Through the Fire

Through the Fire - (Zechariah 13:9 And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God. - recorded in CadreBible 12/25/09 10:46 PM) Its never fun to be in the fire. The prospect of going through it causes me often to turn away. Without it, I will never become more than I am. Without going through the fire I can not be sanctified, I can not be purified, I can not be of more value to anyone. And why should I want to be of more value?

Gold has value. The purer the gold, the greater the value. The greater the value, the greater the desire to have it. Is that why I want to have value to others? Admittedly, that is in my flesh, but there is another reason.

Gold has value. The purer the gold, the greater the value. The greater the value, the greater the ability to give, to help, to encourage, to comfort, to guide. Why does God want to refine me? Why does God want to purge me? Why does God want to bring me through the fire? Oh, God, my Father, purge me that I may have more to give. Keep me safe from wanting to be desired, and cause me to be cheerfully used, spent as gold is meant to be used and spent for the good of those you bring me to.

Build

Build - (Zechariah 8:9 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Let your hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets, which were in the day that the foundation of the house of the LORD of hosts was laid, that the temple might be built. - recorded in CadreBible 12/22/09 8:27 AM) This message is pertinant today.  Those who here the word of the Lord as it is preached by the men whom our great God has called and ordained to preach the Gospel, the whole councel of the Lord. 

Let my hands be strong.  Those things by which I accomplish a work.  Let them be strong.  My hands grasp objects as my ear grasps words.  They must be strong to hold them.  My hands carry objects as my heart carries words.  They must be strong to endure the journey.  My hands deliver objects to the place they must go just as my mouth must deliver the words of life to the place they must go.  Strong hands are necessary to build the temple.  Let my hands be strong.

Let my hands be strong.  Don't make them be strong, but let them be strong.  How do I let my hands be strong without first making them strong?  Let God strengthen them.  Let the preaching of His word strengthen them.  Let the doing of that which He has shown me to do strengthen them (Jam 1:22-25, Heb 5:14, ).  Let my hands be strong.

Let the Holy Spirit do as He will through me.  Let Him convince the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment to come.  Quench not the Spirit  (1 Thes 5:19).  Grieve not the Holy Spirit of God (Eph 4:30).  Let my hands be strong.

What is the purpose of those strong hands?  That the temple might be built.  Not the temple of brick and mortar, but the church of Jesus Christ that He will build through hands He makes strong.

Pressing on,

Mark Hebert
Ps. 16:11
Praise God!

To Whom?

To Whom? - (Zechariah 7:5 Speak unto all the people of the land, and to the priests, saying, When ye fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh month, even those seventy years, did ye at all fast unto me, even to me? - recorded in CadreBible 12/22/09 8:00 AM) Seventy years of captivity to turn the hearts back to God.  In all that time, to whom did they fast?  Fasting is hard.  Whether its for one day, one week, or one month it is hard, and not an experience a person undertakes just for the fun of it.  So if they didn't fast to the Lord, then who?

Jesus makes it very clear.  In Matt. 6:1-8, Jesus reveals to whom the religious leaders fasted and prayed, to themselves.  Luke 18:9-11 again shows this truth.

Fasting and praying are religious activities.  Typically viewed as the highest of religious activities with Bible study being the third that is ranked with thbe first two.  If it is possible to do these unto myself, how more the activities of teaching and reaching the word of God?  How much more cleaning the church?  How much more visiting a bus route, driving a bus, or working on a bus?  How much more tithng or giving?  How much more attending church or not?  To whom do I do these things?

The hypocrites conducted their religious activities for only one reason; to be seen by men and held in reverence by them.  It is the same thing satan was going for back when he proclaimed he will be as the most High (Isa 14:12-14).  What is my purpose? 

Lord, cleanse me from all unrighteousness. 

Pressing on,

Mark Hebert
Ps. 16:11
Praise God!

Enter, Stand, Pass

Stand - (Joshua 3:8 And thou shalt command the priests that bear the ark of the covenant, saying, When ye are come to the brink of the water of Jordan, ye shall stand still in Jordan. - recorded in CadreBible 12/20/09 8:15 AM) The brink of the waters.  The trigger of troubles.  The start of sorrow.  The opening of obstacles.  The beginning of beatings.  Don't rush through.  Stand still.  Don't go one step deeper: stand still.  Don't turn and run: stand.  When you see it coming and know you must pass through it, enter and stand.  Those waters are there for God to be glorified and for me to learn of Him.

He has called me to a work of great proportions.  He has promised fruit and victory.  There are waters between me and the land of promise.  Enter, stand, pass.  God will not only stop the waters, but He will dry up the ground upon which I must tread.

Pressing on,

Mark Hebert
Ps. 16:11
Praise God!

The Midas Effect

The Midas Effect - (Haggia 2:14 Then answered Haggai, and said, So is this people, and so is this nation before me, saith the LORD; and so is every work of their hands; and that which they offer there is unclean. - recorded in CadreBible 12/17/09 2:31 AM) You remember the story of King Midas.  He was the guy that had a golden touch.  As the story is told, everything he touched turned to gold.  How cool would that be?  What is you needed or wanted?  Here let me pick up this sand... POOF!  Its now gold.  Gold dust, perhaps, but gold none the less.  You've heard the proverb, "One man's trash is another man's treasure?"  If you had the "Midas Touch" that would be your life.  Touch trash... POOF!  Its treasure; literally.

As the story  goes, King Midas was having great fun with his little talent until one day, he touched his daughter.  Can you believe it... POOF!  She became a gold statue.  Then he wasn't quite so pleased with himself.

We have a talent similar to King Midas.  That's right, the good King isn't the only one who can transform the quality of every object he touches.  Just like the king, we transform the quality of everything we touch whether we want to or not, and typically we don't want to.  You see, God prefaced the statement He made above with a couple of questions to the priests which they correctly answered.

Haggia 2:11-14  -  Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Ask now the priests concerning the law, saying, If one bear holy flesh in the skirt of his garment, and with his skirt do touch bread, or pottage, or wine, or oil, or any meat, shall it be holy? And the priests answered and said, No.  Then said Haggai, If one that is unclean by a dead body touch any of these, shall it be unclean? And the priests answered and said, It shall be unclean.  Then answered Haggai, and said, So is this people, and so is this nation before me, saith the LORD; and so is every work of their hands; and that which they offer there is unclean. (KJV - CadreBible)

Our talent, unfortunately is to defile everything we touch.  I know its a repulsive thought, and we immediately think of all sorts of people who "improved" the world around them, and truth be told, in my judgment those people were good people and did improve the world around.  Problem is, my judgment doesn't count.  I hate to be the one to say it, but niether does yours.  Its God's judgment alone that matters.  Here's some more statements He's made:

Isaiah 64:6 -  But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. (KJV - CadreBible)

Job 14:4 -  Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? not one. (KJV - CadreBible)

Jeremiah 13:23 -  Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil. (KJV - CadreBible)

Are you getting the picture?  Left on our own, we are in a great state of desparity.  We are defiled and unclean before the just, righteous, perfect, and holy God.  Nothing we can do can change that, it is not within our power to do so.  So I've done a good work, I had compassion on a person and gave them what they needed to go on and more.  The work was unclean and defiled as soon as I did it for no one can bring forth a clean thing from an unclean.  What do I have then to offer up to God in order for me to get to heaven?  Only unclean and defiled works.  Nay, even worse, filthy rags.

So I spent a good portion of my life devoted to raising my kids and doing all I could do, all I knew to do and endeavored to learn more, but even this is as a filthy rag for I did not, could not, love them as God does.  I did not teach them the ways of God, the statutes of God, the path of God as He commanded.  I tried sometimes, and somteimes I did not.  Who can bring a clean thing from an unclean?  No one.

Arguing with me won't change anything.  Joining forces in agreement with others won't change anything.  Shunning God and removing any mention of Truth from your life won't change anything.  We may satisfy ourselves that we have argued and won, but its only an illusion.

Why would God make such a statement?  He must be mean.  On the contrary.  He loves us too much too let us wonder around in the darkness that exists outside of truth.  God's not saying that to insult anyone.  He's not saying it to brag.  He's simply alerting mankind to the fact that we can do nothing good.  God does not delight in punishment. 

