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A Call to Wake Up and Return to God (Joel 1)

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How do we respond when everything around us seems to be falling apart?

In Joel 1, the prophet sounds an alarm as the people of Judah face a devastating plague of locusts. This calamity serves as both a warning and an invitation: a call to wake up, examine their hearts, and return to God with renewed devotion.

Key Verse:
“Wake up, you drunkards, and weep! Wail, all you drinkers of wine; wail because of the new wine, for it has been snatched from your lips.” – Joel 1:5 (NIV)

(Continued and Clarified after scripture.)

Joel 1

The Devastation of Locusts

      1The word of the LORD that came to Joel, the son of Pethuel:

      2Hear this, O elders,
And listen, all inhabitants of the land.
Has anything like this happened in your days
Or in your fathers’ days?

      3Tell your sons about it,
And let your sons tell their sons,
And their sons the next generation.

      4What the gnawing locust has left, the swarming locust has eaten;
And what the swarming locust has left, the creeping locust has eaten;
And what the creeping locust has left, the stripping locust has eaten.

      5Awake, drunkards, and weep;
And wail, all you wine drinkers,
On account of the sweet wine
That is cut off from your mouth.

      6For a nation has invaded my land,
Mighty and without number;
Its teeth are the teeth of a lion,
And it has the fangs of a lioness.

      7It has made my vine a waste
And my fig tree splinters.
It has stripped them bare and cast them away;
Their branches have become white.

      8Wail like a virgin girded with sackcloth
For the bridegroom of her youth.

      9The grain offering and the drink offering are cut off
From the house of the LORD.
The priests mourn,
The ministers of the LORD.

      10The field is ruined,
The land mourns;
For the grain is ruined,
The new wine dries up,
Fresh oil fails.

      11Be ashamed, O farmers,
Wail, O vinedressers,
For the wheat and the barley;
Because the harvest of the field is destroyed.

      12The vine dries up
And the fig tree fails;
The pomegranate, the palm also, and the apple tree,
All the trees of the field dry up.
Indeed, rejoicing dries up
From the sons of men.

      13Gird yourselves with sackcloth
And lament, O priests;
Wail, O ministers of the altar!
Come, spend the night in sackcloth
O ministers of my God,
For the grain offering and the drink offering
Are withheld from the house of your God.

Starvation and Drought

14Consecrate a fast,
Proclaim a solemn assembly;
Gather the elders
And all the inhabitants of the land
To the house of the LORD your God,
And cry out to the LORD.

      15Alas for the day!
For the day of the LORD is near,
And it will come as destruction from the Almighty.

      16Has not food been cut off before our eyes,
Gladness and joy from the house of our God?

      17The seeds shrivel under their clods;
The storehouses are desolate,
The barns are torn down,
For the grain is dried up.

      18How the beasts groan!
The herds of cattle wander aimlessly
Because there is no pasture for them;
Even the flocks of sheep suffer.

      19To You, O LORD, I cry;
For fire has devoured the pastures of the wilderness
And the flame has burned up all the trees of the field.

      20Even the beasts of the field pant for You;
For the water brooks are dried up
And fire has devoured the pastures of the wilderness.

Background Context:
The book of Joel opens with a vivid description of disaster: an unprecedented swarm of locusts has devastated Judah’s crops, leaving the people without food or resources. This calamity is a physical hardship, but Joel also highlights its spiritual dimension, calling the people to recognize their need to return to God. The destruction symbolizes a deeper call to repentance, warning of an even greater “day of the Lord” that will come if they fail to heed God’s message. Joel’s urgent words remind us of the need for sincere repentance and renewed focus on God, especially in times of crisis.

Reflection on Joel 1:

  • Recognizing Wake-Up Calls in Times of Crisis: Joel begins with a wake-up call to the people, urging them to recognize the severity of their situation. He calls out those who are spiritually asleep, living as though God’s warnings don’t apply to them. This devastation was more than just an environmental disaster; it was an invitation for self-reflection. Are there hardships in your life that may be calling you to examine your heart? Ask God for the clarity to recognize any areas where you may need to wake up and turn to Him.
  • The Urgency of True Repentance: Joel’s message emphasizes the need for genuine repentance, urging everyone—from farmers to priests—to turn to God. This call to repentance extends beyond words to a true change of heart and action. Joel calls on the people to “declare a holy fast” and “cry out to the Lord” (Joel 1:14). True repentance is marked by humility, a willingness to surrender our ways, and a commitment to seek God wholeheartedly. Is there an area of your life where you need to return to God? Approach Him with humility, seeking His mercy and forgiveness.
  • Acknowledging the Desolation of Sin: The locusts in Joel 1 symbolize the destruction that sin brings to our lives, stripping away what is good and leaving only desolation. The devastation of the crops—bread, wine, and oil—represents the loss of life’s essentials and God’s blessings due to disobedience. When we allow sin to take root, it gradually erodes our peace, joy, and spiritual well-being. Are there “locusts” in your life—habits, attitudes, or relationships—that are keeping you from God? Confess these areas, asking God to restore what has been lost.
  • Returning to God with Wholehearted Dependence: Joel urges the people to gather in the house of the Lord and cry out to Him, recognizing their complete dependence on God for restoration. In times of loss, God invites us to turn to Him, not just for deliverance but for renewed relationship. True dependence on God means acknowledging that only He can restore what has been broken. Are you relying on God in the areas where you feel most in need? Let your prayers be an honest expression of your dependence on Him.
  • The Coming “Day of the Lord”: Joel’s warning of the “day of the Lord” highlights that God’s judgment is not just a distant concept but an impending reality for those who reject Him. This day of judgment calls us to examine our lives and be ready to stand before God. Joel’s message is an invitation to prepare our hearts, knowing that the day of the Lord can come unexpectedly. Are you living with an awareness of eternity? Let this be a reminder to live each day with purpose, aligning your heart with God’s truth.

