January 9th One Year Bible Readings

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~ Click on this link for today's January 9th readings ~
Genesis 20:1-22:24 ~ Matthew 7:15-29
Psalm 9:1-12 ~ Proverbs 2:16-22

Old Testament - Today in Genesis chapter 20 we see that Abraham is not perfect (we have seen this humanness of Abraham earlier in our Genesis readings too).  This should be good news for each of us!  :)  Abraham essentially tells Abimelech a half-truth - and yes, half-lie.  The thing to remember here is that Abraham has received incredible promises from God and covenants - and yet, it is apparent that Abraham still has some fear of what will happen to him and Sarah.  This imperfection of God's people is something that we will continue to see throughout our Bible readings.  God uses imperfect people for his purposes.  God does typically use those that love him.  But, those that love God do still sin and make mistakes.  God partners with imperfect people throughout history.  God partners with people like you and me.  Below is Flemish Northern Renaissance Painter Jan Provost's "Abraham, Sarah and the Angel" from the year 1520:

In Genesis chapter 21 we read about Sarah joyfully giving birth to Isaac when Abraham was 100 years old!  Isaac's name means "he laughs" - which in part came from when Sarah laughed when God told Abraham she would have a son a year prior. We also read about Hagar and Ishmael being sent away.  Verse 13 stands out when God is speaking to Abraham, as he was upset about having to send Ishmael away: "But I will make a nation of the descendants of Hagar's son because he also is your son.""  Ishmael does later become the ruler of a large tribe in Paran and the Desert of Sinai, south of Israel.  Then, one of Ishmael's daughter's marries Esau, Ishmael's nephew.  From here the lineage of Esau becomes Arabic peoples and eventually the Muslim religion comes from this lineage.  It is said that Abraham is the father of the world's three major monotheistic faiths - Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths.  Below is an oil on canvas painting by the Spanish artist Giovanni Battista Tiepolo from 1732 titled "The Angel Succoring Hagar":

In Genesis chapter 22 Abraham's faith and obedience is tested in what most see as the climax of our readings about Abraham in Genesis.  Some interesting things to note about this chapter.  It is said that much of this chapter foreshadows what happens with Jesus.  A father is called to sacrifice his one and only son - a son he loves so very much.  The son is taken to a mountain to be sacrificed.  On the mountain a "lamb" is sacrificed - a ram in place of Isaac's life - and Jesus as the "lamb" in place of our lives.  Hebrews 11:19 has an interesting point to make about these readings in Genesis 22 today: "Abraham assumed that if Isaac died, God was able to bring him back to life again. And in a sense, Abraham did receive his son back from the dead."  Below is Rembrandt's famous painting from 1635 of the angel, Abraham and Isaac on Mount Moriah titled "The Sacrifice of Isaac" (this is a powerful painting - many commentators call Isaac a prefiguration / type of Christ, which I think this painting can help us visualize):

In verse 14 we read about the mountain where Isaac was taken and the altar was built - Mount Moriah.  Mount Moriah was about 48 miles north of Beersheba, where Abraham and Isaac began their journey - so a 3 day journey at that time makes sense.  Some scholars believe that Mount Moriah is the Temple Mount area of Jerusalem, where the first and second temples were located - and also where the Dome of the Rock mosque, built in 691 A.D., is now located.   Tons more info on the Temple Mount area, including photos is online here - http://www.templemount.org/  Below is an aerial view of the Mount Moriah / Temple Mount area in Jerusalem today:

Bob Deffinbaugh from bible.org has yet another amazing article, this time on Genesis Chapter 22 - which goes into The Command, Abraham's Obedience, God's Provision, and God's Promise.  Take 10 minutes if you can and check out this great article on this chapter titled "Final Exams" at this link here.  Below is a painting of "Abraham Sacrificing Isaac" by the famous French baroque classical painter Laurent de La Hire from the year 1650:

Bible.org's commentary on Genesis chapter 20 today titled "Don't Ever Say Never" is at this link and commentary on chapter 21 titled "What Happens When Christians Mess Up?" is at this link.

New Testament - Today in Matthew chapter 7 we wrap up the Sermon on the Mount!  Not a bad 3 chapters of teaching from Jesus, eh?  :) Verse 20 was insightful for me today: "Yes, the way to identify a tree or a person is by the kind of fruit that is produced."   I think this verse goes back to my post yesterday about how we are still to identify or perceive the types of people we come in contact with - without judging them or condemning them.  And one good to way to identify someone is by the type of fruit they produce - actions they demonstrate or lives they lead.  And while it may sometimes be easier to identify other people's fruit... maybe we ought to look at our own lives too.  What type of fruit is your life producing?  Is it life-giving fruit for those you come in contact with?   And let us not forget Jesus' warning in verse 15 today about how we are to identify false teachers.  Do you believe there are false teachers in our world today?  What are their fruits that you will know them by?

Verse 24 is strong: "Anyone who listens to my teaching and obeys me is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock."  Have you really listened to Jesus' teaching these past few days as you read through the Sermon on the Mount?  And - will you now obey Jesus' teaching?  Would this be wise?  Would this be like building a house on solid rock?  Will you stay out of the sands of sin?

Matthew 7:25 I think is an important verse for us to meditate upon in our own lives: "Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse, because it is built on rock."  I never paid too much attention to this verse - I always focused on verse 24 and building a strong foundation on solid rock.  But, I had lunch with a friend recently and he shared with me that this verse 25 - and verse 27 too - should be a reminder to each of us that storms will come in our lives.  And I think this is so true.  Sometimes we go through wonderful seasons of blessing, and we may think that storms will never come our way - but guess what, they will.  If we are followers of Jesus - Jesus who endured an unimaginable storm during his passion and crucifixion - storms will come our way too.  So, then, the key becomes if we know storms will come, we really should pay attention to verse 24 and build up a strong foundation of faith during the times of calm.  It's kind of like the idea of saving for a rainy day - the day will come when it rains.  So let us build up our faith and love in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit today!  So that when the storms of life come our way, we will not collapse, but will remain faithful to the beautiful end.  My friends, the storms will come.  But with Jesus, we do not need to fear them or collapse under them when they come!