Ezekiel 33:11 -  Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel? (KJV - CadreBible)

All our ways are evil.

So what is the answer?  God's love; mercy and grace.  His love in His desire to give us the kingdom of heaven.  His love in that in order to do so, He had to put the wages of sin on the sinnless Son of man so that we could escape eternal destruction.  His mercy in that we are not consumed already.  His grace in that while we can not generate the righteousness He requires for us to enter into heaven, he freely offers His own righteousness to us through the deathe, burial, and resurection of His only begotten Son.

Of course, if a person insists that the Bible is not the very Word of God, and clings to the lie that they can be as God, then they will never truly accept the payment Jesus has made for them, and thereby reject the gift of eternal life He purchased for all.  What say ye?

Pressing on,

Mark Hebert
Ps. 16:11
Praise God!

Confusing Confession?

I Fear the Lord?

- (Jonah 1:9 And he said unto them, I am an Hebrew; and I fear the LORD, the God of heaven, which hath made the sea and the dry land. - recorded in CadreBible 12/5/09 7:05 AM)

Really? How do I fear the Lord? When I make such a statement, what do I send a confusing message to those who hear it? Here is Jonah in open rebellion against God, running from His command to preach the Gospel, saying he fears the Lord. As an outsider looking in, that makes my head spin.

I wonder, how does my life, my works, my thoughts, my vision, my meditation, my love, my direction, and my obedience say about my profession. When I tell people that I am a Christian, does there head spin in an attempt to reconcile what they see in me with what they just heard, do they say, "Ah, that explains it," or is there no reaction at all; as if I were neither hot nor cold?

Seperate Loves

KJV: II Chronicles 8:11. And Solomon brought up the daughter of Pharaoh out of the city of David unto the house that he had built for her: for he said, My wife shall not dwell in the house of David king of Israel, because the places are holy, whereunto the ark of the LORD hath come.

I see that I do this with my sins. There are certain things that I love to do, or think about, or see, or hear, or whatever, but I can't allow those things in the holy places. They can't occupy the same space as those things which are holy to God. I must separate the two. That means building a "house" and the expense and sacrifice involved in that, for my "wife" or sin to dwell in. There I can sustain her, there I can provide for her, there I can keep her out of view and out of contact with the holy things in my life. Then I can read my Bible a little easier, I can pray without being convicted as much, I can certainly hide her from other Christians. When I spend time with God, "she" isn't around to interfere or embarrass me, but...

She calls to me. She has a way of reeling me back in. To be sure, she doesn't want to have anything to do with the holy things around me except contaminate them and turn my heart from them. I must turn to answer her call, and in so doing I turn away from God. In order to spend time with my mistress of sin I must intentionally and knowingly walk away from God. I can not spend time with both my "wife" and my God. I enter into the house I have built for her; the secret place in my heart to which I alone have the key. God calls, but I ignore Him. I open the door to her house and without turning to look outside, even forcefully closing my eyes as if to block out the Light, I close the door. There's just a twinge of regret as I shut the door on the One who loves me and spend time with the whore who's ways lead to hell.

I can't spend time with both. I can't be in the holy place where God resides and spend time with this "wife". I should choose more wisely. I must divorce myself of this sin, burn down the house I have built her, and remove any possibility of going back. I must set my heart on God that my joy, my pleasure, my hope, my contentment, my sustenance, everything comes from Him. If I learn to love the Lord MY God with all my heart, all my soul, all my mind, and all my strength, there is no room for anything else. So the question is, "From whom shall I be separated, the Egyptian wife, or the Lord MY God?" Only a fool would choose the former. God my Father, grant me wisdom.

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Silent King

1Kg. 1:1-53

David was old and ill equipped to reign. His strength was gone and needed someone to be next to him just so he could stay warm. his health was failing and it was obvious that he would not live much longer. His effectiveness as king had gone the way of his strength. He was silent on many issues. His voice was not heard, his face was not seen throughout the kingdom as it once was. Where is the king? Is he still alive? Is he sick? Is he on a trip? Decisions had to be made. Life still went on. Who will guide this nation? All the people wondered who would be king.

I've felt like that before. God is silent. I can't find Him. He does not speak to me in my prayer time, I do not hear His voice in my Bible study and devotional time. As I go through the day I am unaware of the presence of God. Is He with me? Is He watching? What does He want me to do? Where should I go?

Adonijah had the answer. My father is very sick and won't live much longer. The kingdom will most assuredly be mine. I have been blessed with a strong and handsome appearance. I am intelligent and a natural leader. I am the head of my siblings, as Absalom my full brother was, so will I be. No doubt I am to be king of this great nation and rule in my father's stead. What were his motives? God doesn't say, so it does not matter. King David had not publicly appointed his successor.

Decisions have to be made. Life goes on. What will I do? My King is silent. I know, I'll set myself up as my king. I'll take matters into my own hands and determine my own course. Wrong.

Many people followed after Adonija. Joab, the captain of the host gave himself to follow him. Abiathar the priest likewise did so. These two leaders led many others to do so as well. When the decision was made to follow this self appointed, charismatic, self assured leader, all thoughts of David went away. The people were happy in their decision and rejoiced before their new king.

There was, however a remnant who knew this was not David's choice. They grew concerned that the king's true will would go undone and presented their cause to him. The king answered and took immediate action. The celebration appears smaller. The coronation of Solomon was not as well attended, but the noise of it and the affect of it reached even into the celebration of Adonijah. When the people heard that they had been following the wrong man, they were afraid and scattered. Adonijah himself was terrified.

Those who waited were lifted up, and although troubled in the beginning, will not be again. Those who were rejoicing and seemed so happy following the wrong man are scared and fleeing and missed the coronation of the true king.

Which will I be? Adonijah who made his own decisions when the king did not make his known? The people who followed one who seemed so confident and born into the position, or the remnant that stood by the king, prompted him for an answer, and waited for it to be handed down and fulfilled?

Daniel waited 21 days for an answer. Saul didn't wait out the appointed time. They had two completely different results.

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Responsibility

2Sa 11:1-4
And it came to pass, after the year was expired, at the time when kings go forth to battle, that David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the children of Ammon, and besieged Rabbah. But David tarried still at Jerusalem. (2) And it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed, and walked upon the roof of the king's house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look upon. (3) And David sent and enquired after the woman. And one said, Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite? (4) And David sent messengers, and took her; and she came in unto him, and he lay with her; for she was purified from her uncleanness: and she returned unto her house.


I need a break. I'm tired, I've worked hard, I just want to take the day off. To be by myself, no worries, no concerns, no distractions, no responsibilities. Freedom from all those things that cause me to put forth effort, focus, concentration, energy. I've felt that way before, and doubtless will feel that way again. Usually it's not a desire to be relieved of all responsibility. In fact it rarely is. Just one or two in particular. Just some break from the routine, the monotony of it all.

That's all David wanted. Just a little break. "Look Joab. I'm not going with you this year. I'm taking a break. I've fought Israel's battles from the time I slew Goliath till now. I've got other responsibilities as king and the burden of war along with all the administration and duties of the kingdom are wearing me down. I'm going to lighten my load this year. You take the army out and here's where I want you to go."

David got the distraction he was looking for. The ease and carefree time he wanted was right there. What should I do with this time I have? Ahh, I'll relax and enjoy it. Rather than perform the king's duties, David took a nap in the afternoon, and waking, looked for something to occupy his time. I'll find some way to bring pleasure rather than work to myself. As his mind wandered aimlessly, so too did his eye. The price was more than he bargained for.

God gives rest to His saints in His time. When I take more than He gives, I will pay more than I want. Go to work when it is time. Rest when it is time. Don't confuse the order. Sin is lurking at the door. Slothfulness leads to deeper sins. Is it any wonder Jesus said that we are to take up our cross daily (Lk.9:23)? Lord help me to fill my life with Your work.

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Seems Good

Ps. 16:4
Their sorrows shall be multiplied that hasten after another god: their drink offerings of blood will I not offer, nor take up their names into my lips.

