Numbers 7:1-89
Again, I am so thankful that I live on this side of Christ. That I have been anointed and consecrated by His blood, His death and resurrection. To be secure in the knowledge that because I am in Him - I am His.
"When Moses entered the Tent of Meeting to speak with God, he heard the Voice speaking to him from between the two angel-cherubim above the Atonement-Cover on the Chest of The Testimony. He spoke with him." (vs89)
I love that all of those in Christ can go into Him and speak with Him, hear Him speak 24/7. We are promised because we are familiar with Him, we will know His voice - that He will call each of us by name.
How thankful I am that by being on this side of Christ, I have an intimate relationship with Him. One of love, not a ritual or sense of duty. One I look forward to , cling to, bask in, and grow in. How thankful I am for His Word to fill me up and give me direction. That He speaks to me, conveys to me just how very loved I am by Him.
To know that His Word is my very own personal love letter from Him.
How I love Him!
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
02/14/12 hard headed learner
Numbers 9:15-23 The Message (MSG)
The Cloud
15-16 "The day The Dwelling was set up, the Cloud covered The Dwelling of the Tent of Testimony. From sunset until daybreak it was over The Dwelling. It looked like fire. It was like that all the time, the Cloud over The Dwelling and at night looking like fire.
17-23 When the Cloud lifted above the Tent, the People of Israel marched out; and when the Cloud descended the people camped. The People of Israel marched at God's command and they camped at his command. As long as the Cloud was over The Dwelling, they camped. Even when the Cloud hovered over The Dwelling for many days, they honored God's command and wouldn't march. They stayed in camp, obedient to God's command, as long as the Cloud was over The Dwelling, but the moment God issued orders they marched. If the Cloud stayed only from sunset to daybreak and then lifted at daybreak, they marched. Night or day, it made no difference—when the Cloud lifted, they marched. It made no difference whether the Cloud hovered over The Dwelling for two days or a month or a year, as long as the Cloud was there, they were there. And when the Cloud went up, they got up and marched. They camped at God's command and they marched at God's command. They lived obediently by God's orders as delivered by Moses."
So much repetition in this passage. A passage for a hard headed learner - like me.
How often instead of following His lead, do I go off on my own schedule? How often do I end up in a place away from where He wants me and yell, "help". Oh how exasperated I get with me. I can only imagine how He must feel.
And then He tells me, "There is nothing you can do that stops me loving you - nothing". And yet, again He rescues me - brings me back to His dwelling. I am learning to watch and wait upon His time, His way. I am learning to Focus, Faith and Trust (FFT). Being in His Word enables me to hear His voice, His direction. And in doing so, I am learning to enjoy life more. To celebrate "camping" and "marching".
In "camping" He has blessed me with many, many memories. Celebrations in getting to know people, to become family with them. To utilize the resources He has given me. To prepare for the march ahead. To be a good steward. To explore the time of "camping". And sometimes, when it is time to "march", I've become so attached to the campsite, it is bittersweet to march onward to the next leg of the journey.
During the "march" though, if I focus on Him, it becomes an adventure. Seeing new sights, sharing experiences with family as we march along together. Knowing our Commander in Chief has everything in His control - FFT.
And He knows when we need to "camp" or "march". He wants what is best for me. He loves me. I pray I will continue to grow and follow His lead. Accept His time - His way. That in all parts of this journey I will step aside and follow Him
I pray I will "live obediently by God's orders". )
The Cloud
15-16 "The day The Dwelling was set up, the Cloud covered The Dwelling of the Tent of Testimony. From sunset until daybreak it was over The Dwelling. It looked like fire. It was like that all the time, the Cloud over The Dwelling and at night looking like fire.
17-23 When the Cloud lifted above the Tent, the People of Israel marched out; and when the Cloud descended the people camped. The People of Israel marched at God's command and they camped at his command. As long as the Cloud was over The Dwelling, they camped. Even when the Cloud hovered over The Dwelling for many days, they honored God's command and wouldn't march. They stayed in camp, obedient to God's command, as long as the Cloud was over The Dwelling, but the moment God issued orders they marched. If the Cloud stayed only from sunset to daybreak and then lifted at daybreak, they marched. Night or day, it made no difference—when the Cloud lifted, they marched. It made no difference whether the Cloud hovered over The Dwelling for two days or a month or a year, as long as the Cloud was there, they were there. And when the Cloud went up, they got up and marched. They camped at God's command and they marched at God's command. They lived obediently by God's orders as delivered by Moses."
So much repetition in this passage. A passage for a hard headed learner - like me.
How often instead of following His lead, do I go off on my own schedule? How often do I end up in a place away from where He wants me and yell, "help". Oh how exasperated I get with me. I can only imagine how He must feel.
And then He tells me, "There is nothing you can do that stops me loving you - nothing". And yet, again He rescues me - brings me back to His dwelling. I am learning to watch and wait upon His time, His way. I am learning to Focus, Faith and Trust (FFT). Being in His Word enables me to hear His voice, His direction. And in doing so, I am learning to enjoy life more. To celebrate "camping" and "marching".
In "camping" He has blessed me with many, many memories. Celebrations in getting to know people, to become family with them. To utilize the resources He has given me. To prepare for the march ahead. To be a good steward. To explore the time of "camping". And sometimes, when it is time to "march", I've become so attached to the campsite, it is bittersweet to march onward to the next leg of the journey.
During the "march" though, if I focus on Him, it becomes an adventure. Seeing new sights, sharing experiences with family as we march along together. Knowing our Commander in Chief has everything in His control - FFT.
And He knows when we need to "camp" or "march". He wants what is best for me. He loves me. I pray I will continue to grow and follow His lead. Accept His time - His way. That in all parts of this journey I will step aside and follow Him
I pray I will "live obediently by God's orders". )
Monday, February 13, 2012
02/13/12 Color
Exodus 37:1-39:31
Color - gold, silver, bronze, blue, purple, and scarlet. Even mirrors to reflect.
