Judges 20-21

Insight into Scripture

In today's story they refer to "Left handed slingers" (20:16) for battle. This may have been a special group of ambidextrous warriors.Today, we finish with Judges. The last verse of Judges states that "Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit." Thus explaining the violence and death through the book. There was a cry for hope for peace in the land.

Good Morning

This picture is the pass that was close to Gibeah, the town that the Isralites camped near. (20:19) Click in the picture to see more photos. The picture was taken from Bibleplaces.comSunday starts Christs' last week on earth. I pray that you prepare your hearts to journey with Christ on His last week.

Scripture Reading

18 The Israelites went up to Bethel and inquired of God. They said, "Who of us shall go first to fight against the Benjamites?"The LORD replied, "Judah shall go first."

19 The next morning the Israelites got up and pitched camp near Gibeah. 20 The men of Israel went out to fight the Benjamites and took up battle positions against them at Gibeah. 21 The Benjamites came out of Gibeah and cut down twenty-two thousand Israelites on the battlefield that day. 22 But the men of Israel encouraged one another and again took up their positions where they had stationed themselves the first day.

23 The Israelites went up and wept before the LORD until evening, and they inquired of the LORD. They said, "Shall we go up again to battle against the Benjamites, our brothers?"The LORD answered, "Go up against them."

24 Then the Israelites drew near to Benjamin the second day. 25 This time, when the Benjamites came out from Gibeah to oppose them, they cut down another eighteen thousand Israelites, all of them armed with swords.

26 Then the Israelites, all the people, went up to Bethel, and there they sat weeping before the LORD. They fasted that day until evening and presented burnt offerings and fellowship offerings [b] to the LORD. 27 And the Israelites inquired of the LORD. They asked, "Shall we go up again to battle with Benjamin our brother, or not?"The LORD responded, "Go, for tomorrow I will give them into your hands."

Think n Grow

As I finished this story I was confused. The men of Israel decided to go against the Benjamites, they asked YAHWEH who should go first; YAHWEH responded, then they proceeded and lost. They went through the process again, and lost again. Then on the third time YAHWEH said "Now I am going to hand them over to you." Why did YAHWEH allow them to lose badly 2 times, when HE gave them an answer to the questions they asked?

I went back and read the story a few more times, then two principles became evident. During the entire period of Judges, the Israelites had no king, they did as they wanted. (21:25) They were not living a Holy Life before YAHWEH. Something bad would happen, they would cry out to HIM, HE would save them, then they would go back to the same behavior.

The other principle I saw, they gathered before YAHWEH, but they never asked YAHWEH IF they should attack. The Israelites made up their minds of action, THEN asked YAHWEH. Totally backwards, they should of prayed, fasted, and waited for YAHWEH's decision, then asked how to complete the task. Maybe YAHWEH would of given them victory the first time.

Our Christian life is a 24/7 process. It is not a life where we do as we see fit, then when we have a problem, ask GOD and expect HIM to solve all our problems. What kind of a Christian life are you living? 24/3 or maybe 12/7?

Closing Prayer

Father thank you for the rays of sunshine and warmth. I pray Father that I will always seek You first, let You lead the way, not me. I pray Father that I am strong in trusting You and knowing that Your way is always the best.

I love You, and I pray in Your great Name,

Amen

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Judges 18-19

Insight into Scripture
A concubine is a secondary wife who has probably come into the marriage without dowry. Her children may only receive a portion of their father's estate if he chooses to publicly acknowledge them as his heirs. In this story the Levite may have simply contracted her for a sexual partner.
This story sounds similar to what Lot experienced in Genesis 19 and 1 Samuel 11:7.

Good Morning
Dan (18:29) is located at the foot of Mount Hermon. It is watered by a number of springs. This picture is the largest of four sources of the Jordan River, the Dan Spring emerges at the base of Mt. Hermon next to Tel Dan. Click on the picture to view more interesting photos of Dan. Pictures were used from Bibleplaces.com.

Scripture Reading
27 When her master got up in the morning and opened the door of the house and stepped out to continue on his way, there lay his concubine, fallen in the doorway of the house, with her hands on the threshold. 28 He said to her, "Get up; let's go." But there was no answer. Then the man put her on his donkey and set out for home.
29 When he reached home, he took a knife and cut up his concubine, limb by limb, into twelve parts and sent them into all the areas of Israel. 30 Everyone who saw it said, "Such a thing has never been seen or done, not since the day the Israelites came up out of Egypt. Think about it! Consider it! Tell us what to do!" - Judges 19:27-30

Thought for the Day
If you have just read the scripture above, I would suggest reading all of the story in Judges 19, it will make more sense. But, after reading the above scripture it sounds like it was taken from modern day society. We would most likely hear about the story on CNN and gasp, and think "How could GOD let this happen?"

I know that I have said that may times, "How could a good and loving GOD let these terrible things happen?" I wish that I had the answer, but I do not. I do know, we never know the entire story or the outcome. As in this story, you will find out what happens in chapter 20.

One thing that our family has experienced firsthand, is for every terrible thing that has happened, there has always been good things that have come forth. This holds true to alot of the stories you hear and see. The floods that happened in India opened the door for missionaries when they asked for help, thus saving more lives eternally and spreading HIS word.

If you are experiencing a bad time or have experienced a bad time I know that it can be a time of anger and confusion. You must hang onto the ONE that will not change or let you down.

Closing Prayer
Father thank You for never changing! As this world continues to change, and quickly, it is so nice to rest knowing that You do not change. Father I pray that You open my eyes in every situation, help me to see where You are moving and to move with You. Father I pray that I will know that deep in my heart eventually everything WILL be ok and will be the BEST that I could ever have imagined. And that hope is what You give me and allows me to press on.
Thank You and I love You,
In Your Name
Amen

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Judges 15-17

Insight into Scripture
Before Jesus sent His Holy Spirit to us at The Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) the Believers in the Old Testament did have have access to the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of the LORD would come and go, you will read where "The Spirit of the LORD" came upon them. An interesting note; watch out for how The Spirit of the LORD came upon that person. For example in verse 15:14 it says that The Spirit of the LORD "Rushed upon him."

Since we have been reading the Old Testament YAHWEH has been pulling on my heart to get to know HIM better. I believe that YAHWEH does not change. HIS character has not changed since the time of Adam. What has changed, is us.YAHWEH set up rituals and customs so that we would not forget HIM, but, as we have progressed as a people, we have forgotten about HIM and what is special to HIM. Now, I believe that Christ came down to earth and became the last sacrifice for our sins, so we are not going around and building altars and sacrificing animals, but some of YAHWEH's traditions should be remembered.
Now to our story. Kim and I went to pick up the keys to our new house. 

YAHWEH has been AMAZING through out this whole process. HE not only gave us our house, but the lot next to ours to build on. We should have not received this house. So, it was VERY important to me to dedicate the house to HIM. I wanted YAHWEH to be the first to enter our new home.

