FAITH
We began our study marveling at the faith of Abraham. We observed him choose trust ... choose to believe God and to take Him at His word. We watched Abraham obey God. The faith of Abraham teaches us the place of obedience in our lives. It is necessary for the one who longs to walk with God. We read of Jesus stating this principle in John 14. He says, "Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him." (John 14:21) And in verse 23 He says, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching."
Do you want to walk with God? Do you want to walk in faith? Then obedience matters. It's not optional. It matters everyday of our lives. It matters today ... even in the smallest details.
We closed our study with Joseph. We observed him choose integrity and forgiveness. We watched him choose to walk rightly before God even in the harshest and most difficult of circumstances. And then we marveled at his ability and willingness to forgive. When Jesus teaches us how to pray, He includes this sentence: "Forgive us our sins as we also have forgiven those who sin against us." (Matthew 6:12)
Do you want to walk with God? Do you want to walk in faith? Then forgiveness matters. It's not optional. It matters everyday of our lives. It matters today ... in both the small and the large circumstances. We forgive because God forgives. We forgive because we have been forgiven. How dare we hold grudges against those who have hurt us when our God has released us from any guilt over the hurt we have caused?! Recognize that forgiveness is a process ... it is a decision ... you make the decision in your mind first ... the emotions follow later. It takes faith to forgive. Faith that God knows what He is talking about when He tells us that we need to do this. It takes trusting that God has our highest good in mind when He tells us to becomes 'forgivers' and to accept His forgiveness.
FAITH
I have loved walking through the lives of these two great men with you. I love the study of Genesis. There is so much to learn about God ... about people ... about myself. I want to close our study with words from Naomi Rosenblatt from her book, "Wrestling with Angels". She closes her book on Genesis with these words:
"So ends the book of Genesis. But as its name implies, Genesis is merely the beginning of a much longer story that extends over thirty-nine books of the Hebrew Bible - and over all the intervening generations connecting Abraham's family to our own. So long as life continues on this planet, the human drama will renew itself in every generation. So long as we persist in beginning, the creation continues. ... There are two powerful and interdependent calls that resound throughout Genesis: 'Go forth' and 'Fear not'. 'Go forth' addresses the active dimension of our lives. 'Fear not' addresses our spiritual dimension. ... Go forth and fear not. But how? By always reminding ourselves that we are created in God's image, that we are endowed with intellect and free will, compassion and responsibility, conscience and creativity. That what we do matters. That our life, and all life, is infinitely precious.
Go forth ... and fear not. ...
And the story begins again."
P.S. Our next study will begin in January. We will talk a stroll through the gospel of John and draw closer in relationship with our Lord, Jesus. Join us ...
November 16, 2010
November 11, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 10 Day 3
Read Genesis 49:29 - 50:26
Jacob's work is done. His days on this earth were at an end. He knew it. And so he "drew his feet up into the bed and breathed his last" (49:33) I love the way scripture describes what happened next ... "and he was gathered to his people." His body will be buried. And since he is living in Egypt, it is done according to Egyptian custom. But there is something so much stronger in the words - gathered to his people. Henry Morris describes is like this: "Jacob was not merely to be buried with the bodies of his people, but he was to join them in their life beyond the grave, awaiting the coming of Messiah and the great resurrection day."
Jacob is now - with his people. His final testimony to his offspring has to do with their returning to the land promised to them through Abraham and Isaac. He reminds them that, while prospering in Egypt, it is not their home. We must not forget that truth ourselves! This place is not our home. It's all we know and so we often cling to it harder than is wise. Remind yourself again today ... there is a promised land that is ours ... a kingdom where we DO belong ... a kingdom we have only a foretaste of among God's people here ... THAT is home. And one day ...
Jacob's burial processional was quite dramatic! The description of the entourage is staggering. What a journey Jacob has had during his lifetime. What a transformation from a deceiving young man, manipulated by so many women, in the pit of despair over the loss of treasured son ... to a true patriarch among God's people. He had wrestled with God earlier in his life and stated then that he would not turn loose until he was blessed. Well ... Jacob didn't turn loose ... and God blessed him.
It is interesting to note how the brothers reacted after Jacob was gone. Their guilt has not been assuaged. Their fear resurfaces. And the family pattern returns - create a lie to cover yourself! Maybe Jacob had really told them to say those things to Joseph ... but I don't think so. I think they made it up. And we witness another emotional scene. Family damage runs deep. Joseph assures them again that he holds no bitterness toward them. He repeats how God has used him to bring good and to sustain life. Perhaps - now - the brothers can be free from the guilt of their sin. I love Psalm 32:5:
The book of Genesis closes with the very understated death of Joseph. He, too, has said to take his bones out of Egypt. Isn't it interesting to notice that Joseph went to Egypt at 17 years old and lived his entire life there. But, once again, he knew it was not his home. And so - the book of Genesis closes - but the story continues ...
About 400 years pass and we read in Exodus 13:19: You see ... the story continues ...
There will be one more post for this series as we wrap up our study. Be thinking about lessons that have been meaningful to you from the study of these two great patriarchs ... Abraham and Joseph.
Jacob's work is done. His days on this earth were at an end. He knew it. And so he "drew his feet up into the bed and breathed his last" (49:33) I love the way scripture describes what happened next ... "and he was gathered to his people." His body will be buried. And since he is living in Egypt, it is done according to Egyptian custom. But there is something so much stronger in the words - gathered to his people. Henry Morris describes is like this: "Jacob was not merely to be buried with the bodies of his people, but he was to join them in their life beyond the grave, awaiting the coming of Messiah and the great resurrection day."
Jacob is now - with his people. His final testimony to his offspring has to do with their returning to the land promised to them through Abraham and Isaac. He reminds them that, while prospering in Egypt, it is not their home. We must not forget that truth ourselves! This place is not our home. It's all we know and so we often cling to it harder than is wise. Remind yourself again today ... there is a promised land that is ours ... a kingdom where we DO belong ... a kingdom we have only a foretaste of among God's people here ... THAT is home. And one day ...
Jacob's burial processional was quite dramatic! The description of the entourage is staggering. What a journey Jacob has had during his lifetime. What a transformation from a deceiving young man, manipulated by so many women, in the pit of despair over the loss of treasured son ... to a true patriarch among God's people. He had wrestled with God earlier in his life and stated then that he would not turn loose until he was blessed. Well ... Jacob didn't turn loose ... and God blessed him.
It is interesting to note how the brothers reacted after Jacob was gone. Their guilt has not been assuaged. Their fear resurfaces. And the family pattern returns - create a lie to cover yourself! Maybe Jacob had really told them to say those things to Joseph ... but I don't think so. I think they made it up. And we witness another emotional scene. Family damage runs deep. Joseph assures them again that he holds no bitterness toward them. He repeats how God has used him to bring good and to sustain life. Perhaps - now - the brothers can be free from the guilt of their sin. I love Psalm 32:5:
Then I acknowledge my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD" - and you forgave the guilt of my sin.Only God can remove the stain of guilt. Only God can offer you a clean conscience through the blood of Jesus. Let Him ... believe Him ... He can and will take away the guilt.
The book of Genesis closes with the very understated death of Joseph. He, too, has said to take his bones out of Egypt. Isn't it interesting to notice that Joseph went to Egypt at 17 years old and lived his entire life there. But, once again, he knew it was not his home. And so - the book of Genesis closes - but the story continues ...
About 400 years pass and we read in Exodus 13:19: You see ... the story continues ...
"Moses took the bones of Joseph with him because Joseph had made the sons of Israel swear an oath. He had said, 'God will surely come to your aid, and then you must carry my bones up with you from this place.'"
There will be one more post for this series as we wrap up our study. Be thinking about lessons that have been meaningful to you from the study of these two great patriarchs ... Abraham and Joseph.
November 10, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 10 Day 2
Read Genesis 49.
We continue to listen to Jacob on his deathbed as he passes on "blessing" to his offspring, his twelve sons. We observed in chapter 48 that Joseph received the traditional 'double portion' of the first born. This was done by including both of Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, as direct descendants of Jacob. In chapter 49, Jacob speaks to each of his sons.
As you read the comments, one might question whether or not some of them sound much like 'blessings'. And it is true that some harsh things are said. But think with me for a moment ... can something said that sounds harsh be a warning? And - if a warning - is it not a blessing? It seems that Jacob, recognizing certain character traits and tendencies in his sons, gives each a preview of what will be grief and what will bring joy.
Let's make a few observations ...
To Reuben (vs. 3 - 4). Reuben was the actual first-born. That came with privileges - privileges that he obviously did not honor. His sin of making love to Jacob's 'wife' Bilhah brought dishonor on him and dramatically effected his legacy. Perhaps it was an undisciplined, lustful character that Jacob called "turbulent". Lessons? Sin has consequences. Of course, unconfessed sin outside of the grace of God has eternal consequences. But even confessed, forgiven sin carries consequences. So we take them to Jesus - knowing that He will strengthen and enable us to walk through whatever consequences come.
To Simeon and Levi (vs. 5 - 7). These two brothers were the ones who orchestrated the massacre of the men of Shechem. They apparently had a violent, blood-thirsty nature. Jacob says they are to be scattered. Banding together would give a strength that they needed to not have. Simeon never had a strong tribe. Some of the Simeonites were captured and ending up living in the lands of the Edomites and Amalekites (1 Chron 15:9) "Apparently they were eventually either mostly assimilated by Judah or scattered outside of Israel altogether, and little is heard of them after the days of King Asa" (Henry Morris: The Genesis Record) Levi's descendants become the servants of the Temple and the priestly tribe - so they have no land of their own but are scattered amongst the other tribes. Lessons? Beware "mob mentality". We are all susceptible to it. Be cautious before you jump on any one's bandwagon. Think. Pray.
To Judah (vs. 8 - 12). As I have mentioned earlier, Judah becomes "grown up" and takes on a leadership role in the family. He takes on responsibility. He develops into an honorable man. And Jacob acknowledges these things in his comments to and about him. When the country splits into a northern kingdom and a southern kingdom, the southern kingdom carries the name, Judah. The most exciting verse in this blessing is verse 10. King David will later come from Judah. And Judah became the prominent tribe from then on. Notice that the "scepter" would not depart from Judah "until he comes to whom it belongs". And we see another promise of the coming of Messiah ... of Jesus. Matthew 1:1 - the beginning of the genealogy of Jesus - and Judah's name is in verse 3. Lessons? Grow up! There is virtue and beauty and honor in growing up ... becoming a mature man or mature woman ... growing up into our head, even Christ.
We don't know too much about the other brothers mentioned until we get to Joseph in verse 22. Jacob describes Joseph as "a fruitful vine". Joseph had named his second son Manasseh, meaning, "God has made me fruitful in the land of my suffering." A fruitful vine ... Lessons? Are you one? I want to be one! How do we do that? Jesus gives us clear instruction ...
We continue to listen to Jacob on his deathbed as he passes on "blessing" to his offspring, his twelve sons. We observed in chapter 48 that Joseph received the traditional 'double portion' of the first born. This was done by including both of Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, as direct descendants of Jacob. In chapter 49, Jacob speaks to each of his sons.
As you read the comments, one might question whether or not some of them sound much like 'blessings'. And it is true that some harsh things are said. But think with me for a moment ... can something said that sounds harsh be a warning? And - if a warning - is it not a blessing? It seems that Jacob, recognizing certain character traits and tendencies in his sons, gives each a preview of what will be grief and what will bring joy.
Let's make a few observations ...
To Reuben (vs. 3 - 4). Reuben was the actual first-born. That came with privileges - privileges that he obviously did not honor. His sin of making love to Jacob's 'wife' Bilhah brought dishonor on him and dramatically effected his legacy. Perhaps it was an undisciplined, lustful character that Jacob called "turbulent". Lessons? Sin has consequences. Of course, unconfessed sin outside of the grace of God has eternal consequences. But even confessed, forgiven sin carries consequences. So we take them to Jesus - knowing that He will strengthen and enable us to walk through whatever consequences come.
To Simeon and Levi (vs. 5 - 7). These two brothers were the ones who orchestrated the massacre of the men of Shechem. They apparently had a violent, blood-thirsty nature. Jacob says they are to be scattered. Banding together would give a strength that they needed to not have. Simeon never had a strong tribe. Some of the Simeonites were captured and ending up living in the lands of the Edomites and Amalekites (1 Chron 15:9) "Apparently they were eventually either mostly assimilated by Judah or scattered outside of Israel altogether, and little is heard of them after the days of King Asa" (Henry Morris: The Genesis Record) Levi's descendants become the servants of the Temple and the priestly tribe - so they have no land of their own but are scattered amongst the other tribes. Lessons? Beware "mob mentality". We are all susceptible to it. Be cautious before you jump on any one's bandwagon. Think. Pray.
To Judah (vs. 8 - 12). As I have mentioned earlier, Judah becomes "grown up" and takes on a leadership role in the family. He takes on responsibility. He develops into an honorable man. And Jacob acknowledges these things in his comments to and about him. When the country splits into a northern kingdom and a southern kingdom, the southern kingdom carries the name, Judah. The most exciting verse in this blessing is verse 10. King David will later come from Judah. And Judah became the prominent tribe from then on. Notice that the "scepter" would not depart from Judah "until he comes to whom it belongs". And we see another promise of the coming of Messiah ... of Jesus. Matthew 1:1 - the beginning of the genealogy of Jesus - and Judah's name is in verse 3. Lessons? Grow up! There is virtue and beauty and honor in growing up ... becoming a mature man or mature woman ... growing up into our head, even Christ.
We don't know too much about the other brothers mentioned until we get to Joseph in verse 22. Jacob describes Joseph as "a fruitful vine". Joseph had named his second son Manasseh, meaning, "God has made me fruitful in the land of my suffering." A fruitful vine ... Lessons? Are you one? I want to be one! How do we do that? Jesus gives us clear instruction ...
"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. ... Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.. I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15: 1 - 5)So ... to be a fruitful vine like Joseph ... remain in the Lord. Live in Him. Set up your housekeeping in Him. Make your 'nest' there. Be like a turtle ... take your house with you so that you can remain in it at all times! And allow Him to bear fruit in your life. Be a fruitful vine ...