As I sit here at our kitchen table, looking out the window, His blanket of snow is beginning to cover the earth. Steadily falling straight down, peaceful and serene. The blanket of white filling in the nooks and crannies of the trees. The contrast against the dark wood is making the graceful, beautiful lines stand out. It looks like a snow globe. And within a few weeks - there will be a riot of color popping out. Pinks, reds, white, yellow, and purple in all different tones.
I love to look at peoples' eyes. The color. Curt has eyes that are a Caribbean sea blue green - just beautiful. They say Elizabeth Taylor's were purple. Our skin tones, the beauty of brown, black, tan, red, white.
I love how He created color. How He created the different senses. I love how He created things for our senses to enjoy. The smell of perfume, freshly washed baby, clothes from the line, the skin of your child. Taste of chocolate first thing in the morning exploding in your mouth, home cooking, desserts. To feel the touch of a loved one, a hug from someone you miss, the squeeze of a hand. To see and soak in the beauty of those you love, the colors, the bright eyes when you are seen. To hear, "I love you", the call of, "mommy", the sound of a child's laughter.
He could have made everything without colors, scents, feel or sound. He didn't. God told Moses exactly what materials and colors to use. Only the best and finest. His Word, His nature, His creations, His people, all tell me He loves color. It amazes me how He utilizes all the same "equipment" and yet no one looks exactly alike out of all His creations.
Our Abba is a God of color, joy, love, laughter - celebration.
My Abba - He gives me treasures for my senses.
Color - gold, silver, bronze, blue, purple, and scarlet. Even mirrors to reflect.
As I sit here at our kitchen table, looking out the window, His blanket of snow is beginning to cover the earth. Steadily falling straight down, peaceful and serene. The blanket of white filling in the nooks and crannies of the trees. The contrast against the dark wood is making the graceful, beautiful lines stand out. It looks like a snow globe. And within a few weeks - there will be a riot of color popping out. Pinks, reds, white, yellow, and purple in all different tones.
I love to look at peoples' eyes. The color. Curt has eyes that are a Caribbean sea blue green - just beautiful. They say Elizabeth Taylor's were purple. Our skin tones, the beauty of brown, black, tan, red, white.
I love how He created color. How He created the different senses. I love how He created things for our senses to enjoy. The smell of perfume, freshly washed baby, clothes from the line, the skin of your child. Taste of chocolate first thing in the morning exploding in your mouth, home cooking, desserts. To feel the touch of a loved one, a hug from someone you miss, the squeeze of a hand. To see and soak in the beauty of those you love, the colors, the bright eyes when you are seen. To hear, "I love you", the call of, "mommy", the sound of a child's laughter.
He could have made everything without colors, scents, feel or sound. He didn't. God told Moses exactly what materials and colors to use. Only the best and finest. His Word, His nature, His creations, His people, all tell me He loves color. It amazes me how He utilizes all the same "equipment" and yet no one looks exactly alike out of all His creations.
Our Abba is a God of color, joy, love, laughter - celebration.
My Abba - He gives me treasures for my senses.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
02/12/12 - Where is my heart?
Exodus 35:29 "Every man and woman in Israel whose heart moved them freely to bring something for the work that God through Moses had commanded them to make, brought it, a voluntary offering for God."
Voluntary offering. He doesn't want it - our "jewelry" - if it isn't because our heart wants to give it. Otherwise, we would be like slaves, robots, without free choice.
This is yet another thing that wows me about God. He gave us His most precious "jewel" - our Christ. Knowing that not everyone would accept Him - because He has given us free choice.
No one loves like He does, to the depth - the unconditional - the constant - from the east to the west. No one.
And still, I hold back on giving up my "jewelry" to Him. I cling to them and wear them with - the self - pride - false sense of security - selfishness - self righteousness. All about self. And why do I do that? When His way is what is right to wear my "jewelry" with. To belong to Him - to His family - to be loved like that. In all purity - all that is good.
Reading that so many came together for building His Sanctuary- the many, many gifts and talents - their "jewelry". This Spiritual Battle we are in for the lost souls can not be fought alone. We have to get on board - we have to give Him our "jewels" as a voluntary offering. For only then are we giving Him our heart. Where our treasure is - there is our heart. Where our heart is - there is our passion.
"So Moses sent out orders through the camp: "Men! Women! No more offerings" (Exodus 36:6)
I pray that I too will give, give, give so much until the day I hear His victory call when He returns and cries out "no more offerings".
How exciting to be using my "jewels" for building more of His Sanctuaries!
Voluntary offering. He doesn't want it - our "jewelry" - if it isn't because our heart wants to give it. Otherwise, we would be like slaves, robots, without free choice.
This is yet another thing that wows me about God. He gave us His most precious "jewel" - our Christ. Knowing that not everyone would accept Him - because He has given us free choice.
No one loves like He does, to the depth - the unconditional - the constant - from the east to the west. No one.
And still, I hold back on giving up my "jewelry" to Him. I cling to them and wear them with - the self - pride - false sense of security - selfishness - self righteousness. All about self. And why do I do that? When His way is what is right to wear my "jewelry" with. To belong to Him - to His family - to be loved like that. In all purity - all that is good.
Reading that so many came together for building His Sanctuary- the many, many gifts and talents - their "jewelry". This Spiritual Battle we are in for the lost souls can not be fought alone. We have to get on board - we have to give Him our "jewels" as a voluntary offering. For only then are we giving Him our heart. Where our treasure is - there is our heart. Where our heart is - there is our passion.
"So Moses sent out orders through the camp: "Men! Women! No more offerings" (Exodus 36:6)
I pray that I too will give, give, give so much until the day I hear His victory call when He returns and cries out "no more offerings".
