Our daughter was expecting her baby any day and we were all sitting on pins and needles waiting for a call saying she had gone into labor. What we got was unexpected...she called to let me know that she was in labor but the doctors wanted her to stay at home and continue her labor until she had dilated further. As I spoke with her on the phone, she occasionally stopped talking and started to breathe in a familiar pattern. I myself have had the experience three times and given birth to three wonderful, productive; now grown children.
On the other end of the phone was our only daughter experiencing the pain that women must go through to reap the beautiful reward of welcoming a new life into the world. We talked between contractions and made plans for her father and I to fly out to meet them at the hospital.
It was her first child so no one really knew what to expect. We wondered how long the labor would be, how difficult the birth would be, or if there would be complications. After getting off the phone, her father and I discussed our plans and decided to purchase our tickets to Portland.
The next day she called again. Her father was sitting at the computer when the phone rang. As he answered it I heard him say hello sweety, how are the contractions going. I knew it was our daughter calling to let us know how things were progressing. He made a few more comments and I ran to the office just in time to see his face. He appeared to be in pain himself; then I realized that he was listening to his only daughter as she suffered in pain from a contraction. It was as if time stood still, he couldn't speak; only listen. As I watched his face many things went through my mind. Knowing him and how much he loves Ashley, I knew that he was probably thinking that he would take the pain away if he could. The sympathy in his eyes also brought back a distant memory of a childhood accident involving Ashley as a four year old and a fall she took that required several stitches just above her eyebrow.
I'll never forget that day, as he watched the Dr.'s (it took several of them) force her to lye down as they wrapped her up so tightly that she couldn't move so that they could put the stitches in. She screamed in fear and frustration. As her father watched the scene he could see the terror is her eyes and I could see the love and empathy in his.
September 22nd of 2010, I saw that same look. His little girl was in pain and there was nothing he could do to stop it. At the age of four she didn't understand the benefits for the stitches, but 24 years later the benefits are well worth the pain. The next morning, September 24th, our beautiful little granddaughter, Cora Rose Brassea was born. She's so perfect in every way to us. Ashley is a mother for the first time and her pain made us grandparents for the first time. We love our little Cora more that words can express.
I am reminded of another father who suffered the same agony as He watched his son suffer in pain and eventually die. But this sons' death brought about a new birth as well. The father is God almighty, his son is Jesus Christ and the new birth was made possible by his pain. This new birth happens every time a sinner comes to the son and repents of the sin in his heart and accepts the sacrifice that Jesus made when he gave his life for all mankind. What a wonderful treasure that gift is to us. I thank God every day for the wonderful gift of His son Jesus.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Monday, November 15, 2010
The Kick-off Event For the New Ministry!
On Saturday, November 13th; our new ladies ministry called "Connections" was kicked off with a ladies banquet. We called it our "Let's Get Acquainted" banquet. In recent weeks we have been informed that our congregation has doubled in just two years since moving from Duluth, Ga. (where we could seat about 250) to Lawrenceville, Ga. into a building with a sanctuary that will seat 850. It has been amazing to watch God's hand move among His people.
It has also been quite eye-opening to see how much Satan can fight against the moving of the Spirit among the congregation.
But, we (the members of the church) have remained faithful to God and the direction in which he has led us and He has proved himself to be faithful in the ministry over and over again.
One of the goals for the banquet was to allow the new ladies who have joined to connect with our ladies who have been with us from before the move to Lawrenceville. I am happy to say that I have heard so much buzz among the ladies and how happy they are that they were able to make new friends and feel a part of an exciting ladies ministry.
At the end of the evening I handed out a survey card for the ladies to fill out. The questions were directed in two main areas. What are your gifts, talents, abilities and passions for Christian service and what do you need and desire to see us do for you through the ladies ministry at Meadow Baptist.
I have spent some time going through those cards and a couple of things are occurring over and over again.
Many of the ladies have written down that they desire more fellowships and activities that bring them together with other ladies. Many have also expressed a desire to be discipled or mentored. I expected to see both of these things as the Lord has impressed upon my heart in the last couple of years that there is a huge need for fellowship and guidance among Christian women (Titus 2)
What I was really delighted to see is that I am finding that there are just as many women who have a desire to disciple and / or mentor another lady.
God is bringing it all to pass. He is revealing the needs of the ladies in our congregation and providing an avenue for those needs to be met.
Now, it is up to us to seek God's direction in how to bring these two groups of ladies together for His glory. The banquet was beautiful, exciting and more wonderful than I had even hoped for. Now, we roll up our sleeves and watch God reward all the hard work.
Please join me in this prayer; God, bless this ministry. May it be a shining light to guide women to you and an avenue of blessing to those who are yielded to service. He is good and His mercy endures forever.....can't wait to see what He's going to do next. I'll let you know!
It has also been quite eye-opening to see how much Satan can fight against the moving of the Spirit among the congregation.
But, we (the members of the church) have remained faithful to God and the direction in which he has led us and He has proved himself to be faithful in the ministry over and over again.
One of the goals for the banquet was to allow the new ladies who have joined to connect with our ladies who have been with us from before the move to Lawrenceville. I am happy to say that I have heard so much buzz among the ladies and how happy they are that they were able to make new friends and feel a part of an exciting ladies ministry.
At the end of the evening I handed out a survey card for the ladies to fill out. The questions were directed in two main areas. What are your gifts, talents, abilities and passions for Christian service and what do you need and desire to see us do for you through the ladies ministry at Meadow Baptist.
I have spent some time going through those cards and a couple of things are occurring over and over again.
Many of the ladies have written down that they desire more fellowships and activities that bring them together with other ladies. Many have also expressed a desire to be discipled or mentored. I expected to see both of these things as the Lord has impressed upon my heart in the last couple of years that there is a huge need for fellowship and guidance among Christian women (Titus 2)
What I was really delighted to see is that I am finding that there are just as many women who have a desire to disciple and / or mentor another lady.