I was looking in the Old Testament and found different types of offerings in Leviticus. In chapter 7 it describes a thanksgiving offering. We were to take 1 piece of leaven bread and 1 piece of unleavened bread and offer it to YAHWEH. So last night Kim baked the bread for our offering. In the morning we stopped by Safeway and bought a bottle of wine for a drink offering as well. When we got to the house we went to the garage (It is separate) and prayed over it, poured some wine onto it and presented the 2 pieces of bread to YAHWEH. We then proceeded to the lot of land, prayed, poured some of the wine into the ground, and presented the bread offering. Then we went to the front door of the house, opened the door, prayed and asked YAHWEH to enter into our house, poured some wine, and presented the bread offering. We then went inside and talked for a minute. Now here is the NEAT part.

Kim went outside to the car...... and the bread was gone. She came and told me that it was gone, so I went outside and looked for myself...... it was gone, so I went and looked by the garage..... it was gone. So I went to the land and it was gone too...... all three offerings were totally gone, not a crumb, speck, nothing. Now, I might buy if an animal took one of the offerings, but all three, within minutes, at the same time? I have to tell you, Kim and I were speechless. To see YAHWEH accept our offerings and take them..... I am still speechless.

Closing Prayer
Our heavenly Father, sometimes my heart is so full with love, gratitude and awe that all I can do is thank You for being so....You. I pray that I can express from my heart the awe that I have in You and the love that I feel and the thankfulness that I share with You everyday.
I love You and I pray
in Your great Name,
Amen.

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Judges 12-14

Insight into Scripture
It was a custom in ancient times, when a stranger approached your dwelling, they were to be offered the opportunity to rest, refresh themselves and eat a meal. (13:15-16) Yahweh's name was VERY sacred. The ten commandments had prohibited Israel from attempting to use Yahweh's name in magical ways to manipulate HIM. (13:15-16)By taking a meal and placing it on a rock, it went from a meal to a sacrifice. (13:19)When Samson had to come up with 30 sets of clothing, it would be today; 30 three piece suits.

Good Morning~The picture is of Ashkelon. This is could have been where Samson struck down 30 men and stripped them of their clothes. (14:19)
Looks like some nice beach front property. If you would like to see more pictures of this anciet Philistine city, click on the picture to go to Biblesplaces.com.

Scripture Reading
12 And Manoah said, "Now when your words come true, what is to be the child's manner of life, and what is his mission?"
13 And the angel of the LORD said to Manoah, "Of all that I said to the woman let her be careful. 14 She may not eat of anything that comes from the vine, neither let her drink wine or strong drink, or eat any unclean thing. All that I commanded her let her observe."
15 Manoah said to the angel of the LORD, "Please let us detain you and prepare a young goat for you." 16 And the angel of the LORD said to Manoah, "If you detain me, I will not eat of your food. But if you prepare a burnt offering, then offer it to the LORD." (For Manoah did not know that he was the angel of the LORD.) 17 And Manoah said to the angel of the LORD, "What is your name, so that, when your words come true, we may honor you?" 18 And the angel of the LORD said to him, "Why do you ask my name, seeing it is wonderful?" - Judges 13:12-18

Thought of the Day
One day you are walking in the woods, when all of a sudden you are stopped by an actual angel. The angel tells you that you and your spouse are going to have a child, and this child is going to be used by GOD to change the course of history.
When you ask this angel, "How am I to raise this child." he replies, "Don't let him drink alcohol and no processed foods." That's it. You are given this huge responsibility from GOD with little direction.
Have you ever noticed that GOD works that way from time to time. You hear GOD tell you to MOVE, but that is it. No directions, no plans, and sometimes it may feel like GOD actually leaves. There is another famous couple that had the same situation. YAHWEH told Abram that he will be a heir to all the land he could see and that his children will be like the stars in the sky. But Abram is without child and he and Sarai are only getting older. Abram did not hear from YAHWEH for 12 years. Instead of trusting YAHWEH to provide, they took matters into their own hands, which ended up creating the Arab nations and Allah.
I believe that GOD does this to strengthen our faith and trust in HIM. If you are feeling that GOD has left or you have not heard from HIM in awhile, we must reach out to HIM and spend time seeking HIM. Always refer back to HIS word for guidance. HE is there and you will hear from HIM again soon.

Closing Prayer
Father thank You for the warm sunshine You bring. I bask in the rays and am thankful that I am able to feel and see Your brightness. Father I pray that You help all of us in a journey. Help us to be obedient and hear what directions we are to follow. I pray Father that those that are not in a journey right now, find peace and closeness from You in their time of waiting. Father I pray for those families out there that struggle so hard to make ends meet, I pray that they trust in You and know that You are always there and always doing Your will. Father I pray for my soul to be quiet and feel Your presence now and I my times of fear. I love You father and I pray for those that are not saved, that You put someone in their lives to help them find You.
In Your great Name,
Amen

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Judges 10-11

Insight into Scripture
The practice of maidens going out to greet returning victors with song and dance was common. (11:34)
Tearing one's clothes, was a common form of mourning, that along with placing ashes in the hair. (11:35)

Happy Monday!
I pray that you have had a good Sabbath day. The picture to the left is a modern day Gilead. This could have been close to the site where Jephthah made a vow to YAHWEH asking HIM to give the Ammonites into his hands.This is an interesting story, as the ending of Jephthah's vow ends up in some modern day controversy.

Scripture Reading
Further Disobedience and Oppression
6 The people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the LORD and served the Baals and the Ashtaroth, the gods of Syria, the gods of Sidon, the gods of Moab, the gods of the Ammonites, and the gods of the Philistines. And they forsook the LORD and did not serve him. 7 So the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he sold them into the hand of the Philistines and into the hand of the Ammonites, 8 and they crushed and oppressed the people of Israel that year. For eighteen years they oppressed all the people of Israel who were beyond the Jordan in the land of the Amorites, which is in Gilead. 9 And the Ammonites crossed the Jordan to fight also against Judah and against Benjamin and against the house of Ephraim, so that Israel was severely distressed.
10 And the people of Israel cried out to the LORD, saying, "We have sinned against you, because we have forsaken our God and have served the Baals." - Judges 10:6-10

Thought of the Day
Men and women were created to serve. From the most religious person to the most non-religious person you know, we were all made to serve something.
In your life, have you ever felt restless, kind of an uneasiness as you were searching for something to satisfy the empty feeling inside? Then you find that "Something" you can identify with, you grasp it, and worship it. Your whole day revolves around this one thing. I can.
My soul was searching for something, (It was Christ) but, my earthly desires took over my heavenly desires. I found bodybuilding. I served and worshipped bodybuilding. I ate it, breathed it, slept it, it was always on my mind. As soon as I would wake up, I would be planning out my workout routine, worked all day thinking about it. Then I finally came to the place of worship (The gym) worked out for 3 hours, went home, surfed the net and read magazines about it, finally went to bed thinking about tomorrow's workout. I am sure that some of you can identify with my feelings.
Today, the same is still true, just replace Christ for the bodybuilding. Just as the Israelites HAD to serve something, YOU are or are going too serve something. What is your "Something?" Besides work, schooling, or being a parent, what takes the majority of your time? TV, more work, internet, XBOX, sports, crafts or GOD, Reading the Bible, prayer, devotions, meditations on Christ?What god are you serving?

