Proverbs 10 gives us the results of choosing Wisdom, but all the consequences for choosing Folly.
When we refuse God's Word and go the foolish path we will:
Be a source of grief to our parents. v1
Not profit from our "ill-gotten gains" v2
be continually craving.. and never satisfied v3
be negligent in our work v4
be lazy and shameful v5
speak falsely, hiding the wickedness in our hearts v6
have a rotten reputation v7
babble like a fool and fail v8
be perverted and exposed v9
wink at trouble, but be "thrown down" v10
speak falsely ( repeated from v6)
stir up strife and hatred v12
lack understanding and invite punishment v13
run into ruin v14
receive punishment v16
go astray v17
lie and deceive v18
spread slander v18
speak without thinking v19
have a wicked heart "worth little" v20
"die for lack of understanding" v21
do wickedness for fun v23
receive what we are most afraid of v24
be caught up in the whirlwinds of life v25
be irritating to those around us v26
have a shortened life v27
have no hope v28
find ruin in their way v29
never live in the land of blessing v30
lose the tongue due to its perversion v31
The psalmist wrote, " The Lord keeps all who love Him; but all the wicked He will destroy." ( Psalm 145:20) Solomon reinforces this truth with these proverbs. We don't always see the results in this life, but we see enough of it to know that it is true! The saddest verse to me is verse 20b "The heart of the wicked is worth little". I think of some, whom I love and pray for, who refuse the way of the Lord... and it breaks my heart to see them going the way of "ruin". They will never see the Lord's blessing or know hope that is full of gladness and soundness. And so I pray:
Father in heaven, gracious and merciful, full of compassion, slow to anger, and great in lovingkindness, I ask that You would open the eyes of the blind and grant them understanding of Your Word. You know the desires of my heart, for the salvation of all of my loved ones. I bring them before You once again and ask that You will grant them repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ that they might find forgiveness and receive life. O Father, hear this cry, in the Name of Jesus I pray, amen.
Wednesday, March 29, 2017
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Proverbs 10 begins the "proverbs of Solomon". The rest of this book contains statements contrasting the way of wisdom with the way of folly. These words address every aspect of life and the consequences for choosing either one path or the other. The way of wisdom is clear:
When we walk in God's wisdom we will:
make our fathers glad - v1
be delivered from death - v2
be kept from hunger - v3
work hard and profit from it - v4
act wisely in whatever our work is-v5
receive blessings - v6
be remembered well - v7
receive instruction well - v8
walk in integrity and security - v9
speak words of life - v11
Love v12
be discerning and speak wisdom - v13
store up knowledge -v14
receive life-v16
stay on the path of life - v17
restrain our lips - v19
speak only what is of value - v20
speak only what is helpful -v21
receive the blessing and the joy of the Lord - v22
receive the desires of our hearts - v24
have an "everlasting foundation" - v25
have "prolonged life" -v27
have the "hope of... gladness" - v28
find that His way is a "stronghold" -v29
not be shaken - v30
speak wisdom - v31
and " bring forth what is acceptable" - v32
If I were to try to sum up these benefits of walking in Wisdom's ways, I would say.. "Grace! Grace! Glorious Grace!" Just look at what God gives us when we choose this path - Life! Blessings! Security! Purpose! Love! All that we need and all that we really want, when we come right down to it. We want this for ourselves and our families.. and so we pray:
Father in heaven, Giver of life and hope and love, we bless Your Name and give You thanks and praise! You are the God of light and joy and all that is right and wise. Yes, we confess, we want Wisdom and we search for her as for gold or silver, for her value is greater than anything on this earth. May we seek earnestly to live this life of integrity and completeness in Christ our Lord. Fill us Holy Spirit, that we may clearly hear the voice of our God, the voice of wisdom , who says, "This is the way, walk in it!" For we surrender all to Your leading, in Christ Jesus our king, amen.
I cannot end this without going back and noting how many of these words deal with our lips and tongues - to speak life, wisdom, what is of value, what feeds the hungry, what is acceptable - we must have His Wisdom and knowledge. We receive it from Him so that we can extend it to others. And when we fail, which we all do, let us remember verse 12b " But Love covers all transgressions."
Praise the Lord!!!
When we walk in God's wisdom we will:
make our fathers glad - v1
be delivered from death - v2
be kept from hunger - v3
work hard and profit from it - v4
act wisely in whatever our work is-v5
receive blessings - v6
be remembered well - v7
receive instruction well - v8
walk in integrity and security - v9
speak words of life - v11
Love v12
be discerning and speak wisdom - v13
store up knowledge -v14
receive life-v16
stay on the path of life - v17
restrain our lips - v19
speak only what is of value - v20
speak only what is helpful -v21
receive the blessing and the joy of the Lord - v22
receive the desires of our hearts - v24
have an "everlasting foundation" - v25
have "prolonged life" -v27
have the "hope of... gladness" - v28
find that His way is a "stronghold" -v29
not be shaken - v30
speak wisdom - v31
and " bring forth what is acceptable" - v32
If I were to try to sum up these benefits of walking in Wisdom's ways, I would say.. "Grace! Grace! Glorious Grace!" Just look at what God gives us when we choose this path - Life! Blessings! Security! Purpose! Love! All that we need and all that we really want, when we come right down to it. We want this for ourselves and our families.. and so we pray:
Father in heaven, Giver of life and hope and love, we bless Your Name and give You thanks and praise! You are the God of light and joy and all that is right and wise. Yes, we confess, we want Wisdom and we search for her as for gold or silver, for her value is greater than anything on this earth. May we seek earnestly to live this life of integrity and completeness in Christ our Lord. Fill us Holy Spirit, that we may clearly hear the voice of our God, the voice of wisdom , who says, "This is the way, walk in it!" For we surrender all to Your leading, in Christ Jesus our king, amen.
I cannot end this without going back and noting how many of these words deal with our lips and tongues - to speak life, wisdom, what is of value, what feeds the hungry, what is acceptable - we must have His Wisdom and knowledge. We receive it from Him so that we can extend it to others. And when we fail, which we all do, let us remember verse 12b " But Love covers all transgressions."
Praise the Lord!!!
Monday, March 27, 2017
Proverbs 9 Here, are two houses with two women. The first is Wisdom ( v1-13) and the second is Folly ( v13-18)
Wisdom has built her house well. She has prepared food, set her table, and sent out her maidens to call on "whoever is naive".. to come and to "Forsake your folly and live, and proceed in the way of understanding." She advises us to give instruction to those who will take it, and, to be wise for our own selves.
Folly, we are told, is "boisterous, she is naive, and knows nothing." She calls out the same message, "Whoever is naive, let him turn in here.." But, what she offers is lies and deception. " Stolen water is sweet; and bread eaten in secret is pleasant". It is the same lie that the serpent offered Eve in the garden. And, it leads to the same result - death.
Once again we are reminded, " The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."
Two houses, two women, two offers -- Jesus spoke of two gates, two roads, and two foundations. Life is found in the house of wisdom, through the narrow gate, and on the narrow road. It is found when we build our lives on the firm foundation of Jesus' Words. It is found when we fear the Lord, when we KNOW Him. There are some, Jesus says, that say "Lord, Lord, didn't we..." do great things for You? But, Jesus says, " I never knew you." They were deceived. They thought that they were walking in Wisdom but they were really in Folly's house. Trying to win their way to heaven by good works, yet building their lives on the wrong foundation. To enter into the kingdom of heaven, Jesus tells us we must, do " the will of My Father who is in heaven."
The fear of the Lord, awe and reverence... a real and holy fear of the One Who sits on the throne, where 4 living creatures serve Him, where 24 elders bow before Him, where myriad of angels sing to Him, " Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and blessing." We need to know Him, the Holy One, to understand. We must fear Him to gain true wisdom, that we might do His will and find Life. And so I pray:
Father in heaven, "All glorious above; Oh, gratefully [we] sing of [Your] power and [Your] love; Our shield and Defender, the Ancient of days, Pavilioned in splendor and girded with praise." Grant to Your servants wisdom and understanding. That we might know You and fear You with humbled hearts and outstretched hands. We fail to grasp Your greatness and power. We fail to believe Your justice and righteous anger at our sins. You see the depths of our hearts and except for grace.. we would be cast out. But, oh how we praise You and give You thanks, for You have redeemed us by the blood of the Lamb! You have shown us mercy! You have cast our sins "as far as the east is from the west". For, "just as a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him." ( Psalm 103:13) "Bless the Lord O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name."
Amen.
Wisdom has built her house well. She has prepared food, set her table, and sent out her maidens to call on "whoever is naive".. to come and to "Forsake your folly and live, and proceed in the way of understanding." She advises us to give instruction to those who will take it, and, to be wise for our own selves.
Folly, we are told, is "boisterous, she is naive, and knows nothing." She calls out the same message, "Whoever is naive, let him turn in here.." But, what she offers is lies and deception. " Stolen water is sweet; and bread eaten in secret is pleasant". It is the same lie that the serpent offered Eve in the garden. And, it leads to the same result - death.
Once again we are reminded, " The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."
