Tag Archives: repentance

Bible open to Matthew

Mindfully Meditating on Matthew chapter 18 or MMM18

Mindfully Meditating in Matthew chapter Eighteen

(c) 2023 M. Christine Wildman

Mindfully Meditating on Matthew Catalogue , the collection of these studies
(First 100 days of 2023, day 49, Feb 18)

Passage Matthew Chapter Eighteen

It doesn’t matter which version you choose. It can be digital or paper. You can use one of those fancy coloring bibles and do a page or coloring along with the passage.

I will mostly do Holman Christian Standard Bible because of their copyright freedoms.

This chapter, though, I will use the New Living Translation for clearing up some of the translations.

New Living Translation (NLT)

Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

  • Matthew 18
    • Mt 18:1-6 Who is the Greatest in Heaven?
      • a little child
        •  3 Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. 4 So anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.
      • Don’t cause one to suffer – to fall into sin
        • 6 But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea.
    • Mt 18:7-9 the sorrows of temptation
      • 7 “What sorrow awaits the world, because it tempts people to sin. Temptations are inevitable, but what sorrow awaits the person who does the tempting.
        • cut off hand, gouge out eye
      • God holds children dear
        • 10 “Beware that you don’t look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father.[c]
    • Mt 18:11- 14 The 99 vs the 1 – promise for wayward children
      • Won’t he leave the ninety-nine others on the hills and go out to search for the one that is lost?
      • rejoice over it more than over the ninety-nine that didn’t wander away!
      •  14 In the same way, it is not my heavenly Father’s will that even one of these little ones should perish.
    • Mt 18:15-17 Conflict Negotiation for the church
      • one-to-one
        • 15 “If another believer[d] sins against you,[e] go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back.
      • bring one or two
        • 16 But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses.
      • whole church
        • 17 If the person still refuses to listen, take your case to the church. 
      • If no change –
        • Then if he or she won’t accept the church’s decision, treat that person as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector.
        • make every attempt possible, but do not poison the body.
    • Mt 18:18- 20 in light of church matters – PRAYER POWER
      • 18 “I tell you the truth, whatever you forbid[f] on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit[g] on earth will be permitted in heaven.
      • 19 “I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. 20 For where two or three gather together as my followers,[h] I am there among them.”
    • Mt 18:21 – 22 How often to forgive
      • 22 “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven![j]
    • Mt 18: 23-35 Forgive to be forgiven Parable
      • 35 “That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters[m] from your heart.”

Mindful Meditating

  1. choose a verse,
  2.  set a timer for 5 minutes, or whatever works for you.
  3.  example: Matt 18:3
  4. repeat to yourself, and at each word, enunciate the next word in the sentence starting with the first word…

example:

  •  3 Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven.
  • UNLESS you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven
  • unless  YOU turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven
  • unless you TURN from your sins and become like little children, you will never get int the Kingdom of Heaven.

…and so on.  This will cause you to look at the verse more intently, and may have you memorize it before your five minutes are done.

Lost Sheep coloring pages by ColoringHome.

Unforgiving Servant Coloring page

Quick Questions – if  you have time, or to think about over the course of the day, and jot down thoughts later.

  1. What qualities do children have that we, as adults, could grow back into?
    1. Your answer
  2. Why is the 99 and 1 verse about wayward children? does it just pertain to God’s children?
    1. Your Answer
  3. Read the Parable of the ruler and the servants – and think of something you’ve been forgiven of, and someone you are in need of forgiving. Could God put the consequences of sin back on us like this parable suggests? What color are the words of this parable in your Bible?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hi!
My hope in the midst of despair and my joy in the face of depression is because of my relationship with Jesus Christ. If you do not have one, or are not sure you will join him in heaven, please check out these links:

Thanks for joining me in this journey,
In His hands and under His wings,
~Christi
Ps 63:7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

Older woman with shades of coral in jewelry and sweater, glasses, silver and brown hair.

M. Christine Wildman

“The Lord does not give me rules, but He makes His standard very clear.
If my relationship to Him is that of love, I will do what He says without hesitation.
If I hesitate, it is because I love someone I have placed in competition with Him, namely, myself.” – from My Utmost for His highest

Copyrights and Legal-eze
There are many organizations that support children and families. Here are ones that we are blessed to be a part of. Please consider sponsoring a child – the life you change could be your own.

Bible open to Matthew

Mindfully Meditating on Matthew chapter 4 or MMM4

 

(c) 2023 M. Christine Wildman

Mindfully Meditating in Matthew, the collection of these studies
(First 100 days of 2023, day 35, Feb 4)

Passage

Matthew Chapter Four

It doesn’t matter which version you choose. It can be digital or paper. You can use one of those fancy coloring bibles and do a page or coloring along with the passage.

I will mostly do Homan Christian Standard Bible because of their copyright freedoms.

  • Matthew 4
    • Mt 4:1-11 The Temptation of Christ
      • 4 But He answered, “It is written:
      • 7 Jesus told him, “It is also written: Do not test the Lord your God.”[
      • 10 Then Jesus told him, “Go away,[f] Satan! For it is written:
        • The basis for spiritual warfare – knowing the Word of God
    • Mt 4:12-17 Ministry Begins
      • 17 From then on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, because the kingdom of heaven has come near!”
    • Mt 4:18-22 Calling Peter, Andrew, James and John
      •  20 Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.
      • 22 Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed Him.
    • Mt 4:23- 25 Teaching and ministry
      • 24 Then the news about Him spread throughout Syria. So they brought to Him all those who were afflicted, those suffering from various diseases and intense pains, the demon-possessed, the epileptics, and the paralytics. And He healed them.

Image by Scottish Guy from Pixabay

Mindful Meditating

  1. choose a verse,
  2.  set a timer for 5 minutes, or whatever works for you.
  3.  example: Matt 4:7
  4. repeat to yourself, and at each word, enunciate the next word in the sentence starting with the first word…

example:

  • 7 Jesus told him, “It is also written: Do not test the Lord your God.”
  • JESUS told him, it is also written…
  • Jesus TOLD him, it is also written…
  • Jesus told HIM, it is also written…

…and so on.  This will cause you to look at the verse more intently, and may have you memorize it before your five minutes are done.

Temptation of Christ- digital or print it out (right click, choose save image and put it in your pictures folder to print out)

Quick Questions – if  you have time, or to think about over the course of the day, and jot down thoughts later.

  1. What do you think the three temptations stand for?
    1. Biblical Christianity says this, which I agree with, but my answer relates to 1 John 2:16
  2. Who else preached “repent”, and why do you think this is what Jesus was preaching?
    1. your answer
  3. What does the calling of the four disciples tell us about how we should respond?
    1. your answer

~~~~~~~

Hi!
My hope in the midst of despair and my joy in the face of depression is because of my relationship with Jesus Christ. If you do not have one, or are not sure you will join him in heaven, please check out these links:

Thanks for joining me in this journey,
In His hands and under His wings,
~Christi
Ps 63:7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

Older woman with shades of coral in jewelry and sweater, glasses, silver and brown hair.

M. Christine Wildman

“The Lord does not give me rules, but He makes His standard very clear.
If my relationship to Him is that of love, I will do what He says without hesitation.
If I hesitate, it is because I love someone I have placed in competition with Him, namely, myself.” – from My Utmost for His highest

Copyrights and Legal-eze
There are many organizations that support children and families. Here are ones that we are blessed to be a part of. Please consider sponsoring a child – the life you change could be your own.

Bible open to Matthew

Mindfully Meditating on Matthew chapter 3 or MMM3

Mindfully Meditating in Matthew, the collection of these studies
(First 100 days of 2023, day 34, Feb 3)

Meditating on Matthew chapter 3Passage

Matthew Chapter Three

It doesn’t matter which version you choose. It can be digital or paper. You can use one of those fancy coloring bibles and do a page or coloring along with the passage.

I will mostly do Homan Christian Standard Bible because of their copyright freedoms.

  • Matthew 3
    • Mt 3:1-12 John the Baptist
      •  2 and saying, “Repent, because the kingdom of heaven has come near!”
      • “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 8 Therefore produce fruit consistent with[c] repentance. 
      • 11 “I baptize you with[d] water for repentance,[e] but the One who is coming after me is more powerful than I. I am not worthy to remove[f] His sandals. He Himself will baptize you with[g] the Holy Spirit and fire.
    • Mt 3:13-17  Jesus’s Baptism
      • 15 Jesus answered him, “Allow it for now, because this is the way for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him to be baptized.
      • 16 After Jesus was baptized, He went up immediately from the water. The heavens suddenly opened for Him,[i] and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming down on Him. 17 And there came a voice from heaven: This is My beloved Son.
        I take delight in Him!

        • heavens opened
        • spirit of God like a dove
        • voice from heaven
        • WOW!!!

Image by Scottish Guy from Pixabay

Mindful Meditating

  1. choose a verse,
  2.  set a timer for 5 minutes, or whatever works for you.
  3.  example: Matt 3:17
  4. repeat to yourself, and at each word, enunciate the next word in the sentence starting with the first word…

example:

  • 17 And there came a voice from heaven: This is My beloved Son.
    I take delight in Him!
  • THERE came a voice from heaven: This is my beloved Son, I take delight in Him!
  • There CAME a voice from heaven: This is my beloved Son, I take delight in Him!
  • There came A voice from heaven:

…and so on.  This will cause you to look at the verse more intently, and may have you memorize it before your five minutes are done.

Jesus’ Baptism coloring page – digital or print it out (right click, choose save image and put it in your pictures folder to print out)

Quick Questions – if  you have time, or to think about over the course of the day, and jot down thoughts later.

  1. Who was John the Baptist? He just shows up.
    1. Bible Study Tools – John the Baptist
  2. Why do you think he wore camels cloth and ate locusts?
    1. Bible Speak – Camel Hair
    2. Bible Ask – honey and locusts
  3. Why didn’t John know that he had to baptize Jesus?
    1. Got Questions – Jesus’ Baptism

