They don't pray to him. The Bible says that this is the belief of a fool.
Psalms 53:1 The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity: there is none that doeth good.
Notice also that Job tells us that it is the wicked who do not think there is any profit in prayer. If they don't want to know about his ways, they certainly will not pray.
For the believer, however, prayer is essential. Do you live a life of prayer? Do you pray and bring your requests for yourself and others before God's throne regularly? The believer prays. The wicked do not.
Jesus told a parable to instruct us to always pray and not faint. It is about a judge and a widow who continues to appeal to him for justice. He finally gets tired of her coming and gives her the justice she is seeking. Jesus used this as a 'how much more' teaching to say that God always hears our prayers. Even though he may not answer them immediately, we should always pray. Then, Jesus said this:
Luke 18:8 Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?
When he comes will he find you praying? Or will he find you asking what profit there is in prayer? The believer prays. The wicked do not.
In Christ,
Rody
Friday, January 6, 2012
I will trust in him
Bible Reading: Job 10-13
Job 13:15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.
Job had a true and good faith in God. There was no attitude of entitlement with Job in his relationship with God. Job did not serve God for what he could get from him. This is actually the point of Job. God proved to Satan, to all the host of heaven and all of mankind that when a man belongs to God, he is his.
Take all that Job has and he will still trust God. Satan did not believe it. Satan had a prosperity theology. He thought Job trusted God because of what God gave to him and did for him. God knew different. When it came down to it, Job said it did not matter what happened to him, he would trust in the Lord.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
We are to trust in the Lord with all our heart. Not a half-hearted kind of 'pray-when-you-are-in-trouble' kind of faith. We need to be like Job in that he trusted God no matter what. Yes he had questions and he did not like what was happening, but he still trusted God.
You and I do not have to have all the answers. We know that Jesus is good.
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
True faith trusts God because you believe his Word. He promised to save us and keep us.
Will you trust God - no matter what?
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, January 5, 2012
How can a man be just with God
Bible Reading: Job 6-9
Job 9:2 I know it is so of a truth: but how should man be just with God?
Job's friends had a theology that said if you do good God will bless you and if you do evil, God will destroy you. They reasoned that was the cause for Job's suffering. However, the Bible very clearly tells us this is not right.
Job 1:22 In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.
Job realized that a mortal man could not be just with God. In other words, he knew that even a person who tries to live a righteous life is sinful at heart. He knew that he could not try and justify himself before God.
Job 9:20 If I justify myself, mine own mouth shall condemn me: if I say, I am perfect, it shall also prove me perverse.
His own mouth would prove him to be perverse. Why? Because Job knew his heart and he knew that he was not 100% righteous. He knew that he was a sinful man. This is God's teaching from the Bible in it's entirety.
Ecclesiastes 7:20 For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.
Job knew he was not just and he cried out for a daysman.
Job 9:33 Neither is there any daysman betwixt us, that might lay his hand upon us both.
Job wanted a daysman or a mediator between himself and God. He wanted someone who could lay his hand upon both him and God. He cried out for a mediator.
Do you realize that Job was asking for exactly what we have? He was asking for Jesus!
1 Timothy 2:5-6 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.
Jesus is our Daysman. He is the mediator between us and the Father. He stands between sinful man and holy God and lays his hand upon us both. It is his life that paid the ransom for our sins. He is how a man can be just with God! Jesus is the only way that we can be righteous in God's sight.
Do you know the Daysman?
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
The Lord gave
Bible Reading: Job 1-5
Job 1:21 And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.
Job knew some very important things about the character and nature of God. He also understood a lot about himself. One of the important things that Job's view of life was based on was that he came into the world with nothing and he would leaven with nothing. He also knew that what he had was a gift from God.
This is an important lesson for us all to learn. John the Baptist knew it.
John 3:27 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.
Jesus taught us all to have this view.
Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
James taught it.
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Paul taught it.
1 Corinthians 4:7 For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?
What do you have that you have not received? God is the giver of all good gifts. We need to know this and treasure our relationship above all possessions. These come and go, but our relationship with God lasts forever.
Job would not fault God for taking the things that he had. God had given them and God had taken them. However, he would bless the name of God in good times and bad.
Will you allow the Holy Spirit to give you that kind of perspective on life? Will you hold all things loosely and cling to God with all that you have?
In Christ,
Rody
Job 1:21 And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.
Job knew some very important things about the character and nature of God. He also understood a lot about himself. One of the important things that Job's view of life was based on was that he came into the world with nothing and he would leaven with nothing. He also knew that what he had was a gift from God.
This is an important lesson for us all to learn. John the Baptist knew it.
John 3:27 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.
Jesus taught us all to have this view.
Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
James taught it.
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Paul taught it.
1 Corinthians 4:7 For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?
What do you have that you have not received? God is the giver of all good gifts. We need to know this and treasure our relationship above all possessions. These come and go, but our relationship with God lasts forever.
Job would not fault God for taking the things that he had. God had given them and God had taken them. However, he would bless the name of God in good times and bad.
Will you allow the Holy Spirit to give you that kind of perspective on life? Will you hold all things loosely and cling to God with all that you have?
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
While the earth remaineth
Bible Reading: Genesis 8 - 11
Genesis 8:21-22 And the Lord smelled a sweet savour; and the Lord said in his heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for man's sake; for the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth; neither will I again smite any more every thing living, as I have done. 22 While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.
