All posts by John (HFJ Director)

Compassionate, Grace / Forgiveness, Learning To Pray Effectively, Loving / Kind, Merciful, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God

Seeking God’s Mercy for Our Nation (Psalm 85)

Have you ever wondered about the spiritual state of our nation? Psalm 85 offers profound insights into the dynamics between a nation and its Creator, reflecting on the blessings that come with obedience and the consequences of turning away from God.

Background Context: Psalm 85 reflects on Israel’s spiritual journey, from times of favor and restoration to seasons of rebellion and divine discipline. It resonates with nations like the United States, founded on faith yet grappling with secularism and moral relativism over time.

Reconnect: Just as Israel experienced cycles of faithfulness and waywardness, nations today, including the USA, face similar challenges. We must examine our collective conscience and turn back to God’s timeless principles to restore His favor upon our land.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 85

Prayer for God’s Mercy upon the Nation.

For the choir director. A Psalm of the sons of Korah.

1O LORD, You showed favor to Your land;
You restored the captivity of Jacob.

      2You forgave the iniquity of Your people;
You covered all their sin.

Selah.

      3You withdrew all Your fury;
You turned away from Your burning anger.

      4Restore us, O God of our salvation,
And cause Your indignation toward us to cease.

      5Will You be angry with us forever?
Will You prolong Your anger to all generations?

      6Will You not Yourself revive us again,
That Your people may rejoice in You?

      7Show us Your lovingkindness, O LORD,
And grant us Your salvation.

      8I will hear what God the LORD will say;
For He will speak peace to His people, to His godly ones;
But let them not turn back to folly.

      9Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him,
That glory may dwell in our land.

      10Lovingkindness and truth have met together;
Righteousness and peace have kissed each other.

      11Truth springs from the earth,
And righteousness looks down from heaven.

      12Indeed, the LORD will give what is good,
And our land will yield its produce.

      13Righteousness will go before Him
And will make His footsteps into a way.

Key Summary Points:

  • Divine Expectations: God desires reverence and obedience from nations. We cannot redefine morality according to cultural whims and expect His blessings.
  • National Repentance: Like Israel, nations need sincere repentance to experience God’s forgiveness and restoration of His favor.
  • Hope in God’s Mercy: Despite national shortcomings, God is merciful. He waits for our collective return to Him, ready to forgive and bless abundantly.

Call to Action:

  • Personal Examination: Reflect on your own relationship with God and how it influences your impact on society.
  • Intercessory Prayer: Pray for revival among believers in your nation, that they may shine God’s light and influence others to seek Him.
  • National Repentance: Pray for leaders and citizens to turn from worldly ideologies and embrace God’s truth, leading to national healing and renewal.

Closing: As we meditate on Psalm 85, let us earnestly seek God’s mercy for our nation. May we, as individuals and communities of faith, embody His truth and grace, serving as beacons of hope and reconciliation in a world in need of His divine intervention.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we humbly come before You, acknowledging our nation’s need for Your mercy and forgiveness. Grant us the courage to repent and turn from our worldly ways. Strengthen Your people to boldly proclaim Your truth and love, leading others to seek Your face. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done in our nation as it is in heaven. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Am I on the path?, Free Will, Guide, Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Purposeful / Intentional, Repenting from Sin, Submitted / Servant

Christian Freedom… Freedom From What?

I hear many talk about “Christian Freedom” as if it is a license from Jesus to do whatever we want as if He is ok with any behavior. Some treat it like a “get out of jail free” card from Monopoly. It is used as an excuse to ignore God’s law and commands because we will be forgiven by grace through faith thanks to Jesus’ death and resurrection on our behalf… for our sins.

This view has some truth, but also some dangerous misinterpretation of scripture that can lead us to live our lives far from the path that God intends. Let us look closely. It is true we are saved by grace through faith.

Ephesians 2:8-9

8For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.

It is true that scripture discusses “freedom”. But we must ask ourselves… “Freedom from what?” It is not freedom from obeying God’s commands and law. It is not freedom from discipling ourselves after Christ in behavior and attitude toward obeying the Father. It is freedom from sin so we can follow Christ! It is freedom from seeking salvation through perfect adherence to the law, which is impossible for man! In fact, when we are set free from sin we are then free to follow and obey Jehovah through the example of Christ. Then, when we disciple ourselves after Christ, we want to follow and obey the laws and commands of Jehovah as He did!

Acts 13:38-39

38“Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through Him forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, 39and through Him everyone who believes is freed from all things, from which you could not be freed through the Law of Moses.

Acts 13 clearly confirms it is freedom from sin… freedom from all things which you could not be freed through the law of Moses… which is to clearly state that it is not “freedom from the law of Moses”.

Galatians 5:1-12

Walk by the Spirit

      1It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.

      2Behold I, Paul, say to you that if you receive circumcision, Christ will be of no benefit to you. 3And I testify again to every man who receives circumcision, that he is under obligation to keep the whole Law. 4You have been severed from Christ, you who are seeking to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. 5For we through the Spirit, by faith, are waiting for the hope of righteousness. 6For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.