Bible.org's commentary on our readings in Matthew chapter 7 today titled "Mistaken Identity" is at this link.

Psalms - Psalm 9 verse 9 stood out at me today and reminded me of Matthew 7:25 above too: "The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble." When we are in trouble, do we run to God for shelter?  Or do we look elsewhere?  Where will we ultimately find true peace and rest from the storms of life?  Do you believe that the Bible is a haven for you in the midst of the storms of life?

Proverbs - Proverbs 2:16-19 I believe can be viewed as woman or man.  There are both immoral men and women out there today who will talk flatteringly - which will lead down an incredibly dark path if we entertain the lust.  Verse 20 reminds us there is another path to take: "Follow the steps of good men instead, and stay on the paths of the righteous."  Will you evaluate all of all the paths that present themselves to you in your life - and stay on the paths that are taken by good men and women?  Will you stay only on paths full of light, and avoid at all costs paths that lead quickly to darkness?

Worship God: Jesus' teachings about storms in Matthew today and Psalm 9:9 above both reminded me immediately of the incredible Casting Crowns song "Praise You in This Storm."  I don't know what it is about all these storm songs on the radio that are resonating with me lately - MercyMe's "Bring the Rain" being a current favorite song - other than I know this:  It's not a matter of "if" storms will come in our life.  It's a matter of "when."  Storms will come.  And when they do, we have the option to try to weather the storms all on our own.  Or we have the option to invite God into the storms with us.  Well, I believe God's already there with us in the storms even if we don't realize it - so, I think we can simply open our hearts and praise God in the storms!  He will never abandon us or leave us.  Even in the midst of the worst storms this fallen world might bring, God is there with us.  Will you praise God in the storms?

Do you believe there is a God who is worthy of being praised even in the midst of storms in your life?  Click here to get to know God of heaven and earth who is worthy of being praised in the storms!

Please join me in memorizing a verse of Scripture today:
"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock." Matthew 7:24 NIV

Comments from You and Questions of the Day:  Based on the knowledge that storms will come into our life, what are you doing in your life to build a firm foundation of faith?  Reading the Bible regularly?  Going to church regularly?  Being part of a small group or community group or Bible study with other Christians regularly?  Praying regularly?  What else?  Do you think that storms will come to your life?  Have you experienced storms in your life in the past where your faith has been your firm foundation and has gotten you through the storm?  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

Comments

[Dawn]

2007 was a real trial for us, it seemed everwhere we turned there was some type of challenge or trial. We experienced everything from 3 car accidents, our basement flooding,a heart attack, a cancer scare, moving,and our dog being run over and dying just to name a few things. The biggest and hardest was the decision for my husband to resign from his ministry position at church and our family leaving the church because we were in an unhealthy situation that was not going to get better. Things have gotten better recently, but I have to admit that it wasn't easy to come through. It was quite depressing at times. I went to a retreat soon after the leaving the church and I couldn't even sing It is Well with My Soul, because at that time nothing was well within my soul. There were times when I was just going through the motions, but I kept trying to trust God that it would get better and it did. We now attend a great church, we are involved in a home group, and starting to get involved in some ministry. That Casting Crowns song has been helpful, but another one that has been dear to my heart lately is by Matt Redman titled You Never Let Go. Part of it says that God NEVER lets go (of me) even through the storms and trials. This is so true because even in my darkest times I knew He was there, sometimes I didn't understand why these things were happening, but I knew within the depths of me that He was there.If you are going through a storm right now, just hang on to God, and His promises. Don't give up!

[john b]

I must point out that it was a ram {not a lamb} caught by his horn in the thicket that was sacrificed in Issacs place....

[Jim]

Here are my thoughts on Matthew 7:24-27. In a short devotion format :-)

Interesting passage, yet quite a simple passage to see Jesus "MAIN POINT". Most of the time you hear people say we need to be founded upon the ROCK which is JESUS which is True, but that is not the SPECIFIC principle Jesus was teaching here. Jesus was teaching what makes a person have a solid foundation or an unstable foundation or what makes one a "wise man" or a "foolish man". Which comes down to ONE thing, which is whether we DO what we hear or not. Let's look at the difference between the "Wise Man (Rock man)" and "Foolish Man (Sand man)".

WISE MAN (built house on rock) HEARETH these sayings and DOETH THEM.
1. Rains descended
2. Floods came
3. Winds blew
4. Beat upon that house
It Fell NOT.

FOOLISH MAN (built house upon sand) HEARETH these sayings and DOETH THEM NOT.
1. Rains descended
2. Floods came
3. Winds blew
4. Beat upon that house
GREAT was its FALL.

What is the difference, again as you can see, the only difference is one was a DOER of what he heard and the other was NOT A DOER of what he heard.

They both heard same thing, had the same set of circumstance, but one fell one did not, because one was a DOER of the WORD the other was a HEARER ONLY.

James 1:22 says, "But be ye doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves".

These scriptures makes it quite clear that were deceived and in for a great (big) fall if we think hearing alone will benefit our lives. You can hear all the Bible, Studies, Devotions, Sermons, Christian conferences, Christian Workshops, etc. But if there is NO application you are not on a good foundation.

I will say here that, that should not be a discouragement from hearing (learning) as it is the first step to being a DOER. I can't DO what I don't hear. So we need to HEAR! Then we need to DO! I personally don't do 100% of what I hear (even though I should), but thank God I DO a lot of what I hear, that DOING is where my foundation in Christ is established.

Just for the records I am NOT talking about "good works" but BEING DOERS OF GODS WORD, there is a difference.

If Gods Word clearly tells us something then our goal should be to DO it. So do you want a to establish a Firm (Solid Rock) Foundation then start putting God's Word to practice in your life. I promise you God who cannot lie will bless your life!

I appreciate all your hunger for God's Word!

This One Year Bible group is exciting!!!