God is bringing it all to pass. He is revealing the needs of the ladies in our congregation and providing an avenue for those needs to be met.
Now, it is up to us to seek God's direction in how to bring these two groups of ladies together for His glory. The banquet was beautiful, exciting and more wonderful than I had even hoped for. Now, we roll up our sleeves and watch God reward all the hard work.
Please join me in this prayer; God, bless this ministry. May it be a shining light to guide women to you and an avenue of blessing to those who are yielded to service. He is good and His mercy endures forever.....can't wait to see what He's going to do next. I'll let you know!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
A New Direction!!!
Hi everyone; whoever you are. I'm sure by now that most of you who were following this blog have probably given up. The last post was on April 19th. I am so sorry. I had a seven week Bible study that took so much of my time.
The study was based on a book by Susan Hunt called "Spiritual Mothering the Titus II mandate" I made all my own handouts for each chapter and spent a lot of time in study, prayer and preparation. The study involved 21 ladies.
As a direct result of the seven week study I got some definite direction from the Lord about something I've been praying for over 2 years.
The Lord has impressed upon me to start a women's ministry at Meadow Baptist Church like none we've ever had. We are not only going to be establishing discipleship, mentoring and more Bible studies for the ladies in our congregation, but we are also, beginning to reach out into the surrounding community to reach ladies in need there.
As the director of the "Connections" ministry, I am asking that you please join me in praying for a clear direction. I wrote the following mission statement and vision statement for the ministry:
Vision: As Christians we have a desire to see the women's ministry of Meadow Baptist Church become a beacon of hope to the lost, a source of strength for the fearful, a shelter for those seeking refuge, and a constant source of encouragement and acceptance. Our prayer is that every woman who enters our church will find a place of sanctuary where she feels unconditional love, peace of mind and an eternal spring of hope that is rooted in the faith that we share through the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ.
Mission statement: To create a ministry that touches the lives of women from the teens to our senior saints and serves as a tool to edify, educate, encourage and evangelize; not only by reaching in to the ladies in our congregation, but also, by reaching out into the surrounding community, bringing honor and glory to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
With God's help this is the ministry that we will develop. Our kickoff event is scheduled for Saturday, November 13th. It's a get acquainted banquet. We have assigned a hostess to each table who will invite ladies from the church but leave a space or two for visitors and new members who will be personally invited to sit at her table. The hostess has chosen a theme, and will decorate and prepared food for the ladies at her table. The purpose of the banquet is to make those new ladies feel a part of our ministry. We will also be handing out a survey that will be vital to fulfilling the mission of reaching out by utilizing the gifts and talents of all the ladies in our congregation.
I will be following the development of this ministry on my blog and also giving words of encouragement to ladies as they strive to serve Christ in a deeper way.
Please look forward to these changes.
Thank you!
The study was based on a book by Susan Hunt called "Spiritual Mothering the Titus II mandate" I made all my own handouts for each chapter and spent a lot of time in study, prayer and preparation. The study involved 21 ladies.
As a direct result of the seven week study I got some definite direction from the Lord about something I've been praying for over 2 years.
The Lord has impressed upon me to start a women's ministry at Meadow Baptist Church like none we've ever had. We are not only going to be establishing discipleship, mentoring and more Bible studies for the ladies in our congregation, but we are also, beginning to reach out into the surrounding community to reach ladies in need there.
As the director of the "Connections" ministry, I am asking that you please join me in praying for a clear direction. I wrote the following mission statement and vision statement for the ministry:
Vision: As Christians we have a desire to see the women's ministry of Meadow Baptist Church become a beacon of hope to the lost, a source of strength for the fearful, a shelter for those seeking refuge, and a constant source of encouragement and acceptance. Our prayer is that every woman who enters our church will find a place of sanctuary where she feels unconditional love, peace of mind and an eternal spring of hope that is rooted in the faith that we share through the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ.
Mission statement: To create a ministry that touches the lives of women from the teens to our senior saints and serves as a tool to edify, educate, encourage and evangelize; not only by reaching in to the ladies in our congregation, but also, by reaching out into the surrounding community, bringing honor and glory to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
With God's help this is the ministry that we will develop. Our kickoff event is scheduled for Saturday, November 13th. It's a get acquainted banquet. We have assigned a hostess to each table who will invite ladies from the church but leave a space or two for visitors and new members who will be personally invited to sit at her table. The hostess has chosen a theme, and will decorate and prepared food for the ladies at her table. The purpose of the banquet is to make those new ladies feel a part of our ministry. We will also be handing out a survey that will be vital to fulfilling the mission of reaching out by utilizing the gifts and talents of all the ladies in our congregation.
I will be following the development of this ministry on my blog and also giving words of encouragement to ladies as they strive to serve Christ in a deeper way.
Please look forward to these changes.
Thank you!
Monday, April 19, 2010
I was doing my Bible study early this morning and connected to a website that was giving me the Hebrew pronunciation, definition and origin of the names of God. It was one of the most interesting things I've looked at in a long time. I am amazed at the way God uses language to express Himself to us.
I was lead to the website while studying for a ladies class that I will be teaching in June. The class will be on "Spiritual Mothering" not little children, but the Titus II spiritual mothering, as in the Older women teaching the younger women. In the book the author, Susan Hunt, in speaking of God's character, begins to give the definition of one of God's names "El Shaddai".
She began with the definitions of mother and mothering.
Mother: a female that has borne an offspring. A female who has adopted a child or otherwise established a maternal relationship with another person.
Mothering: to give birth to...to create and care for; instigate and carry through. To watch over, nourish, and protect.
Based on these definitions: Spiritual Mothering is when a woman possession faith and spiritual maturity enters into a nurturing relaitionship with a younger woman in order to encourage and equip her to live for God's glory.
Susan continues by stating this:
"God's relationship with His people forms the pinnacle for the spiritual mothering concept defined above." This is where the name "El Shaddai" comes in. I never knew this, but confirmed it this morning.