~~~~~~~

Hi!
My hope in the midst of despair and my joy in the face of depression is because of my relationship with Jesus Christ. If you do not have one, or are not sure you will join him in heaven, please check out these links:

Thanks for joining me in this journey,
In His hands and under His wings,
~Christi
Ps 63:7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

Older woman with shades of coral in jewelry and sweater, glasses, silver and brown hair.

M. Christine Wildman

“The Lord does not give me rules, but He makes His standard very clear.
If my relationship to Him is that of love, I will do what He says without hesitation.
If I hesitate, it is because I love someone I have placed in competition with Him, namely, myself.” – from My Utmost for His highest

Copyrights and Legal-eze
There are many organizations that support children and families. Here are ones that we are blessed to be a part of. Please consider sponsoring a child – the life you change could be your own.

smile

2023 The First 100 days – day 21 – Wisdom and Praise

2023 The first 100 days – wisdom and praise – January 21

smile

Image by Giulia Marotta from Pixabay

Wisdom and Praise Collection

Psalms 21, 51, 81, 111, 141 and Proverb 21

Most of today’s Psalms deal with Praise and so there is a great and joyful theme.  Two deal with crying out for repentance, one leading to praise and the other leading to a request.

Proverbs is dealing with wicked and the righteous, nagging wives and pride.  There’s some Go To verses in here.

Let’s dig in!

  • Psalm 21 – Joy and Praise
  • Psalm 51 KJV – Repentance
    • Ps 51:1-3
      • 1 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
      •  2Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
      • 3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
        • Hosea 14:2
          • Bring your confessions and return to the LORD. Say to Him: “Take away all our iniquity and receive us graciously, that we may present the fruit of our lips.
        • Acts 3:19-21 NIV 
          • 19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, 20 and that he may send the Messiah, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus. 21 Heaven must receive him until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets
        • Colossians 2:13-14 NIV
          • 13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you[a] alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, 14 having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross.
        • Psalm 4:1
          • Answer me when I call, God, who vindicates me. You freed me from affliction; be gracious to me and hear my prayer.
    • Ps 51:4 The truth of whom we sin against
      • 4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
    • Ps 51:5 original sin discussion point
      •  Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
    • Ps 51:6
      • 6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
        • Proverb 2:6 
          • For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.
        • James 1:5
          • Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God—who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him.
        • Proverb 8:5
          • You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, set your hearts on it.
        • Revelation 21:8
          • But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
        • Romans 8:5
          • Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.
    • Ps 51:7-12 the cry for repentance and forgiveness
    • Ps 51:13 Evidence of change
      • 13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
    • Ps 51:14-15 Prayer for deliverance
      • Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.
      • O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
    • Ps 51:16-17 Not sacrifices, but a clean heart
      • 16 For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering.
      • 17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
        • 1 Sam 15:22, 2 Kings 22:19,  Psalm 147:3
        • Ps 34:17-18
          • The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them;
                he delivers them from all their troubles.
            18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
                and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
    • Ps 51:18-19 the Conclusion
      • 18 Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem.
      • 19 Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offering: then shall they offer bullocks upon thine altar.
    • a few Songs for Psalm 51
  • Psalm 81 NIV – Joy and Praise
    • Ps 81:1-2
      • 1 Sing for joy to God our strength;
            shout aloud to the God of Jacob!
        2 Begin the music, strike the timbrel,
            play the melodious harp and lyre.
    • Ps 81:3-4 Ordained Celebrations
      • 3 Sound the ram’s horn at the New Moon,
            and when the moon is full, on the day of our festival;
        4 this is a decree for Israel,
            an ordinance of the God of Jacob.
    • Ps 81:6-7 affected deliverance
      • “I removed the burden from their shoulders;
            their hands were set free from the basket.
        7 In your distress you called and I rescued you,
            I answered you out of a thundercloud;
            I tested you at the waters of Meribah.[c]
    • Ps 81:8-10 Promises …
      • Hear me, my people, and I will warn you—
            if you would only listen to me, Israel!
        9 You shall have no foreign god among you;
            you shall not worship any god other than me.
        10 I am the Lord your God,
            who brought you up out of Egypt.
        Open wide your mouth and I will fill it.
    • Ps 81:11-12 … and failure
      • But my people would not listen to me;
            Israel would not submit to me.
        12 So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts
            to follow their own devices.

        • Acts 14:16
          • In past generations He allowed all the nations to go their own way,
        • Micah 4:5 
          • Though all the peoples each walk in the name of their gods, we will walk in the name of Yahweh our God forever and ever.
        • R0mans 1:28 
          • And because they did not think it worthwhile to acknowledge God, God delivered them over to a worthless mind to do what is morally wrong.
        • Job 21:14
          • Yet they say to God: “Leave us alone! We don’t want to know Your ways.
    • Ps 81:13-16 God’s plea with His people
      • “If my people would only listen to me,
            if Israel would only follow my ways,
    • Songs for Psalm 81
  • Psalm 111 – Psalm of Praise
  • prayer

    Image by reenablack from Pixabay

    Psalm 141 – Psalm of repentance From David’s Prayer Journal

    • Ps 141:1-2 
      • Lord, I call on You; hurry to help me.
        Listen to my voice when I call on You.
        2 May my prayer be set before You as incense,
        the raising of my hands as the evening offering.
    • Ps 141:3 Go To Verse; Wisdom and Praise 18
      • Lord, set up a guard for my mouth;
        keep watch at the door of my lips.

        • James 1:26
          • If anyone thinks he is religious without controlling his tongue, then his religion is useless and he deceives himself.
        • Ps 34:13
          • Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech.
        • Pr 13:3
          • The one who guards his mouth protects his life; the one who opens his lips invites his own ruin.
            • “It’s better to keep silent and let other’s think you are a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt”
        • Ps 39:1
          •  I said, “I will guard my ways so that I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle as long as the wicked are in my presence.”
    • Ps 141:4-6 yielding to discipline
      • 5 Let the righteous one strike me—
        it is an act of faithful love;
        let him rebuke me—
        it is oil for my head;
        let me[a] not refuse it.
    • Ps 141:8-10 Prayer for protection from Sin
      • But my eyes look to You, Lord God.
        I seek refuge in You; do not let me die.[f]
        9 Protect me from[g] the trap they have set for me,
        and from the snares of evildoers.
        10 Let the wicked fall into their own nets,
        while I pass by safely.
  • Proverb 21 wicked, nagging, pride, and other such sins
    • Pr 21:2
        • All a man’s ways seem right to him,
          but the Lord evaluates the motives.[a]

    • Pr 21:3
      • Doing what is righteous and just
        is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.