Two houses, two women, two offers -- Jesus spoke of two gates, two roads, and two foundations. Life is found in the house of wisdom, through the narrow gate, and on the narrow road. It is found when we build our lives on the firm foundation of Jesus' Words. It is found when we fear the Lord, when we KNOW Him. There are some, Jesus says, that say "Lord, Lord, didn't we..." do great things for You? But, Jesus says, " I never knew you." They were deceived. They thought that they were walking in Wisdom but they were really in Folly's house. Trying to win their way to heaven by good works, yet building their lives on the wrong foundation. To enter into the kingdom of heaven, Jesus tells us we must, do " the will of My Father who is in heaven."
The fear of the Lord, awe and reverence... a real and holy fear of the One Who sits on the throne, where 4 living creatures serve Him, where 24 elders bow before Him, where myriad of angels sing to Him, " Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and blessing." We need to know Him, the Holy One, to understand. We must fear Him to gain true wisdom, that we might do His will and find Life. And so I pray:
Father in heaven, "All glorious above; Oh, gratefully [we] sing of [Your] power and [Your] love; Our shield and Defender, the Ancient of days, Pavilioned in splendor and girded with praise." Grant to Your servants wisdom and understanding. That we might know You and fear You with humbled hearts and outstretched hands. We fail to grasp Your greatness and power. We fail to believe Your justice and righteous anger at our sins. You see the depths of our hearts and except for grace.. we would be cast out. But, oh how we praise You and give You thanks, for You have redeemed us by the blood of the Lamb! You have shown us mercy! You have cast our sins "as far as the east is from the west". For, "just as a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him." ( Psalm 103:13) "Bless the Lord O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name."
Amen.
Friday, March 24, 2017
Proverbs 8 presents wisdom personified.... a voice calling to us to find this place of life and favor and blessing. She is found everywhere:
on the mountain heights
at the crossroads
by the gates where business is transacted
at the entrance into the city
Where ever we go... high or low, busy or silent.. we can find wisdom if we will listen and discern it.
Wisdom speaks of things:
noble
right
truthful
straightforward
She will never speak wickedness or of things crooked or perverse.
Her teaching is:
better than silver or gold
more desirable than anything else we could desire
sound and powerful
"The fear of the Lord is to hate evil; pride and arrogance and the evil way, and the perverted mouth, I hate."
Wisdom brings with her:
love
riches
honor
wealth
righteousness
justice
Wisdom belongs to God, "The Lord possessed me at the beginning of His way, before His works of old." She was established before the world was made. Wisdom was a "master workman", a "daily delight" to the Lord.
"Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at my doorposts. For he who finds me finds life, and obtains favor from the Lord." (v35)
And so I pray:
Father in heaven, Wisdom is yours and so is understanding. These we desire and yearn for, from Your Hands. The psalmist wrote, "Thou dost open Thy hand and dost satisfy the desire of every living thing." ( Psalm 145:16) And, "He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He will also hear their cry and will save them." ( v19) When our desire is for Wisdom from above, surely this is a promise that You will completely and utterly fulfill! How wonderful is Your Word and Your Spirit to give such an amazing promise. All that we need, all that we could ever want... is found in You. We desire love and righteousness and justice. We tremble to mention ... riches, honor and wealth.. and yet those are also the gifts that wisdom provides. We ask too little and trust You for such lesser things, when You, the Creator of heaven and earth, He who owns the cattle on a thousand hills and wealth in every mine... have already given us the most costly and priceless gift.. Your own Son. Transform my thinking Lord, to conform with Your thoughts that are so Wonderful and far above my own. I come asking once again in the Name of the Precious One, Jesus Christ, amen.
on the mountain heights
at the crossroads
by the gates where business is transacted
at the entrance into the city
Where ever we go... high or low, busy or silent.. we can find wisdom if we will listen and discern it.
Wisdom speaks of things:
noble
right
truthful
straightforward
She will never speak wickedness or of things crooked or perverse.
Her teaching is:
better than silver or gold
more desirable than anything else we could desire
sound and powerful
"The fear of the Lord is to hate evil; pride and arrogance and the evil way, and the perverted mouth, I hate."
Wisdom brings with her:
love
riches
honor
wealth
righteousness
justice
Wisdom belongs to God, "The Lord possessed me at the beginning of His way, before His works of old." She was established before the world was made. Wisdom was a "master workman", a "daily delight" to the Lord.
"Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at my doorposts. For he who finds me finds life, and obtains favor from the Lord." (v35)
And so I pray:
Father in heaven, Wisdom is yours and so is understanding. These we desire and yearn for, from Your Hands. The psalmist wrote, "Thou dost open Thy hand and dost satisfy the desire of every living thing." ( Psalm 145:16) And, "He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He will also hear their cry and will save them." ( v19) When our desire is for Wisdom from above, surely this is a promise that You will completely and utterly fulfill! How wonderful is Your Word and Your Spirit to give such an amazing promise. All that we need, all that we could ever want... is found in You. We desire love and righteousness and justice. We tremble to mention ... riches, honor and wealth.. and yet those are also the gifts that wisdom provides. We ask too little and trust You for such lesser things, when You, the Creator of heaven and earth, He who owns the cattle on a thousand hills and wealth in every mine... have already given us the most costly and priceless gift.. Your own Son. Transform my thinking Lord, to conform with Your thoughts that are so Wonderful and far above my own. I come asking once again in the Name of the Precious One, Jesus Christ, amen.
Thursday, March 23, 2017
Proverbs 7 Listen the the father's voice, urgently calling his child to his words... and hear our Father's voice, also calling us to His Word:
"My son, keep my words, and treasure my commandments within you. Keep my commandments and live."
To keep the Word as the "apple of your eye" is to have it intimately close, so close that its reflection is seen in the pupil of the eye.
"Bind them on your fingers."
"Write them on the tablet of your heart."
Call them your sister.... your closest friend.
It is the Word of God, the words of wisdom ,that keep each of us from the seductions of the world.
Once again the writer uses the illustration of the adulteress woman, but it could be anything that draws us away from the narrow gate and the narrow way. The tactics of the enemy are not easily resisted, for he uses:
flattery
cunning
boisterous and rebellious.. ( exciting?) adventures
delightful experiences
He is:
brazen
alluring
persuasive
enticing
seductive
The same snake that tempted Eve in the garden, using the same tactics, wants to lure us as victims until we are also "like an ox (who) goes to the slaughter".
It is an "arrow ... through his liver"
A bird.. "to the snare".
It is the path to Sheol.. to the "chambers of death."
WE MUST listen to the Word, we must pay attention, we must bind it to us .. to our hearts, our eyes, our hands. We must teach it and preach it to our children! And so I pray:
Father, our Great and Mighty God, who has written Your Word on our hearts, etching them by Your Spirit and transforming our minds by the Mind of Christ, we praise You! Fill us again and again with the Holy Spirit. Overflow our lives with Your grace and glory. Spirit of power, move in us to do Your will, especially to be faithful to teach our children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren Your Word. Fill their hearts with faith and love, rooted and growing in Christ Jesus the True Vine, for it is in His Name that we ask these things. Amen.
"My son, keep my words, and treasure my commandments within you. Keep my commandments and live."
To keep the Word as the "apple of your eye" is to have it intimately close, so close that its reflection is seen in the pupil of the eye.
"Bind them on your fingers."
"Write them on the tablet of your heart."
Call them your sister.... your closest friend.
It is the Word of God, the words of wisdom ,that keep each of us from the seductions of the world.
Once again the writer uses the illustration of the adulteress woman, but it could be anything that draws us away from the narrow gate and the narrow way. The tactics of the enemy are not easily resisted, for he uses:
flattery
cunning
boisterous and rebellious.. ( exciting?) adventures
delightful experiences
He is:
brazen
alluring
persuasive
enticing
seductive
The same snake that tempted Eve in the garden, using the same tactics, wants to lure us as victims until we are also "like an ox (who) goes to the slaughter".
It is an "arrow ... through his liver"
A bird.. "to the snare".
It is the path to Sheol.. to the "chambers of death."
WE MUST listen to the Word, we must pay attention, we must bind it to us .. to our hearts, our eyes, our hands. We must teach it and preach it to our children! And so I pray:
Father, our Great and Mighty God, who has written Your Word on our hearts, etching them by Your Spirit and transforming our minds by the Mind of Christ, we praise You! Fill us again and again with the Holy Spirit. Overflow our lives with Your grace and glory. Spirit of power, move in us to do Your will, especially to be faithful to teach our children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren Your Word. Fill their hearts with faith and love, rooted and growing in Christ Jesus the True Vine, for it is in His Name that we ask these things. Amen.
Wednesday, March 22, 2017
Proverbs 6 The father continues to speak wisdom into the life of the son.
Verses 1-5 warn about becoming mixed up with either a neighbor or a stranger, by pledging yourself to them in some way that becomes a trap or snare. It is like Paul's warning in 2 Corinthians 6:14 "Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?" Solomon tells him to "Go, humble yourself, and importune your neighbor." and to "Deliver yourself like a gazelle from the hunter's hand." Get out and stay out of these kinds of situations.