"The traditional translations of scripture have consistently rendered this name "Almighty." But to appreciate it's full flavor; it will be helpful to examine its Hebrew roots. El is a shortened form of "Elohim" which sets forth the might, the strength, and the excellence of God. This is where it gets interesting "Shad"is the Hebrew word for breast. Shaddai pictures God's fullness or bounty, his tenderness, his generosity, his desire to nurture us and make us fruitful. In one name "El Shaddai" God's attributes of might and tenderness are brought together.!" Isn't it wonderful to know that a God that is so powerful, also loves us so much that his tenderness toward us is comparable to that of a nursing mother. As a mother who nursed her babies, I can tell you that there is no other bonding relationship that is more precious.
Numbers 12-14 Since we are blogging through a chronological Bible these chapters in Numbers and the ninetieth Psalm were written together chronologically.
Dissension of Aaron and Miriam (12:1-16)
God commanded Moses, Aaron and Miriam to meet with him at the door of the tabernacle. There he came down in the cloud and caused Miriam to contract leprosy. They feared for her very life...Moses intervened in prayer and she was sent out of the camp for seven days and then allowed to return free of the disease. God is using Miriam and Aaron as examples here to show how seriously he judges those who would dare to speak out against a prophet. I don't pretend to know the heart or thoughts of God, but; it makes me wonder about an application for today. If we speak out against a man of God today, what would the consequences be? Could it be that this example was also set forth for us to be aware of our criticism of our pastor? I've heard some pretty harsh things said about pastors who did not deserve the wrath that was bestowed on them and I always wonder if and how God might judge the ones who are critical of him. After all he is God's man if he preaches the word, a modern day prophet, if you would...I am also reminded of the passage of scripture that describes the prophet Elijah, who was in a certain town and some of the local boys were taunting him and God sent a bear out of the woods to eat the boys.
My husband and I were at the home of one of our Sunday school students for an Easter sunset service. We were meeting by the lake and a missionary was sharing his testimony. The speaker had a microphone, so the sound was echoing across the lake where three or four little boys were playing. Right in the middle of the missionaries testimony the boys started to yell nasty comments across the lake. "Hey, you preacher man, why don't you just shut up?" and "We don't care what you have to say, just shut up." I was reminded of the little boys that God judged and terrified that a bear might appear any moment. I don't know if when or how, but I do believe that sin (of any kind) has serious consequences. That is however, up to God to judge, not us!
Spies Sent into Canaan (13:1-33)
One man from each tribe was sent out to spy on the land of Canaan. There they saw giants. They reported back to Moses and even though Caleb wanted to go and conquer the land immediately, the others were too afraid of the giants that lived there (they compared themselves to grasshoppers next to the giants).
Israel Refuses to Enter Canaan (14:1-10)
This was the land "flowing with milk and honey" that God had promised them.
Yet they refuse to trust Him to deliver it to them, even though He had promised to do so. Sounds so like us sometimes. (Oh ye of little faith)
Joshua and Caleb tried to convince the people that God was true to his word and that the land would be theirs. But the people wanted to stone them because they were so afraid.
Moses Intercedes for the People (14:11-25)
So, as has become the norm, God came down in the cloud before the people and basically said, "How long will these people reject Me? And how long will they not believe me, with all the signs which I have performed among them?"
In our terms God had had it with these people, He was tired of listening to their moans and complaints, because he had proven himself faithful to his word over and over again and the people still refused to trust him.
Death Sentence on the Rebels (14:26-38)
God spoke to Moses and told him that all those who went to spy on the land and came back causing the people to complain about Moses and fear to possess the land, (who were 20 years old or older) with the exception of Joshua and Caleb would die of a plague sent by God and would never be allowed to enter the land that God was prepared to give them. So, it was done...
A Futile Invasion Attempt (14:39-45)
There was great mourning in the land because of these deaths. But evidently they didn't get it still!!! They decided that it would be best if they now went to conquer the land. But Moses told them how foolish this would be because the Lord would not be with them. They still wanted to go their own way instead of God's way. So they went anyway and were attacked.
There is a lesson here for us. Sin doesn't pay.
One of my former pastors used to say:
Sin will take you further than you want to go,
Keep you longer than you want to stay,
and cost you more than you want to pay.....there's a lot of truth there.
The Bible says that the consequences of sin is death. Romans 6:23a
But it doesn't end there...God loves us, He mad a way "the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" Romans 6:23b. What a precious realization for us. We went from the "slaves of sin" to the "slaves of God" Romans 6:20-22
tells us "For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. What fruit did you have then in the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life." There it is, before Christ comes into our lives we are "slaves" to sin. But after salvation through the blood of Christ, we are "slaves" to righteousness. Willing slaves, might I add...praise God for his grace to us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8).
If you don't know Him personally, get to know Him. He loves you, He died for you and He wants to know you!!
I was lead to the website while studying for a ladies class that I will be teaching in June. The class will be on "Spiritual Mothering" not little children, but the Titus II spiritual mothering, as in the Older women teaching the younger women. In the book the author, Susan Hunt, in speaking of God's character, begins to give the definition of one of God's names "El Shaddai".
She began with the definitions of mother and mothering.
Mother: a female that has borne an offspring. A female who has adopted a child or otherwise established a maternal relationship with another person.
Mothering: to give birth to...to create and care for; instigate and carry through. To watch over, nourish, and protect.
Based on these definitions: Spiritual Mothering is when a woman possession faith and spiritual maturity enters into a nurturing relaitionship with a younger woman in order to encourage and equip her to live for God's glory.
Susan continues by stating this:
"God's relationship with His people forms the pinnacle for the spiritual mothering concept defined above." This is where the name "El Shaddai" comes in. I never knew this, but confirmed it this morning.