      7You were running well; who hindered you from obeying the truth? 8This persuasion did not come from Him who calls you. 9A little leaven leavens the whole lump of dough. 10I have confidence in you in the Lord that you will adopt no other view; but the one who is disturbing you will bear his judgment, whoever he is. 11But I, brethren, if I still preach circumcision, why am I still persecuted? Then the stumbling block of the cross has been abolished. 12I wish that those who are troubling you would even mutilate themselves.

Let us be cautious not to turn our “freedom” received through Christ into an opportunity to live our lives in sin, rejecting all that Christ taught us by doing what we want to do instead of what He tells us to do. The Law is really established by God to show us how to love Him and love our neighbors. To that end it is never obsolete. This does not mean we ignore the law and just say to ourselves “I have nice warm feelings toward everyone and accept all behaviors so I don’t have any conflict.” May it never be! God’s law shows us, by obeying it, how to love our neighbors and yes it results in conflict at times. God does not accept all behaviors and belief systems. We see this clearly demonstrated in Galatians 5 below… Paul speaks of loving our neighbor and then goes into great detail to explain examples of wrong behavior / attitudes to avoid and right behaviors / attitudes to embrace that are part of doing just that. Loving our neighbor and loving God is evidenced by our conscious consistent obedience to God’s laws and commands… not by “being nice or friendly” to people no matter the circumstance. Some need our loving correction, like children who do not know the right path to follow.

 Galatians 5:13-26 

     13For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. 14For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” 15But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another.

      16But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. 17For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. 19Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, 21envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

      25If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. 26Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another.

When we truly disciple ourselves after Christ, we are free from sin and free from the need to be saved through perfect obedience to the law of God. However, we are free so that if we truly follow Jesus as Messiah we will obey God’s laws and instructions rather than do whatever we feel like or whatever the world tells us is acceptable.

Pray that God would show you areas in your life where you are relying too much on “Christian freedom” as a reason not to repent of wrong behavior in yourself or as reason to accept wrong behavior in others around you. Look to God’s word for what is right and good instead of to man.

—-

Have you submitted your life to Jesus Christ? If you die today, do you know for sure that you would be with God in heaven? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God, Protector / Deliverer, Repenting from Sin, Sin, Traditions / Holidays

True Freedom: Celebrating Independence Day with a Reflection on Freedom in Christ

As the United States celebrates Independence Day, we are reminded of the historic struggle for freedom from tyranny and the birth of a nation built on the ideals of liberty.

This July 4th, while enjoying the fireworks and festivities, let us also delve deeper into a more profound freedom—the spiritual liberty granted to us through Christ, which liberates us from the bondage of sin and empowers us to serve God wholeheartedly.

Historical and Spiritual Freedom: The celebration of Independence Day is not just about commemorating the past; it’s about appreciating the freedoms we enjoy today. However, it’s also an opportunity to reflect on the spiritual freedom we have in Christ, as taught in the Scriptures. This freedom does not absolve us from responsibility but calls us to live according to God’s will, under His guidance and laws.

Freedom in Christ – Not a License to Sin: The Apostle Paul discusses this concept extensively:

  • Romans 8:1-4 explains that while we are free from the “law of sin and death” thanks to Christ, this freedom is not an excuse to ignore God’s commandments. Rather, it empowers us to live righteously, aligned with the Spirit rather than the flesh.

Romans 8:1-4

1Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. 3For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, 4so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

The Misconception of Lawlessness: It’s crucial to understand that Christ’s fulfillment of the Law does not equate to its nullification. Christ himself adhered to these laws, setting an example for us to follow, not to discard. Jesus critiqued not the law itself but the Pharisees’ and Sadducees’ legalistic and burdensome interpretations that overshadowed its true purpose.

The Role of God’s Law: The psalmist in Psalm 119 expresses a deep love for God’s law, recognizing it as a source of wisdom, joy, and peace. These statutes are described not as burdens but as blessings that guide us toward righteousness and closer communion with God.

Psalm 119 (excerpts)

97O how I love Your law!
It is my meditation all the day.

98Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies,
For they are ever mine.

—

142Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,
And Your law is truth.

143Trouble and anguish have come upon me,
Yet Your commandments are my delight.

—

162I rejoice at Your word,
As one who finds great spoil.

163I hate and despise falsehood,
But I love Your law.

164Seven times a day I praise You,
Because of Your righteous ordinances.

165Those who love Your law have great peace,
And nothing causes them to stumble.

—

171Let my lips utter praise,
For You teach me Your statutes.

172Let my tongue sing of Your word,
For all Your commandments are righteousness.