November 8, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 10 Day 1
Read Genesis 48
Beginning in chapter 48 of Genesis we walk into the deathbed scene of Jacob. This is one of the only people that we get such a detailed description of the time around their death. Jacob has lived 17 years in Egypt - 17 years longer than he anticipated! It seems he had been prepared to die when he saw Joseph again (Genesis 46:30). He had already told Joseph to be sure to not bury him in Egypt - take his bones back to Canaan - the land of covenant promise to Abraham, Isaac, and himself. Joseph had agreed to that plan.
I love the closing of chapter 47. "and Israel worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff." I see an old man - at peace with God - worshiping. We never retire from the need to worship God. It forever is appropriate behavior from us. We are never too old ... to wise ... to tired ... to worship. Have you done that today?
What unfolds in the next 3 chapters is a beautiful passing on of heritage - of blessing - of this grand, old Patriarch pronouncing upon his progeny their place in the plan of God. There are three things that I want to mention for your consideration from chapter 48.
First, Jacob gives Joseph the "double portion" that traditionally went to the first-born. A father had the right to make that call. Reuben, the first son that Jacob fathered, had proven himself unworthy when he slept with Bilhah, one of Jacob's 'wives'. But more than that ... I think Jacob truly saw Joseph as his first born. He never wanted another wife other than Rachel. She was the woman who captured his heart, his love and his actual request for marriage. The other women came because of deception and manipulation. So Joseph, through his sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, receives the double portion. In reality, Jacob "adopts" these boys and they become heirs along with the other sons of Jacob. Therefore, as you read later about the 12 tribes of Israel, you do not read of a tribe of Joseph ... there are 2 tribes from Joseph, Ephraim and Manasseh.
Second, don't miss the power of one's story. Jacob tells Joseph his "testimony" - a bit of his life story in 48: 1 - 11. I suspect some of these details had been told to him when he was a boy ... but how differently he would hear them now that he was a man. I can see Joseph hanging on every word. Be sure that you are passing on "your story" to your children. If your children are now adults ... let them hear again the how and the why you are who you are.
Third, there are 2 "firsts" in Genesis 48: 15 - 16. One is the reference to God as a shepherd. This is the first time that image is used. It is such a tender and poignant one. We will find it many more times in scripture but the first is here ... where an old man, about to die, recognizes and verbalizes that God has shepherded him all the days of his life - through the good and the bad, the righteous and the unrighteous. God is a faithful shepherd. He was to Jacob ... and He is to you. Can you do that right now? Will you stop a moment and think of the ways that God has been your shepherd all your days to this point? It will increase our confidence to walk upright into whatever our future days hold. "The Lord is my shepherd ... I want for nothing." (Psalm 23:1)
The other "first" is in verse 16. The NIV translates "the Angel who has delivered me from all harm..." The Hebrew word is the word for "redeemed". A more literal translation would read: "The Angel which redeemed me from all evil..." The "Angel" is none other than the preincarnate Jesus. Jacob recognized that His work is redemption. And His work is still redemption - reclaiming precious souls, created in the image of God, back into the family of God.
This intimate exchange between Joseph and his father closes with Jacob reassuring Joseph that "God will be with you."
You know that, don't you? You don't walk through any of the struggles you face alone. Even when you feel the most abandoned and alone - "God is with you". Oh - may we know that truth deep within our core! May we rest in the surety of it. May we stand in the confidence of it. May we walk in the steadiness of it.
Blessed assurance ...
Beginning in chapter 48 of Genesis we walk into the deathbed scene of Jacob. This is one of the only people that we get such a detailed description of the time around their death. Jacob has lived 17 years in Egypt - 17 years longer than he anticipated! It seems he had been prepared to die when he saw Joseph again (Genesis 46:30). He had already told Joseph to be sure to not bury him in Egypt - take his bones back to Canaan - the land of covenant promise to Abraham, Isaac, and himself. Joseph had agreed to that plan.
I love the closing of chapter 47. "and Israel worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff." I see an old man - at peace with God - worshiping. We never retire from the need to worship God. It forever is appropriate behavior from us. We are never too old ... to wise ... to tired ... to worship. Have you done that today?
What unfolds in the next 3 chapters is a beautiful passing on of heritage - of blessing - of this grand, old Patriarch pronouncing upon his progeny their place in the plan of God. There are three things that I want to mention for your consideration from chapter 48.
First, Jacob gives Joseph the "double portion" that traditionally went to the first-born. A father had the right to make that call. Reuben, the first son that Jacob fathered, had proven himself unworthy when he slept with Bilhah, one of Jacob's 'wives'. But more than that ... I think Jacob truly saw Joseph as his first born. He never wanted another wife other than Rachel. She was the woman who captured his heart, his love and his actual request for marriage. The other women came because of deception and manipulation. So Joseph, through his sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, receives the double portion. In reality, Jacob "adopts" these boys and they become heirs along with the other sons of Jacob. Therefore, as you read later about the 12 tribes of Israel, you do not read of a tribe of Joseph ... there are 2 tribes from Joseph, Ephraim and Manasseh.
Second, don't miss the power of one's story. Jacob tells Joseph his "testimony" - a bit of his life story in 48: 1 - 11. I suspect some of these details had been told to him when he was a boy ... but how differently he would hear them now that he was a man. I can see Joseph hanging on every word. Be sure that you are passing on "your story" to your children. If your children are now adults ... let them hear again the how and the why you are who you are.
Third, there are 2 "firsts" in Genesis 48: 15 - 16. One is the reference to God as a shepherd. This is the first time that image is used. It is such a tender and poignant one. We will find it many more times in scripture but the first is here ... where an old man, about to die, recognizes and verbalizes that God has shepherded him all the days of his life - through the good and the bad, the righteous and the unrighteous. God is a faithful shepherd. He was to Jacob ... and He is to you. Can you do that right now? Will you stop a moment and think of the ways that God has been your shepherd all your days to this point? It will increase our confidence to walk upright into whatever our future days hold. "The Lord is my shepherd ... I want for nothing." (Psalm 23:1)
The other "first" is in verse 16. The NIV translates "the Angel who has delivered me from all harm..." The Hebrew word is the word for "redeemed". A more literal translation would read: "The Angel which redeemed me from all evil..." The "Angel" is none other than the preincarnate Jesus. Jacob recognized that His work is redemption. And His work is still redemption - reclaiming precious souls, created in the image of God, back into the family of God.
This intimate exchange between Joseph and his father closes with Jacob reassuring Joseph that "God will be with you."
You know that, don't you? You don't walk through any of the struggles you face alone. Even when you feel the most abandoned and alone - "God is with you". Oh - may we know that truth deep within our core! May we rest in the surety of it. May we stand in the confidence of it. May we walk in the steadiness of it.
Blessed assurance ...
November 6, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Letter from Gail
Dear Readers ...
There are currently some internal issues with the "blogger" site that I use for this blog. They are working on the trouble. Meantime ... you are noticing sentences out of place, paragraphs moved, etc. It is a most frustrating problem! When I try and correct the mistakes ... blogger moves a different sentence to a new place. I want to apologize to you for what seems to be careless attention to the presentation and organization of the readings. I ask for your patience (as well as praying for my own!) as the programmers of this site are trying to figure out the bugs.
Grace and peace to you
Gail
PS - there is no telling how this note will come out when I press "post"!
There are currently some internal issues with the "blogger" site that I use for this blog. They are working on the trouble. Meantime ... you are noticing sentences out of place, paragraphs moved, etc. It is a most frustrating problem! When I try and correct the mistakes ... blogger moves a different sentence to a new place. I want to apologize to you for what seems to be careless attention to the presentation and organization of the readings. I ask for your patience (as well as praying for my own!) as the programmers of this site are trying to figure out the bugs.
Grace and peace to you
Gail
PS - there is no telling how this note will come out when I press "post"!
November 5, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 9 Day 3
Read Genesis 45:16 - 47:31
I can only imagine the emotion of this scene of meeting. Can you see Jacob and Joseph scrutinizing each other's faces? The embraces ... the tears ... the incredulity. Amazing ...
I want to focus on the scene when Joseph takes Jacob into the presence of Pharaoh. Just imagine it. There is the splendor of the palace of Pharaoh. This is the wealthiest country in the world at the time. The Pharaohs were surrounded by servants. Their cups were made of alabaster. Chairs were made of gold. The elegance and splendor had to have been staggering. Also, this is the most powerful ruler in the world at the time. This is a ruler that was considered to be the earthly embodiment of the great sun god, Ra, not just a man. Enter Jacob. An aged Hebrew shepherd. He would have had a beard most likely. I wonder if he had a staff? I probably have seen too many movies, but I can picture Jacob walking in to that splendid palace with a coarse robe blowing in the wind, staff in hand, beard long and free. We can learn some things from Jacob as he encounters Pharaoh.
First, Jacob blesses Pharaoh. He was not intimidated by the wealth and power in front of him. He passes on a Hebrew blessing. And the "greater blesses the lesser". Would you consider Jacob to be greater than Pharaoh? The world would not. It is the principle we first saw when Melchizedek blessed Abraham (Genesis 14: 18 - 20; Hebrews 7:7) You and I have a tendency to be so impressed and dazzled by worldly wealth and power - so impressed by politically powerful people - that we tend to go mute when in their presence. Not Jacob. Robert Candlish in his Studies in Genesis, says:
The question for you and I - do we speak up when in the presence of worldly power? Or are we intimidated into silence? Do we really believe that we have something to offer this old world of ours?
No greater wealth exists that what you and I, as believers in Jehovah and the sacrifice of Jesus, have to offer our circles of influence. Speak up! Jacob was not intimidated. I don't want to be either!
The second thing that impresses me about this encounter is that Jacob describes himself as a "pilgrim." A pilgrim is a traveler, a person with no present land to claim as their own. Jacob calls himself, and his fathers before him, pilgrims. They were on a journey. I must remember that. I am on a journey. This is not "home". I, too, am a pilgrim. We get so attached to our place ... our country ... our homes ... we can forget that we are but pilgrims here. We do well to remember the words written by the author of Hebrews in Hebrews 11: 13 - 16:
All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country - a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.
The final thing I would have you notice
We are but pilgrims here. Jacob understood. Jacob defined himself that way. Do you? Do I? In reality ... "this world is not our home ..."
about Jacob's exchange with Pharaoh: he described his years as short and difficult. So what do we take from that? Life is short. It flies by, does it not? As I write, my daughters, my little girls who filled this house with laughter and energy and play, are all grown up with homes of their own. My house is quiet. Where did those years go? Life is short. I don't want to miss a day. I don't want to neglect a moment. I don't want to overlook a joy or a glimpse of beauty. Life is short.
Jacob also reminds us that life is difficult. Living this side of eternity, in this fallen world, is more than difficult. Jacob has had his share of trauma and pain and loss. I know that you have too. And we can echo this old patriarch as he says that his years are few and his days difficult. It should be no surprise to us. I wonder why it seems to keep surprising us - the brevity, the difficulty of life? Jacob reminds me that I long to be faithful through my short years and difficult days!
I can only imagine the emotion of this scene of meeting. Can you see Jacob and Joseph scrutinizing each other's faces? The embraces ... the tears ... the incredulity. Amazing ...
I want to focus on the scene when Joseph takes Jacob into the presence of Pharaoh. Just imagine it. There is the splendor of the palace of Pharaoh. This is the wealthiest country in the world at the time. The Pharaohs were surrounded by servants. Their cups were made of alabaster. Chairs were made of gold. The elegance and splendor had to have been staggering. Also, this is the most powerful ruler in the world at the time. This is a ruler that was considered to be the earthly embodiment of the great sun god, Ra, not just a man. Enter Jacob. An aged Hebrew shepherd. He would have had a beard most likely. I wonder if he had a staff? I probably have seen too many movies, but I can picture Jacob walking in to that splendid palace with a coarse robe blowing in the wind, staff in hand, beard long and free. We can learn some things from Jacob as he encounters Pharaoh.
First, Jacob blesses Pharaoh. He was not intimidated by the wealth and power in front of him. He passes on a Hebrew blessing. And the "greater blesses the lesser". Would you consider Jacob to be greater than Pharaoh? The world would not. It is the principle we first saw when Melchizedek blessed Abraham (Genesis 14: 18 - 20; Hebrews 7:7) You and I have a tendency to be so impressed and dazzled by worldly wealth and power - so impressed by politically powerful people - that we tend to go mute when in their presence. Not Jacob. Robert Candlish in his Studies in Genesis, says:
Lifting up his hands at the full height of his stature, without one preliminary word of salutation or gesture of compliment to the king, the old man pours out his soul in prayer - asking God's blessing on the royal head - and in God's name, pronouncing the customary blessing of Abraham's house and seed.
The question for you and I - do we speak up when in the presence of worldly power? Or are we intimidated into silence? Do we really believe that we have something to offer this old world of ours?
No greater wealth exists that what you and I, as believers in Jehovah and the sacrifice of Jesus, have to offer our circles of influence. Speak up! Jacob was not intimidated. I don't want to be either!
The second thing that impresses me about this encounter is that Jacob describes himself as a "pilgrim." A pilgrim is a traveler, a person with no present land to claim as their own. Jacob calls himself, and his fathers before him, pilgrims. They were on a journey. I must remember that. I am on a journey. This is not "home". I, too, am a pilgrim. We get so attached to our place ... our country ... our homes ... we can forget that we are but pilgrims here. We do well to remember the words written by the author of Hebrews in Hebrews 11: 13 - 16:
All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country - a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.
The final thing I would have you notice
We are but pilgrims here. Jacob understood. Jacob defined himself that way. Do you? Do I? In reality ... "this world is not our home ..."
about Jacob's exchange with Pharaoh: he described his years as short and difficult. So what do we take from that? Life is short. It flies by, does it not? As I write, my daughters, my little girls who filled this house with laughter and energy and play, are all grown up with homes of their own. My house is quiet. Where did those years go? Life is short. I don't want to miss a day. I don't want to neglect a moment. I don't want to overlook a joy or a glimpse of beauty. Life is short.
