2 Chronicles 34-36

What Can We Learn From Chronicles? - 2 Chronicles 34-36

Insight Into Scripture

Today, we finish 2 Chronicles. Starting in chapter 34 we read about Josiah, who was a good king. As we move through chapters 35 and 36 we read about the events of Josiah, the death, several more evil kings, and the fall of Jerusalem. :(

I am not sure if you caught it, but, in reading chapter 36 they mention Jeremiah (36:22). Yes, that was the prophet; Jeremiah (Book of Bible Jeremiah)Alot of the Old Testament major and minor prophets spoke during what we just read. Here are some examples, see if you recognize the names of the kings we just read about:

Isaiah - During the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah.

Jeremiah - 13 Year of Josiah, Jehoiakim, and Zedekiah.

Daniel - 3rd year of Jehoiakim.There are more, if you are interested, you can read the opening chapter and verse it usually tells the time period. So, when we read these chapters in the future you will know their struggles and mind set. GOD loved HIS people and kept trying to reach them, but as we read, most of the time it fell on deaf ears.

Bringing the Bible Alive

The LORD, the God of their fathers, sent persistently to them by his messengers, because he had compassion on his people and on his dwelling place. But they kept mocking the messengers of God, despising his words and scoffing at his prophets, until the wrath of the LORD rose against his people, until there was no remedy. - 2 Chronicles 36:15-16 ESV

Thought For the Day

When ever I finish a book of the Bible, I always look back and reflect on it. I look to see what GOD wants me to learn or to take away from my reading. As we finish the books of Kings and Chronicles we have seen alot of examples of good leaders and evil leaders. The really neat thing about reading the Bible is you can see what was happening behind the scenes. For example, a king may get struck with an arrow between his amour links. He may think that it was bad luck, but, in reading the Bible we see that GOD was displeased, and he allowed that to happen, or HE removes HIS protection from that king.

So what can we take away from our readings? GOD may be whispering HIS heart to you, here is what HE has been whispering to me.

GOD is pleased when we purse HIM. There were two kings that we just read about; Hezekiah, and Josiah. They both sought GOD, and HE blessed them.

GOD is a forgiving GOD! Is that not the truth. If you start from The Exodus out of Egypt, HIS people have been in a cycle of sin. The same holds true with Kings and Chronicles. We had good kings then evil kings... around and around. Even though GOD is a forgiving GOD, there is still punishment for sin.

Blessing or Curse? This for me was the biggest whisper. GOD has this "umbrella" of protection. To stay under this umbrella we have to seek HIM, HIS heart, and follow HIS commands. The nice thing about GOD, HE does not have tons of rules, they are pretty easy and straight forward. If we strive to do this we will be blessed and protected. Blessed, not in the form of money, we have to get outside of that mind set, blessings come in many ways!

If we choose to step outside of that umbrella of protection, we are stepping outside of GOD's protection. That is a dangerous place to be; of the world and satan's prey. As we have also seen, GOD will also send our enemies to overtake us, and without GOD's protection...... well, it is a sure loss.

Those are a couple of whispers that GOD has laid on my heart. I am sure that you could come up with more. If you like you can post them on our BLOG.

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus

Thank You Father for this day and the fellowship we are able to share with the people in Your world. I always pray that I can be used for You. I pray Father that i can be still and quiet and know when You whisper i my ear. Help me not to ever be too busy . Father thank You for loving me so much.

I love You with all I am.

In Your name I pray, Amen.

2 Chronicles 31-33

Are You Tithing? - 2 Chronicles 31-33

Insight Into Scripture

Today, we read further about the good king Hezekiah. Chapter 31 tells of how GOD blessed king Hezekiah and HIS people when they started tithing.Chapter 32 tells of how king Hezekiah got wind of the Assyrians planned attack, king Hezekiah planned for the Assyrian's attack and encouraged his people not to be afraid. GOD rescued king Hezekiah and HIS people.Chapter 33 tells of 2 more kings; Manasseh, and Amon. They both did evil in the sight of the LORD.

King Hezekiah's water supply tunnel was quite impressive. It ran 1750 feet through bedrock which they carved! (32:3)

Bringing the Bible Alive

This is a picture of the water tunnel that king Hezekiah had built, it would bring water into Jerusalem. This is considered to be one of the greatest works of water engineering technology in the pre-Classical period.

You can tell that king Hezekiah was a thinker, to plan the counter attack of the assyrians, the king blocked the water supply. You can see more pictues of the tunnel by clicking in the picure. These pictures are taken from Bibleplaces.com

Scripture Verse

4 And he commanded the people who lived in Jerusalem to give the portion due to the priests and the Levites, that they might give themselves to the Law of the LORD. 5 As soon as the command was spread abroad, the people of Israel gave in abundance the firstfruits of grain, wine, oil, honey, and of all the produce of the field. And they brought in abundantly the tithe of everything. 6 And the people of Israel and Judah who lived in the cities of Judah also brought in the tithe of cattle and sheep, and the tithe of the dedicated things that had been dedicated to the LORD their God, and laid them in heaps. 7 In the third month they began to pile up the heaps, and finished them in the seventh month. 8 When Hezekiah and the princes came and saw the heaps, they blessed the LORD and his people Israel. 9 And Hezekiah questioned the priests and the Levites about the heaps. 10 Azariah the chief priest, who was of the house of Zadok, answered him, "Since they began to bring the contributions into the house of the LORD, we have eaten and had enough and have plenty left, for the LORD has blessed his people, so that we have this large amount left." - 2 Chronicles 31:4-10 ESV

Thought For the Day

This is a subject that GOD has laid dear to my heart. It is very hard to let GOD control our money. Money means security here on earth, but not in heaven. It is a false sense of security.

Do you tithe 10%? Really have you figured out how much you take in, and give GOD 10% of that? When you do that, it is a pretty large amount, especially when you do not have that much for the month. This is something that I have tested GOD on. Do You know that GOD challenges us to test HIM on this? See Malachi 3:10, it is the last book in the Old Testament.

Money has always been hard for me; for me it is a sense of security. But, when I became very sick and lost my job, I made a commitment to tithe 10%. It was very hard at times, but, I stuck with it. I have to tell you, it has been amazing. There have been months that I can't tell you how we have had enough money to make it. There have been some months where money just showed up in the form of a check.