          • Isaiah 1:11
            • “What are all your sacrifices to Me?”
              asks the Lord.
              “I have had enough of burnt offerings and rams
              and the fat of well-fed cattle;
              I have no desire for the blood of bulls,
              lambs, or male goats.
          • Ps 40:6
            • You do not delight in sacrifice and offering; You open my ears to listen. You do not ask for a whole burnt offering or a sin offering.
          • Psalm 51:16-17 
            • You do not want a sacrifice, or I would give it;
              You are not pleased with a burnt offering.
              17 The sacrifice pleasing to God is[a] a broken spirit.
              God, You will not despise a broken and humbled heart.
          • Hosea 6:6
            • For I desire loyalty and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.
          • Matthew 9:13
            • Go and learn what this means: I desire mercy and not sacrifice. For I didn’t come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
          • Romans 12:1
            • Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship.
          • Hebrews 13:15
            • Therefore, through Him let us continually offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of our lips that confess His name.
          • Psalms 69:30-32
            • I will praise God’s name with song
              and exalt Him with thanksgiving.
              31 That will please Yahweh more than an ox,
              more than a bull with horns and hooves.
              32 The humble will see it and rejoice.
              You who seek God, take heart!
    • Pr 21:5 Plans of man vs plans of God
      • The plans of the diligent certainly lead to profit,
        but anyone who is reckless certainly becomes poor.

        • 1 Samuel 2:9
          • He guards the steps of His faithful ones, but the wicked perish in darkness, for a man does not prevail by his own strength.
        • Ps 37:23 
          • A man’s steps are established by the LORD, and He takes pleasure in his way.
        • Ps 37:31 NIV
          • The law of their God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip.
    • Pr 21:13 Generosity
      • The one who shuts his ears to the cry of the poor
        will himself also call out and not be answered.

        • James 2:13 NLT
          • There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
        • Matthew 5:7NIV
          • Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
    • Pr 21:17
      • The one who loves pleasure will become a poor man;
        whoever loves wine and oil will not get rich.
    • Pr 21:21
      • The one who pursues righteousness and faithful love
        will find life, righteousness, and honor.

        • Matt 5:6 
          • Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness are blessed, for they will be filled.
        • Pr 15:9
          • The LORD detests the way of the wicked, but He loves the one who pursues righteousness.
    • Pr 21:23
      • The one who guards his mouth and tongue
        keeps himself out of trouble.
      • see Psalm 141:3 above
    • Pr 21:31
      • A horse is prepared for the day of battle,
        but victory comes from the Lord.

        • Ps 20:7 NIV
          • Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.
        • Ps 33:17
          • The horse is a false hope for safety; it provides no escape by its great power.
        • Jer 17:5
          • This is what the LORD says: “Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the LORD.

~~~~~~~

Hi!
My hope in the midst of despair and my joy in the face of depression is because of my relationship with Jesus Christ. If you do not have one, or are not sure you will join him in heaven, please check out these links:

Thanks for joining me in this journey,
In His hands and under His wings,
~Christi
Ps 63:7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

“The Lord does not give me rules, but He makes His standard very clear.
If my relationship to Him is that of love, I will do what He says without hesitation.
If I hesitate, it is because I love someone I have placed in competition with Him, namely, myself.” – from My Utmost for His highest

Copyrights and Legal-eze
There are many organizations that support children and families. Here are ones that we are blessed to be a part of. Please consider sponsoring a child – the life you change could be your own.

milky way over a lake at night

2023 First 100 Days – Wisdom and Praise day 19

First 100 days – day 19 Wisdom and Praise, January 19

Bible open to PsalmsWisdom and Praise
Psalm 19, 49, 79,  109, 139, and Proverb 19

There are songs, and cries for revenge.  There is beauty of being known, and the fear of being set aside.  There’s easy to embrace and difficult.  Proverbs has some interesting tidbits as well

Let’s dig in!

  • Psalm 19 KJV  The whole Psalm is a Go To Verse! great for memorizing.
    • milky way over a lake at night

      (c) M. Christine Wildman, all right reserved

      Ps 19:1-4 Creation declares God

      • The heavens declare the glory of God,
        and the sky[a] proclaims the work of His hands.
        2 Day after day they pour out speech;
        night after night they communicate knowledge.[b]
        3 There is no speech; there are no words;
        their voice is not heard.
        4 Their message[c] has gone out to all the earth,
        and their words to the ends of the world.
      • Romans 1:20
        • For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.
    • Ps 19:7-11 a song that I sang on the video
      • 7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
      • 8 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
      • 9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether
      • 10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
      • 11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.
    • Ps 19:12-14 Prayer for help from sin – Go To Verses
      • 12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.
      • 13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
      • 14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. 
    •  Songs for Psalm 19
  • Psalm 49 – Death comes to All
    • Ps 49:1-4
      • Hear this, all you peoples;
        listen, all who inhabit the world,
        2 both low and high,[a]
        rich and poor together.
        3 My mouth speaks wisdom;
        my heart’s meditation brings understanding.
        4 I turn my ear to a proverb;
        I explain my riddle with a lyre.
    • Ps 49:10 and following
      • For one can see that wise men die;
        foolish and stupid men also pass away.
        Then they leave their wealth to others.
  • Psalm 79 Prayer after having been overtaken by the enemy
    • Jerusalem wall

      Image by IrinaUzv from Pixabay

      Ps 79:1-2

      • God, the nations have invaded Your inheritance,
        desecrated Your holy temple,
        and turned Jerusalem into ruins.
        2 They gave the corpses of Your servants
        to the birds of the sky for food,
        the flesh of Your godly ones
        to the beasts of the earth.
    • Ps 79:5-8 Prayer for deliverance from God’s Anger
      • How long, Yahweh? Will You be angry forever?
        Will Your jealousy keep burning like fire?
    • Ps 79:8- 9 prayer for forgiveness
      • 8 Do not hold past sins[a] against us;
        let Your compassion come to us quickly,
        for we have become weak.
      • 9 God of our salvation, help us—
        for the glory of Your name.
        Deliver us and atone for[b] our sins,
        because of Your name.
    • Ps 79:9-10 appealing to the reputation of God
      • Why should the nations ask,
        “Where is their God?”
        Before our eyes,
        let vengeance for the shed blood of Your servants
        be known among the nations.
    • Ps 79:13 Thanksgiving
      • Then we, Your people, the sheep of Your pasture,
        will thank You forever;
        we will declare Your praise
        to generation after generation.
  • Psalm 109 From David’s Prayer Journal
    • Ps 109:1-5 Prayer for deliverance
      • God of my praise, do not be silent.
      • For wicked and deceitful mouths open against me;
        they speak against me with lying tongues.
        3 They surround me with hateful words
        and attack me without cause.
        4 In return for my love they accuse me,
        but I continue to pray.[a]
        5 They repay me evil for good,
        and hatred for my love.
    • Ps 109:6-20 request for revenge
    • Ps 109:21- 31 Deliver me
      • 21 But You, Yahweh my Lord,
        deal kindly with me because of Your name;
        deliver me because of the goodness of Your faithful love.
        22 For I am afflicted and needy;
        my heart is wounded within me.
        23 I fade away like a lengthening shadow;
        I am shaken off like a locust.
        24 My knees are weak from fasting,
        and my body is emaciated.[f]
        25 I have become an object of ridicule to my accusers;[g]
        when they see me, they shake their heads in scorn.
      • 26 Help me, Lord my God;
        save me according to Your faithful love
        27 so they may know that this is Your hand
        and that You, Lord, have done it.
    • Ps 109: 30- 31 the conclusion of the matter
      • 30 I will fervently thank the Lord with my mouth;
        I will praise Him in the presence of many.
        31 For He stands at the right hand of the needy
        to save him from those who would condemn him.
    • From My Prayer Journal
  • Psalm 139 – David’s Prayer Journal – the Blessing of being known
    • Ps 139:1-6 All Knowing God
      • Lord, You have searched me and known me.
        2 You know when I sit down and when I stand up;
        You understand my thoughts from far away.
        3 You observe my travels and my rest;
        You are aware of all my ways.
        4 Before a word is on my tongue,
        You know all about it, Lord.
        5 You have encircled me;
        You have placed Your hand on me.
        6 This extraordinary knowledge is beyond me.
        It is lofty; I am unable to reach it.
    • Ps 139:7-12 OmniPresent God
      • Where can I go to escape Your Spirit?
        Where can I flee from Your presence?
        8 If I go up to heaven, You are there;
        if I make my bed in Sheol, You are there.
        9 If I live at the eastern horizon
        or settle at the western limits,[a]
        10 even there Your hand will lead me;
        Your right hand will hold on to me.
        11 If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me,
        and the light around me will be night”—
        12 even the darkness is not dark to You.
        The night shines like the day;
        darkness and light are alike to You.

    • Psalm 139:13-16  Known before born, Go To

      • For it was You who created my inward parts;[b]
        You knit me together in my mother’s womb.
        14 I will praise You
        because I have been remarkably and wonderfully made.[c][d]
        Your works are wonderful,
        and I know this very well.
        15 My bones were not hidden from You
        when I was made in secret,
        when I was formed in the depths of the earth.
        16 Your eyes saw me when I was formless;
        all my days were written in Your book and planned
        before a single one of them began.

        • Jeremiah 1:15 I chose you before I formed you in the womb; I set you apart before you were born. I appointed you a prophet to the nations.
    • Ps 139:23-24 Humble before God, Go To Verse
      • Search me, God, and know my heart;
        test me and know my concerns.
        24 See if there is any offensive[g] way in me;
        lead me in the everlasting way.
    • Songs for 139
    • Psalm 139:1-6 by The Corner Room
    • Psalm 139:7-16 by The Corner Room
    • Psalm 139 You have searched me and Known Me by Esther Mui
    • Psalm 139 by ANCLA Gospel Music Singers
    • Psalm 139 Far too Wonderful by Shane and Shane
  • Proverb 19
    • Pr 19:1 Better a poor man who lives with integrity
      than someone who has deceitful lips and is a fool.
    • Pr 19:5 A false witness will not go unpunished,
      and one who utters lies will not escape.
    • Pr 19:8 The one who acquires good sense[c] loves himself;
      one who safeguards understanding finds success.
    • Pr 19:11 A person’s insight gives him patience,
      and his virtue is to overlook an offense.
    • Pr 19:17 Kindness to the poor is a loan to the Lord,
      and He will give a reward to the lender.[e]
    • Pr 19:23 The fear of the Lord leads to life;
      one will sleep at night[h] without danger.