Closing Prayer
Father thank You for the times of fellowship You share with us. Thank You for all the loving people You place around me on Sundays. I pray Father that I seek You all week and not just on Sunday. I pray that I help others around me to see You and seek You. I thank You and pray for Divine appointments as I go onto the week. I want to feel Your presence wherever I go and pray and give praises to You. Father thank You for the many blessings You give to me everyday, especially those that I do not deserve but You have so graciously given.
I love You and I pray in Your Name,
Amen.

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Bible Trivia
When he was caught disobeying God, Adam blamed
a) The serpent.
b) Bad programs on television
c) Cain
d) Eve
Hint: Genesis 3:12

Judges 3-5

Insight into Scripture
If you have friends or family that think the Bible is boring and tame. Take time to read the story of Ehud. (3:12-30) While reading, try to create a visual picture of this story in your mind.

Good Morning
This is a picture of Mt. Tabor. This is the place where Barak attacked Sisera with 10,000 men. (4:14-16) Mt. Tabor is also the presumed site of transfiguration. (Mat. 17:1) Mt. Tabor really is a majestic mountain, you can click on the link for more pictures of it.Picture from Bibleplaces.com

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Scripture Reading
Judges 3:1-2, 12-14
1 Now these are the nations that the LORD left, to test Israel by them, that is, all in Israel who had not experienced all the wars in Canaan. 2 It was only in order that the generations of the people of Israel might know war, to teach war to those who had not known it before.
12And the people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the LORD, and the LORD strengthened Eglon the king of Moab against Israel, because they had done what was evil in the sight of the LORD. 13 He gathered to himself the Ammonites and the Amalekites, and went and defeated Israel. And they took possession of the city of Palms. 14 And the people of Israel served Eglon the king of Moab eighteen years.

Thought of the Day
Can you see a pattern starting to develop with the Israelites? They are disobedient to YAHWEH, punished, cry out to YAHWEH, YAHWEH delivers them and forgives them, just to have them do it to HIM again.
As I was reading last night, there were several good points that the Bible makes in these chapters.
When GOD tests us, it is not always a "Test", sometimes it can be a preparation for future events to come in our lives. In verse 3:1-2 YAHWEH knew that this new generation had not experienced war, so it states that YAHWEH "Tested" them so they could gain the experience of war for future battles, maybe a larger one?
GOD never gives us more than we can handle. If you feel that you are being tested, maybe GOD is preparing you for a larger event to come in your life.In the last chapter we read how we need to make a choice. We need to choose GOD's blessing, or GOD's curse. The verses in 3:12-14 are great examples of this. When Israel was disobedient, not only did it anger YAHWEH, HE actually strengthened Israel's enemy. That is pretty direct, YAHWEH not only left Israel's side, but HE sided with her enemy.
If it seems like your enemies are always getting the best of you. Maybe lately you just can't seem to win, it is just one after another. I would examine my relationship with CHRIST. Maybe lately you have chosen YAHWEH's curses over HIS blessings?

Closing Prayer
Thank You Father for your indispensable love, grace and mercy. I pray that You open my eyes Father so I know the true childlike faith that You so much want me to have. Deepen my heart for those around me and teach me the ways of Your disciples. I pray Father for the peace and rest of our president and that he hears Your whispers. Thank You again for the Word You have provided to me so that I may listen and learn, and I pray that I do.
I love You and I pray in Your awesome Name.
Amen

Bible Trivia
What tribes of Israel settled east of the Jordan River?
Hint: Joshua 18:7

Judges 1-2

Insight into Scripture
The author of Judges is possibly Samuel. GOD had helped the Israelites conquer Canaan (Israel) but they were now in danger of losing their land because they disobeyed GOD. Judges shows us that GOD's judgement for sin is certain, but HIS forgiveness for sin is just as certain as the punishment.Iron chariots (1:19) were not completely constructed of Iron. Certain parts of the chariots were starting to be constructed which put fear in the Israelites.The Angel of the Lord (2:1) is a very specific being. He carried out YAHWEH's commands.

Good Morning
This picture is Megiddo. Megiddo is where Israel failed to drive out all of the people that inhabited the land. (1:27) The Valley of Megiddo will serve as the gathering place for an immense army which will engage the returning Messiah; Jesus Christ. This picture is taken from Bibleplaces.com

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Scripture Reading
Judges 2:10-1210 And all that generation also were gathered to their fathers. And there arose another generation after them who did not know the LORD or the work that He had done for Israel.
Israel's Unfaithfulness
11 And the people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the LORD and served the Baals. 12 And they abandoned the LORD, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt. They went after other gods, from among the gods of the people who were around them, and bowed down to them. And they provoked the LORD to anger.

Thought of the Day
As I was reading today's chapters, these verses stuck with me. It states that the new generation did not know YAHWEH or what HE had done for their past ancestors. We know that Moses and Joshua recorded all their events into the Book of Moses (Joshua 24:26) so, I would guess they had access to the Book of Moses, so why did the new generation not know YAHWEH?
We have a 13 year old son; Tyler. He does have a Bible, but I have yet to see him pick it up and read it. But, if you talk to Tyler he does have good knowledge of the Bible, and JESUS. So, if he has knowledge of these things, and he really does not read his Bible very much, where did he learn these things?
Tyler has gained this knowledge from Kim and I, and church. We as a family, are always talking about JESUS and what He is doing in our lives. That made me think, maybe the new generation of Israelites would have been more obedient to YAHWEH if the older generation showed them what HE had done.
Whether you have children, grandchildren, friends, or co-workers; if you are a follower of JESUS it is your responsibility to tell them who JESUS is, and what HE has done for you. You can give them a Bible, but there is nothing like examples from a real person with a real relationship, to show others about God. YOU may be the only JESUS that that person ever receives, do not let those moments pass away.

Closing Prayer
Thank You Father for the sweet sounds You provide for us through beautiful voices that lift praises up to Your name. Father I pray that I can be an example for others, I pray that they stop me and ask me questions about.....the smile on my face, and I can point them to You. I pray they can come to know You. I pray Father that each day I will feel the warmth of my head in Your chest. Please give me the strength to get through my selfish times and focus on others. I pray that I grow closer to You and learn more of Your love, everyday. Father please forgive me for my sins, today and everyday I ask for that.
I love You and I pray
In Your Holy Name,
Amen.

Bible Trivia
When we pray to GOD, we should first
a) Praise HIM
b) Ask for whatever we want
c) Ask for good weather
d) Tell HIM we haven't done anything wrong
Hint: Luke 11:2

Joshua 22-24

Insight into Scripture
In verse 24:11 the text used the word "hornet." This may have been a symbol of divine intervention. This helped prepare the way for the Israelite conquest.As we finish the Book of Joshua, Joshua and the Israelites have obeyed YAHWEH and HE has given them success in all that they have done. Joshua is now ready to die, but before he does, he renews and reminds the Israelites of the blessings and the curses of following YAHWEH and not following YAHWEH. We shall see how they do when we start the Book of Judges.