Our family should be in major debt, as we racked up over $500,000 in medical bills. But, GOD ALWAYS came through. In fact GOD has blessed our socks off, HE has given us a new house in only a place that I dreamed of living.

I am on a quest to see where the tithing ends. We are now tithing 20%, yes it is very SCARY! But, I have been amazed by how GOD provides. Tithing does not have to be boring; for us, we love to help families in need, or support missionaries, or buy little gifts for people in the body that are hurting. Anything that advances or supports HIS kingdom we love to do.

You will find neat things happen just as Hezekiah found out when his people stepped up and started giving. I would challenge you to challenge GOD. If your tithing is not where you know in your heart it should be, step up and challenge GOD. Make it fun as our family has, but, go into it with the right attitude. If you are expecting something in return, that is not how GOD works, it is trust on your part. Can you imagine if everyone stepped up and really started tithing, we would move mountains!

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus

Thank You Father for this challenge, this challenge to trust You in a whole other part of our lives. Father I pray that I continue to have the right heart and I pray that You continue to give me great ideas of how to help Your people. Father I thank you for this time with You and I pray for all of the readers, please bless them.

I love You and I pray in Your great Name,

Amen.

2 Chronicles 28-30

Your Past - 2 Chronicles 28-30

Insight Into Scripture

Today, we read about two more kings; Ahaz and his son Hezekiah. Ahaz did not do what was right in the LORD's eyes, but, Hezekiah was a very good king.Ahaz sacrificed some of his children to his god. This is called "sons passing through the fire" (28:3).

The Levites (Priests) did not play a major role for about a century. Hezekiah restored them back to the purpose they where chosen for (29:4-15).

Bringing the Bible Alive

This is a picture of the Kidron Valley. When Hezekiah and the Levites were cleaning and purifying the Temple (29:15-17). The Levites brought everything that was unclean out of the Temple and put it in the Kidron Valley.

The Kidron Valley borders the City of David on the east side. You can click inside the picture to see more pictures of the City of David.

Scripture Verse

1 Ahaz was twenty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem. And he did not do what was right in the eyes of the LORD, as his father David had done, 2 but he walked in the ways of the kings of Israel. He even made metal images for the Baals, 3 and he made offerings in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom and burned his sons as an offering, according to the abominations of the nations whom the LORD drove out before the people of Israel. 4 And he sacrificed and made offerings on the high places and on the hills and under every green tree.

27 And Ahaz slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the city, in Jerusalem, for they did not bring him into the tombs of the kings of Israel. And Hezekiah his son reigned in his place.

1 Hezekiah began to reign when he was twenty-five years old, and he reigned twenty-nine years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Abijah[a] the daughter of Zechariah. 2 And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, according to all that David his father had done. - 2 Chronicles 28:1-4, 27, 29:1-2

Thought For the Day

I have heard people say that your children are what you are. They will take on your traits, the good and sometimes your faults. In fact I have talked to several men who will blame their upbringing for the mistakes that they are making today. I know that some parents have crossed the line and done things that they should have not, those are totally different situations.

As I was reading about Ahaz and his son Hezekiah I could not help but to think about that father/son relationship. Ahaz was not a good king, and from reading what I did, as he sacrificed his children to his gods, I would guess he was not a good father either.

But, here comes his son Hezekiah. I do not know the mind of Hezekiah, but it sounds like from the beginning his heart was set to do the right thing (29:3). I am sure that he could of relied on what his father did and what he saw his father do. But Hezekiah did the opposite of what his father did. His father corrupted the temple with idols; Hezekiah cleaned them out. If Hezekiah carried on what his father did, I am sure nobody would have thought twice about it. But, Hezekiah boldly ventured into new territory.

Whatever our past was, we need to make a difference in the world we live in today. We need to teach our children and young people that they need to do the same. GOD honors people that want to make a difference for HIM. GOD honors the people that make what is important to HIM, important to them. As we will read in the upcoming chapters, GOD was pleased with Hezekiah and blessed him.Are you making an impact in today's world for HIM?

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus

You are the best Father God, and I pray that i can learn from your examples of love and forgiveness. I pray that I can be a shining light in Your world and make You proud. Father I pray that everyday You show me a way that I can help change Your world and I pray that I see and hear You so that I can rise up to the challenge.

I love You and I pray in Your Name, Amen.

Memorial Day - 2 Chronicles 25-27

Memorial Day - 2 Chronicles 25-27
Insight Into Scripture

Good morning! Today, we are going to be reading chapters 25 - 27. We read about three kings; Amaziah, Uzziah, and Jotham. Amaziah and Uzziah started out great, but during their reign both fell to sin against the LORD.Uzziah's offense was a direct violation of priestly prerogatives concerning temple worship (26:16-19)

Bringing the Bible AliveI pray that you have had a safe a fun Memorial Day Weekend so far. This is a picture of The Tower of David located on the western side of the old city. It is the main entrance from the western section to the eastern. In ancient times this section was the north- west corner of the "upper city", and the tower and walls were built to protect this side.

Scripture Verse
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. - John 15:13

Thought for the Day
Today is the day that we observe the men and woman that have paid the ultimate price for our freedom here in the United States of America.
As I am sitting here it is hard for me sometimes to believe that GOD is in control. With the war going on and the shootings that take place, it seems to me like a world that is out of control. But, GOD is in control and HE is sovereign. In fact we are told in the Bible that the events that are happening right now are just birthing pains, there are more unhappy events that are going to take place before Christ will reign and we will be with Him for eternity. Amen to that!

Today, I think that it would be proper to remember those who did fall for our freedom. Let us remember and pray for the families that were and are left behind. Pray for GOD to comfort them.
I would take time to remember and pray for the men and women that are still fighting today. Pray for our leaders and The President, whether you agree with him or not, he is there, because GOD wanted him there. Let us be Jesus here on earth today. If you know of a family that has loved ones serving, call them up or visit them. Try and think of what Jesus would say? What would He do? Be that extension of Jesus' love and caring here on earth.
There was one more thought that came to mind tonight. Let us not forget who paid our price for spiritual freedom; JESUS. He came to earth..... from heaven, fought an intense 3 year battle. Was brutally tortured, then paid the ultimate price for us by dying on the Cross. But, Jesus is bigger than death, so we will see Him again someday. Thank you Jesus!Where ever Jesus may take you today, have a safe and fun Memorial Day! God Bless!