Jacob also reminds us that life is difficult. Living this side of eternity, in this fallen world, is more than difficult. Jacob has had his share of trauma and pain and loss. I know that you have too. And we can echo this old patriarch as he says that his years are few and his days difficult. It should be no surprise to us. I wonder why it seems to keep surprising us - the brevity, the difficulty of life? Jacob reminds me that I long to be faithful through my short years and difficult days!
Lord, help us walk beside You all along our pilgrimage here. Help us be faithful to our Lord through each of our days - the ones that are easy and the ones that are difficult. May we have the courage of Jacob to give testimony, to give blessing, even in the presence of people the world would call "great". I don't want to be dazzled by the glitz of the world ... I want to be dazzled by the eyes of my Lord. And through Your Spirit ... may it be.
November 3, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 9 Day 2
Read Genesis 43:15 - 45:15
This is one of the most detailed accounts given in all of scripture. The emotional ride is intense and there are really no words to describe the feelings that are swirling all around the scene. We are observing an internal battle within the soul of Joseph. I think - in the midst of the returned monies, the silver cup, the in and out of prison, the hostage and the demands for Benjamin - we have a front row seat to the turmoil raging within Joseph.
Joseph had "chosen" to put his childhood pain out of his conscious mind. We see that in the way he named his first son. But with the appearance of his brothers - these Hebrew shepherds - the unresolved pain exploded to the surface. What follows is the tumult of Joseph figuring out how to respond.
Listen to Naomi Rosenblatt:
The turning point comes in chapter 44:18. Judah steps up. Judah - the brother whose idea it was to sell Joseph (37:26) - steps up. Can you imagine the courage it took for this accused Hebrew to walk up to the viceroy of all Egypt to have a private conversation - without being invited? In his plea, Judah unawares uses all of the "emotional hot buttons" for Joseph. He speaks of the aged father, his inconsolable grief, the "dead" son, the mother, the only remaining son of the mother - and Joseph's insides must have been contorting with memory and pain. Then Judah offers himself in exchange for Benjamin. What a 180 degree turn from the Judah who had led the exile of Joseph.
I see a picture of my Lord, Jesus, here. Judah - offering himself so that Benjamin could remain free. I can hear Jesus talking about "laying down his life for his friends". I can hear him talking about his coming that we might be free from sin and death ... that we might be reconciled to the "Father". One of the names for Jesus is "Lion of Judah".
And Joseph's heart is rent open ... he can contain his emotion no longer ... his desire for revenge and punishment melts away in the light of Judah's willingness to give himself up for Benjamin and Jacob. And Joseph forgives. Joseph even tries to assuage the guilt of the brothers. Love and hatred have been at war ... and love comes out victorious.
Where are love and hatred waging war in your own spirit? Catullus, a Roman writing in 1BC said: "I hate and love. You ask, perhaps, how can that be? I know not, but I feel the agony." If you are in that war zone, you, too, can feel the agony. What to do? Offer forgiveness. It is the only antidote. It alone provides healing for a tormented soul. Revenge never works. Leave that in God's hands.
Another point that strikes me ... Joseph does a transformation here as well. When he had the dreams in his youth about his brothers bowing down to him ... I think he saw the dreams as ruler and servants. Now, in the current circumstances, I think Joseph sees those dreams as a preview of his brothers being dependent upon him. Joseph has become a man.
Let's close with one touch of humor in this passage. I don't think we ever outgrow the desire to impress our parents. Did you see that Joseph, twice, tells his brothers to be sure and tell Jacob about his position in Egypt. He gives the credit to God, not to himself ... but he really wants his daddy to know. I get that! How about you?
This is one of the most detailed accounts given in all of scripture. The emotional ride is intense and there are really no words to describe the feelings that are swirling all around the scene. We are observing an internal battle within the soul of Joseph. I think - in the midst of the returned monies, the silver cup, the in and out of prison, the hostage and the demands for Benjamin - we have a front row seat to the turmoil raging within Joseph.
Joseph had "chosen" to put his childhood pain out of his conscious mind. We see that in the way he named his first son. But with the appearance of his brothers - these Hebrew shepherds - the unresolved pain exploded to the surface. What follows is the tumult of Joseph figuring out how to respond.
Listen to Naomi Rosenblatt:
Try as we might to repress painful memories, they inevitably resurface at other times of our lives, when we least expect them. The most extreme examples of this phenomenon are cases of childhood abuse in which the victims repress all memory of the events for decades. The unresolved pain of these incidents, though consciously forgotten, continues to wreak havoc on personal relationships. Pain is not a tidy emotion that we can conveniently tuck away out of sight. Repressed traumas eventually reemerge. When they do, we have an opportunity to resolve the pain and damage done years earlier. But not without courage and hard work.I don't think Joseph knew what he was going to do. Would he exact revenge? Did he want them to feel the helplessness, the abandonment that they had inflicted upon him? Did he want to see them afraid? I think the answer to all of the above is "Yes!"
The turning point comes in chapter 44:18. Judah steps up. Judah - the brother whose idea it was to sell Joseph (37:26) - steps up. Can you imagine the courage it took for this accused Hebrew to walk up to the viceroy of all Egypt to have a private conversation - without being invited? In his plea, Judah unawares uses all of the "emotional hot buttons" for Joseph. He speaks of the aged father, his inconsolable grief, the "dead" son, the mother, the only remaining son of the mother - and Joseph's insides must have been contorting with memory and pain. Then Judah offers himself in exchange for Benjamin. What a 180 degree turn from the Judah who had led the exile of Joseph.
I see a picture of my Lord, Jesus, here. Judah - offering himself so that Benjamin could remain free. I can hear Jesus talking about "laying down his life for his friends". I can hear him talking about his coming that we might be free from sin and death ... that we might be reconciled to the "Father". One of the names for Jesus is "Lion of Judah".
And Joseph's heart is rent open ... he can contain his emotion no longer ... his desire for revenge and punishment melts away in the light of Judah's willingness to give himself up for Benjamin and Jacob. And Joseph forgives. Joseph even tries to assuage the guilt of the brothers. Love and hatred have been at war ... and love comes out victorious.
Where are love and hatred waging war in your own spirit? Catullus, a Roman writing in 1BC said: "I hate and love. You ask, perhaps, how can that be? I know not, but I feel the agony." If you are in that war zone, you, too, can feel the agony. What to do? Offer forgiveness. It is the only antidote. It alone provides healing for a tormented soul. Revenge never works. Leave that in God's hands.
Another point that strikes me ... Joseph does a transformation here as well. When he had the dreams in his youth about his brothers bowing down to him ... I think he saw the dreams as ruler and servants. Now, in the current circumstances, I think Joseph sees those dreams as a preview of his brothers being dependent upon him. Joseph has become a man.
Let's close with one touch of humor in this passage. I don't think we ever outgrow the desire to impress our parents. Did you see that Joseph, twice, tells his brothers to be sure and tell Jacob about his position in Egypt. He gives the credit to God, not to himself ... but he really wants his daddy to know. I get that! How about you?
November 2, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 9 Day 1
As we continue the saga with Joseph, read Genesis 42:1 - 43:14
I want us to think about Joseph's brothers today. We are allowed by God to watch the transformation of these men. And they are a tough lot! Just to recount a little that we know about them ...
* Simeon and Levi led a slaughter of an entire city because of the violation of their sister, Dinah (Genesis 34)
* All 10 brothers conspired to kill their brother Joseph ... relenting only when Reuben protested a little to the plan. So they changed plans and 'just' sold him into slavery, fabricating a story of his death for their father, Jacob.
* Judah slept with his daughter-in-law, thinking she was a prostitute, got her pregnant and fathered a set of twins by her. (Genesis 38)
(And you thought your family was a mess!)
Think about their transformation ...
First, this tough group of men have been brought to a place of neediness. It was done through famine. They are hungry. Their families are hungry. All their possessions and wealth does not serve them now. There is no grain to buy. Neediness is usually the place where transformation first begins - when we begin to realize that we cannot make the situation right - we cannot fix it - it is out of our control. These men are hungry. And they long to be filled. They believe it is all about food - about their stomachs. But God has much more in store for them.
I think that "famine" represents for us any circumstance that spotlights our neediness and our inability to handle things on our own. The "hunger" is the beginning place ...
Hear Jesus: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness ... for they shall be filled. (Matthew 5:6) The "hunger" is the beginning place.
In John 6:35 - "Then Jesus declared, 'I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.'" The "hunger" is the beginning place.
Has God placed any 'neediness' in your life right now? Where is He trying to get your attention? That is a famine! The beginning place in your own transformation is wanting to be filled.
Secondly, these sons of Jacob experience harsh treatment. They are accused falsely of being spies. They passionately pour out their explanation but it is not believed. Of course, Joseph knows the spy-talk is a lie, but he still puts them all in prison for 3 days. That was, in itself, a bit of a 'pit', don't you think? He orchestrates the situation so that his brothers experience harsh treatment. Why? Why does he not immediately reveal himself? There are many possibilities ... maybe this was all planned ... maybe he was struggling with his own emotions ... maybe he needed time to decide what he was going to do. Scripture does not tell us Joseph's motives so I think we are free to think about the "maybes". It seems to be in this prison where the guilt of conscience finally has its breakthrough. When the men are released, they confess to each other the guilt over Joseph that they have carried for 20+ years. One author describes it as "jarring the guilt into consciousness." It's required you know. Confession.
Are there any places in your own life that need confessing? It doesn't matter if it happened years, even decades, ago. It is a part of the transformation process. It's a form of catharsis.
1 John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
One word of caution: don't keep confessing the same sin over and over again. That is Satan's voice telling you to do that, not God's. If you have previously, sincerely, confessed to God ... it is a closed page. God 'remembers' it no more. He no longer sees that on your face or in your life. Believe Him ...
Third, we see transformation happening because we see the signs of character emerging in Judah. When a return trip to Egypt must be made to hold off starvation, it is Judah who steps up and takes responsibility for Benjamin. It is Judah that behaves as a grown-up ... as a man. Reuben had attempted to guarantee Benjamin's save travel ... but did you notice he offered up his sons, not himself? (Genesis 42:37) but Jacob was not desperate enough yet. Judah, in Genesis 43: 8 - 10 takes on the roll of the responsible one. And he takes it on himself.
So ... transformation ...
feel the need
wake up the conscience ... and confess to God
be a grown up ... take some responsibility for your own life
I want us to think about Joseph's brothers today. We are allowed by God to watch the transformation of these men. And they are a tough lot! Just to recount a little that we know about them ...
* Simeon and Levi led a slaughter of an entire city because of the violation of their sister, Dinah (Genesis 34)
* All 10 brothers conspired to kill their brother Joseph ... relenting only when Reuben protested a little to the plan. So they changed plans and 'just' sold him into slavery, fabricating a story of his death for their father, Jacob.
* Judah slept with his daughter-in-law, thinking she was a prostitute, got her pregnant and fathered a set of twins by her. (Genesis 38)
(And you thought your family was a mess!)
Think about their transformation ...
First, this tough group of men have been brought to a place of neediness. It was done through famine. They are hungry. Their families are hungry. All their possessions and wealth does not serve them now. There is no grain to buy. Neediness is usually the place where transformation first begins - when we begin to realize that we cannot make the situation right - we cannot fix it - it is out of our control. These men are hungry. And they long to be filled. They believe it is all about food - about their stomachs. But God has much more in store for them.
I think that "famine" represents for us any circumstance that spotlights our neediness and our inability to handle things on our own. The "hunger" is the beginning place ...
Hear Jesus: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness ... for they shall be filled. (Matthew 5:6) The "hunger" is the beginning place.
In John 6:35 - "Then Jesus declared, 'I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.'" The "hunger" is the beginning place.
Has God placed any 'neediness' in your life right now? Where is He trying to get your attention? That is a famine! The beginning place in your own transformation is wanting to be filled.
Secondly, these sons of Jacob experience harsh treatment. They are accused falsely of being spies. They passionately pour out their explanation but it is not believed. Of course, Joseph knows the spy-talk is a lie, but he still puts them all in prison for 3 days. That was, in itself, a bit of a 'pit', don't you think? He orchestrates the situation so that his brothers experience harsh treatment. Why? Why does he not immediately reveal himself? There are many possibilities ... maybe this was all planned ... maybe he was struggling with his own emotions ... maybe he needed time to decide what he was going to do. Scripture does not tell us Joseph's motives so I think we are free to think about the "maybes". It seems to be in this prison where the guilt of conscience finally has its breakthrough. When the men are released, they confess to each other the guilt over Joseph that they have carried for 20+ years. One author describes it as "jarring the guilt into consciousness." It's required you know. Confession.
Are there any places in your own life that need confessing? It doesn't matter if it happened years, even decades, ago. It is a part of the transformation process. It's a form of catharsis.
1 John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
One word of caution: don't keep confessing the same sin over and over again. That is Satan's voice telling you to do that, not God's. If you have previously, sincerely, confessed to God ... it is a closed page. God 'remembers' it no more. He no longer sees that on your face or in your life. Believe Him ...
Third, we see transformation happening because we see the signs of character emerging in Judah. When a return trip to Egypt must be made to hold off starvation, it is Judah who steps up and takes responsibility for Benjamin. It is Judah that behaves as a grown-up ... as a man. Reuben had attempted to guarantee Benjamin's save travel ... but did you notice he offered up his sons, not himself? (Genesis 42:37) but Jacob was not desperate enough yet. Judah, in Genesis 43: 8 - 10 takes on the roll of the responsible one. And he takes it on himself.
So ... transformation ...
feel the need
wake up the conscience ... and confess to God
be a grown up ... take some responsibility for your own life
Lord ... we desire to be transformed by You into the image of Your Son. Let it begin in me ... let it begin and/or continue today ... let it come to full revelation of Yourself in us. And we believe that "the good work You began in us will be carried on to completion" (Philippians 1:6) because it is You who promised and You who will do it. I choose cooperation with Your Spirit ...
October 29, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 8 Day 3
Read Genesis 41: 41 - 57
What a rise to power! After being in a cistern pit ... a slave in a foreign land (he would have to learn the language, remember - no small task!) ... falsely accused of attempted rape ... imprisoned ... now there is this meteoric rise to the second-most powerful figure in the most powerful country in the world. Amazing.