Good Morning
This picture is Shecham. Shecham is located between Mt. Gerizim (left) and Mt. Ebal (right). This is where Joshua gathered the Israelites and renewed Yahweh's covenant for obedience and disobedience. (24:1-27)This is also the resting place of Jacob's bones. (24:32) This picture is taken from Bibleplaces.com

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Scripture Reading
Joshua 24:12-14
12 And I sent the hornet before you, which drove them out before you, the two kings of the Amorites; it was not by your sword or by your bow. 13 I gave you a land on which you had not labored and cities that you had not built, and you dwell in them. You eat the fruit of vineyards and olive orchards that you did not plant.'
14"Now therefore fear the LORD and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD.

Thought of the Day
Have you ever been around a very conceited person? Half of the words they use are "I." I did this, I did that....... it goes totally against what Jesus preached in the Sermon on the Mount. (Matt. 5) We are told that the meek shall inherit the earth, and the first shall be last, and the last, first.
In the verses above YAHWEH tells the Israelites that they did nothing, it was only by YAHWEH's hand did they succeed. We exist because GOD allows us to exist. We are good at certain things, because GOD has given us our talents.Do you give GOD the glory? When you have been successful at a venture, do you use the word "I" more or GOD?
Our business is doing well, and we were able to purchase a house. This is a house that we should not have been given. Our business and house adventure, has been a great example of GOD's hand at work in our lives. I am very grateful to HIM, so whenever Kim and I talk about our lives, GOD's name is the first word out of our mouths. I would encourage you the rest of this week to evaluate yourselves. Does the glory go to you, or to GOD?

Closing Prayer
Praise You Father for the many things You bring to our daily lives. Praise to You for loving us so much. Father I pray today that I will seek Your face and send out the message of Your love and loyalty. I pray that I will give all the glory to your great Name and that people will ask questions about You. I pray Father for the children that are suffering in our world, I pray that they find nourishment for their little bodies and peace in their hearts. I love You Father and I pray
in Your Name,
Amen.

Bible Trivia
What prophet of GOD challenged 450 prophets of Baal to see whose god would answer by fire?Hint: 1 Kings 18:22-24

Joshua 20-21

Insight into Scripture
I find that the more I know of Christ, the more that I want to go back to the "Roots" of God.
As you can imagine back in Moses' time they did not have a calendar like we have today. God used an agricultural calendar along with several feasts that HE asked the Israelites (And us) to honor. Tomorrow, March 20th is the start of GOD's new year. So, Happy New Year!

Good Morning
This is a picture of Beth Shemesh (21:16). It was a border city between Judah and Dan, Beth Shemesh was given to the Levites. Beth Shemesh was the most important Israelite city in the Sorek Valley as it watched both east-west traffic through the Sorek Valley and north-south traffic along the "Diagonal Route." This picture is taken from Bibleplaces.com

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Scripture Reading
Joshua 21:44-45
43 Thus the LORD gave to Israel all the land that He swore to give to their fathers. And they took possession of it, and they settled there. 44 And the LORD gave them rest on every side just as He had sworn to their fathers. Not one of all their enemies had withstood them, for the LORD had given all their enemies into their hands. 45 Not one word of all the good promises that the LORD had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass.

Thought of the Day
Have you ever had a friend verbally promise you something? Then, when this "Thing" your friend promised was suppose to happen, doesn't, and then you approach them and ask "What happened?" They might deny or have trouble remembering what they had told you.
In the beginning of our relationship with GOD, HE had to verbally promise the Israelites what HE was going to do for them. The Bible was just starting to be written. Can you imagine living back then? You might say, "Did GOD really promise us ALL of this land, or just some of it?" They did not have the resources that we have today. They might of had to go to Moses or visit a Priest and ask what the Torah said.
Whatever GOD promises us, will come true. If HE promises to be with you, HE will be with you. If GOD promises us that HE will care for our physical needs as HE cares for the birds, HE will take care of our physical needs. No questions asked. The amazing thing about these promises, unlike Moses' time, we have all the promises in one book, The Bible.
We have a wonderful gift! I hope that you are taking advantage of all of GOD's promises to you. Are you in GOD's word everyday seeking all that HE has promised you or are you just guessing?
Closing Prayer
Father thank You for always keeping Your promises, even though I sometimes forget that they are there. Father please help me to continue to grow daily in Your Word and in my Christianity. I pray that I am able to touch those around me, those that You put in my life daily. I ask that You help me to say the right things and make a difference, I pray You use me Father and that I am obedient enough to do so.
I love You and I pray in Your Great Name.
Amen.

Bible Trivia
What illegal activity resulted in Daniel being thrown into the lion's den?
Hint: Daniel 6:6-14

Joshua 17-19

Insight into Scripture
In chapters 13-19 we read the allotment of the land by tribes and by families. But also notice that in many cases, Israel did not drive out and destroy the godless people living in the land.Casting lots to determine God's will is a form of divination. (18:6-10)

Currently in our readings, Hebron was given to Caleb for his devotion to God. If you remember Caleb went to explore Canaan, he came back with a positive attitude while the other man spread rumors in camp, and created fear among the people.
This picture is of The Machpelah, Genesis 23 records the purchase by Abraham, of a plot of ground in Hebron for a burial cave for his wife Sarah. Later Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob and Leah would be buried here.

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Scripture Reading
Joshua 17:14-18
14 Then the people of Joseph spoke to Joshua, saying, "Why have you given me but one lot and one portion as an inheritance, although I am a numerous people, since all along the LORD has blessed me?"
15 And Joshua said to them, "If you are a numerous people, go up by yourselves to the forest, and there clear ground for yourselves in the land of the Perizzites and the Rephaim, since the hill country of Ephraim is too narrow for you."
16 The people of Joseph said, "The hill country is not enough for us. Yet all the Canaanites who dwell in the plain have chariots of iron, both those in Beth-shean and its villages and those in the Valley of Jezreel."
17 Then Joshua said to the house of Joseph, to Ephraim and Manasseh, "You are a numerous people and have great power. You shall not have one allotment only, 18 but the hill country shall be yours, for though it is a forest, you shall clear it and possess it to its farthest borders. For you shall drive out the Canaanites, though they have chariots of iron, and though they are strong."

Thought of the Day
God promised the Israelites all of Canaan. God had shown them in the past that He went in before them and fought for them. This land was theirs for the taking, but fear, lack of faith and trust over came them.
This reminds me of some people I have met. They have sensed that God is prompting them to move. God may even be blazing the way before them, performing signs of the way He wants them to move. They may even have friends and family that are telling them, "God is moving, you need to move with Him." But, only that person can take the step of faith with God.
Are you at that point in your life where you feel God is telling you to take a step of faith and move? What is holding you back?
Maybe you have not felt God prompting you to move. Maybe you have put too many restrictions on God? Your Christian live is an adventure. God is not a God to just sit there, He moves, crashing through borders, and is always expanding. Will you expand with Him or be left in His wake? There is nothing you will ever experience in you life, as that when God moves and you move with Him.

Closing Prayer
Father I pray You have had a great day, and I thank You for the many miracles that happen around me everyday. I pray today Father that I will be still and listen to You and know when You are blazing a trail for me to follow. I pray Father that I hear You speaking through those around me. Father please give me the strength to step out and do Your will. I thank You ahead of time for using me Father and I pray I will do a good job for You!!
I Love You!!!
In Your Name,
Amen.