Call to Action:

  1. Reflect on True Freedom: Spend time this Independence Day reflecting on the freedom you have in Christ. Consider how this spiritual liberty influences your daily decisions and relationships.
  2. Study and Share: Dive deeper into the scriptures that discuss God’s laws and freedom in Christ. Share these insights with friends and family, perhaps during your Independence Day celebrations.
  3. Live Responsibly: Embrace the responsibility that comes with freedom. Make choices that reflect your commitment to God’s laws and the example set by Christ.
  4. Engage in Prayer and Fellowship: Use this day as an opportunity to pray for our nation and its leaders, that they may govern wisely and justly, honoring the freedoms we hold dear.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of freedom, both national and spiritual, through Christ our Savior. As we celebrate this Independence Day, let us remember the sacrifices made for our freedoms and the ultimate sacrifice Christ made to free us from sin. Help us to live lives worthy of this gift, guided by Your Spirit and committed to Your principles. Strengthen us to be bearers of Your light and truth in a world that deeply needs it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Holy Spirit / Ruach HaKodesh, Spiritual Warfare

The Power of Spiritual Renewal and Filling (Luke 11:14-26)

Have you ever felt the grip of something dark and unsettling in your life, only to find relief when it was expelled?

In Luke 11:14-26, Jesus performs a miraculous healing by casting out a demon from a mute man. Yet, His teaching afterward reveals deeper insights into spiritual warfare and the crucial importance of filling our lives with God’s presence.

Background Context: Jesus had just cast out a demon, allowing a mute man to speak. While many marveled at this display of divine power, others cynically attributed it to Beelzebul, the ruler of demons. Jesus seized this moment to teach about the nature of spiritual battles and the necessity of spiritual renewal.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 11:14-26

      14And He was casting out a demon, and it was mute; when the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke; and the crowds were amazed. 15But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons.” 16Others, to test Him, were demanding of Him a sign from heaven. 17But He knew their thoughts and said to them, “Any kingdom divided against itself is laid waste; and a house divided against itself falls. 18“If Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul. 19“And if I by Beelzebul cast out demons, by whom do your sons cast them out? So they will be your judges. 20“But if I cast out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. 21“When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are undisturbed. 22“But when someone stronger than he attacks him and overpowers him, he takes away from him all his armor on which he had relied and distributes his plunder. 23“He who is not with Me is against Me; and he who does not gather with Me, scatters.

      24“When the unclean spirit goes out of a man, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and not finding any, it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ 25“And when it comes, it finds it swept and put in order. 26“Then it goes and takes along seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they go in and live there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first.”

Key Messages:

  • The Stronger Power: Jesus clarifies that He casts out demons by the finger of God, signaling the arrival of God’s kingdom. He illustrates that only a power greater than Satan’s can disarm him and liberate souls from his influence.
  • Spiritual Vulnerability: After expulsion, if the heart and life remain empty or unguarded, the expelled evil can return with even greater force, worsening one’s state. This underscores the importance of not only deliverance but also spiritual filling and fortification.
  • A Call to Commitment: Jesus warns that neutrality is not an option in the spiritual realm. We are either aligned with Christ or against Him. To safeguard against spiritual attacks, we must wholeheartedly embrace and follow Him.

Call to Action:

  • Spiritual Cleansing and Filling: Recognize areas in your life where spiritual darkness may lurk. Embrace God’s power to cleanse and renew. Invite the Holy Spirit to dwell in you, filling every void with His presence and protection.
  • Daily Devotion: Commit to cultivating a vibrant relationship with God through prayer, worship, and Bible study. Nurture fellowship with fellow believers who can support and encourage your spiritual journey.
  • Awareness of Spiritual Warfare: Equip yourself with knowledge about spiritual warfare. Understand the tactics of the enemy and rely on God’s strength to resist and overcome.

Closing: As we reflect on Jesus’ teachings in Luke 11:14-26, let us embrace God’s power to cleanse and renew our hearts. May we be vigilant in filling our lives with His Spirit, guarding against the return of spiritual darkness. Let us commit to walking closely with Christ, trusting in His victory over all spiritual forces.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your power to deliver and renew us. Help us to acknowledge our spiritual vulnerabilities and to invite Your Holy Spirit into our lives. Strengthen us to resist the schemes of the enemy and to live victoriously in Your presence. May our hearts be continually filled with Your love and truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Discerning / Judging, Miracles, Share the Good News, Spiritual Warfare

Insights from Jesus on True Power and Discernment (Luke 11:14-23)

Have you ever encountered skepticism or disbelief despite witnessing undeniable signs of God’s power?

In Luke 11:14-23, we see Jesus perform a miraculous healing by casting out a demon, yet instead of recognizing God’s work, some chose to attribute it to sinister forces. This passage reveals profound insights into spiritual discernment and the nature of true faith.

Background Context: Jesus had just performed a remarkable miracle—casting out a demon from a mute man, causing him to speak. While many were amazed and recognized this as a divine act, others cynically dismissed it, attributing the miracle to Beelzebul, the ruler of demons. Some even demanded further signs, despite witnessing such a powerful display of God’s authority.