I would like to share a couple of things that seem important to me. I have previously written about the integrity and work ethic that characterizes Joseph. He worked honorably wherever he was - in whatever circumstances he found himself. This plunge into prosperity did not change that. Notice verse 46. Joseph goes out throughout the entire land of Egypt - immediately. I think Joseph was following his self-chosen path of doing his work with integrity. He was getting the lay of the land - himself - not by report - not by hearsay - by personal involvement. I like that about him. It shows authentic leadership. And it confirms to me that prosperity does not change his character. In adversity ... he was an honorable man. In prosperity ... he remains an honorable man.
So ... think about yourself. Sometimes we are so intent on seeking God when in adversity ... and once the trouble has passed ... we go on our merry way, too busy to seek the face of God. Times of peace in our lives are not times to ignore our spiritual discipline. You are not in a season of peace because of anything you have done to deserve it! You are there by the grace of God ... a time of rest ... a time of refreshment. Keep God central in the times of peace and prosperity.
The second thing today is ... look again at verse 51 and notice the meaning behind the name of Joseph's firstborn son ... Manasseh. Manasseh means "forgetting". Joseph chose the name because he said that God has made him forget the trouble from his past. Think for a few minutes about this forgetting business. God says often that He forgets the sins of his people who confess them to Him. One example is Jeremiah 31:34 - "For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." OK - so does that mean the God somehow becomes less than omniscient? Less than all-knowing? It can't mean that. What I believe it means is that God chooses to not let that wickedness be the lens through which His child is seen. It no longer drives the identity of the person. God lays it aside to never pick it up again.
Now, Joseph's forgetting the pain of his past and his father's household is not some kind of science fiction mind zapping. His memory is not wiped out as with a drug. We know that because of the "rest of the story" that is coming. Joseph is choosing to no longer give that pain the power to drive his current life. He is choosing to move forward. He chooses to "forget" the past. This, my friends, is the tiny seed from which forgiveness grows.
The apostle Paul, in writing to the Philippian church, said: "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:13-14) Does that mean he no longer remembers the life he lived as a Pharisee, consenting to the death of Stephen and persecuting the early church? Does it mean that he no longer has memory of the stonings and the hardship, the persecution and the struggles that he has endured since he became an ambassador for Christ? Of course not! It means that he does not allow things from his past to bind him or cripple him from moving forward into his future.
Think about your own circumstances. Is there something you need to "forget"? I have a circumstance in my own life that is in my mind right now. Do you? If I am going to move forward into the next place God would have me go ... I must "forget" the past and the pain inflicted. I, also, need to have a "manasseh". And what does that mean? It means the "event" will no longer define me ... it will not determine my thoughts, my plans, my life. It is "forgotten". Learn from Joseph. Our lives will be much better if we learn to "forget".
I think this will take a miracle. But, take heart, we have a miracle-working God.
What a rise to power! After being in a cistern pit ... a slave in a foreign land (he would have to learn the language, remember - no small task!) ... falsely accused of attempted rape ... imprisoned ... now there is this meteoric rise to the second-most powerful figure in the most powerful country in the world. Amazing.
I would like to share a couple of things that seem important to me. I have previously written about the integrity and work ethic that characterizes Joseph. He worked honorably wherever he was - in whatever circumstances he found himself. This plunge into prosperity did not change that. Notice verse 46. Joseph goes out throughout the entire land of Egypt - immediately. I think Joseph was following his self-chosen path of doing his work with integrity. He was getting the lay of the land - himself - not by report - not by hearsay - by personal involvement. I like that about him. It shows authentic leadership. And it confirms to me that prosperity does not change his character. In adversity ... he was an honorable man. In prosperity ... he remains an honorable man.
So ... think about yourself. Sometimes we are so intent on seeking God when in adversity ... and once the trouble has passed ... we go on our merry way, too busy to seek the face of God. Times of peace in our lives are not times to ignore our spiritual discipline. You are not in a season of peace because of anything you have done to deserve it! You are there by the grace of God ... a time of rest ... a time of refreshment. Keep God central in the times of peace and prosperity.
The second thing today is ... look again at verse 51 and notice the meaning behind the name of Joseph's firstborn son ... Manasseh. Manasseh means "forgetting". Joseph chose the name because he said that God has made him forget the trouble from his past. Think for a few minutes about this forgetting business. God says often that He forgets the sins of his people who confess them to Him. One example is Jeremiah 31:34 - "For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." OK - so does that mean the God somehow becomes less than omniscient? Less than all-knowing? It can't mean that. What I believe it means is that God chooses to not let that wickedness be the lens through which His child is seen. It no longer drives the identity of the person. God lays it aside to never pick it up again.
Now, Joseph's forgetting the pain of his past and his father's household is not some kind of science fiction mind zapping. His memory is not wiped out as with a drug. We know that because of the "rest of the story" that is coming. Joseph is choosing to no longer give that pain the power to drive his current life. He is choosing to move forward. He chooses to "forget" the past. This, my friends, is the tiny seed from which forgiveness grows.
The apostle Paul, in writing to the Philippian church, said: "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:13-14) Does that mean he no longer remembers the life he lived as a Pharisee, consenting to the death of Stephen and persecuting the early church? Does it mean that he no longer has memory of the stonings and the hardship, the persecution and the struggles that he has endured since he became an ambassador for Christ? Of course not! It means that he does not allow things from his past to bind him or cripple him from moving forward into his future.
Think about your own circumstances. Is there something you need to "forget"? I have a circumstance in my own life that is in my mind right now. Do you? If I am going to move forward into the next place God would have me go ... I must "forget" the past and the pain inflicted. I, also, need to have a "manasseh". And what does that mean? It means the "event" will no longer define me ... it will not determine my thoughts, my plans, my life. It is "forgotten". Learn from Joseph. Our lives will be much better if we learn to "forget".
I think this will take a miracle. But, take heart, we have a miracle-working God.
Lord, I choose to forget the past. I choose to lay the pain down. I choose to move forward without the albatross of past hurt. Through Your Spirit ... may it be!
October 28, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 8 Day 2
Read Genesis 41: 1 - 40
What a ride our protagonist is on! Reading the highlights chapter after chapter, we may loose the perspective of the years that are passing. Joseph has been in prison for 2 more years since the cupbearer was released back into the service of Pharoah. Then Pharoah dreams ...
We all dream ... most of us just don't remember them. It is a subconscious language. But Pharoah's dreams were so vivid - so real - he not only remembered them but was troubled by them. Coincidence? No - these were no mere 'dreams' - these were messages from God and the avenue God chose to have his servant, Joseph, released from prison. Proverbs 21:1 says:
"The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases."
Two things stand out to me as I read this account. First, look back at verses 15 - 16. Joseph is humble before his God. If he had a degree of arrogance or self-importance as a young man, it is all gone. Suffering has way of knocking it out of you! And, if a person is to be used by God, it must be knocked out. Joseph respectfully redirects the focus from himself to his God. You see, ALL glory belongs to the God of heaven. ALL. We read God speaking through His prophet, Isaiah, and saying:
For my own sake, for my own sake, I do this. How can I let myself be defamed? I will not yield my glory to another. (Isaiah 48:11)
To give the glory to God does not mean wallowing in false self-deprecation. Joseph knew exactly what he was about to do - through the wisdom and strength of God - and he speaks boldly. He just doesn't take credit for it. Lessons for us to learn ... we are to use our God-given gifts boldly, with respect and grace ... but use them - giving all the glory to the God who gave them in the first place. Thank you Joseph for modeling that for us.
And secondly, look again at verses 37 - 40. The manner in which Joseph handled this encounter allowed a pagan king to recognize the Spirit of God. Pharoah noticed two things about Joseph. He noticed that Joseph was discerning and wise. He saw Joseph's character. That lets me know that Joseph's demeanor before Pharoah was respectful, not cowering or arrogant. Pharoah also recognized the Sprit of God. This is the first time in scripture that we see God's Spirit coming upon a man for service. We read of it happening quite often through the pages of the Old Testament ... all the way through the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2 ... but this is the first. After that, fulfilling the promise of Jesus, God's Holy Spirit comes to reside WITHIN the believer. Pharoah recognized that the Spirit in Joseph was different that his own magicians and soothsayers. I want the Spirit of God to be visible in my own life, as well. Don't you? James Boice says,
And may the Spirit of God be seen in us ...
What a ride our protagonist is on! Reading the highlights chapter after chapter, we may loose the perspective of the years that are passing. Joseph has been in prison for 2 more years since the cupbearer was released back into the service of Pharoah. Then Pharoah dreams ...
We all dream ... most of us just don't remember them. It is a subconscious language. But Pharoah's dreams were so vivid - so real - he not only remembered them but was troubled by them. Coincidence? No - these were no mere 'dreams' - these were messages from God and the avenue God chose to have his servant, Joseph, released from prison. Proverbs 21:1 says:
"The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases."
Two things stand out to me as I read this account. First, look back at verses 15 - 16. Joseph is humble before his God. If he had a degree of arrogance or self-importance as a young man, it is all gone. Suffering has way of knocking it out of you! And, if a person is to be used by God, it must be knocked out. Joseph respectfully redirects the focus from himself to his God. You see, ALL glory belongs to the God of heaven. ALL. We read God speaking through His prophet, Isaiah, and saying:
For my own sake, for my own sake, I do this. How can I let myself be defamed? I will not yield my glory to another. (Isaiah 48:11)
To give the glory to God does not mean wallowing in false self-deprecation. Joseph knew exactly what he was about to do - through the wisdom and strength of God - and he speaks boldly. He just doesn't take credit for it. Lessons for us to learn ... we are to use our God-given gifts boldly, with respect and grace ... but use them - giving all the glory to the God who gave them in the first place. Thank you Joseph for modeling that for us.
And secondly, look again at verses 37 - 40. The manner in which Joseph handled this encounter allowed a pagan king to recognize the Spirit of God. Pharoah noticed two things about Joseph. He noticed that Joseph was discerning and wise. He saw Joseph's character. That lets me know that Joseph's demeanor before Pharoah was respectful, not cowering or arrogant. Pharoah also recognized the Sprit of God. This is the first time in scripture that we see God's Spirit coming upon a man for service. We read of it happening quite often through the pages of the Old Testament ... all the way through the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2 ... but this is the first. After that, fulfilling the promise of Jesus, God's Holy Spirit comes to reside WITHIN the believer. Pharoah recognized that the Spirit in Joseph was different that his own magicians and soothsayers. I want the Spirit of God to be visible in my own life, as well. Don't you? James Boice says,
"I wonder if people see that kind of character in us and if they recognize that it is God who has given it to us. The only way we will ever have that character (and the only way that others will ever see it) is if we have our eyes on God in all things. What happens if we see circumstances apart from God? If circumstances bring adversity, we complain and consider the world and those responsible to be unjust. If circumstances bring prosperity, we boast and think that somehow we are ultimately responsible. The one character is whining and unpleasant. The other is arrogant andintolerable. But if we have our minds on God, we see God in circumstances and trust him. Advsersity strengthens and mellows us. Prosperity humbles us and draws us even closer to the Lord."So ... today ... "Fix your eyes on Jesus ... the author and perfecter of your faith." (Hebrews 12:2)
And may the Spirit of God be seen in us ...
October 25, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 8 Day 1
Today, read Genesis 40.
Joseph is in prison. He seems to have befriended two fellow prisoners who had come from the household of Pharaoh himself. Evidently there had been some kind of plot uncovered, or poison found ... and not knowing who all was culpable, both the baker and the butler were imprisoned while, I suspect, the investigation was ongoing. And then we read of their dreams ... and Joseph's ability, through God, to give them interpretations of those dreams ... one favorable, one not.
We do not know exactly how long Joseph has already been in the prison. All we know about the timing is that Joseph was 17 when sold into slavery ... and 30 when Pharaoh releases him from prison. So 13 years pass while Joseph is serving in Potiphar's house and then languishes in the prison. Thirteen years since he had been sent from his home, his family. Thirteen years since he had seen his Dad. Thirteen years alone in a foreign land. Thirteen years ...
When Pharaoh's Butler is released and restored to his former position, don't you know that Joseph got excited about his own possible release! He asked the Butler to remember him ... and was assured by the Butler that he would indeed do just that. I suspect every time the door of the prison opened, he expectantly and eagerly went to see who was coming with what news! I wonder how long he watched? The first verse of chapter 41 tells us the total time period ... 2 years. I wonder how many days passed before Joseph stopped looking eagerly at the door. I wonder if there came a time when he did not even look up.
Genesis 40:23 tells us that the Butler forgot Joseph. After all ... his life was back to normal. And Joseph is forgotten. Being forgotten tends to do one of two things. Being forgotten ... being overlooked ... can embitter a person. Have you ever been on that side of the fence? Someone forgot a promise? You were overlooked and felt totally invisible and disregarded? If you have, you know the temptation to let bitterness set roots down in your own spirit. It's deadly. Paul says in Ephesians 4: 31 to "Put away from you all bitterness and wrath and anger and wrangling and slander, together with all malice ..."
The writer of the book of Hebrews tells us in Hebrews 12:15: "See to it that ... no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble, and through it many become defiled." Bad stuff ... bitterness. Is there any root of bitterness trying to grow into a mature plant in your soul? Go to God ... ask the Spirit of God in you to chop that thing down! It may take some forgiveness on your part. It may take A LOT of forgiveness on your part!
Being forgotten did not seem to embitter Joseph ... instead, it seemed to steady and deepen his character. Disappointment, monotony, being forgotten and ignored, do not have to make you rebellious and bitter. It will take the power of God ... but God can handle that!
We must remember ... God does not forget His people ... EVER! Men do ... men (and women) forget. Have you ever forgotten your child somewhere? I left my baby #3 in the church nursery one Sunday because I was not used to picking her up. And the wildness of getting #s 1 and 2 into the car with all bags and bows in tow ... I forgot her. God does not forget His people ... EVER! He did not forget Noah while Noah sat on a boat for 120 days. He did not forget Saul while he waited, blinded, in Damascus for 3 days. He did not forget ... He waited. There is a huge difference. He did not forget Joseph ... He was waiting ... for the right time ... for the maturing ... for the mellowing ... for the readiness.