Summary Key Points:

  • Crisis as a Wake-Up Call: Hardships can serve as reminders to evaluate our lives and draw closer to God.
  • True Repentance Goes Beyond Words: Genuine repentance requires a change of heart and a commitment to turn back to God.
  • Sin Brings Spiritual Desolation: Just as locusts strip away crops, sin strips away the blessings of peace and joy.
  • Dependence on God for Restoration: God invites us to rely on Him fully, trusting Him to renew and restore what has been broken.
  • Living with an Eternal Perspective: The “day of the Lord” reminds us to live with awareness of God’s coming judgment, aligning our hearts with Him.

Application:
Reflect on any areas of your life where you may need to wake up spiritually. Consider how God may be calling you to turn back to Him in specific ways. Embrace a heart of true repentance, turning away from anything that is hindering your relationship with God. Pray for His restoration in the areas of loss or brokenness, and live each day with the awareness of His eternal purposes, seeking to align your life with His will.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your patience and mercy. Help us to recognize Your voice in times of crisis, and lead us to genuine repentance. Forgive us for any ways we have strayed from You. Restore our hearts, renew our dependence on You, and help us to live each day with a heart turned toward You. Thank You for Your unfailing love and faithfulness. 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.

Eternal, Hope, Persecution / Glorifying God, Purposeful / Intentional, Tribulation, Truth

Living with Readiness and Trust Amidst the Signs (Luke 21:5-38)

How can we face an uncertain future with confidence?

Jesus’ words in Luke 21:5-38 remind us of both the signs of the end times and the importance of spiritual readiness, pointing us to a life grounded in faith, trust, and vigilance.

Key Verse: “But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” – Luke 21:28 (NASB)

Background Context: In this passage, Jesus speaks to His disciples about the destruction of the temple, the coming trials, and His eventual return. He warns of false teachers, natural disasters, persecution, and signs in the heavens, urging His followers to stay vigilant and rooted in faith. Though these warnings may evoke fear, Jesus emphasizes hope and redemption, encouraging us to trust God’s eternal plan.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 21:5-38

 5And while some were talking about the temple, that it was adorned with beautiful stones and votive gifts, He said, 6“As for these things which you are looking at, the days will come in which there will not be left one stone upon another which will not be torn down.”

      7They questioned Him, saying, “Teacher, when therefore will these things happen? And what will be the sign when these things are about to take place?” 8And He said, “See to it that you are not misled; for many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not go after them. 9“When you hear of wars and disturbances, do not be terrified; for these things must take place first, but the end does not follow immediately.”

Things to Come

     10Then He continued by saying to them, “Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom, 11and there will be great earthquakes, and in various places plagues and famines; and there will be terrors and great signs from heaven.

      12“But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and will persecute you, delivering you to the synagogues and prisons, bringing you before kings and governors for My name’s sake. 13“It will lead to an opportunity for your testimony. 14“So make up your minds not to prepare beforehand to defend yourselves; 15for I will give you utterance and wisdom which none of your opponents will be able to resist or refute. 16“But you will be betrayed even by parents and brothers and relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death, 17and you will be hated by all because of My name. 18“Yet not a hair of your head will perish. 19“By your endurance you will gain your lives.

      20“But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then recognize that her desolation is near. 21“Then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains, and those who are in the midst of the city must leave, and those who are in the country must not enter the city; 22because these are days of vengeance, so that all things which are written will be fulfilled. 23“Woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days; for there will be great distress upon the land and wrath to this people; 24and they will fall by the edge of the sword, and will be led captive into all the nations; and Jerusalem will be trampled under foot by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.

The Return of Christ

     25“There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay among nations, in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, 26men fainting from fear and the expectation of the things which are coming upon the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27“Then they will see THE SON OF MAN COMING IN A CLOUD with power and great glory. 28“But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

      29Then He told them a parable: “Behold the fig tree and all the trees; 30as soon as they put forth leaves, you see it and know for yourselves that summer is now near. 31“So you also, when you see these things happening, recognize that the kingdom of God is near. 32“Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all things take place. 33“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.

      34“Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like a trap; 35for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth. 36“But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

      37Now during the day He was teaching in the temple, but at evening He would go out and spend the night on the mount that is called Olivet. 38And all the people would get up early in the morning to come to Him in the temple to listen to Him.

Reflection on Luke 21:5-38:

  • Earthly Things Are Temporary: As some marveled at the beauty of the temple, Jesus warned that it would one day be destroyed (Luke 21:6). This foreshadows not only the temple’s destruction but also the fleeting nature of all earthly things. We, too, are called to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that our true security lies in God, not in material or temporal things. Are you placing too much value on what is temporary? Reflect on how you can live with a heart fixed on eternal things, investing your time, energy, and resources in God’s kingdom.
  • Warnings Against Deception and Fear: Jesus cautions His followers about false messiahs and warnings of wars, natural disasters, and other troubling events. “See to it that you are not misled…do not go after them” (Luke 21:8). He urges us not to be misled or fearful when facing difficult times. In times of crisis, people often look for quick answers or charismatic leaders, but Jesus reminds us to stay rooted in His truth. Are you discerning in the voices you follow and the information you believe? Ground yourself in God’s Word and His promises to guard against fear and deception.
  • Persecution as an Opportunity for Testimony: Jesus speaks of coming persecution, betrayal, and hatred because of His name (Luke 21:12-19). Yet He also assures us that persecution can be an opportunity for testimony, promising to give us wisdom to answer our accusers. This calls us to live courageously, knowing that God can use even the hardest trials to bring others closer to Him. Are you willing to be a witness, even in times of difficulty? Trust that God will equip you with words and courage when needed.
  • Hope in Christ’s Return: Jesus describes signs in the sun, moon, stars, and the distress of nations, leading to His return in glory (Luke 21:25-27). Instead of fearing these signs, Jesus encourages His followers to “straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). This is a powerful reminder that our hope is not in earthly security but in Christ’s coming kingdom. We can look forward to His return with hope, knowing that our ultimate redemption is near. Is your heart filled with hope in Christ’s return? Let this hope shape your outlook and give you strength to face challenges with confidence.
  • Staying Spiritually Alert: Jesus emphasizes the importance of vigilance, warning us not to let our hearts be “weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life” (Luke 21:34). Instead, He calls us to “keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength” (Luke 21:36). Spiritual vigilance requires intentional living, where we avoid distractions and remain focused on God. We are encouraged to pray for strength and readiness, so we are prepared to stand before the Son of Man. Are there areas of your life that need refocusing? Seek God’s help to remain alert and prayerful, preparing your heart for His return.

