Joan of Arc....burned at the stake on May 30th 1431

Joan of Arc, the great heroine of France during the Hundred Years War between the French and the English, was burned at the stake on this day in 1431. Her courage and valor for what she believed in, has been remembered throughout history as one of the greatest military determinations man has ever witnessed.


On the right is a signature of Joan of Arc. Although her letters were dictated, she would sign them at their completion.


First thing of note, Joan claimed to hear the "voices", of which their were 3 different ones she was to have heard. They were St. Michael the Archangel, St. Catherine of Alexandria, and St. Margaret, sometimes known as "Marina".
 St. Michael was the more brilliant and bold figure of the 3 and basically was to have outlined a plan to her in order to liberate France from the English during the "Hundred Years War". In one of her letters, Joan states her reaction to the plan unveiled by St. Michael: "I was a poor girl who knew nothing of riding and warfare".
 The 2 other voices were more of a comfort theme. St. Catherine of Alexandra was a saint Joan prayed to often as a child ( a statue was in her own village), and was known as a virgin martyr born of an influential family in Alexandria. She had converted to Christianity through what is recorded as a vision of Mother Mary, and began to denounce the persecution of Christians by the Emperor Maxentius. St. Catherine dedicated her life to God and was asked in marriage by the Emperor with one requirement...she must deny her faith. She refused.
 She was later imprisoned and was said to have great influence over many she was in contact with for her Christian faith. She was imprisoned and went through numerous questionings, and was then sentenced to be tortured and put to death by being tied to a spiked wheel. Legend says the wheel itself was shattered, and she was beheaded. It is also recorded at her death her body was lifted by angels and carried to Mt. Sinai for an honorable burial.
 Joan of Arc seemed to have much identity with St. Catherine, and it must be noted that although "Christianity" was being spread, it was often in the form of stories passed down from one another on the courage of saints who embraced the Christian faith. The Sacred Scriptures were in Latin, and since most people did not speak or understand Latin, their only way of hearing about Christ Jesus was through the stories of the saints.
 The 3rd voice was from a St. Margaret, who is written to be the daughter of a pagan priest and her conversion to Christianity did not go well with the wishes of her family.
 Margaret was a shepherdess and she too was given opportunity to marry, but instead gave her life totally to God. She was also imprisoned for her faith and was threatened to be burned unless she would recant her Christian faith. She was beheaded  because of her belief in Christ Jesus

 One other thing of note: in the story of Joan of Arc, you read of the heir apparent to the King of France referred to as "the Dauphin". This was a term that was used at that time to identify the heir apparent and was a part of French history going back to identity with "family colors", much like the Scottish would do to identify with a certain clan. 

                                       Joan of Arc

 Born in 1412 in the village of Dememy, France, she was the daughter of a tenant farmer named Jacques Darc. Joan's name became Joan d'Arc which translates into English as Joan of Arc.
 In 1415, the Hundred Years War between France and England was getting intense, and King Henry V of England had invaded France. By 1422, most of northern France was controlled by the English, including Paris.
 Around age 13, Joan began hearing what was to be known as "the Voices" and was committed to doing their bidding. A quote from Joan reads: " Whatever I have done that was good, I have done at the bidding of my voices".
 Meanwhile, King Charles VI of France had passed, and now the Dauphin was his son, who was to be the next king of France. But, because the English had control of parts of France, including the traditional city of Reims where the coronation of the new king of France took place, everything was on hold. On top of that, King Henry VI of England, and infant son of King Henry V, whose mother was Catherine of Valois, the very daughter of King Charles VI of France, was proclaimed by the English as the new King of France.
 So Joan of Arc now comes on the scene because of her hearing the Voices: St. Michael, St. Catherine, and St. Margaret.
 When Joan was about 16, she claimed the voices had told her to aid the Dauphin (French for dolphin) in recapturing France, and particularly Reims so the coronation could take place for Charles.
 At first, in May of 1428, Joan tried to reach the Dauphin but was denied and sent home. Then, in January of 1429 she made another attempt and spoke with the captain of the garrison. He was very impressed by Joan's plea and granted her access to the Dauphin.
 The first time she was in the audience with the Dauphin, he actually hid among the honored patrons to see if she was for real and would be able to recognize him. She immediately went to him and for the next several weeks she was questioned by theologians as to the "call' on her life. It was concluded it would be well-advised for the Dauphin to listen to her and adhere to what this young girl was proclaiming.

 Charles soon provided Joan with a small army, and on April 27th 1429 she set out to regain Orleans in France which was now occupied by the English. She used a guerrilla type tactic ( very rare in those days) and distracted the English on one side and went into Orleans unopposed through its eastern gate. She brought with her greatly needed supplies and the French became very passionate about this Joan of Arc!
 Joan led several battles at Orleans and on May 7th she was struck by an arrow. She dressed her wound, returned to the battle, and on May 8th Orleans was retaken by the French people.
 The French army, now inspired by Joan, attacked Paris. It turned out to be unsuccessful, and Charles himself called off the battle to regain Paris. Yet, the French continued to fight in numerous campaigns.
 In May of 1430, the Burgundians (allies to the English), attacked Compiene, and Joan went into the town at night to aid in its defense. On May 23rd, Joan was captured and then sold to the English.

 In March of 1431, she went on trial...her major crime being rejection of Church Authority in favor of her obedience to the "Voices". She refused to submit to Church Authority, and was sentenced to be executed by civil authority. Joan was shocked and horrified by the verdict, recanted in favor of life imprisonment instead.
 Joan regularly wore male clothes, and was ordered now to dress in women's attire. In only a few days, when she was visited in her cell, she was found again to be in men's clothing, and told the local authorities she had spoke with the "Voices", and they had reprimanded her, particularly St. Catherine and St. Margaret for giving in to the fears of the Church sentencing and demands, and that she should stand strong and fight against it.

 The authorities concluded she was a "hopeless heretic" and on May 30th, 1431, at the tender age of 19 years old, Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in Rouen, France...at a place called Place du Vieux-Marde. Her final request was for a priest to hold a crucifix high for her to see and to shout out prayers that she could hear above the roar of the flames and the screams of the crowd.
 Joan of Arc became a military inspiration for France. her courage, valor, and determination turned the Hundred Years War into the France's favor, and Charles VII went on to regain all of France. The English had relinquished all of its hold on France  by 1458.

 In 1920, Joan of Arc was recognized as truly a great heroine of France, and became a Catholic Saint herself by Church Authority. Her annual Feast Day is May 30th!

What would Solomon be like today?...Gleanings from Proverbs 29: 1-14

I am thinking (I know...can be dangerous) what would Solomon be like if he were alive today? And here is my conclusion...just like he was back then...full of wisdom, caring for others, and probably making "zillions" in the stock market. I think the difference would be for him was to not get "trapped" like he did in the latter part of his life during his reign with Israel.
 I love his "stuff", and so much of it applies today.

 Here is a Gleaning from Proverbs 29:1-14

 " Offering suggestions to someone who is "stiff-necked", with no intentions of changing or making adjustments...is futile...it just doesn't work.
 And no matter how many people tell him the same thing over and over again, the results are the same. Sooner or later his/her troubles get the best of them...all hope is pretty much "shot." Why is that?...because the advice was bad?...No! It was because they were "stiff-necked", and refused to even consider making any changes in their lives.

Do you know the major theme of wicked people who have become leaders?...suffering!...a whole lot of suffering. And what is the major theme of Godly people who have become leaders?...happiness!...a whole lot of happiness!
 Here is something to think about: Did you know a man's wealth can have an effect on his parents? If a man chooses to listen to Lady Wisdom...he will bless his parents. But, if he is just pursuing sex...whether it be one night stands or looking for whores...his money will soon be gone and his parents disgraced. He may even have the audacity to ask his parents for money...just to keep his selfish lifestyle afloat.

 When a king is fair, making the welfare of his people a top priority, the nation remains safe and stable.
 When a king considers and accepts bribes, he puts him and his people at risk...including the very land and nation they have established.