There are 3 lessons for us to learn as we think about this "forgotten" business.
1. Stop trusting in men ... all of whom are ultimately undependable. Stop entrusting yourself, your ultimate well being, into the hands of man. Isaiah 2:22 "Stop trusting in man, who has but a breath in his nostrils. Of what account is he?"
2. When disillusioned with men, turn your focus to the love and faithfulness of God. Timothy tells us in 2 Timothy 2:13 that even when we are faithless, God will forever be faithful.
Remember Proverbs 3: 5 - 6?
And listen to Jeremiah 17: 5, 7:
3. The third lesson is practice waiting on God. It's so hard in our culture - our instant gratification world - our no-wait mentality. God does not work on our timetable. He never has worked according to man's wisdom ... and He will not begin with you! God told Joseph how long the butler and the baker had to wait - 3 days. He did not tell Joseph how long he would have to wait for his release. And Joseph waited ... and continued to do his work, in prison, honorably and with integrity.
Take the following words from Isaiah 40: 31 and turn them into your own prayer today. Where are you having to "wait"? Where have you been "forgotten"? Never doubt ... God has not forgotten you!
Joseph is in prison. He seems to have befriended two fellow prisoners who had come from the household of Pharaoh himself. Evidently there had been some kind of plot uncovered, or poison found ... and not knowing who all was culpable, both the baker and the butler were imprisoned while, I suspect, the investigation was ongoing. And then we read of their dreams ... and Joseph's ability, through God, to give them interpretations of those dreams ... one favorable, one not.
We do not know exactly how long Joseph has already been in the prison. All we know about the timing is that Joseph was 17 when sold into slavery ... and 30 when Pharaoh releases him from prison. So 13 years pass while Joseph is serving in Potiphar's house and then languishes in the prison. Thirteen years since he had been sent from his home, his family. Thirteen years since he had seen his Dad. Thirteen years alone in a foreign land. Thirteen years ...
When Pharaoh's Butler is released and restored to his former position, don't you know that Joseph got excited about his own possible release! He asked the Butler to remember him ... and was assured by the Butler that he would indeed do just that. I suspect every time the door of the prison opened, he expectantly and eagerly went to see who was coming with what news! I wonder how long he watched? The first verse of chapter 41 tells us the total time period ... 2 years. I wonder how many days passed before Joseph stopped looking eagerly at the door. I wonder if there came a time when he did not even look up.
Genesis 40:23 tells us that the Butler forgot Joseph. After all ... his life was back to normal. And Joseph is forgotten. Being forgotten tends to do one of two things. Being forgotten ... being overlooked ... can embitter a person. Have you ever been on that side of the fence? Someone forgot a promise? You were overlooked and felt totally invisible and disregarded? If you have, you know the temptation to let bitterness set roots down in your own spirit. It's deadly. Paul says in Ephesians 4: 31 to "Put away from you all bitterness and wrath and anger and wrangling and slander, together with all malice ..."
The writer of the book of Hebrews tells us in Hebrews 12:15: "See to it that ... no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble, and through it many become defiled." Bad stuff ... bitterness. Is there any root of bitterness trying to grow into a mature plant in your soul? Go to God ... ask the Spirit of God in you to chop that thing down! It may take some forgiveness on your part. It may take A LOT of forgiveness on your part!
Being forgotten did not seem to embitter Joseph ... instead, it seemed to steady and deepen his character. Disappointment, monotony, being forgotten and ignored, do not have to make you rebellious and bitter. It will take the power of God ... but God can handle that!
We must remember ... God does not forget His people ... EVER! Men do ... men (and women) forget. Have you ever forgotten your child somewhere? I left my baby #3 in the church nursery one Sunday because I was not used to picking her up. And the wildness of getting #s 1 and 2 into the car with all bags and bows in tow ... I forgot her. God does not forget His people ... EVER! He did not forget Noah while Noah sat on a boat for 120 days. He did not forget Saul while he waited, blinded, in Damascus for 3 days. He did not forget ... He waited. There is a huge difference. He did not forget Joseph ... He was waiting ... for the right time ... for the maturing ... for the mellowing ... for the readiness.
There are 3 lessons for us to learn as we think about this "forgotten" business.
1. Stop trusting in men ... all of whom are ultimately undependable. Stop entrusting yourself, your ultimate well being, into the hands of man. Isaiah 2:22 "Stop trusting in man, who has but a breath in his nostrils. Of what account is he?"
2. When disillusioned with men, turn your focus to the love and faithfulness of God. Timothy tells us in 2 Timothy 2:13 that even when we are faithless, God will forever be faithful.
Remember Proverbs 3: 5 - 6?
And listen to Jeremiah 17: 5, 7:
3. The third lesson is practice waiting on God. It's so hard in our culture - our instant gratification world - our no-wait mentality. God does not work on our timetable. He never has worked according to man's wisdom ... and He will not begin with you! God told Joseph how long the butler and the baker had to wait - 3 days. He did not tell Joseph how long he would have to wait for his release. And Joseph waited ... and continued to do his work, in prison, honorably and with integrity.
Take the following words from Isaiah 40: 31 and turn them into your own prayer today. Where are you having to "wait"? Where have you been "forgotten"? Never doubt ... God has not forgotten you!
But those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who depends on flesh for his strength and whose heart turns away from the Lord ... But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
October 22, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 7 Day 3
Genesis 38 is a detour from our Joseph story. The chapter is about Joseph’s brother, Judah. Remember, Judah is the son of Jacob through whom the lineage of Messiah will come, not through Joseph. The chapter is quite a “soap opera” read! If you have time, read it – especially if you think your family is the only one that messed up!
But for our study, Joseph’s story continues in Genesis 39. Read that chapter and then come back for some observations. I have a hard time imaging the circumstances – even though I know there are people in our world who must live through horrific things. The chapter is full of positive examples for you and me to follow. I will offer three … you will most likely be able to add more.
1. First, I am impressed by the quality of work Joseph offers. There seems to be no self-pity from this young man. He works with excellence and with integrity. Did he enjoy his work? I doubt it. Did he consider the work beneath him? Perhaps. Was the work intellectually stimulating? I doubt it. Was it meaningful? Who knows. The point is … IT DOES NOT MATTER!! He does his work with excellence and integrity. I am reminded of the words of Paul in Colossians 3:17:
Potipher was his boss (his master, actually) but Joseph “worked as unto the Lord”. Did Joseph like Potipher – maybe. Did Joseph respect Potipher – maybe so, maybe not. And so the question comes to us … whether we work outside our homes as well as in – or if our work in primarily inside our home … do I do my work with that attitude? Is there room for improvement in that arena? Excellence and integrity, girls!
2. The second thing that impresses me is that Joseph was a blessing to those around him – Potiphar’s entire household and enterprises were blessed because of the presence of Joseph. Am I a blessing to those around me? Do I want to be … or do I just want to receive blessings? I can hear the words of Jesus in Matthew 5: 43 – 48:
3. The third thing that I want to emulate from Joseph’s example is the way he managed temptation. Potiphar’s wife was less than subtle in her intent and approach. And that’s an understatement! Did you notice the way Joseph responded? He did not justify behavior that he knew to be ungodly. He could have … after all, he was a slave. After all, she was his superior. After all, he was a young man. After all, the house was empty and who would know. Joseph recognized that sin is always a violation of God. He first appealed to her integrity by referring her back to her husband. That didn’t work. So Joseph then appealed to her by referring to his God. That didn’t work. The only thing left was for him to run. And it cost him dearly. I think about what James said in James 4: 7 – 8a:
And Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:13:
So, take the example of Joseph. Resist, girls! Don’t stay in a situation where you are tempted – particularly sexual temptation. It is never something to flirt with – to play with. Sometimes … you just run. Even when the cost is great.
There is a theme that runs throughout this chapter. Let’s close today by reflecting on that theme. Did you notice it?
And hear the voice of Jesus as He says to you …
But for our study, Joseph’s story continues in Genesis 39. Read that chapter and then come back for some observations. I have a hard time imaging the circumstances – even though I know there are people in our world who must live through horrific things. The chapter is full of positive examples for you and me to follow. I will offer three … you will most likely be able to add more.
1. First, I am impressed by the quality of work Joseph offers. There seems to be no self-pity from this young man. He works with excellence and with integrity. Did he enjoy his work? I doubt it. Did he consider the work beneath him? Perhaps. Was the work intellectually stimulating? I doubt it. Was it meaningful? Who knows. The point is … IT DOES NOT MATTER!! He does his work with excellence and integrity. I am reminded of the words of Paul in Colossians 3:17:
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
Potipher was his boss (his master, actually) but Joseph “worked as unto the Lord”. Did Joseph like Potipher – maybe. Did Joseph respect Potipher – maybe so, maybe not. And so the question comes to us … whether we work outside our homes as well as in – or if our work in primarily inside our home … do I do my work with that attitude? Is there room for improvement in that arena? Excellence and integrity, girls!
2. The second thing that impresses me is that Joseph was a blessing to those around him – Potiphar’s entire household and enterprises were blessed because of the presence of Joseph. Am I a blessing to those around me? Do I want to be … or do I just want to receive blessings? I can hear the words of Jesus in Matthew 5: 43 – 48:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy’. But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brother, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”BE a blessing, girls … family, colleagues, neighbors … BE a blessing.
3. The third thing that I want to emulate from Joseph’s example is the way he managed temptation. Potiphar’s wife was less than subtle in her intent and approach. And that’s an understatement! Did you notice the way Joseph responded? He did not justify behavior that he knew to be ungodly. He could have … after all, he was a slave. After all, she was his superior. After all, he was a young man. After all, the house was empty and who would know. Joseph recognized that sin is always a violation of God. He first appealed to her integrity by referring her back to her husband. That didn’t work. So Joseph then appealed to her by referring to his God. That didn’t work. The only thing left was for him to run. And it cost him dearly. I think about what James said in James 4: 7 – 8a:
And Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:13:
“No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.”
So, take the example of Joseph. Resist, girls! Don’t stay in a situation where you are tempted – particularly sexual temptation. It is never something to flirt with – to play with. Sometimes … you just run. Even when the cost is great.
There is a theme that runs throughout this chapter. Let’s close today by reflecting on that theme. Did you notice it?
“The Lord was with Joseph …” (verse 2)
“… the Lord was with him …” (verse 3)
“… the Lord blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph.” (verse 5)
“… the Lord was with him; He showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.” (verse 21)
“… the Lord was with Joseph …” (verse 23)
And hear the voice of Jesus as He says to you …
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)
Lord, we pray that You, through Your Spirit, will grant us the wisdom and then courage to be women of excellence and integrity. We pray that we, too, be a blessing to those around us. And Lord, gives us eyes to see the temptations that satan hurls our way – both the subtle and the overt. And because of You … our desire is to stand firm.
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and He will come near to you.”
October 20, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 7 Day 2
Read Genesis 37: 12 - 36 ... then come back!
In today's passage, we observe a truth that is played out over and over throughout history ... even played out in our own day ... sometimes in our own families. Jealousy and envy ... they lead us down a most horrific path. In fact, jealousy even leads us to do things that we would not even imagine in our right mind. They plant seeds of hatred ... and hatred leads to thoughts of murder ... often to the act of murder. Why do you think Jesus told us in Matthew 5 to deal with our anger before our anger deals with us? He knew where unaddressed anger goes ... and it is always ugly. We know why these brothers did what they did ... we find out in Acts 7:9 "Because the patriarchs (Joseph's brothers) were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt." So there is no mystery here. Jealousy did its dirty work.
Do you struggle with it in any arena of your own life? Do you find yourself envious of someone else ... either what they have or what they do? Before you can answer perhaps we need a definition to clarify the issue. According to the "Greek - English Lexicon of the New Testament", the Greek word used in Acts 7:9 means, "a state of ill will toward someone because of some real or presumed advantage experienced by such a person." I can see why Joseph's brothers were jealous. Now, what about me? You? Ill will toward someone ...
Remember, if you are a believer ... if you have been called by God to walk in His light ... if you are set apart unto God ... then you must deal with this thing. Spirit of God ... help us see ourselves ... help us eradicate this ugliness from our own lives and spirits.
Listen to some wisdom from scripture ...
Job 5:2 "Resentment kills a fool, and envy slays the simple."
Proverbs 14:30 "A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones."
Proverbs 27:4 "Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?"
Envy not only drove Joseph's brothers to feign his death and sell him as a slave, it led Jesus' brothers, the Jews, to plot His death. Even Pilate recognized that. Matthew 27:18 "For he (Pilate) knew it was out of envy that they had handed Jesus over to him." This is ugly stuff indeed!
It is part of our flesh. It is part of our humanity. And it must be crucified! In writing to the early Christians, Paul said, "Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature." (Romans 13: 13-14)
He goes on to write to the Christians in Corinth about their immaturity and worldliness. To them (and us!) he writes: "You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you , are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere men?" (1 Corinthians 3:3)
James, in his book, writes: "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice."
We could go on ... but it becomes quickly evident that the child of God cannot harbor this characteristic of worldliness.
So today is for confession. Ask God to show you any envy that resides in your own heart. Do you harbor any ill will toward someone? Take that hurt ... that jealousy ... that feeling of being overlooked ... that sense of unfairness ... Take it to prayer.
The beginning of the road of jealousy may look relatively harmless. But, one thing I learn from Joseph's story in these verses today ... the end of the road is dark indeed!
So, my friends, let's get off the road! And by the power of God ... we can do it!
In today's passage, we observe a truth that is played out over and over throughout history ... even played out in our own day ... sometimes in our own families. Jealousy and envy ... they lead us down a most horrific path. In fact, jealousy even leads us to do things that we would not even imagine in our right mind. They plant seeds of hatred ... and hatred leads to thoughts of murder ... often to the act of murder. Why do you think Jesus told us in Matthew 5 to deal with our anger before our anger deals with us? He knew where unaddressed anger goes ... and it is always ugly. We know why these brothers did what they did ... we find out in Acts 7:9 "Because the patriarchs (Joseph's brothers) were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt." So there is no mystery here. Jealousy did its dirty work.