Sin is such a sneaky thing. I have found in several instances and almost on a daily basis that I am pursuing after another god. The days I have no notice of this are probably days that I was blind to it. Jer. 17:9 tells us that our flesh is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? Often, even when I think I'm serving God, walking in the Spirit, somewhere in the back of mind is the thought of how this action could benefit me in this life. People will look up to me, respect me, give to me. The results of this activity will make me popular, advance me, get me promoted. Sometimes it doesn't happen while I'm being used of God, it will creep in later. I can not pursue my own lusts and God's purpose. To serve my self is idolatry. When I obtain the things I seek, even basic things such as food, and do so while serving myself I give myself the credit for it and deny God.

As I pursue other gods, my sorrow will be multiplied. How? God won't hear my prayers, my name He will not speak. The joy of the Lord will depart from me and rather than blessings, I will have chastisement. I am such a fool so many times, and deceived so readily by my own heart that before I know it I am removed from God and turned unto idols.

Where is the joy I once had? Why are my sorrows multiplying? Why isn't God listening to me? Could it be that I have departed from pursuing Him and am chasing after another god? Is the thing I thought was good to pursue chasing after an idol? Search me, oh God, and know my thoughts, try me and know my heart, and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Ps. 139:23-24 Reveal to me the error of my ways and show me the right path, the path of life, that I may walk therein.

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Exploding Joy

Ps. 35:10
All my bones shall say, Lord, who is like unto thee, which deliverest the poor from him that is too strong for him, yea, the poor and the needy from him that spoileth him?

Looking for God's salvation from my enemies gives joy. Just the anticipation that He hears me and will take action on my behalf gives me strength to go on another step, another hour, another day. I don't go beyond the day. I think it's too painful to imagine how hard a week of oppression may be. Since God's mercies are new every morning, and not every week, month or year, and Jesus told us not to be concerned about tomorrow, I think it best to only look on today. I plan for the future, but I worry about it much less than I used to.

I remember the conversations with the other kids at school. "My dad can beat up your dad." Girls didn't have that conversation. For them it was, "My mom is prettier than your mom." I never heard any of them say, "My mom cooks better than your mom," or, "My mom cleans house better than your mom." How about this, "My mom kisses boo-boos better than your mom." That's the one right there. When comes to kissing boo-boos, my mom was a pro. I gave her lots of practice.

David has a big boo-boo. Actually he has a big enemy and it doesn't matter what he does, says, or how far he runs he can not get away from this mighty oppressor. There is only one thing to do, one place to go, and that is directly to God. In verses 1-3 David is in a literal fight and in need of a Champion to fight on his behalf. He pictures God, my Father (praise God - I can say that!) as a great and mighty warrior who takes up the weapons of war. I can see God take hold of the shield and buckler as my faith is increased in Him; my confidence in His salvation grows, and my fears begin to subside. He is set for my defence. He slowly draws out the spear, a weapon meant only for offence, and I can hear the sound of metal running against metal as He looses it from its resting place as He stands between me and my enemy. He looks back toward me and says, "I am thy salvation." Don't go anywhere, don't trust anything, but "I am..." I can't loose!

As I remember that, and continue to bring my prayer before God, pleading my cause I start to look forward to how it will be when He saves me from this most recent attack of my enemy. I think about the past victories He has given me and His promises of protection for the future. I know how I will react when He frees me this time. In verse nine I begin to experience it. My soul begins to rejoice, the joy of the Lord my God begins to grow, as a light that continues to grow brighter and brighter against the blackness of space until its so bright that I can not tell from where it's source is as it explodes into whiteness that consumes everything around me. It so strong that even my bones cry out in joy saying, "Lord, who is like unto Thee?" Ah, yes! That joy which can not be contained comes only from the Lord, and is with me even in the presence of mine enemies (Ps. 23:5)

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Good Courage

Psa 31:24
Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.

For most people, myself included, courage follows strength. Although I have always been athletic and picked up sports fairly easily as a kid, I never grow to the size and strength of most of my peers. Typically the smaller and less muscular kid, I lacked the confidence that many of them had. In recent years I began working out with regularity and fending off the effects of old age. That activity had an affect on my physical appearance that I rather liked. As it improved, so too did my confidence. Just under a year ago I spoke with a young man who had been working out over a good portion of his life. He said that his size always caused him to lack confidence, and although he's still short and does not appear "bulked up" he is surprisingly strong and that physical ability has increased his confidence. God says strength follows courage, not the other way around. Maybe I should quantify that, strength follows GOOD courage.

This is Webster's definition of courage from the 1828 Webster's Dictionary:
"Bravery; intrepidity; that quality of mind which enables men to encounter danger and difficulties with firmness, or without fear or depression of spirits; valor; boldness; resolution. It is a constituent part of fortitude; but fortitude implies patience to bear continued suffering."

I like fortitude. That sounds like a great study, but this one is on good courage. So then courage is that unique ability to face danger with the confidence that we shall over come. It would seem that I would have to have some ability within myself to do that, hence the fact that our courage is generally directly tied into our ability whether it is strength of mind, muscle, or some other thing. But God didn't say to have courage. He said to be of good courage. He told Joshua that several times (Deut 31:6-7, 23; Josh 1:6, 9) ; remember? In each of these He said to "Be strong and of a good courage". I've often thought that it would be cool for God to say the same thing to me. He did in those passages, and He does directly here. Why a GOOD courage?

In Matt. 19:16-17 a man came to Jesus and said, "Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?" Jesus addressed a theological error he had when He said, "Why callest thou me good? There is none good but one, that is, God:" What is a GOOD courage? In our society, indeed the world we have abused and misused the word, good. As Jesus pointed out here, the word can not apply in anyway to any man or act of man. What is GOOD courage? It is a courage that is comes from not my ability, possessions, or as H&R Block would say "people", but is based on God. GOOD courage is a courage that comes from knowing, trusting, and living in Christ.

Be of GOOD COURAGE. Look to God, trust God, believe God, walk with God, keep God's ways, stay in God's path, and DO even in the face of "negative" consequences. Not because I think I can pull off a victory, but because I know that God WILL! When I do that, God shall strengthen my heart. I'm out of time to complete this. When God strengthens my heart He gives me the ability to go forward. To continue through the circumstance with fortitude.

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Thank God for Enemies

Psa 59:1-9
To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David; when Saul sent, and they watched the house to kill him. Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God: defend me from them that rise up against me. (2) Deliver me from the workers of iniquity, and save me from bloody men. (3) For, lo, they lie in wait for my soul: the mighty are gathered against me; not for my transgression, nor for my sin, O LORD. (4) They run and prepare themselves without my fault: awake to help me, and behold. (5) Thou therefore, O LORD God of hosts, the God of Israel, awake to visit all the heathen: be not merciful to any wicked transgressors. Selah. (6) They return at evening: they make a noise like a dog, and go round about the city. (7) Behold, they belch out with their mouth: swords are in their lips: for who, say they, doth hear? (8) But thou, O LORD, shalt laugh at them; thou shalt have all the heathen in derision. (9) Because of his strength will I wait upon thee: for God is my defence.


While David was on the run from Saul he wrote many psalms. Most are prayers that are now shared with the world. If you wondered if journaling was Biblical, wonder no more. David kept a journal of his relationship with God and how all the major events of his life affected that relationship. I have no doubt that there are many more writings of David that are not God breathed and therefore not preserved, but if the man after God's own heart kept a journal doesn't it make sense for a person who wants to be a man after God's own heart to keep one as well? That's all a "by the way" moment. Following are my observations.

One of the psalms David wrote while Saul sought his life is this one, Ps. 59. Verses one through seven tell of David's straight and pending peril. He has no strength to fight against Saul and his men. David had defeated a bear, a lion, a giant, 200 Philistines at one time, and I don't know how many total, but to fight against his own nation and the king who was anointed by God, he could not do. There are many members in the church who patiently take the criticisms, cuttings, and comments of fellow church members because they have a heart like David's I see it happen with Christian school kids and youth group members as well. This is a great mark of spiritual maturity. Gossip and idle talk are the enemy's tools.