"The traditional translations of scripture have consistently rendered this name "Almighty." But to appreciate it's full flavor; it will be helpful to examine its Hebrew roots. El is a shortened form of "Elohim" which sets forth the might, the strength, and the excellence of God. This is where it gets interesting "Shad"is the Hebrew word for breast. Shaddai pictures God's fullness or bounty, his tenderness, his generosity, his desire to nurture us and make us fruitful. In one name "El Shaddai" God's attributes of might and tenderness are brought together.!" Isn't it wonderful to know that a God that is so powerful, also loves us so much that his tenderness toward us is comparable to that of a nursing mother. As a mother who nursed her babies, I can tell you that there is no other bonding relationship that is more precious.
Numbers 12-14 Since we are blogging through a chronological Bible these chapters in Numbers and the ninetieth Psalm were written together chronologically.
Dissension of Aaron and Miriam (12:1-16)
God commanded Moses, Aaron and Miriam to meet with him at the door of the tabernacle. There he came down in the cloud and caused Miriam to contract leprosy. They feared for her very life...Moses intervened in prayer and she was sent out of the camp for seven days and then allowed to return free of the disease. God is using Miriam and Aaron as examples here to show how seriously he judges those who would dare to speak out against a prophet. I don't pretend to know the heart or thoughts of God, but; it makes me wonder about an application for today. If we speak out against a man of God today, what would the consequences be? Could it be that this example was also set forth for us to be aware of our criticism of our pastor? I've heard some pretty harsh things said about pastors who did not deserve the wrath that was bestowed on them and I always wonder if and how God might judge the ones who are critical of him. After all he is God's man if he preaches the word, a modern day prophet, if you would...I am also reminded of the passage of scripture that describes the prophet Elijah, who was in a certain town and some of the local boys were taunting him and God sent a bear out of the woods to eat the boys.
My husband and I were at the home of one of our Sunday school students for an Easter sunset service. We were meeting by the lake and a missionary was sharing his testimony. The speaker had a microphone, so the sound was echoing across the lake where three or four little boys were playing. Right in the middle of the missionaries testimony the boys started to yell nasty comments across the lake. "Hey, you preacher man, why don't you just shut up?" and "We don't care what you have to say, just shut up." I was reminded of the little boys that God judged and terrified that a bear might appear any moment. I don't know if when or how, but I do believe that sin (of any kind) has serious consequences. That is however, up to God to judge, not us!
Spies Sent into Canaan (13:1-33)
One man from each tribe was sent out to spy on the land of Canaan. There they saw giants. They reported back to Moses and even though Caleb wanted to go and conquer the land immediately, the others were too afraid of the giants that lived there (they compared themselves to grasshoppers next to the giants).
Israel Refuses to Enter Canaan (14:1-10)
This was the land "flowing with milk and honey" that God had promised them.
Yet they refuse to trust Him to deliver it to them, even though He had promised to do so. Sounds so like us sometimes. (Oh ye of little faith)
Joshua and Caleb tried to convince the people that God was true to his word and that the land would be theirs. But the people wanted to stone them because they were so afraid.
Moses Intercedes for the People (14:11-25)
So, as has become the norm, God came down in the cloud before the people and basically said, "How long will these people reject Me? And how long will they not believe me, with all the signs which I have performed among them?"
In our terms God had had it with these people, He was tired of listening to their moans and complaints, because he had proven himself faithful to his word over and over again and the people still refused to trust him.
Death Sentence on the Rebels (14:26-38)
God spoke to Moses and told him that all those who went to spy on the land and came back causing the people to complain about Moses and fear to possess the land, (who were 20 years old or older) with the exception of Joshua and Caleb would die of a plague sent by God and would never be allowed to enter the land that God was prepared to give them. So, it was done...
A Futile Invasion Attempt (14:39-45)
There was great mourning in the land because of these deaths. But evidently they didn't get it still!!! They decided that it would be best if they now went to conquer the land. But Moses told them how foolish this would be because the Lord would not be with them. They still wanted to go their own way instead of God's way. So they went anyway and were attacked.
There is a lesson here for us. Sin doesn't pay.
One of my former pastors used to say:
Sin will take you further than you want to go,
Keep you longer than you want to stay,
and cost you more than you want to pay.....there's a lot of truth there.
The Bible says that the consequences of sin is death. Romans 6:23a
But it doesn't end there...God loves us, He mad a way "the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" Romans 6:23b. What a precious realization for us. We went from the "slaves of sin" to the "slaves of God" Romans 6:20-22
tells us "For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. What fruit did you have then in the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life." There it is, before Christ comes into our lives we are "slaves" to sin. But after salvation through the blood of Christ, we are "slaves" to righteousness. Willing slaves, might I add...praise God for his grace to us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8).
If you don't know Him personally, get to know Him. He loves you, He died for you and He wants to know you!!
Friday, April 16, 2010
Good morning all! I was reminded this morning, after receiving a lovely email from my daughter, how blessed I am. God has given me three wonderful children who love Him. The best thing is that all three of them know that God loves them and I can see God working in each of their lives to mold them into what He wants them to be. I thank Him every day for His wonderful blessings.
My excitement is building as I anticipate the birth of my first grandchild. He/She is not due until September, and the family lives in Portland, Oregon so we will be spending time immediately after the birth with them. Please pray for Ashley and Aaron as they become new parents. It is a huge responsibility both financially and spiritually. But God's timing is always perfect and this precious little one will be welcomed, nurtured and brought up to love God.
I would also ask that you pray for me. I have been experiencing some strange pains in my left leg and hip area. I will be making a Dr.'s apt. in the next week.
Numbers 8-11
Arrangement of the Lamps (8:1-4)
God had a plan for every aspect of the tabernacle to bring glory unto himself.
Everything was put in order just as God commanded it to be.
Cleansing and Dedication of the Levites (8:5-25)
The Second Passover (9:1-23)
Here, God reminds Moses, to remind the people to keep the passover, just as they had observed it the first time. If not their firstborn child would die. This shows just how seriously God wanted the people to keep His commandments and ordinances. This entire chapter is dedicated to reminding the people of this.
Two Silver Trumpets (10:1-10)
These trumpets were used to call the people to the tabernacle for meetings and worship, as well as calls to movement, or to march out into battle.