Luke 11:14-23

      14And He was casting out a demon, and it was mute; when the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke; and the crowds were amazed. 15But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons.” 16Others, to test Him, were demanding of Him a sign from heaven. 17But He knew their thoughts and said to them, “Any kingdom divided against itself is laid waste; and a house divided against itself falls. 18“If Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul. 19“And if I by Beelzebul cast out demons, by whom do your sons cast them out? So they will be your judges. 20“But if I cast out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. 21“When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are undisturbed. 22“But when someone stronger than he attacks him and overpowers him, he takes away from him all his armor on which he had relied and distributes his plunder. 23“He who is not with Me is against Me; and he who does not gather with Me, scatters.

Key Messages:

  • Rejecting Truth through Preconceptions: The Pharisees’ refusal to accept Jesus’ authority stemmed from their predetermined disbelief. Even faced with irrefutable evidence of God’s power, they chose to deny it, illustrating how entrenched unbelief can be.
  • True Source of Power: Jesus counters their accusations logically—how could He, who opposes Satan’s kingdom, possibly cast out demons by Satan’s power? It defies reason and underscores that only God’s power can triumph over evil.
  • Signs of God’s Kingdom: Jesus teaches that His ability to cast out demons by the finger of God signifies the arrival of God’s kingdom. This demonstrates that God’s authority is breaking into the world to deliver people from darkness and oppression.

Call to Action:

  • Discerning Spiritually: Reflect on how we discern spiritual matters today. Are we open to God’s work and willing to see His hand even in unexpected ways, or are we quick to dismiss divine intervention due to preconceived notions?
  • Bold Witnessing: Despite encountering skepticism or rejection, commit to boldly proclaiming the truth of Christ. Just as Jesus confronted misconceptions with clarity and truth, let us share the Gospel with courage and compassion.

Closing: As we navigate a world often skeptical of God’s power, let us remember that true discernment comes from being aligned with God’s truth. May we be steadfast in our faith, unwavering in our commitment to proclaim Christ, and trusting in His sovereignty over all things.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, grant us wisdom and discernment as we walk in a world filled with skepticism and disbelief. Help us to see Your hand at work and to boldly proclaim the truth of Your Gospel. Strengthen us to stand firm in our faith and to trust in Your power to overcome all darkness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Learning To Pray Effectively

Insights on Prayer: Learning from Jesus (Luke 11:1-13)

Have you ever felt uncertain about how to pray or wondered if your prayers really make a difference?

In Luke 11:1-13, Jesus teaches us valuable lessons about prayer that can transform our approach to communication with God.

Background Context: Luke 11 opens with Jesus praying, prompting one of His disciples to ask Him to teach them how to pray. Jesus then gives them the model prayer, often known as the Lord’s Prayer, and follows it with teachings on persistence in prayer and the Father’s willingness to give good gifts to His children.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 11:1-13

Instruction about Prayer

     1It happened that while Jesus was praying in a certain place, after He had finished, one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray just as John also taught his disciples.”

2And He said to them, “When you pray, say:
‘Father, hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.

      3‘Give us each day our daily bread.

      4‘And forgive us our sins,
For we ourselves also forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
And lead us not into temptation.’”

      5Then He said to them, “Suppose one of you has a friend, and goes to him at midnight and says to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves; 6for a friend of mine has come to me from a journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; 7and from inside he answers and says, ‘Do not bother me; the door has already been shut and my children and I are in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything.’ 8“I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will get up and give him as much as he needs.

      9“So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 10“For everyone who asks, receives; and he who seeks, finds; and to him who knocks, it will be opened. 11“Now suppose one of you fathers is asked by his son for a fish; he will not give him a snake instead of a fish, will he? 12“Or if he is asked for an egg, he will not give him a scorpion, will he? 13“If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?”

Message: In Luke 11:1-13, Jesus provides profound insights into prayer:

  • The Model Prayer: Jesus teaches His disciples how to pray, emphasizing reverence for God, submission to His will, dependence on Him for daily needs, forgiveness of sins, and deliverance from temptation (Luke 11:2-4).
  • Persistence in Prayer: Jesus tells a parable about a friend who persists in asking for bread at midnight, illustrating the importance of persistence in prayer and God’s responsiveness to our persistent requests (Luke 11:5-8).
  • God’s Goodness in Giving: Jesus assures His disciples that if earthly fathers know how to give good gifts to their children, how much more will our Heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him! (Luke 11:9-13).

Summary Key Points:

  • The Model of Prayer: The Lord’s Prayer serves as a guide for our prayer life, focusing on God’s glory, His kingdom, our daily needs, forgiveness, and protection from temptation.
  • Persistence and Faith: Jesus encourages us to persist in prayer, trusting that God hears and answers according to His perfect timing and wisdom.
  • Assurance of God’s Goodness: Our Heavenly Father desires to give us good gifts, particularly the Holy Spirit, who empowers us in our Christian walk and guides us in prayer.