Closing Prayer
Dear JesusI pray the prayer above, I pray that You will meet those people out there and let them feel Your presence and love. Thank You Father for being such a comfort.
I love You and I pray in Your Name, Amen

Here are two quick pictures. The first one is of Pikes Market...... place of great coffee!
The second one is of the Puget Sound with a ferry coming in.
Pretty Cool State!
Jim

2 Chronicles 14-17

BIBLE Stands For:

Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth -

2 Chronicles 14-17

Insight Into Scripture

In today's reading we read about the life of Asa; the King of Judah. After Asa passed away; Jehoshaphat succeeded Asa as king.Asa's foot disease may have been gout (not very common in biblical times) or gangrene. The fact that Asa chose to contact only physicians, who were associated with magical rituals or, at best, herbal remedies. This foot disease contributed to his death.

Bringing the Bible Alive

This is a picture of Maresha. Asa went to battle with the LORD on his side in the Valley of Zephathah near Maresha, and won. (14:10) If you click inside the picture you will see a Columbarium. It was a place where they raised and kept pigeons for food and their dung, which was used for fertilizer. This particular picture has room for 1,900 pigeons. That is alot of poop! These pictures are from Bibleplaces.com

Scripture Reading

And Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of the LORD his God. 3 He took away the foreign altars and the high places and broke down the pillars and cut down the Asherim 4 and commanded Judah to seek the LORD, the God of their fathers, and to keep the law and the commandment. 5 He also took out of all the cities of Judah the high places and the incense altars. And the kingdom had rest under him. 6 He built fortified cities in Judah, for the land had rest. He had no war in those years, for the LORD gave him peace. - 2 Chronicles 14:2-6 ESV

Thought for the Day

Don't you love that saying? The Bible stands for Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. How true! GOD gave us this entire book of good examples, bad examples, and life lessons from Jesus and other great men and women of faith. It is a wonderful resource for us to learn from those who have failed and succeeded. If your life is not going well, you can turn to the Bible for guidance and examples. Today, we read about King Asa, I believe that by taking a look at his life there is much to learn.

To sum up King Asa's life, he was a good king and served the LORD. He was very dedicated to HIM and the LORD gave him rest. When in battle, King Asa called upon the LORD and HE saved him..... no, the LORD "Crushed" his enemy; The Cushites (14:13). About the middle of his story; Azariah had some wise words for King Asa; "The LORD is with you, when you are with HIM. If you seek HIM, HE will be found by you, but if you forsake HIM, HE will forsake you"(15:2). These are GREAT words that King Asa did not heed for his future.

Yes, King Asa was living a GOD filled life for 35 years (15:19)...... until a problem arose, he looked to the King of Aram and earthly treasures to save him, not GOD. (16:2) GOD even sent a seer; Hanani (16:7) to show him that he did not rely on GOD but relied on another human. Hanani helped King Asa remember how GOD came through for him with the Cushites.... I just wanted to stop for a minute..... I believe that alot of times GOD sends people into our lives for good and bad. Are you receptive to them, even if it is bad?

To move on with the story, I believe this was a critical turning point for King Asa. He would still have to live with the consequences of sin, but he had a choice to harden his heart or be humble and repent. He hardened his heart, became angry, put Hanani the Seer in prison and oppressed some of the people.

I am afraid the story does not get any better. King Asa 4 years later was afflicted with a disease, the Bible says something very interesting. (Me being sick with a disease you tend to notice anything that talks about sickness). King Asa did not seek help from the LORD, but only from physicians. King Asa died two years later.

I hope that looking at King Asa's life has helped you, maybe if not now, hopefully when your next problem arises you can use King Asa as an example.

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus

Father thank You for the day and I am thankful for the sunshine, birds and all the life that You place around me everyday. Father I pray today that I will see the good and the bad that You send my way and that I learn from each of those. I pray that I am able to utilize each to better Your kingdom.

I love You and I pray in Your Name,

Amen

2 Chronicles 10-13

GOD LOVES to Come Through - 2 Chronicles 10-13

Insight Into Scripture

After the death of Solomon in chapter 9 we start to read about some very good kings and some very bad kings.When Rehoboam referred to his father using whips and he was going to use scorpions for punishment. (10:11) Scorpions is a type of whip that had metal or glass attached to the tips. If you saw The Passion, the whip that was used to whip Jesus would have been like this. :(

Bringing the Bible Alive

In this picture el-Maqatir is left center; Wadi Sheban is right. This is near Bethel, the town that Abijah took from Jeroboam in battle, along with 2 towns and villages.If you love to read a good story about GOD coming through for HIS people when the odds are against them, read on. There is a really good story. These photos are taken from Bibleplaces.com.

Scripture Reading

Now there was war between Abijah and Jeroboam. 3 Abijah went out to battle, having an army of valiant men of war, 400,000 chosen men. And Jeroboam drew up his line of battle against him with 800,000 chosen mighty warriors. 4 Then Abijah stood up on Mount Zemaraim that is in the hill country of Ephraim and said, "Hear me, O Jeroboam and all Israel! 5 Ought you not to know that the LORD God of Israel gave the kingship over Israel forever to David and his sons by a covenant of salt?

10 But as for us, the LORD is our God, and we have not forsaken him. We have priests ministering to the LORD who are sons of Aaron, and Levites for their service. 11 They offer to the LORD every morning and every evening burnt offerings and incense of sweet spices, set out the showbread on the table of pure gold, and care for the golden lampstand that its lamps may burn every evening. For we keep the charge of the LORD our God, but you have forsaken him. 12 Behold, God is with us at our head, and his priests with their battle trumpets to sound the call to battle against you. O sons of Israel, do not fight against the LORD, the God of your fathers, for you cannot succeed."

13 Jeroboam had sent an ambush around to come upon them from behind. Thus his troops were in front of Judah, and the ambush was behind them. 14 And when Judah looked, behold, the battle was in front of and behind them. And they cried to the LORD, and the priests blew the trumpets. 15 Then the men of Judah raised the battle shout. And when the men of Judah shouted, God defeated Jeroboam and all Israel before Abijah and Judah. 16 The men of Israel fled before Judah, and God gave them into their hand. - 2 Chronicles 13:2-5, 10-16.