~~~~~~~

Hi!
My hope in the midst of despair and my joy in the face of depression is because of my relationship with Jesus Christ. If you do not have one, or are not sure you will join him in heaven, please check out these links:

Thanks for joining me in this journey,
In His hands and under His wings,
~Christi
Ps 63:7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

“The Lord does not give me rules, but He makes His standard very clear.
If my relationship to Him is that of love, I will do what He says without hesitation.
If I hesitate, it is because I love someone I have placed in competition with Him, namely, myself.” – from My Utmost for His highest

Copyrights and Legal-eze
There are many organizations that support children and families. Here are ones that we are blessed to be a part of. Please consider sponsoring a child – the life you change could be your own.

Itty Bitty Bible Study – Nahum chapters 2&3

Nahum

My thoughts for the Itty Bitty Bible Study group on Facebook. (join if you’d like to get these in fb!) The conversation starts Monday, August 20.


Nahum 2 and 3 are all of the ways that God is going to destroy and wipe out Nineveh and Assyria.

God gives a warning….

Nahum 2 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Attack against Nineveh
2 One who scatters is coming up against you.
Man the fortifications!
Watch the road!
Brace[a] yourself!
Summon all your strength!

I like it better in the NIV

An attacker advances against you, Nineveh.
Guard the fortress,
watch the road,
brace yourselves,
marshal all your strength!

I have seriously considered that these two chapters also describe, not on purpose, the destruction that will occur when Christ returns after the tribulation. That is the interesting aspect of the books of the prophets, they often have meaning in different timelines! In the end, this whole earth will be destroyed…and a new heaven and a new earth will be created. Revelation 21

I have created a summary of Revelation, from the end to the beginning. Nahum has really reminded me of the end times!

Back to Nahum:

Nahum 2:2 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
2 For the Lord will restore the majesty of Jacob,
yes,[a] the majesty of Israel,
though ravagers have ravaged them
and ruined their vine branches.

Read Nahum 2:2 on the Bible hub….there are so many words describing ‘majesty’!

  • splendor
  • honor
  • excellency
  • glory
  • pride

All we need to know about how a slave feels we can read in the writings of so many. I think the earliest would be Uncle Tom’s Cabin. The King and I is a statement against enslaving people. Do a google search – and you can see how huge a topic this is, just in case you have been living under a rock! These qualities are stolen from slaves.

The Jews were slaves.

After years of crying out…some repentance…God heard their cry and set them free.
The American slaves related to the Jewish slaves…and made songs about being set free.
Go down Moses
Wade in the Water
For more Songs of the Underground, Wikipedia is a great source, of course.
The Harriet Tubman Historical Society has much information.

We were slaves to Sin…before we let Jesus in!

Romans 6
6 For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with,[a] that we should no longer be slaves to sin— 7 because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.

God promises to restore the glory, the honor, the pride, the excellency and splendor that being a slave stole from the people of Judah. He promises the same to us, when we are set free from sin, and the enemy! We must choose!

Dante’s Divine Comedy describes Hell, Purgatory and Paradise.
CS Lewis wrote about heaven and hell in The Great Divorce.

The point being that we have a choice. We KNOW the options, and we have a choice.
Nineveh had been warned.
She was warned by Jonah, repented and was delivered.
As is human, I wonder if they thought, oh, he preached hell and damnation, and it didn’t happen…why believe it again?
Children do that, don’t they?
We do that, don’t we?

As I said in IBBS Nahum 1:2b-15
Some judgments we see here on earth…some, at a future time.

Romans 2:5 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
5 But because of your hardness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath, when God’s righteous judgment is revealed.

We can store up the wrath of God…because we continue in hardness and unrepentant hearts. Are we even aware of this storing up? If not, our consciences are seared, and that’s a very sad situation.  Until then, it’s our choice.

I choose repentance!
And I choose to believe that it is an ongoing effort to maintain my heart right before God.
It is MY choice.
It is MY effort.
It is MY sacrifice on behalf of Him who sacrificed His live for me.
To be clear, I’m not talking about works here…I’m talking about relationship.

In IBBS Jonah 1 I shared part of my story, when I did NOT do what God wanted me to do…and I believe that I put myself in the path of judgement. To be honest, I’m glad that I did not have to wait for years and years and generations to see the hand of discipline upon me, and to help to turn my head back around. And this also speaks to the difference between judgement and discipline.

Hebrews 12 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, so that you won’t grow weary and lose heart. 4 In struggling against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons:
My son, do not take the Lord’s discipline lightly
or faint when you are reproved by Him,
6 for the Lord disciplines the one He loves
and punishes every son He receives.

There is a struggle against sin…
There is a struggle to believe that the future prophecies will come to pass.
But God has given us several examples in the old testament to prepare us to not grow weary!

And God promises to restore “that which the canker-worm has eaten”… read Joel 2.
God will fight for his people, and restore the blessings to them/us.
In IBBS Joel 2, I shared my concerns for our world/country right now. This is an application for NOW.

Back to Nahum:
Nahum 2:3-15

This is something to read, holding in your heart that this what God does to His enemies, and to those that enslave his children. Think of this as God’s wrath against the devil and his fallen angels.

Nahum 3

4 Because of the continual prostitution of the prostitute,
the attractive mistress of sorcery,
who betrays nations by her prostitution
and clans by her witchcraft,

This sounds very much like

Revelation 21:8 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
8 But the cowards, unbelievers,[a] vile, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars—their share will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”

For the history,from a ‘unbiased’ view, I give you Wikipedia!
Nineveh
Assyria
Sennacherib

In Exodus, we see how God delivered judgement upon the pharaoh that enslaved the Hebrews.
I’ve done a little bit of research. If you don’t believe the Bible is the inerrant word of God, then, you might believe the archaeological studies that say that there’s no way that the Exodus happened.