How exciting to be using my "jewels" for building more of His Sanctuaries!
Saturday, February 11, 2012
02/11/12- all my jewelry
Exodus 32:24 "Who has gold?' And they took off their jewelry and gave it to me. I threw it in the fire and out came this calf."
Aaron's excuse always sounded so lame to me. I'm sure Moses was thinking, "yea, right". So often, my excuses are even lamer.
Particularly when it comes to being a good steward with the "jewelry" He has given me. It comes in all forms. Time, money, gifts, talents - how often I "waste" what is given to me - use it for self and not Him. He has instructed me to tithe regularly. My first fruits, my best. How often do I take the best and leave the leftovers for Him?
I have found when giving Him the "first fruits" my priorities, the way I live my life changes. I desire to give Him more. When Aaron said, "I threw it into the fire", I wonder how often do I do the same. Intentionally utilizing my "jewelry" for me and then be surprised when " a calf (sin) comes out". God knows my heart. He knows how I want to use my "jewelry".
Moses was so angry. Do I get that angry about sin? When I see the "calf" being worshiped and not God? When it is me that puts self before Him? Tolerance - another tool of satan. How numb it makes us to His ways being broken. Tolerance - another way of playing with fire and "out came a calf".
I pray I will be a better steward of His "jewelry". To stand firm as Joshua did beside Moses - even when so many do not. I pray that my face glows ("the skin of his face glowed because he had been speaking with God" Ex 34:29) because I am speaking with God, living for Him.
Being a good steward for Him.
With all my "jewelry"
Aaron's excuse always sounded so lame to me. I'm sure Moses was thinking, "yea, right". So often, my excuses are even lamer.
Particularly when it comes to being a good steward with the "jewelry" He has given me. It comes in all forms. Time, money, gifts, talents - how often I "waste" what is given to me - use it for self and not Him. He has instructed me to tithe regularly. My first fruits, my best. How often do I take the best and leave the leftovers for Him?
I have found when giving Him the "first fruits" my priorities, the way I live my life changes. I desire to give Him more. When Aaron said, "I threw it into the fire", I wonder how often do I do the same. Intentionally utilizing my "jewelry" for me and then be surprised when " a calf (sin) comes out". God knows my heart. He knows how I want to use my "jewelry".
Moses was so angry. Do I get that angry about sin? When I see the "calf" being worshiped and not God? When it is me that puts self before Him? Tolerance - another tool of satan. How numb it makes us to His ways being broken. Tolerance - another way of playing with fire and "out came a calf".
I pray I will be a better steward of His "jewelry". To stand firm as Joshua did beside Moses - even when so many do not. I pray that my face glows ("the skin of his face glowed because he had been speaking with God" Ex 34:29) because I am speaking with God, living for Him.
Being a good steward for Him.
With all my "jewelry"
Friday, February 10, 2012
02/10/12 - His one time sacrifice
Exodus 29:15 "Slaughter the ram and take its blood and throw it against the Altar, all around."
All the blood - the oil - the beauty of the Sanctuary - all the gold - their clothes - covered with blood and oil.
I keep thinking back to the Garden of Eden. The beauty, perfection and then sin came into the picture.
It saddens me that Christ blood had to be "thrown" against sin so I may be with Him. It saddens me that our free choice causes His beauty to be covered with sin. For that is what we are - created in His image.
Beauty.
Again, how very thankful I am for my Savior - who in His death and resurrection - "threw His blood against the alter" for me. That in His eyes - through Christ - I am seen as His Beauty.
Because He loves me.
That His one time sacrifice is enough.
No greater love.
All the blood - the oil - the beauty of the Sanctuary - all the gold - their clothes - covered with blood and oil.
I keep thinking back to the Garden of Eden. The beauty, perfection and then sin came into the picture.
It saddens me that Christ blood had to be "thrown" against sin so I may be with Him. It saddens me that our free choice causes His beauty to be covered with sin. For that is what we are - created in His image.
Beauty.
Again, how very thankful I am for my Savior - who in His death and resurrection - "threw His blood against the alter" for me. That in His eyes - through Christ - I am seen as His Beauty.
Because He loves me.
That His one time sacrifice is enough.
No greater love.
Thursday, February 09, 2012
02/09/12 - Acacia Wood
Exodus 25
Acacia Wood is commanded to be used in the building of so many things. It is prized for its extreme durability and the grains' "flame-like" appearance. When different light is shone on it - it can change color. It can be cleaned with water - so dense it won't permeate it. Untreated it can last up to 40 years. Not prone to scraping, holds up to hard use, doesn't need coddled. Resistant to fungus - which causes rot. Extract is used to help endurance of other cheaper woods.
Most of the Acacia wood was then to be covered with a veneer of gold. Pure gold is very soft. It is one of the few pure metals that is yellow. Chemically unaffected by air, moisture, corrosion. Most malleable and ductile of all metals. One single gram can be beaten to a sheet of 1 sq. meter. An ounce can be beaten into 3000 square feet. Gold leaf can be beaten so thin it is translucent, which appears greenish blue because it strongly reflects yellow and red. It is used as an infrared shield. Readily creates alloys with many other metals,, which then modify it to be utilized in different ways. Gold has been a valuable and highly sought-after precious metal for coinage, jewelry, and other arts since long before the beginning of recorded history. Gold standards have been the most common basis for monetary policies throughout human history.
Acacia wood. He knew this was the best wood to withstand the travel, the weather conditions, take down/put up, the journey. Just like with us.
Our foundation must be made of "Acacia wood".
Only He can make us extremely durable through His Word, the Holy Spirit within us, Sabbath time with Him. Only by losing "self" and becoming one with Him do I become "the most durable" for my life's journey. It has to be His "Acacia Wood". All the qualities it holds, can be mine too. The durability, the beauty, originality - so many things that are found only in this type of wood. Such beauty in His inner works.