Thought for the Day

I LOVE these kind of stories. I did not paste the entire story, it was too long, so if you wanted to read the entire story it is all of chapter 13. To recap the story for you, Abijah was King of Judah. There was war between he and Jeroboam, Abijah was out numbered two to one. But Abijah had something Jeroboam did not have...... GOD! Even when Jeroboam tried to trick Abijah by ambushing him, Jeroboam could NOT trick GOD. GOD intervened and delivered Jeroboam over to Abijah.

I really believe that GOD LOVES to come through. HE LOVES to be the earthly underdog, and come shining through. This same GOD that fought for Abijah is YOUR GOD. I think that sometimes we forget this, or maybe we think that this does not happen anymore because the Bible was written so LONG ago. WRONG!

GOD does not change. HE loves to see you happy and HE loves to see you win; there is only one pre- requisite, and Abijah presented it clearly, GOD was his GOD, Abijah did not worship anything else. Abijah thought of GOD in the morning and night, God is his leader, and when Abijah realized that he was in trouble he did not fight back or rely on earthly wisdom, he cried out to the LORD. In other words GOD was the center of Abijah's universe.

Is GOD the center of your universe? Do you have a relationship like Abijah did? When in trouble do you give GOD the chance to rescue you or do you try and work it out on your own? GOD wants to see you happy and wants to rescue you, are you giving HIM the chance?

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus

Thank You Father for this great day that we were able to spend with You with great thanksgiving in our hearts. Father thank You, that even on the day that we are giving You thanksgiving, You still continue to give. You are so Awesome Father and we are so not worthy. I pray Father that I will continue to seek a better relationship with You and continue to grow in my Christianity.

I love You and I pray, Amen.

2 Chronicles 7-9

Feast of Weeks - 2 Chronicles 7-9
Insight Into Scripture
Good Morning! Today we are reading 2 Chronicles 7- 9. In chapters 7 & 8 Solomon dedicated the Temple to the LORD, then the LORD appears to Solomon and expresses HIS covenant to Solomon and HIS people. Chapter 9 we read about the visit of Queen Sheba and the death of our king. I found it interesting that in Chronicles the writer did not go into the details of Solomon's sin.

Bringing the Bible AliveThis is a picture of the Western Wall. My prayer for these devotionals and you is that they will bring you closer in your relationship with GOD. One of our readers was commenting on the lack of Biblical teaching in today's world. As the world progresses, I believe that we need to hold onto our past. I hope that today's devotional will bless you.

Scripture Reading
20 The Lord came down upon Mount Sinai, on the top of the mountain, and the Lord called Moses to the top of the mountain and Moses went up. 21 The Lord said to Moses, "Go down, warn the people not to break through to the Lord to gaze, lest many of them perish. 22 The priests also, who come near the Lord, must stay pure, lest the Lord break out against them." 23 But Moses said to the Lord, "The people cannot come up to Mount Sinai, for You warned us saying, 'Set bounds about the mountain and sanctify it.'" 24 So the Lord said to him, "Go down, and come back together with Aaron; but let not the priests or the people break through to come up to the Lord, lest He break out against them." 25 And Moses went down to the people and spoke to them.

Chapter 20
1 God spoke all these words, saying:
2 I the Lord am your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt, the house of bondage: 3 You shall have no other gods besides Me.
4 You shall not make for yourself a sculptured image, or any likeness of what is in the heavens above, or on the earth below, or in the waters under the earth. 5 You shall not bow down to them or serve them. For I the Lord your God am an impassioned God, visiting the guilt of the parents upon the children, upon the third and upon the fourth generations of those who reject Me, 6 but showing kindness to the thousandth generation of those who love Me and keep My commandments.
7 You shall not swear falsely by the name of the Lord your God; for the Lord will not clear one who swears falsely by His name.
8 Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath of the Lord your God: you shall not do any work - you, your son or daughter, your male or female slave, or your cattle, or the stranger who is within your settlements. 11 For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth and sea, and all that is in them, and He rested on the seventh day; therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.
12 Honor your father and your mother, that you may long endure on the land that the Lord your God is assigning to you.
13 You shall not murder.You shall not commit adultery.You shall not steal.You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
14 You shall not covet your neighbor's house: you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male or female slave, or his ox or his ass, or anything that is your neighbor's. - Exodus 19:20-25, 20:1-14 JPS Tanakh

Thought for the Day
As our society progresses, we leave more and more of GOD out of us. In a way this does not come as a surprise to me, but it does sadden me. That is why I believe that we need to hold onto some of the old traditions, such as, when the Jews had a holiday to remember GOD.
Today is known as The Feast of Weeks (Pentecost) and historically it is known as Shavu'ot. All of these "Feasts" are in the Bible in the Old Testament. One might say that because they are in the Old Testament we need not pay attention to them. But, as I read them, GOD states that this is a lasting ordinances for generations to come. Are we not the generations to come?
Shavu'ot celebrates the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai. No work is done on this day and the book of Ruth is read. Ruth was a non-Jewish woman whose love for God and Torah led her to convert to Judaism. Ruth was born and died on Shavu'ot.
The significance of The Feast of Weeks was an agricultural festival. This was a time when the first fruits were harvested and brought to the Temple as an expression of thanksgiving to YAHWEH.
So, what does this mean for us today? As I stated above, I feel that our lives have gotten so busy we do not have much time for GOD anymore. It is nice to take time.... a special day other than Sunday, to give thanks to GOD. I would suggest that we take today and reflect on how GOD has blessed our lives. If you feel lead, I might give back to GOD in either money, time, or a gift, just like our ancestors did when they brought a gift of "First Fruits.
For me, and this is very HARD, I am somewhat of a work-a-holic. I am going to take the day off and honor and reflect on YAHWEH as the feast states. Whatever kind of a day you have, may it be a Blessed one!

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Father thank you for this day. Today Father as we observe the gifts that You have given, which we try to thank You for and bring glory to You everyday, but this just being one day for us to sacrifice for You. Father I just pray thanksgivings today and I realize that life is nothing without You.
Thank You and I love you,
Amen.

2 Chronicles 4-6

Our True Father - 2 Chronicles 4-6

Insight Into Scripture

Good Morning! Today we are going to move through chapters 4-6. Starting with chapter 4 we read about the furnishing for the temple, then in chapter 5 how the Ark is brought into the Temple, and finally Solomon says a prayer to dedicate the Temple.When you are reading notice the amount of precious metals that went into the temple. Twice it is stated that it was too much to be counted or recorded.