Bible Trivia
What kind of bread were the Israelites to eat in their Passover Celebration? What was the meaning of this kind of bread?
Hint: Numbers 9:10-11

God Moves

Joshua 9-10

Insight into Scripture
The city of Gibeon is usually identified with modern day el-Jib. (9:3)The word ruse means to deceive, dishonest. (9:4)Woodcutters and watercarries were needed for the constant sacrificial fires and purifying rituals. (9:26) The Book of Jashar is an ancient book of poetic accounts of heroic deeds, it also appears in 2 Sam 1:18. (10:13)

Good Morning
To the left is a picture of Gibeon as it looks today. This is the city that played a trick on Joshua, so they would always be under the protection of Israel. Most of the pictures I use are from Bibleplaces.com. It is a nice website to have saved, as you are reading a story in the Bible, you can search their web site and see the real picture of the story you are reading about.

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Scripture Reading
9 So Joshua came upon them suddenly, having marched up all night from Gilgal. 10 And the LORD threw them into a panic before Israel, who struck them with a great blow at Gibeon and chased them by the way of the ascent of Beth-horon and struck them as far as Azekah and Makkedah. 11 And as they fled before Israel, while they were going down the ascent of Beth-horon, the LORD threw down large stones from heaven on them as far as Azekah, and they died. There were more who died because of the hailstones than the sons of Israel killed with the sword. - Joshua 9:11

Thought of the Day
The Book of Joshua is a wonderful book about a wise military strategist; Joshua. The book of Joshua also shows us that if we wait upon the Lord, and keep His commands, HE will fight our battles.
Our Christian life is a spiritual battle. There are forces that we can't see raging around us. As you read the Book of Joshua, take notes of how a wise man; Joshua, fights his battles. There are two examples for today's reading that are worth noting.
The Gibeonite's deceived Joshua. Joshua was told by God not to make any treaties with anyone of the land. (Exodus 23:32; Numbers 33:55) The reason that they were deceived is that they did not wait upon the Lord, which, lead to an awkward alliance.In life, you are going to have people try and deceive you. We can learn from Joshua's mistake.
First, wait upon the Lord. If you are unsure if that person is trying to play a trick on you, pray about it.
Second, do not rush into a decision. Time usually is on your side. If time is not on your side, meaning someone is trying to push you into a decision RIGHT AWAY and does not give you any time to think about it. I would be VERY cautious. Joshua and the men of Israel jumped into a decision (9:12-15) I am sure that if they would have waited, they would have seen through the Gibeonite's tricks.
The other example is how God fights your battles. If you wait upon the Lord, and keep His commands, you have an UNSTOPPABLE force on your side. In verses 10:9-11 we read about how God confused Joshua's enemies, plus, when they started to out run Joshua's army, God "Hurled large hailstones" on them. In fact more died from the hailstones then Joshua's sword. So, next time you are going into battle, remember God is there fighting with you, so rely on Him, and use Him.

Closing Prayer
Father thank You for this day and the many faces that I saw with Your name on them. Father I pray for the children that are hungry, tired and living in terrible conditions. I pray for their little hearts and bodies, I pray that they will come to know You. And Father I pray for us , Your little children, I pray that we stay focused on You and know that our battles are Your battles and that Your defeat is our defeat. I pray for those that have many questions about You today Father that they will find the answers.
I love You and I pray
In Your Name,
Amen.

Bible Trivia
What celestial feat did Joshua ask God to perform?
Hint: Joshua 10:12-14

Joshua 7-8

Insight into Scripture
Mourning practices included tearing one's robe, weeping, putting dust and ashes into one's hair, and wearing sackcloth. Sackcloth was made from goat or camel's hair and was coarse and uncomfortable. (7:6) Hangings back then was not a form of execution. The person was most likely dead. They were hung for final humiliation. (8:29)

Good Morning
The picture to the left is what is left of the city of Ai today. The first time Joshua attacked this city, he did not have the Lord's blessings and lost.The second time Joshua had the Lord's blessing and plans to attack the city. The second time with the Lord's blessing, Joshua attacked and were victorious.

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Thought for the Day

I was channel surfing the TV last night, when I came to an open discussion with Donald Trump. Towards the end was an open discussion with "The Donald." One student asked him what were the keys to being successful. Donald said that there were 3 basic keys to being successful:

Love What You Do
Know Your Product
Never Quit

You would think that Donald Trump would have a 100 page document on How to be Successful. But know, very simple, easy, and straight forward. As I was getting ready for bed last night, I thought that those same principles apply to your Christian life.

Love What You Do
You should love and be proud that you are a child of God. The whole lifestyle of being a Christian should excite you. You should wake up each day and look forward to what adventure that the Lord has planned for you. I say adventure because if you are a devoted follower of Christ, God will ask you to do some crazy things that do not make sense, it takes pure faith and trust. Just as a good business man LOVES to talk business, your ears should perk up when someone starts to talk about Jesus, and you should do anything to become involved in the conversation.

Know Your Product
If you were to walk into a Best Buy looking to buy a new High Def. TV, and you found a TV sales person, and started asking them questions, you would expect them to know what they were talking about. If they fumbled around with answers and said "Let me get back to you on that question." you would lose faith in the sales person.Christians "Product" is the Bible. We should know that book up and down. We should spend time everyday getting to know that product better. So, if someone who is looking at "Buying" into this religion and starts asking you questions, you will have answers to their questions. Plus, as you start to read the product manual, you start to get to know the owner of that manual you are reading; Jesus!

Never Quit
Let's face it, the Christian life is not easy. That is why our reward in heaven is great. We are living in a society that has values that go against everything we believe. Then add to that, you have an enemy that wants to see you fail, that will do everything is his power to make you fall on your face. So, it is safe to say that we are human, and we are going to make mistakes and sin. Our sin, and our failures should never make us quit or feel discouraged. When you fall down, look to Jesus, grab Jesus' hand, get up, look satan straight in the face, and ask him "Is that the best you can do?" And walk proudly past him in the shadow of Jesus, yes never give up seeking Christ's face.

Closing Prayer
Father thank you for the people You so lovingly put into my life everyday. Father I pray that I can make a difference for Your kingdom. I pray that I know where to move with You and what to say. I pray for strength to stand up for what I believe and never be afraid of being considered "weird" for believing it. I pray that I see and feel the movement that I know surrounds me everyday. I hope You have a good day today Father. I love You!!
In Your Grip,
Amen

Bible Trivia
Who was Achan, what sin did he commit, what was his punishment?

Hint: Joshua 7:19-26

Joshua 4-6

Insight into Scripture
Jericho is about 5 miles from the Jordan.Flint Knives were made by striking the flint at a certain angle. This would produce a flake, which was very sharp.Jericho has been given the title of the oldest city in the world. The city walls were made of mudbrick on stone foundation. These walls were ten to twenty-five feet high and perhaps thirty feet wide.