Summary Key Points:

  • Value Eternal Things Over the Temporary: Earthly things are passing, so we are called to place our security in God and live with an eternal perspective.
  • Stay Rooted in Truth, Not Fear: Jesus warns of false teachers and crises that can lead to fear. By staying rooted in God’s Word, we avoid deception and find peace.
  • See Trials as Opportunities for Testimony: Persecution offers a chance to testify to God’s truth and love. God will give us the words and courage we need.
  • Live with Hope in Christ’s Return: Rather than fear, we can face the future with hope, knowing that our redemption is near and Christ will come again.
  • Remain Spiritually Vigilant: Jesus calls us to stay alert and pray for strength, resisting distractions that can pull us away from readiness for His return.

Application: Reflect on where your focus lies—are you more invested in earthly security or in God’s eternal promises? Take steps to cultivate a deeper trust in God’s Word and avoid the distractions that can lead to spiritual complacency. If you’re facing challenges, ask God to help you see them as opportunities to testify to His faithfulness. Pray for strength to stay vigilant, preparing your heart daily for Christ’s return.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promises and the hope we have in Christ’s return. Help us to keep our focus on what is eternal and to trust You in times of uncertainty. Give us discernment to recognize truth from deception and courage to stand as witnesses, even in difficult times. Keep our hearts vigilant and prayerful, so we may be ready to meet You face-to-face. Thank You for the assurance that our redemption is near. 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 Powerful / King of All, Dreams, Eternal, Faith / Trusting God, Hope, Prophecy, Prophecy, Through Prophets, Visions

Trusting God’s Sovereignty Amid Earthly Conflict (Daniel 11)

In a world of political upheaval, conflicts, and shifting powers, where do we place our trust?

Daniel 11 provides a detailed vision of future conflicts and kingdoms, but behind the chaos, we are reminded of God’s sovereignty over all.

Key Verse: “And the king shall do as he wills. He shall exalt himself and magnify himself above every god and shall speak astonishing things against the God of gods. He shall prosper till the indignation is accomplished; for what is decreed shall be done.” – Daniel 11:36 (ESV)

Background Context: Daniel 11 is one of the most detailed and challenging chapters in the Bible. It records a prophetic vision given to Daniel, detailing the rise and fall of various kings and kingdoms, including Persia, Greece, and Egypt. The passage also introduces a future king who exalts himself above all, a foreshadowing of future world rulers and perhaps the Antichrist. While these prophecies deal with real historical figures and events, they also point to the larger reality of ongoing spiritual warfare and the eventual triumph of God’s kingdom. Amid all the upheavals and conflicts, we are reminded that everything happens according to God’s sovereign will.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Daniel 11

Conflicts to Come

      1“In the first year of Darius the Mede, I arose to be an encouragement and a protection for him. 2“And now I will tell you the truth. Behold, three more kings are going to arise in Persia. Then a fourth will gain far more riches than all of them; as soon as he becomes strong through his riches, he will arouse the whole empire against the realm of Greece. 3“And a mighty king will arise, and he will rule with great authority and do as he pleases. 4“But as soon as he has arisen, his kingdom will be broken up and parceled out toward the four points of the compass, though not to his own descendants, nor according to his authority which he wielded, for his sovereignty will be uprooted and given to others besides them.

      5“Then the king of the South will grow strong, along with one of his princes who will gain ascendancy over him and obtain dominion; his domain will be a great dominion indeed. 6“After some years they will form an alliance, and the daughter of the king of the South will come to the king of the North to carry out a peaceful arrangement. But she will not retain her position of power, nor will he remain with his power, but she will be given up, along with those who brought her in and the one who sired her as well as he who supported her in those times. 7“But one of the descendants of her line will arise in his place, and he will come against their army and enter the fortress of the king of the North, and he will deal with them and display great strength. 8“Also their gods with their metal images and their precious vessels of silver and gold he will take into captivity to Egypt, and he on his part will refrain from attacking the king of the North for some years. 9“Then the latter will enter the realm of the king of the South, but will return to his own land.

      10“His sons will mobilize and assemble a multitude of great forces; and one of them will keep on coming and overflow and pass through, that he may again wage war up to his very fortress. 11“The king of the South will be enraged and go forth and fight with the king of the North. Then the latter will raise a great multitude, but that multitude will be given into the hand of the former. 12“When the multitude is carried away, his heart will be lifted up, and he will cause tens of thousands to fall; yet he will not prevail. 13“For the king of the North will again raise a greater multitude than the former, and after an interval of some years he will press on with a great army and much equipment.