Do you struggle with it in any arena of your own life? Do you find yourself envious of someone else ... either what they have or what they do? Before you can answer perhaps we need a definition to clarify the issue. According to the "Greek - English Lexicon of the New Testament", the Greek word used in Acts 7:9 means, "a state of ill will toward someone because of some real or presumed advantage experienced by such a person." I can see why Joseph's brothers were jealous. Now, what about me? You? Ill will toward someone ...
Remember, if you are a believer ... if you have been called by God to walk in His light ... if you are set apart unto God ... then you must deal with this thing. Spirit of God ... help us see ourselves ... help us eradicate this ugliness from our own lives and spirits.
Listen to some wisdom from scripture ...
Job 5:2 "Resentment kills a fool, and envy slays the simple."
Proverbs 14:30 "A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones."
Proverbs 27:4 "Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?"
Envy not only drove Joseph's brothers to feign his death and sell him as a slave, it led Jesus' brothers, the Jews, to plot His death. Even Pilate recognized that. Matthew 27:18 "For he (Pilate) knew it was out of envy that they had handed Jesus over to him." This is ugly stuff indeed!
It is part of our flesh. It is part of our humanity. And it must be crucified! In writing to the early Christians, Paul said, "Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature." (Romans 13: 13-14)
He goes on to write to the Christians in Corinth about their immaturity and worldliness. To them (and us!) he writes: "You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you , are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere men?" (1 Corinthians 3:3)
James, in his book, writes: "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice."
We could go on ... but it becomes quickly evident that the child of God cannot harbor this characteristic of worldliness.
So today is for confession. Ask God to show you any envy that resides in your own heart. Do you harbor any ill will toward someone? Take that hurt ... that jealousy ... that feeling of being overlooked ... that sense of unfairness ... Take it to prayer.
The beginning of the road of jealousy may look relatively harmless. But, one thing I learn from Joseph's story in these verses today ... the end of the road is dark indeed!
So, my friends, let's get off the road! And by the power of God ... we can do it!
October 19, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 7 Day 1
We are ready to fan some pages of history before we settle down into our next character study. We will begin our study of Joseph in Genesis 37. However, to keep some chronology in order ... let's do a brief history lesson to get straight on names and big events.
Genesis 24 (which, by the way, is the longest chapter in Genesis!) tells of Abraham sending his trusted servant back to his family to find a suitable bride for his son, Isaac. A woman from Canaan would not do. It is a beautiful love story. The servant finds Rebekah, the daughter of one of Abraham's brothers ... and she agrees to travel with him and become Isaac's wife. She and Isaac have two sons, Jacob and Esau. It is through Jacob that the promised Messiah will come. Jacob marries 2 women, Leah and Rachel. Rachel he wanted ... Leah he got! In a race for babies, each of his wives "give" him their handmaids to father more children. So there are 4 women, 12 sons and 1 daughter. It makes interesting reading - especially if you think that families are messed up only in our day and time! (Genesis 29 - 30) Jacob has 12 sons ... and Joseph is one of those boys. He is not the oldest ... not even close. His mother is Rachel, Jacob's beloved wife. Nor is Joseph the one through whom Messiah will come. But he provides many examples for us to follow ... so we have much to learn ... and much to apply as we examine this man's life.
We will pick up the story when Joseph is 17 years old. Read Genesis 37: 1 - 11.
We do not need to do too much "imagining" to understand the family dynamics at play. Jacob was an older dad. Joseph was his 11th son ... BUT the first born of his best loved wife, Rachel. Verse 2 tells us that Joseph "reported" on his brothers to Jacob. We don't know what that report entailed. Was it something that needed to be told? Sometimes that is the case. There are circumstances that desperately need to be reported. When a friend or someone you love is trapped in a sin, it needs to be told. Help needs to be sought. When someone is heading down the death road of alcohol and drug abuse, it needs to be told. When you know of someone in danger, it needs to be told. When abuse is happening, it needs to be told. But ... there are things that need not be told! Was this something that fit the category of "telling on" his brothers? Did it just reek of "tattle-tale" stuff? We don't know what the bad report was ... I can't help but wonder if it was the second type because of the fuel that it seemed to add to the jealousy and resentment of the brothers toward Joseph.
And I wonder ... do you have siblings? Do you remember how it felt to be "told on"? If you do ... you are able to step right into the emotions of this story!
The next thing we learn is that Jacob loved Joseph more than any of his other children ... and they all well knew it. It was no secret. The favoritism was flagrant. So we are not surprised to learn that his brothers could not stand him! And to add insult to injury, Jacob made a special cloak for Joseph. Most commentators describe this cloak as one that would represent authority. Another opinion is that it was a full garment - not the short version that was common - not the sleeveless style that was common - but one of nobility - one that was worn by the more elite who did not have to work. Whichever it was ... it was special. The other sons did not have one. Imagine how that settled with the older brothers. Jacob has set the stage for hatred, for jealousy, for resentment. And how often it happens in family!
Parents ... are we careful about valuing each of our children? Do we pray about ... and reflect upon ... ways to communicate unique value and worth to each child that God places in our families? The larger your family - the harder the task!
You read about Joseph's dreams. And they are amazing. Was Joseph wise to tell them to his brothers - or were these dreams messages from God for Joseph's ears only? Again, we can't be sure. But my sense is that Joseph was unwise to share the message. Well, he is 17 - and while that age was considerably more grown up in his day and time than it is in ours - I still think about his being only 17. And I wonder if Joseph's favored position has bred a sense of self-importance in him. Perhaps it was his way of explaining to his brothers why he really was better than them - why he deserved his special treatment. After all, even his father and mother are pictured bowing down to him.
This lack of wisdom reminds me of Jesus' words in Matthew 7:6. He said:
Jesus, Himself, did not answer Herod when interrogated by him. He chose silence. (Luke 23:9)
And so ... we must ask ourselves ... am I too quick to speak? Do I spend any time in prayer over what to speak about and what to keep between myself and God? You can tell your Lord all things. Talk everything over with Him. And, I believe, His Spirit will give you discernment about when to speak and when to be silent with others.
In this instance ... Joseph should have been silent. But he was not ... the arrogance of youth and entitlement and favored position spoke out ...
Genesis 24 (which, by the way, is the longest chapter in Genesis!) tells of Abraham sending his trusted servant back to his family to find a suitable bride for his son, Isaac. A woman from Canaan would not do. It is a beautiful love story. The servant finds Rebekah, the daughter of one of Abraham's brothers ... and she agrees to travel with him and become Isaac's wife. She and Isaac have two sons, Jacob and Esau. It is through Jacob that the promised Messiah will come. Jacob marries 2 women, Leah and Rachel. Rachel he wanted ... Leah he got! In a race for babies, each of his wives "give" him their handmaids to father more children. So there are 4 women, 12 sons and 1 daughter. It makes interesting reading - especially if you think that families are messed up only in our day and time! (Genesis 29 - 30) Jacob has 12 sons ... and Joseph is one of those boys. He is not the oldest ... not even close. His mother is Rachel, Jacob's beloved wife. Nor is Joseph the one through whom Messiah will come. But he provides many examples for us to follow ... so we have much to learn ... and much to apply as we examine this man's life.
We will pick up the story when Joseph is 17 years old. Read Genesis 37: 1 - 11.
We do not need to do too much "imagining" to understand the family dynamics at play. Jacob was an older dad. Joseph was his 11th son ... BUT the first born of his best loved wife, Rachel. Verse 2 tells us that Joseph "reported" on his brothers to Jacob. We don't know what that report entailed. Was it something that needed to be told? Sometimes that is the case. There are circumstances that desperately need to be reported. When a friend or someone you love is trapped in a sin, it needs to be told. Help needs to be sought. When someone is heading down the death road of alcohol and drug abuse, it needs to be told. When you know of someone in danger, it needs to be told. When abuse is happening, it needs to be told. But ... there are things that need not be told! Was this something that fit the category of "telling on" his brothers? Did it just reek of "tattle-tale" stuff? We don't know what the bad report was ... I can't help but wonder if it was the second type because of the fuel that it seemed to add to the jealousy and resentment of the brothers toward Joseph.
And I wonder ... do you have siblings? Do you remember how it felt to be "told on"? If you do ... you are able to step right into the emotions of this story!
The next thing we learn is that Jacob loved Joseph more than any of his other children ... and they all well knew it. It was no secret. The favoritism was flagrant. So we are not surprised to learn that his brothers could not stand him! And to add insult to injury, Jacob made a special cloak for Joseph. Most commentators describe this cloak as one that would represent authority. Another opinion is that it was a full garment - not the short version that was common - not the sleeveless style that was common - but one of nobility - one that was worn by the more elite who did not have to work. Whichever it was ... it was special. The other sons did not have one. Imagine how that settled with the older brothers. Jacob has set the stage for hatred, for jealousy, for resentment. And how often it happens in family!
Parents ... are we careful about valuing each of our children? Do we pray about ... and reflect upon ... ways to communicate unique value and worth to each child that God places in our families? The larger your family - the harder the task!
You read about Joseph's dreams. And they are amazing. Was Joseph wise to tell them to his brothers - or were these dreams messages from God for Joseph's ears only? Again, we can't be sure. But my sense is that Joseph was unwise to share the message. Well, he is 17 - and while that age was considerably more grown up in his day and time than it is in ours - I still think about his being only 17. And I wonder if Joseph's favored position has bred a sense of self-importance in him. Perhaps it was his way of explaining to his brothers why he really was better than them - why he deserved his special treatment. After all, even his father and mother are pictured bowing down to him.
This lack of wisdom reminds me of Jesus' words in Matthew 7:6. He said:
Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.We learn in Ecclesiastes 3: 7 "There is a time to speak and a time to be silent."
Jesus, Himself, did not answer Herod when interrogated by him. He chose silence. (Luke 23:9)
And so ... we must ask ourselves ... am I too quick to speak? Do I spend any time in prayer over what to speak about and what to keep between myself and God? You can tell your Lord all things. Talk everything over with Him. And, I believe, His Spirit will give you discernment about when to speak and when to be silent with others.
In this instance ... Joseph should have been silent. But he was not ... the arrogance of youth and entitlement and favored position spoke out ...
Lord, may we know when to speak and when to be still. May we know what to address and what to leave alone. Hold my tongue, Lord, when it needs to be held. And loose my tongue, Lord, when it needs to speak the things of You. For wisdom ... we pray ...
October 15, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 6 Day 3
Abraham has passed the supreme test. He has shown himself, he has shown Isaac ... that nothing that we have or are or hold cannot be safely released into the hand of God. I must ask myself ... and I must ask you ... what are you holding onto that you think you just cannot release to God? This most difficult question must be considered if we are to truly "walk by faith".
Today, we will close our journey with this faithful friend of God.
Read Genesis 23.
Sarah dies and Abraham mourns. What a close and intimate relationship the two of them had. And I think it was unusual in that particular time and culture. Women were purchased - traded - bargained with and for - property. And yet we watch this man, the one that God chose, treasure his wife. And we watch Sarah honor and respect her husband. When Peter is writing about women in his letter, he says,
Read Genesis 25: 1 - 10.
Obviously, Abraham's rejuvenation from God that allowed him to father Isaac did not immediately leave him! He fathers 6 more sons by another wife. Amazing. Don't miss verse 5. Abraham now has fathered 8 sons: Ishmael, Isaac, and these 6 boys by Keturah. He takes care of all of them ... evidently making sure they were provided for ... BUT ... his inheritance goes to Isaac ... not shared ... just Isaac. Because Isaac was the son of the promise ... the son of the inheritance ... the lineage of our Lord.
And Abraham breathed his last at the age of 175 ... full of years. He was buried in the cave he had purchased to bury Sarah. Notice that this is the ONLY piece of actual land in Canaan that Abraham owns at his death. God's promises included the whole land ... and that would come about. It just does not come about in Abraham's lifetime. We have such short eyesight! Continue to persevere in prayer for those you love ... and TRUST God with the timing.
Abraham is buried and scripture says, "he was gathered to his people." Who were his people? Perhaps the writer is referring to physical lineage ... but I think the reference is to the people of faith. People who choose to hear ... to serve ... to worship the God of the universe. Are those "your people"? Are they mine? If you belong to Christ ... if you have accepted Him as your Lord and experienced the new birth of the Spirit ... you are Abraham's seed. So his people are your people. People of faith.
Today, we will close our journey with this faithful friend of God.
Read Genesis 23.
Sarah dies and Abraham mourns. What a close and intimate relationship the two of them had. And I think it was unusual in that particular time and culture. Women were purchased - traded - bargained with and for - property. And yet we watch this man, the one that God chose, treasure his wife. And we watch Sarah honor and respect her husband. When Peter is writing about women in his letter, he says,
"Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight. For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful. They were submissive to their own husbands, like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her master. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear." (1 Peter 3: 3 - 6)If you are married, how can you live out Sarah's example in your own life and marriage? We would do well to spend some time thinking about how to do just that. Of course, in no way does this suggest that you submit yourself to an abusive husband where there is danger for yourself or your children ... but that is certainly not the circumstance in which Sarah found herself. She honored her husband ...
Read Genesis 25: 1 - 10.
Obviously, Abraham's rejuvenation from God that allowed him to father Isaac did not immediately leave him! He fathers 6 more sons by another wife. Amazing. Don't miss verse 5. Abraham now has fathered 8 sons: Ishmael, Isaac, and these 6 boys by Keturah. He takes care of all of them ... evidently making sure they were provided for ... BUT ... his inheritance goes to Isaac ... not shared ... just Isaac. Because Isaac was the son of the promise ... the son of the inheritance ... the lineage of our Lord.
And Abraham breathed his last at the age of 175 ... full of years. He was buried in the cave he had purchased to bury Sarah. Notice that this is the ONLY piece of actual land in Canaan that Abraham owns at his death. God's promises included the whole land ... and that would come about. It just does not come about in Abraham's lifetime. We have such short eyesight! Continue to persevere in prayer for those you love ... and TRUST God with the timing.