Good Morning,
As you are reading scripture always remember everything points to Christ. The scriptures are very symbolic. Alot of the events in the Old Testament are almost miniature scenarios or tests for the actual event that takes place with Christ.
Here are some thoughts for you to ponder. Moses, Joshua, and Jesus all were "Baptized" through water.
Joshua passed through the Jordan (Same place where Jesus was baptized) After Joshua passed through the Jordan, the Lord exalted him in front of the Israelites (4:14) just as God exalted Jesus after He was baptized by John the Baptist.
Joshua passed through the river and was told to gather 12 stones to remember the event. Jesus was baptized and gathered 12 disciples so they could remember the events that had happened and that were going to happen.

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Scripture Reading
1 Now Jericho was shut up inside and outside because of the people of Israel. None went out, and none came in. 2 And the LORD said to Joshua, "See, I have given Jericho into your hand, with its king and mighty men of valor. 3 You shall march around the city, all the men of war going around the city once. Thus shall you do for six days. 4 Seven priests shall bear seven trumpets of rams' horns before the ark. On the seventh day you shall march around the city seven times, and the priests shall blow the trumpets. 5 And when they make a long blast with the ram's horn, when you hear the sound of the trumpet, then all the people shall shout with a great shout, and the wall of the city will fall down flat, and the people shall go up, everyone straight before him." - Joshua 6:1-5

Thought for the Day
When you read the story of how Joshua conquered Jericho by marching around the city walls, blowing the shofars, shouting, then having the walls come down. You might think big deal, it is just another story in the Bible. But, have you really thought about the amount of faith and trust in the Lord that Joshua displayed?
Joshua was a born leader, God saw that in him. Leaders usually do not march around a "Problem'" they attack and conquer it.
Joshua was a military strategist. I am sure when the Commander of the Lord's army (5:15) told Joshua what to do, Joshua might have said. "Riiiiggghhht, you want me to walk around the walls, blow the shofars, and then yell?
"Joshua was a new leader and I am sure that the pressures of being a new leader and having something to prove, made him a little worried.
If you were to take this same situation and put it into today's world, it would be equal to the US military going over to Iraq, and planting pansies so as to conquer the enemy.
When you are faced with one of life's problems, remember that God's way will not always make sense, in fact it may seem absurd. But it is the right way. Our job is to have faith and trust that God will deliver. If the Lord allowed a problem to be present in your life, He will provide the way out too.
Some of life's problems are not solved overnight. Like the fall of Jericho your problem may take a week or more. We need to learn to be patient and wait upon the Lord.

Closing Prayer
Father thank You for the fresh air we have to breath each morning we wake, and may that fresh air remind us every morning of Your great love. I pray Father that those that are seeking will be found. And that those of us growing in You will grow stronger and more patient with Your plan for our journeys. I love knowing that You walk each step of everyday with me and I pray that I remember that and feel Your presence so that I may be a shining light for others. I love You!! Amen

Bible Trivia
What kind of tree supplied the wood for Aaron's rod that budded?

Hint: Numbers 17:8

Joshua 1-3

Insight into Scripture
The book of Joshua was written by Joshua, except for the last part which some believe a high priest wrote. Joshua was written to record Israel's conquest of Canaan; the Promised Land. Joshua and Caleb were the only ones, out of close to two million people, that saw and entered into the Promised Land.In springtime the melting snow often creates flood stages for the Jordan. These flood waters often created mudslides which could of resulted in the stoppage of the Jordan.

Good Morning~
Today we start another chapter and another adventure. Moses passed away, Joshua has now taken over for Moses as they set poised to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. God has promised them "Every place where you set your foot." Will they take everything that is given to them???Kim is back, so I am sure that the mistakes will improve. If you check out our blog, you will see a picture of Kim's little friend she met.

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Scripture Reading
Rahab and the Spies
1 Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim. "Go, look over the land," he said, "especially Jericho." So they went and entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there.2 The king of Jericho was told, "Look! Some of the Israelites have come here tonight to spy out the land." 3 So the king of Jericho sent this message to Rahab: "Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, because they have come to spy out the whole land."
4 But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. She said, "Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they had come from. 5 At dusk, when it was time to close the city gate, the men left. I don't know which way they went. Go after them quickly. You may catch up with them." 6 (But she had taken them up to the roof and hidden them under the stalks of flax she had laid out on the roof.) 7 So the men set out in pursuit of the spies on the road that leads to the fords of the Jordan, and as soon as the pursuers had gone out, the gate was shut.
8 Before the spies lay down for the night, she went up on the roof 9 and said to them, "I know that the LORD has given this land to you and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear because of you. 10 We have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites east of the Jordan, whom you completely destroyed. 11 When we heard of it, our hearts melted and everyone's courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below. 12 Now then, please swear to me by the LORD that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you. Give me a sure sign 13 that you will spare the lives of my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them, and that you will save us from death."
14 "Our lives for your lives!" the men assured her. "If you don't tell what we are doing, we will treat you kindly and faithfully when the LORD gives us the land."

Thought for the Day
Rahab's story is an example of simple faith. The writers of the book of Hebrews made light of her faith in (11:31). Rahab had simple faith and God used and blessed her because of it.
You might say to yourself that "I could never be used by God because of the things that I have done in the past." That is just one awesome trait of God, your past does not matter, only your heart matters. All God asks for is a simple, childlike faith. You do not need to know all the ins and outs of the Bible to be used by God. Most of the greatest known characters in the Bible did not have great knowledge when they started with God, in fact some had very jaded pasts ( Saul/Paul, Matthew) but, one thing they did have in common was an open heart and mind.

Closing Prayer
Father thank You for quiet time and whispers in my ear. Father I pray that I can find it in my heart to know that You do forgive me for my mistakes I have made in the past and the ones I make daily. Father I know that Your love is more than I can even imagine, but I pray that I will feel that security every second of my life. I pray that I know that childlike faith is good and that I want to be more like You and less like me.
Thank You Father,
I love You!! In Your Name I pray,
Amen.

Bible Trivia
Rahab's house was located
a) On a mountaintop
b) On the town wall
c) Near a grape arbor
d) Just be hind the entrance to the city

Hint: Joshua 2:3, 15

Kim Returns Home

Hello All,

Kim is back home so the devotionals should improve. My proof reader is back. :-) She had a wonderful time, what stuck out in her mind were the children of the trip. Both her and I have a heart for missions. If God were to call us, be would drop everything and follow His call. But, that might be another adventure God has planned for us. Here is a picture of a little girl they met.

Deuteronomy 32-34

Insight into Scripture
When they speak of honey in the Bible, most of the time they are referring to syrup from the date palm.The main source of oil in the Bible comes from Olive tress, they were grown in rocky soil and they require minimal amounts of water.

Good Morning!
Today we finish up with the book of Deuteronomy and say goodbye to an amazing servant of the Lord; Moses. If we were to reflect back on Deuteronomy there are two key themes that God has given us.We were shown time and time again, God's unconditional love for us.God keeps His promises, even though we are disobedient and sin against Him, He remains faithful.