      14“Now in those times many will rise up against the king of the South; the violent ones among your people will also lift themselves up in order to fulfill the vision, but they will fall down. 15“Then the king of the North will come, cast up a siege ramp and capture a well-fortified city; and the forces of the South will not stand their ground, not even their choicest troops, for there will be no strength to make a stand. 16“But he who comes against him will do as he pleases, and no one will be able to withstand him; he will also stay for a time in the Beautiful Land, with destruction in his hand. 17“He will set his face to come with the power of his whole kingdom, bringing with him a proposal of peace which he will put into effect; he will also give him the daughter of women to ruin it. But she will not take a stand for him or be on his side. 18“Then he will turn his face to the coastlands and capture many. But a commander will put a stop to his scorn against him; moreover, he will repay him for his scorn. 19“So he will turn his face toward the fortresses of his own land, but he will stumble and fall and be found no more.

      20“Then in his place one will arise who will send an oppressor through the Jewel of his kingdom; yet within a few days he will be shattered, though not in anger nor in battle. 21“In his place a despicable person will arise, on whom the honor of kingship has not been conferred, but he will come in a time of tranquility and seize the kingdom by intrigue. 22“The overflowing forces will be flooded away before him and shattered, and also the prince of the covenant. 23“After an alliance is made with him he will practice deception, and he will go up and gain power with a small force of people. 24“In a time of tranquility he will enter the richest parts of the realm, and he will accomplish what his fathers never did, nor his ancestors; he will distribute plunder, booty and possessions among them, and he will devise his schemes against strongholds, but only for a time. 25“He will stir up his strength and courage against the king of the South with a large army; so the king of the South will mobilize an extremely large and mighty army for war; but he will not stand, for schemes will be devised against him. 26“Those who eat his choice food will destroy him, and his army will overflow, but many will fall down slain. 27“As for both kings, their hearts will be intent on evil, and they will speak lies to each other at the same table; but it will not succeed, for the end is still to come at the appointed time. 28“Then he will return to his land with much plunder; but his heart will be set against the holy covenant, and he will take action and then return to his own land.

      29“At the appointed time he will return and come into the South, but this last time it will not turn out the way it did before. 30“For ships of Kittim will come against him; therefore he will be disheartened and will return and become enraged at the holy covenant and take action; so he will come back and show regard for those who forsake the holy covenant. 31“Forces from him will arise, desecrate the sanctuary fortress, and do away with the regular sacrifice. And they will set up the abomination of desolation. 32“By smooth words he will turn to godlessness those who act wickedly toward the covenant, but the people who know their God will display strength and take action. 33“Those who have insight among the people will give understanding to the many; yet they will fall by sword and by flame, by captivity and by plunder for many days. 34“Now when they fall they will be granted a little help, and many will join with them in hypocrisy. 35“Some of those who have insight will fall, in order to refine, purge and make them pure until the end time; because it is still to come at the appointed time.

      36“Then the king will do as he pleases, and he will exalt and magnify himself above every god and will speak monstrous things against the God of gods; and he will prosper until the indignation is finished, for that which is decreed will be done. 37“He will show no regard for the gods of his fathers or for the desire of women, nor will he show regard for any other god; for he will magnify himself above them all. 38“But instead he will honor a god of fortresses, a god whom his fathers did not know; he will honor him with gold, silver, costly stones and treasures. 39“He will take action against the strongest of fortresses with the help of a foreign god; he will give great honor to those who acknowledge him and will cause them to rule over the many, and will parcel out land for a price.

      40“At the end time the king of the South will collide with him, and the king of the North will storm against him with chariots, with horsemen and with many ships; and he will enter countries, overflow them and pass through. 41“He will also enter the Beautiful Land, and many countries will fall; but these will be rescued out of his hand: Edom, Moab and the foremost of the sons of Ammon. 42“Then he will stretch out his hand against other countries, and the land of Egypt will not escape. 43“But he will gain control over the hidden treasures of gold and silver and over all the precious things of Egypt; and Libyans and Ethiopians will follow at his heels. 44“But rumors from the East and from the North will disturb him, and he will go forth with great wrath to destroy and annihilate many. 45“He will pitch the tents of his royal pavilion between the seas and the beautiful Holy Mountain; yet he will come to his end, and no one will help him.

Reflection on Daniel 11:

  • The Rise and Fall of Earthly Kingdoms: Daniel 11 traces the rise and fall of various kingdoms, each vying for power and dominance. From the Persian Empire to the kingdom of Greece under Alexander the Great and his successors, the political landscape is filled with battles, betrayals, and shifting alliances (Daniel 11:2-4). This detailed prophecy shows us that, while earthly kingdoms may seem strong, they are ultimately temporary. Human rulers come and go, but God’s kingdom remains eternal. For us today, this is a reminder not to place our ultimate hope in political systems, leaders, or nations but in the unshakable kingdom of God.
  • God’s Sovereign Control: As we read through Daniel 11, it becomes clear that God is not distant from the conflicts of the world. He is fully in control, directing the course of history according to His purposes (Daniel 11:36). The detailed nature of the prophecy shows that God knows every event that will unfold. Even when it seems like the world is in chaos, God’s plan is moving forward, and His will is being accomplished. This gives us great comfort: even in the midst of political turmoil or personal challenges, we can trust that God is working everything according to His sovereign plan.
  • The Arrogance of Earthly Powers: In verse 36, we encounter a ruler who exalts himself above all gods, speaking blasphemous things and magnifying himself (Daniel 11:36-37). This figure represents not just historical rulers but also the pride and arrogance of all human powers that set themselves up against God. Yet, the verse also reminds us that this ruler will only prosper “until the indignation is accomplished”—that is, until God’s purposes are fulfilled. The lesson here is clear: no matter how powerful or arrogant human leaders may seem, they are subject to God’s ultimate authority. The self-exaltation of man is temporary, but God’s reign is eternal.
  • Perseverance in the Midst of Tribulation: Daniel 11:32 speaks of those who “know their God” and “stand firm and take action” during times of persecution and trial. While many will fall away or be deceived by corrupt leaders, those who remain faithful to God will endure. This is a call to perseverance, especially in times of difficulty or uncertainty. We are encouraged to know God deeply, trust His promises, and stand firm in our faith, even when the world around us is unstable.
  • God’s Ultimate Victory: While Daniel 11 paints a picture of conflict, war, and human pride, the underlying message is that God’s plan will ultimately prevail. The chapter hints at a final conflict and the rise of a blasphemous leader, yet the closing verses point us to God’s final judgment and the triumph of His kingdom. Earthly kingdoms will fall, but God’s rule will never end. This gives us hope, knowing that no matter how chaotic or uncertain the present may seem, the future belongs to God.