And then to cover it in gold. It amazes me that they were able to construct all of this in the middle of the desert, in a tent city. To be able to obtain materials needed - no local lumberyard! The gold - another miracle. From the Egyptians. As early as 2600 BC Egyptian hieroglyphs claimed gold was "more plentiful as dirt". It is first mentioned in Gen 2:11. He provided all the resources needed to build this sanctuary - in the desert - in a tent city.
And it brings to mind how He provided the resources which transformed my "tent" into Acacia Wood - His sanctuary. How He has covered my "Acacia Wood" in His gold. Valuable and highly sought after by Him. Precious. His Gold standards I strive to live by.
How my King of Kings has turned me into His Golden princess.
It takes my breath away knowing that when He looks at me - He only sees beauty. He is so proud of me. He is so in love with me. He desires to be with me. All the things I see, think when I look at our sons - He feels so many times over for me.
I so love that I am the daughter of The King.
Acacia Wood is commanded to be used in the building of so many things. It is prized for its extreme durability and the grains' "flame-like" appearance. When different light is shone on it - it can change color. It can be cleaned with water - so dense it won't permeate it. Untreated it can last up to 40 years. Not prone to scraping, holds up to hard use, doesn't need coddled. Resistant to fungus - which causes rot. Extract is used to help endurance of other cheaper woods.
Most of the Acacia wood was then to be covered with a veneer of gold. Pure gold is very soft. It is one of the few pure metals that is yellow. Chemically unaffected by air, moisture, corrosion. Most malleable and ductile of all metals. One single gram can be beaten to a sheet of 1 sq. meter. An ounce can be beaten into 3000 square feet. Gold leaf can be beaten so thin it is translucent, which appears greenish blue because it strongly reflects yellow and red. It is used as an infrared shield. Readily creates alloys with many other metals,, which then modify it to be utilized in different ways. Gold has been a valuable and highly sought-after precious metal for coinage, jewelry, and other arts since long before the beginning of recorded history. Gold standards have been the most common basis for monetary policies throughout human history.
Acacia wood. He knew this was the best wood to withstand the travel, the weather conditions, take down/put up, the journey. Just like with us.
Our foundation must be made of "Acacia wood".
Only He can make us extremely durable through His Word, the Holy Spirit within us, Sabbath time with Him. Only by losing "self" and becoming one with Him do I become "the most durable" for my life's journey. It has to be His "Acacia Wood". All the qualities it holds, can be mine too. The durability, the beauty, originality - so many things that are found only in this type of wood. Such beauty in His inner works.
And then to cover it in gold. It amazes me that they were able to construct all of this in the middle of the desert, in a tent city. To be able to obtain materials needed - no local lumberyard! The gold - another miracle. From the Egyptians. As early as 2600 BC Egyptian hieroglyphs claimed gold was "more plentiful as dirt". It is first mentioned in Gen 2:11. He provided all the resources needed to build this sanctuary - in the desert - in a tent city.
And it brings to mind how He provided the resources which transformed my "tent" into Acacia Wood - His sanctuary. How He has covered my "Acacia Wood" in His gold. Valuable and highly sought after by Him. Precious. His Gold standards I strive to live by.
How my King of Kings has turned me into His Golden princess.
It takes my breath away knowing that when He looks at me - He only sees beauty. He is so proud of me. He is so in love with me. He desires to be with me. All the things I see, think when I look at our sons - He feels so many times over for me.
I so love that I am the daughter of The King.
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
02/08/12 - Sabbath
Exodus 23:12 "Work for six days and rest the seventh so your ox and donkey may rest and your servant and migrant workers may have time to get their needed rest."
Nichalas, a few years ago, taught me of the importance of taking Sabbath. He was so right. Our society has come so far away from taking a Sabbath - to rest daily IN Him - IN His Word - a time to worship, the adoration and praise of God. Too busy, too selfish, too "self". Everything worldly points to hurry up, just do it, fill every minute up with work, school, activities, etc. Just go, go, go. And satan loves that.
And the more "busy" we become, the less Sabbathing we do. Too fast, too soon is the speed of life. Before you know it you're looking back and realizing you are past middle age. Less time ahead of you than behind. How much of that living was spent Sabbathing?
We are told to pray without ceasing. Do I? For the past 12 years I have tried to Sabbath each morning In Him. The heart transformation I have experienced through being in His Word every day is mind blowing. It has helped me so much in not being anxious, to let go of "my" schedule and follow Him. Too see that all will work out.
Whenever I see someone who is on constant go, looking anxious, tired, frazzled, I just want to shout, "Stop - Sabbath In Him".
I know it doesn't make sense, so much about Him doesn't. That is where the faith, trust, and focus come in as your tools. Amazing how when I spend a block of time resting in Sabbath with Him every day, it begins. The peace and joy. The fruits of the Spirit take hold and rule my life. Priorities change. Things are accomplished. I am blessed with a structured life even in the middle of this chaotic world. And I find the world looks on in wonder because it really should not work that way. Taking time to Sabbath In Him should put me behind and it only puts me ahead.
You have to Sabbath.
Nichalas, a few years ago, taught me of the importance of taking Sabbath. He was so right. Our society has come so far away from taking a Sabbath - to rest daily IN Him - IN His Word - a time to worship, the adoration and praise of God. Too busy, too selfish, too "self". Everything worldly points to hurry up, just do it, fill every minute up with work, school, activities, etc. Just go, go, go. And satan loves that.
And the more "busy" we become, the less Sabbathing we do. Too fast, too soon is the speed of life. Before you know it you're looking back and realizing you are past middle age. Less time ahead of you than behind. How much of that living was spent Sabbathing?
We are told to pray without ceasing. Do I? For the past 12 years I have tried to Sabbath each morning In Him. The heart transformation I have experienced through being in His Word every day is mind blowing. It has helped me so much in not being anxious, to let go of "my" schedule and follow Him. Too see that all will work out.