Verses 6-11 teach about laziness. Being a sluggard will only bring poverty and helplessness. Instead, as the ant, each should plan ahead and make provision for the future.
Verses 12-15 warn about the worthlessness of the wicked, for their end is calamity and brokenness.
Verses 1-5 warn about becoming mixed up with either a neighbor or a stranger, by pledging yourself to them in some way that becomes a trap or snare. It is like Paul's warning in 2 Corinthians 6:14 "Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?" Solomon tells him to "Go, humble yourself, and importune your neighbor." and to "Deliver yourself like a gazelle from the hunter's hand." Get out and stay out of these kinds of situations.
Verses 6-11 teach about laziness. Being a sluggard will only bring poverty and helplessness. Instead, as the ant, each should plan ahead and make provision for the future.
Verses 12-15 warn about the worthlessness of the wicked, for their end is calamity and brokenness.
Verses 16 - 19 are a little poetic word:
"There are six things which the Lord hates, yes seven that are an abomination to Him:
Haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
and hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked plans,
feet that run rapidly to evil,
a false witness who utters lies,
and one who spreads strife among brothers."
Notice how this lists parts of the body... with the last two going back to the tongue again. Brings to mind Romans 12: 1-2 " I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect."
We either give our bodies over to do what the Lord hates, or we totally offer it to Him as a living sacrifice.. to do His will which is good and acceptable and pleasing to Him.
Again, in the last part of this chapter, Solomon reminds his son to "observe the commandment of your father and do not forsake the teaching of your mother." When we learn to obey God's Word we will find it a wonderful guide, a shelter, a lamp, and a light for life.
Solomon also warns again of the consequences of immorality, calling adultery a worse sin that stealing.
Hold tightly to God's Word and trust Him fully. This takes a deliberate act of humbling ourselves before Him.. trusting Him with all our heart and not relying on our own understanding. So I pray:
Father in heaven, All glorious and majestic and wise, we turn to You and bow before You, presenting ourselves today as Your servants, Your children, who desire to serve You alone. Help us to cling to Your Word and to walk in Your ways. Help us to be faithful to teach our children and grandchildren Your commandments. We surrender our bodies, our eyes, our hands, our feet, and our hearts to You. Take us and fill us and use us.. according to Your will. Thank You for such grace, that You have made us Your own in Christ Jesus our Lord, for it is in His Name that we come. Amen.
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
Proverbs 5 The father ( and our Father) has given the clear instructions for gaining and living by wisdom, by the Word, and the warning about what will happen if those instructions are not carefully and diligently pursued and obeyed. Now, he begins to get more detailed... more specific.. in those instructions.
This chapter focuses on purity, sexual morality, perhaps one of the most difficult areas of human life. We know that immorality is also one of the most destructive sins in human lives. It was the same in Solomon's day as it is in ours. The "adulteress " may entice with "lips like honey" and speech "smoother than oil", but, " in the end she is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword."
In immorality we will find only death, instability, and hell. To fall for the temptation is to give away your strength, your years, your goods, your health, and to find "utter ruin".
Wisdom and instruction on the other hand, say:
"Drink from your own cistern, and fresh water from your own well."
"Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth."
Be satisfied.
Be exhilarated.
Be faithful.
For God is watching. God will hold you accountable. Sin will destroy and enslave. The end of sin is always death.
Death of the soul.
Death of the marriage.
Death of joy and peace.
Our culture has ignored and departed from the teaching of the Word, especially in this area. Immorality is not only embraced, but championed. How vital it is to teach our children the Truth.
All too soon they grow accustomed to the ways of the world. We must be intentional and diligent to speak God's wisdom into their lives, so I pray:
Father in Heaven, You are Light and in You is no darkness at all. Purify our hearts and minds once again. Let Your wisdom which is from above... pure, peaceable , gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering and without hypocrisy... fill us, that we may teach our children and grandchildren these truths. We desire life, love, and righteousness that is found in our precious Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one, for it is the Name of Jesus we ask this. Amen.
This chapter focuses on purity, sexual morality, perhaps one of the most difficult areas of human life. We know that immorality is also one of the most destructive sins in human lives. It was the same in Solomon's day as it is in ours. The "adulteress " may entice with "lips like honey" and speech "smoother than oil", but, " in the end she is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword."
In immorality we will find only death, instability, and hell. To fall for the temptation is to give away your strength, your years, your goods, your health, and to find "utter ruin".
Wisdom and instruction on the other hand, say:
"Drink from your own cistern, and fresh water from your own well."
"Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth."
Be satisfied.
Be exhilarated.
Be faithful.
For God is watching. God will hold you accountable. Sin will destroy and enslave. The end of sin is always death.
Death of the soul.
Death of the marriage.
Death of joy and peace.
Our culture has ignored and departed from the teaching of the Word, especially in this area. Immorality is not only embraced, but championed. How vital it is to teach our children the Truth.
All too soon they grow accustomed to the ways of the world. We must be intentional and diligent to speak God's wisdom into their lives, so I pray:
Father in Heaven, You are Light and in You is no darkness at all. Purify our hearts and minds once again. Let Your wisdom which is from above... pure, peaceable , gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering and without hypocrisy... fill us, that we may teach our children and grandchildren these truths. We desire life, love, and righteousness that is found in our precious Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one, for it is the Name of Jesus we ask this. Amen.
Monday, March 20, 2017
Proverbs 4 Again Solomon repeats, pounding in his point, that we need to listen to the "sound teaching".. the instructions of the father.. of our Father.. we must:
give attention to it
refuse to abandon it
keep it
acquire it
guard it
never turn away or forsake it
prize it
honor it
embrace it
take hold of it
incline our ears to it
watch over our hearts diligently to keep it
fix our gaze on it
watch our paths to keep our feet straight on it
See how important it is to stay in God's Word! And to teach it to our children day and night, as Moses taught in Deuteronomy 6:7 "and you shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up." We are to "bind" them, these Words of Life, to our hands and to our heads... to know the Word and to do the Word. This is more important than a great education or a great skill or talent, a successful career, or any amount of money or possessions.
Again, Solomon tells of the benefits of acquiring, purchasing, wisdom and understanding:
She (wisdom) will guard you and watch over you.
She will exalt you.
She will honor you.
She will crown you with grace and beauty.
You will have many years of life.
Your paths will not be blocked or impeded.
"And if you run, you will not stumble."
She will lead to life.
She will bring light and more light.
The Word brings life and " health to all their whole body."
Your heart will overflow with "springs of life".
Your ways will be established.
The way of wisdom, the way of righteousness, that begins in the fear of the Lord and is found in His sacred Word, is indeed the key to Life, to all that is "good and acceptable and perfect," (Romans 12:2). We must not allow ourselves to be "conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove ( discern) what the will of God is..." God has given us all we need for life, real life, in His Word.
Solomon also adds for us the warning of what happens if we turn away, if we are not diligent, if we let go...
"Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not proceed in the way of evil men. Avoid it, do not pass by it; turn away from it and pass on.... (for) the way of the wicked is like darkness; they do not know over what they stumble" (v 14,15, 19)
So, what do we do with these words from our Father? If we believe them and want to obey them, then we will pray and ask the Lord to enable us to be diligent to seek His wisdom and to hear His Voice and to walk in His ways. We will be more conscientious about teaching the Word to our children and grandchildren. And so I pray:
Father in heaven, Holy and Blessed are You in all the earth! You are the Creator and Sustainer of Life and You are gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and great in lovingkindness. Father, fill me now with Your Holy Spirit, the Spirit of love, of power, and of sound minds, that I might acquire wisdom and understanding, that I might keep Your Word and diligently teach Your Word to any and all that come into my life, especially my children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Oh Father , I ask, seek, and knock, coming to Your throne of grace, that I might live according to Your Word, to please You in every way and bearing fruit in every good work. As always, I pray for Your saving grace to bring my loved ones to faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and I ask this in His Name. Amen.
give attention to it
refuse to abandon it
keep it
acquire it
guard it
never turn away or forsake it
prize it
honor it
embrace it
take hold of it
incline our ears to it
watch over our hearts diligently to keep it
fix our gaze on it
watch our paths to keep our feet straight on it
See how important it is to stay in God's Word! And to teach it to our children day and night, as Moses taught in Deuteronomy 6:7 "and you shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up." We are to "bind" them, these Words of Life, to our hands and to our heads... to know the Word and to do the Word. This is more important than a great education or a great skill or talent, a successful career, or any amount of money or possessions.
Again, Solomon tells of the benefits of acquiring, purchasing, wisdom and understanding:
She (wisdom) will guard you and watch over you.
She will exalt you.
She will honor you.
She will crown you with grace and beauty.
You will have many years of life.
Your paths will not be blocked or impeded.
"And if you run, you will not stumble."
She will lead to life.
She will bring light and more light.
The Word brings life and " health to all their whole body."
Your heart will overflow with "springs of life".
Your ways will be established.
The way of wisdom, the way of righteousness, that begins in the fear of the Lord and is found in His sacred Word, is indeed the key to Life, to all that is "good and acceptable and perfect," (Romans 12:2). We must not allow ourselves to be "conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove ( discern) what the will of God is..." God has given us all we need for life, real life, in His Word.