 Be careful when a person uses flattery to gain you as a friend or wants to be a friendly neighbor. It is almost always a trap. Their words may even sound sincere...but they're not. It is a common trick of evil to gain their neighbor's trust, and they really get excited if their neighbor brings them a gift...but in the end, the evil intention of all the flattery is exposed for what it really is...the guy's nothing more than a common thief....a "hardcore" sinner, refusing to obey Yahweh and His Mighty Commands!
 Evil men are often the creators of their own problems, Godly men create much joy...for others! They even sing the "Songs of Joy" to the Lord in honor of His faithfulness!
 Godly people understand and cares about the rights of the poor. The wicked?...they are hard-hearted, selfish, and to make matters worse...they don't even care.

 Making insulting remarks do nothing for others, in fact, it only agitates them and you could draw a large crowd of agitated people if you would continue along that line.
 Now, for a man who is wise...he can even take an agitated crowd...and calm them down, helping them to turn from all the wrath that insults had stirred up.
 When a Godly man takes an emotionally selfish person to court...be ready for a "circus". More than likely, the selfish person will end up acting like a fool. The Godly man's words upsets the selfish man, and the reaction can be totally stupid. He will rant, rave, sneer, shout, laugh, ridicule, or he might go into a rage. He may even try to insult the Godly man. It will end up a mess, emotions "gone wild", and sadly, there will be no solution.

Now, make no mistake about this: cruel and "bloodthirsty" people will hate anyone who believes in living honestly and treating people right. Why? Because an honest person can screw things up for someone who justifies cruelty...honesty convicts them they are not doing right.
 Here is something else to remember: a person who "vents" at any moment is likely to be a fool. A fool who "vents" at the "sound of a hat", has evil motives...and believe me...anything will set him off...and his emotions are "off to the races". A Godly man who exercises Godly wisdom, thinks things through before he responds.

 If you are in a leadership role...but give credence to malicious gossip and lies, people under you will  react like they have a contagious infection. You see, they will do the same thing you do, and you will end up with a snake pit of lies, rumors, and deceptions.
 Here is something else I have noticed: evil rulers and poor people have something in common. They can both see. Evil rulers see what they are doing to the poor, and the poor see how evil their ruler really is. The difference...both have their day coming...but for the evil ruler...it won't be pretty.
 Now, when a king shows care to the poor...he is able to keep the "Cruel Ones" from cheating and exploiting them, and God will see to it the king's throne is secure."

"Don't Go Chasing Waterfalls...."

A lonely mother who loves her son,
Yet she can't seem to reach or get close to him.
When he gets in a jam, she'll be by his side,
The son doesn't realize how he hurts his Mom.

So the son decides to make money,

The best way he knows how.
He gets involved with the "Wicked Ones",
And bad things happen.
In this case, the young boy ends up
Another body...laying cold in the gutter.

This was a great song by TLC, and tells what can happen when we do things our own way...follow the temptations that seem so appealing at times. The chorus line to this song goes:

   "Don't go chasing Waterfalls,
     Please stick to the rivers and lakes that you're used to.
     I know your gonna have it your way or nothing at all,
     But I think you're movin' too fast."

In the second scene of the video to TLC's song, it's about a person following a lifestyle God's Word warns about...."sleepin' around". In this case, the person contacts a type of STD, and dies prematurely.

Waterfalls...are so beautiful. They are often breathtaking, nature on exhibit, an element of peace and excitement...all in one!
 Yet, waterfalls can be illusive...even dangerous, unattainable, and can often hide their power and violent behavior it is capable of doing.

Sometimes as Christians it is tempting to just want a "free nite"...anything goes...go after those temptations that you battle with...some even daily.
Just keep this in thought...Waterfalls in all their beauty...have nothing behind them.
 Lakes and rivers are often serene, and have beauty in their own right. And, for the most part are much safer than a powerful and explosive waterfall.

 Sometimes temptation might whisper in your ear: "Boring... Get a real life...Go to the edge!"
But the truth is, temptations are most often nothing more than illusions...it ends up not being real...and you come to realize temptations are a very selfish...enemy.
 Remember the mother in the video?...Temptation has no concern about hurting others...it's all about self. And here is the real crime, temptations  always contradict the Father's Commands in the Sacred Scriptures.
 TLC says it right:
" Don't go chasing waterfalls,
   Please stick to the rivers and lakes you are used to.
   I know your gonna have it your way, or nothing at all,
   But I think you're moving too fast..."

Here are 2 Gleanings from the Scripture...

Philippians 2:3 " Don't go chasing your own selfish desires, please stick with Him and His "Waters of Life". I know your own interests and desires are wanting it their way, or you will miss the "opportunity that presents itself", but hold on...before you make a move....think it through....think about the consequences...think about others."

Galatians 5:26 " Don't go chasing vain glory and self-motivated ideas. Stick to the Way of Life the Sacred Scriptures declare. I know arrogance and conceit can be very convincing...and alluring...but don't go with them. They are really not what they say they are."
 

Success...do you think you have it?

Success...means different things to people...to us. So, how do you know if you are successful, is it even important to be successful, or why even deal with it?

 Most dictionaries have a rather boring description of success...well, that is my opinion anyway. Basically success is defined:" the achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted". Sorry, but that really doesn't do anything for me.

 I read a quote from someone that I think does carry " alot of weight"...it reads : "Success does not make a person happy, yet, being happy has alot to do with success."
 I think success in life is not measured by the amount of money you have attained, or people you associate with, or even recognition you have received. All those things are ok in themselves, but success to me lies in two qualities of life: 1) a grateful heart and 2) being content.

Here are 3 Gleanings of Scripture that define success for me:

1) Proverbs 22:4 " Your focus...to honor Him. Your priority...to know Him...more and more. Your goal...to always give Him the respect He deserves. And His part?...to provide you with plenty, to live a life with honor, and to have a satisfying life."

2) 1 Timothy 6:6-8 " A life that gives honor to Him...has already achieved success. And how do you know?...because your life emulates contentment.
 Think about it... what have you or I brought with us when we came into this world?...and what can we take with us when our lives enter the "final countdown?"
 Isn't there something to be said about having food and clothing provided for us?...Is there not an element of contentment in knowing we are provided for?"

3) 2 Peter 3:18 " If success is at the top of your list, but not sure how to get there...here's an idea. Start the "journey for success" being grateful...for His loving kindness, add to it His tender understanding for you, and find some comfort in His undeserved favor He gives to us...daily.
 True success then gives a real clue as you travel on your journey...Success proclaims He alone is majestic...He alone is full of splendor, and when you join him in song that gives all glory and honor to Him, success will embrace you...and introduce you to his best friend; "Contentment".

Here are 10 tips that help to cultivate success:
1. Learn to recognize things that may come your way(examples: people with various needs, motives of why you are about to do something, motives of others).
2. Learn to "read" others. Remember, if you don't take control of your own life and all that it entails...somebody will!
3. Learn to discern...matters of the heart. Does creativity and genuine ideas lead the way, or is it some type of fiction that you have "conned" yourself to believe its true.
4. Learn to understand others...don't put expectations on others, save it for yourself.
5. Learn to think things through...a little thought can mean alot.
6. Learn to communicate...clearly. First lesson on communicating effectively?...knowing the "Art of Listening".
7. Embrace the "always yearn to learn" attitude.
8. Healthy attitudes require your own heart to stand watch...don't let someone "pull your emotional chains" and raid and steal what you have kept in your heart. Sometimes it may appear a nice thing...until you have lost something...
9. Learn how to value yourself...think of yourself the way Christ Jesus thinks of you...take it from there.
10. Above all...have purpose...it's essential...to keep on living!

Confidence!...What is that?

      CONFIDENCE

Confidence...we hear about it lot in this day and age. Being confident on your job, being confident among others, being confident...in the Lord.
 The American Dictionary defines confidence as : "a feeling or belief a person can put reliance on, a trust that is firm". Now, the question for me is: 1) are we "talking" self-confidence, 2)a confidence in Christ, and 3) how does one obtain confidence?

 First, there are numerous Scriptures on "how to have confidence in Christ by simply obeying the Scriptures, for obedience to what Christ has spoke enables us to develop a confidence that relies on Christ Jesus and His Commands. Yet, I think the first thing to realize is confidence is a process, as you work on building trust through His Word, your confidence naturally grows with it...but it is a process...and it requires time.
 And self-confidence?...Is that a good thing or bad thing? Again, the way I see it is as your relationship with Christ Jesus grows and becomes closer, just like any other relationship, you do become at ease with what the Lord has given us to follow in His Word, and you develop self-confident simply because you have already experienced His Faithful Word, and discovered it really works...and is quite capable to create good things come your way. And even when nothing seems to be going your way at the moment, you have this trust (in Him) that it will...because that is exactly what the Sacred Scriptures have already done for you.
 I think the greatest enemy we battle against when it comes to confidence is...arrogance. Actually, arrogance has its root in having little or no trust in something, the opposite of confidence, and is a weak foe at its best. True Godly confidence builds up self-esteem, arrogance exposes your lack of self-esteem.
Self-esteem is another subject altogether, although it ties in with confidence. So, allow me to check out some Scripture on this subject: confidence.