The sounding of both trumpets was a call to meeting or worship.
But if only one trumpet was blown it was a call to move or to go to battle, depending on the specific type of call.
Departure from Sinai (10:11-36)
It was time for them to move. If you remember, in earlier chapters, God had told the people who and how the tabernacle was to be packed up to move. He gave very specific instructions as to which tribes were responsible for every aspect of their journeying. In this chapter we see the process. The "cloud" is taken up from above the tabernacle (10:11) an indication from God that it was time for them to move. Then each tribe performed their specific duties; with the Levites taking up the tabernacle with the ark of the covenant going out before them for a three day journey (10:33).
The People Complain (11:1-15)
Well, here we go again. It's just like us today. God blesses and instead of being a nation of grateful followers, some choose to complain. Well, God takes this attitude of a lack of gratitude very seriously. In fact the Bible tells us in verse 1 that "...His anger was aroused. So the fire of the Lord burned among them and consumed some..." The fear of the Lord is a wonderful thing. It will preserve us not only unto good works, but also physically. May we be a grateful nation, God has blessed and preserved us!! When the people ran to Moses, he prayed and God had mercy and quenched the fire (11:2). God was still supplying manna for the people. But, again, they become dissatisfied with it and crave the meat and vegetables that were abundant in Egypt. The complaints turned into lust and the lust into an act of disobedience. Egypt was their old life and God had granted them a new life, and the promise of a wonderful land waiting at the end of the journey. Isn't this a beautiful picture of our journey to the beautiful place He has prepared for us at the end of our earthly journey?
The Seventy Elders (11:16-30)
These Elders were chosen from among the people to help bear the burden the people were putting on Moses. The moaning, hungers and grumblings were beginning to be more than Moses could bear alone (11:1-17).
Moses chose seventy men from among the tribes and met with them and God at the tabernacle and God came in the cloud and spoke to Moses and filled the 70 men with the spirit of the Lord. (11:24-27).
The Lord Sends Quail (11:31-35)
The elders were chosen, filled with the spirit, and warning the people about the consequences for their ungrateful hearts. So, God sent quail, those that lusted for the old life in Egypt gave in to the temptation, captured the quail and as a consequence of their disobedience to God, they died. This is also a picture.
A picture of God's judgment on those who choose sin (death) over obedience (life) (11:31-34).
The Bible is very clear on this in other passages as well. In James 1:14-15, we see the progression of the consequences of sin. First there is temptation, then a drawing away from the truth, (through mans own lusts) then there is enticement, (Satan's work). Then when lust has conceived (the embryo is death), it brings forth the sin, and after the sin, death. You can see the same process in the garden of Eden; Eve was tempted, then lusted after the fruit, Satan stepped in and enticed her further. When Eve gave in to the enticement of Satan, her own lusts brought her to the decision to disobey God, partake of the fruit and sin. After she and Adam sinned, they were condemned to death, spiritually and the the process of physical death also began as they were ejected from the place of perfection (the garden) into the place of contamination (the world). But, praise the Lord, that was not the end of the story. We were rescued from our sin. God's son, through his obedience to the will of his Father, made a way of escape for us. Salvation through his blood. And now, we are on our journey toward the land that has been prepared for us. Some day at the end of this earthly journey, we will be in our promised land, with the one who gave himself for us. Keep looking up...it won't be long!!!
My excitement is building as I anticipate the birth of my first grandchild. He/She is not due until September, and the family lives in Portland, Oregon so we will be spending time immediately after the birth with them. Please pray for Ashley and Aaron as they become new parents. It is a huge responsibility both financially and spiritually. But God's timing is always perfect and this precious little one will be welcomed, nurtured and brought up to love God.
I would also ask that you pray for me. I have been experiencing some strange pains in my left leg and hip area. I will be making a Dr.'s apt. in the next week.
Numbers 8-11
Arrangement of the Lamps (8:1-4)
God had a plan for every aspect of the tabernacle to bring glory unto himself.
Everything was put in order just as God commanded it to be.
Cleansing and Dedication of the Levites (8:5-25)
The Second Passover (9:1-23)
Here, God reminds Moses, to remind the people to keep the passover, just as they had observed it the first time. If not their firstborn child would die. This shows just how seriously God wanted the people to keep His commandments and ordinances. This entire chapter is dedicated to reminding the people of this.
Two Silver Trumpets (10:1-10)
These trumpets were used to call the people to the tabernacle for meetings and worship, as well as calls to movement, or to march out into battle.
The sounding of both trumpets was a call to meeting or worship.
But if only one trumpet was blown it was a call to move or to go to battle, depending on the specific type of call.
Departure from Sinai (10:11-36)
It was time for them to move. If you remember, in earlier chapters, God had told the people who and how the tabernacle was to be packed up to move. He gave very specific instructions as to which tribes were responsible for every aspect of their journeying. In this chapter we see the process. The "cloud" is taken up from above the tabernacle (10:11) an indication from God that it was time for them to move. Then each tribe performed their specific duties; with the Levites taking up the tabernacle with the ark of the covenant going out before them for a three day journey (10:33).
The People Complain (11:1-15)
Well, here we go again. It's just like us today. God blesses and instead of being a nation of grateful followers, some choose to complain. Well, God takes this attitude of a lack of gratitude very seriously. In fact the Bible tells us in verse 1 that "...His anger was aroused. So the fire of the Lord burned among them and consumed some..." The fear of the Lord is a wonderful thing. It will preserve us not only unto good works, but also physically. May we be a grateful nation, God has blessed and preserved us!! When the people ran to Moses, he prayed and God had mercy and quenched the fire (11:2). God was still supplying manna for the people. But, again, they become dissatisfied with it and crave the meat and vegetables that were abundant in Egypt. The complaints turned into lust and the lust into an act of disobedience. Egypt was their old life and God had granted them a new life, and the promise of a wonderful land waiting at the end of the journey. Isn't this a beautiful picture of our journey to the beautiful place He has prepared for us at the end of our earthly journey?