Jim

[Anka]

I noticed a big difference between the way Abimelech treated Abraham and the way Pharoh did...one got mad that he couldn't get what he wanted and proceeded to chase Abraham out of his kindgom...the other was hurt by the deception and figured that maybe,there was something he did to deserve it"Then Abimelech called Abraham and said to him, "What have you done to us? And how have I sinned against you, that you have brought on me and on my kingdom (N)a great sin? You have done to me things that ought not to be done."
Then both parties repented...I looked to see where Gerar was,it was part of the land given to Judah...Egypt,wasn't.Kind of makes us see the way we should react to those who wrong us huh....
For a man who felt bad that he had to send Ishmael away,Abraham sure was taking a chance with God when he took Isaac to the altar.Jewish Rabbis believe Isaac wasn't a little boy when this happened but a grown man....that may have given Abraham more time to grow in faith...Sarah,an obedient wife...guess a lot of wives would sue Abraham for such treatment...not Sarah,if she didn't trust God to give her a son...did she trust Him to save her....or was it just out love and obedience for Abraham...still pondering on that one......................................................... 22"(H)Many will say to Me on (I)that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?'

23"And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; (J)DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.'
This sermon was given to an audience to whom LAW meant the law of Moses because that was supposed to be the law that governed their lives....If we see today people who do signs and wonders....that may not necessarily mean they will enter the kindgom....I pray we read the bible without our doctrinal glasses on and seek to know what God really wants in our daily lives...that we may bear good fruit.
How do I prepare for the storms in my life...By reading the bible daily and praying...by having fellowship with people who've had storms and weathered them victoriously....Even here on this site I see people who are brave enough to post about storms in their lives and I learn alot from them,it's why I always end my post with
God bless you all....I really mean it.

[Moggy]

Your site is very helpful to me. I am visual and need the pictures along with the comments to help get me into the word.

Thanks

[Kelly]

In response to the Questions of the Day:
I had a very strong firm foundation from the time I was very young; there were a lot of people looking out for me. I went to church regularly, Sunday School, youth group, camp, retreats..you name it, I was there. I went away to college, but the Lord blessed me with many Christian friends and a church close by. Then, when I transferred back up to my hometown, I let my faith slip and found more and more excuses for why I wasn't able to make it to church. Too far, too early, too busy...Yes, my home church is about 30 minutes from me, and I don't have my license, but that doesn't mean I cannot search for a church around here. I finally came to the realization that I was relying on other people to build my faith for me, and I CAN'T do that. God wants a relationship with ME, so it's up to me to maintain that. So, I would really love it if some of you wouldn't mind in joining me in praying for a home church. Thanks! :-)
In the meantime, I also build my foundation by prayer, and reading my Bible daily.
I definitely think that storms will continue to come into my life. It's when we are at our weakest that God uses us, and we learn to rely all the more on Him. When you have nothing left, He is the only Constant.
Oh, there have been so many storms in my life, but the one that immediately jumped into my head was when my mom was in an abusive relationship. It lasted for about 4 years (a pretty long storm!) and I can't tell you how often I prayed for my mom, and our family.My faith literally got me through that storm. I don't know how else I would have gotten out of it, or my mom for that matter. Oh, if only she could see how God's love got her through that! I am still recovering from this time in my life, and still rely on my faith to get me through when I see this person around my town.
What stood out to me today was definitely Matthew 7:24. I want to build my house on the Rock! I so desire for my future children to have what I didn't. I want them to be comfortable in their home, hear about Jesus daily, and never feel unsafe! It is my prayer and my husband's, that our children will come to know the Lord, and we want to teach them using the right foundation, the Lord!
He is so good!
Blessings,
Kelly

[Sue]

TAMARISK TREE

Genesis 21:33
Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there he called upon the name of the LORD, the Eternal God.

I was curious about this tree Abraham planted after the convenant between Abraham and Abimelech.

I learned that it was brought here to the US in the 1800s and it has nearly taken over the desert in Arizona; wherever it is planted it sucks up much water--particularly where there is very little water to spare; it also causes the soil to become salty so that other plants do not do well. Then, I checked another site and saw how beautiful in bloom is the tamarisk! See for yourself:

http://www.envocare.co.uk/backgrounds/tamarisk1024.jpg

__________________________________________________________

Genesis 22:5

He said to his servants,
Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you."

I have often wondered how Isaac himself felt about this experience. I mean, Abraham is credited with such faith because of his willingness to surrender ALL to God and trust Him completely. However, we do not get a sense of how Isaac felt. Did he have any understanding of what was to take place? He was not so young that he could not have tried to overpower his father. I wonder about his "trust" in Abraham after the fact. How did his father, Abraham, square this with Isaac? As haughty as Sarah could be (with regard to her maidservant Hagar), I bet there was some trouble at home when she got the news too! I mean, Sarah did seem to be pretty much a "matriarch" what with telling Abram to take her maidservant in the first place, sassing him when Hagar got nasty, telling him to send Hagar and Ishmael away, and God supporting that decision.

I guess I think the whole family would have been pretty much up in arms:

. Abraham not wanting to deal with the wrath of Sarah before he left and

. Isaac wondering what their next worship expedition was going to cost HIM and

. Sarah getting this news upon their return.

I also wonder how this played out for Isaac who was the father of Jacob (Israel) and Esau; Isaac preferred his son Esau, while his wife preferred Jacob (the fair-haired boy apparently).

Just musing here...

[Jenny]

A verse that stood out for me was Gen 21:2: 'Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, "at the very time God had promised him"'. We see here, this was God's perfect timing. My reasoning says, hmm...why wait so long? but God clearly had his purposes and His purposes n timing are PERFECT, our understaning isnt. There are things in my life, actually most things take forver...i ask God how long will i have to wait? He tells me, 'no matter what, follow and trust Me, and let Me work out my PERPECT purpose for your life in MY timing.' sometimes i grumble and murmur....why is it taking so long??? But my soul must rest in His will and i must trust, obey, have faith, and let God's will prevail. Sometimes we think we need to 'help God out'...so we do stupid things...ex. from Abraham, sleeping with Hagar, or bearing false witness that Sarah was his sister. He was attempting to take matters into his own hand. I know I do this, i'm sure we all do. God knows our frail, fallen nature and He is quick to forgive and be merciful to us!
"God has brought me laughter"...haha, i like this...its true, God is funny! He cracks me up!
aaaw...i feel bad for hagar, she was being punished for others' wrongs. :( but God was merciful to her and sympathetic.