 First, there is a Scripture out of Psalm that has been a strength for me when I am reminding myself to put my confidence in Him. It is from Psalm 139: 13-14...and it is in a Gleaning form:
" Here is how You did it! First, You made all the delicate parts in me, those inner parts, then, You wove me together...both inside and out...and all this being done while I was in my mother's womb.
That alone causes me to take this moment to simply marvel at the beauty of it all, it can take my breath away at times pondering all this.
 My entire body, along with my mind, my will, my emotions, and my spirit...all of this came from You...before I even breathed my first breath of air.
 Just the thought that You are the Author of my life brings comfort to me...because You know me...both inside and out! This means You are quite aware where my strengths are and You know my utter weaknesses! You are just too much for me, my King!"

Then, in Hebrews 10:35-36 it goes something like this:
" Don't throw away your confidence, which has been developed in you from the experiences we face in daily life. Also, confidence brings with it great benefits....the equation goes like this: Confidence in Me = Benefits to You!
 And remember this: confidence does not stand alone! Mix your confidence with patience, and let them together have their way in your life. When you choose this, you will have no 2nd thoughts on what My Will is for you...you are already doing My Will!
 Patience has benefits for you also...just like confidence...and these benefits will be there...for you!"

One more thought: "Confidence" has Latin origins...meaning "to confide". Who better can we confide in.... He made us in the first place".

Mirrors...Face....Heart...what's the connection?...Gleanings from Proverbs 27:19

In Proverbs 27:19 it reads:

" As water reflects the face, so a man's heart reflects the man." (NIV)
"As in water, a face answers to a face, so the heart of man...to a man," (KJV)
"Just as water mirrors your face, so your face mirrors your heart." (The Message)
"You see your face in a  mirror, and your thoughts in the minds of others." (Contemporary Eng.)
"As faces are not alike, so hearts are not alike." (Aramaic Version)

Quite a variety of thought in that one statement. In English dictionaries, "mirror" is defined as: anything that gives a true representation or description.
 In this verse of Scripture, a mirror is used to understand better a person's heart. In the Old Testament alone, the word heart is mentioned 855 times. In Jewish train of thought, my understanding is in the Jewish mind the heart of a person is everything...his attitude, his desires, his motives, his intellect,...basically everything that makes ups a person.

 Often how we see ourselves is affected by how each of our lives have developed. Some have been "beaten down", others have been manipulated over and over, while others have faced abuse.
 Then, there are those like the kitten, who sees himself as a strong lion. So, then the question arises, how we see ourselves in a mirror....is it accurate of who we really are?
 One avenue is: "How do your friends and those around you see you? Are you to be trusted?...are you honest?...do you show concern?" According to this verse of Scripture, your friends can act as a "mirror" as well.

From a Christian outlook, here is what I have experienced in life: human nature is pretty much the same. Like I have mentioned before, we often here the phrase "history repeats itself", well, I'm not so sure it does...but this I have noticed: "human nature repeats itself"...that is a definite!
 For me, what can give us an honest reflection of who we are....is God's Amazing Grace at work in our lives.
 Pain, hurt, and even the scars of life can "cloud our vision" at times...even when we are looking straight into the mirror! God's Grace and His mercy working its way into our hearts....can change how we look...both ourselves and how others see us as well.

 Then, we find ourselves doing things we probably would not ordinarily do...and the benefits are good...both for others and for ourselves. I think of the Swedish Proverb which through Christ we are able to do...it goes like this; "Love me when I least deserve it...because that is when I really need it."

 Sometimes looking at ourselves through God's Grace is humbling, for it makes us quite aware we look a lot better with His Grace operating in our lives. Martin Luther ran into this thought in 1521, when he was writing on the Sermon of the Mount series, he wrote: " You see, He is making the birds our schoolmasters and teachers. It is a great and yet an abiding disgrace to us that in the Gospel, a helpless sparrow should become both a theologian and preacher to the wisest men...whenever you hear a nightingale, you are listening to an excellent preacher! It is as if he were saying: " I prefer to be in the Lord's kitchen, for He has already made both heaven and earth, and He Himself is both cook and the Host! And look! Everyday He feeds and nourishes innumerable birds...out of His very Hands!"

Looking in the mirror...can be misleading...because your mind tells you things that may or may not be true. Take an honest look...what do you see?...Let me ask you..."Do you see Him yet?"

Anger...part 2...Jesus displays anger at the Temple

Man, this anger thing can get real intense...there are so many ways to approach it.  But for me, I am going to "keep the reins tight", and keep these thoughts with anger to a minimum.
 First, my Pastor sent me a couple of thoughts that are worth noting on the subject of anger. He writes: " Some people think what makes anger a "holy anger" is...if the person who is angry is in the right or not. Has a real sense of justice been violated?"
 He then goes on and shares this: " The difference between our own self anger and a "righteous anger" is whether: 1) the wrong that has been done is against yourself, 2) is the wrong against someone else, or 3) is the wrong against the Lord Himself?'
 He concludes with these thoughts: " There is really no such thing as a "righteous anger" if its only goal is to make things right for your own self. True "righteous anger" only comes when it is directed to assist and help others, or if it simply to confirm what God says in the Scriptures."

 I like that...because for me it singles out what is a consistent theme throughout the Sacred Scriptures...we live to serve and help others, and to honor God. Notice too, he did not say we "defend" God in a righteous anger, we simply confirm to others what God has proclaimed. God is quite capable of defending Himself, yet we can express a "righteous anger" when we see God's Word being used for evil.

 Now, on to Jesus and the Cleansing of the Temple....

 The big question!! Did Jesus cleanse the Temple twice?  Numerous Bible scholars point out the "Temple Story" is told in John 2 at the beginning of His ministry and then in Matthew 21, at the end of His earthly ministry.
 Personally, I think it was once, because of this reason. The Jewish writing of that era was one that would "build a case" and gather the facts. Chronological order wasn't a priority....the facts were. So, whether He cleaned out the Temple once, twice, or even numerous times...the real question for me is...why?  What caused Jesus to get angry?

 At this time in Jerusalem, during Passover the place was "packed". The Temple itself had been enlarged by Herod, to make the event more of a financial success and take in more income...to produce more "tax money".
 The Sadducees of the Jewish hierarchy had "priestly authority" over the events going on at the Temple, and for example, to offer the sacrifice of a dove or lamb, there was a 1/2 shekel Temple tax to perform this offering.
 Often people brought sacrificial animals with them, but the one big requirement, they could not have any blemish. A number of animals would be rejected by the Temple priests...but there were "pre-approved" animals at the Temple a person could purchase. (Reminds me of auto-sales jokes and stories...."I'm sorry we found a blemish on your animal...but we can help you still get what you want!) The problem?...the unblemished animals for sale were a little "pricey"... some Bible historians claim they were up to 20 times the going rate. (Have you ever gone to a professional sports game, like baseball or football... and bought food or merchandise...kind of the same thing.)
 Also, because of various nationalities coming to Jerusalem for the Passover, money exchange was necessary. Tyrian coinage was preferred, Roman coins were rejected. The charge for exchanging your money money to be used in the Temple...could be as high as a 25 to 30% charge to do the exchange.

 All this money exchange and purchase of animals were being done in the outer court of the Temple...known as the court of the Gentiles. It was in this place a Gentile could come and make himself right before the Lord through prayers, while the Jewish people could go into other places within the Temple.
 So, what had basically happened was the "outer court" wasn't that important to the "Jewish place of sacrifice", so they used the area to conduct business.
 In Mark 11:17, Jesus response to what was going on...that is after He had drove all this "business" out of the outer Temple was: "The Scriptures declare My Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations, but you have turned it into a den of thieves."