For completion…Wikipedia shares two pages
The Book of Exodus
Exodus

The archaeologists say that there is no evidence.
That’s what they said for years about Nineveh in Assyria.

Archaeology is starting to confirm the Bible, but faith does not need that.
Hebrews 11:1

I’m going to place my faith in God!
And, in the unbelievable possibility that it is a parable for us, I still choose not to be enslaved to sin!
BTW, Jesus spoke of Moses…I believe Jesus!

Could you comment about how this speaks to you? How do you see Nahum applying to your life?

Hi!
My hope in the midst of despair and my joy in the face of depression is because of my relationship with Jesus Christ. If you do not have one, or are not sure you will join him in heaven, please check out these links.

Thanks for joining me in this journey,
In His hands and under His wings,
~Christi
Ps 63:7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

“The Lord does not give me rules, but He makes His standard very clear.
If my relationship to Him is that of love, I will do what He says without hesitation.
If I hesitate, it is because I love someone I have placed in competition with Him, namely, myself.” – from My Utmost for His highest

Copyrights and Legal-eze
There are many organizations that support children and families. Here are ones that we are blessed to be a part of. Please consider sponsoring a child – the life you change could be your own.

Itty Bitty Bible Study – Nahum 1:2- 15

Nahum

My thoughts for the Itty Bitty Bible Study group on Facebook. (join if you’d like to get these in fb!) The conversation starts Monday, August 20.

Nahum 1 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Nahum 1:2
The Lord is a jealous and avenging God;
the Lord takes vengeance
and is fierce in wrath.
The Lord takes vengeance against His foes;
He is furious with His enemies.

I talked in IBBS Nahum 1:2 about God being a Jealous God.
I talked about God being an Avenging God in IBBS Nahum 2b.

Now, I will attempt to understand how the rest of Nahum applies to us in 2018.

Nahum 1 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
1 The oracle concerning Nineveh. The book of the vision of Nahum the Elkoshite.

2 The Lord is a jealous and avenging God;
the Lord takes vengeance
and is fierce in wrath.
The Lord takes vengeance against His foes;
He is furious with His enemies.

This explains with whom God is angry, and to whom he focuses his wrath!

Deuteronomy 7:10 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
10 But He directly pays back[a] and destroys those who hate Him. He will not hesitate to directly pay back[b] the one who hates Him.

Yet the following gives us a picture of God on the believer’s behalf, and the reason that we want to be RIGHT WITH GOD:

Nahum 1:3
3 The Lord is slow to anger but great in power;

IT IS FOLLOWED BY A WARNING!:

the Lord will never leave the guilty unpunished.‘

Nahum seems to be quoting:

Numbers 14:18 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
18 The Lord is slow to anger and rich in faithful love, forgiving wrongdoing and rebellion. But He will not leave the guilty unpunished, bringing the consequences of the fathers’ wrongdoing on the children to the third and fourth generation.

THIS IS GOD!

  • slow to anger
  • rich in faithful love
  • forgiving wrong doing and rebellion

THIS IS ALSO GOD!

  • will not leave guilty unpunished
  • bring consequences….of the fathers sins on the children…to the third and fourth generation.

Deuteronomy 5:9 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
9 You must not bow down to them or worship them, because I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the fathers’ sin to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me,

There is a requirement for God’s blessing….

John 3:36 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
36 The one who believes in the Son has eternal life,
but the one who refuses to believe in the Son will not see life; instead, the wrath of God remains on him.

It’s all about our choice! Which side do we want to find ourselves on? Back in Nahum 1:2b, we talked about the Lord takes vengeance against his foes…furious with his enemies. I don’t want to be found to be an enemy of God!

Romans 8:7 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
7 For the mind-set of the flesh is hostile to God because it does not submit itself to God’s law, for it is unable to do so.

To be more clear:

Romans 8:7 King James Version (KJV)
7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

The carnal mind, the flesh serving and focused mind is an enemy to God – but only because it CANNOT turn to God…which is WHY we need to become new creatures!

2 Corinthians 5:17 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away, and look, new things[a] have come.

God made a way so that we could choose NOT to be his enemy!

Our God is an AWESOME God…and we need to know both sides of him! We need to understand WHY there is a requirement to believe, to obey, to honor, to worship….why we need a relationship with God through Jesus Christ!

Romans 6:23 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

That says it in a nutshell…it’s the plan of salvation, but more importantly, the NEED for salvation.

Nahum 1:3-5 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
3…His path is in the whirlwind and storm,
and clouds are the dust beneath His feet.
4 He rebukes the sea so that it dries up,
and He makes all the rivers run dry.
Bashan and Carmel wither;
even the flower of Lebanon withers.
5 The mountains quake before Him,
and the hills melt;
the earth trembles at His presence—
the world and all who live in it.

Worship break!
Our God is an Awesome God!

many forget this part of this song!

Once we see part of the awesomeness of God…
Then, the warning!!!

Nahum 1:6 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
6 Who can withstand His indignation?
Who can endure His burning anger?
His wrath is poured out like fire,
even rocks are shattered before Him.

As I said above, we do NOT want to be his enemies…and I’m trying to make it clear how we can become his enemies, and how can be part of his family!

Psalm 2:12 King James Version (KJV)
12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.

Nehemiah 9:16-17 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
16 But our ancestors acted arrogantly;
they became stiff-necked and did not listen to Your commands.
17 They refused to listen
and did not remember Your wonders
You performed among them.
They became stiff-necked and appointed a leader
to return to their slavery in Egypt.[a]
But You are a forgiving God,
gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and rich in faithful love,
and You did not abandon them.

Even in the midst of His people being rebellious, He still offers forgiveness…for repentance!

2 Chronicles 7:14 speaks to people that are CALLED BY HIS NAME! on the Bible hub link, you can read it in ANY version you would like!

I prefer Amplified:

2 Chronicles 7:14 Amplified Bible (AMP)
14 and My people, who are called by My Name, humble themselves, and pray and seek (crave, require as a necessity) My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear [them] from heaven, and forgive their sin and heal their land.

Amplified Bible (AMP)
Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

THIS IS WRITTEN TO GOD’S PEOPLE…NOT THE UNBELIEVERS!!!!
This is OUR responsibility! Not just to ourselves, but to our communities, our families, our churches, our states, our nations and our world! We are the change that God places in this world!

Back to Nahum.
Even in the midst of describing the destruction of Nineveh, it’s as if God doesn’t want us overwhelmed by His vengeance, He wants us to remember the other side of Him! The side that HIS children enjoy!

Nahum 1:7 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
7 The Lord is good,
a stronghold in a day of distress;
He cares for those who take refuge in Him.

We can look at Psalm 91 – and remember specifically verses 1-2

Psalm 91:1-2 King James Version (KJV)
91 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

We can read Psalm 46 starting with verse 1!

Psalm 46:1-2 King James Version (KJV)
46 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

Back to Nahum:

Nahum 1:8-10 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
8 But He will completely destroy Nineveh[d]
with an overwhelming flood,
and He will chase His enemies into darkness.
9 Whatever you plot against the Lord,
He will bring it to complete destruction;
oppression will not rise up a second time.
10 For they will be consumed
like entangled thorns,
like the drink of a drunkard
and like straw that is fully dry.

God is in control…We who believe KNOW this.
Some judgments we see here on earth…some, at a future time.

Romans 2:5 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
5 But because of your hardness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath, when God’s righteous judgment is revealed.

KJV says “hardness and impenitent hearts”
one says “unwillingness to change.”
many others say “stubbornness.”
This concerns me because of THIS verse:

1 Samuel 15:23 King James Version (KJV)
23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king.

Bible Hub gives you other versions in which to read 1 Samuel 15:23 – but the warning is still very similar!

  • Hard hearts
  • Stubborn hearts
  • impenitent hearts
  • rebellious hearts

IT’S A HEART ISSUE!