Regardless of whether David could not or would not take matters into his own hands, the enemy caused him to draw nigh unto God. Verse 9 says, "Because of his strength will I wait upon thee: for God is my defence." Who's strength? I believe David is referring to Saul's strength. It is because Saul is stronger than David (consider the size of Saul's army compared to David) that he waited on God. Thank God for the strength of my enemies being greater than my strength. If it were not so, I would not learn of God and His mighty power to save. If David is saying "Because of God's strength I will wait on thee," the thought is still the same. I need God's strength to win this victory. I can not defeat this enemy without Him.

I will wait upon thee: and wait David did. Even when God presented David the opportunity to avenge himself of his enemy, he deferred to wait on God. How long must I endure? Until God is finished preparing me. How long must I endure? Until I have learned of God what He desires to give me. How long must I endure? Until He has prepared me to receive the great gift He desires to give me? How long must I endure? Until I KNOW and will not deny that it is God who brings the victory. How long must I endure? Until I learn to accept God's will, whether it appears good or bad. How long must I endure? Until, as David did, in the midst of my enemies I can sing of God's power (vs. 16-17). How long must I endure? Until my faith is increased, I am come deeper into the presence of God, and He only becomes all that I need. Thank-You Father for my enemies, for my adversities, for my weakness, for Your strength, and for Your teaching, training, and preparing me.

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Shall I...? Wilt Thou...?

2Sa 5:17-19
But when the Philistines heard that they had anointed David king over Israel, all the Philistines came up to seek David; and David heard of it, and went down to the hold. (18) The Philistines also came and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim. (19) And David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the LORD said unto David, Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand.

The testing and preparation are over. David is now king over all Israel and from the day of Saul's death has grown mightier and mightier; experiencing victory after victory. It seemed that nothing could go wrong, no defeat was possible, and everything he touched turned to gold. The Philistines heard of David's latest promotion to be king over all Israel, and as satan generally does, they decided to go after the head of the people of Israel. Smite the shepherd and the sheep will be scattered (Zec. 13:7).

David seems almost arrogant in his response. "Oh yeah?" I can hear him say, "Well if they want me, I'll just go give them what they want." No hesitation, no plans, no concern, no counsel, just, "Let's go swat this mosquito."

David has made his decision. He and his men are camped at the hold. The Philistines are there and camped on the other side. The battle is sure to follow and David turns to God and says, "Shall I go up to the Philistines?" What? You're already there! The Philistines are there! Isn't it a little late to ask God if you should? Aren't you past the point of no return? Wouldn't you be bringing shame upon yourself, God's people, and God Himself if you turned away now? What if God says no?

Here's what I generally do. "Hey God, I'm going to go up against the Philistines. I sure hope you'll give me victory." In other words, "God, here's my will. I'm going to follow my will. Bless my will. Never mind Yours" Never mind means exactly that. I won't pay any mind to Your will, Your purpose, Your command.

When I have an idea at work to do something outside of my normal scope, I call my boss, inform him of the idea, ask his opinion, and then get permission to either pursue it or drop it. Why don't I do the same thing with God? David knew that God would give him victory over all his enemies, so why not just go, get after the battle, and return? Remember Akin and the fall at Ai (Jos 7:1-5)?

Regardless of how sure I am it is God's will, I would do well to remember to ask God, "Shall I...?" "Shall I go to this area and build a bus route? Shall I go to this person and seek this thing? Shall I set my schedule to do this or that? Shall I, shall I, shall I?" I am His servant, shall I usurp His authority in anything?

One more question, "Will You..." The two seem synonymous. It's almost an unneeded question. Wouldn't God give me victory if He sends me? What if God said, "Go, and I will deliver you into their hands." Would I go? Nope, I would pray and fast. Then again, Paul asked God if he could go to Rome, and God essentially said just that, "Go and I will deliver you into their hands." (Acts 21:7-14). It was the vehicle by which God would use to put Paul where He wanted him.

If David had confidence before asking, how much more after seeking God's will and hearing, "Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand." Two things, 1) Go: it was a command. I love it when God commands me to do something I want to do (Ps 37;4), and 2) No doubt I will give you the victory. When I have absolute confidence that God will bring victory, I go about the work with a greater fervor.

"Shall I...? Wilt Thou...?"

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Hang On David!

1Sa 26:5-11
And David arose, and came to the place where Saul had pitched: and David beheld the place where Saul lay, and Abner the son of Ner, the captain of his host: and Saul lay in the trench, and the people pitched round about him. (6) Then answered David and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah, brother to Joab, saying, Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp? And Abishai said, I will go down with thee. (7) So David and Abishai came to the people by night: and, behold, Saul lay sleeping within the trench, and his spear stuck in the ground at his bolster: but Abner and the people lay round about him. (8) Then said Abishai to David, God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand this day: now therefore let me smite him, I pray thee, with the spear even to the earth at once, and I will not smite him the second time. (9) And David said to Abishai, Destroy him not: for who can stretch forth his hand against the LORD'S anointed, and be guiltless? (10) David said furthermore, As the LORD liveth, the LORD shall smite him; or his day shall come to die; or he shall descend into battle, and perish. (11) The LORD forbid that I should stretch forth mine hand against the LORD'S anointed: but, I pray thee, take thou now the spear that is at his bolster, and the cruse of water, and let us go.

Saul's sordid little story takes a while to get through. God did not intend for Israel to have a king. His desire was to be the sole provider and ruler of His people through the prophets. We see Samuel used mightily of God but his children failing to walk in the same path. Previous to him was Eli who's sons brought much wickedness to the temple and caused the people to abhor the offerings. Could it be that the nation lost confidence in God's people and as they looked at the nations about them saw what they believed was stability in kings? Samuel argued against a king, but the people demanded it. Finally God told him to allow it and anoint the person who he has chosen.

Saul is chosen. The people thought he was a great choice for he was physically impressive. He was humble and afraid to take the position. In time he became comfortable in it and pride started to take him. It seems he believed that not only was he entitled to the position, but his sons after him were also. He failed to fulfill God's command in completely destroying the Amalakites, but saved the best of the people and flocks. From that point God was no longer with him. In fact God rejected him from being king (1Sam 15:23). From that point forward we see a man in anger, pain, worry, desperation, and helplessness. It simply does not pay to get outside of God's presence.

Enter David Jesseson. Okay, I made up the last name. Enter David, the son of Jesse. A man after God's own heart. A boy, really at the time he was anointed and not yet ready to be king. God chose him. Saul is being overcome by evil spirits and needs someone to play skillful music. God has given David a remarkable musical talent and he is taken to the king to play for him when the evil spirit comes upon him. David kills a Goliath when no one in the king's army would do it. He's still very young, but full of faith in God. Israel rejoices and in essence praises David above Saul. Saul is now jealous and knows that David will one day have the kingdom. Too bad. They would have made a dynamite team; especially when you add Jonathon to the equation. God needs no one, He wants just one willing man (Ez. 22:30)

He makes several attempts to kill David and as he goes about to do so, loses more and more of what he did have to David. His daughter loves David, his son loves David, the nation loves David, God loves David. As I read through the account I notice that David is heartbroken and distressed over Saul's treatment of him, but every time Saul attempted to harm him, God did two things: 1) He protected him from harm, even though it was a close call on several occasions, and 2) He gave David some comfort, usually from something, or more accurately someone of Saul's.

As the attacks grow more and more intense, David finally flees and Saul begins to hunt him down. Twice God delivers Saul into Davids hands and David could easily have killed him and been free from his enemy and taken the kingdom. He refused, even at the insistence of his own men. Twice Saul rebukes himself in public and sharply, even saying he's played the fool and speaking great kindly words to David. Finally David runs to the camp of the Philistines. Its a sad day when God's people bring such strife among the brethren that they flee and find solace and sanctuary in the camp of the enemy. Was David right in going there? I don't know and I don't care to judge that. The greater thing is that Saul certainly was not right. There are people in the church, many even leaders, who would chase away a David because they are afraid he would take their position. Oh that we would all be focused on Jesus Christ and our ONE desire would be to come ever closer to Him! Ps. 133:1 "Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity."