Call to Action:

  • Embrace Persistent Prayer: Commit to a life of persistent prayer, trusting in God’s faithfulness and His perfect timing for answering prayers.
  • Dive Deeper into How to Pray: Read more – How to Pray Effectively
  • Follow the Model Prayer: Use the Lord’s Prayer as a framework for your own prayers, focusing on God’s glory, His will, daily needs, forgiveness, and spiritual protection.
  • Seek the Holy Spirit: Ask God to fill you with His Holy Spirit daily, empowering you to live according to His will and to pray with faith and expectancy.

Applying in Our Lives: Let us approach prayer with confidence, knowing that God hears us and delights in answering our prayers according to His will. May we persistently seek His face, aligning our hearts with His kingdom purposes, and relying on His provision and guidance in every aspect of our lives.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching us the power and importance of prayer through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to pray with persistence and faith, trusting in Your goodness and perfect timing. Fill us afresh with Your Holy Spirit that we may live according to Your will and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Intgegrity / Honesty, Proverbs (Wisdom & Folly), Unteachable / Foolish, Wise

Living with Integrity (Prov 20)

Have you ever considered the impact of your choices on your character and relationships? Proverbs 20 provides timeless wisdom on the virtues of integrity, wisdom, and righteous living.

Background Context: Proverbs 20 is a collection of wise sayings attributed to King Solomon, focusing on various aspects of human behavior, relationships, and the consequences of choices. It emphasizes the importance of living with integrity before God and others.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Proverbs 20

On Life and Conduct

1Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler,
And whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise.

2The terror of a king is like the growling of a lion;
He who provokes him to anger forfeits his own life.

3Keeping away from strife is an honor for a man,
But any fool will quarrel.

4The sluggard does not plow after the autumn,
So he begs during the harvest and has nothing.

5A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water,
But a man of understanding draws it out.

6Many a man proclaims his own loyalty,
But who can find a trustworthy man?

7A righteous man who walks in his integrity—
How blessed are his sons after him.

8A king who sits on the throne of justice
Disperses all evil with his eyes.

9Who can say, “I have cleansed my heart,
I am pure from my sin”?

10Differing weights and differing measures,
Both of them are abominable to the LORD.

11It is by his deeds that a lad distinguishes himself
If his conduct is pure and right.

12The hearing ear and the seeing eye,
The LORD has made both of them.

13Do not love sleep, or you will become poor;
Open your eyes, and you will be satisfied with food.

14“Bad, bad,” says the buyer,
But when he goes his way, then he boasts.

15There is gold, and an abundance of jewels;
But the lips of knowledge are a more precious thing.

16Take his garment when he becomes surety for a stranger;
And for foreigners, hold him in pledge.

17Bread obtained by falsehood is sweet to a man,
But afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel.

18Prepare plans by consultation,
And make war by wise guidance.

19He who goes about as a slanderer reveals secrets,
Therefore do not associate with a gossip.

20He who curses his father or his mother,
His lamp will go out in time of darkness.

21An inheritance gained hurriedly at the beginning
Will not be blessed in the end.

22Do not say, “I will repay evil”;
Wait for the LORD, and He will save you.

23Differing weights are an abomination to the LORD,
And a false scale is not good.

24Man’s steps are ordained by the LORD,
How then can man understand his way?

25It is a trap for a man to say rashly, “It is holy!”
And after the vows to make inquiry.

26A wise king winnows the wicked,
And drives the threshing wheel over them.

27The spirit of man is the lamp of the LORD,
Searching all the innermost parts of his being.

28Loyalty and truth preserve the king,
And he upholds his throne by righteousness.

29The glory of young men is their strength,
And the honor of old men is their gray hair.

30Stripes that wound scour away evil,
And strokes reach the innermost parts.

Message: In Proverbs 20, Solomon addresses the themes of honesty, integrity, and wise decision-making. He contrasts these virtues with the dangers of deceit, laziness, and folly. The passage highlights the rewards of righteous living and the pitfalls of pursuing selfish gain.

Summary Key Points:

  • The Value of Integrity: Proverbs 20 underscores the importance of honesty and integrity in all aspects of life. It encourages us to speak truthfully and act justly.
  • Wise Decision-Making: The passage emphasizes the need for wisdom in decision-making, cautioning against hasty judgments and urging us to seek God’s guidance.
  • The Consequences of Actions: It teaches that our actions have repercussions—both positive and negative—and encourages us to consider the long-term impact of our choices.

Call to Action:

  • Cultivate Integrity: Commit to living a life of honesty and integrity in your words and actions. Let your yes be yes and your no be no, reflecting the character of Christ.
  • Seek Wisdom: Ask God for wisdom daily to make sound decisions that honor Him and benefit others. Seek His guidance through prayer and studying His Word.
  • Consider Consequences: Be mindful of the consequences of your actions. Choose paths that lead to righteousness and avoid paths that lead to destruction.