Abraham is buried and scripture says, "he was gathered to his people." Who were his people? Perhaps the writer is referring to physical lineage ... but I think the reference is to the people of faith. People who choose to hear ... to serve ... to worship the God of the universe. Are those "your people"? Are they mine? If you belong to Christ ... if you have accepted Him as your Lord and experienced the new birth of the Spirit ... you are Abraham's seed. So his people are your people. People of faith.
Lord, thank you for preserving the story of this amazing man of Yours. Thank for providentially insuring that both the successes and the failures are recorded for us. May we walk in his footsteps. May we listen for Your voice. May we respond in obedience. We commit ourselves anew this day to walking by faith, not by sight.
October 13, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 6 ... Day 2
If it has been a couple of days since reading Genesis 22, read again Genesis 22: 1 - 19
There is so much to consider in these verses, I struggle with which direction to take us. I will suggest a few things ... but feel free to post your own observations and challenges from this passage ... it is phenomenally rich!
Chapter 22 begins with the words, "Some time later". How much later? We don't know exactly. We know that Isaac was most likely weaned at about 3 years old. That was the custom of the time. Piecing together the bit of ages and chronology that we have, Isaac is most likely anywhere between teen years and possibly 25 to 30 years old. He is no toddler when this event occurs. He is most likely young and strong ... and his father is quite old. In fact Abraham needed a donkey to begin the journey ... he needed to ride rather than walk. We must not miss those facts as we read ... Isaac could certainly have overpowered his elderly father and gotten away had he so desired. It is his willingness to go with his father ... to carry the wood himself ... to most likely crawl up on the altar to be bound ... that previews for us the coming sacrifice of Jesus on our behalf. That willingness. That surrender to the father's will.
Chapter 22 tells us that God sends Abraham to the "region of Moriah." Why so far? It is about 30 miles from the region of Beersheba where Abraham was currently living. He has an altar there. Why not use that one instead of the journey, the building, the carrying supplies, etc? Again, there is foreshadowing of the coming sacrifice of our Lord. The region of Moriah is the area where Jerusalem will stand ... the Temple ... and nearby, Mount Calvary. The location was so precise. So the little company begins the journey ...
When studying scripture, there is a "principle of first mention" which has to do with noting when and how an important word or concept is first used in scripture. "The context of that mention sets the pattern for the words primary usage and develpment all through the rest of Scripture". (Henry Morris, "The Genesis Record") Chapter 22 is the first time we see the word, "love". Such an important, key word in the entire Biblical story ... and here is its first usage. The first occurance of the word is not in relationship to a man and a woman ... nor to a mother and child ... not brotherly love ... or love of country or family or tribe ... not even love of man for God ... but of a father's love for his son. All love subsequently flows from a father's love for his son ... for God's love within the Trinity. And another foreshadowing of our coming Savior is seen. And speaking of "firsts" ... the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke) are 3 different portraits of Jesus ...
First use of "love" in Matthew:
There is so much to consider in these verses, I struggle with which direction to take us. I will suggest a few things ... but feel free to post your own observations and challenges from this passage ... it is phenomenally rich!
Chapter 22 begins with the words, "Some time later". How much later? We don't know exactly. We know that Isaac was most likely weaned at about 3 years old. That was the custom of the time. Piecing together the bit of ages and chronology that we have, Isaac is most likely anywhere between teen years and possibly 25 to 30 years old. He is no toddler when this event occurs. He is most likely young and strong ... and his father is quite old. In fact Abraham needed a donkey to begin the journey ... he needed to ride rather than walk. We must not miss those facts as we read ... Isaac could certainly have overpowered his elderly father and gotten away had he so desired. It is his willingness to go with his father ... to carry the wood himself ... to most likely crawl up on the altar to be bound ... that previews for us the coming sacrifice of Jesus on our behalf. That willingness. That surrender to the father's will.
Chapter 22 tells us that God sends Abraham to the "region of Moriah." Why so far? It is about 30 miles from the region of Beersheba where Abraham was currently living. He has an altar there. Why not use that one instead of the journey, the building, the carrying supplies, etc? Again, there is foreshadowing of the coming sacrifice of our Lord. The region of Moriah is the area where Jerusalem will stand ... the Temple ... and nearby, Mount Calvary. The location was so precise. So the little company begins the journey ...
When studying scripture, there is a "principle of first mention" which has to do with noting when and how an important word or concept is first used in scripture. "The context of that mention sets the pattern for the words primary usage and develpment all through the rest of Scripture". (Henry Morris, "The Genesis Record") Chapter 22 is the first time we see the word, "love". Such an important, key word in the entire Biblical story ... and here is its first usage. The first occurance of the word is not in relationship to a man and a woman ... nor to a mother and child ... not brotherly love ... or love of country or family or tribe ... not even love of man for God ... but of a father's love for his son. All love subsequently flows from a father's love for his son ... for God's love within the Trinity. And another foreshadowing of our coming Savior is seen. And speaking of "firsts" ... the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke) are 3 different portraits of Jesus ...
First use of "love" in Matthew:
Matthew 3:17 "And a voice from heaven said, 'This is My Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.'"First use of "love" in Mark:
Mark 1:11 "And a voice came from heaven: 'You are my Son, whom I love; with You I am well pleased.'"First use of "love" in Luke:
Luke 3:22 "And the Holy Spirit descended on Him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: 'You are My Son, whom I love; with You I am well pleased.'"What about the gospel of John? I suspect you are sitting down ... and it is a good thing because ... the first mention of "love" in John is:
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."This amazing love ... this Father to Son love ... has been extended to you and I! And we are stunned into silence. Abraham to Isaac ... God to His Son ... God to me. Are you willing to give yourself ... all that you are and have ... into the hands of this God? The God who initiates love ... who extends love.
Amazing love ... how can it be?!
October 11, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 6 Day 1
We have reached our last week of focus on Abraham. Next week we will turn our attention to Joseph.
However, before we move to Genesis 22, I want us to think about trials and tests. We are so well acquainted with the concept while we are in school. We have studied a particular subject ... and we are tested over what we have learned. How well do you know it? Good tests require the student to apply the knowledge. Regurgitation of facts is not particularly useful. And so teachers write tests to see if their students have internalized the concepts that have been presented and to see if they can use the concepts to solve problems. Well ... that is the goal anyway!
Abraham's walk with God has included several tests - several trials. With each trial, I believe that God is saying to Abraham, "Let's see what you have learned. How will you deal with this situation now that we have walked together for these years." We watch Abraham fail some of those tests ... and we see him pass others with flying colors! Sounds a bit like you and I , no? I pass some ... and I fail some.
Read James 1: 2 - 8, 12. The Greek word translated, trials, means: to try to learn the genuineness of something by examination and testing; often through use. God sends trials our way, just as He sent them to Abraham. Sometimes, they come through family relationships. For a few minutes, think about the trials and tests that came to Abraham through his family relationships. Lot - Sarah - Ishmael - Hagar. What trials are in your life right now stemming from your family relationships? Can we walk by faith through them? Can we persevere? Can we be mature? Abraham also faced tests and trials that came from people around him. When in Egypt - confederation of kings - Abimelech. Are you in any trials right now that are coming from people around you? Perhaps people at your workplace, or neighborhood, or parent boards and committees? Can we walk by faith through them? Can we persevere? Can we be mature? Remember, a test is to determine the genuineness of something.
Notice the contrast in James 1:13 - 15. Now the word is "temptation". Temptations are not designed to see what you have learned, or to determine the genuineness of something. They are designed for one purpose ... and one purpose only ... your demise! Temptations are designed to cause someone to sin. Different word ... different purpose ... different source. God sends trials our way to strengthen us. Satan sends temptations our way to weaken and destroy us. Never confuse the two!
Abraham is about to face the greatest test of his entire life. He has walked with God for 100+ years. If you have been in church for some time this will be a very familiar story. Don't let the familiarity cloud your eyes. Ask God for fresh vision as you read these verses. To help with that, read a bit more slowly ... even read out loud to slow yourself down. See what stands out to you this time. What do you notice about Abraham? About Isaac? What do you learn about God? Make a note in your Journal on God. Read the passage today ... and we will read it again in Day 2 and make some observations.
Read Genesis 22: 1 - 19.
Lord ... what lessons do you have for me in these verses? How can I apply them to my life right now?
However, before we move to Genesis 22, I want us to think about trials and tests. We are so well acquainted with the concept while we are in school. We have studied a particular subject ... and we are tested over what we have learned. How well do you know it? Good tests require the student to apply the knowledge. Regurgitation of facts is not particularly useful. And so teachers write tests to see if their students have internalized the concepts that have been presented and to see if they can use the concepts to solve problems. Well ... that is the goal anyway!
Abraham's walk with God has included several tests - several trials. With each trial, I believe that God is saying to Abraham, "Let's see what you have learned. How will you deal with this situation now that we have walked together for these years." We watch Abraham fail some of those tests ... and we see him pass others with flying colors! Sounds a bit like you and I , no? I pass some ... and I fail some.
Read James 1: 2 - 8, 12. The Greek word translated, trials, means: to try to learn the genuineness of something by examination and testing; often through use. God sends trials our way, just as He sent them to Abraham. Sometimes, they come through family relationships. For a few minutes, think about the trials and tests that came to Abraham through his family relationships. Lot - Sarah - Ishmael - Hagar. What trials are in your life right now stemming from your family relationships? Can we walk by faith through them? Can we persevere? Can we be mature? Abraham also faced tests and trials that came from people around him. When in Egypt - confederation of kings - Abimelech. Are you in any trials right now that are coming from people around you? Perhaps people at your workplace, or neighborhood, or parent boards and committees? Can we walk by faith through them? Can we persevere? Can we be mature? Remember, a test is to determine the genuineness of something.
Notice the contrast in James 1:13 - 15. Now the word is "temptation". Temptations are not designed to see what you have learned, or to determine the genuineness of something. They are designed for one purpose ... and one purpose only ... your demise! Temptations are designed to cause someone to sin. Different word ... different purpose ... different source. God sends trials our way to strengthen us. Satan sends temptations our way to weaken and destroy us. Never confuse the two!
Abraham is about to face the greatest test of his entire life. He has walked with God for 100+ years. If you have been in church for some time this will be a very familiar story. Don't let the familiarity cloud your eyes. Ask God for fresh vision as you read these verses. To help with that, read a bit more slowly ... even read out loud to slow yourself down. See what stands out to you this time. What do you notice about Abraham? About Isaac? What do you learn about God? Make a note in your Journal on God. Read the passage today ... and we will read it again in Day 2 and make some observations.
Read Genesis 22: 1 - 19.
Lord ... what lessons do you have for me in these verses? How can I apply them to my life right now?
October 8, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 5 Day 3
Isaac is born ... and all attention was now focused on the child of the promise. I suspect Hagar and Ishmael were almost forgotten. That's hard on a boy ... especially one who had been the "only" one in his father's eyes. Abraham loved Ishmael. But ... now ... ISAAC is here! I can understand the probable resentments ... Ishmael is a young teen ... and he has been replaced.
Read Genesis 21:8 - 21.
I am moved by what I learn about God in this reading. I see His mercy and His love so strongly. He took care of Ishmael and Hagar. He met their need. It reminds me that God loves mankind - His special creation. He did not only love Abraham, Sarah and Isaac. Yes, He had a special task for them to do ... a special place in the history of the world ... but He loves mankind. Do we ever get into the realm of deception and believe that God loves perhaps our country ... or our church ... or our "kind" of people better than others? I don't think that is so. God loves mankind ... and He adopts into His own family those whose hearts submit to Him and who choose faith, like Abraham chose. I learn that through Hagar and Ishmael. Even though Hagar and Ishmael were not part of the original plan! And I am reminded that God does not dump me when I run ahead of Him. He can even use my mistakes and failures.
However, I also see that Hagar and Ishmael had to go. They were not part of the promised lineage that would usher Messiah into the world ... and they had to go. They could not dwell together with the line of promise. You see ... they represent all things human ... all things self-reliant. They represent our flesh tendency to think we can take care of our own relationship to the promises of God.
That so often represents our thinking, even subconsciously. That's why Hagar and Ishmael had to go ... they represented that kind of thinking. The promises of God ... the life offered by God ... is ALL from God.
Read Galatians 4: 21 - 31 to gain Paul's insight on these things.
So, what do we do with these insights? You MUST ... I MUST ... cast out the bondwoman! We walk by faith ... only. God does not "owe" me or you. He gives. We are quick to say that we do not earn our position with God ... but then we live like we do earn it ... and we expect others to earn it in ways that we think they should. "While we were sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8) ... not when we got cleaned up. Do you want to be a friend of God, like Abraham? Then walk by faith ... not by sight. Send the 'Hagar and Ishmael' thinking out of your mind ... out of your life. And rest in the freedom and the beauty and the wonder of the reality.
Let's finish this chapter. Read Genesis 21: 22 - 34.
One thing to note in these verses - God gives us another name that He chooses for Himself. It is in verse 33. The NIV translates the name as: the Lord, the Eternal God. This is the first use of the name, El Olam, the Everlasting God. Everlasting ... in our fast-paced, ever-changing, full of death and decay world and culture ... close your study today thinking about our God ... the Everlasting One.
Read Genesis 21:8 - 21.
I am moved by what I learn about God in this reading. I see His mercy and His love so strongly. He took care of Ishmael and Hagar. He met their need. It reminds me that God loves mankind - His special creation. He did not only love Abraham, Sarah and Isaac. Yes, He had a special task for them to do ... a special place in the history of the world ... but He loves mankind. Do we ever get into the realm of deception and believe that God loves perhaps our country ... or our church ... or our "kind" of people better than others? I don't think that is so. God loves mankind ... and He adopts into His own family those whose hearts submit to Him and who choose faith, like Abraham chose. I learn that through Hagar and Ishmael. Even though Hagar and Ishmael were not part of the original plan! And I am reminded that God does not dump me when I run ahead of Him. He can even use my mistakes and failures.
However, I also see that Hagar and Ishmael had to go. They were not part of the promised lineage that would usher Messiah into the world ... and they had to go. They could not dwell together with the line of promise. You see ... they represent all things human ... all things self-reliant. They represent our flesh tendency to think we can take care of our own relationship to the promises of God.