Bringing the Bible Alive

This is a picture of The Western Wall. This surviving Western Wall is considered to be the most holy Jewish Site due to the proximity of destroyed anciet temples. I found a site to see the Western Wall on a live Web cam, click HER E to see a live picture. To read more about Solomon's temple you can click inside the picture of The Western Wall.

Scripture Reading

5 And of all my sons (for the LORD has given me many sons) HE has chosen Solomon my son to sit on the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel. 6 HE said to me, 'It is Solomon your son who shall build my house and my courts, for I have chosen him to be my son, and I will be his father. - 1 Chronicles 28:5-6

Thought for the Day

I know that the verses come from our past readings, but they have been hanging around in my head. Our men's group is discussing how GOD is our true Father. Some of us, if not all, men and women alike may have felt like our earthly fathers let them down or disappointed us in some way. Some of our earthly fathers may have done much worse. But, the wonderful news is that no matter the relationship with our earthly fathers, we have our true Father who will never let us down!

If we look at David, he had an amazing heart for GOD, but, may have not been the best father in the world. Tamar, his daughter, was raped by her half brother Amnon, and David really did not take care of business. Then there was Absalom his other son who forced David off the throne, then Solomon. David's other son; Solomon was a result of an affair and murder. Whew..... it sounds like a show for Jerry Springer!

We do not know the mind-set of Solomon for David. I am sure that if those were the circumstances in today's world Solomon might have had some ill feelings for his dad. But, here is the part I love, GOD steps in and says, Solomon is MY son, and I will be his FATHER. Forget the past and let us change the future.

GOD says the same thing about YOU today. HE is your true FATHER and HE will never let you down. Now, I know that won't clear up all the feelings and hurts, you might need to get involved into a group to talk out those feelings. But, it is a great light on the future and your new relationship.

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus

Father I pray today that You will lighten my load, carry my burdens and help me to feel the reassurance I have in Your love. Father I pray that I will dig down deep a in my heart and meet You there and know that You love me and that You are my only provider and protector. Thank You for Your unconditional love.

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

2 Chronicles 1-3

Your Tent of Meetings - 2 Chronicles 1-3

Insight Into Scripture

Good Morning! Today we start the 2nd Book of Chronicles. 2 Chronicles may seem like a repeat of 2 Samuel, and in the terms of events it is. But, again try and look deeper to see the hearts of these Biblical characters.It was a common practice for individuals or groups to travel to shrines, make offerings, then sleep before the altar in hopes that they would receive a message from a god. (1:7-12)The size of the total work force to build the temple was 153,600. (2:2)

Bringing the Bible Alive

This is a photo of a peak that dominates the Central Benjamin Plateau and is situated just south and above the city of Gibeon. Most believe that this is the site where the tabernacle stood where King Solomon went to inquire of the LORD and offered 1,000 burnt offerings. 2 Chronicles 1:3-6 . Gibeon is also where Moses had his Tent of Meeting and met with the LORD. Exodus 33:7-11

Scripture Reading

1 Solomon the son of David established himself in his kingdom, and the LORD his GOD was with him and made him exceedingly great.2 Solomon spoke to all Israel, to the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, to the judges, and to all the leaders in all Israel, the heads of fathers' houses. And Solomon, and all the assembly with him, went to the high place that was at Gibeon, for the tent of meeting of God, which Moses the servant of the LORD had made in the wilderness, was there. - 2 Chronicles 1:1-3

Thought for the Day

As I was reading today, this first verse made an impression on me. Solomon was a great man, not because Solomon was great, because GOD was great. GOD was with Solomon and HE made him great. I can't tell you how many times I have done things on my own, they never worked out or worked out to my expectation. But, when GOD is with me, things turned out great. In fact our last venture Kim and I listened to GOD, and asked HIM to be with us, things turned out far beyond what our minds could have ever dreamed up.

Do you have a Tent of Meetings? The term Tent of Meetings first came from Moses. Moses would pitch an ordinary tent some distance from the camp. If a person wanted to inquire of GOD they would go to the Tent of Meetings. But when Moses went into the Tent of Meetings a pillar of cloud would come down and stay at the entrance.

In Exodus the Bible says that GOD would talk to Moses face to face as you would speak to your best friend. You can look up Exodus 33 for more dialogue between GOD and Moses. It is one of my favorite passages in scripture. In fact I have to say that I am jealous of Moses and his amazing relationship.

Fast forward to today's reading, Solomon does the same thing. Solomon wanted to inquire of GOD, so he went to the Tent of Meetings, and GOD spoke to him. Do you see where I am heading with this? Do you have your Tent of Meetings?

Do you have a special place where you can meet with GOD face to face? A place where you can go to seek or inquire of GOD? It should be a place of peace or have some special meaning. Maybe it is a quiet room, maybe it is out in your garden, maybe it is a place in the mountains or by the ocean. Wherever you go, it should be a place where you connect with GOD. GOD wants to show Himself to you, all you need to do it ask.

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus

Thank You Father for my salvation, thank You for showing me how to get there. Father I pray that you will join me in my day and lead me and help me to follow. I pray that in the craziness I will find You and we can just sit and chat. I love that You are so accessible and easy to talk to, thank You.

I love You and I pray, Amen.

1 Chronicles 21-23

Know Your Enemy! - 1 Chronicles 21-23

Insight Into Scripture

Today, we read chapters 21 to 23. The Bible records 2 of King David's sins. In Chapter 21 we read about one of those sins. satan tempted David into the sin of pride, by taking a census in the land. This angers YAHWEH and for this sin, David's people pay a high price.

Chapter 22 tells us how David aided his son Solomon in getting preparations for building the temple.

100,000 talents of gold is an immense amount of gold. Its weight of 3750 TONS would fetch about $45 BILLION at today's prices (22:14). This is the largest amount of gold that is mentioned in the Old Testament.

1,000,000 talents of silver is an enormous amount! Almost 40,000 tons, this far exceeds anything else from biblical or extra biblical sources.

In chapter 23 we read how David makes his son, Solomon, king and how he divided the Levites who were the tribe designated to be priests.