Summary Key Points:

  • Earthly Kingdoms Are Temporary: The rise and fall of kingdoms in Daniel 11 remind us that human powers are fleeting, but God’s kingdom is eternal.
  • God’s Sovereignty Over History: Every event, leader, and kingdom is under God’s sovereign control, and He is directing history according to His plan.
  • The Arrogance of Man: Earthly rulers may exalt themselves and oppose God, but their power is limited and temporary. God alone reigns forever.
  • Perseverance and Faithfulness: In the midst of turmoil, those who know God are called to stand firm, remain faithful, and take action for His kingdom.
  • Hope in God’s Ultimate Victory: While the world may be filled with conflict and instability, we have hope in the final triumph of God’s kingdom.

Application: Reflect on the current challenges or uncertainties in your life or the world around you. Are you placing your trust in earthly systems, leaders, or solutions, or are you trusting in God’s unshakable kingdom? Consider how you can cultivate a deeper knowledge of God and a stronger faith, so that you can stand firm during difficult times. Pray for the strength to persevere in faith, knowing that God is in control of every event in history. Let this passage remind you that, while human powers may rise and fall, God’s reign is eternal, and His victory is certain.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your sovereignty over all of history. In the midst of political turmoil, uncertainty, and conflict, help us to place our trust in You and Your eternal kingdom. Teach us to persevere in faith, standing firm in Your promises, even when the world around us seems unstable. Remind us that You are in control of every event, every leader, and every kingdom, and that Your ultimate victory is assured. We trust in You, Lord, and we give You all the glory. 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 Powerful / King of All, Eternal, Faith / Trusting God, Father / Yahweh, Government, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Justice / Judgment, Purposeful / Intentional, Strong in Our Weakness, Submitted / Servant, Visions, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

The Ancient of Days: Finding Hope in God’s Eternal Kingdom (Daniel 7)

In a world where kingdoms rise and fall, where chaos and uncertainty seem to reign, where do we find lasting hope?

Daniel 7 reveals a vision of God’s eternal kingdom, where the Ancient of Days reigns supreme and where His people find their ultimate hope and security.

Key Verse: “I kept looking until thrones were set up, and the Ancient of Days took His seat; His vesture was like white snow and the hair of His head like pure wool. His throne was ablaze with flames, its wheels were a burning fire.” – Daniel 7:9 (NASB)

Background Context: Daniel 7 is a pivotal chapter in the book of Daniel, shifting from historical narratives to apocalyptic visions that reveal God’s ultimate plan for history. Daniel sees a vision of four great beasts, each representing different kingdoms that will rise and fall. But the vision climaxes with the appearance of the Ancient of Days, God Himself, who judges the beasts and establishes His eternal kingdom. This chapter is filled with rich imagery and profound truths about God’s sovereignty, the fleeting nature of earthly powers, and the hope of God’s unending reign.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Daniel 7

Vision of the Four Beasts

      1In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel saw a dream and visions in his mind as he lay on his bed; then he wrote the dream down and related the following summary of it. 2Daniel said, “I was looking in my vision by night, and behold, the four winds of heaven were stirring up the great sea. 3“And four great beasts were coming up from the sea, different from one another. 4“The first was like a lion and had the wings of an eagle. I kept looking until its wings were plucked, and it was lifted up from the ground and made to stand on two feet like a man; a human mind also was given to it. 5“And behold, another beast, a second one, resembling a bear. And it was raised up on one side, and three ribs were in its mouth between its teeth; and thus they said to it, ‘Arise, devour much meat!’ 6“After this I kept looking, and behold, another one, like a leopard, which had on its back four wings of a bird; the beast also had four heads, and dominion was given to it. 7“After this I kept looking in the night visions, and behold, a fourth beast, dreadful and terrifying and extremely strong; and it had large iron teeth. It devoured and crushed and trampled down the remainder with its feet; and it was different from all the beasts that were before it, and it had ten horns. 8“While I was contemplating the horns, behold, another horn, a little one, came up among them, and three of the first horns were pulled out by the roots before it; and behold, this horn possessed eyes like the eyes of a man and a mouth uttering great boasts.

The Ancient of Days Reigns

9“I kept looking
Until thrones were set up,
And the Ancient of Days took His seat;
His vesture was like white snow
And the hair of His head like pure wool.
His throne was ablaze with flames,
Its wheels were a burning fire.

      10“A river of fire was flowing
And coming out from before Him;
Thousands upon thousands were attending Him,
And myriads upon myriads were standing before Him;
The court sat,
And the books were opened.

11“Then I kept looking because of the sound of the boastful words which the horn was speaking; I kept looking until the beast was slain, and its body was destroyed and given to the burning fire. 12“As for the rest of the beasts, their dominion was taken away, but an extension of life was granted to them for an appointed period of time.

The Son of Man Presented

13“I kept looking in the night visions,
And behold, with the clouds of heaven
One like a Son of Man was coming,
And He came up to the Ancient of Days
And was presented before Him.