Whenever I see someone who is on constant go, looking anxious, tired, frazzled, I just want to shout, "Stop - Sabbath In Him".
I know it doesn't make sense, so much about Him doesn't. That is where the faith, trust, and focus come in as your tools. Amazing how when I spend a block of time resting in Sabbath with Him every day, it begins. The peace and joy. The fruits of the Spirit take hold and rule my life. Priorities change. Things are accomplished. I am blessed with a structured life even in the middle of this chaotic world. And I find the world looks on in wonder because it really should not work that way. Taking time to Sabbath In Him should put me behind and it only puts me ahead.
You have to Sabbath.
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
02/07/12 - His rules
Exodus 20-22:15
Wow! That is a lot of rules. And these don't even contain the ones man added to them. And how many of them I have/will break.
Right off the bat - Exodus 20:3 "No other gods, only me."
Many, many times I have broken it. Each and every moment is a constant fight not to break this one. Through my study of His Word, I have come to the conclusion there are only two gods in this life - Him - the great "I AM" or me - self.
My serving of self leads me to the worship of all other things that I put before Him. All the things that will end up separating me from Him when I put self first. I become consumed with pleasing me - not Him. I am my main focus. It is totally about me. And in doing that - life really will fall apart. I am not God - I can not hold it all together. I will/do fail. I am not God.
I am so thankful though that He knows my heart better then even I do. That He knows it yearns to please Him. That He knows I am a woman after His own heart. How thankful I am that the Holy Spirit interceeds for me - speaks for me - conveys for me when "self" gets in the way.
And I know that when He is my only God - life is right. Even when I have to endure the "fall out" of sin - life is right. It may not make sense at times, but He is in control. He is the one who holds it all together. All of it, not just my little world. He will not fail - He is I AM.
I will never stop being thankful that I live on this side of Christ. I am so thankful that He is the ultimate sacrifice. No other is needed. I am so thankful to be living under His grace and mercy. No animal sacrifice could do that. I am so thankful for the forgiveness that He has given me for past sins and those I will commit. For I will - I am human. Only He was perfect, without sin. Only He could be my ultimate sacrifice.
As I read the punishment for breaking these rules, I came away thinking that there would be so much less crime if we had of stuck to His punishments! And again, I am so thankful that I live on this side of Christ. There had to be a great amount of fear as they lived each day that they would break a rule. I am so blessed that because of Christ I am able to crawl up into my Abba's lap and be that close to Him. Even when I break rules! To live in the security that I am covered. It doesn't give me the feelings of wanting to break the rules because I am free. It motivates me to try and please Him because of His great love.
The rules were set because He knew they were needed. He knew how much we as humans would/do fail. Without rules life would have no order. So even though I can not keep every rule, I do need to learn to live my life accordingly. To have structure in my life. To be more Christlike in my actions.
Time after time it has been proven.
His plans. His way. His rules. They really do work.
Wow! That is a lot of rules. And these don't even contain the ones man added to them. And how many of them I have/will break.
Right off the bat - Exodus 20:3 "No other gods, only me."
Many, many times I have broken it. Each and every moment is a constant fight not to break this one. Through my study of His Word, I have come to the conclusion there are only two gods in this life - Him - the great "I AM" or me - self.
My serving of self leads me to the worship of all other things that I put before Him. All the things that will end up separating me from Him when I put self first. I become consumed with pleasing me - not Him. I am my main focus. It is totally about me. And in doing that - life really will fall apart. I am not God - I can not hold it all together. I will/do fail. I am not God.
I am so thankful though that He knows my heart better then even I do. That He knows it yearns to please Him. That He knows I am a woman after His own heart. How thankful I am that the Holy Spirit interceeds for me - speaks for me - conveys for me when "self" gets in the way.
And I know that when He is my only God - life is right. Even when I have to endure the "fall out" of sin - life is right. It may not make sense at times, but He is in control. He is the one who holds it all together. All of it, not just my little world. He will not fail - He is I AM.
I will never stop being thankful that I live on this side of Christ. I am so thankful that He is the ultimate sacrifice. No other is needed. I am so thankful to be living under His grace and mercy. No animal sacrifice could do that. I am so thankful for the forgiveness that He has given me for past sins and those I will commit. For I will - I am human. Only He was perfect, without sin. Only He could be my ultimate sacrifice.
As I read the punishment for breaking these rules, I came away thinking that there would be so much less crime if we had of stuck to His punishments! And again, I am so thankful that I live on this side of Christ. There had to be a great amount of fear as they lived each day that they would break a rule. I am so blessed that because of Christ I am able to crawl up into my Abba's lap and be that close to Him. Even when I break rules! To live in the security that I am covered. It doesn't give me the feelings of wanting to break the rules because I am free. It motivates me to try and please Him because of His great love.
The rules were set because He knew they were needed. He knew how much we as humans would/do fail. Without rules life would have no order. So even though I can not keep every rule, I do need to learn to live my life accordingly. To have structure in my life. To be more Christlike in my actions.
Time after time it has been proven.
His plans. His way. His rules. They really do work.
Monday, February 06, 2012
02/06/12 - the winning side
Exodus 17:10-13 "Joshua did what Moses ordered in order to fight Amalek. And Moses, Aaron, and Hur went to the top of the hill. It turned out that whenever Moses raised his hands, Israel was winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, Amalek was winning. But Moses' hands got tired. So they got a stone and set it under him. He sat on it and Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on each side. So his hands remained steady until the sun went down. Joshua defeated Amalek and its army in battle."
We are in a spiritual battle just as real as the physical one the Israelites were fighting. And we can not do it alone. We must surround ourselves with His army - His family. For we will tire out as Moses did. We will need someone to hold us up. The battle doesn't stop when we grow weary. This is when satan attacks the hardest.