Applying in Our Lives: As we meditate on Proverbs 20, let us strive to embody its teachings in our daily lives. May we be known for our integrity, wisdom, and discernment. Let us honor God in all we do, seeking to bring glory to His name through our conduct and decisions.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word. Grant us grace to live with integrity and wisdom in a world that often values deceit and self-interest. Help us to honor You in all our ways and to seek Your will in every decision. May our lives reflect Your righteousness and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Hope, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Psalms, Seeking God

Longing for God’s Presence (Psalm 84)

Have you ever felt a deep longing for something—perhaps a sense of belonging, peace, or fulfillment that seems just out of reach?

Psalm 84 resonates with the yearning of the soul for God’s presence, portraying a heartfelt desire to dwell in His courts.

Background Context: Psalm 84 is a song of pilgrimage, traditionally sung by worshippers journeying to Jerusalem for the annual festivals. It expresses a profound longing for communion with God and the joy of being in His presence. The psalmist reflects on the beauty of God’s dwelling place and the blessings found in worshiping Him.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 84

Longing for the Temple Worship.

For the choir director; on the Gittith. A Psalm of the sons of Korah.

1How lovely are Your dwelling places,
O LORD of hosts!

2My soul longed and even yearned for the courts of the LORD;
My heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God.

3The bird also has found a house,
And the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young,
Even Your altars, O LORD of hosts,
My King and my God.

4How blessed are those who dwell in Your house!
They are ever praising You.

Selah.

5How blessed is the man whose strength is in You,
In whose heart are the highways to Zion!

6Passing through the valley of Baca they make it a spring;
The early rain also covers it with blessings.

7They go from strength to strength,
Every one of them appears before God in Zion.

8O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer;
Give ear, O God of Jacob!

Selah.

9Behold our shield, O God,
And look upon the face of Your anointed.

10For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand outside.
I would rather stand at the threshold of the house of my God
Than dwell in the tents of wickedness.

11For the LORD God is a sun and shield;
The LORD gives grace and glory;
No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.

12O LORD of hosts,
How blessed is the man who trusts in You!

Message: In Psalm 84, the psalmist paints a vivid picture of the sanctuary, where even the sparrows find a home near God’s altars. The blessedness of dwelling in God’s house and the joy of praising Him are central themes. It speaks of the strength and refreshment found in God, likening Him to a sun and shield, bestowing grace and glory on those who seek Him.

Summary Key Points:

  • Longing for God’s Presence: The psalmist passionately desires to dwell in God’s presence and finds joy in worshiping Him.
  • Strength and Blessing: God provides strength and favor to those who trust in Him, guiding them on their journey.
  • The Beauty of Worship: The sanctuary is a place of refuge and blessing, where God meets His people and grants them His grace.

Call to Action:

  • Seek God Diligently: Like the psalmist, cultivate a longing for God’s presence in your life. Spend time in prayer, worship, and reading His Word to deepen your relationship with Him.
  • Find Joy in Worship: Embrace the joy and blessings of worshiping God, whether individually or in community. Let your heart overflow with gratitude for His faithfulness and goodness.

Applying in Our Lives: As we meditate on Psalm 84, let us cultivate a deeper hunger for God’s presence. May we find joy and strength in worshiping Him, knowing that He graciously meets us wherever we are. Let us be encouraged to seek Him earnestly and experience His blessings in our daily lives.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the privilege of seeking Your presence and worshiping You. Stir within us a deep longing to dwell in Your house and experience Your grace and strength. Help us to worship You in spirit and truth, finding joy and fulfillment in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Knowing, Justice / Judgment, Merciful, Repenting from Sin

Exposing Injustice and God’s Call to Repentance (Ezekiel 22)

Have you ever felt a sense of outrage at injustice? Maybe you’ve witnessed or experienced unfairness that stirred something deep within your soul.

Ezekiel 22 exposes the stark reality of societal corruption and the call for repentance that echoes through generations.

Background Context: Ezekiel 22 vividly portrays the moral decay and rampant injustice in Jerusalem. The prophet Ezekiel, guided by God, reveals the sins of the city’s leaders, priests, and people—ranging from idolatry and oppression to dishonesty and violence. The city, meant to be a beacon of God’s righteousness, had become a cesspool of wickedness.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Ezekiel 22

The Sins of Israel

      1Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 2“And you, son of man, will you judge, will you judge the bloody city? Then cause her to know all her abominations. 3“You shall say, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD, “A city shedding blood in her midst, so that her time will come, and that makes idols, contrary to her interest, for defilement! 4“You have become guilty by the blood which you have shed, and defiled by your idols which you have made. Thus you have brought your day near and have come to your years; therefore I have made you a reproach to the nations and a mocking to all the lands. 5“Those who are near and those who are far from you will mock you, you of ill repute, full of turmoil.