      14“And to Him was given dominion,
Glory and a kingdom,
That all the peoples, nations and men of every language
Might serve Him.
His dominion is an everlasting dominion
Which will not pass away;
And His kingdom is one
Which will not be destroyed.

The Vision Interpreted

      15“As for me, Daniel, my spirit was distressed within me, and the visions in my mind kept alarming me. 16“I approached one of those who were standing by and began asking him the exact meaning of all this. So he told me and made known to me the interpretation of these things: 17‘These great beasts, which are four in number, are four kings who will arise from the earth. 18‘But the saints of the Highest One will receive the kingdom and possess the kingdom forever, for all ages to come.’

      19“Then I desired to know the exact meaning of the fourth beast, which was different from all the others, exceedingly dreadful, with its teeth of iron and its claws of bronze, and which devoured, crushed and trampled down the remainder with its feet, 20and the meaning of the ten horns that were on its head and the other horn which came up, and before which three of them fell, namely, that horn which had eyes and a mouth uttering great boasts and which was larger in appearance than its associates. 21“I kept looking, and that horn was waging war with the saints and overpowering them 22until the Ancient of Days came and judgment was passed in favor of the saints of the Highest One, and the time arrived when the saints took possession of the kingdom.

      23“Thus he said: ‘The fourth beast will be a fourth kingdom on the earth, which will be different from all the other kingdoms and will devour the whole earth and tread it down and crush it. 24‘As for the ten horns, out of this kingdom ten kings will arise; and another will arise after them, and he will be different from the previous ones and will subdue three kings. 25‘He will speak out against the Most High and wear down the saints of the Highest One, and he will intend to make alterations in times and in law; and they will be given into his hand for a time, times, and half a time. 26‘But the court will sit for judgment, and his dominion will be taken away, annihilated and destroyed forever. 27‘Then the sovereignty, the dominion and the greatness of all the kingdoms under the whole heaven will be given to the people of the saints of the Highest One; His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all the dominions will serve and obey Him.’

      28“At this point the revelation ended. As for me, Daniel, my thoughts were greatly alarming me and my face grew pale, but I kept the matter to myself.”

Reflection on Daniel 7:

  • The Vision of the Four Beasts: The chapter begins with Daniel’s vision of four great beasts emerging from the sea, each more terrifying than the last (Daniel 7:2-7). These beasts represent the kingdoms of the world, characterized by violence, power, and rebellion against God. They symbolize the temporary and often brutal nature of human empires, which rise in pride and fall in defeat. This reminds us that no earthly power, no matter how strong or enduring it seems, can stand forever.
  • The Ancient of Days: In contrast to the chaos of the beasts, Daniel sees the Ancient of Days take His seat on the throne (Daniel 7:9-10). The Ancient of Days is a majestic figure, representing God’s eternal and unchanging nature. His white garments and hair symbolize purity and holiness, while His fiery throne represents judgment and authority. This image of God seated on the throne reassures us that, despite the tumult of earthly kingdoms, God remains in control, sovereign over all history.
  • The Son of Man: As the vision continues, Daniel sees “one like a son of man” coming with the clouds of heaven, who is given authority, glory, and an everlasting dominion (Daniel 7:13-14). This “Son of Man” is a messianic figure, later revealed as Jesus Christ, who will reign forever in God’s eternal kingdom. His kingdom will never be destroyed, offering hope to all who trust in Him. This reminds us that Jesus is not only a suffering servant but also a victorious king who will establish God’s perfect rule on earth.
  • The Judgment of the Beasts: The vision culminates in the judgment of the fourth beast, which is destroyed and its power taken away (Daniel 7:11-12). The other beasts lose their dominion, but their lives are prolonged for a time. This judgment emphasizes that while earthly powers may seem dominant, their time is limited, and they will ultimately be held accountable before God.
  • The Saints’ Inheritance: The vision ends with the saints of the Most High receiving the kingdom and possessing it forever (Daniel 7:18, 27). This is a promise to God’s people that, despite persecution and suffering, they will share in Christ’s eternal reign. The hope of inheriting God’s kingdom gives us strength to endure trials and remain faithful, knowing that our ultimate victory is secure in Christ.

Summary Key Points:

  • The Temporary Nature of Earthly Powers: The vision of the four beasts reminds us that earthly kingdoms and powers are temporary, no matter how mighty they seem.
  • God’s Sovereignty: The Ancient of Days, seated on His throne, symbolizes God’s eternal reign and sovereign control over all history.
  • The Coming of the Son of Man: The “Son of Man” is a messianic figure, later revealed as Jesus, who will establish an everlasting kingdom where righteousness and justice prevail.
  • Judgment and Justice: The beasts are judged, showing that all earthly powers will ultimately be held accountable before God.
  • The Saints’ Inheritance: God’s people are promised a share in His eternal kingdom, giving us hope and strength to persevere through trials.

Application: In the midst of life’s uncertainties, where do you place your hope? Reflect on the temporary nature of earthly powers and the eternal reign of God. Are there areas in your life where you need to trust more fully in God’s sovereignty? Consider how the promise of God’s eternal kingdom can give you strength and hope to endure challenges and remain faithful. Let the vision of the Ancient of Days and the coming of the Son of Man inspire you to live with a kingdom perspective, knowing that God’s reign is eternal and unshakable.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the vision of Your eternal kingdom revealed in Daniel 7. Help us to trust in Your sovereignty, even when the world around us seems chaotic and uncertain. Strengthen our faith in the Son of Man, Jesus Christ, who will establish a kingdom that will never end. May this hope sustain us through trials and give us courage to stand firm in our faith. We look forward to the day when Your kingdom is fully established and we share in its glory forever. 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.

Eternal, Repenting from Sin, Salvation

Eternal Consequences: A Call to Listen and Respond (Luke 16:19-31)

Have you ever considered how the choices you make in this life will echo into eternity?