"I'll take care of this, God. Not to worry. Just watch what I can do!"
"I'll be so good, God will just have to let me into heaven!"
"I'll work hard enough, do enough good stuff, right stuff, that God will owe me.""If I work hard enough ... serve enough ... go to church enough ... maybe then God will accept me."
That so often represents our thinking, even subconsciously. That's why Hagar and Ishmael had to go ... they represented that kind of thinking. The promises of God ... the life offered by God ... is ALL from God.
Read Galatians 4: 21 - 31 to gain Paul's insight on these things.
So, what do we do with these insights? You MUST ... I MUST ... cast out the bondwoman! We walk by faith ... only. God does not "owe" me or you. He gives. We are quick to say that we do not earn our position with God ... but then we live like we do earn it ... and we expect others to earn it in ways that we think they should. "While we were sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8) ... not when we got cleaned up. Do you want to be a friend of God, like Abraham? Then walk by faith ... not by sight. Send the 'Hagar and Ishmael' thinking out of your mind ... out of your life. And rest in the freedom and the beauty and the wonder of the reality.
Let's finish this chapter. Read Genesis 21: 22 - 34.
One thing to note in these verses - God gives us another name that He chooses for Himself. It is in verse 33. The NIV translates the name as: the Lord, the Eternal God. This is the first use of the name, El Olam, the Everlasting God. Everlasting ... in our fast-paced, ever-changing, full of death and decay world and culture ... close your study today thinking about our God ... the Everlasting One.
Lord, we worship You this day ... our El Olam, our Everlasting Lord. You are the ONE thing in our lives that does not change - that does not decay - that we can count on to be the same, yesterday, today and tomorrow. What peace of mind and heart that provides! Thank You Lord ... for the assurance, for the security, for the love you offer. Today Lord ... we worship You.
October 6, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 5 Day 2
After the last several lessons ... sin and rebellion, destruction and loss, the reoccurance of deception and half-truths ... it is good to get to this passage! It is good to laugh! It is good to enjoy ... so enjoy your reading today ... read Genesis 21: 1 - 7.
It has finally happened. Sarah has given birth to this promised heir. Her first child ... and she is 90 years old. Her husband is 100. And it is totally, completely, no exception allowed, impossible for the two of them to biologically have this baby. I think that is why God waited so long. It had to be a miracle. Abraham and Sarah had to know it was only by God. And you and I have to know that it is only by God. The birth of this new person is a work of God - not a work of Abraham and Sarah. Miraculous births still happen ... and they are still works of God. In John 3: 3 - 8 we are privileged to hear a conversation between Jesus and a Pharisee named Nicodemus. Listen ...
We cannot leave these precious verses about Isaac's birth without acknowledging that God is a faithful, promise-keeping God. You can trust him. His promises are sure. They will come to be - even if you must wait a long, long time. You may waver, but He will not. You may struggle with disbelief, but He will not. And when you see the fulfillment ... LAUGH!!
In a sermon on September 19, the pulpit minister at the Bammel Church of Christ (my home church) was speaking about promises of God. He prepared a list of 12 for us to consider. I want to share that list with you through this venue. Why right now? Because we are - right now - seeing God fulfill a long-ago promise to His man, Abraham. God's promises are sure. You can count on them ... He will not fail you.
It has finally happened. Sarah has given birth to this promised heir. Her first child ... and she is 90 years old. Her husband is 100. And it is totally, completely, no exception allowed, impossible for the two of them to biologically have this baby. I think that is why God waited so long. It had to be a miracle. Abraham and Sarah had to know it was only by God. And you and I have to know that it is only by God. The birth of this new person is a work of God - not a work of Abraham and Sarah. Miraculous births still happen ... and they are still works of God. In John 3: 3 - 8 we are privileged to hear a conversation between Jesus and a Pharisee named Nicodemus. Listen ...
"Jesus declared, 'I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.'The birth of a new person. A work of God. Have you experienced this miraculous birth ... this miracle of life orchestrated by God Himself? If you are not sure, write me a note and let's talk about it.
'How can a man be born when he is old?' Nicodemus asked. 'Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb to be born!'
Jesus answered, 'I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and teh Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying: You must be born again. The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.' "
We cannot leave these precious verses about Isaac's birth without acknowledging that God is a faithful, promise-keeping God. You can trust him. His promises are sure. They will come to be - even if you must wait a long, long time. You may waver, but He will not. You may struggle with disbelief, but He will not. And when you see the fulfillment ... LAUGH!!
In a sermon on September 19, the pulpit minister at the Bammel Church of Christ (my home church) was speaking about promises of God. He prepared a list of 12 for us to consider. I want to share that list with you through this venue. Why right now? Because we are - right now - seeing God fulfill a long-ago promise to His man, Abraham. God's promises are sure. You can count on them ... He will not fail you.
12 Promises from Scripture
- God's presence -- I will never leave you or forsake you. (Hebrews 13:5)
- God's protection -- I am your shield. (Genesis 15:1)
- God's power -- Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. (Isaiah 41:10a)
- God' provision -- I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10b)
- God's leading -- When He has brought out all HIs own, He goes on ahead of them, and His sheep follow Him because they know His voice. (John 10:4)
- God's purposes -- I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)
- God's cleansing -- If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will fogive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
- God's goodness -- No good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless. (Psalm 84:11)
- God's faithfulness -- For the sake of His great name The LORD will not reject His people. (1 Samuel 12:22)
- God's guidance -- He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way. (Psalm 25:9)
- God's wise plan -- And we know thatin all things God works for the good of those who love Him. (Romans 8:28)
- God's rest -- Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)
So tonight ... rest in the assurance of the promises of God. He promised Abraham and Sarah ... and He did as He promised. He has promised His people ... He is faithful ...
October 4, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 5 Day 1
This week, our lessons will come from Genesis 20 - 21.
Today ... read Genesis 20 and experience a little dejavu!
Did you find yourself a little stunned at this chapter? Not so much stunned by the event itself ... bizarre as it seems to us ... but stunned by the near exact repetition of Abraham's previous sin in Egypt which had such far reaching affects and for which Abraham was chastised by God. You know of "Pilgrim's Progress". Well, this chapter could fall under the title, "Pilgrim's Regress".
What can we learn for ourselves?
Fear is a powerful motivator. I don't believe it is any accident that the instruction from God to "fear not" is the most repeated command in all of scripture. Fear leads us to do things we would not ordinarily do ... and to not do things we know we should do. However, Abraham is not fearful in other circumstances! He went to war against a federation of 4 kings. His fear seems to revolve around Sarah. There is some insecurity there that seems so out of character with the rest of his life. Lessons for us? Where are your strongest insecurities? I think we need to be able to identify them. I think we need to be aware of their powerful impact on our lives ... our decisions ... our behaviors.
Another thing about this sin of Abraham ... we must not miss that it is an old sin - repeated. Did he and Sarah not learn from the earlier experience and rebuke from God? I think they did learn ... back then ... but years have passed. It seems to me that we would be wise to be ever aware of our proclivity toward certain sins in our lives. I think that is why alcoholics are always willing to call themselves alcoholic even when they have decades of sobriety under their belts. They are well aware of the possibility of sudden relapse and failure. We must stay vigilant ... because while I know that God forgives and even forgets ... Satan does neither. Satan knows well our weaknesses and vulnerable areas ... and as soon as our guard is down ... the attack will come. Be on guard ...
A third observation ... while Abraham apparently doubted God's ability to take care of him, it did not change God's ability or willingness to do so. God did not "dump" Abraham because of this repeated lack of faith. Listen to James Boice:
Today ... read Genesis 20 and experience a little dejavu!
Did you find yourself a little stunned at this chapter? Not so much stunned by the event itself ... bizarre as it seems to us ... but stunned by the near exact repetition of Abraham's previous sin in Egypt which had such far reaching affects and for which Abraham was chastised by God. You know of "Pilgrim's Progress". Well, this chapter could fall under the title, "Pilgrim's Regress".
What can we learn for ourselves?
Fear is a powerful motivator. I don't believe it is any accident that the instruction from God to "fear not" is the most repeated command in all of scripture. Fear leads us to do things we would not ordinarily do ... and to not do things we know we should do. However, Abraham is not fearful in other circumstances! He went to war against a federation of 4 kings. His fear seems to revolve around Sarah. There is some insecurity there that seems so out of character with the rest of his life. Lessons for us? Where are your strongest insecurities? I think we need to be able to identify them. I think we need to be aware of their powerful impact on our lives ... our decisions ... our behaviors.
Another thing about this sin of Abraham ... we must not miss that it is an old sin - repeated. Did he and Sarah not learn from the earlier experience and rebuke from God? I think they did learn ... back then ... but years have passed. It seems to me that we would be wise to be ever aware of our proclivity toward certain sins in our lives. I think that is why alcoholics are always willing to call themselves alcoholic even when they have decades of sobriety under their belts. They are well aware of the possibility of sudden relapse and failure. We must stay vigilant ... because while I know that God forgives and even forgets ... Satan does neither. Satan knows well our weaknesses and vulnerable areas ... and as soon as our guard is down ... the attack will come. Be on guard ...
A third observation ... while Abraham apparently doubted God's ability to take care of him, it did not change God's ability or willingness to do so. God did not "dump" Abraham because of this repeated lack of faith. Listen to James Boice:
But the sin did not change God's view of Abraham. Abraham was still "a prophet". He was still God's man.That is so encouraging to me! In all of the New Testament references to Abraham's journey (Romans 4, Galatians 2 & 4, Hebrews 11) this failure is not recorded. You see, with God, forgiveness is forgiveness. God is still sovereign - even over my failure and sin. His purposes will prevail. God is still gracious - even when we sin. That's not an excuse ... it is not a fact to lead us into a cavalier attitude toward sin. It is a remarkable reality that sends us to our knees in gratitude and determination to be ever more diligent in our confession and surrender of self to this kind of God. To serve this God ... the greatest privilege ... the greatest joy ... the greatest opportunity in all the world. This is my God!
September 30, 2010
Abraham/Joseph Week 4 Day 3
Read Genesis 19: 30 - 38 and let's close this chapter ...
This is the last we will hear of Lot. From a splendid beginning ... walking alongside Abram, his uncle and a man of faith ... Lot has spiraled down to this cave, this loss, this tragedy. As Abraham is moving upward from faith to faith ... Lot is moving downward from desire to sin to death. James 1:15 reminds us that "after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death." Lot is the poster boy for Hosea 8:7 "they sow the wind and reap the whirlwind." Is there anything for us to learn from this sadness?
Of course the obvious lesson for us is the spiraling downward path of sin. We have spoken of it before as we have considered Lot and his story. But it is so important for us not to read over it lightly! It is so important for us to deal with the sin in our lives immediately ... no delay ... not harboring it and nursing it along. If you have some nagging, perpetual sin in your life ... stop right now and go to your knees! Heed the warning of Lot. You really cannot play with it and expect to remain un-burned.
Another thought that intrigues me ... James Boice, in his commentary on Genesis, wonders if the angels in verse 17 ... when they told Lot to flee to the mountains ... not to stop anywhere in the plains ... that perhaps they were sending him back to Abraham. If that were so, it would place Lot in the same category with the prodigal son of Jesus' story in Luke 15. He could have gone home. He could have confessed to Abraham and realigned himself with the path of faith. Unlike that prodigal son, Lot evidently did not "come to his senses". Was it pride? Was it an unwillingness to admit to any wrongdoing? And his story reaches it tragic end. Our last view of Lot is in a drunken stupor, fathering 2 sons through his daughters, Moab and Ben-Ammi. And the peoples who come from these boys ... the Moabites and the Ammonites ... will be thorns in the side of Israel. Yes, sin has far-reaching tentacles.
Powerful lessons from Genesis 19 ...
1. Purity matters.
2. Sexual sin is wrong in the eyes of God - always.
3. Judgement from the holy God will come - always.
4. As believers, we are to be separate from sin, not engaged with it. Notice, we are not to be isolated ... but separate. We are to live differently. We are to honor God in our decisions, our bodies, our behaviors.
God, help us take seriously the warnings from Genesis 19.
This is the last we will hear of Lot. From a splendid beginning ... walking alongside Abram, his uncle and a man of faith ... Lot has spiraled down to this cave, this loss, this tragedy. As Abraham is moving upward from faith to faith ... Lot is moving downward from desire to sin to death. James 1:15 reminds us that "after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death." Lot is the poster boy for Hosea 8:7 "they sow the wind and reap the whirlwind." Is there anything for us to learn from this sadness?
Of course the obvious lesson for us is the spiraling downward path of sin. We have spoken of it before as we have considered Lot and his story. But it is so important for us not to read over it lightly! It is so important for us to deal with the sin in our lives immediately ... no delay ... not harboring it and nursing it along. If you have some nagging, perpetual sin in your life ... stop right now and go to your knees! Heed the warning of Lot. You really cannot play with it and expect to remain un-burned.
Another thought that intrigues me ... James Boice, in his commentary on Genesis, wonders if the angels in verse 17 ... when they told Lot to flee to the mountains ... not to stop anywhere in the plains ... that perhaps they were sending him back to Abraham. If that were so, it would place Lot in the same category with the prodigal son of Jesus' story in Luke 15. He could have gone home. He could have confessed to Abraham and realigned himself with the path of faith. Unlike that prodigal son, Lot evidently did not "come to his senses". Was it pride? Was it an unwillingness to admit to any wrongdoing? And his story reaches it tragic end. Our last view of Lot is in a drunken stupor, fathering 2 sons through his daughters, Moab and Ben-Ammi. And the peoples who come from these boys ... the Moabites and the Ammonites ... will be thorns in the side of Israel. Yes, sin has far-reaching tentacles.
Powerful lessons from Genesis 19 ...
1. Purity matters.
2. Sexual sin is wrong in the eyes of God - always.
3. Judgement from the holy God will come - always.
4. As believers, we are to be separate from sin, not engaged with it. Notice, we are not to be isolated ... but separate. We are to live differently. We are to honor God in our decisions, our bodies, our behaviors.
God, help us take seriously the warnings from Genesis 19.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)