Solomon also adds for us the warning of what happens if we turn away, if we are not diligent, if we let go...
"Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not proceed in the way of evil men. Avoid it, do not pass by it; turn away from it and pass on.... (for) the way of the wicked is like darkness; they do not know over what they stumble" (v 14,15, 19)
So, what do we do with these words from our Father? If we believe them and want to obey them, then we will pray and ask the Lord to enable us to be diligent to seek His wisdom and to hear His Voice and to walk in His ways. We will be more conscientious about teaching the Word to our children and grandchildren. And so I pray:
Father in heaven, Holy and Blessed are You in all the earth! You are the Creator and Sustainer of Life and You are gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and great in lovingkindness. Father, fill me now with Your Holy Spirit, the Spirit of love, of power, and of sound minds, that I might acquire wisdom and understanding, that I might keep Your Word and diligently teach Your Word to any and all that come into my life, especially my children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Oh Father , I ask, seek, and knock, coming to Your throne of grace, that I might live according to Your Word, to please You in every way and bearing fruit in every good work. As always, I pray for Your saving grace to bring my loved ones to faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and I ask this in His Name. Amen.
Friday, March 17, 2017
Proverbs 3 To live in the "fear of the Lord" according to the knowledge He gives and the wisdom He provides is of such great value! This chapter gives us an account of the many, many benefits of listening and doing what He is teaching:
Length of days and years of life ; v2
peace;
favor and good repute; v4
straight paths; v6
healing to your body; v8
refreshment to your bones;
barns filled with plenty; v10
vats overflowing;
profits better than silver or gold; v14
long life; v16
riches and honor;
pleasant ways; v17
paths of peace;
happiness; v18
life to the soul; v22
security ; v23
sweet sleep; v24
confidence instead of fear; v 26
intimacy with God; v32
blessings on your home; v33
grace in affliction; v 34
honor; v35
What more could we ask for? And these are just the ones that are given in our life on earth, how much greater are His benefits to us in eternal glory!!
These are God's desires for each of us! And they are ours as we take His Word into our hearts and trust Him... lean on Him, have confidence in Him, and find our support in Him. We must learn to not "lean on [our] own understanding".. to not try to support ourselves with what we know, or think we know. But, "acknowledge Him".. see Him in everything, observe, recognize, sense, be aware, discern, discover.. Him! He is here, in every path, in every day, in every choice... if we will turn our eyes to Him instead of thinking we our "wise" in ourselves.
There are commandments that God wants us to remember as we walk in His ways.
"Do not let kindness and truth leave you;..." v3
"Honor the Lord from your wealth.." v9
"Do not reject the discipline of the Lord.." v11
"Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it." v27-28
"Do not devise harm against your neighbor..." v29
"Do not envy a man of violence , and do not choose any of his ways." v31
Father, All Glorious and Gracious King, we give You praise and bless Your Name. You are good! Your ways are wonderful and perfect. Why do we struggle to submit everything to You? How do we stray so easily? Help us, Lord, to keep Your Word, to bind them to our necks, and write them on the tablets of our hearts. Give us ears to hear and to obey Your Word by the power of Your Spirit and in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ. May we be faithful to teach our children and grandchildren the Way of Truth. Thank You . amen
Length of days and years of life ; v2
peace;
favor and good repute; v4
straight paths; v6
healing to your body; v8
refreshment to your bones;
barns filled with plenty; v10
vats overflowing;
profits better than silver or gold; v14
long life; v16
riches and honor;
pleasant ways; v17
paths of peace;
happiness; v18
life to the soul; v22
security ; v23
sweet sleep; v24
confidence instead of fear; v 26
intimacy with God; v32
blessings on your home; v33
grace in affliction; v 34
honor; v35
What more could we ask for? And these are just the ones that are given in our life on earth, how much greater are His benefits to us in eternal glory!!
These are God's desires for each of us! And they are ours as we take His Word into our hearts and trust Him... lean on Him, have confidence in Him, and find our support in Him. We must learn to not "lean on [our] own understanding".. to not try to support ourselves with what we know, or think we know. But, "acknowledge Him".. see Him in everything, observe, recognize, sense, be aware, discern, discover.. Him! He is here, in every path, in every day, in every choice... if we will turn our eyes to Him instead of thinking we our "wise" in ourselves.
There are commandments that God wants us to remember as we walk in His ways.
"Do not let kindness and truth leave you;..." v3
"Honor the Lord from your wealth.." v9
"Do not reject the discipline of the Lord.." v11
"Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it." v27-28
"Do not devise harm against your neighbor..." v29
"Do not envy a man of violence , and do not choose any of his ways." v31
Father, All Glorious and Gracious King, we give You praise and bless Your Name. You are good! Your ways are wonderful and perfect. Why do we struggle to submit everything to You? How do we stray so easily? Help us, Lord, to keep Your Word, to bind them to our necks, and write them on the tablets of our hearts. Give us ears to hear and to obey Your Word by the power of Your Spirit and in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ. May we be faithful to teach our children and grandchildren the Way of Truth. Thank You . amen
Thursday, March 16, 2017
Proverbs 2
Verses 1-4 show us the steps that we need to intentionally take ( and teach our children to take) in order to "discern the fear of the Lord, and discover the knowledge of God" ( v5):
1st we must "receive" the Word being taught.
We must treasure it in our hearts - to hide it, protect it, and esteem it.
We must "make [our ears] attentive to wisdom.
We must "incline [our hearts] to understanding"
We must "cry for discernment".
We must pray for understanding.
We must seek it.. as more valuable than money or treasures.
In other words, this is not a casual relationship with the Word of God. It is not a quick, " Well, I've read my verses.. or chapters.. for today and I'm done..." kind of devotional time. To receive it, treasure it, heed it, pray about it, and seek it... means that we must devote time and effort and our full attention, with prayer, as we open our Bibles and read. It means that we "hear" the Voice of God as we read what He has preserved for us and says to us by the power of His Holy Spirit.
Verses 6-12 tells us that the Word of God, the knowledge of God, comes to us because it is the Lord who "gives wisdom". It is from His mouth that "knowledge and understanding " comes. When we treat God's Word this way we find that it is "sound wisdom" - substantial - real, strong, active, reliable. More than that, "He is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice, and He preserves the way of His godly ones." God, Himself, is Present and actively involved in using His Word to lead us so that we can "discern righteousness and justice and equity and every good course."
He will put His wisdom into our hearts.
He will give us knowledge that is "pleasant to " our souls.
He will give us "discretion" that will guard us and "understanding" that will watch over us to "deliver [us] from the way of evil."
The way of God, the way of wisdom, found in His Word delivers us from:
those who speak " perverse things" - frauds
those who walk in darkness
those who delight in doing evil;
those who enjoy doing evil;
those who are crooked;
those who are devious;
those who are immoral;
those who lead to death;
"So you will walk in the way of good men, and keep to the paths of the righteous. For the upright will live in the land, and the blameless will remain in it." ( v20) While the wicked are "cut off" and "uprooted."
Oh how I wish I had listened better, heeded more, and known these truths in my life! Don't you?
We must make sure our children and grandchildren learn this! Let us teach them that the Word of God is of more value than anything the world has to offer for it is God's voice leading us to life.. to everything good and wonderful.. and away from everything evil and deadly! Let us pray for them to learn these truths.
Father in heaven, this is Your will, may it be done! Amen.
Verses 1-4 show us the steps that we need to intentionally take ( and teach our children to take) in order to "discern the fear of the Lord, and discover the knowledge of God" ( v5):
1st we must "receive" the Word being taught.
We must treasure it in our hearts - to hide it, protect it, and esteem it.
We must "make [our ears] attentive to wisdom.
We must "incline [our hearts] to understanding"
We must "cry for discernment".
We must pray for understanding.
We must seek it.. as more valuable than money or treasures.
In other words, this is not a casual relationship with the Word of God. It is not a quick, " Well, I've read my verses.. or chapters.. for today and I'm done..." kind of devotional time. To receive it, treasure it, heed it, pray about it, and seek it... means that we must devote time and effort and our full attention, with prayer, as we open our Bibles and read. It means that we "hear" the Voice of God as we read what He has preserved for us and says to us by the power of His Holy Spirit.
Verses 6-12 tells us that the Word of God, the knowledge of God, comes to us because it is the Lord who "gives wisdom". It is from His mouth that "knowledge and understanding " comes. When we treat God's Word this way we find that it is "sound wisdom" - substantial - real, strong, active, reliable. More than that, "He is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice, and He preserves the way of His godly ones." God, Himself, is Present and actively involved in using His Word to lead us so that we can "discern righteousness and justice and equity and every good course."
He will put His wisdom into our hearts.
He will give us knowledge that is "pleasant to " our souls.
He will give us "discretion" that will guard us and "understanding" that will watch over us to "deliver [us] from the way of evil."