 This is the real root cause, at least to me, what caused Jesus to get angry. The buying and selling of animals, the taxes imposed, or the money exchange were not what really triggered His anger (although this was "sickening" as well)...it was the fact a Gentile could not enter a "house of prayer" because of all the "business" that was going on.
 Did Jesus actually hit anyone? The Scriptures do not say He did...what He did do was knock over the tables of the merchants, knock over the benches of those selling doves, and did use a type of leather strap...to drive out the animals. Also, it is worth noting He drove out both the buyers at the moment this all took place as well as those selling.
 Was Christ anger under control?...yes, it certainly was! How do I know...look at the results right after He had done this. When a person is mad or out of control on anger...he needs to be pulled away..get out of the situation...at least for the moment. Look what Jesus did!
 Was His action justified?...well, going back to my own pastor's earlier comments...who is getting the glory? Was Jesus acting selfless? Did others benefit from this action? I think the answer to these questions are: yes...yes...and yes.

Here then is a Gleaning from Matthew 21: 12-14:

 "Jesus went straight to the Temple, entered, and began to drive out everyone who was selling or buying...because they were doing this in a Sacred place.
 He turned over the 4 foot tables of the moneychangers as well as benches being used by merchants to sell doves.
 He said, "My House is designated as a house of prayer, but this is nothing more than a hangout for thieves."
 Now, after Jesus had done this, there was now room for the blind...for the cripple...to get in. They came to Jesus...and He healed them."

Notes:
1. Doves were offerings given by the poor.
2. Earlier in Matthew, chapter 10, verse 16...it reads:
   " Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves: be wise as serpents...and innocent as
       doves."
3. A few verses later in Matthew 21, the priestly authority of the Temple were "MAD" at Jesus because they could hear children in the outer Temple (where the money changers and sellers had been) singing praises...to God!
4. This "MADNESS" of the Jewish priesthood caused them to think of a way to have Christ Jesus be put to death.

Anger...Is it a bad thing...or is there some good things about anger?

Anger...now this is a subject to give some thought to....

 Usually, when the word anger is brought up...it comes with a negative implication, and often times that is a correct assessment. Yet, there are times one can justify anger....I think it is referred to as " a righteous anger". The problem comes when a person justifies their anger by saying it is a "righteous anger",  the truth of it is...they are not being righteous at that moment nor is it really anger...they are just flat mad! Now, is there a difference between being mad and having anger? Hmmm? I just thought about that...I need to check this out...I just perked my interest! See, I am just a simple guy...doesn't take much to get my attention.

 Here is something for the guys who have girlfriends or wives: If you want to send yourself "straight to hell"...in fact I dare you to try this one. The next time your wife or girlfriend is upset over something (especially something you messed up or didn't do that you were suppose to), go get the biggest Bible you have in your home, open the Scripture to Proverbs 21:19, and read it loud (with a little passion)...in fact give it a little "affectionate touch" and read aloud: "Honey, the Bible says: It's better to live alone in the desert than with a quarrelsome, ill-tempered, or complaining wife."
               Then: Prepare to meet Jesus...your work on earth is done! (lol).

Ok then: anger. Anger is defined: "A strong feeling of dislike or a displeasure. It is a resistance to a mistreatment of yourself or someone else. It can be hostile when expressed."
 For those of you who have a curious nature in them, "mad" is defined: " A wildly, excited, disorderly, foolish, and often rash state of mind. Often there is no logic to its flare-up and in certain cases is found wildly amusing."
 So, there is a distinct difference. Anger is capable of being in a controlled state, being mad does not carry that luxury. I would conclude "mad" is never a good thing...but anger...I need to look at that a little more.

 Ok, here is a "bigee" people often use when relating to anger: "Jesus was angry...He beat up those money changers in the Temple...right?" So, I need to take a look at what really happened there and see what triggered Jesus to get angry....and yes, He was angry....but 1) What was He angry about? and 2) Did He actually use a whip on anyone?. There are some other things I can think of to look at....but allow me to start with these 2.

First, often times in the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), events that took place during Jesus time on earth are not always recorded in all 4 Gospels. Also, some things written about a certain event is covered in much more detail in one Gospel than in another.
 Well...this event was "big news". All 4 Gospels wrote on this one: kind of like a "press release",  some news is "no big news" while others everyone is there: CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS, BBC,....you name it...they are there!
 Jesus getting angry...got every one's attention! So, I start here.

My first question: What was Jesus really angry about? My second question: Is God allowed to get angry like that?

But for now, I have to wrap this up: I have to go to work....that makes me a "little angry"...but, I'm not mad! (lol)

P.S. I know I am writing from a strictly guy's perspective...feedback from women are deeply respected and most welcome...where would "guys" be today without the influence of a woman?...hmmm? I wonder if Adam thought about that? Just kidding!!!
E-mail: moriahjg7@gmail.com

Think First...Before You Act!...Gleanings from Proverbs 14:21-35

Proverbs are often thought provoking....and can be applied to everyday life! I like that...that is where I need it the most!

                                                 Gleanings from Proverbs 14:21-35

 " It is actually a sin to ignore your neighbor in need. And, it is almost criminal to belittle or hate your neighbor as well.
 Instead, to get God in on your daily life and attitudes, show compassion...be merciful...demonstrate kindness...to those in need or are struggling not to remain poor.

 Here is a serious mistake...making a plan that has evil origins. Plotting and devising a scheme to hurt another...will only bring hurt upon yourself, you will end up feeling alone...as well as lost.
 Now, if you choose the "Way of Mercy", and purposely give out loving kindness to others, and remain faithful and loyal to a friendship...this will bring His love...His Mercy...directly to you.

Take a moment and remember this: hard work can bring good paydays, while just talking about it...won't get it done. The fact is, poverty will be your  next guest instead.
As far as wealth is concerned, being wise brings you a wealth of Wisdom, being foolish brings you a wealth of stupidity.

 When you need a witness to vouge for you, look for the honesty and integrity in the individual you choose to assist you...this person just might save your life!
 A witness who is a liar...can endanger your life and end up being a traitor to you.

Having a deep reverence and a respect for the Lord is like a Spring of Living Water living inside of you. It boosts your inner confidence and even your family will sense a security in having this type of protection.....like being enclosed in a strong fortress.
 Besides, taking a drink from the Spring of Living Water within you keeps you from those deadly traps in life...and you won't drink from poisoned water as well.

 The mark of a good leader...is the multitude of people who hold their leader in honor. What good is a leader that no one wants to follow?

 A key to the people who have understanding...is their ability to control their anger. Losing your temper shows how foolish you can really be.
 In fact, a calm and peaceful heart can have a positive influence on your health, while a person who lets their emotions get the best of them leaves little to be desired...a person appears foolish and sometimes even stupid.

 Here is another "tragedy waiting to happen", a person who oppresses the poor and exploits the powerless. When you choose to do this, you insult the One who made them...that being God Himself.
 If you can make kindness and mercy the governing guide on caring for the poor and the powerless, you then give honor to the One who made them...that too being God Himself.

 The "Wicked Ones" are overthrown and crushed...through their own wrongdoing. These "Wicked Ones" either forgot or were not aware that calamity and disaster were on their "team" as well.
 The "Godly Ones"...the Innocent, on the other hand, they are safe even when death is knocking at their very door.

 Did you know Lady Wisdom finds her rest in a heart of understanding? As for fools, they don't even know what she looks like.
 Giving honor to the Lord can build a strong nation, giving place to sin...can destroy a nation...whether it is strong or weak.

 Finally, a king takes his delight and rewards his servants that follow after Lady Wisdom, while it is disgraceful to the king when a servant is foolish and brings shame to the king. And what makes matters worse...the foolish servant has now aroused the king's anger.


  

Take God's Word into your heart, God takes you into His heart...Gleanings from Proverbs 14:14-20

In everyday life, don't you find it it true there are some people you just "love" being with, while  others you avoid "like a plague".
 I realize sometimes it is just our differences in personalities, but then there are some...

                                     Gleanings from Proverbs 14:14-20

 " Here is how I see life working from my viewpoint:
1. If you treat others in a mean way, you get "paid back"...in a mean way.
2. If you decide in your own heart that God and all He has to offer us...is not for you...then you will get results that declares God is not for you as well.
3. If you are faithless by your own choice, and "blow off" trying to honor God or obey His Mighty Commands, it shows up...sometimes "on down the road"...but it will show up...one person has coined it: "The Regretful Results of Life".