Saul had been appointed king and God had rejected Him from that position. God did not hide that fact from Saul. Saul added to his rebellion in that he rebelled against God's decree that he should no longer be king. David had been anointed king and though he no doubt felt he was ready when God had delivered Saul into his hand, he refused to make things happen on his time table, choosing rather to accept God's.(1Sam. 26:9-11). Are you a David? My heart goes out to you. I know a David even today who is struggling with this very thing. It is hard to have God's own people turn against you. It's even harder when they appear to be in a leadership position, even if it is a self appointed one.

David's statement in verse 10 of chapter 26 is simple. I see no vengeance in it, only understanding of God's will and total acceptance of it. Young man, young lady, wait on God to remove those who would destroy you. YOU ARE GOD'S CHOSEN VESSEL!!! How cool is that!? Don't run to the enemy, run to God for your solace and sanctuary. Only He really understands you. He loves you and He wants you to come to Him. Praise God; He is using these events in your life to bring you closer to Him and to prepare you for the great thing He has planned for your life. I know it's hard to be strong now. I know it breaks your heart. I know you want it all to go away. I beg of you, cry; literally cry unto God. Go into your prayer closet with no one around, and weep before Him, pour out your heart to the God of all comfort (2Cor. 1:3-5), and realize the joy He has for you.

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Wait

1Sa 13:8-9
And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel had appointed: but Samuel came not to Gilgal; and the people were scattered from him. (9) And Saul said, Bring hither a burnt offering to me, and peace offerings. And he offered the burnt offering.


Some times, trials last forever. When I'm going through them it seems that forever is not a strong enough word. Impending doom is just over my head, waiting to drop the bomb and then destruction. I begin to feel like the foolish man who built is house on the sand just before the storm cut loose and wrought great destruction (Matt. 7:24-25). The really long, hard trials tend to be those that haven't even happened yet. Trials like certainty of being picked on in school.

I remember one of those harsh hazings. I was in 8th grade at shop class. One of the students had a pair of "high water" pants on. These were really high. The cuff of the pants didn't even cover the calf of his leg. Of course someone noticed and the questions began. "Where did you get those from?" "Why are you wearing those?" "What, have had them since the 4th grade?" His final attempt to end the questioning and teasing was that he and his brother shared a room and he put his brother's pants on by mistake. That wasn't good enough for me. I pursued and accused him of either being a liar or an idiot because there was no way he could put on a pair of pants in the dark and not realize that they were only half the size he should be wearing. Other kids joined in until finally, mercifully, one of the more popular boys stood up said, "Ah, come on guys, don't pick on him." Everyone stopped and I noticed an amazing look of sincerity in the rescuers eyes. I looked over to the boy we had been teasing and saw great relief in his eyes. I began to think, "Man, you really went overboard and this kid is right. You should've stood up for him." As I was convincing myself of my wrong doing, the would-be defender added, "He can't help it if his mommy dresses him funny!" The whole room broke out in laughter, and the boy who was the object of this teasing slipped away. I know he dreaded going to his next class for fear of the comments and teasing he would take there. I'll bet that was the longest day of his life.

Saul had a long week and the last day of it was proving to be one of those 72 hour days. Ever have one of those? I don't know who commanded the sun and the moon to stand still, but apparently Joshua isn't the only one to have done it (Josh. 10:12). The enemy looked unbeatable, disaster was certain to come. His men had left him. His support group was gone. God's man was not here yet and the day was almost over. Rather than wait for God, he broke under the pressure and took matters into his own hands. He was trying to make it seem that everything was alright and God was going to bless his decisions. Saul had an idea how things should go, God had different ideas. Saul decided not to wait. That decision was the beginning of the end of his kingdom.

Wait on the Lord. Job loss? Family problems? Bills piling up? Feel like running? Kid's not falling in line fast enough? Got a real pressure cooker going, huh? Don't blow it. Action must be taken! Not now. The Philistines haven't come upon me and although it seems inevitable, I am unharmed at the moment. How far will God allow this situation to continue? Why does it matter? Its in God's hands. How about if I just trust Him not only with what will happen in the future (a future I have no real knowledge or control of), but what the results of the events will be also. Taking matters into my own hands shows a lack of trust in my Father in heaven.

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Discernment

1Sa 3:2-10

And it came to pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, and his eyes began to wax dim, that he could not see; (3) And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep; (4) That the LORD called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I. (5) And he ran unto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And he said, I called not; lie down again. And he went and lay down. (6) And the LORD called yet again, Samuel. And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And he answered, I called not, my son; lie down again. (7) Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, neither was the word of the LORD yet revealed unto him. (8) And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And Eli perceived that the LORD had called the child. (9) Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou shalt say, Speak, LORD; for thy servant heareth. So Samuel went and lay down in his place. (10) And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth.

Samuel labored in the house of the Lord. He worked with the man of God and served him day and night. He was being brought up in and taught the ways of the Lord, yet he did not yet know Him. Many people are going to church, taking part in religious services, working in the church, giving of their treasures, time, and talent in service to the Lord. Many are learning the ways of the Lord and are constantly seeking to understand, yet they are as Samuel and do not yet know the Lord, neither has the word of the Lord been yet revealed to them. Oh, they've read the Bible, heard the preaching, even done what people have told them to do including praying a prayer, yet they do not know the Lord, nor has His word been revealed in that they have understanding and more importantly faith in His Word.

This word Samuel did not yet know refers more to the calling of God. He did not know how to discern the voice of the Lord from that of anyone else. It is through reason of use that I have my senses exercised to discern good from evil. Samuel was having his senses exercised and he had a man of God to direct him in it. When I am in doubt or unsure of whether it is God who is calling me or something else, ambition, pride, desire to help where there is a perceived need, someone elses prompting, or some other thing I must go to the man of God for help. It may be the voice of the Lord, it may not be. I don't want to miss the call. What if Samuel had missed this one?

I wonder if, as a leader in the church and in my family, I am failing to see God's call in the lives of those to whom I am called to serve. Eli perceived it here and directed Samuel in how to answer the Lord. It took three times, but he still saw it. Am I as observant, as watchful, as discerning? It may be to the ministry, but it may be to another area. I must be sober and vigilant. I must be ever attentive not just to teach them, but for what God is doing in their lives and help them to see it. "It is the Lord. Go do what you were doing when He called you, and if He calls again say, 'Speak, Lord; for Thy servant heareth."

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All

Jdg. 10:7-8; 15-16

7-8 And the anger of the LORD was hot against Israel, and he sold them into the hands of the Philistines, and into the hands of the children of Ammon. (8) And that year they vexed and oppressed the children of Israel: eighteen years, all the children of Israel that were on the other side Jordan in the land of the Amorites, which is in Gilead.

15-16 And the children of Israel said unto the LORD, We have sinned: do thou unto us whatsoever seemeth good unto thee; deliver us only, we pray thee, this day. (16) And they put away the strange gods from among them, and served the LORD: and his soul was grieved for the misery of Israel.

Israel had lost eighteen years to hard bondage. They were very sore distressed. Ammon didn't come after them because they were serving other gods. Ammon had their own reasons for oppressing Israel. God allowed Ammon to succeed with their plans because Israel was serving other gods. Israel had to come to a place of severe distress and anguish before returning to the Lord, and the first time they came they had not reached the point of repentance that would do it.

How much do I have to lose for no profit before I decide to give it to God? I don't want to be as Israel was here and be so sorely oppressed physically that my misery grieves the soul of God. I don't want to suffer the loss of all things, or anything because of punishment or chastisement. I want to understand that there is more to be gained. I want to move forward, ever closer to my great and mighty Saviour, motivated by perfect love for Him. Oh that the soul of God would be grieved for the misery of my soul that I am not completely united with Him! Oh that I would be in misery over that as Israel was in misery over their physical oppression and the heart of God would be moved to bring me closer. Oh that God would carry me to that place where I know only Him!

I don't want to give all to get away from pain, suffering, torment, bondage, oppression; I want to give all to gain Him!

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Abound

Rth 2:8-10

Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from hence, but abide here fast by my maidens: (9) Let thine eyes be on the field that they do reap, and go thou after them: have I not charged the young men that they shall not touch thee? and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of that which the young men have drawn. (10) Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?