The way of God, the way of wisdom, found in His Word delivers us from:
those who speak " perverse things" - frauds
those who walk in darkness
those who delight in doing evil;
those who enjoy doing evil;
those who are crooked;
those who are devious;
those who are immoral;
those who lead to death;
"So you will walk in the way of good men, and keep to the paths of the righteous. For the upright will live in the land, and the blameless will remain in it." ( v20) While the wicked are "cut off" and "uprooted."
Oh how I wish I had listened better, heeded more, and known these truths in my life! Don't you?
We must make sure our children and grandchildren learn this! Let us teach them that the Word of God is of more value than anything the world has to offer for it is God's voice leading us to life.. to everything good and wonderful.. and away from everything evil and deadly! Let us pray for them to learn these truths.
Father in heaven, this is Your will, may it be done! Amen.
Wednesday, March 15, 2017
Proverbs 1 Here, the author writes, we will find... wisdom, instruction, understanding, wise behavior, righteousness, justice, equity, prudence, knowledge, and discretion. By hearing, increasing our learning, and acquiring good counsel, we will prosper in life. By teaching our children ( and grandchildren) these things, we will give them a chance to live a good life.. a life pleasing to the Lord. But it has to begin at the most vital point - "the fear of the Lord".
Verse 8 gives a lesson that we must teach our children from the time they are little.. " Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and do not forsake your mother's teaching." Children need to be taught how to listen and how to obey their parents. This assumes that the parents are teaching their children the truth, the Word of God. Discipline is meant to be instruction in right behavior, not punishment for bad behavior. We need to lovingly.. gracefully.. mentor our children in biblical righteousness.
Verses 10-19 Here is a lesson that we need to make sure our children GET... (before they turn into teenagers)...
There are evil people who will try to "entice" them to do wrong, to sin.
They will do everything to get them to follow their evil paths and to do the awful things that they want to do.
Teach them not to fall for it!
For "They ambush their own lives." It is a path that leads to death.
Verses 20-33 On the other hand, we need to teach our children how to listen to Wisdom.
Wisdom's voice is often snuffed out by the noise of the world, so we need to teach them how to find it, in His Word. (v20-22)
They will need to "turn" to wisdom's "reproof". The word "turn" in Hebrew is shuwb - and has the idea of returning, retreating, coming home.. drawing back or withdrawing from (the world). We need to teach our children where to find real answers and truth. "Reproof" speaks of correction, chastisement , proof, reasoning.. and rebuke. It is the argument for what is right.
The reward of those who will listen to wisdom is security and they "shall be at ease from the dread of evil." (v33) Peace!
But the consequences for refusing to listen to wisdom is calamity, dread, distress, anguish, and destruction. ( v24-32)
We all need to know these truths and to live accordingly. We can probably point back to times in our own lives where we failed to turn to wisdom's ways and ignored her call. How much more do we desire for our children and grandchildren to avoid those deadly traps in this day and age?
So, instead of tv, video games, and endless entertainment, let us make a greater effort to spend time with those who God has given us, to teach them these vital Truths! I want to be more diligent and intentional about this.. so I pray...
Father in heaven, You are all wise and all powerful. You are the Voice of wisdom and understanding and Your Word is the source of Life. Help me... help us, to hear what Your Word says today and then to DO IT! Give us the will and ability and the opportunity to teach our children and grandchildren, and great-grandchildren Your truth that they might live righteously and wisely with knowledge that is based on the principle of proper fear of our Almighty God. O, Lord, help us to be faithful in Christ Jesus, to whom we give glory and honor and praise. Amen.
Verse 8 gives a lesson that we must teach our children from the time they are little.. " Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and do not forsake your mother's teaching." Children need to be taught how to listen and how to obey their parents. This assumes that the parents are teaching their children the truth, the Word of God. Discipline is meant to be instruction in right behavior, not punishment for bad behavior. We need to lovingly.. gracefully.. mentor our children in biblical righteousness.
Verses 10-19 Here is a lesson that we need to make sure our children GET... (before they turn into teenagers)...
There are evil people who will try to "entice" them to do wrong, to sin.
They will do everything to get them to follow their evil paths and to do the awful things that they want to do.
Teach them not to fall for it!
For "They ambush their own lives." It is a path that leads to death.
Verses 20-33 On the other hand, we need to teach our children how to listen to Wisdom.
Wisdom's voice is often snuffed out by the noise of the world, so we need to teach them how to find it, in His Word. (v20-22)
They will need to "turn" to wisdom's "reproof". The word "turn" in Hebrew is shuwb - and has the idea of returning, retreating, coming home.. drawing back or withdrawing from (the world). We need to teach our children where to find real answers and truth. "Reproof" speaks of correction, chastisement , proof, reasoning.. and rebuke. It is the argument for what is right.
The reward of those who will listen to wisdom is security and they "shall be at ease from the dread of evil." (v33) Peace!
But the consequences for refusing to listen to wisdom is calamity, dread, distress, anguish, and destruction. ( v24-32)
We all need to know these truths and to live accordingly. We can probably point back to times in our own lives where we failed to turn to wisdom's ways and ignored her call. How much more do we desire for our children and grandchildren to avoid those deadly traps in this day and age?
So, instead of tv, video games, and endless entertainment, let us make a greater effort to spend time with those who God has given us, to teach them these vital Truths! I want to be more diligent and intentional about this.. so I pray...
Father in heaven, You are all wise and all powerful. You are the Voice of wisdom and understanding and Your Word is the source of Life. Help me... help us, to hear what Your Word says today and then to DO IT! Give us the will and ability and the opportunity to teach our children and grandchildren, and great-grandchildren Your truth that they might live righteously and wisely with knowledge that is based on the principle of proper fear of our Almighty God. O, Lord, help us to be faithful in Christ Jesus, to whom we give glory and honor and praise. Amen.
Monday, March 13, 2017
Revelation 16-22
These chapters are so descriptive and yet so mysterious. The seven bowls of wrath are poured out upon the earth. The great harlot, Babylon, falls. The dragon and the beasts are thrown into the lake of fire. The war between the nations and the King of kings is waged. The judgement takes place before the throne of God. The new Jerusalem is revealed and the wedding feast of the Lamb occurs.
The message is repeated... "I am coming quickly".. All of this revelation is given for the sake of those who believe in Jesus. This is for us. That we might hold on, overcome, trust, and be prepared for those things that will take place.
Though we do not know how or when all these things will happen, we can know this, " Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter by the gates into the city."( 22:14)
Another song comes to mind:
These chapters are so descriptive and yet so mysterious. The seven bowls of wrath are poured out upon the earth. The great harlot, Babylon, falls. The dragon and the beasts are thrown into the lake of fire. The war between the nations and the King of kings is waged. The judgement takes place before the throne of God. The new Jerusalem is revealed and the wedding feast of the Lamb occurs.
The message is repeated... "I am coming quickly".. All of this revelation is given for the sake of those who believe in Jesus. This is for us. That we might hold on, overcome, trust, and be prepared for those things that will take place.
Though we do not know how or when all these things will happen, we can know this, " Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter by the gates into the city."( 22:14)
Another song comes to mind:
Come, we that love the Lord,
And let our joys be known;
Join in a song with sweet accord,
Join in a song with sweet accord,
And thus surround the throne,
And thus surround the throne.
Chorus
We're marching to Zion,
Beautiful, beautiful Zion,
We're marching upward to Zion,
The beautiful city of God.
Verse 4
Then let our songs abound
and every tear be dry;
We're marching through Emmanuel's ground,
We're marching through Emmanuel's ground,
To fairer worlds on high,
To fairer worlds on high.
For the joy that is set before us... we lay down our lives and take up our crosses and follow Him.
As the old song goes.. " It will be worth it all, when we see Jesus"!!!
Father in heaven, Hallowed... hallowed be Your Name! May Your Kingdom come! May Your will be done, on earth as it is done in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread. Forgive us our trespasses as we now forgive any who have trespassed against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one. For, Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen!
Friday, March 10, 2017
Revelation 13-15 As I read these chapters, I find myself in awe of the magnitude of all that God has revealed... the greatness of His plan is overwhelming. I long to understand, but know that it is far beyond my capacity. Great scholars have studied every word and yet cannot really fathom its depths. Instead, I will simply pray, once again, "What are You saying to me today, My Lord?"
Chapter 13 finds John witnessing two events, the beast that comes from the sea and the second beast who comes out of the earth.
The first beast has ten horns and 7 heads, like the dragon in chapter 12 ( who is Satan). The dragon gives this beast his authority and power. The beast appears to have a fatal wound on one of his heads, but has been healed. The beast is worshipped on the earth because of his power and authority.
He is given:
an arrogant, blasphemous mouth; v5
authority to act for 42 months; v5
the power to make war with the saints ; v6
authority over every tribe, people, tongue, and nation; v7
The only ones protected from this beast are those whose names are "written from the foundation of the world in the book of life or the Lamb who was slain." v8
The second beast "exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence." He makes the earth worship the first beast. He performs signs. He deceives those still left on earth. He makes an image of the first beast and is "given" the ability to give it breath and make it speak. He establishes the mark of the beast and orders all to receive it in order to buy or sell.