Now, on the other hand...

1. If you apply God's Grace to others you meet, you will receive God's Grace in your times of need.
2. If you decide and take God's Commands to your own heart...God takes you into His heart.
3. If you remain faithful and do your best to honor God's Mighty Commands, the blessings of God come directly to you for submitting to those very Commands.

Here is something else to take note of:

 The problem with being so gullible in life, in fact some call it being "simple-minded"... is this: you end up believing any and everything somebody tells you.
 I have found it better to take a little time and "weigh out" the words you are told, put some thought into it, and consider the course of action needed...before you take any steps.
 The reason why is a wise man is cautious, he might even suspect danger just by the way things are presented to him. Then, he will position himself to avoid any possible dangers that may be lurking.
 The foolish guy...that's a different story. The word "cautious" is not in his vocabulary, and he is usually short-tempered...especially when things go wrong. For it is in that moment he relies on his own self-confidence, which even feels secure to him...but in reality...it is reckless and takes him down a path called "Regret".
 The real thing I learned from "the foolish ones" is: short-tempered people do...short-tempered things. There are no thoughts to support their actions, and the results of all these quick and hot-headed decisions lead to a series of regrets in life as well.
 And you know what is even more disgusting?!... a person who actually schemes a plan...to do something evil to another person. People like that have cold hearts...and are hated by those around them...if the truth were told. You can never put any trust in people who act like that.

 The bottom line to all this: if you choose, and yes it is a choice...to act stupid in everyday life, eventually, even the clothes you wear will reflect stupidity.
 The person who chooses to get a grip on life, to do a "reality-check", will realize it is better to learn prudence, practice how to be wise in everyday life...for then Knowledge will be the crown on their head that sees them through...any situation!
 In the end, it is always the same. People who choose to follow the "Ways of Evil" will bow and surrender...in fact some will even crawl, when they come into the presence of those who have chosen a different path, that is, to obey His Mighty Commands, for it will be evident to all the "good" it has brought to the hearts of all those around them.

 If your life boils down to consistently saying negative stuff, if all life is to you is one defeat after another, then you truly are poor...and have earned the crown "Loser". And trust me, no one wants to hang around people like that.
 Yet if you choose to encourage others, if you can see the"good" in everyday life, and if you put your heart into following the Lord and His Mighty Commands, there simply is no adversity that can overtake you...you truly are rich. People all around will be drawn to you...for they will want what is inside of you!

"Lady Wisdom"....Gleanings from Proverbs 14

I love to read Proverbs and get some cool ideas on how to take in daily life...it helps to keep things in perspective for me...like this one out of Proverbs 14: 1-13:

"A woman's family can be made strong and held together by relying on "Lady Wisdom" for advice and guidance...
 Yet, at the same time if a woman of a family stops is to get advice from "Sir Fool", she can tear down her family...brick by brick.

 Whoever shows respect for life, lives honestly, and takes the path that leads to Integrity...choices like these gives respect and honor to the Lord Himself.
 Then there are those who think being deceitful, despising others, and are generally contrary to the respectful way of life: will get them to where they need to be ... man, are they in for a surprise!
 The only thing they have done is allowed their actions to speak loud...against the Lord Himself!

 When someone simply talks...for the sake of talking, it usually brings with it words that are not only frivolous...but are often times flat stupid!
 Words that are chosen carefully...are adorned with Wisdom...and just might save your life!

 It is true: a stall can stay nice and clean...by remaining empty and have no animals. But here is the thing, when it comes time for the gathering of the crops and reaping a harvest...wouldn't it be better to have animals to help bring in larger loads?
 If someone approaches you and says:" Excuse me, but could you tell me what happened over there?", just tell them what exactly you had seen...don't make anything up! Otherwise, you'll end up being called a liar.

 If you mock and criticize what "Lady Wisdom" cries out, where do you think that will get you?
Instead, remain humble and keep your mind open (you may find you don't know everything), for it is in that frame of thought you might look out your doorstep...and who is there for you?..."Lady Wisdom" and her faithful companion "Knowledge"...waiting to greet you!

 If you run into a bunch of fools...don't hang with them!...move on...and do it quickly! Trust me, their "trash-talk" and stupid ideas are nothing more than a waste of your time....let alone a waste of words.

 True Wisdom is godly, and it can cause a person to begin to grasp and understand His Ways...which then will give you a purpose to everyday life...you will have some sort of direction in your life that will take you to new and exciting adventures.
 As for fools...don't listen to them...they are nothing more than "self-confident" idiots that will lead you to a "path"...actually it is a big ditch!...with warning signs posted everywhere: "Wrong Turn: This ditch is contaminated with...Deceit"
 In fact, this is how stupid fools can be...they will actually ridicule the right things a person should do in everyday life...and will encourage others to choose the wrong things instead!
 The thing fools miss on this train of thought ( other than not having a brain) is this: God will bless you..when you do what is right...because it pleases Him...and brings benefits to you! Kind of an important "piece of the puzzle"...don't you think?

 Don't let anyone fool you...no one can "read" your own heart...but you. Each heart knows the taste of Bitterness, and each heart knows the taste of Joy!

 The house built on "Evil Concepts"...eventually end-up looking like shacks that need torn down. Homes built on "God's Grace"...end-up looking like beautiful cathedrals!


 And remember: Don't allow yourself to be fooled! There are always ways in life that look good...from the "outside". In fact, they may look even right...if not harmless!
 But, if your daily life's encounters are not built on God's very own "Lady Wisdom"...it will lead to the same place all other choices that are made that does not welcome God....straight to the pits of Hell itself! Just thought it would be a good idea to serve as a reminder! (lol)...well, kinda.

God...He will do it Again! Gleanings from Genesis 22:5

Abram...what a fellow! Most importantly, he has a great friend...that being God the Father! According to the Sacred Scripture, and what Jesus has wanted us to have...above all else... Jesus wanted us to allow God become... our Father... and our friend as well.

 In Genesis 22:5, Abram is about to give up Isaac as an offering to his friend, who is our God. Many Bible scholars have written on this event that compare this offering of Isaac to Christ Jesus going to the Cross for each one of us. Here are a few things that are pretty cool:
1. Both Abram and Christ referred to the Father as a friend. (Christ of course makes it perfectly clear God is His Father).
2. Both the sacrifice of Isaac and the sacrifice Christ gave for us was out of obedience to the Father.
3. Both had to carry wood up a hill for their sacrifice.
4. Numerous scholars think the Abram-Isaac sacrifice and the place of the Cross...could have been the very same place.
5. Abraham and Isaac commenced the offering on the 3rd day, Christ Jesus arose...on the 3rd day.

 Also, Genesis 22 is a landmark for the introduction of new terms. The word "test" was first written of in verse 1. The word "love" was first used in verse 2. The word "worship" was introduced for the first time in verse 5.  The word "obey" also appeared for the first time in verse 18.
 Abram brought into this chapter a new "benchmark"; that being to know God as a close friend. I think it was unheard of in Abram's time, and people struggle with this concept today...knowing God as a friend. I don't know of any other religion that puts such as emphasis on this. And Jesus, He has made it possible for us.

  Religions of Abram's day right up to our present day has often failed to understand this whole concept...God wanting to be our personal friend. People are willing to give up something, commit to saying prayers for hours, give money, join good causes for all kinds of things, try to live up to good morals....almost anything...except the one thing He really wants from us...our friendship.
 It's not that all those other things are of value, but if we think that any of those things will somehow give us "an in" to Heaven or God Himself...we are all missing it. That is the whole reason Jesus came...Heaven can not be earned....we simply have to accept His Plan...and this Plan is centered on Christ Jesus, and the work He did at the Cross.....Ok, back to Abram.

 In Genesis 22:5, it goes something like this:
  "Abram said to his 2 servants: " You guys need to stay with the donkey while I and the boy go on a little farther, because we need to worship, and then, we'll come back and get both of you."