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Scripture Reading
10 And there has not arisen a prophet since in Israel like Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face, 11 none like him for all the signs and the wonders that the LORD sent him to do in the land of Egypt, to Pharaoh and to all his servants and to all his land, 12 and for all the mighty power and all the great deeds of terror that Moses did in the sight of all Israel. - Deuteronomy 34:10-12

Thought for the Day
As I am reading the Bible, I tend to place all the Biblical characters on a pedestal. What they did and accomplished is amazing. But when I read more about them, I see that they were just as human as you and I. So if God can use these Biblical characters, He surely can use me too. Today, I was going to take a look at some life lessons from Moses.
In life God has amazing things planned for our lives. It is rightfully ours. Some of those blessings we will never receive. It is not God that changed His mind, we altered our destinies. God had planned for Moses to enter the promised land, God did not change His mind about Moses entering into the land of milk and honey, Moses did. Moses disobeyed God in Meribath Kadesh in striking the rock for waters. (Numbers 20:1ff)
God wants us to wait upon Him. He wants us to need Him, He wants to be our provider. Do not be quick to act, step back, wait upon the Lord for the right decision. When Moses saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, he looked to the left and then to the right, then he acted and killed the Egyptian. Moses made one mistake, he did not look up and see how God wanted him to handle the situation. Where did this land Moses? In a 40 year desert. (Exodus 2:11ff)
God uses the weak and frail. Have you ever thought, how could God use a person like me? I am not good with people, or maybe you might say "I am too shy and do not like speaking in front of others", or maybe you might say to yourself "I do not know the Bible that well." You are just what God is looking for. No matter your weakness or strengths, God loves people that can be molded and shaped. Just look at Moses when we first met him. Moses spent almost 2 chapters making excuses to God, Moses even finally said "Please send someone else to do it." After all those excuses did you ever think Moses would accomplish what God intended him to do? (Exodus 3, 4) God will use your weakness for strength, never close your heart towards God's plans. If you want to have the most amazing adventure in your life; keep your heart open to whatever God asks.

Bible Trivia
When Moses died, how old was he, where was he buried, and how large is his grave site?

Hint - Deuteronomy 34:5-7 & Jude 9:9

Deuteronomy 24-27

Insight into Scripture
The men were exempt from going into war. It was established so that the man could father an heir and establish a household. What a great idea! (24:5)
There were four classes of needy persons; Levites, aliens, widows, and orphans. These classes were created because they lacked either land or the protection of a household, it became the obligation of the nation to provide food and legal protection. (24:19-22)
Good Morning!
It has been quite a long week for me. Today's devotional is a little off the normal. We are always growing in Christ. Just when we think that we are doing well, Christ shows us an area in our lives that need to work. Have a blessed weekend.

Thought for the Day
Our household had a big family vacation planned for several months. But, God decided to move in our lives right at the time the vacation was about to happen. We bought a new house, and because of the new investment and added paperwork that was going to be needed, Kim and I decided that I should stay home. I would keep our business running and take care of all the phone calls. I knew in my heart that this was the right decision, but I was not happy!
About 2 days into the family being gone, I was totally stressed out, I became very angry, and bitter. I was really struggling with this, I knew that I should not feel like this, but, it was eating me up inside.
Then on the third day of being alone, my spirit calmed down, I stopped, took a deep breath, and looked around. Guess what I saw?I saw Christ seated next to me. He smiled and told me that He had been looking forward to spending this "One on One" time with me for quite some time now. He went on to explain that I am so busy most of the time, that we do not get much "One on One" time anymore. I felt very ashamed that I wasted 2 days of being angry, while He was seated patiently waiting for me.
I learned a couple of things from this:
~When satan attacks viciously, it usually means he is trying to stop a wonderful "Christ moment". satan knows when these moments are in your life, and he will do anything to get in between you and Christ. Do not let him.
~In life when you are stressed out. Stop, take a deep breath, and take a look around. There are wonderful things happening all around you, you will miss these beautiful things if you do not stop and see who is seated next to you.
~You are never alone. Christ is with you everywhere!

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Thank you for being so patient with me. Thank you for loving me so. Thank you for the "One on One" moments we share. Teach me how to stop more often and not miss the important things in life. I love You!! In Your Name I pray,
Amen

Bible Trivia
What city's walls fell at the shout of Joshua's army?
Hint - Joshua 2:3, 15

Deuteronomy 21-23

Insight into Scripture
In verses 21:18-21 Moses speaks of stoning a mother's and father's son for "Gluttony and drunkenness". The meaning of the text is that the son is beyond reform.
In verse 22:8 Moses speaks of a parapet on a house or a roof. Since most roofs were considered living spaces. A parapet was a lip that would aid in a person from falling off the roof.

Scripture Reading
Deuteronomy 20:1-4, 8 ESV1
"When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them, for the LORD your God is with you, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. 2 And when you draw near to the battle, the priest shall come forward and speak to the people 3 and shall say to them, 'Hear, O Israel, today you are drawing near for battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint. Do not fear or panic or be in dread of them, 4 for the LORD your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.'
8 And the officers shall speak further to the people, and say, 'Is there any man who is fearful and fainthearted? Let him go back to his house, lest he make the heart of his fellows melt like his own.'

Thought for the Day
As you are reading the Bible, you will come across many promises like this..... "The Lord will fight your battles". When you read these you must realize that these promises belong to the people who are truly dedicated to Christ, and do their best to follow Him. As we have read in the chapters before, Moses told the Israelites that they must choose between a blessing or a curse.
My son would read these verses and think to himself that he is going to win all of his battles, that is not true. The key phrase that he used was "His battles"> When you are in Christ, it is the Lord's battle, when you spend quality time with Him, you will know what His battles are and what are not his battles.
If you are in Christ, these verses are very promising. Whether you are doing battle with satan, or you are facing a situation that you feel can not be won. If you are in Christ, it is already won! Christ has gone out before you and paved your way to victory. The hard part for us is to have the faith, to take the step into battle. Our eyes can only see earthly things, they can not see the spiritual that is going on around them. One of my favorite passages is where Elisha asked God to open the eyes of his servant, so he could see what was really going on around him.
16 "Don't be afraid," the prophet answered. "Those who are with us are more than those who are with them."17 And Elisha prayed, "O LORD, open his eyes so he may see." Then the LORD opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
18 As the enemy came down toward him, Elisha prayed to the LORD, "Strike these people with blindness." So he struck them with blindness, as Elisha had asked. - 2 Kings 6:16-18
Isn't that a neat story.
Maybe you are going into battle today, maybe today is not your day. But, when you do go, remember that the Lord has gone out before you. Remember the story of Elisha and what his servant could not see. Take a moment right now, look around you, can you see all the angels and chariots that are waiting to move when you do? :)

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for fighting my battles. I know that there were battles that were won, that I did not even know where going on. You fought them alone for me. Thank You! Please Jesus strength my faith so that I can boldy walk into battle with you. I love you Jesus!
In Your Name I pray,
Amen

Bible Trivia
King Herod sought the baby Jesus to:
a) Worship Him.
b) Give Him gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
c) Give May and Joseph money for a hotel room.
d) Kill Him.

Hint - Try and guess first, then look up Matthew 2:13

Deuteronomy 17-20

Insight into Scripture
Witchcraft was the illegitimate use of magic. For a price, they would provide means to harm or destroy an enemy. All of the forms of witchcraft, mediums, and spiritist were trying to circumvent our God.
Warfare was considered a religious enterprise, so it was expected that priests and other religious functionaries would accompany the army.
A soldier was not paid a wage, instead they were given a portion of the loot taken in the capture of villages and towns.