Chapter 14 presents the Lamb once again. He stands on Mount Zion with the 144,000 who have the Name of the Father and the Son written on their foreheads. They stand in opposition to the beast and his followers. They are pure, chaste, and "blameless".
Angels appear and bring pronouncements:
The first angel has the "eternal gospel" and calls all to "Fear God and give Him glory..."
The second angel pronounces the doom of "Babylon, the great".
The third angel warns of the judgement upon all who take the mark of the beast.
A fourth angel calls for the harvest on the earth to be reaped.
A fifth brings another sickle ;
A sixth angel calls for the previous angel to reap the ripened grapes from the earth. These are thrown in the "great wine press of the wrath of God".
Chapter 15 introduces 7 more angels, these carrying 7 plagues. We are told that these are the "last, because in them the wrath of God is finished."
Worship breaks out once again. Those who survived the beast and did not take his number, stand before God with golden harps. They are given the song of Moses,
"Great and marvelous are Thy works, O Lord God, the Almighty; Righteous and true are Thy ways, Thou King of the nations. Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? For Thou alone art holy;
For all the nations will come and worship before Thee, for Thy righteous acts have been revealed."
At this, "the temple of the tabernacle of testimony in heaven was opened," and the seven angels come out and are given the seven golden bowls "full of the wrath of God,who lives forever and ever."
"And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from His power; and no one was able to enter the temple until the seven plagues of the seven angels were finished."
So, here is what I hear the Shepherd saying to me today...
God will pour out His wrath on the earth, upon all who will not repent and give Him glory.
We have every reason to fear the Lord, to bow before Him and to worship Him alone.
There will come a time when God will be finished with these judgements, when His wrath will end.
There are those who I pray for .. who I love.. who need to hear the gospel again, to seek Him and find Him before it is too late.
Saints persevere by keeping the "commandments of God and their faith in Jesus." (14:12)
Father in heaven , thank You for saving me through the blood of the Lamb. Thank You for the great and marvelous works that You have done and will do. You are holy and perfect, righteous and just.
Through all of my life, You have shown grace to me and I am thankful. Thank You that my name is written in the Lamb's book of life. May I persevere in my faith in Jesus and in obedience to Your Word, all the days of my life, I pray in His Wonderful Name, amen.
Chapter 13 finds John witnessing two events, the beast that comes from the sea and the second beast who comes out of the earth.
The first beast has ten horns and 7 heads, like the dragon in chapter 12 ( who is Satan). The dragon gives this beast his authority and power. The beast appears to have a fatal wound on one of his heads, but has been healed. The beast is worshipped on the earth because of his power and authority.
He is given:
an arrogant, blasphemous mouth; v5
authority to act for 42 months; v5
the power to make war with the saints ; v6
authority over every tribe, people, tongue, and nation; v7
The only ones protected from this beast are those whose names are "written from the foundation of the world in the book of life or the Lamb who was slain." v8
The second beast "exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence." He makes the earth worship the first beast. He performs signs. He deceives those still left on earth. He makes an image of the first beast and is "given" the ability to give it breath and make it speak. He establishes the mark of the beast and orders all to receive it in order to buy or sell.
Chapter 14 presents the Lamb once again. He stands on Mount Zion with the 144,000 who have the Name of the Father and the Son written on their foreheads. They stand in opposition to the beast and his followers. They are pure, chaste, and "blameless".
Angels appear and bring pronouncements:
The first angel has the "eternal gospel" and calls all to "Fear God and give Him glory..."
The second angel pronounces the doom of "Babylon, the great".
The third angel warns of the judgement upon all who take the mark of the beast.
A fourth angel calls for the harvest on the earth to be reaped.
A fifth brings another sickle ;
A sixth angel calls for the previous angel to reap the ripened grapes from the earth. These are thrown in the "great wine press of the wrath of God".
Chapter 15 introduces 7 more angels, these carrying 7 plagues. We are told that these are the "last, because in them the wrath of God is finished."
Worship breaks out once again. Those who survived the beast and did not take his number, stand before God with golden harps. They are given the song of Moses,
"Great and marvelous are Thy works, O Lord God, the Almighty; Righteous and true are Thy ways, Thou King of the nations. Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? For Thou alone art holy;
For all the nations will come and worship before Thee, for Thy righteous acts have been revealed."
At this, "the temple of the tabernacle of testimony in heaven was opened," and the seven angels come out and are given the seven golden bowls "full of the wrath of God,who lives forever and ever."
"And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from His power; and no one was able to enter the temple until the seven plagues of the seven angels were finished."
So, here is what I hear the Shepherd saying to me today...
God will pour out His wrath on the earth, upon all who will not repent and give Him glory.
We have every reason to fear the Lord, to bow before Him and to worship Him alone.
There will come a time when God will be finished with these judgements, when His wrath will end.
There are those who I pray for .. who I love.. who need to hear the gospel again, to seek Him and find Him before it is too late.
Saints persevere by keeping the "commandments of God and their faith in Jesus." (14:12)
Father in heaven , thank You for saving me through the blood of the Lamb. Thank You for the great and marvelous works that You have done and will do. You are holy and perfect, righteous and just.
Through all of my life, You have shown grace to me and I am thankful. Thank You that my name is written in the Lamb's book of life. May I persevere in my faith in Jesus and in obedience to Your Word, all the days of my life, I pray in His Wonderful Name, amen.
Thursday, March 9, 2017
Revelation 12 A sign is given "in heaven" . The woman ready to give birth is thought to be Israel. The child is thought to be Christ or a more recent theory is the church. Satan attacks, but the woman and her child are saved. The woman is safe in the wilderness, but the child is caught up to God. A war between Michael and Satan is waged, and Satan is cast down to the earth. There he angrily wages war for any that are still left that have put their trust in Jesus.
I do not begin to understand or say for certain what all this means and how it will actually happen. But this one thing I know, Christ is coming for His Bride! We need to be ready and watching. We can be certain that our God has shown us the future events for His purposes... that we might be prepared and that we might speak out the Truth so that others can know.
Father in heaven, You alone know the day and the hour of Christ's return. You know when the trumpet will sound and the church will be caught up to Your throne. We want to be ready. We want to trust and obey faithfully every day, for we do not want to be caught unprepared, like the maidens who failed to bring enough oil. Fill us Holy Spirit, that we might be alert and ready for the Day of His appearing. Lord Jesus, come quickly . Amen!
I do not begin to understand or say for certain what all this means and how it will actually happen. But this one thing I know, Christ is coming for His Bride! We need to be ready and watching. We can be certain that our God has shown us the future events for His purposes... that we might be prepared and that we might speak out the Truth so that others can know.
Father in heaven, You alone know the day and the hour of Christ's return. You know when the trumpet will sound and the church will be caught up to Your throne. We want to be ready. We want to trust and obey faithfully every day, for we do not want to be caught unprepared, like the maidens who failed to bring enough oil. Fill us Holy Spirit, that we might be alert and ready for the Day of His appearing. Lord Jesus, come quickly . Amen!
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
Revelation 8-11 The seventh seal is opened and seven angels prepare to sound seven trumpets. With each trumpet blast another disaster falls on the earth.
1 - hail, fire and blood are thrown down to the earth and burn up 1/3 of the earth, the trees, and the grass .
2- a mountain of fire was thrown into the sea turning into blood and killing 1/3 of the sea creatures and destroying 1/3 of the ships.
3- a great burning star falls and poisons 1/3 of the rivers and springs, killing many.
4- 1/3 of the sun, the moon, and the stars are darkened.
5- the bottomless pit is opened and deadly locusts are set free to torture men for 5 months
6-4 angels are released to kill 1/3 of all mankind, 200 million horsemen are also sent to kill
Those left on the earth, we are told, still refuse to repent and turn away from their worship of demons.
John hears 7 peals of thunder but is not allowed to write about the message given. He is told to take the little book that a strong angel is holding and to eat it. It is sweet to taste but bitter to the stomach.
Then the 2 witnesses are introduced. These two are given1,260 days to prophesy in Jerusalem before they are killed and then raised to life after 3 1/2 days.
Finally, the 7th trumpet is sounded and worship breaks out in heaven again.
"The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever" sound out the voices in heaven.
The 24 elders add their song, " We give Thee thanks, O Lord God the Almighty who are and who wast, because Thou hast taken Thy great power and hast begun to reign."
The time has come. God's heavenly temple is opened and the ark of His covenant appears.
Lightning and thunder, an earthquake and a hailstorm accompany this great event.
Judgement will come to this earth. We will one day see the end of wickedness and the final judgement of sin. Whether we experience from this side or from heaven, we cannot know. But, it will happen. The only hope we have to escape the horrors to come, is through Jesus Christ. Once again I find my heart sorrowing for those who refuse to repent from their sins, to turn to Jesus, and to find His mercy and grace while it can be found.
Father in heaven, Merciful and Mighty, I plead with You to save my loved ones that are not walking in Your Truth and Light. Father, will You open their blind eyes and speak into their darkened hearts? O Lord, grant them a heart to seek You and to find You, to surrender to You, and to be brought into the Kingdom of Your Beloved Son! I ask this in His Mighty Name, the Name of Jesus, Amen.