"God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son."...i love that. surely a foreshadowing of the Son God would sacrifice for us! Some commentary suggests Abraham was distressed and reluctant and Isaac had to tell him, obey God, this is what he told you to do. no doubt Isaac was a man around this time, late teens, early 20s perhaps...he could have resisted, no doubt he was much stronger then Abraham, an old man...this shows too that isaac was willing to be scarificed, another foreshadowing of the Christ who willingly obeyed His Father in submitting to be the sacrifice.

I like in Matt v. 20 "Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them." ...another indicator we are to make judgments. ever notice after talking with someone it doesnt take long to figure out if they truely know Christ...again, not judging their heart, but discerning, testing the spirits. God doesnt want us to be gullible!

I love the building your house parable. we used to sing a song about it in sunday school. course i didnt truely understand the spiritual meaning, but i do know. For years (during my walking away from God period) I was like one who built my house on the sand...things would happen, storms in life, and everything would come crashing down. Now my foundation is on Christ Jesus and though storms blow like crazy...it remains standing....amazing!

I love Ps. 9 & 10. "The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.
Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek." .....v.12 "he does not ignore the cry of the afflicted". How reassuring. Oh, God is sooo good!!!

[Mae]

I really like what you wrote today, Jenny! About having a foundation now ... Jesus Christ! I had a 'walking away from God'-period to. I had it for a very very long time! Didn't quite understand how I had to build my relationship with Him. I thought I could blame Him for everything, I figured "I have to praise Him for everything, so I can also blame Him for everything". So I'd go and do my thing, thinking I'd lived with Jesus in my heart (never heard of being saved and never heard of salvation), make my own choices, doing things that I knew were 'kind of wrong' (kind of ... yeah right: it's either WRONG or RIGHT!!!) and when it all went wrong, I feld like God let me down. I'd go down my selfpity lane, thinking "I have nobody to turn to, I will never be healed, nobody treats me right" booh hoo, I was feeling so sorry for myself! But now I know that God has His reasons. For example: my husband isn't saved yet. I keep my husband in my prayers every single day, in all my prayers I ask God for the rebirth of my husband. So now, I can do 2 things ... 1.) I can break down and cry all day! Thinking that God doesn't hear my prayers. Get angry and be all like "Why don't you get my husband to have himself saved!!! Why don't you listen to my prayers!!! I'm a changed woman! I go to church! I pray! I teach my son about you! ... and so on and on. Or 2.) I can thank God for my lovely family. And be thankful for all I have. I can continu being a Christian and shine all day long for the love of my heavenly Father! Share my experiences with Jesus Christ with my husband. And trust God that one of these days (may it be soon or in a few years) He'll talk to my husband either through me or directly to him ... I used to be worried about this, about my husband being unsaved. But because of my relationship with God, I know things will be fine. Don't rush it ... be patient. I do the things I need to do as a Christian and I put it in the hands of my heavenly Father and He'll take care of it. And that, my friends, is my freedom!

Anyway ... back to the readings ...

Reading Genesis, this verse 20:6 stood out for me: "In the dream God responded, “Yes, I know you are innocent. That’s why I kept you from sinning against me, and why I did not let you touch her". It's a prove that God really doesn't want us to sin! Even if you're about to sin and you don't know it, He wants to protect us. In my opinion that is ... It hurts me when people think that sinning is a part of our lives, that everybody does it and 'it just happens'. Because it doesn't just happen! I will NOT sin ON PURPOSE!!! I know God's word and when I do think "Hmmm .. I can do this and that ... it's just kind of wrong". I will not do it!!! Because I know it's the devil speaking to me! I read the Bible, I know what's wrong and what's right. And this verse shows me that God really doesn't want us the sin! He protected Abimelech ... and I believe that if we're good at heart and give our lives to Him, He'll protect us to! Just believe that He will, trust Him that He will.

Matthew 7:20 ... very powerfull ... "Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter". I know this part talks about false prophets, but this also make me think about people who say that they go with God, but you see them do one sinfull thing after the other. I will not judge them, I mean, who am I to do that? (thinking about the readings from yesterday "Do not judge others, and you will not be judged") But it just worries me, because those people might think they are saved and have their ticket to heaven. Sometimes it all goes beyond me, like I said before: when you read God's word, you know what's wrong and right ... so how can you go wrong??? The Bible warns us for false prophets and the enemy Satan. I feel sad thinking about the unsaved and everyone that call out to the Lord but don't do the will of our Father ...

Psalm 9:10 stood out for me "Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you". It just sais it all ... trust Him, He'll never let you down. You know, since my rebirth God answered all of my prayers, comforted me when I was in tears, protected me during the attacks from the devil or the world. I don't have to look elsewhere, I have my heavenly Father!

Proverbs ... sigh ... that was a mirror from the past reading that ... wow ... verse 16 & 17 "Wisdom will save you from the immoral woman, from the seductive words of the promiscuous woman. She has abandoned her husband and ignores the covenant she made before God". Two-and a half year ago I fell in love with another man, well, I thought I did. Stupid me chose to constantly look for him. He was my co-worker, but on a whole other devision, I didn't have to see him if I didn't want to. But I always did look for him. I'd wander the floor he worked on and tried to see him when nobody was there. What a sinner!!!!!!!! I know I don't have to share this story, but I want to tell it ... you never know where it's good for, right? I really hope all men have enough wisdom to save him from the immoral woman! Because nobody deserves it to end up with her! If she's able to ignore the convenant she made before God and abandoned her husband ... she can't be trust whatsoever! Unless she'll be reborn ... unless she falls down on her knees and begs for God's mercy! Now I see it all so clearly ... but when I was going through that time I actually thought God gave me this other man to make me happy, I thought I had to fight for him and we could be together and have our own family. NOW I see that was satan talking to me. At the time I thought I had to leave my husband, I thought God brought that other guy in my life for a good reason. How stupid ... like God ever wanted me to be an adulterous woman. He would NEVER ever wanted me to do the things I eventually did ... verse 20 "Follow the steps of good men instead, and stay on the paths of the righteous". I'm glad I came to terms quickly and told my husband about the fling, I didn't wait till it was over, I told him while I thought I was in love with this other guy. I always think "I wish there was somebody that I trusted back then to tell everything to", but at the other hand, I was soooooooooo stubborn then! I probably wouldn't have listerned anyway. Not to the unsaved friends I had ... it would have been wonderful to have had a Christian friend back then! Oh well, that's only talking could've / would've / should've. This fling with this guy lasted for 3 weeks (after flirting on and off for a couple of months), I told my husband about it, I came clean with him and weird enough we're stronger then ever ever since. I'm not saying that everybody should have affairs to make their relationship stronger, that's just stupid! Thank God ours did get stronger. But it was awful for times, because I couldn't forgive myself for the sinfull things I did. My husband forgave me, but I couldn't forgive myself. The healing from that started when I was saved. And praise the Lord for that!