Bringing the Bible Alive

This is a drawing of the Angel of the LORD. The Angel of the LORD is a specific Angel that carries out GOD's commands and judgements.In our readings I found it fascinating that while The Angel of the LORD was carrying out GOD's judgement against Israel, David saw the Angel with sword drawn (21:16). This must have made quite an impression on David, in 1 Chronicles 21:30 the Bible says that David was afraid to inquire of GOD, due to his fear of the Angel. Araunah also saw the Angel of the LORD in 1 Chronicles 21:20, after seeing him he hid with his four sons.

Have you ever wondered if he is huge, or very bright? When most people met him they were afraid. I guess we will find out when we go home, right?

Scripture Reading

1 And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel.

2 And David said to Joab and to the rulers of the people, Go, number Israel from Beersheba even to Dan; and bring the number of them to me, that I may know it.

3 And Joab answered, The LORD make his people an hundred times so many more as they be: but, my lord the king, are they not all my lord's servants? why then doth my lord require this thing? why will he be a cause of trespass to Israel?

4 Nevertheless the king's word prevailed against Joab. Wherefore Joab departed, and went throughout all Israel, and came to Jerusalem.

7 And God was displeased with this thing; therefore he smote Israel.

13 And David said unto Gad, I am in a great strait: let me fall now into the hand of the LORD; for very great are his mercies: but let me not fall into the hand of man.

14 So the LORD sent pestilence upon Israel: and there fell of Israel seventy thousand men.

15 And God sent an angel unto Jerusalem to destroy it: and as he was destroying, the LORD beheld, and he repented him of the evil, and said to the angel that destroyed, It is enough, stay now thine hand. And the angel of the LORD stood by the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite. - 1 Chronicles 21:1-4, 7, 13-15 KJV

Thought for the Day

I used the King James Version today, I liked the words to describe satan's actions. There were two thoughts today that I wanted to share with you. The first was our enemy; satan. The Bible does not say much about satan and how he effects us. There is an example here in the book of Job. Notice how the Bible describes satan's actions, he "Stood up against Israel".

When my son and I are arguing, and I have had enough, I stand up. I guess it is my way of making myself superior and usually by that time I am pretty heated ready for a big fight. I can see satan using the same thought process, this is an aggressive stance towards YOU, he is ready for a fight and wants to make himself look bigger than the tiny being that he is.

The other word that I found interesting was; he "Provoked" David. I looked up "Provoke" in the dictionary.

It means:

1. To incite to anger or resentment

2. To stir to action or feeling.

satan is a BULLY! I had a bully in school once and there was two ways that I would deal with him. First, I would ignore him, I would realize that he did not have much self confidence so he had to hurt others to make himself feel better. The other way that I would deal with this person, I would go and get my BIG friend to deal with him. That bully was not so tough when he saw how I had a big friend next to my side. I learned that when I kept my BIG friend around me, the bully would steer clear of me.

Do you see the connection here? You can't win if you fight and argue with satan. He has had YEARS of experience, but, you can ignore him. Focus your attention to your BIG friend JESUS. Look at that sad little bully (satan) and tell him, "If you are going to mess with me, you are going to have to mess with my BIG friend JESUS". Watch him pee his pants and run scared. Heh Heh Heh

The other point that I wanted you to see is how sin hurts not only us, but the people around us. Because of David's prideful sin 70,000 men died. I know that David felt awful, in verse 21:17 David refers to them as sheep and asked to put the judgement on himself and his family.

Have a BLESSED Weekend and keep up with your reading. Find some Jesus time this weekend to be alone with your BIG friend!

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus

Father I pray that we have lots of time together as usual this weekend, I pray that there will be some Divine appointments for me. Father I pray that You will continue to give me the strength to know when the enemy is upon me and I turn to You for cover.

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

1 Chronicles 17-20

Your Dreams - 1 Chronicles 17-20
Insight Into Scripture
Today we read in chapter 17 how King David had the desire to build GOD a temple, but we find out that YAHWEH had a different plan.We then finish off with the different battles that David fought.

Bringing the Bible Alive
This is an artist's drawing of Solomon's Bronze Sea. The bronze that Solomon used came from his father; King David. (1 Chronicles 18:8) The Bronze Sea is held up by twelve oxen. The Bronze Sea held about 16,000 gallons of water. In the Bronze Sea priests washed their feet and hands. The Bronze Sea stood about 14 feet high. It always just amazes me what structures they built without our modern day tools.

Scripture Reading
1 Now when David lived in his house, David said to Nathan the prophet, "Behold, I dwell in a house of cedar, but the ark of the covenant of the LORD is under a tent." 2 And Nathan said to David, "Do all that is in your heart, for God is with you."
3 But that same night the word of the LORD came to Nathan, "Go and tell my servant David, 'Thus says the LORD: It is not you who will build me a house to dwell in. 5 For I have not lived in a house since the day I brought up Israel to this day, but I have gone from tent to tent and from dwelling to dwelling. 6 In all places where I have moved with all Israel, did I speak a word with any of the judges of Israel, whom I commanded to shepherd my people, saying, "Why have you not built me a house of cedar?"' - 1 Chronicles 17:1-6 ESV

Thought for the Day
As we have been reading about David, one could tell he had a heart for GOD. He was always thinking of ways to please HIM. Yesterday, we read about how David tried to bring back the Ark. Today, we read about how David wanted to build GOD a palace for HIS Ark to rest in. Yes, David did have a heart for GOD.
If all you wanted to do was to desperately please a person, and you came up with this great idea, even your friend said it was a good idea. But, when your idea got back to the person it was for, they said they did not want it, I can imagine you would get your feelings hurt. This is what happened to David.
In your life, your dreams may not match up to GOD's plans. Even if your dreams have the right motives and heart, it may not be where GOD needs you or wants you. I know this all to well. I want to be a pastor so badly, but through events in my life, like my sickness, it was like GOD was telling me, "I know your dreams, but I know better, and where I am going to take you, you will be blessed; trust me." It took me a while to accept that, and if GOD presented me with the opportunity again, I would jump at it. Maybe, like David I will live my dreams through my son; the future Pastor.
So, I know it is hard not to live your dreams, but GOD is sovereign, we need to have the acceptance and praise that David had in 17:16-27. He did not pout or get mad, I bet that he could have even started the temple, but he would have not had GOD's blessing on it. No, David knew that GOD was/is in control and knows best for him and us.
One other thought........ notice how GOD does not need a fancy place to live in. HE was happy to live in a tent just like HIS people, and move from place to place, just like HIS people. All GOD needs is your welcoming heart. :)

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Thank You for this day Lord, for the sun that rises to shine in my face everyday. Father I pray that I will dream big, because I know that You can do things beyond my wildest imagination, but Father give me the strength and courage to take the times when my dreams are not Your plans. I know Father that Your plan is always alot better than what I can even wish for myself. Than You for that surprise You always have for me.
I love You and I pray in Your name, Amen.