God is our "stone". Christ is our "stone". The Holy Spirit is our "stone". His Word is our "stone". The "stone" we base ourselves on. His family is who holds us up - cares for us - fights for/with us.
So important to be in His Word, His church family, committed - a part of - not just a "pew sitter". Your Bible has to be carried in your heart - it isn't a "coffee table" book.
Our God gave us His only Son so we may be on the winning side of this spiritual battle. It's our choice how we fight - who we fight with. Another example of how our hands are used - for the army of satan or for Him -
The side that has already won.
We are in a spiritual battle just as real as the physical one the Israelites were fighting. And we can not do it alone. We must surround ourselves with His army - His family. For we will tire out as Moses did. We will need someone to hold us up. The battle doesn't stop when we grow weary. This is when satan attacks the hardest.
God is our "stone". Christ is our "stone". The Holy Spirit is our "stone". His Word is our "stone". The "stone" we base ourselves on. His family is who holds us up - cares for us - fights for/with us.
So important to be in His Word, His church family, committed - a part of - not just a "pew sitter". Your Bible has to be carried in your heart - it isn't a "coffee table" book.
Our God gave us His only Son so we may be on the winning side of this spiritual battle. It's our choice how we fight - who we fight with. Another example of how our hands are used - for the army of satan or for Him -
The side that has already won.
Sunday, February 05, 2012
02/05/12 - When I stumble
Exodus 14: 3-4 "Pharaoh will think, 'The Israelites are lost; they're confused. The wilderness has closed in on them.' Then I'll make Pharaoh's heart stubborn again and he'll chase after them. And I'll use Pharaoh and his army to put my Glory on display. Then the Egyptians will realize that I am God."
There are many times when life doesn't make sense. When following God's lead goes against the grain. And during those times, I am sure some persons will look at me and think I am lost. And even I will look at where He is taking me and think the same. It is when I take my focus off of Him - my Shepherd - who is leading me. It is when I look down at my feet, back behind me to where I have come from, the landscape surrounding me - looking everywhere except to Him.
And then I stumble.
It is at those moments the world and satan are waiting for to close in for the kill. How thankful I am that you catch me, don't let me fall. How thankful I am that you take my hand and I look full into your face, as I continue onward with my Shepherd.
My Christ. My Savior. My bestest friend.
"They were totally afraid. They cried out in terror to God." (Exodus 14:10)
The Israelites lost focus again - off of their Shepherd.
"The Israelites walked through the sea on dry ground with the waters a wall to the right and to the left. The Egyptians came after them in full pursuit, every horse and chariot and driver of Pharaoh racing into the middle of the sea. It was now the morning watch." (Exodus 14:22-24)
Ever since I turned to you, grew in you - satan has been in full pursuit. You always provide a way of escape. I am totally surrounded by you on dry, firm ground. Just as when I was baptized, surrounded in water and received the gift of the Holy Spirit who lives within me.
Consumes me.
"God looked down from the Pillar of Fire and Cloud on the Egyptian army and threw them into a panic. He clogged the wheels of their chariots; they were stuck in the mud." (Exodus 14:25)
I had never noticed this before. The same dry ground you provided for the Israelites escape became mud. Just as you do when protecting me. You surround me , and clog up their wheels. How awesome it is walking on your dry, firm ground. Holding your hand - following in your steps. I am so thankful for all you have done/do for me as I journey on to my Promised Home with you.
"If I keep my eyes on God, I won’t trip over my own feet."- (Psalm 25:15)
My Shepherd.
There are many times when life doesn't make sense. When following God's lead goes against the grain. And during those times, I am sure some persons will look at me and think I am lost. And even I will look at where He is taking me and think the same. It is when I take my focus off of Him - my Shepherd - who is leading me. It is when I look down at my feet, back behind me to where I have come from, the landscape surrounding me - looking everywhere except to Him.
And then I stumble.
It is at those moments the world and satan are waiting for to close in for the kill. How thankful I am that you catch me, don't let me fall. How thankful I am that you take my hand and I look full into your face, as I continue onward with my Shepherd.
My Christ. My Savior. My bestest friend.
"They were totally afraid. They cried out in terror to God." (Exodus 14:10)
The Israelites lost focus again - off of their Shepherd.
"The Israelites walked through the sea on dry ground with the waters a wall to the right and to the left. The Egyptians came after them in full pursuit, every horse and chariot and driver of Pharaoh racing into the middle of the sea. It was now the morning watch." (Exodus 14:22-24)
Ever since I turned to you, grew in you - satan has been in full pursuit. You always provide a way of escape. I am totally surrounded by you on dry, firm ground. Just as when I was baptized, surrounded in water and received the gift of the Holy Spirit who lives within me.
Consumes me.
"God looked down from the Pillar of Fire and Cloud on the Egyptian army and threw them into a panic. He clogged the wheels of their chariots; they were stuck in the mud." (Exodus 14:25)
I had never noticed this before. The same dry ground you provided for the Israelites escape became mud. Just as you do when protecting me. You surround me , and clog up their wheels. How awesome it is walking on your dry, firm ground. Holding your hand - following in your steps. I am so thankful for all you have done/do for me as I journey on to my Promised Home with you.
"If I keep my eyes on God, I won’t trip over my own feet."- (Psalm 25:15)
My Shepherd.
Saturday, February 04, 2012
02/04/12 - The ripples of my hands
Exodus 10:12 "God said to Moses: "Stretch your hand over Egypt and signal the locusts to cover the land"
At times it actually frightens me how much power God gives us in our choices. With just the "stretching out of my hand". The ripple effect for His glory or self? What I do and say, touches so many lives. How I am as a wife, mother, daughter, aunt, cousin, friend, etc. all those roles touch someone or someones.