1 - hail, fire and blood are thrown down to the earth and burn up 1/3 of the earth, the trees, and the grass .
2- a mountain of fire was thrown into the sea turning into blood and killing 1/3 of the sea creatures and destroying 1/3 of the ships.
3- a great burning star falls and poisons 1/3 of the rivers and springs, killing many.
4- 1/3 of the sun, the moon, and the stars are darkened.
5- the bottomless pit is opened and deadly locusts are set free to torture men for 5 months
6-4 angels are released to kill 1/3 of all mankind, 200 million horsemen are also sent to kill
Those left on the earth, we are told, still refuse to repent and turn away from their worship of demons.
John hears 7 peals of thunder but is not allowed to write about the message given. He is told to take the little book that a strong angel is holding and to eat it. It is sweet to taste but bitter to the stomach.
Then the 2 witnesses are introduced. These two are given1,260 days to prophesy in Jerusalem before they are killed and then raised to life after 3 1/2 days.
Finally, the 7th trumpet is sounded and worship breaks out in heaven again.
"The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever" sound out the voices in heaven.
The 24 elders add their song, " We give Thee thanks, O Lord God the Almighty who are and who wast, because Thou hast taken Thy great power and hast begun to reign."
The time has come. God's heavenly temple is opened and the ark of His covenant appears.
Lightning and thunder, an earthquake and a hailstorm accompany this great event.
Judgement will come to this earth. We will one day see the end of wickedness and the final judgement of sin. Whether we experience from this side or from heaven, we cannot know. But, it will happen. The only hope we have to escape the horrors to come, is through Jesus Christ. Once again I find my heart sorrowing for those who refuse to repent from their sins, to turn to Jesus, and to find His mercy and grace while it can be found.
Father in heaven, Merciful and Mighty, I plead with You to save my loved ones that are not walking in Your Truth and Light. Father, will You open their blind eyes and speak into their darkened hearts? O Lord, grant them a heart to seek You and to find You, to surrender to You, and to be brought into the Kingdom of Your Beloved Son! I ask this in His Mighty Name, the Name of Jesus, Amen.
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
Revelation 7 We get another glimpse of heaven in this interlude between the 6th and 7th seal. On earth there are 4 angels preparing for something that will harm the earth and the seas. There is also another angel that is setting God's seal on 144,000 men from the 12 tribes of Israel. But, John's attention is drawn back to the throne, where multitudes of people "from every nation and all tribes and people and tongues" are worshipping the Lord God and the Lamb.
All the angels join in this worship around the throne. Their song is " Amen, blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving, and honor, and power and might be to our God forever and ever. Amen"
One of the elders prompts John to find out about the multitude in white robes. He explains that these are those who will come out of the tribulation, "and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." They serve God. They receive His covering. They are protected from hunger and thirst and heat.. They are placed in the care of the Great Shepherd, Jesus, who will tenderly lead them to "springs of the water of life; and God shall wipe every tear from their eyes."
Charles Spurgeon writes about those who were persecuted in the early church and the sorrows they have known, " My blood runs cold as I read of what the saints of God have suffered. I have often set Foxes' Book of Martyrs upon the shelf and thought that I could not read it any longer, because it is such an accurate account of what human nature can bear when faith in Christ sustains it.
Yet, friends, you should not grieve the the martyrs suffered as they did . Or, if you are sorrowful, that very sorrow is turned to joy at the remembrance of how Christ has been glorified through the sufferings of His saints.... When I think of the honor of being a martyr for the truth I confess that I would sooner be in that position than be the angel Gabriel. I think it would be better to go to heaven from the stakes than to have always been in heaven. What honor it has brought to Christ that poor, feeble men could love Him so much that they could bleed and die for Him!" ( From The Fullness of Joy)
Yet, the persecution to come in the last days will be just as bad or worse than those of the early church. I cannot fathom it. I know that there are many that are suffering now, and it breaks my heart when I read their stories or see the pictures... but it is so far off from my daily experiences that I don't know what it is really like. Perhaps there is a day coming for us here in America, for we see the way the wind is blowing, when we also will need to wash our robes in His blood. If and when that happens, I pray that I will bring honor to my Savior.
Father in heaven, it is for the joy that is set before us, the joy of standing before Your throne with people from all nations, tribes, tongues, and peoples, singing praises to You and falling before You in worship, that I choose to believe and to follow Christ Jesus with all my heart. May I honor You with my life and in my death, however that will happen. For I ask this in the Name of Jesus. Amen.
All the angels join in this worship around the throne. Their song is " Amen, blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving, and honor, and power and might be to our God forever and ever. Amen"
One of the elders prompts John to find out about the multitude in white robes. He explains that these are those who will come out of the tribulation, "and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." They serve God. They receive His covering. They are protected from hunger and thirst and heat.. They are placed in the care of the Great Shepherd, Jesus, who will tenderly lead them to "springs of the water of life; and God shall wipe every tear from their eyes."
Charles Spurgeon writes about those who were persecuted in the early church and the sorrows they have known, " My blood runs cold as I read of what the saints of God have suffered. I have often set Foxes' Book of Martyrs upon the shelf and thought that I could not read it any longer, because it is such an accurate account of what human nature can bear when faith in Christ sustains it.
Yet, friends, you should not grieve the the martyrs suffered as they did . Or, if you are sorrowful, that very sorrow is turned to joy at the remembrance of how Christ has been glorified through the sufferings of His saints.... When I think of the honor of being a martyr for the truth I confess that I would sooner be in that position than be the angel Gabriel. I think it would be better to go to heaven from the stakes than to have always been in heaven. What honor it has brought to Christ that poor, feeble men could love Him so much that they could bleed and die for Him!" ( From The Fullness of Joy)
Yet, the persecution to come in the last days will be just as bad or worse than those of the early church. I cannot fathom it. I know that there are many that are suffering now, and it breaks my heart when I read their stories or see the pictures... but it is so far off from my daily experiences that I don't know what it is really like. Perhaps there is a day coming for us here in America, for we see the way the wind is blowing, when we also will need to wash our robes in His blood. If and when that happens, I pray that I will bring honor to my Savior.
Father in heaven, it is for the joy that is set before us, the joy of standing before Your throne with people from all nations, tribes, tongues, and peoples, singing praises to You and falling before You in worship, that I choose to believe and to follow Christ Jesus with all my heart. May I honor You with my life and in my death, however that will happen. For I ask this in the Name of Jesus. Amen.
Monday, March 6, 2017
Revelation 6 Jesus, the Lamb of God, takes the book and breaks the seals, one by one. As each seal is broken, a judgement is issued.
As the first seal is opened, one of the living creatures calls out, "Come" and a white horse enters. The rider has a bow and is given a crown. He is sent out to conquer. Our world is filled now with dictators and rulers, kings and presidents, people of power and authority.. but this conqueror will bring them all down. He will have authority to rule for a time and our world will be brought into subjection to him.
The second seal brings a second rider, this time on a red horse. He carries a sword and incites war among men.
The third seal produces a rider on a black horse carrying a pair of scales. This, we are told, indicates that famine will come to all the earth.
The fourth seal brings forth a pale horse and the rider's name is Death. He is accompanied by "Hades". "And authority was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword and with famine and with pestilence and by the wild beasts of the earth." (v8)
Disaster upon disaster will come upon this earth, bringing God's fierce judgements to those who refused to repent and turn to God's freely offered salvation. And this is just the beginning.
When the fifth seal is broken, John's attention is drawn to the base of the altar. "the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God, and because of the testimony which they had maintained;" were crying out to the Lord for Him to avenge the spilling of their blood. But, the "number of their fellow servants" who were "to be killed" was not yet completed.
The sixth seal is then broken and a world-wide earthquake erupts. It makes the sun turn black and the moon turn red. Even the stars are affected by this great earthquake. The sky itself splits and the mountains and islands of the earth move. Every person on the earth will run and try to hide for they know that the "great day of their wrath", the wrath of God and of the Lamb, has come.
"Who is able to stand?" they cry. No one. No one will escape the judgements of God.
Father in heaven, I praise You for You are great and Sovereign above all of Your creation. The past, the present, and the future are in Your hands and are not a mystery to You at all. We understand so little, but what we do know is that You are a loving and gracious God. You have chosen to show us mercy and grace by sending Jesus, the Lamb, who was slain to purchase us, those who believe, for You. Thank You that we will not face Your wrath, but that we will come to You in worship, rejoicing at the great salvation that You have provided. Father, I pray for my own family, for those who are still unbelieving, and ask that You will break through their hard hearts, shining Your light once again, bringing them to repentance, that they might also be saved. I thank You for hearing this prayer. You are Faithful and true. Amen.
As the first seal is opened, one of the living creatures calls out, "Come" and a white horse enters. The rider has a bow and is given a crown. He is sent out to conquer. Our world is filled now with dictators and rulers, kings and presidents, people of power and authority.. but this conqueror will bring them all down. He will have authority to rule for a time and our world will be brought into subjection to him.
The second seal brings a second rider, this time on a red horse. He carries a sword and incites war among men.