How God has abundantly blessed and encouraged me! this may be more of a praise than a Bible study, but how refreshing are my God's mercy and His grace to me. I see here a picture of what my Lord has done for me. I came to His fields, not knowing who He is. I did not even know that I was in His fields, only that I did not have a right to anything I had got. God took notice of me. He came to me and said:

1.) Hold fast what you Hear. Hearest thou not? His voice was not harsh and rebuking, but kind and full of love. I expected and deserved rebuke for I was nothing more than a thief and a beggar taking that which did not belong to me. I could not help but listen further for fear, wonder, and awe that He would speak to me.

2.) Feed in only my Field. Go not to glean in another field. I'm sure there were some that looked more attractive, possibly bigger fields in which one could easily reason that there was more to be gained. Maybe the grain appeared to be more abundant, or she had heard of how much others had come away with from the other fields. Go not to glean in another field, for I will care for you. Go not to glean in another field, for I have taken notice of you. Go not to glean in another field, for you will be well cared for here. Stay separated.

3.) Walk with the Wise. Abide here fast by my maidens. They know my care, they know my ways, they know my supply, they know me. Stay with them. Walk with them, talk with them, learn from them. By this I will learn more of God. Listen to those who are further along the path to His presence. Stay with the man of God, walk with the wise, be enlightened from the elders.

4.) Watch where they Work: Let thine eyes be on the field that they do reap. The work may be hard, the temperature hot, the ground unforgiving, but watch where they work. Focus, meditate, do not let your eye, and therefore your mind wander. Don't be distracted, you will find all you need where they work.

5.) Follow the Faithful: and go though after them. These are the faithful laborers who I have sent out into my harvest. The harvest is great and they are gathering the fruit that remains. They will receive the rewards of their labor. I want to give them these rewards, and I want you to receive them as well. Go thou after them, glean. Learn to share the Gospel. They have done the hard part, I offer you the fruit of their labors, only go thou after them.

6) Provided Protection: Have I not charged the young men that they shall not touch thee? None can even approach you while I will not allow it. By My word they come, by My word they go. By My word they rebuke, and by My word they allow. You will be protected with my people.

7.) Refresh in My Resources: and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of that which the young men have drawn. What is it you need? I have provided. Come, drink freely of the waters of life! It is here, drawn for you. Come immediately. Don't wait until you are parched, but simply thirst. When the need, nay only the desire to comes, drink of the water freely.

My response was as Ruth's. My joy is overwhelming. To think that God has welcomed me with such open arms and freedom in His fields. To think that I, who was a stranger and deserved only His judgment have been favored not only with His mercy and allowed to survive, but that He has given me abundant grace and encourages me to live!

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Abundant Life

Ps. 16:11

Thou wilt show me the path of life, in Thy presence is fullness of joy, at Thy right hand are pleasures for evermore.

Thou wilt show me the path of life,

*THOU: God must show me the path. Man can not. He uses men to do it, but God Himself reveals the path by His Holy Spirit through preaching.

*WILT: Not might, may, should, or could. It is a definite thing. He WILL show me the path of life. The question is, Will I open my eyes and walk in that path?

*PATH:
1) There is only one. There are many religions. There is only one path of life. It does not matter what men say, what I think, or what I want to be right. God is in control, He is truth, and no one can approach Him but by His terms. Would a man succeed in visiting the President of the United States without following the proper protocol? How much more important is God and therefore His protocol than the President? Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man cometh unto the Father but by Him (Jn. 14:6)

2) A path continues. It does not stop. Once I see the path it does me no good unless I get on it. Once on it, I receive no continued benefit unless I walk in it. Salvation is a great thing. It puts me on the path and I have the blessed hope of spending eternity with God, my Father, and Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son and my Saviour. Could it be that there is more to receive than that? YES!!

He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? (Rom. 8:32) THAT'S INCREDIBLE!! Salvation is not the end, but the beginning!

*Life:
What is life?

Anger? Pain? Suffering? Stress? Hatred? Hopelessness? Loss? Lack? Defeat? Frustration? Bondage?

These things are in what we call life. They are indeed a part of our physical life, but they are not life. These things are death.

What is life?

Peace. Joy. Contentment. Love. Hope. Abundance. Victory. Rejoicing. Freedom.

Oh yes! I know of no one who would argue that these are the things that make up life, real life! Not that I need anyone to agree, but to live in the misery of the first is not living at all. To live in the best of the second is not only life, but abundance of it.

In Thy presence is fullness of joy,

I remember as a six or seven year old boy (not that I was ever a six or seven year old girl) a trip my parents had planned to go to my Grandma's. Like any six or seven year old (boy or girl) I loved Grandma, and there was nothing as exciting as going to Grandma's; especially when she lived far enough away that I could only see her once or twice a year. Grandpa's are cool too, but Grandma's, well they're hard to beat. I was excited! That's actually an understatement. I was obnoxious. Well, I was more obnoxious than usual. I knew about the trip for weeks, and as the days grew nearer and weeks became days, I got more and more obnoxious, I mean excited. I remember the day before my parents had planned to go, I asked my mom if we were leaving yet. 'Tomorrow," she said, and patted my handsome face (I bet you like the way I slid that little comment in).

Tomorrow! WOW! Only one more day! Like most parents, mine believed in getting the kids up before the rooster crowed, loading everyone and everything up in the station wagon, and heading out by 4:00am. I don't know what it is about 4:00am, but parents are drawn to it. The next day, I was up before they were. I ran inside their bedroom, jumped up on the bed, and wild excitement and enthusiasm asked, "Is it tomorrow yet?!" It's a good thing my mom thought it was cute, my dad wanted to throw me through the wall.

That, my friends, is joy. On very rare occasions, when circumstances are just right, and the day of the week doesn't end in "y", we can feel that joy in the world. I have found a way to feel it all day, every day, regardless of whether or not it ends in "y" or any other letter. It's not through winning the sports game, gaining the promotion, getting the award, winning the girl (boys only here) or getting the boy (that's for the ladies who are reading this). There is literally nothing on earth that has ever given me this intense pleasure. NOTHING, and I have really been excited at times. The secret? It's in God's presence. It is the most amazing thing I have ever experienced.

At Thy right hand are pleasures for evermore.

At Thy right hand. When I look over there, what do I see. More accurately, Who do I see? Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour!

Are pleasures. Oh, what's that? In Him was life, and the life was the light of men (Jn. 1:4). This then is the message that we have heard of Him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all (1Jn. 1:5). What is life? All the good things, none of the bad. In Jesus Christ are pleasures that we have yet to experience.

For evermore.
These things will not fade or pass away. Whatever it is in the world that I may be seeking will pass away. The Bible says it (1Jn 2:16-17), which is enough for me. But just in case it wasn't, or isn't, I have seen this over and over again. That great new toy I got for Christmas when I was 8, 18, and if I live to be 80 will cease to be the source of happiness it once was in very short order. Then what? I want more, and what will I give to get it? The things of the world pass away and cost me far too much to get. However - The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and He addeth no sorrow with yet (Pr. 10:22).

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Trade 'Ya

Ruth 1:10-14

And they said unto her, Surely we will return with thee unto thy people. (11) And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands? (12) Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have an husband. If I should say, I have hope, if I should have an husband also to night, and should also bear sons; (13) Would ye tarry for them till they were grown? would ye stay for them from having husbands? nay, my daughters; for it grieveth me much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD is gone out against me. (14) And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.

Sales professionals are often taught that people make purchases for only one of two reasons: they wish to gain a benefit, or they wish to avoid a loss. Every purchase I make involves giving up something. When I have money in my hand (or bank account), I have the ability to purchase anything that amount of money will be. Usually that's no more than a pack of gum, and the way this economy is headed it won't be long before I'll only be able to afford to lick the wrapper, but I digress. I can hold on to that money and save it against an emergency, or I can add more money to it so I can buy more things, or add to my "security" in the future. I can also spend it up. It's a trade off. Is the benefit I will gain, or the loss I will avoid greater than the loss of what I currently have? Every decision I make involves this process. Its a constant trade off.

Naomi's daughters in law both originally set out to leave their homeland, friends, family, and all that they knew to follow Naomi to Israel. A land of which they knew nothing other than what Naomi and their husbands had told them, where they knew no one other than Naomi, and had no possessions. Why? Why would they trade what they had in this land, for that?