Throughout scripture God used the hands as a tool - Moses and the locust - Christ breaking the bread - the writing of the Bible - just to name a few of the very many.
Moses was told to "stretch out his hand over Egypt and signal the locust". He was going up against a Pharaoh who had went back on his word time and time again. Moses - did he ever feel, "what is the use - did he ever feel defeated? a fool? Or did he stand firm in God.
When I am up against the "Pharaoh's" of this world, when sin seems so overwhelming, I thank you for the hope I see - the light in the darkness. To stand firm in you - to wave my hand and know the locust - your army - is waiting for the signal to overtake and consume every bit of sin.
Again, I am reminded this is such a temporary home. That when I picture Christ on the cross, His hands spread out - He is stretching them over the land for me - for all - for our souls. And one day - when He returns - I will be lifted up to Him - His hands will envelope me.
But until that day, I must reach out my hands to share Him. To devour the lost who are in this world. To draw them to Him. I must be His disciple.
The power He gives me in my hands. I pray I will use it for His glory at every turn. That my heart will not be stubborn as Pharaoh. That I may be a woman after God's heart.
That "the ripples of my hands" will touch lives for Him - until He comes again.
At times it actually frightens me how much power God gives us in our choices. With just the "stretching out of my hand". The ripple effect for His glory or self? What I do and say, touches so many lives. How I am as a wife, mother, daughter, aunt, cousin, friend, etc. all those roles touch someone or someones.
Throughout scripture God used the hands as a tool - Moses and the locust - Christ breaking the bread - the writing of the Bible - just to name a few of the very many.
Moses was told to "stretch out his hand over Egypt and signal the locust". He was going up against a Pharaoh who had went back on his word time and time again. Moses - did he ever feel, "what is the use - did he ever feel defeated? a fool? Or did he stand firm in God.
When I am up against the "Pharaoh's" of this world, when sin seems so overwhelming, I thank you for the hope I see - the light in the darkness. To stand firm in you - to wave my hand and know the locust - your army - is waiting for the signal to overtake and consume every bit of sin.
Again, I am reminded this is such a temporary home. That when I picture Christ on the cross, His hands spread out - He is stretching them over the land for me - for all - for our souls. And one day - when He returns - I will be lifted up to Him - His hands will envelope me.
But until that day, I must reach out my hands to share Him. To devour the lost who are in this world. To draw them to Him. I must be His disciple.
The power He gives me in my hands. I pray I will use it for His glory at every turn. That my heart will not be stubborn as Pharaoh. That I may be a woman after God's heart.
That "the ripples of my hands" will touch lives for Him - until He comes again.
Friday, February 03, 2012
02/03/12 - The copy-cat
Exodus 9: 34-35 "But when Pharaoh saw that the rain and hail and thunder had stopped, he kept right on sinning, stubborn as ever, both he and his servants. Pharaoh's heart turned rock-hard. He refused to release the Israelites, as God had ordered through Moses."
Throughout all of this reading (Exodus 7:14-9:35), I am confused as to how were the magicians making the Nile into blood if it already was? Bring frogs when there were already frogs? It would have been more impressive if they had of changed things back.
And that is how satan works. he is a copy-cat - the Master of Lies - trying to entice us to his side by copycatting God, His beauty, His way. And underneath satans' false beauty lies his ugliness - sin. he wants us to believe he is as powerful, that he is god. Only when we are in God's Word, in an intimate relationship with God, are we able to see the difference.
How many times when life is going "well" we think we don't need God? When the "storms of life" cease for the moment? I pray my heart will not be hardened. That the hearts that are, you will use me to disciple to. To teach them that you are a God for all times of life. That only in you are the "storms" easier - that the "good weather times" are made great.
That you are an "all weather" God.
Throughout all of this reading (Exodus 7:14-9:35), I am confused as to how were the magicians making the Nile into blood if it already was? Bring frogs when there were already frogs? It would have been more impressive if they had of changed things back.
And that is how satan works. he is a copy-cat - the Master of Lies - trying to entice us to his side by copycatting God, His beauty, His way. And underneath satans' false beauty lies his ugliness - sin. he wants us to believe he is as powerful, that he is god. Only when we are in God's Word, in an intimate relationship with God, are we able to see the difference.
How many times when life is going "well" we think we don't need God? When the "storms of life" cease for the moment? I pray my heart will not be hardened. That the hearts that are, you will use me to disciple to. To teach them that you are a God for all times of life. That only in you are the "storms" easier - that the "good weather times" are made great.
That you are an "all weather" God.
Thursday, February 02, 2012
02/02/12 - harsh slave conditions
Exodus 5:22-23 "Moses went back to God and said, "My Master, why are you treating this people so badly? And why did you ever send me? From the moment I came to Pharaoh to speak in your name, things have only gotten worse for this people. And rescue? Does this look like rescue to you?"
So many times when things don't make sense, I begin to question you - your plans - begin to doubt you want the best for me. I begin to listen to satans' or self lies. That you are not a righteous, fair God who loves me. I know, looking back, those times of being on the bottom, were sometimes the result of my choices. Or they were sometimes the place I needed to be in order to rid me of self and rely on you.
Exodus 6:6-8 "Therefore tell the Israelites: "I am God. I will bring you out from under the cruel hard labor of Egypt. I will rescue you from slavery. I will redeem you, intervening with great acts of judgment. I'll take you as my own people and I'll be God to you. You'll know that I am God, your God who brings you out from under the cruel hard labor of Egypt. I'll bring you into the land that I promised to give Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and give it to you as your own country. I AM God." 9 But when Moses delivered this message to the Israelites, they didn't even hear him—they were that beaten down in spirit by the harsh slave conditions."
How many times do I lose focus and take my eyes off of you. To become so wrapped up in my "harsh slave conditions" that all I focus on is "woe is me". To forget that whatever I am going through, isn't anything compared to what you gave up for me. Or what Christ did for me. So wrapped up in the "harsh slave conditions" that I don't even hear you.