      6“Behold, the rulers of Israel, each according to his power, have been in you for the purpose of shedding blood. 7“They have treated father and mother lightly within you. The alien they have oppressed in your midst; the fatherless and the widow they have wronged in you. 8“You have despised My holy things and profaned My sabbaths. 9“Slanderous men have been in you for the purpose of shedding blood, and in you they have eaten at the mountain shrines. In your midst they have committed acts of lewdness. 10“In you they have uncovered their fathers’ nakedness; in you they have humbled her who was unclean in her menstrual impurity. 11“One has committed abomination with his neighbor’s wife and another has lewdly defiled his daughter-in-law. And another in you has humbled his sister, his father’s daughter. 12“In you they have taken bribes to shed blood; you have taken interest and profits, and you have injured your neighbors for gain by oppression, and you have forgotten Me,” declares the Lord GOD.

      13“Behold, then, I smite My hand at your dishonest gain which you have acquired and at the bloodshed which is among you. 14“Can your heart endure, or can your hands be strong in the days that I will deal with you? I, the LORD, have spoken and will act. 15“I will scatter you among the nations and I will disperse you through the lands, and I will consume your uncleanness from you. 16“You will profane yourself in the sight of the nations, and you will know that I am the LORD.”’”

      17And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 18“Son of man, the house of Israel has become dross to Me; all of them are bronze and tin and iron and lead in the furnace; they are the dross of silver. 19“Therefore, thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Because all of you have become dross, therefore, behold, I am going to gather you into the midst of Jerusalem. 20‘As they gather silver and bronze and iron and lead and tin into the furnace to blow fire on it in order to melt it, so I will gather you in My anger and in My wrath and I will lay you there and melt you. 21‘I will gather you and blow on you with the fire of My wrath, and you will be melted in the midst of it. 22‘As silver is melted in the furnace, so you will be melted in the midst of it; and you will know that I, the LORD, have poured out My wrath on you.’”

      23And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 24“Son of man, say to her, ‘You are a land that is not cleansed or rained on in the day of indignation.’ 25“There is a conspiracy of her prophets in her midst like a roaring lion tearing the prey. They have devoured lives; they have taken treasure and precious things; they have made many widows in the midst of her. 26“Her priests have done violence to My law and have profaned My holy things; they have made no distinction between the holy and the profane, and they have not taught the difference between the unclean and the clean; and they hide their eyes from My sabbaths, and I am profaned among them. 27“Her princes within her are like wolves tearing the prey, by shedding blood and destroying lives in order to get dishonest gain. 28“Her prophets have smeared whitewash for them, seeing false visions and divining lies for them, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,’ when the LORD has not spoken. 29“The people of the land have practiced oppression and committed robbery, and they have wronged the poor and needy and have oppressed the sojourner without justice. 30“I searched for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand in the gap before Me for the land, so that I would not destroy it; but I found no one. 31“Thus I have poured out My indignation on them; I have consumed them with the fire of My wrath; their way I have brought upon their heads,” declares the Lord GOD.

Message: In the midst of condemning Jerusalem’s sins, God’s heart for justice shines through. He calls out the leaders who exploit the vulnerable, the priests who profane His sanctuary, and the people who engage in violence and corruption. Through Ezekiel, God issues a powerful call to repentance, urging the people to turn away from their wickedness and return to Him.

Summary Key Points:

  • Injustice Exposed: Ezekiel exposes the deep-seated corruption within Jerusalem, highlighting the grievous sins that have provoked God’s righteous anger.
  • Call to Repentance: Despite the severity of their sins, God offers a pathway to restoration through repentance. He desires sincere hearts turned back to Him.
  • Divine Judgment and Mercy: God’s judgment is tempered with mercy. Even in His righteous anger, He provides an opportunity for transformation and forgiveness.

Call to Action:

  • Seek Justice: Reflect on areas of your life where injustice may exist—whether in your community, workplace, or personal relationships. Take proactive steps to advocate for righteousness and fairness.
  • Repent and Turn to God: Examine your heart for any sinful attitudes or actions. Humbly repent before God, seeking His forgiveness and committing to live according to His righteous standards.

Applying in Our Lives: As we contemplate the profound message of Ezekiel 22, let us not only recognize the sins exposed but also consider how we can apply God’s call to justice and repentance in our daily lives. Let us be agents of change, standing against injustice and embracing the transformative power of repentance through God’s grace.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You humbled by Your righteousness and mercy. We confess the injustices in our world and in our hearts. Grant us the courage to stand for justice and the humility to repent of our sins. May Your Spirit guide us in living lives that honor You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Discipline / Guidance From God, Justice / Judgment, Repenting from Sin

The Sword of Judgment and Call for Repentance (Ezekiel 21)

Have you ever faced a moment where the consequences of your actions or choices felt imminent, like a sword hanging over your head?

Ezekiel’s vision in chapter 21 speaks to the sobering reality of divine judgment and the need for repentance.