Let’s compare Egypt, Nahum’s prophecy of deliverance for Judah, and Salvation:

Enslaved

  • Exodus – enslaved to Pharoah
  • Nahum – enslaved to Sennecharib and Assyria
  • Salvation – enslaved to Sin

Cruelty

  • Exodus – forced to work in labor camps
  • Nahum – Sennecharib was hated for his cruelty, even by his allies
  • Salvation – we are cruelly kept from peace, hope, and joy, used for his purposes

In Darkness

  • Exodus – the plague of darkness descended, but they were in darkness of hopelessness
  • Nahum – The darkness of the constant fear
  • Salvation – rescued out of the darkness Colossians 1:13

Warnings

  • Exodus – the 10 plagues
  • Nahum – Nineveh warned by Jonah(you can read about Jonah starting with IBBS Jonah Introduction)
  • Salvation – Pricks of conscience – Like Saul/Paul in Acts 9:5

Sacrifice

  • Exodus – First born of all, and the Passover lamb
  • Nahum – Sennacherib – his sons killed him(Wikipedia)
  • Salvation – God’s son, Jesus(I wrote a bit about Jesus being the Passover Lamb in Advent day 12 and the New Covenant

Slavery Broken – Shackles broken

  • Exodus – they left!
  • Nahum – Judah delivered – Nahum 1:13
  • Salvation – whom the son sets free is fee indeed! John 8:36

Worship Break!

Repentance

Light

  • Exodus – Light in the darkness during the plague of darkness
  • Nahum – the promises from the prophets
  • Salvation – called out of darkness into HIS wonderful light – 1 Peter 2:9

Separated from the Enemy

  • Exodus – splitting of the red sea – enemies destroyed
  • Nahum – Civil war caused the Assyrians to be weakened(from Wikipedia)
  • Salvation – old has passed, all things made new 2 Corinthians 5:17

Responsibility

What is my point in all of this?
The Bible is ONE story – the story about how God created us to enjoy HIS presence, we messed up, like a parent he has to discipline us, but he calls us back to HIM! and when we cannot make it, which none of us can, HE made the way!

Let’s finish up chapter one.

Nahum 1:11 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
11 One has gone out from you,[a]
who plots evil against Yahweh,
and is a wicked counselor.

Not all counselors are good ones…some are wolves in sheep’s clothing….

Nahum 1:12-13
12 This is what the Lord says:
Though they are strong[h] and numerous,
they will still be mowed down,
and he[i] will pass away.
Though I have afflicted you,[j]
I will afflict you no longer.
13 For I will now break off his yoke from you
and tear off your shackles.

The Promise of deliverance in the midst of an overwhelming enemy!

Nahum 1:14
14 The Lord has issued an order concerning you:
There will be no offspring
to carry on your name.[k]
I will eliminate the carved idol and cast image
from the house of your gods;
I will prepare your grave,
for you are contemptible.

Complete annihilation of the enemy…makes me think of Revelation!!!

Nahum 1:15 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
15 [l]Look to the mountains—
the feet of one bringing good news
and proclaiming peace!
Celebrate your festivals, Judah;
fulfill your vows.
For the wicked one will never again
march through you;
he will be entirely wiped out.

2 Chronicles 20:15 King James Version (KJV)
15 And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the Lord unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s.

Read Exodus 14:14 in all of it’s versions…the LORD will fight for US! for ME! for YOU!

Psalm 46:10 King James Version (KJV)
10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

No matter what a mess we have made of our lives, God can straighten it out.
No matter how big the enemy, God can take them down.
No matter how long the trial, God can see us through!

Hi!
My hope in the midst of despair and my joy in the face of depression is because of my relationship with Jesus Christ. If you do not have one, or are not sure you will join him in heaven, please check out these links.

Thanks for joining me in this journey,
In His hands and under His wings,
~Christi
Ps 63:7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

“The Lord does not give me rules, but He makes His standard very clear.
If my relationship to Him is that of love, I will do what He says without hesitation.
If I hesitate, it is because I love someone I have placed in competition with Him, namely, myself.” – from My Utmost for His highest

Copyrights and Legal-eze
There are many organizations that support children and families. Here are ones that we are blessed to be a part of. Please consider sponsoring a child – the life you change could be your own.

2018 Lent day 3 – 2/24/2023

Lent Week One

We have a facebook group set up to follow and discuss – 40 days of Lent!

Lent Day 3 – What can I give?

What Can I give Him? a sweet version!
Broken and Poured out – Steve Green

Scripture
The Story of “Mary” needs to be seen from all four gospels in my opinion.

From freebibleimages

John

John 12:1-8 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
The Anointing at Bethany
12 Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany where Lazarus was, the one Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 So they gave a dinner for Him there; Martha was serving them, and Lazarus was one of those reclining at the table with Him. 3 Then Mary took a pound of fragrant oil—pure and expensive nard—anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped His feet with her hair. So the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil.
(snip)
7 Jesus answered, “Leave her alone; she has kept it for the day of My burial. 8 For you always have the poor with you, but you do not always have Me.”

Mark

Mark 14:8-9 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
8 She has done what she could; she has anointed My body in advance for burial. 9 I assure you: Wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told in memory of her.”

Luke

Luke 7:36-50 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Much Forgiveness, Much Love
36 Then one of the Pharisees invited Him to eat with him. He entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table.
37 And a woman in the town who was a sinner found out that Jesus was reclining at the table in the Pharisee’s house. She brought an alabaster jar of fragrant oil
38 and stood behind Him at His feet, weeping, and began to wash His feet with her tears. She wiped His feet with the hair of her head, kissing them and anointing them with the fragrant oil.

Then, the heart of the pharisee is exposed!

39 When the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he said to himself, “This man, if He were a prophet, would know who and what kind of woman this is who is touching Him—she’s a sinner!”
40 Jesus replied to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.”
“Teacher,” he said, “say it.”
41 “A creditor had two debtors. One owed 500 denarii, and the other 50. 42 Since they could not pay it back, he graciously forgave them both. So, which of them will love him more?”
43 Simon answered, “I suppose the one he forgave more.”
“You have judged correctly,” He told him.
44 Turning to the woman, He said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave Me no water for My feet, but she, with her tears, has washed My feet and wiped them with her hair.
45 You gave Me no kiss, but she hasn’t stopped kissing My feet since I came in.
46 You didn’t anoint My head with olive oil, but she has anointed My feet with fragrant oil.
47 Therefore I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; that’s why she loved much. But the one who is forgiven little, loves little.”
48 Then He said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”

This one is a little different – pouring the oil on his head…and it’s not at the house of Mary, Martha and Lazarus…though, it is at the house of Simon…one who had a serious skin issue…is this the same Simon that Luke tells us is the pharisee that has an issue with her gift?
Matthew

Matthew 26:6-13

Devotion:
1. FORGIVEN! Whether this is two women, or both Mary – the woman was a sinner. Even more important, she was a forgiven sinner!
Jesus talks about how much does one love? Gratitude depends on the value placed upon the gift. Outwardly, this woman was a prostitute, a very outward sinner. Some say this could be Mary Magdalene…I don’t know. That’s not the point of my devotion. Inwardly, she was an adoring follower, and that love demanded action!

2. The cost – Luke 14:25-35, Luke 18 – the rich young ruler, Phil 3:7-8 – Paul.
Jesus tells us to count the cost…to give everything. This woman gave probably her most expensive possession.  I think perfumed oil is probably a tool of the trade of a prostitute.(Proverbs 7:17). This woman gave up her livelihood to anoint Jesus in appreciation for what HE had done for her!
This could also be a statement that she was never going to go back into that business again…a statement of a life change. Not easy for a woman in Jesus’ day that has no other options! She gave it ALL!

I’ve been asked “should we tithe now, or is that old testament?” My response?
“Oh, no, we don’t tithe 10%, because yes, that is Old Testament. Now, we have to give 100%! Now we know it’s ALL His!
I thought this verse fit here very nicely!

1 John 2:15-16 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
A Warning about the World
15 Do not love the world or the things that belong to the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him. 16 For everything that belongs to the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride in one’s lifestyle—is not from the Father, but is from the world.