In Luke 16:19-31, Jesus tells the story of the rich man and Lazarus, a parable that powerfully illustrates the eternal consequences of how we live, who we trust, and what we value.

Key Verse: “But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.’” – Luke 16:29 (ESV)

Background Context: This passage contrasts the lives and eternal fates of two men: a rich man who lived in luxury and a poor man named Lazarus who suffered greatly. After they die, their roles are reversed in the afterlife—Lazarus is comforted in Abraham’s bosom (a place of peace and rest), while the rich man is tormented in Hades. The parable challenges us to reflect on how we respond to God’s Word and live out our faith, knowing that our choices have eternal implications.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 16:19-31

The Rich Man and Lazarus

      19“Now there was a rich man, and he habitually dressed in purple and fine linen, joyously living in splendor every day. 20“And a poor man named Lazarus was laid at his gate, covered with sores, 21and longing to be fed with the crumbs which were falling from the rich man’s table; besides, even the dogs were coming and licking his sores. 22“Now the poor man died and was carried away by the angels to Abraham’s bosom; and the rich man also died and was buried. 23“In Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and saw Abraham far away and Lazarus in his bosom. 24“And he cried out and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus so that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue, for I am in agony in this flame.’ 25“But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that during your life you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus bad things; but now he is being comforted here, and you are in agony. 26‘And besides all this, between us and you there is a great chasm fixed, so that those who wish to come over from here to you will not be able, and that none may cross over from there to us.’ 27“And he said, ‘Then I beg you, father, that you send him to my father’s house— 28for I have five brothers—in order that he may warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’ 29“But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.’ 30“But he said, ‘No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent!’ 31“But he said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.’”

Reflection on Luke 16:19-31:

  • The Rich Man and Lazarus: The rich man lived a life of opulence, oblivious to the suffering of Lazarus, who longed for even the crumbs from the rich man’s table (Luke 16:19-21). The stark contrast between their lives highlights the danger of self-centered living—being consumed with personal comfort while ignoring the needs of others. Though the rich man’s wealth gave him temporary joy, his neglect of God’s call to care for the poor reveals a deeper spiritual poverty.
  • The Great Reversal in Eternity: When both men die, Lazarus is carried by angels to Abraham’s bosom, a place of comfort, while the rich man finds himself in torment (Luke 16:22-23). This reversal underscores the biblical truth that earthly wealth and status do not determine our eternal fate. What matters is how we respond to God’s Word and live our lives according to His will. Lazarus, despite his earthly suffering, receives eternal comfort, while the rich man’s indifference leads to eternal agony.
  • A Fixed Chasm: Abraham explains that there is a great chasm between the place of comfort and the place of torment, one that cannot be crossed after death (Luke 16:26). This reminds us of the finality of death—once we leave this life, our eternal destiny is sealed. There is no crossing over, no second chances. It is a sobering reminder to live with eternity in view.
  • The Rich Man’s Plea: The rich man, realizing his eternal fate, pleads for Lazarus to be sent to warn his brothers so that they do not suffer the same torment (Luke 16:27-28). But Abraham responds that they already have “Moses and the Prophets”—God’s Word to guide them (Luke 16:29). This shows that God’s revelation is sufficient. We are responsible for responding to His Word, and the issue is not a lack of knowledge but a lack of willingness to listen and obey.
  • The Power of God’s Word: The rich man insists that a miraculous sign—someone rising from the dead—would cause his brothers to repent (Luke 16:30). But Abraham’s final words are striking: “If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead” (Luke 16:31). This points to the hardness of heart that can blind people to the truth, even in the face of miracles. The problem is not with the message but with our willingness to hear and respond to it.

Summary Key Points:

  • Eternal Consequences: Our choices in this life—how we treat others, how we respond to God’s Word—have eternal consequences.
  • Earthly Wealth vs. Eternal Comfort: Earthly riches are fleeting, and they do not determine our eternal destiny. It is our faithfulness to God and His Word that matters.
  • The Finality of Death: After death, our eternal fate is fixed. There are no second chances, so we must live with eternity in mind now.
  • The Sufficiency of God’s Word: God has given us everything we need in His Word to guide us to eternal life. The issue is not a lack of revelation but a lack of response.
  • The Call to Repentance: We are called to heed God’s Word and repent now, rather than waiting for a miraculous sign. The time to turn to God is today.

Application: Consider how you are responding to God’s Word today. Are you living with eternity in view, or are you distracted by the temporary comforts of this world? Reflect on how you treat those in need around you—are you showing compassion and generosity, or are you living for yourself? Take time to examine your heart and ask God to soften any areas of resistance to His Word. Don’t wait for a miraculous sign—heed the call to repent and live faithfully today.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the truth of Your Word and the reminder that our lives have eternal consequences. Help us to live with eternity in view, responding to Your call with humility, faith, and obedience. Open our hearts to see the needs of those around us, and teach us to live selflessly, just as Christ did. Give us the courage to heed Your Word and turn to You with our whole hearts, knowing that today is the day of salvation. 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 Powerful / King of All, Eternal, Faithful, Holy, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Psalms

The Lord Reigns: Resting in God’s Eternal Power (Psalm 93)

Where do you turn when life feels uncertain and the world around you seems unstable?

Psalm 93 calls us to rest in the truth that the Lord reigns, sovereign over all creation, and nothing can shake His eternal power.

Key Verse: “The Lord reigns; He is robed in majesty; the Lord is robed; He has put on strength as His belt. Yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved.” – Psalm 93:1 (ESV)

Background Context: Psalm 93 is a short but powerful declaration of God’s kingship and authority over all creation. It praises God as the eternal ruler, whose throne was established long before the world began and whose reign will never end. This psalm reminds us that, despite the chaotic and ever-changing nature of the world, God’s rule is unshakable and everlasting.