 Ok, I think Abram was giving a major key to knowing his friend God...and that is when he said: "we need to worship". Worship according to Hebrew origin means to "bow down."
 So, picture this for a moment. Abram had been obedient since God first mentioned about the sacrifice of Isaac, and as he arrives at the place God has designated, Abram does not mention to God..."Hey, I am here, both Isaac and myself, just like You asked...maybe this will help You to think twice about what You are wanting done here." Instead, as soon as Abram got there with Isaac, he knew he needed to take the time...to worship!...to bow down, to put trust in, and to know his Friend will never disappoint Abram or Isaac.
 The thing that strikes me is Abram's trust that "rose to the top" during this major event going on in his life. Abram had grown in faith...and had deepened his friendship with God. Abram knew when He first promised him and Sarah a son...it was impossible due to their age in life...but His friend did it for them...anyway. Now, Isaac is about to be sacrificed...and the same Friend who caused Isaac to arrive in the first place...is the same Friend who will do it...again!

 A while back I happen to come up with a prayer before a meal which appealed to me, and it was inspired from the story of the "Road to Emmaus". Anyway, the prayer starts out like this: "Gratefulness...is given to You my King! For, You have done it again!...bringing food for us, from Your very earth!..."

 I think in this powerful verse of Scripture in Genesis 22:5, Abram was showing us the value and trust of having God as your friend. It may not always make sense, and you may receive much criticism for trusting in this friendship, or it may seem "all is lost"....just remember....He can...He will...do it again! 

 "When the Ultimate Child cried: " My God, My God, Why have You forsaken Me?"....The price was paid...in silence."  Edmund Clowney

Abraham-Isaac Sacrifice...Part 10...A Mature Friendship

This is a Gleaning from Genesis 15:13-16. Here is the amazing thing to me...God spoke to Abraham on some of the troubles his descendants would have...but they would survive!
 Earlier in the chapter God had just spoke to His friend Abram and explained how well it would be for him in regards to his descendants...Abram would have a large family.
 Yet here, God speaks to him and tells him about the rough times that would come for his descendants...like the 400 years of slavery in Egypt.

 My experience with true friends is this: honesty is the highest virtue a person can have when it comes to friendship. 
 Honesty is defined as: " a fairness and being straightforward in your conduct toward another. It is being adherent to the facts in a most sincere way." A true friendship involves integrity that has a proven track record with a person who you refer to as "your friend."

 Here in Genesis God does not "paint a picture" like you might see in a Walt Disney movie. He doesn't hold back from telling Abram the trials his descendants will face. It's not going to be a "walk in the park" for Abram's beloved family...but they will come through it.
 The "deep sleep" that Abram falls into is described by many Bible scholars as a night Christ Himself was to face, God's own Son, on the night of His betrayal.
 The friendship between Abram and his friend God, had grown deep...and Abram's friend now shares with him...things to come...

 " As the sun was about to set, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and a terrifying horror, a shuddering fear, a great darkness that was both heavy and dreadful..came upon Abram.
 In the midst of all this sense of terrible darkness, God spoke to Abram and said:" You need to know this, I will not "paint some picture" that is not there. Your descendants will face difficult times , they will be like foreigners living in a land that is not theirs, a land that does not belong to them.
 They will be afflicted, oppressed, and even forced into slavery...and it will last a while...400 years. They will be slaves, they will be mistreated and wore-out as slaves to a people of Egypt.
 But, judgment day will arrive...and the punishment for all the atrocities they have done to your descendants...will be rectified...and your descendants will find their freedom, and march out of Egypt with great possessions, and get to their point of destination in due time...and will take possession of their true land...and will receive much more!

 Now Abram, as for you, you will not see any of this. Instead, you will live out your life in peace, and be buried at a very old age.
 Yet, when the time of slavery in Egypt has concluded, and My punishment is accomplishing its given task to the Egyptians, your descendants will receive much wealth and have numerous possessions.
 Many generations will have passed, then your descendants will return to their God, prepare to enter a Promised Land to them, and find their comfort...in me!
 And the Amorites, who had dwelled in the Promised Land, but had not yet seen their destruction as your descendants move toward them...will see for themselves the Glory and the Promise,...the fulfillment of what I have promised you...Abram!"

 The Sacrifice of Isaac...what was Abraham thinking when his Friend (God) had revealed to him all this?....  

Abraham-Isaac Sacrifice...Part 9.. Being a friend...

As I give some time and study to Genesis 22 and the sacrifice of Isaac, there seems to be a lot of background to this story and how all these things developed.
 Think about this for a moment:
1. Abram first obeyed "The Call" to leave the land of Ur when he was 75 years of age.
2. Ishmael was born when Abram was 86 years of age.
3. Abram was 100 years old when Isaac was born.
4. Bible scholars estimate Isaac was somewhere between 20 to 37 years of age when he was to be offered up to the Lord as a sacrifice. That would put Abram at somewhere between 120 and 137 years of age.

 So, Abram had been believing the promises the Lord had spoke to him....for approximately 50 years! That to me is a startling thought. He had these promises in his heart...and now...50 years of believing God and the promises he had been given... were about to..."go up in smoke?"
 Abram had a long time to think....to think about all of God's promises. He also had by the time of the "Sacrifice", had nurtured a relationship with God to the point he was God's friend.

 There is something to be said about being God's friend. Here are a few commentaries I have read on this particular subject.
Clarke's Commentary:
 "A "friend of God" is the highest character ever given to man. Friends have everything "out in the open" between themselves. God took Abram into an intimate communion...with Himself!
 God, who is never in want because He possesses all things, enabled Abram to never be  destitute...because he was God's friend."
Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible:
" He (Abram) was loved by God with an everlasting love, and God shared His love with Abram by His very acts of friendship. God blessed Abram, and Abram was blessed with increase...because God is full of increase.
 Abram loved God, and made himself friendly to Him...by doing the following:1) believing every word God spoke to him, 2) readily complied to follow after God's Will in his own life, and 3)yielded an overall cheerful obedience in following God's Will.
 Abram became well-known even among the eastern nations of that time. Abram was called in the Koran as "Khalil Alla"...the friend of God. This is the highest honor any mortal can be given.
God simply took Abram...as His friend."
Vincent Gill's Word Studies:
 "In the Septuagint ( the Greek manuscripts of the Old Testament), the phrase "friend of God" has its origin in these words: "thy beloved".
Matthew Henry Commentary:
 Henry writes that being a "friend of God" is not an exclusive club. He suggests "it is made possible by the same principle Abram demonstrated, that is, to believe God and what He tells you.
 Based on that principle, Rahab the harlot is classified as a "friend of God's"...because she too believed God and what He would do."

 A British publication once offered a prize for the best definition of the word "friend". Among some of the more noted answers were:
1. "One who multiplies joy, divides grief, and whose honesty is inviolable."
2. "One who understands us, even when we are silent."
3. "A volume of sympathy wrapped in a cloth, to wipe away any tears."

 The #1 answer: "A friend is the one who comes in...when the whole world...has gone out."

One dictionary defines a friend as: " a person whom we know and is aware of our likes and dislikes, one who has won over our trust and confidence..a person we are relaxed to confide in...and let "our guards" down."

 Jesus said in John 15:12-15: " This is My Commandment, that you love one another....as I have loved you. Greater love has no man than this: that someone lay down his life for his friends. You...are My friends, if you do what I have commanded you. No longer do I call you My servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing, but I have called you My friends, for all that I have heard from My Father...I have made known to you."