The Seventy Elders (11:16-30)
These Elders were chosen from among the people to help bear the burden the people were putting on Moses. The moaning, hungers and grumblings were beginning to be more than Moses could bear alone (11:1-17).
Moses chose seventy men from among the tribes and met with them and God at the tabernacle and God came in the cloud and spoke to Moses and filled the 70 men with the spirit of the Lord. (11:24-27).
The Lord Sends Quail (11:31-35)
The elders were chosen, filled with the spirit, and warning the people about the consequences for their ungrateful hearts. So, God sent quail, those that lusted for the old life in Egypt gave in to the temptation, captured the quail and as a consequence of their disobedience to God, they died. This is also a picture.
A picture of God's judgment on those who choose sin (death) over obedience (life) (11:31-34).
The Bible is very clear on this in other passages as well. In James 1:14-15, we see the progression of the consequences of sin. First there is temptation, then a drawing away from the truth, (through mans own lusts) then there is enticement, (Satan's work). Then when lust has conceived (the embryo is death), it brings forth the sin, and after the sin, death. You can see the same process in the garden of Eden; Eve was tempted, then lusted after the fruit, Satan stepped in and enticed her further. When Eve gave in to the enticement of Satan, her own lusts brought her to the decision to disobey God, partake of the fruit and sin. After she and Adam sinned, they were condemned to death, spiritually and the the process of physical death also began as they were ejected from the place of perfection (the garden) into the place of contamination (the world). But, praise the Lord, that was not the end of the story. We were rescued from our sin. God's son, through his obedience to the will of his Father, made a way of escape for us. Salvation through his blood. And now, we are on our journey toward the land that has been prepared for us. Some day at the end of this earthly journey, we will be in our promised land, with the one who gave himself for us. Keep looking up...it won't be long!!!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
I went through the Georgia, DMV tag line recently. And I was reminded how easily people can get worked up over something they don't understand or "think they understand" and want to push their opinions on others around them. As I entered the tag office there was a man asking each person who entered the building, "Have you filled out your census report and sent it back in yet?" I had to say "No". The gentleman was very nice and replied back "You need to get it in, we're waiting for you."
A man came in behind me and was asked the same question. This man however, replied "yes" and then proceeded to tell the other gentleman why he only filled in two of the questions. "It's an invasion of privacy" "It wasn't the original intent of the census to divide the country into districts, so that the democrats can make sure that certain ethnic or economic groups will be the majority, to insure that they vote for them". He had all kinds of reasons why he disagreed with the process.
Right behind him, a black couple came in and were asked the same question.
They replied "yes" very kindly and then were subjected to the constant negative comments of the man in front of them. As he continued to talk about the different races that "are so easily influenced" as he put it; it was obvious to me that the couple was very unhappy with the man's comments. Not to mention the fact that he was holding up the line. I was embarrassed that the man kept directing his comments to me, as if we were old friends. I finally succeeded, after several tries to get the man to change the subject. And I was certainly relieved when my turn finally came to get out of the line and purchase my tags.
The experience reminded me that not everyone is interested in my opinions and I pray that I am sensitive to those around me when I am expressing them. As Christians, we are called to be kind, meek, and Christ like. It is possible to share, even a passionate belief, in a way that is not offensive to those who may not necessarily agree with our views. On the other hand it is important for us to speak up when injustice is done. Jesus did teach us that...even He could "be angry and sin not." We are to be salt and light in a dark world....don't be silent, but do be Christ like!!
Numbers 4-7 These chapters not only deal with the census, but also designate the duties of specific families within the tribe of the Levites. Remember, from our previous studies, that the Levites were the tribe from which the priest were chosen. Therefore, the duties of these families revolved around the erection, operation, and disassembly of the tabernacle, and were described in detail.
Duties of the Sons of Kohath (4:1-20)
Duties of the Sons of Gershon (4:21-28)
Duties of the Sons of Merari (4:29-33)
Census of the Levites (4:34-49)
Ceremonially Unclean Persons Isolated (5:1-4)
Confession and Restitution (5:5-10)
Concerning Unfaithful Women (5:11-31)
This is very interesting to me. According to Nelson, the test described here in verses 11 through 33 was to prevent jealousy and suspicion. These verses describe the "law of jealousy." whereby a woman suspected of marital unfaithfulness had to be brought to the priest for trial before the Lord (v.16), who alone could reveal the truth of the matter; thigh to rot...belly to swell. Some physical disorder causing sterility (vs. 21,22,27). Ultimately, it appears that God must have miraculously controlled the results whenever this test was used. Nelson also believes that verse 27 could be referring to the miscarriage of a child. Also indicating that God's divine will was performed in the lives of those whether guilty or innocent of unfaithfulness to their husbands.
Neither the water nor the dust could by itself cause "the swelling of the belly" or the "rotting of the thigh". But God certainly could.
The law of the Nazirite(6:1-21)
A Nazirite (from a verb meaning "to separate or abstain") was a layperson of either sex who was bound by a vow of consecration to God's service for a specific period of time or in some cases for life. He could drink no fruit of the vine, could not eat grapes or raisins (vs.3-4), could not cut his hair (vs. 5) and could not defile himself by going near a dead person (vs. 6-7) These outward signs served as a public testimony of his dedication to God.
The Priestly Blessing (6:22-27)
Offerings of the Leaders (7:1-89)
This process must have been very important to the Lord. He dedicated 89 verse to the description of the offerings that were given by the leaders of each of the twelve tribes. The offerings were both orderly and abundant.
This chapter brings a thought to my mind.
"Everything rises and falls on leadership." How many times have you heard that? God commanded these leaders to bring specific offerings, brought to the temple by tribes in a specific order, and they were lavish. This beautiful display of love for the Lord was a shining example for the people. The leadership was setting the bar high so that the people would follow their example of gratitude to a God who preserved, protected and continued to provide for their needs in the wilderness journey. As long as they blessed God, He would in turn bless them. We see this throughout the Old Testament scriptures.