Background Context: Ezekiel 21 is a prophecy concerning the judgment of Jerusalem, delivered by Ezekiel during the Babylonian siege of the city. It portrays God’s righteous anger against Israel’s disobedience and idolatry, symbolized by the drawn sword of judgment. This vision serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of persistent sin and the necessity of turning back to God.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Ezekiel 21

Parable of the Sword of the LORD

      1And the word of the LORD came to me saying, 2“Son of man, set your face toward Jerusalem, and speak against the sanctuaries and prophesy against the land of Israel; 3and say to the land of Israel, ‘Thus says the LORD, “Behold, I am against you; and I will draw My sword out of its sheath and cut off from you the righteous and the wicked. 4“Because I will cut off from you the righteous and the wicked, therefore My sword will go forth from its sheath against all flesh from south to north. 5“Thus all flesh will know that I, the LORD, have drawn My sword out of its sheath. It will not return to its sheath again.”’ 6“As for you, son of man, groan with breaking heart and bitter grief, groan in their sight. 7“And when they say to you, ‘Why do you groan?’ you shall say, ‘Because of the news that is coming; and every heart will melt, all hands will be feeble, every spirit will faint and all knees will be weak as water. Behold, it comes and it will happen,’ declares the Lord GOD.”

      8Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying,

9“Son of man, prophesy and say, ‘Thus says the LORD.’ Say,
‘A sword, a sword sharpened
And also polished!

      10‘Sharpened to make a slaughter,
Polished to flash like lightning!’
Or shall we rejoice, the rod of My son despising every tree?

11“It is given to be polished, that it may be handled; the sword is sharpened and polished, to give it into the hand of the slayer. 12“Cry out and wail, son of man; for it is against My people, it is against all the officials of Israel. They are delivered over to the sword with My people, therefore strike your thigh. 13“For there is a testing; and what if even the rod which despises will be no more?” declares the Lord GOD.

      14“You therefore, son of man, prophesy and clap your hands together; and let the sword be doubled the third time, the sword for the slain. It is the sword for the great one slain, which surrounds them, 15that their hearts may melt, and many fall at all their gates. I have given the glittering sword. Ah! It is made for striking like lightning, it is wrapped up in readiness for slaughter. 16“Show yourself sharp, go to the right; set yourself; go to the left, wherever your edge is appointed. 17“I will also clap My hands together, and I will appease My wrath; I, the LORD, have spoken.”

The Instrument of God’s Judgment

      18The word of the LORD came to me saying, 19“As for you, son of man, make two ways for the sword of the king of Babylon to come; both of them will go out of one land. And make a signpost; make it at the head of the way to the city. 20“You shall mark a way for the sword to come to Rabbah of the sons of Ammon, and to Judah into fortified Jerusalem. 21“For the king of Babylon stands at the parting of the way, at the head of the two ways, to use divination; he shakes the arrows, he consults the household idols, he looks at the liver. 22“Into his right hand came the divination, ‘Jerusalem,’ to set battering rams, to open the mouth for slaughter, to lift up the voice with a battle cry, to set battering rams against the gates, to cast up ramps, to build a siege wall. 23“And it will be to them like a false divination in their eyes; they have sworn solemn oaths. But he brings iniquity to remembrance, that they may be seized.

      24“Therefore, thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Because you have made your iniquity to be remembered, in that your transgressions are uncovered, so that in all your deeds your sins appear—because you have come to remembrance, you will be seized with the hand. 25‘And you, O slain, wicked one, the prince of Israel, whose day has come, in the time of the punishment of the end,’ 26thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Remove the turban and take off the crown; this will no longer be the same. Exalt that which is low and abase that which is high. 27‘A ruin, a ruin, a ruin, I will make it. This also will be no more until He comes whose right it is, and I will give it to Him.’

      28“And you, son of man, prophesy and say, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD concerning the sons of Ammon and concerning their reproach,’ and say: ‘A sword, a sword is drawn, polished for the slaughter, to cause it to consume, that it may be like lightning— 29while they see for you false visions, while they divine lies for you—to place you on the necks of the wicked who are slain, whose day has come, in the time of the punishment of the end. 30‘Return it to its sheath. In the place where you were created, in the land of your origin, I will judge you. 31‘I will pour out My indignation on you; I will blow on you with the fire of My wrath, and I will give you into the hand of brutal men, skilled in destruction. 32‘You will be fuel for the fire; your blood will be in the midst of the land. You will not be remembered, for I, the LORD, have spoken.’”

Summary Key Points:

  • Divine Judgment: God’s judgment is imminent and just, responding to persistent disobedience.
  • Call to Repentance: Ezekiel’s prophecy calls for repentance and turning back to God before judgment falls.
  • Symbolism of the Sword: The sword symbolizes the severity of God’s discipline and the consequences of unrepentant sin.

Call to Action:

  • Seek Repentance: Reflect on areas in your life where you may need to repent and turn back to God.
  • Embrace God’s Mercy: Receive God’s forgiveness and grace, knowing that He is merciful to those who humbly seek Him.

Closing: As we consider Ezekiel’s prophecy, let’s heed the call to repentance and align our lives with God’s will. May we recognize the seriousness of sin and embrace the mercy offered through Christ.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we humbly come before You, acknowledging our need for Your forgiveness and mercy. Help us to repent sincerely and turn back to You. Grant us the strength to live according to Your Word, that we may honor You in all we do. In Jesus’ name, amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.