I must remember and believe - You are "I AM". you are in control and you are taking me to my "promised land". This is just a temporary place. Just like my past "harsh slave conditions", at the time I didn't know how I'd ever make it through. And today, some of those times I can't even remember. The ones I do - I am so aware of how you brought me through the fire. How you purified me. How when hitting the bottom - after my pity party - I looked and you were always there with me.
All I have to do is believe - You are God. A true, holy, righteous God - my "Abba Daddy" - who holds me in the palm of His hand.
Even during "harsh slave conditions".
So many times when things don't make sense, I begin to question you - your plans - begin to doubt you want the best for me. I begin to listen to satans' or self lies. That you are not a righteous, fair God who loves me. I know, looking back, those times of being on the bottom, were sometimes the result of my choices. Or they were sometimes the place I needed to be in order to rid me of self and rely on you.
Exodus 6:6-8 "Therefore tell the Israelites: "I am God. I will bring you out from under the cruel hard labor of Egypt. I will rescue you from slavery. I will redeem you, intervening with great acts of judgment. I'll take you as my own people and I'll be God to you. You'll know that I am God, your God who brings you out from under the cruel hard labor of Egypt. I'll bring you into the land that I promised to give Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and give it to you as your own country. I AM God." 9 But when Moses delivered this message to the Israelites, they didn't even hear him—they were that beaten down in spirit by the harsh slave conditions."
How many times do I lose focus and take my eyes off of you. To become so wrapped up in my "harsh slave conditions" that all I focus on is "woe is me". To forget that whatever I am going through, isn't anything compared to what you gave up for me. Or what Christ did for me. So wrapped up in the "harsh slave conditions" that I don't even hear you.
I must remember and believe - You are "I AM". you are in control and you are taking me to my "promised land". This is just a temporary place. Just like my past "harsh slave conditions", at the time I didn't know how I'd ever make it through. And today, some of those times I can't even remember. The ones I do - I am so aware of how you brought me through the fire. How you purified me. How when hitting the bottom - after my pity party - I looked and you were always there with me.
All I have to do is believe - You are God. A true, holy, righteous God - my "Abba Daddy" - who holds me in the palm of His hand.
Even during "harsh slave conditions".
Wednesday, February 01, 2012
02/01/12 - even after miracle after miracle
Exodus 4:1 Moses objected, "They won't trust me. They won't listen to a word I say. They're going to say, 'God? Appear to him? Hardly!'" 2 So God said, "What's that in your hand?" "A staff." 3 "Throw it on the ground." He threw it. It became a snake; Moses jumped back—fast! 4-5 God said to Moses, "Reach out and grab it by the tail." He reached out and grabbed it—and he was holding his staff again. "That's so they will trust that God appeared to you, the God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob." 6 God then said, "Put your hand inside your shirt." He slipped his hand under his shirt, then took it out. His hand had turned leprous, like snow.7 He said, "Put your hand back under your shirt." He did it, then took it back out—as healthy as before. 8-9 "So if they don't trust you and aren't convinced by the first sign, the second sign should do it. But if it doesn't, if even after these two signs they don't trust you and listen to your message, take some water out of the Nile and pour it out on the dry land; the Nile water that you pour out will turn to blood when it hits the ground." 10 Moses raised another objection to God: "Master, please, I don't talk well. I've never been good with words, neither before nor after you spoke to me. I stutter and stammer." 11-12 God said, "And who do you think made the human mouth? And who makes some mute, some deaf, some sighted, some blind? Isn't it I, God? So, get going. I'll be right there with you—with your mouth! I'll be right there to teach you what to say." 13 He said, "Oh, Master, please! Send somebody else."
How often do I, after you give me miracle after miracle, throw out excuses as to why I can't/won't do for you? You gave me the miracle of taking my dead marriage and breathing life into it, of children, your nature. All of my life - how you took my stumbling blocks into hell and changed its' direction to stepping stones to you!
Miracle after miracle. Yet, I still struggle between serving self or serving you. Can not do both.
I think back on my life and see all the moments I did not bring honor to you with my choices. And how living in those choices, I wasted moments to be your disciple. How thankful I am that you have worked your miracles and transformed my life and my heart. How you have filled me with your Word and are helping me to be a disciple for you - even with my short comings.
Thank you for allowing me to see Moses as human - a faltering human at times. For the hope that I too am/will be used for you - also a faltering human.
14 "God said to Moses, "I-AM-WHO-I-AM. Tell the People of Israel, 'I-AM sent me to you.'"This has always been my name, and this is how I always will be known."
My favorite name for you, after "Abba, Daddy", is "I AM". It covers everything. How thankful I am that you are my "I AM".
That you are my miracle worker.
How often do I, after you give me miracle after miracle, throw out excuses as to why I can't/won't do for you? You gave me the miracle of taking my dead marriage and breathing life into it, of children, your nature. All of my life - how you took my stumbling blocks into hell and changed its' direction to stepping stones to you!
Miracle after miracle. Yet, I still struggle between serving self or serving you. Can not do both.
I think back on my life and see all the moments I did not bring honor to you with my choices. And how living in those choices, I wasted moments to be your disciple. How thankful I am that you have worked your miracles and transformed my life and my heart. How you have filled me with your Word and are helping me to be a disciple for you - even with my short comings.
Thank you for allowing me to see Moses as human - a faltering human at times. For the hope that I too am/will be used for you - also a faltering human.
14 "God said to Moses, "I-AM-WHO-I-AM. Tell the People of Israel, 'I-AM sent me to you.'"This has always been my name, and this is how I always will be known."
My favorite name for you, after "Abba, Daddy", is "I AM". It covers everything. How thankful I am that you are my "I AM".
That you are my miracle worker.
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