The third seal produces a rider on a black horse carrying a pair of scales. This, we are told, indicates that famine will come to all the earth.
The fourth seal brings forth a pale horse and the rider's name is Death. He is accompanied by "Hades". "And authority was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword and with famine and with pestilence and by the wild beasts of the earth." (v8)
Disaster upon disaster will come upon this earth, bringing God's fierce judgements to those who refused to repent and turn to God's freely offered salvation. And this is just the beginning.
When the fifth seal is broken, John's attention is drawn to the base of the altar. "the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God, and because of the testimony which they had maintained;" were crying out to the Lord for Him to avenge the spilling of their blood. But, the "number of their fellow servants" who were "to be killed" was not yet completed.
The sixth seal is then broken and a world-wide earthquake erupts. It makes the sun turn black and the moon turn red. Even the stars are affected by this great earthquake. The sky itself splits and the mountains and islands of the earth move. Every person on the earth will run and try to hide for they know that the "great day of their wrath", the wrath of God and of the Lamb, has come.
"Who is able to stand?" they cry. No one. No one will escape the judgements of God.
Father in heaven, I praise You for You are great and Sovereign above all of Your creation. The past, the present, and the future are in Your hands and are not a mystery to You at all. We understand so little, but what we do know is that You are a loving and gracious God. You have chosen to show us mercy and grace by sending Jesus, the Lamb, who was slain to purchase us, those who believe, for You. Thank You that we will not face Your wrath, but that we will come to You in worship, rejoicing at the great salvation that You have provided. Father, I pray for my own family, for those who are still unbelieving, and ask that You will break through their hard hearts, shining Your light once again, bringing them to repentance, that they might also be saved. I thank You for hearing this prayer. You are Faithful and true. Amen.
Friday, March 3, 2017
Revelation 5 John has described his first glimpse of heaven and now observes a specific, significant event.. that turns into a worship service.
Verse 1.. John sees - a book in the Father's right Hand. The book or scroll is sealed with 7 seals.
Verse 2.. John hears - " a strong angel" loudly asks, " Who is worthy to open the book and to break the seals."
Verse 4... John weeps because none are found worthy, until one of the elders comforts him. " Stop weeping; behold, the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to open the book and its seven seals."
Jesus, the Lion, the Lamb, "standing, as if slain" appears in the center of the scene. " And He came, and He took it out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne." ( v7)
He is worthy!
He overcame. He fulfilled the will of the Father. He has the right to come and open the book.
Worship breaks out..
The first song is sung by the 4 creatures and the 24 elders.
v9-10 " Worthy art Thou to take the book, and to break its seals; For Thou wast slain, and didst purchase for God with Thy blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. And Thou hast made them a kingdom and priests to our God. And they will reign upon the earth."
The second song adds the voices of myriads of angels!
v12 "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing."
v13 The third song adds the voices of "every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea.... To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever."
Jesus is worthy. He is the Lion of Judah and the Lamb that was slain.
He purchased us with His blood.
He makes us a kingdom and priests.
He is worthy of all power, of all miraculous works, of all strength, of all might.
He is worthy of all riches, of all wealth and abundance.
He is worthy of all wisdom, might, honor and glory.
He is worthy of all blessing.
John is privileged to witness this event almost 2000 years ago... yet it is something that hasn't yet happened according to our timeline... for all creation has not yet sung this song. The seals have not yet been broken. The day has not yet come. What a mystery! How amazing ! Have you ever tried to comprehend what it will be like when "time shall be no more" ? We will one day add our voices to those of angels and elders and creatures.. singing praises to the Lamb who is worthy!
Father, let us know the glory of Your majesty and the worthiness of the Son! Fill us with awe and wonder and love for the One who purchased us with His blood and who is worthy to open the book in Your hand. By Your grace we will join in the worship around Your throne. Praise the Lord! Amen.
Verse 1.. John sees - a book in the Father's right Hand. The book or scroll is sealed with 7 seals.
Verse 2.. John hears - " a strong angel" loudly asks, " Who is worthy to open the book and to break the seals."
Verse 4... John weeps because none are found worthy, until one of the elders comforts him. " Stop weeping; behold, the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to open the book and its seven seals."
Jesus, the Lion, the Lamb, "standing, as if slain" appears in the center of the scene. " And He came, and He took it out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne." ( v7)
He is worthy!
He overcame. He fulfilled the will of the Father. He has the right to come and open the book.
Worship breaks out..
The first song is sung by the 4 creatures and the 24 elders.
v9-10 " Worthy art Thou to take the book, and to break its seals; For Thou wast slain, and didst purchase for God with Thy blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. And Thou hast made them a kingdom and priests to our God. And they will reign upon the earth."
The second song adds the voices of myriads of angels!
v12 "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing."
v13 The third song adds the voices of "every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea.... To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever."
Jesus is worthy. He is the Lion of Judah and the Lamb that was slain.
He purchased us with His blood.
He makes us a kingdom and priests.
He is worthy of all power, of all miraculous works, of all strength, of all might.
He is worthy of all riches, of all wealth and abundance.
He is worthy of all wisdom, might, honor and glory.
He is worthy of all blessing.
John is privileged to witness this event almost 2000 years ago... yet it is something that hasn't yet happened according to our timeline... for all creation has not yet sung this song. The seals have not yet been broken. The day has not yet come. What a mystery! How amazing ! Have you ever tried to comprehend what it will be like when "time shall be no more" ? We will one day add our voices to those of angels and elders and creatures.. singing praises to the Lamb who is worthy!
Father, let us know the glory of Your majesty and the worthiness of the Son! Fill us with awe and wonder and love for the One who purchased us with His blood and who is worthy to open the book in Your hand. By Your grace we will join in the worship around Your throne. Praise the Lord! Amen.
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
Revelation 4 John is invited to experience heaven like Isaiah and Ezekiel had once recorded. All three accounts talk about the throne and the creatures.
Isaiah 6:1-6 - Isaiah speaks of the throne, the train of His robe, the Seraphim with six wings, and the song " Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of hosts, The whole earth is full of His glory." There is smoke and fire from the burning coal taken from the altar.
Ezekiel 1:1-28 Ezekiel tells of the four "living beings". He describes them as having "human form", but 4 faces (a man, a lion, a bull, and and eagle) and 4 wings ( 2 that covered their bodies and 2 that spread out. They had legs and hands. They moved without turning. Each had a wheel " like sparkling beryl" and rims full of eyes. Above the heads of these creatures, Ezekiel notes the crystal sea and above that the throne " like lapis lazuli". And on the throne was a fiery Presence with a "radiance around Him", like a rainbow in appearance.
John takes notice of the throne first and the One sitting on the throne. He describes the Lord in terms of brilliant gems - jasper and sardius; He also notes the rainbow around the throne. Unlike Isaiah and Ezekiel, John sees 24 more thrones around the center throne. These are occupied by 24 elders.
There are 7 lamps before the throne. There is the crystal sea and the 4 living creatures. This time one resembles a lion, one a calf, one a man, and one an eagle. They have 6 wings and are "full of eyes". Their song is " Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and who is and who is to come."
Heaven... a place of radiance, beauty, worship and awe. Where God's Glory is fully known and nothing else can compare... Where all movement, all sound, all sights... everything flows towards the Holy One on the throne.
We can only imagine.
Father, someday we will join in the songs of worship around Your throne. Praise to You we sing.. thank You for the joy that is set before us. Keep our eyes and our hearts, even now, undistracted from Your glory. Amen
Isaiah 6:1-6 - Isaiah speaks of the throne, the train of His robe, the Seraphim with six wings, and the song " Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of hosts, The whole earth is full of His glory." There is smoke and fire from the burning coal taken from the altar.
Ezekiel 1:1-28 Ezekiel tells of the four "living beings". He describes them as having "human form", but 4 faces (a man, a lion, a bull, and and eagle) and 4 wings ( 2 that covered their bodies and 2 that spread out. They had legs and hands. They moved without turning. Each had a wheel " like sparkling beryl" and rims full of eyes. Above the heads of these creatures, Ezekiel notes the crystal sea and above that the throne " like lapis lazuli". And on the throne was a fiery Presence with a "radiance around Him", like a rainbow in appearance.
John takes notice of the throne first and the One sitting on the throne. He describes the Lord in terms of brilliant gems - jasper and sardius; He also notes the rainbow around the throne. Unlike Isaiah and Ezekiel, John sees 24 more thrones around the center throne. These are occupied by 24 elders.
There are 7 lamps before the throne. There is the crystal sea and the 4 living creatures. This time one resembles a lion, one a calf, one a man, and one an eagle. They have 6 wings and are "full of eyes". Their song is " Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and who is and who is to come."
Heaven... a place of radiance, beauty, worship and awe. Where God's Glory is fully known and nothing else can compare... Where all movement, all sound, all sights... everything flows towards the Holy One on the throne.
We can only imagine.
Father, someday we will join in the songs of worship around Your throne. Praise to You we sing.. thank You for the joy that is set before us. Keep our eyes and our hearts, even now, undistracted from Your glory. Amen
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