Abraham-Isaac Sacrifice...Part 8

There is much to think about and consider before making any judgment or drawing any conclusion about Abraham and Isaac...at the sacrifice in the land of Moriah.
 One thing I am really starting to realize about Abraham and the Lord...their friendship was deep, and at times intense.
 In my own life, I have not had too many friends that are of the depth Abraham and the Lord had during this time in Genesis...in fact I could easily count them on one hand.
 I am not '"talking" just a friend, I am referring to a friend that knows everything about me..the good...the bad...and the ugly (don't you just hate cliches). These two were "tight"...and liked each other a whole lot, in fact...I think their love for one another ran "deep"...real deep!
 Knowing this (now), this really puts a whole different outlook as Abraham prepared to offer Isaac to the Lord as a sacrifice...he was already convinced before the 3 day journey began...this was going to be a great thing!...both for himself and for Isaac. In fact, I think Abraham was  excited for Isaac as he prepared the sacrifice...more than he was for himself!
 Abraham had drawn close to the Lord. His love for the Lord was as strong as his love for Isaac, and he knew this: if he (Abraham) loved Isaac so much...how much more does the Lord love Isaac?
 There is so much focus on Isaac and the sacrifice itself, Abraham "lifting the knife" etc., and many commentaries and summaries  see this as a "total time of stress" and an almost "nightmare experience for both Isaac and Abraham"...I don't know. I am not "feelin' it"...in fact , I think this is more like getting ready for the 7th game of a World Series, or the 4th quarter of  the Super Bowl...and the game is tied! I am starting to think both "these guys were pumped"...and I think someone else is pumped too...that being the Lord Himself!
 Look at Isaac. He has been commended by many for his willingness...his obedience to lay upon the altar and let Abraham pile the wood on his chest and be the offering  prepared by his own father.
 Ok, Isaac is to be commended for his willingness to follow his father's instructions to what appears the very end. Yet, who in their right mind would just offer themself up without wondering...what's goin' on here? The only thing Isaac had said in Genesis 22 was: "Where is the sheep for the burnt offering?"... I'll get back to that later....
  Genesis 15:1-6... might give an idea how close Abraham and the Lord really were in regards to their friendship:

 "Some time later, the Lord came to Abram...through a vision, and spoke to Abraham saying: "Don't be afraid Abram, don't let your mind tell you that you will not have an heir. Have I not defeated all those who have challenged or come against you?, and I will continue to do so...I am your shield and will protect you.
 Your reward in all this is great, and as you trust  Me through this, and our friendship grows,... the rewards I have for you grow as well!

 Then Abram responded to what the Lord has spoke: "Lord, truly You are sovereign, and I know in my own heart You are all-powerful, and You have given me everything I could ever ask for...or even dream of. But, if I live my entire life enjoying You and all You have provided... and have no one to pass all of these things to, or to share with someone what a joy it is to have a friend like You,  what is the purpose in all this? Do I give all this to Eliezar of Damascus, a servant within my household?...simply because his name means: "son of the possessions"?
 Abram continues: " Look, it's no secret...to You or me...You have given me no children, and all I have to look forward to as far as passing all this on...is to a servant in my household."

 Then the Lord replied to Abram: "No, that is not the way it it going to happen. Now listen to Me: you will have a son! Trust me...it is really going to happen! He will be the heir...your heir...of all I have given you and all we have!"
 After that, the Lord took Abram outside, and said to him: " Look up in the sky. See all the stars? Count them...count them all!...if you can. That will give you an idea how many descendants you will have...your descendants!...you are going to have a big family Abram!"

(Note: here in verse 6 lies what I consider a real key to Abraham and how he viewed the sacrifice of Isaac).

" And Abram TOOK REST in what the Lord had told him. He totally trusted and relied on what the Lord SPOKE TO HIM, and kept this deep within his heart...he would not budge from all that God had shared with him.
 AND THIS IS EXACTLY WHY GOD DECLARED ABRAM RIGHTEOUS...BECAUSE OF HIS COMPLETE TRUST IN WHAT THE LORD HAD TOLD HIM."
 Hmmmm...

The Abraham-Isaac Sacrifice...part 7

This "Isaac Sacrifice" is getting more in depth as my study continues. I am at Genesis 22:5, yet there seems to be so much background to this momentous event, I have to pause and consider other matters before continuing in Genesis 22.
 Right now my thought is this: "What promises had God already spoke to Abraham that was in his heart and mind as they (Isaac and Abraham) began their 3 day journey to Moriah?"

 So, I am wanting to look at what God, the trusted friend of Abraham, had promised to him. It appears the promises God spoke to Abraham were two - fold: 1) a "material" promise, that being land itself, and 2) a spiritual promise, the beginning of a family that will turn into the "greatest of nations" the world has ever known!
 Now, for me...these series of Promises the Lord gives to Abraham are simply...beyond compare! So allow me to begin thinking about the Promises that Abraham was fully aware of as he prepared to sacrifice Isaac.

 First, check out Genesis 12: 1-3: " Now while Abram (this was before God changed his name to Abraham) was still living in the land of Haran, the Lord(Note: when using the title of Lord in referring to God, denotes a more personal acquaintance with God, a respect and a title when spoken has a little more feeling with it) spoke to Abram and said: " If you will leave this country, then I will lead you to another place, a place I have chosen for you. In fact, by doing this it will actually benefit...you! In other words, it will be to your advantage to leave this land in Haran and come with Me.
 Now, I understand, the requirements to do this are high. It requires you to leave everything behind: your country, your relatives, and even your father's family...all your aunts and uncles, cousins, nephews...everyone!
 Yet, if you do this you will begin a journey in your life that you will "not believe"...for by following through with this you become...a new...a great...nation!
 The reason is: I am the one creating all of this...for you! I will pour My favor upon you, and you will be blessed for making this bold move, and everyone who even meets you...will be blessed!...just because they had the honor of meeting you!
 In fact, here will be your new "Motto for Life": "I, the Lord will bless those who bless you, and I, the Lord will curse those who curse you!"
 If you leave this land in Haran...the whole earth will never be the same...again!"

Ok, I don't know about you...but I think that is one GIGANTIC promise....and honestly...what would you do? And then, in Genesis 12:7, this friend of Abraham....His Name is God....appears to Abraham again and declares: " This land you are coming to...it is all yours...both for yourself and for your family's....for future generations...in fact...forever!"
 So, Abram, in response to God's generous kindness, built and dedicated an altar to his friend, that being God Himself...out of respect, out of gratefulness, and out of admiration Abraham had...for his Friend."

 One more thing: check out the "attitude of the heart" Abraham had in life. Abraham had with him his relative Lot on this journey, and in Genesis 13:8-9, it goes something like this:" Abraham's herds and Lot's herds had grown so large, there had developed a conflict among their own herdsmen as for land and food for these huge numbers of livestock.
 So, Abram says to Lot: " Let's not allow any fighting ever to come between us or our herdsmen. We are family...and besides, there is more than enough land "out there". In fact, take a moment and look at all this countryside that is open and available to us both. Now, look around, then decide for yourself which section of land you want, and we can separate these vast herds.
 Here is my thought on all this: If you want the land that is all to our left, then I will take the land that is all to our right. If you want to flip and you take all this land on our right, then I will take all the land to our left. Let's make this "work" and not face any division between us."

 Abraham....his attitude on life...coming from his heart...has a lot to do with the "Isaac Sacrifice"...I just haven't put it altogether yet.....

The Abraham-Isaac Offering...Part 6

I am wanting to get to verse 5 of Genesis 22, yet there is another "little matter" I would like to address...well suggest anyway.
 The question arose: " Why would God have to test Abraham? Doesn't God know the heart of Abraham?" (this is a question a dear friend sent me...don't you just "hate it" (lol), when you think you are ready to move on to the next thing...and "boom"...someone or something comes along that states....you better think about this!)

 Ok, testings...the "God-testings" in our lives...what is the point?...right? Well, I think there is a point(s) as to why God tests us...and I do not think these testings are meant for us to "have more faith".
 One of my pet peeves in life is how people bring up Peter, when he was walking on the water toward Jesus, and the experience concluded: "Ye of little faith".
 I think one of the most disastrous remarks man has ever given to another during a time a person is going through some really tough time in life...is the response: "Hang in there brother...read your Bible....take time to pray...you just need a little more faith".
 Normally, I would like to throw my Bible at the person saying that to me, and the only prayer I have at that moment is for the "wrath of God" to smack that person in the side of the head. I am not saying that is the right attitude to have....it just makes me feel better (lol).
 Getting back to Peter for a moment...come on...the guy jumped out of the boat and WAS ACTUALLY WALKING ON WATER...hello? I really don't think Jesus was "hammering on him" because he lost it by letting what he saw become greater than his faith, rather, I really think Jesus was encouraging Peter...like "Alright Peter, your faith "took a dive" (not intended as a pun..but I admit I do like it) for a moment, but look...with the little faith you have...look what you have been able to do...I'll help you get back up...you are not going to drown or go down into the Abyss."