1 Chronicles 14-16

Do You Inquire? - 1 Chronicles 14-16
Insight Into Scripture
Today in chapter 14 we read how King David defeats the Philistines twice, his fame was quickly spreading throughout the land.
Chapters 15 & 16 tell how King David, for the second time tried to bring the Ark back to Jerusalem. He was successful, and there was much rejoicing in the land!

Bringing the Bible Alive
This is a photo of the Ark of GOD (15:1) It is a model, but it is life size. This is an amazing article. It was YAHWEH on earth. There were 3 items in the Ark; The Ten Commandments, the rod of Aaron that blossomed, and the pot of manna. This is actually a park in Israel that is a a life-size replica of the biblical tabernacle. These photos were taken from Bibleplaces.

Scripture Reading
9 Now the Philistines had come and made a raid in the Valley of Rephaim. 10 And David inquired of God, "Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will you give them into my hand?" And the LORD said to him, "Go up, and I will give them into your hand."
13 And the Philistines yet again made a raid in the valley. 14 And when David again inquired of God, God said to him, "You shall not go up after them; go around and come against them opposite the balsam trees. 15 And when you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, then go out to battle, for God has gone out before you to strike down the army of the Philistines." 16 And David did as God commanded him, and they struck down the Philistine army from Gibeon to Gezer.
13 Because you did not carry it the first time, the LORD our God broke out against us, because we did not seek him according to the rule." - 1 Chronicles 14:9- 10, 13-16, 15:13 ESV

Thought for the Day
In chapter 13 we read where David had the right heart and motives. He wanted to bring the Ark back to Jerusalem, so he set out on what he thought was right, but along the way the Ark began to slip and a man; Uzzah reached to catch it. The LORD's anger burned against Uzzah and HE killed him. At face value you would think, "What are you doing LORD? They were just trying to do the right thing?"
Then we read in chapter 14 where David inquired of the LORD before he took action, and YAHWEH gave him victory. In fact the second time in verses 14:13 it is like GOD wanted to have fun, HE wanted to be involved in the fight. HE could have told David; "Yes, go and attack, and I will give them to you." No, it is like the LORD said let's do this together, I want to be involved. So when you hear the wind in the balsam trees, that is I.
Then in verse 15:13 David made the connection of why Uzzah died. He did not inquire of GOD, he did not involve Him even though his motives where right.
GOD wants so badly to be involved in your life. Do you include him? Or do you go about your whole day without even including HIM in any decision or situation that you have to make? Not only the "Life and Death" decisions, but the little ones?I believe in saying breath prayers all day long. I try to talk to GOD all day long, I even ask HIM silly questions, like where should I plant this tree? Watching me you might think that I am silly, I do sometimes talk out loud to HIM, my wife says that I look funny talking to myself, call me crazy for Christ. :)
If you are not including Jesus in your day to day decisions, try it. I think that you might find GOD has a sense of humor and things just might start going your way more often, like David with the Philistines.

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Thank You Father for always being open to me. Thank You for always letting me just talk to You. I know that that is a desire of Yours, to be closer, and I too want that very much. I pray Father that I can gain that more and more everyday. I pray that I can just pour out my heart to You and not worry about the words or the proper prayer.
I love You Father, I pray in Your name,
Amen.

1 Chronicles 11-13

Are You Prepared? - 1 Chronicles 11-13
Insight Into Scripture
Today we start with David capturing Jerusalem, then chapter 12 goes deeper into the men that fought by David's side. David must have been an amazing leader to have all those men dedicate themselves to him.
Then in chapter 13 David brings back the Ark from Kiriath Jearim, a place where it rested 20 years. - Thanks Donna :-) - this is where Uzzah dies when he tried to save the Ark from falling. The Bible states that David was angry; I can imagine he was, he was trying to do the right thing and this happened.
Left-handedness was not accepted in the ancient world, it was generally associated with evil or demons. But in battle, it was an advantage (12:2)

Bringing the Bible Alive
This photo is of Kiriath Jearim. In chapter 13 David attempts to move the Ark from Abinadab's house. The Ark rested here for 20 years (1 Sam 7). Kiriath Jearim was known for being the center of Baal Worship. When Uzzah was killed by trying to save the Ark, it rested in Obed-Edom. It remained there 3 months, while it was there YAHWEH blessed his house. This photo is taken from Biblplaces.com

Scripture Reading
David Takes Jerusalem 4 And David and all Israel went to Jerusalem, that is Jebus, where the Jebusites were, the inhabitants of the land. 5 The inhabitants of Jebus said to David, "You will not come in here." Nevertheless, David took the stronghold of Zion, that is, the city of David. - 1 Chronicles 11:4-5

Thought for the Day
This portion of scripture intrigued me. There is not much said other than after David was anointed king, he then takes over Jerusalem. So, I did a little research. (When you are reading the Bible, always ask WHY)
Jerusalem or Yrusalaim / Yruslem means foundation of shalem or peace. Now it is starting to make more sense. Before David could take on the world and all of the troubles that were in it, he needed a place of peace. He needed a place that he could feel safe, a place where he could connect with YAHWEH and discover who this being was that was pursuing him.
Now let's bridge that part of scripture to our modern day. Do you have a Yrusalaim? Do you have a safe place in your world, a place of peace? A place that you can meet with Jesus one on one?
Our world comes at us 24/7. Some days I feel that I am attacked from all sides, I strive to be Jesus with skin, but, the world is mean and unforgiving sometimes. If I did not have my Yrusalaim than I could go and pour my heart out.... sometimes yell...... sometimes cry....... sometimes overwhelmed with joy..... whatever the feeling, I always end up with peace. It is a place where I can fill up on Jesus.
Where is your Jerusalem?