[Gina]

Great readings in Genesis today! About God opening up the wombs of Abimelech's wife and slave girls...there has been continual prayer for God to open up wombs in my church family. There are several couples trying to conceive (myself included) and it's been a long road for some of us. But while having lunch with a friend the other day, she shared that a group of people, during a prayer time, all sensed the same thing...that God was opening up the wombs of those in our church community! In God's timing....I know breakthrough is coming soon!!

I love reading about how Abraham took Isaac to sacrifice him. It really is a reminder of what God has done for us to save us! Praise be to God!

I believe there are a lot of false teachers out there...even in the Christian faith. That is why we need to be constantly in the Word...so we can have discernment. We will know the by their fruit. If someone says they are a christian but doesn't live like it at all (and I don't mean those who truly try to live it out and make a change but keep messing up) - you can tell...you just can...by their words, their actions, their pride. I know that I know that God is the only one who knows our hearts...but if someone is going against God's word...and knows better...but doesn't seem to care..."Oh that's why I ask for forgiveness...I can do what ever I want, God will forgive me"....NOT! It just doesn't work like that! The day will come when God will say "I'm sorry I don't know you!" I have a few friends who attend church and pray when it's convenient...they have already told me they are fine and don't need t be saved...they "believe"...well, heck...the bible says "even the demons believe"!! I believe they are so deceived...they still live like the world, the kind of church I go to is too "Holy Roller" for them - they like their 45 minutes on Sat or Sun and then seem to forget about it the rest of the week...Oh boy....I need to stop! LOL! I'm going off on a tangent...but I think you all know what I mean and probably all have people in your lives like this. If we pray together in unity for God to wipe the scales from their eyes...to open their hearts up to the truth....I know God can do it!

Like Mae shared...proverbs is like looking into a mirror also. I've lived it...I know what it is like to be deceived into thinking that God had sent that new man in to my life...I believed all the lies of the enemy! How embarassing! But God did a wonderful thing! A wonderful miracle! When we turned to Him, he restored our marriage and as I have said before...it is better than ever! God can do it!

We get so deceived into thinking that brushing up against them near the copy machine is not big deal...or having a harmless lunch out in public is not a concern...well...YES IT IS!! All sin begins in our minds, and when we have a bad moment with our spouse, Satan always seems to send someone of the opposite sex to say just the right things at just the right times to make us fee better....then...let the games begin! That is all it takes for us to let our mind wander. We will start thinking...Gee, I wish my spouse treated me that way or understood me the way they do! Then you're hooked! You want more...and because it FEELS so good...you think "this must be from God" He just wants me to feel good...God must have given this person to me and the one I am already married to...well I shouldn't have married them....it was a mistake! NO - SATAN IS MAKING YOU BELEIVE IT IS A MISTAKE! Your marriage is right where God wants you to be...work it out...trust God...and RUN RUN RUN as fast as you can AWAY from the other person!!!!!!
God is God....obey Him and you can't go wrong!

Whew...I'm sorry for my tangents....but I pray that maybe, just maybe, someone out there will come across this and turn to God to restore them and their marriage.

[R]

I learned something today or should I say that I had a revelation and gained a deeper understanding of what sin is and isn’t. Sin has nothing to do with being or not being “innocent.”

But that night God came to Abimelech in a dream and told him, "You are a dead man, for that woman you have taken is already married!" But Abimelech had not slept with her yet, so he said, "Lord, will You destroy an innocent nation? Didn't Abraham tell me, 'She is my sister'? And she herself said, 'Yes, he is my brother.' I acted in complete innocence! My hands are clean." In the dream God responded, "Yes, I know you are innocent. That's why I kept you from sinning against Me, and why I did not let you touch her. (Genesis 20:3-6 NLT)

To “sin” means to miss the mark, to fall short of that which is perfect. Although Abimelech took Sarah using the faculty (lie) information that he had and was given, she was Abraham’s sister and only his sister, he was responsible and held accountable based on the Truth that he didn’t have. Sin, be it unintentional based on choices made because of a lie, is still sin. WOW!

Matthew 7:15-29

You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? (Matthew 7:16 NLT)

In order to determine what type of fruit a tree is producing one must make a study of the real tree and that can only be done by getting into the Word and studying. Christians are usually very quick to embrace people who say they are Christians without first inspecting fruit. May we learn to take our time as we enter into prayer and ask the Father for His direction. Too often, we ask after we have done and find out we have been duped.

But anyone who hears My teaching and doesn't obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash." (Matthew 7:26-27 NLT)

When someone “collapses” in our congregations, do we immediately run to them and begin trying to help them rebuild without first checking to see if their foundation is in Christ or in their own agendas? I am a type II Diabetic and I have learned what I can and cannot eat and what I must and should not do to keep this in check. You can say that not doing what I have been told I need to do, eat properly and exercise will cause me to collapse in the storm of consequences if I don’t take heed. If I incorporate all the proper foods and exercises then my foundation will be strong and withstand the effects of heart disease, stroke, loss of limbs and blindness. If I don’t, my own body will destroy itself. In a the substance of that house will be what causes the house to collapse when it is built on a “sandy” foundation.

A lot to think about.

[Mark]

I had a huge storm once.