 Ok, I'll get off that subject..back to testings....like, what's the point? Here is what I have learned about testings in our lives.
 First, yes...God does authorize testings! But, I don't think it is because He wants to produce more faith in us...because faith comes by....?...hearing....and hearing the Sacred Scriptures (I know...the Word of God... Romans 10:17)...not by how well we do in a particular experience in daily life.
 Ok, then why tests? I believe we go through tests to reveal  within ourselves our faith in Him! It helps us to see where we are at, and to make adjustments where needed. the big difference is this: this comes from a discovery within our own hearts...this comes from taking the Sacred Scriptures and applying them to our personal situations. And, as a result, we become stronger!
 So, with that being said, I think when we see a brother or a sister who is going through "the ringer"... I have found it best to keep my mouth shut and lift them up in prayer...in my own personal devotions. Now, if they ask you for advice, or ask you to pray with them...that is a bonus! I just remember, based on my experience in life, this is a sensitive time in people's lives, and how we conduct ourselves can either be an encouragement or a discouragement to anyone facing times like these.

Abraham...he was about to go through something that would reveal to him the trust...the love...and the friendship he had with the Father at that time in his own life.
 I personally think that is why Abraham "shut down"...he did not talk to anyone about the sacrifice of Isaac, he didn't seek counsel as to what he was to do, and most importantly, he didn't "fly off the handle" and speak ill of his friendship with God.
 Instead, I think he mulled over the promises God had already given him, and began to exercise his personal faith...a trust and a "love of the friendship" that kind of spurned him on.
 Abraham was about to learn...a lot about himself in this experience...and he was also to see the integrity of his own son...Isaac, and what he brought "to the table" during this ''3 Day Journey" that was one of those "life-changing" moments!

Hey, I almost forgot...when God was speaking to his friend Abraham...he mentioned how Abraham loved Isaac....this is the first time in the Sacred Scriptures the word love was used...interesting: "sacrifice the son you love...."

Genesis 22:5....so close....yet so far away

"The Sacrifice"....Part 5

I am really getting into this, there is so much to think about concerning "The Abraham-Isaac Offering", and what really kind of "blows me away" is the "cut-n-dry" interpretations people have. As I read of commentaries on this, I don't doubt many of the accuracies of what people have gathered from this story...the problem I am having...there is "no depth of feeling "with so many of the explanations of what actually happened during this great historical event.
 These are 2 real people...just like you and me...having a real encounter...with a real God! That is what I am in search of.
 Before I go into verse 5 of Genesis 22, which is an awesome verse, I need to backtrack a little (for myself). I never claimed to be the "quickest horse out of the gate", I got to kind of go back over (sometimes repeatedly) to get something I am after... like a hunger. You know, have you ever really wanted something in particular to eat, like a steak for example, and you see Italian dishes, you smell sweet bread, or you look at other types of food....but what you want is...steak! Well, that is what is going on with me in reference to the "Abraham-Isaac Offering"...I am hungry for some answers coming out of my own heart.

First, in the first verse of chapter 22, God calls out for Abraham. Now, as I think about this...doesn't God know where Abraham is at? The answer for me is: yes! I think what is important ( and is for us today as well ): Does Abraham know where God is at?...Does Abraham know God's voice when He calls?
 In the Gospel of John, chapter 10: 24-28, Jesus runs into this situation and the highlight of this particular conversation was when Jesus Himself said: "My sheep know My voice....".
 The word "to know" is used in a variety of ways in the English language and doesn't always clarify a point that someone is trying to make at times.
 Now, there are other languages that "break down" a phrase like "to know" in order to make things a little more clear. For example, in the German language the phrase "to know" can be in two different words: "Wissen" meaning to know the facts, and "Kennen" meaning to know the person giving the facts.
 Here in John, Jesus addresses the importance of knowing "His Voice"....like Abraham did in the beginning of verse 1 of Genesis 22. The only way Abraham would have responded so quickly and clear...was through his "Kennen" with God.

 John 10: 24-28...a Gleaning.." During the Celebration of Hanukkah (the redemption of the Jewish people and re dedication of the Temple during the time of the Maccabees), Jesus was in Jerusalem and people had gathered around Him at the Temple.
 They had a question for Jesus, and asked Him directly: " Look, how long do you want us to keep guessing as to who You are...we are wavering, in both doubt...and suspense. If You are the Messiah...then why don't You just say so?"
 Jesus answered: "I already have! Here is your real question....."Why are you not the Messiah we want You to be?....You are not fitting into the pattern of the Messiah we want and are looking for!"
 Jesus expounds on this a little: " Yet, the Father has ordained all the work I am doing, and all My actions come directly from My Father. My actions and obedience to His Will speak louder than any of your questions of Me ever could.
 And here is the heart of the matter: you...are not My sheep! How do I know that? My sheep know My voice...and I know theirs.
 When My sheep hear My voice, they follow Me, and they receive the True Life they are really after. And, My sheep are never permanently lost...there is no power..no person...no force...or no convincing that can snatch them from Me!"

 So, getting back to Abraham, and this trusting friendship he now was experiencing...Abraham knew God...and therefore knew God's voice.
 Have you ever been holding a baby, who just won't stop crying and fussing...then the mother who might be 10 feet away, says one word...and the baby begins to calm down, usually their eyes open up  looking for their mother?...Abraham had grown in his friendship with God by Genesis 22...he did not have to find God...he just needed to recognize His Voice!

 Ok, I gotta think about this......

The 3 Day Journey...Abraham-Isaac Sacrifice...Part 4

  As I try and make sense of this moment in history when Abraham was asked to do what seems in some minds as utterly horrific, I focus on Genesis 22:4.
 Here, God has already explained to Abraham what He was wanting...to have Abraham offer his beloved son Isaac as a sacrifice to Him.

 Strange! If you take the time and read commentaries, meanings, and general synopsis of this mind-boggling event, the opinions are various and plentiful.
 I have read how in some circles obedience is what God was really after, that the intent was not to kill Isaac but was to test Abraham's faith.
 Others have gone as far as to say this was the first recorded event in history of child-abuse, Abraham putting Isaac through a very difficult period of his life.
 As for myself, I don't "buy" into either, I don't think God would arrange some "cruel game" to see if Abraham was totally committed to their relationship, nor do I think Abraham would simply give up Isaac, like he wasn't important enough in comparison to his friendship with God.

 I again remind myself about the trust factor involved in this whole unfolding drama, and the care and love God has shown to both Abraham and Isaac in their lives.
 In Genesis 18, Abraham demonstrates a mature type love himself as he intercedes for Sodom, most likely because Abraham's relatives Lot and his family lived there. Sodom had become a very "nasty" place, with all kinds of historical data as to the lifestyles that went on there. Yet, with all that, Abraham had received a commitment from the Lord that He would not destroy Sodom if there were 10 people living there who were righteous. Abraham had interceded for Lot and his family.

 Now, here in Genesis 22, Abraham's very own son was "at stake". And here they are taking a 3 day journey to a land called Moriah. In verse 4 it reads: " On the 3rd day, Abraham looked up...and saw the place...in the distance."
  During the 3 day journey, what could have been going through Abraham's mind? Questions like: "Will Isaac be hurt?" or perhaps: "What if I offer myself up in place of Isaac?" "Maybe I should talk this over with God, after all, prayer changes things... prayer can change God's mind...or will prayer change my mind?"
 From this "side of the equation", there had to be a hundreds of things" going through Abraham's mind during the 3 day journey.

Yet........

 This story is different....I mean, read carefully, and gather some info.
1. Abraham never disputed what God had asked him to do.
2. The friendship between God and Abraham was apparently good, simply by Abraham's response when God called for him: "Here I am."
3. Abraham kept this all to himself, yet wasted no time in preparation. He even woke early the next morning to get a good start, had cut the wood himself for the offering, and loaded his own donkey with supplies etc.
4. Isaac apparently had no clue to what was going on, in fact, some scholars have said Isaac could have been from age 20 to age 37 when this event took place.
5. The 3 day journey gave no indication what Abraham and Isaac were thinking or had perhaps discussed, and then..."Abraham looked up and saw this place...from a distance." It was almost like...Abraham could hardly wait to get there.
6. I wonder why in this verse (4), why the Scriptures found it necessary for us to know "he looked up"....for myself, it would indicate Abraham was resting...he was in a very tranquil state as they drew near to the place....the place where he was going to sacrifice his own son!
7. The name "Isaac" means: to laugh. He was named that because of the sheer age of Abraham and Sarah, and the fact they were still able to have a son...although both of them were near the "century" mark.
 This makes me think these two had a healthy sense of humor and were able to take life with  stability and maturity.
 Now, the sacrifice of Isaac....Abraham is acting a "little strange" here...or he knows something I don't know...do you?