Naomi removed one reason. "You will not have a husband by me," which is akin to saying, "There is no provision for you with me." Orpah kissed her mother in law and returned to her own land. Nothing more is said of her. She lived her empty life and died. That's all.

Ruth clave to Naomi. Once again Naomi attempted to rid herself of this woman. "Telling her she had no future with Naomi didn't work, maybe she'll follow the crowd and my voice with that of her sister in law will convince her to stay," Naomi thought. It was to no avail. Where Orpah was looking for provision, Naomi had something else in mind.

vs 16 - 17 "And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me." Ruth wanted God. Ruth wanted to be with God's people. Ruth wanted to live and to die in the presence of God. She esteemed the blessings of God far greater than the treasures of earth. What ever she must endure, she was willing to go through. Nothing was worth trading for the riches to be had at the hand of God. God blessed her. She had a full life, even being used in the lineage of Jesus Christ, and when she died entered into an abundant life.

It reminds me of Moses. Heb 11:24-26 tells us that he valued the reproaches of Christ to be more valuable than the riches of Egypt.

I heard a preacher once say, "Show me the reason you got into the ministry, and I'll show you the reason you'll get out." Why am I doing what I am doing? If it is for anything in this world, including the praise of man, I will get out when it ceases. Only one reason will outlast them all, the glory of the riches of Jesus Christ.

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King Killing

Jdg. 8:18-21

Then said he unto Zebah and Zalmunna, What manner of men were they whom ye slew at Tabor? And they answered, As thou art, so were they; each one resembled the children of a king. (19) And he said, They were my brethren, even the sons of my mother: as the LORD liveth, if ye had saved them alive, I would not slay you. (20) And he said unto Jether his firstborn, Up, and slay them. But the youth drew not his sword: for he feared, because he was yet a youth. (21) Then Zebah and Zalmunna said, Rise thou, and fall upon us: for as the man is, so is his strength. And Gideon arose, and slew Zebah and Zalmunna, and took away the ornaments that were on their camels' necks.


Jether had gone to battle against the Ishmaelites with Gideon, his dad. He had fought, pursued, and probably killed some of the soldiers. They were men like unto himself. In battle, it is kill or be killed. When sin reigns in our mortal bodies, and the destruction within ourselves begins to show forth we will fight with the intent to kill. I think about my dad and the health struggles he had.

He was diagnosed with diabetes late in life and when it was discovered his blood sugar count was actually high enough that it had put other people into a coma. He was treated at a hospital, and put on an insulin regimen. My dad didn't like the idea of being bound to insulin. He was convinced that it had led to the early death of other men in our family and decided he would beat this thing without the drugs.

He kept meticulous records of his blood sugar levels. He conducted extensive research into what foods, and activities contributed to a high blood sugar count, he put together a simple plan, stuck to it, and lived insulin free. I remember in the early stages of his fight he and my mom had come to Texas to visit us. After dinner one evening it was decided that a blackberry cobbler was in order and not having any in the house, we went to the store to buy one. Dad came with so he could help us pick out something that he could eat. The desert isle of Wal-Mart is not a good place for a diabetic to be. As we perused the goodies, looking for a tasty, sugar free treat and meeting with failure after failure, my dad finally said, "I'll tell you what, why don't you guys get whatever you'd like, and just sit there and suck my thumb." I laughed so hard I drew a crowd. I think we decided to eat some unleavened bread for desert and went home. I thank God for my dad. I miss him sometimes.

He experienced victory over the diabetes and he did not stop at the troops, but went right on to slay the kings. He was convinced of the danger of even a slight dependence on insulin and slew his foe down to the last man, even when his life was not in imminent danger.

My dad also smoked for as many years as I knew him. It contributed to his heart attack, and after experiencing the severe pain, brush with death, and miserable hospital stay he decided that he would no longer smoke. He did not want to have to go through that again. I just knew he would succeed with this as well. He did, for a time. He experienced success, victory as it were over the troops. When it was immediate life or death, he fought with gusto and determination. When the battle appeared to be over and the danger passed, he would not kill the kings. Years later he contracted lung cancer. Complications from that took his life.

I learned a lot from my dad. He was quite a man. I used to be taken back when I looked in the mirror and saw him staring back at me, or when I would realize that I had done something exactly like he would, now I smile. There are a whole lot worse things I could be than my dad, but that's a different study all together.

Jether had gone to war, fought and killed the enemy while his life was in danger. It no longer was in immediate danger and he feared to kill the kings. Why? Simply because he was a youth. What was he afraid of? I don't know. What are our children afraid of when they stop fighting against sin, and fail to completely separate themselves from it? Loss of friends and no replacement? An increase in enemies who will taunt and tease them? Loss of respect from parents, teachers, coaches, peers? What do I fear when I fail? Loss of money and ability to obtain things I want and need? Loss of respect from those who know me? Loss of popularity? Loss of power? Loss of enjoyment, fun, and happiness? Why don't we slay those kings?

It takes maturity to understand the danger to our lives these seemingly helpless kings present. Our children need our help. Are they involved with a group friends who enjoy things that are sinful? My child may not take part in it, but unless that king is slain they will. Sever that relationship. Are they watching things on TV or playing video games that encourage, teach, or glorify any manner of sin? Destroy it for them.

And what about me? What about when I fear and will not rise and kill the kings? Get someone who can and will. It may be an accountability partner, it may be a loved one, it may be my pastor, deacon, or friend in the church, but those kings must be destroyed.

Luk 11:24-26 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out. (25) And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished. (26) Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first.

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Passing Batons

Jdg 2:8-13

And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died, being an hundred and ten years old. (9) And they buried him in the border of his inheritance in Timnathheres, in the mount of Ephraim, on the north side of the hill Gaash. (10) And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, which knew not the LORD, nor yet the works which he had done for Israel. (11) And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and served Baalim: (12) And they forsook the LORD God of their fathers, which brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods, of the gods of the people that were round about them, and bowed themselves unto them, and provoked the LORD to anger. (13) And they forsook the LORD, and served Baal and Ashtaroth.


A relay race is typically a series of short sprints conducted by generally four runners on a team that are competing for the fastest time with other teams. Each runner carries a baton that must be handed off to the next runner on the team before that person can begin his or her sprint. There is a short window of opportunity where the runner with the baton can pass it on to the next runner. Within this window the person taking the baton is also running, and extends his hand backwards to receive the baton from his team mate. The challenge is that the baton must be passed before the new runner crosses a certain point.

The Christian life is often compared to a race (1Cor. 9:24-26, Gal. 2:2, Gal. 5:7, Php. 2:16, Heb. 12:1) and we have a responsibility to train our children to run in this race. Not only train them, but prepare them (Deu 4:9-14; 6:1-7, Pr. 22:6, Eph. 6:4). Because of these two truths, preparing our children for the race they must run has been compared to the passing of the baton between runners. I believe following this analogy in life to be detrimental to the spiritual well being of our children.

There arose a generation that knew not the Lord. That reminds of another passage. Exo. 1:8, "Now there arose up a new king over Egypt, which knew not Joseph." This king knew who Joseph was. Everyone who lived in Egypt knew who Joseph was for they all had to come to him in order to live. Further, there would have been stories for generations beyond of this time in Egypt's history. Not only would he have known who Joseph was, he would have also known what Joseph did, but he knew not Joseph. He knew of Him, but did not know him. He did not experience in his heart the things that had occurred. He may have gone with his parents to get food from Joseph, but he did not credit him for sustaining them. He refused to accept Joseph and his works.

This new generation of Israel would have known of God. Their parents, who walked in the law of God would have been careful to teach them about the things God had done in their lives. They would have been careful to take them to the feasts and times of worship and explain to them why they do what they do. The would have taken them to the pillars of stone erected in remembrance of crossing the Jordan river. They would have taken them to Jericho and shown them the walls that fell down and explained to them how God had caused them to simply fall down flat. They would have taught them the Bible and would have made sure that they only played with and fellowshipped with other Israelites. So what went wrong?

The baton was passed. It had no meaning to new runners and was therefore, discarded.