3. Humility and Gratitude.
This woman, known to be a prostitute and used to haveing control over the men, humbles herself before Jesus, not only uses her expensive perfume, but BREAKS the alabaster jar that contains it. She is so intent on showing her gratitude to Jesus, she can’t even wait for the oil to run out! Is she aware of those around her making comments? OF COURSE! She is used to being ridiculed in public (possibly by the very same ones that came to her in secret). She doesn’t care. She just wants to be at Jesus’ feet, and thank Him, and give him all that she has.
Remember that Jesus showed humility by washing the feet of the disciples in the Upper Room. This is the position of a servant, who is considered less than human. This woman, in her gratitude, put herself in this HUMBLE position.

I am drawn to all the women named Mary, because my first name is Mary. One thing that I have drawn from all of them is to say YES to no matter what God calls you to do, no matter how much it costs, and no matter how others respond.

  1. What does this devotion speak to you? Are you a sinner and need to come to Christ? Wiki How gives a very clear understanding of How to Accept Jesus.

2. Are there possessions in your life that are more important than Jesus? I don’t think that Jesus was saying that everyone has to sell all that they have to come follow him, when he spoke to the Rich Young Ruler(Luke 18) – he could see his heart. What is in YOUR heart? Matthew 10:37-39

3. How can you show Jesus Gratitude for all HE has done for you? here’s an idea:

And, here’s a sweet song….
Broken Beautiful by Ellie Holcomb

 

Thanks for joining me in this journey,
In His hands and under His wings,
~Christi
Ps 63:7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

“The Lord does not give me rules, but He makes His standard very clear.
If my relationship to Him is that of love, I will do what He says without hesitation.
If I hesitate, it is because I love someone I have placed in competition with Him, namely, myself.” – from My Utmost for His highest

Copyrights and Legal-eze
There are many organizations that support children and families. Here are ones that we are blessed to be a part of. Please consider sponsoring a child – the life you change could be your own.

Itty Bitty Bible Study – Jonah 3

My thoughts for the Itty Bitty Bible Study group on Facebook. (join if you’d like to get these in fb!) The conversation started Monday, February 5th.

Jonah 3

YET 40 DAYS AND NINIVEH SHALL BE OVERTHROWN!

 

NLT says DESTROYED
CSV says DEMOLISHED

I admit that I don’t know greek or hebrew, therefore I rely on Strongs, Vines or other references.
The BlueLetterBible has this to say about this word:

hâphak, haw-fak’; a primitive root; to turn about or over; by implication, to change, overturn, return, pervert:—× become, change, come, be converted, give, make (a bed), overthrow (-turn), perverse, retire, tumble, turn (again, aside, back, to the contrary, every way).

There’s one word here that gets my attention…RETURN…and BLB’s Bible usage shows this:

to turn, overthrow, overturn

(Qal)

to overturn, overthrow
to turn, turn about, turn over, turn around
to change, transform

(Niphal)
to turn oneself, turn, turn back
to change oneself
to be perverse
to be turned, be turned over, be changed, be turned against
to be reversed
to be overturned, be overthrown
to be upturned

(Hithpael)

to transform oneself
to turn this way and that, turn every way

I can’t help but see those as words that could, in English, be used for repentance!

Jonah3:5
5 And the people of Nineveh believed God. They called for a fast and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them to the least of them.

To me, this is one of the greatest evidences that it is NEVER too late to repent and turn to GOD! GOD HAD PRONOUNCED JUDGEMENT! and He heard their cry! Isn’t that exciting???!!!

EVEN THE KING REPENTED! There’s hope for the government leadership of any country!

Jonah 3:6-9
6 The word reached the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, removed his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. 7 And he issued a proclamation and published through Nineveh, “By the decree of the king and his nobles: Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything. Let them not feed or drink water, 8 but let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and let them call out mightily to God. Let everyone turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands. 9 Who knows? God may turn and relent and turn from his fierce anger, so that we may not perish.”

Jonah 3:10
10 When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them, and he did not do it.

Oh Thank God for being a merciful God!
Here, I’m going to compare myself to the Ninevites…I have never been that sinful…so, that helps me to know that NO MATTER HOW BADLY one is going the wrong way – GOD WILL HEAR THE PRAYER OF REPENTANCE!

My story –
While I was in the hospital, I attended church. I have no idea why, as I look back, other than God was keeping my heart warm…I was keeping it lukewarm! Friends would come and take me to church and I can see the little chapel that help the church services in my mind’s eye. I don’t remember if I spent time in the word…I’m sure that would have brought about much needed repentance, but, I just don’t remember it. In fact, I have not much memory of what transpired during those times in the hospital.

In the Psych Ward, I was the only female, dressed in men’s PJ’s with nothing on under (so I could not harm myself with my undergarments, I think). I know I talked about Jesus, and I’m appalled now as to what kind of witness I was(not). I know that there were times that I was talking about Jesus, I believed in Him, still, and I considered myself a follower of Christ. I believed I was good enough, I suppose. I had not turned my heart back to the Lord yet. I had not chosen to obey. My life had been changed from being a sailor to being a civilian. Even so, in the face of this ‘judgement’ or consequence upon my life, I did not repent, or turn around. I just accepted this discharge from God’s hand as inevitable.

There is a principle that repentance brings about evidences.  There was no evidence of repentance in my life. I am saddened when I look back upon my life at that point.

THE KING of Nineveh heard the words of Jonah and declared a fast! in sackclothes and ashes! HE showed evidences of repentance!

John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus’ ministry by saying:

Matthew 3:2-3 New King James Version (NKJV)
2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying:

“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make His paths straight.’”

The Lord spoke to Solomon:

2 Chronicles 7:14 King James Version (KJV)
14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

verse 14 is a promise that follows God’s judgement in verse 13:

2 Chronicles 7:13-14 King James Version (KJV)
13 If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people;
14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

God gave Cain an opprtunity to repent:

Genesis 4:6-7 English Standard Version (ESV)
6 The Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? 7 If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it.”

Instead of turning, Cain took the life of his brother Abel …the first murder.
Then, he lied to God…an even greater sin, and he was cast away from his family.
These were evidences to the contrary of repentance.

When God came walking through the Garden, he called out to Adam and Eve. Where are you?
Adam confessed his nakedness – but not his sin. When given a chance to repent, he points his finger to Eve AND God!

Genesis 3:12 The man said, “The woman whom you gave to be with me, she gave me fruit of the tree, and I ate.”

They were cast out of the garden.

We’re no better:

Romans 3:23 English Standard Version (ESV)
23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

BECAUSE:

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

Peter announced on the day of Pentecost that repentance is part of the salvation process:

Acts 2:38 English Standard Version (ESV)
38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Got questions has a great article on Repentance and Salvation!

Through the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ…we have a promise!

1 John 1:5-10
5 This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
1 John 2: 1- 6
2 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 2 He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. 3 And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.

That last verse is speaking of evidences of repentance…walking in the same way Jesus walked…or at least trying to!

Dear James lets us know that:

James 5:14-16 English Standard Version (ESV)
14 Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.

REPENTANCE!
DELIVERANCE FROM JUDGEMENT!
GOD HEARS US!

These are the points that Jonah 3 speaks to me.

Have you recognized that your sins get in the way of your relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ?

Have you repented of your sins, put them under the blood of Jesus Christ, and asked Him to be the Lord of your life?

Got Questions has a great explanation on how to do just this, and know that you will spend eternal life with Jesus!

To be honest, while I know that my initial salvation was in 1969, in a little church across the street from my house, there have been other times in my life that I needed to repent of my path, and turn again to Christ. I didn’t get RE-saved – I just RE-dedicated my life to Christ. In my life, at least, repentance isn’t a one time deal! It’s a daily deal, sometimes hourly, do I dare admit there are times that it’s minute by minute? If we turn our hearts towards the Lord…well, I’ll let Isaiah say it!

Isaiah 55:6-7 King James Version (KJV)
6 Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:
7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.

And this beautiful promise:

Isaiah 55:1-3 King James Version (KJV)
55 1 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.
2 Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.
3 Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.

AND WE CAN BELIEVE:

Lamentations 3:22-23 English Standard Version (ESV)
22 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;[a]
his mercies never come to an end;
23 they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.

here’s some prayer and some comfort!
Create in me a clean heart

Next – Jonah 4
 

Thanks for joining me in this journey,
In His hands and under His wings,
~Christi
Ps 63:7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

“The Lord does not give me rules, but He makes His standard very clear.
If my relationship to Him is that of love, I will do what He says without hesitation.
If I hesitate, it is because I love someone I have placed in competition with Him, namely, myself.” – from My Utmost for His highest

Copyrights and Legal-eze
There are many organizations that support children and families. Here are ones that we are blessed to be a part of. Please consider sponsoring a child – the life you change could be your own.