Let's follow their example. We must let our offerings to the Lord be lavish. We must let them be an example and a testimony to the fact that the Lord has blessed us so abundantly. I don't know about you, but I certainly have been blessed beyond what I deserve. I want my offerings to be a reflection of that blessing for the world to see...
A man came in behind me and was asked the same question. This man however, replied "yes" and then proceeded to tell the other gentleman why he only filled in two of the questions. "It's an invasion of privacy" "It wasn't the original intent of the census to divide the country into districts, so that the democrats can make sure that certain ethnic or economic groups will be the majority, to insure that they vote for them". He had all kinds of reasons why he disagreed with the process.
Right behind him, a black couple came in and were asked the same question.
They replied "yes" very kindly and then were subjected to the constant negative comments of the man in front of them. As he continued to talk about the different races that "are so easily influenced" as he put it; it was obvious to me that the couple was very unhappy with the man's comments. Not to mention the fact that he was holding up the line. I was embarrassed that the man kept directing his comments to me, as if we were old friends. I finally succeeded, after several tries to get the man to change the subject. And I was certainly relieved when my turn finally came to get out of the line and purchase my tags.
The experience reminded me that not everyone is interested in my opinions and I pray that I am sensitive to those around me when I am expressing them. As Christians, we are called to be kind, meek, and Christ like. It is possible to share, even a passionate belief, in a way that is not offensive to those who may not necessarily agree with our views. On the other hand it is important for us to speak up when injustice is done. Jesus did teach us that...even He could "be angry and sin not." We are to be salt and light in a dark world....don't be silent, but do be Christ like!!
Numbers 4-7 These chapters not only deal with the census, but also designate the duties of specific families within the tribe of the Levites. Remember, from our previous studies, that the Levites were the tribe from which the priest were chosen. Therefore, the duties of these families revolved around the erection, operation, and disassembly of the tabernacle, and were described in detail.
Duties of the Sons of Kohath (4:1-20)
Duties of the Sons of Gershon (4:21-28)
Duties of the Sons of Merari (4:29-33)
Census of the Levites (4:34-49)
Ceremonially Unclean Persons Isolated (5:1-4)
Confession and Restitution (5:5-10)
Concerning Unfaithful Women (5:11-31)
This is very interesting to me. According to Nelson, the test described here in verses 11 through 33 was to prevent jealousy and suspicion. These verses describe the "law of jealousy." whereby a woman suspected of marital unfaithfulness had to be brought to the priest for trial before the Lord (v.16), who alone could reveal the truth of the matter; thigh to rot...belly to swell. Some physical disorder causing sterility (vs. 21,22,27). Ultimately, it appears that God must have miraculously controlled the results whenever this test was used. Nelson also believes that verse 27 could be referring to the miscarriage of a child. Also indicating that God's divine will was performed in the lives of those whether guilty or innocent of unfaithfulness to their husbands.
Neither the water nor the dust could by itself cause "the swelling of the belly" or the "rotting of the thigh". But God certainly could.
The law of the Nazirite(6:1-21)
A Nazirite (from a verb meaning "to separate or abstain") was a layperson of either sex who was bound by a vow of consecration to God's service for a specific period of time or in some cases for life. He could drink no fruit of the vine, could not eat grapes or raisins (vs.3-4), could not cut his hair (vs. 5) and could not defile himself by going near a dead person (vs. 6-7) These outward signs served as a public testimony of his dedication to God.
The Priestly Blessing (6:22-27)
Offerings of the Leaders (7:1-89)
This process must have been very important to the Lord. He dedicated 89 verse to the description of the offerings that were given by the leaders of each of the twelve tribes. The offerings were both orderly and abundant.
This chapter brings a thought to my mind.
"Everything rises and falls on leadership." How many times have you heard that? God commanded these leaders to bring specific offerings, brought to the temple by tribes in a specific order, and they were lavish. This beautiful display of love for the Lord was a shining example for the people. The leadership was setting the bar high so that the people would follow their example of gratitude to a God who preserved, protected and continued to provide for their needs in the wilderness journey. As long as they blessed God, He would in turn bless them. We see this throughout the Old Testament scriptures.
Let's follow their example. We must let our offerings to the Lord be lavish. We must let them be an example and a testimony to the fact that the Lord has blessed us so abundantly. I don't know about you, but I certainly have been blessed beyond what I deserve. I want my offerings to be a reflection of that blessing for the world to see...
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Numbers 1-3
Census! Heard that word lately? If you live in America, that's almost all you've heard about (besides the health care bill) over the last few months.
Numbers chapter 1 begins with the first Census of Israel. In the Hebrew Bible, this book is entitled "In the Wilderness." The name "Numbers" comes from the Greek translation of the Old Testament and refers specifically to the census figures given in two census reports; Num. 7-1:2-46 and 26:2-51.
The content of the Book of Numbers is diverse, moving back and forth between lists and laws and narratives, making it hard to identify any single outline or structure. The book begins in the same vein as Leviticus, with more divine instructions from Mount Sinai, still stressing priestly matters. These laws conclude in ch. 10 and the Israelites set out for the Promised Land.
The people needed organization in order to reach that "land flowing with milk and honey." and God instructed Moses to take a census so that the people would be organized both for travel and for warfare.
The First Census of Israel (1:1-54)
God chose one man from each tribe to be in charge of getting his entire tribe together and counting the men who were 20 years and older (old enough to go to war) (1:1-4). God gave Moses the specific names of the men that were to be chosen from each of the 12 tribes to carry out the census (1:5-44).
There was one exception, the tribe of Levi was not numbered; they were the tribe chosen to be over the operations of the tabernacle (1:47-54).
The number of men in the other 11 tribes were 603,550 (1:45-46).
The Tribes and Leaders by Armies (2:1-34)
Each of the tribes was assigned a section of the camp.
These armies were designed to surround the camp for the purpose of sounding the alarm if an enemy approached from any side. The entire camp was surrounded by the various tribal armies.