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Thank You Father for this day, thank You for the time we get to have together. Father I pray that I seek for time with You everyday, that I remember that You are always available for me to lean on. Thank You for loving me that much.
I love You Father, In Jesus name,
Amen.

1 Chronicles 8-10

Are You Prepared? - 1 Chronicles 8-10
Insight Into Scripture
Now that we have finished reading the genealogy that started with Adam and ends with King David, the rest of 1 Chronicles takes an in depth, spiritual look at King David. GOD has devoted such a large portion of the Bible to King David, I know there is alot that we can learn from his life.

Bringing the Bible Alive
This is a picture of Mount Gilboa. This is where King Saul and his sons where found dead from battle. Mount Gilboa is not a single mountain, but a barren ridge rising to a high point of 1,700 feet, separating the Harod Valley from the plain of Jezreel, it lies about 7 miles west of the Jordan River. Click in the picture to see more photos. This photo is taken from Biblplaces.com

Scripture Reading
28 Some of them had charge of the utensils of service, for they were required to count them when they were brought in and taken out. 29 Others of them were appointed over the furniture and over all the holy utensils, also over the fine flour, the wine, the oil, the incense, and the spices. 30 Others, of the sons of the priests, prepared the mixing of the spices, 31 and Mattithiah, one of the Levites, the firstborn of Shallum the Korahite, was entrusted with making the flat cakes. 32 Also some of their kinsmen of the Kohathites had charge of the showbread, to prepare it every Sabbath. 33 Now these, the singers, the heads of fathers' houses of the Levites, were in the chambers of the temple free from other service, for they were on duty day and night. - 1 Chronicles 9:28-33 ESV

Thought for the Day
It is Monday morning, the day after The Sabbath, how are you feeling? Did church reset your spiritual tank, or are you feeling just as empty and stressed out as Friday? Maybe we should back up for a minute, I would hope that you are attending church regularly. Besides the fact that it should refresh and fill you up, it is a great place for community.

As I was reading chapter 9 I could not help to think how much preparation went into The LORD's Tabernacle. The priest and Levites put a great deal of time and care into worship. From more details on their tasks you can read Leviticus 1-9. GOD intends our worship to be taken seriously. Just think about it, this is the one day, out the six others that we can come and meet with Our Creator for maybe an hour or two. That is not much time dedicated to the one we are going to spend eternity with.
Where is your heart and mind when you are at church? Are you focused on worshipping HIM? Or are you thinking about all the tasks that you have to get done when you get home? Did you rush to get the kids up, fed, and rushed out the door, when you get to church you are totally stressed out. Or have you prepared your heart and mind before you entered the doors.
We spend so much time on ourselves, doing the things that we want or need to do. When we do have time to spend with Christ I pray that we take it seriously and that we can really focus on HIM and take the time to give thanks for all the Blessings He has given us and the sacrifices He has made. The next time you attend church I would encourage you to examine where your heart and your head is. - Have a Blessed Day! Talk to you tomorrow.

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Good morning Father, I pray that You had a restful Sabbath. I thank You father for the time I get to share with You, the fellowship and the family time. I pray Father for those that do not get to experience that unconditional love, I pray that someone will step into their lives and teach them about You. I pray father that You will send someone to me today that I may help see You, give me the words Father and the courage to do so. To know Your love is the most amazing thing, thank You for that.
I love you and I pray in Your great name,
Amen.

Bible Trivia
What women lay at the feet of Boaz in a threshing floor - initiating a relationship that culminated in marriage?
Hint: Ruth 3:7-9

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Tuesday's Reading - 1 Chronicles 11-13
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1 Chronicles 1-2

MY Burden is Light - 1 Chronicles 1-2
Insight Into Scripture
Today we start 1 Chronicles. Chronicles were written around 430 BC, and was written by Ezra. The books were written to the people of Israel.The first 9 chapters are alot of genealogy. This is done to record the names in history, but also so we can trace back Jesus' roots.

Bringing the Bible Alive
As we start into Chronicles you might think that you have JUST read the same stores in 2 Samuel and Kings; you are right. But, in 2 Samuel and Kings the stories are written from a political standpoint. Chronicles are written from a spiritual perspective. I guess it is like reading all the 4 gospels, each one has something different to offer, we need to look for the spiritual message and what Christ is telling us.

Scripture Reading
25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? - Matthew 6:25
34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. - Matthew 6:34
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." - Matthew 11:30 - NIV

Thought for the Day
Yes, there are some parts of the Bible that are a little dry. Today, although very important, tracing the genealogy back to Adam can be..... well...... dry. So, I thought that I would share what has been on my mind lately.
I have been meditating on the verses above lately. We own our own business, there are some wonderful benefits, but there are some drawbacks. You do not have a weekly pay check handed to you. You have to drive and make your business work. In my other jobs, even if it was a bad time for the company, I still received a paycheck.
I worry about providing for my family (Actually, I do not provide, HE does) but, I think that I have to. It is not like I do not work, I am just the opposite, I have to be dragged away from the computer sometimes. I am working on TRUSTING that GOD will provide for us every month, it is hard for me. The funny thing is is that HE has provided EVERY month, HE has never let me down, but, me being so human......... I worry.
Maybe you can identify with me, maybe not with work issues, but you find yourself worrying about other situations? Money, friends, school, health, you name it. You see, Christ tells us that His yoke is easy and His burden is light OR living a life in Christ is living a worry free life. He planned and wants it that way. Why do we have such a hard time accepting that?
Christ tells us in Matthew 6 that our lives are much more important than the birds, Christ knows every time one falls from the sky. If He cares for those little birds, He IS going to care for you and take care of your needs. Christ wants us to take all the time that we worry about the little things and spend that time worrying about Him.
I know it is hard to give those worries to Christ, but, I am stepping out and taking my light yoke and easy burden Christ promises. How about you?
On a side note..... to help increase my faith, last month I increased our tithing from 10% to 15%. I was stressing! But, guess what....... we had the best month this year, and made the most profit ever......hmmmm.

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Father thank You for always offering to take the yoke. I pray Father that I continue to step in that journey, of trusting You, and only You. Help me to be strong and not focus on what MAY lie ahead and to know that whatever does lie ahead, You are all over it!
I love You and I pray in Your Name, Amen.