Itty Bitty Bible Study – Jonah 2

My thoughts for the Itty Bitty Bible Study group on Facebook. (join if you’d like to get these in fb!) The conversation started Monday, February 5th.

Itty Bitty Bible Study – Jonah – introduction
Itty Bitty Bible Study – Jonah chapter 1

Jonah 2

Jonah is in the fish

Now, Jonah starts to pray.

It sounds like this:

Psalm 18:3-6 King James Version (KJV)
3 I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.
4 The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid.
5 The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me.
6 In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears.

and this:

Psalm 116 King James Version (KJV)
116 I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications.
2 Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live.
3 The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow.
4 Then called I upon the name of the Lord; O Lord, I beseech thee, deliver my soul.

Really, the whole of Psalm 116.

and this:

Psalm 34:4 King James Version (KJV)
4 I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.

Foxhole Prayers are NOT unusual.

More of my story:
I was laying in the Recruit Training Center infirmary – not able to put weight on my right leg. Everything was stark white…cold, antiseptic, lonely. Recruits don’t usually get sick, so, I was the only one there. Recruits are treated like non people, so I was ignored except when they needed to care for me. I don’t know if it was three days in there…or when, but I asked the Lord, why?….and he said “I told you not to go to the navy, but to go to college.”

yes, I know…but…

now, I’m paralyzed for all intents and purposes.
I knew that there was probably no way I was going to get out of the navy, or I was going to be sent home without completing boot camp….and, I still had not learned my lesson. what logical thing did I do? I negotiated with God.
“so, if you can work it out that they cannot find what is wrong with me, but they know that something is wrong with me, I can graduate with my unit, and they discharge me honorably, I’ll leave the Navy.”

As I read what I just wrote, I just cannot imagine how arrogant I was to negotiate with God! And this wasn’t like Abraham negotiating with God about how many it would take to save Sodom and Gomorrah. I am so thankful that God is a merciful God. Those folks in the infirmary don’t know how close they came to having God strike me dead, like any normal parent would have!

Within a few days, the anti-inflammatories took down the swelling, and I was able to walk again, though I was on pain meds. I had to do PT twice a day – running in the morning, then PT exercises in the evening, or PT with the unit, and running in the evening. I was scoring fine on everything, and I graduated with my unit.

Next stop was NTC San Diego – for Radioman school. I felt fine, I enjoyed my time as a sailor…going to bars, drinking, and having a great time. I aced my A school, and even caught the eye of my Chief Petty Officer. I was given a scholar promotion…and chosen to be the first female radio shack operator on an actual IN SERVICE ship(rather than on land or a supply ship). I had forgotten all about my deal with God, and honestly, I thought he had, too. Then My leg started hurting again. I went to sick call. again and again.
They did multiple tests – one, the dyd couldn’t show the discs because of the wideness of the space between my cord and bones. The other, they couldn’t complete the test because I had an anaphylactic reaction to the dye, and they had to pump me full of ephedrine to bring me back…the dye had not reached the area they were aiming to view.
Xrays were non conclusive.
The nuero surgeon KNEW something was wrong, and wanted to open up my back so he could see.
But, GOD.…
While I was spending months in Balboa naval hospital because of my leg and lower back, and one month in convalescent leave (where a chiropractor was able to xray my low back while standing, and found five discs bulging…and provide traction that enabled me to ambulate with crutches), there were other things going on of which I was unaware.
I said no to exploratory surgery…so, I was sent to the psych ward.
They harassed me until I said, FINE – GET ME OUT OF THE NAVY!

I was given a honorable discharge – stating that I was never to be reconsidered for enlistment. And, I was discharged at 11 months…which meant no education benefits. My medical papers disappeared for 30 years(the typical pattern was that the person carried their med papers back to their station, and took them home with them…but, I was told that they had to finish the papers).

I was dumber, or slower than Jonah….I didn’t go home. I stayed in San Diego, living with two other sailors, taking in laundry, and being a beach bum. I knew God had kept his end of the bargain. I was out of the Navy. And yet…I was not sure of my end of the bargain!

I’ll write about that next week.

Jonah prayed!

One commentary says that Jonah died and was raised from the dead…I don’t know that I quite agree with that…but I’m sure he was close to death…or was wishing for death!

7 When my soul fainted within me I remembered the Lord: and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple.
8 They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy.
9 But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the Lord.

When My soul fainted within me…oh how I know that feeling!
Often, I know that feeling.
And still – I am only delivered by remembering the Lord!

The Amplified doesn’t add much –

7
“When my soul was fainting within me,
I remembered the Lord,
And my prayer came to You,
Into Your holy temple.
8
“Those who regard and follow worthless idols
Turn away from their [living source of] mercy and lovingkindness.
9
“But [as for me], I will sacrifice to You
With the voice of thanksgiving;
I shall pay that which I have vowed.
Salvation is from the Lord!”

What it does do, is explain part of verse 8 – following worthless idols.
The worthless idol I was following was myself – thinking I knew better than God.
The worthless idol that Jonah was following was thinking he was able to get away from God…Kind of putting himself in a position of more power than God.

God said Go – Jonah said NO.
God said Go – Christi said No.
If I say that God is my God, and I say no to him…is he really my God?
Who I my God?
If I think that I have the right to contradict the God of creation…oh wait…someone did that….SATAN!

Satan decided that he wanted to call the shots…which meant, he wanted to be Like God…equal to God…above God?
Got Questions has a great set of articles on the fall of Satan.

The scary thing to me is that I was acting just like Satan!

Back to Jonah!

Jonah 2:9 AMP
But I with the voice of thanksgiving
will sacrifice to you;
what I have vowed I will pay.
Salvation belongs to the Lord!”

A voice of thanksgiving…in the midst of trials! Great point! and, it can sometimes be a sacrifice!

Steps of turning….
1. Jonah recognized he was underthe wrath of God – and repents.

Romans 1:18 – 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.

2. He avoided the trap of ingratitude that God hates:

Romans 1:21 21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.

3. Jonah remembered what he’d vowed when he became a follower….with a voice of thanksgiving…I will sacrifice to you.
How could he sacrifice in the belly of a fish? This was him putting his heart on the altar…sacrificing his fear, or his control(as if he had any) – he was sacrificing himself.

Psalm 116:17 I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the name of the LORD.

4. and he agreed to do God’s will – “what I have vowed, I will pay.”

Psalm 116:18 I will pay my vows to the LORD in the presence of all his people,

5. and he declares SALVATION belongs to THE LORD! He recognized and declared his salvation is from God – NO ONE ELSE!

Romans 10:9-10 English Standard Version (ESV)
9 because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.
And then God spoke…and the fish obeyed…and lo and behold, Jonah is vomited up right where he needs to be!

Here is where Jonah and My stories start to separate…but there are still similarities. I’ll tell you more when I write about chapter 3.

The story so far, in my artwork:

I hope you are enjoying my little artistic additions…I hope to scan it in at the end and have a decent copy!

So – foxhole prayers – have you prayed any?

Have you needed to repent for saying No to God, and turn around to go the other way?

Isn’t that the perfect illustration of Salvation? We tell God no, until we come to the end of ourselves, and when we pray, he’s right there, ready to save us!

Let me know what you have seen in Jonah 1 & 2 in the comments!
See you next week for Jonah 3!

 

Thanks for joining me in this journey,
In His hands and under His wings,
~Christi
Ps 63:7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

“The Lord does not give me rules, but He makes His standard very clear.
If my relationship to Him is that of love, I will do what He says without hesitation.
If I hesitate, it is because I love someone I have placed in competition with Him, namely, myself.” – from My Utmost for His highest

I want to thank

for the ability to search the Bible online.

Some artwork is from me – ChristArtist. It is copyrighted – by me. Please do not share it without my permission. The same goes for my written work.
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Soon, we will have a gallery for the art I have created by the hand of God.

There are many organizations that support children and families. Here are ones that we are blessed to be a part of. Please consider sponsoring a child – the life you change could be your own.