In my last year of College, I elected to take a post-secondary course regarding Electronic Journalism.

During the previous years, there was a man who I couldn't stand. Low and behold, he was there with me in E-Journalism as well. Satan loves having his generals around those who truly believe and trust in him.

In E-Journalism, we were expected to do the work of 6-8 people every single week, with only 4 people working on it. That was stressful enough. But this man drove me crazy, and I don't mean figuratively either.

By the end of the courses and just before we were to go on placement, I couldn't think straight anymore. I would stay in bed for hours, due to a deep depression. The next moment, I would would be manic crazy, and the next moment I would lose it and scream and shout at everything. I'd lost it, truly lost it.

But I believe in God's word.

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2.

And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; Ephesians 4:23.

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Philippians 2:5.

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

I believe these, so when the world is too much for us, and we start to buckle under the pressure of life when Satan comes in as a torrent, I believe we can call upon the Lord and ask him toe renew a right mind in us.

I prayed a prayer,

"Lord, you say you can renew the spirit of my mind, I claim it in Jesus Name."

I started to cry, the first time I had in weeks. I forgave every single person which had caused this horrible experience in me. I was renewed with the mind of Christ again, and I was ready to serve others again.

The Lord is wonderful and powerful. We can call on his name to create such great miracles.

[Brad]

Today in Matthew 7:15-20 we read that we will know false prophets "by their fruits." However, we are not explicitly told in this text what fruits false prophets possess. Here are two interesting articles about false prophets which use various scripture references to portray the characteristics and "fruits" of a false prophet.

"Beware of False Prophets" Jeremiah 23:9-40
http://www.pbcc.org/sermons/hanneman/1317.html

A. False prophets strengthen the hands of evildoers.
B. The source of a false prophet's message is not God.
C. The content of their message is filled with lies and false assurances.
D. They claim authority from God, but they have no authority.
False prophets are on a slippery, perilous slope. Soon their footing will give way and they will be cast into darkness.

"What is a False Prophet?"
http://cgg.org/index.cfm/fuseaction/Library.sr/CT/PW/k/1177/False-Prophet.htm
Fruits of False Prophets:
[It is also mentioned that a false prophet might not posess all of these traits. These are some identifiable evil fruits of false prophets.]
1. They "will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them" 2Peter 2:1
2. "By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words" 2Peter 2:3
3. They "walk according to the flesh in the lust of uncleanness and despise authority." 2Peter 2:10
4. "They are presumptuous, self-willed" 2Peter 2:10
5. "They are not afraid to speak evil of dignitaries" 2Peter 2:10
6. ". . . having eyes full of adultery and that cannot cease from sin, enticing unstable souls." 2Peter 2:14
7. "They have forsaken the right way and gone astray" 2Peter 2:15
8. "While they promise them liberty, they themselves are slaves of corruption" 2Peter 2:19

Matthew 12:36-37
"But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.

For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned."
___________________________________________

What are you doing in your life to build a firm foundation of faith? Reading the Bible regularly? Yes.
Going to church regularly? Weekly. Also, I teach preschool Bible Study.
Being part of a small group or community group or Bible study with other Christians regularly? Yes, this online group. There is a singles Bible Study at 9 a.m. that I used to attend and have not been to recently.
Praying regularly? I pray frequently, asking for God direction and praying that His will is done.
What else? Do you think that storms will come to your life? Certainly.
Have you experienced storms in your life in the past where your faith has been your firm foundation and has gotten you through the storm? Yes. I recently quit my job as a teacher, even when I was giving my full effort and praying to God for guidance and help. I felt forced into resignation due to administrative pressure, but continued to work through the final two weeks--though I was confused why God did not bring me success as I envisioned it. God has other purposes for me I know. I know that my path is being made straight as I acknowledge God in all my ways (Proverbs 3:6) and that everything works together for my good because I love God and I have been called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). Furthermore, my ability to participate in this Bible study is partially due to the fact that I have the time available to do so. Praise God! I have truly desired to spend more time studying God's word. Also, due to Matthew 6:30-35, I have naught to fear:

31Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?

32(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

33But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings? I enjoyed the "Final Exams" reading relating to Abraham's obedience--resultant from his faithfulness.

[Jit]

I am awed by the faithfulness of Abraham. In verse 5, Abraham said to his servants,"We will worship and then we will come back to you" What confidence and faithfulness Abraham had that God would do what it is right and no question needed to be asked.He and Isaac would come back to the waiting servants.

[Brandie]

God is Eternal
Gen 22: When God asks us to do something we should not withhold.

Matt 7:15-29
A tree and its Fruit
The type of fruit my life is producing is a life giving fruit for those I come in contact with. I believe there are false teacher today they mail you stuff and they are on TV. I think a true Christian just knows the fruit they are it is a feeling.

Yes~I have listened. This would be awesome to see Jesus teach and now I know more about the Sermon on the Mount! I will try my best to obey his teaching (the worrying) is the only thing I will have to work on. I will stay out of the sand of sins.

Psalms 9:1-12
When I was depressed and lonely I would not turn to God when I was in trouble I would be depressed, but now I turn to God. I will ultimately find true peace and rest from the storms of life in Jesus , the Bible and prayer.

Psalm 9:3 Talks about "my enemies turn back, they stumble..." this reminds me of Lots wife she really wasn't an enemy but she turned back and stumbeld and perished before God.

Proverbs 2:16-22
Verse 20 is nice to post in the computer room when you have a loved one that is addicted to porn.

I talk to Jesus every night around 7pm, reading the Bible. I listen to Air one which is a Christian station in which I think I am making my firm foundation. I surround myself with christian friends. My little boy knows all about Jesus. When I first told him about Jesus he said "I want to go to heaven and see Jesus and I told him all in due time."

I have noticed that since I have started reading daily bible verses my life has changed and I am happier :)

[Andrew]

I am a bit puzzled by Sarah. On the one hand we are told she is too old to have a child according to normal expectations. On the other hand she is so beautiful the king of Egypt and Abimelech both want her.

Any explanations?