In a relay race, the next runner in line watches as his team mate approaches him. At the right time he begins to run, attempting to time his running so that he is almost at full speed at the time the baton is handed to him. The baton represents faith. We can't transfer our faith in one "hand off" to our children. It can't happen in an instant, and it can't happen with just one method. In order for our children to continue in this race, they must run it with us, not simply watch us and when it's their turn take off. This is much harder.

Initially we must carry them with us as we run. Explaining to them what we're doing, why we're doing it. As we see God's hand in our life we must do our best to cause them to see it also. As kids we're naturally inquisitive and filled with awe at everything we see. This is the time to lock into their minds that all this was done at the hand of a wonderful Creator. Here they begin to experience what HAS been done.

Eventually they learn to walk, then begin to run on their own. Not as well as we, so we must stop, run backward, hold them up, and bandage a skinned knee from time to time. We can not pick them up and carry them through this time. It is here that they learn to experience God for themselves. It is during this time that they begin to understand and to see His hand in their lives. It is here that they begin to KNOW the Lord. Bringing them to church, having family devotions, putting them in Christian schools, all this is great, but it does not give them the experience with God. How do we run with them?

Teach them to carry their cross. We can't just hand it off to them. They can't handle the full load of it in one shot regardless of their age. No wonder so many teenagers get away from Mom and Dad, graduate school, move on to another area, and shake off the weight we "handed" off to them. HEY, the world is so much more fun and a whole lot less weight! At least as far as they have experienced.

Run with them. Shoulder the weight of their cross as Jesus does ours. His yoke is EASY His burden is LIGHT. Do they have a tough decision to make? Don't answer it. Guide them in it. Give them a little weight, let them feel the cross, touch the baton as it were. "Let's see what God says about that, Junior." Take them to the Bible, have them read the passage, have them interpret it (with your guidance), have them make the decision (with your guidance). Watch as they implement the decision, see what God does. Initially they will need you to show them, point it out to them. As they learn this process, they will learn to see God in their lives; they will begin to know God.

This observing God in their lives begins with an observing Him in our lives. They won't see Him if we don't explain, "Guess what God did today!" or "I know things are tough right now for our family. It's because God is transitioning us from where we are now, to where He wants us to be. It will be a much better place."

This topic deserves far more time and attention than I have here. I fear I have not done enough of this with my children. It's time for my son to run his race.

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When I am Strong

Jdg 1:28
And it came to pass, when Israel was strong, that they put the Canaanites to tribute, and did not utterly drive them out.

When I am strong I feel like I can conquer the world. Strength comes in several different forms. I can be mentally strong and strive toward a goal no matter the opposition I encounter on the way. I can be emotionally strong and over come one loss after another, never being adversely affected or brought down by the outward circumstances that weigh so heavily on others. I can be physically strong and be able to lift and carry hundreds of pounds over great distances, or run several miles in short amounts of time. These are all good things. I can be spiritually strong so that no temptation can affect me, no doubt can sway me, no false teaching can influence me, and I can conquer all sin. Strength is a welcomed gift. It is also a fleeting gift. Strength will fail at some point. It may not fail permanently, but it will fail. If I have not used the strength God has given me when He has given it to me for the purpose He has given it to me, not only will I lose the strength I once had, but I will suffer great losses of other things along with it.

I think about an alcoholic who believes he can control the booze. "I don't have to drink," he says. "I can quite anytime I want to." Okay, quit now. "I don't want to." The sad thing is, initially I could quit anytime I wanted to. I was truly strong enough to do it. Initially I could control when I drank and for a very brief period, how much I drank. It's the same with any addiction. Nicotine, alcohol, drugs, sex, anger, violence, gossip, greed, power, they're all the same. There is a very brief time that I am strong and truly can conquer these things. If I choose to make these or any sin serve me, I am setting myself up for failure. When I am strong, God has given me that strength to rid the land of the inhabitants thereof. When I am strong God has given me that strength to redeem the time. When I am strong God has given me that strength to fully break the bonds. If I don't, when I am weak I will be enslaved.

Allowing the inhabitants of the land to stay in the land was the beginning of Israel's down fall. Sin does not serve anyone. It acts like it for a while. As it appears to serve me and bring me pleasure, and ease; as it seems to satisfy my desires and fulfill my wishes and wants, it is deeply embedding it's roots into me. It starts to take my strength and turn it into dependence. The roots of that thing get so deeply embedded and so closely intermingled with me that it becomes impossible to separate me from it without a great deal of pain. I begin to take on the characteristics of this one time servant and the affects of it's presence in me begin to show. Broken relationships, loneliness, health problems, instability, and unmet needs are just a few of the outward manifestations. I can cover it up for a while, but that only prevents others from seeing it, adds to the lie that I am in control, and strengthens the grip it has on me.

Is there a "racy" magazine in my house? Is there a certain billboard, television show, book, or other Canaanite that dwells in my land? It won't serve me. Is there a secret stash of booze, a certain pill, a can of chemicals, that "helps" me get through a difficult time? It won't serve me. Is their a certain person, a questionable relationship, a secret conversation that makes me feel good? It won't serve me. The real problem is there's a hold on my heart and I must remove it from the land that God has given me lest He send and angel and I realize too late the consequences.

Jdg 2:1-3
(1) And an angel of the LORD came up from Gilgal to Bochim, and said, I made you to go up out of Egypt, and have brought you unto the land which I sware unto your fathers; and I said, I will never break my covenant with you.
(2) And ye shall make no league with the inhabitants of this land; ye shall throw down their altars: but ye have not obeyed my voice: why have ye done this?
(3) Wherefore I also said, I will not drive them out from before you; but they shall be as thorns in your sides, and their gods shall be a snare unto you.

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Empty

Jn. 20:11-1

(11) But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre,
(12) And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.
(13) And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him.
(14) And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus.
(15) Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.
(16) Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.

I have often told the story of the little girl who received a precious gift from her father. He had been away on a trip and while he was gone he bought his wife a beautiful pearl necklace. She wore the necklace at every possible occasion and when someone remarked of their beauty, she would happily tell of the love her husband had for her. Their daughter observed all of this and wanted a set of pearls of her own so she could brag on her Daddy. One day he returned from work with a a fake set of pearls of the little girl. She loved them like they were real. She wore them everywhere and if no one noticed or said anything about them, she pointed them out. She only took them off before going to bed because her mom made her do it.

One day her dad returned from work and after dinner asked his daughter to give the pearls back to him. She refused. "No Daddy. You gave these to me and I love them. I'll never give them away to anyone." This went on with varying responses from the little girl for several weeks. The only explanation she received from her dad for the request was, "Because I want you to give them back to me." Each day he would ask only once, each day she refused, each day she wondered, and each day she grew a little more sad at her selfishness. One day her father's plea seemed to be a little more urgent, and his expression a little more painful when his daughter refused yet again to give up her most cherished possession. She went to her room and began to sob deeply. How could she continually refuse her dad? He gave them to her because he loved her. She now understood the love she was showing her daddy. What did she love more?

Having made up her mind, she went back downstairs and gave the pearls to her dad. "I'm sorry I made you sad," she said. "I love these pearls because you gave them to me, but I love you more." Very pleased with his daughter's decision the dad told her to hold out her hands and in them he placed a brand new, real set of pearls. "I've had these to give you from the very first day I asked you to give me your fake set," he said. "But I couldn't give them to you until your hands were empty and your heart was free to care for these as you did the first ones."

Mary did not want to lose the body of Jesus. She loved him in life, and continued to do so in death. He was taken away from her and all she had was His body, and now it too was gone. To us it seems strange that she would weep at the empty tomb, we know the whole story. Mary didn't. She grieved this additional loss and sought to be restored from it. If she had been granted the body of Christ in the tomb, we would not have the great gift of eternal life He has given us.

What is the good thing that I need to let go of today in order to gain the great thing that God has for me? What loss have I endured and sorrow after that I must endure to receive the better gift God has for me? If Mary would have been so wrapped up in her sorrow as not to here the Lord, she would have missed seeing Him. What God gives us to help in one part of our journey, only hinders us at the next. If I look for God in the midst of a loss, I'll find He has something much better for me.

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