The Sons of Aaron (3:1-13)
Census of the Levites Commanded (3:14-39)
This census was for every male from the age of one month and above (vs.14).
The Levites camp was located to the east in front of the tabernacle (vs.38-39)
There were 22,000 of them.
Levites Dedicated Instead of the First Born (3:40-51)
Offerings were taken from all the people and given to the Levites for the
operation of the tabernacle, this was a ceremonial offering for redemption (3:49-51).
Duties of the Sons of Kohath (4:1-20)
This family was part of the Levite tribe. Those from age 30 to 50 were counted. These men were given very specific duties concerning the taking down and carrying of specific parts of the tabernacle to get it ready to be moved. (vs.4-15)
They were to wrap and carry the "most holy things" (4:4)
They would die if they did not prepare and move things according to the Lord's commands (4:17-19).
Duties of the Sons of Gershon (4:21-28)
These men ages 30 to 50 were responsible for the curtains, the coverings, the screen for the door, the screen for the gate, hangings of the court, and all other things made of fabric and skins (4:25-26).
Duties of the Sons of Merari (4:29-33)
These men 30 to 50 were to carry the boards of the tabernacle, it's bars, its pillars, its sockets, and the pillars around the court with their sockets, pegs, and cords, and some of the furnishings (4:31-32).
Census of the Levites (4:34-49)
The Levite tribe was responsible for the packing up and moving of the tabernacle. We must remember that the tabernacle was made to be put up and taken down. Though it was a mammoth task, it could be done. Not only was it a large undertaking, but it was also very valuable with everything being covered in bronze or pure gold. If you remember our past study; each one of the furnishings was built with sockets and rings so that poles could be inserted to allow them to be carried. According to the above passages, these families of the tribe of the Levites were given commands directly from God, by Moses, to carefully pack and carry each part of the tabernacle to the next leg of their journey. If they followed God's direction, and worked together, a mammoth task became possible. What a great lesson here for us, the body of Christ. We have a mammoth task ahead of us. We are trying to reach a lost and dieing world.
We must work together, be organized and prepared for "travel and warfare".
The next leg of our journey is reaching those who need a Savior and as far as the warfare is concerned; you can be certain that Satan will be waging war against us, all the way!!
Census! Heard that word lately? If you live in America, that's almost all you've heard about (besides the health care bill) over the last few months.
Numbers chapter 1 begins with the first Census of Israel. In the Hebrew Bible, this book is entitled "In the Wilderness." The name "Numbers" comes from the Greek translation of the Old Testament and refers specifically to the census figures given in two census reports; Num. 7-1:2-46 and 26:2-51.
The content of the Book of Numbers is diverse, moving back and forth between lists and laws and narratives, making it hard to identify any single outline or structure. The book begins in the same vein as Leviticus, with more divine instructions from Mount Sinai, still stressing priestly matters. These laws conclude in ch. 10 and the Israelites set out for the Promised Land.
The people needed organization in order to reach that "land flowing with milk and honey." and God instructed Moses to take a census so that the people would be organized both for travel and for warfare.
The First Census of Israel (1:1-54)
God chose one man from each tribe to be in charge of getting his entire tribe together and counting the men who were 20 years and older (old enough to go to war) (1:1-4). God gave Moses the specific names of the men that were to be chosen from each of the 12 tribes to carry out the census (1:5-44).
There was one exception, the tribe of Levi was not numbered; they were the tribe chosen to be over the operations of the tabernacle (1:47-54).
The number of men in the other 11 tribes were 603,550 (1:45-46).
The Tribes and Leaders by Armies (2:1-34)
Each of the tribes was assigned a section of the camp.
These armies were designed to surround the camp for the purpose of sounding the alarm if an enemy approached from any side. The entire camp was surrounded by the various tribal armies.
The Sons of Aaron (3:1-13)
Census of the Levites Commanded (3:14-39)
This census was for every male from the age of one month and above (vs.14).
The Levites camp was located to the east in front of the tabernacle (vs.38-39)
There were 22,000 of them.
Levites Dedicated Instead of the First Born (3:40-51)
Offerings were taken from all the people and given to the Levites for the
operation of the tabernacle, this was a ceremonial offering for redemption (3:49-51).
Duties of the Sons of Kohath (4:1-20)
This family was part of the Levite tribe. Those from age 30 to 50 were counted. These men were given very specific duties concerning the taking down and carrying of specific parts of the tabernacle to get it ready to be moved. (vs.4-15)
They were to wrap and carry the "most holy things" (4:4)
They would die if they did not prepare and move things according to the Lord's commands (4:17-19).
Duties of the Sons of Gershon (4:21-28)
These men ages 30 to 50 were responsible for the curtains, the coverings, the screen for the door, the screen for the gate, hangings of the court, and all other things made of fabric and skins (4:25-26).
Duties of the Sons of Merari (4:29-33)
These men 30 to 50 were to carry the boards of the tabernacle, it's bars, its pillars, its sockets, and the pillars around the court with their sockets, pegs, and cords, and some of the furnishings (4:31-32).
Census of the Levites (4:34-49)
The Levite tribe was responsible for the packing up and moving of the tabernacle. We must remember that the tabernacle was made to be put up and taken down. Though it was a mammoth task, it could be done. Not only was it a large undertaking, but it was also very valuable with everything being covered in bronze or pure gold. If you remember our past study; each one of the furnishings was built with sockets and rings so that poles could be inserted to allow them to be carried. According to the above passages, these families of the tribe of the Levites were given commands directly from God, by Moses, to carefully pack and carry each part of the tabernacle to the next leg of their journey. If they followed God's direction, and worked together, a mammoth task became possible. What a great lesson here for us, the body of Christ. We have a mammoth task ahead of us. We are trying to reach a lost and dieing world.
We must work together, be organized and prepared for "travel and warfare".
The next leg of our journey is reaching those who need a Savior and as far as the warfare is concerned; you can be certain that Satan will be waging war against us, all the way!!
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