[Nicole]

To Andrew:
I thought the very same thing! I wondered how she her beauty would astound kings, but then she was laughing cause she heard that she was having a child in her "old" age. But back in this time, people did live a lot longer, so maybe she didn't look old? Or was their idea of beauty really different from what we can imagine?
Any other thoughts?
Nicole

[R]

Regarding Sarah being old. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and yes, the standards of beauty are different in every culture and historical time fame. Take a walk through an art gallery that covers a large time frame, let’s say centuries, and you will see a time-line of the changing standards of beauty. It is this society, the MTV, every household, or at least every tiny village worldwide has someone in it with a television society that has begun to worship “youth” and held it up as THE standard of beauty. We have grown accustom to looking at the outside, ignoring the inside. The world sees everything from the outside in, God sees things from the inside out.

Also if you think that there are no beautiful “old” woman, then you may be operating on assumptions. If you think old equals ugly, then an older woman who is beautiful may be passed off by you as being young or younger. Old and young are all relative terms anyway.

Many daughters have done virtuously, nobly, and well [with the strength of character that is steadfast in goodness], but you excel them all. Charm and grace are deceptive, and beauty is vain [because it is not lasting], but a woman who reverently and worshipfully fears the Lord, she shall be praised!
(Proverbs 31:29-30 AMP)

Even if people lived longer, the biblical texts points out that both Abraham and Sarah were long past the age of child bearing, though men have the capacity to father a child long into their “old” age. The question for Abraham was did he have the capability physically to father Isaac. Both seem to know that in the natural, without God, no children would be forthcoming.

And God said to Abraham, As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai; but Sarah [Princess] her name shall be. And I will bless her and give you a son also by her. Yes, I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples shall come from her. Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed and said in his heart, Shall a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? And shall Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a son?
(Genesis 17:15-17 AMP)

Looking at the pattern of God we will see that He has this habit of always picking the week, the underdog, the one who in their own strength cannot accomplish anything. In fact, if Abraham and Sarah were able to produce children on their own then God would not get the glory. They were a “sign” and a “wonder” to all those around them that indeed, there is a God above all other gods, a God that can resurrect dead things and dead people.

[Nicole]

Thanks R on your comments. I hope that I didn't come across to you that being "old" is ugly. I just mean in our society, you see all the commericals for face creams to look younger and people turning to plastic surgery to look younger. That was where I was coming from in comparing the standards of beauty. I was questioning about Sarah because I know that our society is much different from hers. This is why I enjoy reading the Bible everyday, I learn something new and interesting :) Nicole

[Laura]

Amen R, If Abraham and Sarah were able to have a child on their own than God would not of gotten the glory. I am always astounded by your wisdom. You seem very scholarly and know the bible well. Your wisdom and elequence of speech always impress me, but I know that you will give God the glory for blessing you in this way. Thanks for all your input.

More thoughts on prayer......I believe that it is prayer, speaking to God that actually gets you through the storms of life. You must also be grounded in your faith and know the word well, that way you will know what to pray and have a better understanding of God's truths. I think that journaling and prayer really go hand in hand. If your prayers are answered, that would be an excellant thing to journal about along with your thoughts and requests. It can help you to feel closer to God and more thankful when you go back later and read how your prayers were answered. Another thought on prayer is that I heard it is important to pray out loud, that way your thoughts are not jumbled like mine often are. I know that some don't like to share their requests with a lot of people. Perhaps than a prayer accountablity partner would be best. Someone you can partner with could be someone from church, your small group or bible study. You and your partner should call or email often. Calling is best and more personal.

I hope these suggestions are helpfull and I wish you all a blessed and wonderful day

[Betty]

Mike,
Thank you for your website. After one week of reading, I am grateful to you for your "ministry"...your site is an encouragement and aid in helping me become more disciplined in my study and meditation of God's Word. I have also enjoyed your links to bible.org Bob Deffinbaugh's thoughts on Abraham, especially regarding the sacrifice of Isaac. I have learned lots and find the scripture to jump off the page. Also, where do you get your artwork? They really enhance and enrich my reading as well. Thanks and God bless you for your commitment. Your site has helped me build my foundation and the eternal perspective that what I do today most definitely counts for eternity. I am constantly amazed at how my daily readings connect with Sunday sermons and where I am in life. There's no doubt in my mind there is a Master Planner who weaves the story of our lives.By the way, journaling really helps me grow because it allows me to visually review all God has brought me through and is a source of meditation.

[Chip]

First, I can certainly attest that the storms do come! It is vitally important that we face those storms with Christ as our foundation. However, I don’t think we can “sav[e] for a rainy day” with respect to our faith. We establish the foundation of our faith in Christ, but our faith cannot truly grow, develoop, and deepen until we face the storms. Just as a muscle cannot grow without resistance, faith cannot grow unless it is challenged. Praise God for the storms we face - and overcome through Him! (James 1:2-3)

[R]

Genesis 20:1-22:24

Mike thanks for the link to Bob Deffinbaugh’s article, Final Exams. I had read the article before but as we folks do so easily I had forgotten about it and his insights and wisdom about Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac had escaped my memory.

Mark thank you for bringing to light a question many of us have probably thought about but maybe were too timid to bring it up in “good” company. What was Isaac thinking? I think we would like to think he strengthened himself like a “man” as his father tied him up, placed him on the altar with the wood under his body and raised the knife to plunge into his body. I think I would be screaming my head off and asking my father, “Are you CRAZY?” I think I might have wrestled with some serious father/son issues after I got down. Or maybe after hearing the voice of God and seeing the ram in the bush, I might have contemplated the wonder of it all, then yelled at my father.

These are just my rambling thoughts and have not been endorsed by anyone, not even me.

[Deb]

Righteousness, Righteousness, Righteousness--Seek God's Righteousness, and He will Be the God that protects us!
That is what I am hearing from Him.
I live in a rural town in NYS. I attend a Non-Denominational church on a regular basis. I teach Children's Church once a month, on a rotation with four other teachers. I volunteer at our Welcome Center once a month also. Periodically, when a job that is good for me comes along, I am called to do it. I love to serve the Lord. Building up Treasures in Heaven, so I can have a crown to lay back at Jesus' feet. I get through storms by trusting the Lord. He has really put me to the test in this area. I used to be a worrier and fretter when a problem came along, but, Jesus has taught me that is foolishness, and wait and trust on Him and the situation will surely work out. If I take this attitude, It always does. If anybody out there, has this problem, try trusting Jesus. He works.