Good Morning!
It looks like the weather has settled down this week. If someone can post on the blog how they are recovering from the tornados, It would appreciated.If you have not had a chance to visit our blog, please do so. Beyond answering the trivia questions, it is a safe place to jot down your thoughts. I love reading your insights.

Scripture Reading
Deuteronomy 17:2-5 ESV2
"If there is found among you, within any of your towns that the LORD your God is giving you, a man or woman who does what is evil in the sight of the LORD your God, in transgressing his covenant, 3 and has gone and served other gods and worshiped them, or the sun or the moon or any of the host of heaven, which I have forbidden, 4 and it is told you and you hear of it, then you shall inquire diligently, and if it is true and certain that such an abomination has been done in Israel, 5 then you shall bring out to your gates that man or woman who has done this evil thing, and you shall stone that man or woman to death with stones.
Thought for the DayYou may read this many times in the Old Testament. Man breaks one of God's covenants, and is put to death. PERIOD. God does not say, OK..... well..... take him behind the tabernacle and tell him that I am really mad. Or maybe, God could say; sacrifice 2 rams and 1 bull and we will call it good. No, death was the punishment. Why?
Two thoughts come to mind, both complement each other. We are a weak people, with a faith that can be shaken easily. Christ compared our faith to a mustard seed, Christ said that if our faith was as large as a mustard seed, we could move mountains. Have you ever seen a mustard seed? Good comparison. Yes, for the most part we are weak, we need to see, touch, and smell something to believe it. So, when something earthly; like money comes along we put our faith in that.
Second, because we are so weak, "A little yeast destroys the dough". One bad person becomes two, two become four, four become sixteen....... you get the picture. God knows this, so to protect us He needed to "Purge" that evil person.
I would examine your faith, is it the size of a atom, or is it close to a mustard seed? Are you easily shaken, if so why? What do you need to do to get your faith to that of an Oak Tree; unshakeable?
I am so thankful that Jesus took the place for us, so God does not require us to be stoned anymore. But, stop and think, I do not believe that God has changed, yes, Christ conquered death, but I believe Gods' feelings are the same; He is a jealous God. How many times do you bow down to your high def TV? Or bow down to the almighty XBOX? Maybe you are bowing down to many George Washington's??? What are your idols?
Closing PrayerDear JesusThank you for paying the price for my salvation. Thank you for your grace and mercy upon us. Lord, I want you to be the center of my life, I want to make you the priority of my each and every day. Please show me Lord the areas of my life that need to be worked on. Help me cast out all of the unwanted idols in my life. I love you Jesus!
In Your Name I pray,
Amen

Bible Trivia
The book of Job relates how....
a) To get a good job.
b) God protects and rewards those who love Him.
c) To cover up those ugly sores.
d) Friends help out when the going gets tough.

Hint - Job 42:12-17

Devotional

Hello everyone,
I will get the devotional up first thing in the morning....... west coast time. You east coast people...... that is really early for me! I miss kim..... I messed up the preview e-mail so i was not able to post it last night...... Good Night. ;-)

Deuteronomy 14-16

Good Morning!
I hope that you can bear with me this week. Kim is gone on a family gathering, and I am left "Holding down the fort". She is my final proof read on our devotionals. I try and proof read, but it is hard to correct your own material. It seems if my brain made a mistake, going over it a second time does not help, my mind just fills in the gaps that I am missing.

Plus, sometimes the Holy Spirit is filling my head with thoughts so fast, I can not type fast enough. Thanks!! :)
View March's Reading Schedule

Scripture Reading

Deuteronomy 14:22, 28-29, 15:4-6, 10-11NIV

22 Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year.

28 At the end of every three years, bring all the tithes of that year's produce and store it in your towns, 29 so that the Levites (who have no allotment or inheritance of their own) and the aliens, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns may come and eat and be satisfied, and so that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.

4 However, there should be no poor among you, for in the land the LORD your God is giving you to possess as your inheritance, he will richly bless you, 5 if only you fully obey the LORD your God and are careful to follow all these commands I am giving you today. 6 For the LORD your God will bless you as he has promised, and you will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. You will rule over many nations but none will rule over you.

10 Give generously to him and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to. 11 There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land.

Thought for the Day

We miss this as believers. Can you imagine if every believer gave 10% or more in tithes and offerings to God? Can you imagine the events that would start to take place in our world? Every one who wanted a Bible would have one. The poor would be cared for, missions would explode, as a result the rapture might happen more quickly. God has said, when all have heard...... then is the time.

My family has witness this first hand. We were in TIGHT financial shape the last couple of years. But, we never stopped giving 10% to the Lord. There were sometime we did not have the money, but GOD ALWAYS PROVIDED. Every month we had enough, plus a little extra. Today, after a couple of years have passed, God is Blessing our business and personal lives beyond our imagination. Something strange has taken place in my heart, now I work for Christ. Money for me, doesn't matter, what matters now is how much can I give Him this month?

For awhile, giving to God was boring. I would just drop the money into the offering plate and that was it..... you saw the monthly church statement. Do not get me wrong, you need to support the church you attend, but giving can be EXCITING. Here are some of the ways that we have gotten the entire family involved. We support a missionary, we send e-mails and hear about their progress. We also support a child in Africa through World Vision. His name is Peter Chance, Peter is about the same age as our son, so they can send mail back and forth. We bring Bibles into our house, and mail them out to countries where it is illegal to be found with a Bible. It is kind of our "James Bond" Bible adventure. You never know, our finger prints could be traced back to us. :)

There is one other point that I wanted to make, in the passage above, God points out several times that if we tithe' as He commands, "God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to". I leave you with the lyrics from one of my favorite Christian Artists; Todd Agnew. When you read the words, does in make you feel a little uncomfortable?

MERCY IN ME

By Todd AgnewAlbum:

REFLECTION OF SOMETHING

A poor man on the cornerI could give to You by buying him lunch

But I rarely think about it‘Cause I got a little but it’s not that much

And I pray Lord won’t You help me

Give me a little bit more for myself

And You say Child won’t you let me

Take all that you got and give you a little real wealth

CHORUS

And I don’t know what You want, what You see in my life

And I don’t know what You mean, how You could be glorified

I’m not too sure about this idea of sacrifice

What You mean by mercy, mercy in me

Your mercy in me

A young girl in an old house

Three kids and another on the way

She’s in desperate need of some new clothes

But I keep my old ones and tell her I’ll pray for her

But Your heart breaks for those kids

And that child of a mom who’s one of Your own

When a few gifts and a little time

Is another crown I could lay at the feet of Your throne

Closing Prayer

My Heavenly Father,

It is hard to give you control of my money. Money here on earth is security, earthly security. I know that my true security was made when You died for my sins. Jesus please help me and give me the strength to allow you to control my money, Please open my eyes to those around me that need help. I love you Jesus!

In Your Name I pray,

Amen

Bible Trivia

What is the one and only thing that God tell us to test Him?

Hint - Malachi 3:10