2012 is going to be an interesting year. The ancient Maya and Hopi's as well as the Bible Code predict either catastrophies or something huge and 'earth shattering' for this year. I don't believe any of these, so that is not the direction I am going with this post. I believe the Word of God. After the flood, God promised Noah that he would not again curse the ground for man's sake. He said he would not destroy the earth with a flood.
Genesis 9:15-16 And I will remember my covenant, which is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh. 16 And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth.
God has promised that seasons and day and night will not cease as long as the earth remains. No polar shifts are going to occur. And nothing will change as far as seasons go. However...
This world will be destroyed some day. It will happen in God's timing after Jesus returns tot he earth.
2 Peter 3:7 But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
2 Peter 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
This is not a cause for worry. For followers of Jesus, it means the heavens and earth which now are must be removed so there can be a new heaven and a new earth. It also means that any catastrophe that might happen to the earth is in our Lord's hands. We don't look forward to catastrophe or any particular date. We look forward to the coming of the Lord! God is in control of our galaxy and our universe. Trust him and remember that every day he tarries is another opportunity for those who do not know him to repent and believe on Jesus Christ!
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 8:21-22 And the Lord smelled a sweet savour; and the Lord said in his heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for man's sake; for the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth; neither will I again smite any more every thing living, as I have done. 22 While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.
2012 is going to be an interesting year. The ancient Maya and Hopi's as well as the Bible Code predict either catastrophies or something huge and 'earth shattering' for this year. I don't believe any of these, so that is not the direction I am going with this post. I believe the Word of God. After the flood, God promised Noah that he would not again curse the ground for man's sake. He said he would not destroy the earth with a flood.
Genesis 9:15-16 And I will remember my covenant, which is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh. 16 And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth.
God has promised that seasons and day and night will not cease as long as the earth remains. No polar shifts are going to occur. And nothing will change as far as seasons go. However...
This world will be destroyed some day. It will happen in God's timing after Jesus returns tot he earth.
2 Peter 3:7 But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
2 Peter 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
This is not a cause for worry. For followers of Jesus, it means the heavens and earth which now are must be removed so there can be a new heaven and a new earth. It also means that any catastrophe that might happen to the earth is in our Lord's hands. We don't look forward to catastrophe or any particular date. We look forward to the coming of the Lord! God is in control of our galaxy and our universe. Trust him and remember that every day he tarries is another opportunity for those who do not know him to repent and believe on Jesus Christ!
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, January 2, 2012
Thy brothers blood crieth unto me from the ground
Bible Reading: Genesis 4-7
Genesis 4:10 And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto me from the ground.
What was the cry of the blood of Abel? Was it not, "Murder!"? Cain had rose up against his brother and he slew him while they were in the field. The first murder in history was one brother taking another brother's life because of an argument. Perhaps the argument was based on jealousy because God accepted Abel's blood sacrifice brought in faith. Cain's offering of 'the fruit of the ground' was rejected by God. We are told that this rejection caused Cain to be wroth.
Cain was angry with God and he was angry with Abel. This anger was all Cain's fault as God pointed out that if Cain would do well, he would be accepted. That is simple enough, isn't it? Do what God says and you will be accepted. Have you always done that? Of course not, we are all sinners. We have all 'come short of the glory of God' (Romans 3:23).
The lesson we must learn from Cain and Abel is to obey God brings blessing from God but it can also bring hatred from those who will not honor God. Unfortunately, some don't want God's way, they want their own way.
When God confronted Cain with his horrible deed, he said that Abel's blood cried to him from the ground. What a strange way of saying this, but it helps us to understand something very important. Even though you and I have not always done well in God's eyes, Jesus did! And his blood was spilled as well.
Hebrews 12:24 And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.
If the blood of Abel cried out, "Murder!", the blood of Jesus cries out, "Forgiven!" His blood was shed so that we might be cleansed of our sins. Can you hear the cry of the blood? "Clean", "Finished", "Paid for", "Redeemed"!
Jesus' blood speaks, are you listening?
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 4:10 And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto me from the ground.
What was the cry of the blood of Abel? Was it not, "Murder!"? Cain had rose up against his brother and he slew him while they were in the field. The first murder in history was one brother taking another brother's life because of an argument. Perhaps the argument was based on jealousy because God accepted Abel's blood sacrifice brought in faith. Cain's offering of 'the fruit of the ground' was rejected by God. We are told that this rejection caused Cain to be wroth.
Cain was angry with God and he was angry with Abel. This anger was all Cain's fault as God pointed out that if Cain would do well, he would be accepted. That is simple enough, isn't it? Do what God says and you will be accepted. Have you always done that? Of course not, we are all sinners. We have all 'come short of the glory of God' (Romans 3:23).
The lesson we must learn from Cain and Abel is to obey God brings blessing from God but it can also bring hatred from those who will not honor God. Unfortunately, some don't want God's way, they want their own way.
When God confronted Cain with his horrible deed, he said that Abel's blood cried to him from the ground. What a strange way of saying this, but it helps us to understand something very important. Even though you and I have not always done well in God's eyes, Jesus did! And his blood was spilled as well.
Hebrews 12:24 And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.
If the blood of Abel cried out, "Murder!", the blood of Jesus cries out, "Forgiven!" His blood was shed so that we might be cleansed of our sins. Can you hear the cry of the blood? "Clean", "Finished", "Paid for", "Redeemed"!
Jesus' blood speaks, are you listening?
In Christ,
Rody
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