I have encountered a problem with the Director of Childrens Church and I have been wondering if the Lord really called me, as the frustration level was extremely high this past month. Then as I was reading Matthew5:19 B
But whoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of Heaven.

Jesus spoke to me in this verse. I believe He thinks I am doing a great job, and I came to the conclusion that if Jesus says I am doing a good job, and He wants me to do this, then the things that were bothering me are not important. The only thing that is important is that Jesus said, Good Job, Deb.
Also this Sunday in church we had a Prophet speaking. And he said something that also spoke to my heart. He said there are 8 giftings, and if the Lord has given you one, and has asked you to use it, you had better use it! When he said that, My heart said, "Okay Lord, I got the point." :-)

Well looking forward to sharing the Bible with everybody.
God Bless each one of you this week, and may your Knowledge and Wisdom be increased.
Deb

[John]

"Reading the Bible regularly? Going to church regularly? Being part of a small group or community group or Bible study with other Christians regularly? Praying regularly?"

Yes to all these. In addition, joyful offerings at worship, and fasting (for the right reasons).

During tough times I thank God "in" all circumstances, not "for" all circumstances. And I just flat out believe that the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob has proven himself a faithful God that will keep his word and who will complete his works.

As to verses, I am in complete agreement with Deffinbaugh on his Abraham analysis.

For me Matthew 7:23 is the interesting verse. The Greek word for "know" used here is "ginosko". It is the Biblical "know" that connotes consumation of marriage, where male and female are together as one. So NO MATTER what you do in Christ's name, unless he knows (ginosko) you in the intimate fashion of marriage - as one. Unless he abides in you, and you in him. then your works are for naught. It is the verse and context I use when talking to Catholics about the concept of "grace vs works" and whether they have accepted Christ into their lives and heart.

[Cory]

Pastor Jim,
Can you elaborate on the difference between "good works" and "being doers of God's word?"

[Pastor Jim]

Cory asked if I could elaborate on the difference between "good works" and "being doers of God's word?"

"Good works" in short is man's attempt to earn God's favour by that which he does.

Being a doer of God's Word. (God's Word is God's Will) is acting on the Word of God - Not to earn God's favour but as the result of a changed heart.

Obedience/Doing/Acting is your opportunity to express your love and commitment to God.

His life, received by grace, will result in our doing Gods Word (will)--to be sure.

Praise God I am saved by Grace alone, but because of that great salvation and now being a new creation. My "doing" God's will is the outcome of a changed life.

I like to tell people that God has changed my "want to's"

AMEN for that!

Pastor Jim

[Cory]

Pastor Jim,
I see your distinction. It's the chicken or the egg: One is a striving, and the other is a responding.

[Debby]

Has anyone ever seen a painting of Ishmael and his mother that actually showed Ishmael his true age - a young man of at least 17 years old? Why didn't Ishmael go find the water?
I also found it quite interesting that Ishmael had 12 sons. (How did I miss that before?), like Jacob had 12 sons.....
I love the way the OT and NT readings seem to go together each day!
What a blessing!

[R]

Debby,

You said: >>Has anyone ever seen a painting of Ishmael and his mother that actually showed Ishmael his true age - a young man of at least 17 years old? Why didn't Ishmael go find the water?>>

I have thought about that before. But what you are seeing in those pictures are people's assumptions. I once took a class taught by a Yale Divinity M.Div grad who kept talking about the young child Ishmael in a secular Survey of the Bible class. After about 15 minutes I lovingly (at least I hope I did), raised my hand and pointed out, "Excuse me but Ishmael had to have been about 17 then took him to the scriptures that pointed out the ages of the main characters. There were others in the class who had read the assignment with diligence who concurred. The problem is most folk not only don't read/study the scriptures but those who claim to know them actually read/study what someone else has said about the text and not the actual text. So even if they read the Bible they read it through the glasses of their own past experience or denominational bent.

I am so thankful that God placed on Mike's heart the desire to not only start this Blog but maintain it. (It's easy to obtain but it's more difficult to maintain). Although there are a few of us here who had made reading through the bible a yearly habit, encouraging the practice in a form such as this draws more people to the discipline. Thank you Mike.

[Theresa]

hi. thanks for this website, which i only discovered a day or two ago. i went and got out my one year bible, and will make a determined effort to read the whole thing this time!!
i too, love the sermon on the mount. i have read it so many times, usually in the NLT, but the message is great too. thanks for your comments. it's always good to get other peoples thoughts and ideas.
Theresa. (from the U.K)

[Eugenia]

Hi; This web site has been one of the great discoveries I have made. I had been praying last year,to the Lord to show me how to read the Bible in a way that was no "boring". Looking in the internet I found the site. What a great way to do it. Besides with the Bible blog there is enough food for thought. The comment on the Beatitudes and the "Tower of Pride" did hit me hard...........PRAISE the LORD for that. I had read the bible many times, but this time when I am reading it, is like I never did it. Every day it seems that I find and learn something new and God speaks to me in a different way. Thanks Mike for been the link to a closer relationship with God. He will bless you abundantly, Eugenia

[Micah]

Storms do come in my life, everyone will experience storms.. I do rely on my Jesus to see me through, without Him would make life unbearable sometimes

God Bless you for what you do here...

[Brandie]

my storm was when my cousin found out he had cancer and like it is said "God gives and God takes away". God gave me time to spend with him and then when it was his time to go God took away.

[jen]

He has "never forsaken those who seek" Him
how wonderful
we are all seeking God by reading though the bible this year

[Skip]

Everytime I read the story of God telling Abraham to sacrifice Isaac I wonder if I could have obeyed and offered up my only son? That was powerful faith! and a lesson to learn to put our total faith in God.

I never made the comparison of Abraham offering up Isaac to that of God sacraficing His only son. This makes so much sense to me and I see the comparison so clearly now.

Thanks again Mike for the wonder blog!

Yours in Christ
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