Psalm 93

The Majesty of the LORD.

1The LORD reigns, He is clothed with majesty;
The LORD has clothed and girded Himself with strength;
Indeed, the world is firmly established, it will not be moved.

      2Your throne is established from of old;
You are from everlasting.

      3The floods have lifted up, O LORD,
The floods have lifted up their voice,
The floods lift up their pounding waves.

      4More than the sounds of many waters,
Than the mighty breakers of the sea,
The LORD on high is mighty.

      5Your testimonies are fully confirmed;
Holiness befits Your house,
O LORD, forevermore.

Reflection on Psalm 93:

  • The Lord Reigns in Majesty: The psalm begins with a bold declaration: “The Lord reigns!” (Psalm 93:1). God is not a distant or passive ruler but one who is actively reigning, clothed in majesty and strength. His authority is absolute, and He is exalted above all creation. This imagery of God being robed in majesty and strength emphasizes His sovereignty and the security that comes from knowing He is in control.
  • The Stability of God’s Creation: The psalmist affirms that the world is established by God and “shall never be moved” (Psalm 93:1). This speaks to the stability and order that God has built into His creation. While the earth may seem fragile at times, and the events of the world may feel chaotic, God’s sustaining power ensures that His creation remains firm. We can trust that God’s order will prevail, even when life feels uncertain.
  • God’s Eternal Throne: Verse 2 emphasizes that God’s throne was established long ago and will last forever: “Your throne is established from of old; You are from everlasting” (Psalm 93:2). Unlike human rulers, whose reigns are temporary, God’s reign is eternal. His authority has no beginning or end, and nothing can dethrone Him. This gives us confidence that, no matter what happens in the world, God’s sovereign rule remains unchallenged.
  • The Might of God Over the Waters: The psalmist uses the image of mighty waters to symbolize the forces of chaos and opposition (Psalm 93:3-4). In ancient times, the sea was often seen as a symbol of chaos and danger, but here, the psalmist reminds us that even the most powerful and turbulent forces are under God’s control. “Mightier than the thunders of many waters, mightier than the waves of the sea, the Lord on high is mighty!” (Psalm 93:4). God’s power is greater than any force of nature or chaos we face.
  • God’s Holiness and Faithfulness: The psalm concludes with a focus on God’s holiness and faithfulness: “Your decrees are very trustworthy; holiness befits Your house, O Lord, forevermore” (Psalm 93:5). God’s commands and promises are reliable, and His holiness pervades all that He is and does. We are reminded that God’s rule is not only powerful but also righteous and good. His faithfulness endures forever, and we can trust Him completely.

Summary Key Points:

  • God’s Sovereign Reign: God reigns with majesty and strength over all creation, and His rule is unshakable and eternal.
  • The Stability of Creation: The world is established by God and sustained by His power, giving us confidence in His control over the chaos of life.
  • God’s Eternal Throne: Unlike earthly rulers, God’s reign has no beginning or end, and nothing can dethrone Him.
  • God’s Might Over Chaos: Even the forces of chaos and opposition are under God’s authority, and He is mightier than any challenge we face.
  • Holiness and Trustworthiness: God’s decrees are trustworthy, and His holiness defines His rule, ensuring that He is both powerful and good.

Application: Reflect on areas in your life where you may feel uncertain, overwhelmed, or fearful. How does the truth of God’s reign and sovereignty impact those situations? Take comfort in knowing that God’s power is greater than any chaos or challenge you may face. Trust in His holiness and faithfulness, knowing that He is both mighty and good. Rest in the assurance that God’s rule is eternal, and nothing can shake His authority.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we praise You for Your majesty, strength, and sovereignty. Thank You for reigning over all creation with power and goodness. Help us to trust in Your authority and to rest in the assurance that Your rule is eternal and unshakable. When life feels chaotic, remind us that You are mightier than the waters and that You are in control. May we live with confidence and peace, knowing that You reign forever. 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.

Eternal, Justice / Judgment, Learning To Pray Effectively, Psalms, Purposeful / Intentional

The Eternal God: Finding Refuge in His Timelessness (Psalm 90)

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the brevity and challenges of life?

Psalm 90 invites us to find refuge and meaning in the eternal nature of God.

Key Verse: “Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.” – Psalm 90:1-2 (NKJV)

Background Context: Psalm 90 is a prayer of Moses, reflecting on the eternal nature of God compared to the fleeting nature of human life. It contrasts God’s timelessness with our temporal existence, emphasizing the need for wisdom, repentance, and reliance on God’s mercy. This psalm calls us to find our security and purpose in God, who transcends time and provides everlasting refuge.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 90

God’s Eternity and Man’s Transitoriness.

A Prayer of Moses, the man of God.

1Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations.

2Before the mountains were born
Or You gave birth to the earth and the world,
Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.

3You turn man back into dust
And say, “Return, O children of men.”

4For a thousand years in Your sight
Are like yesterday when it passes by,
Or as a watch in the night.

5You have swept them away like a flood, they fall asleep;
In the morning they are like grass which sprouts anew.

6In the morning it flourishes and sprouts anew;
Toward evening it fades and withers away.

7For we have been consumed by Your anger
And by Your wrath we have been dismayed.

8You have placed our iniquities before You,
Our secret sins in the light of Your presence.

9For all our days have declined in Your fury;
We have finished our years like a sigh.

10As for the days of our life, they contain seventy years,
Or if due to strength, eighty years,
Yet their pride is but labor and sorrow;
For soon it is gone and we fly away.

11Who understands the power of Your anger
And Your fury, according to the fear that is due You?

12So teach us to number our days,
That we may present to You a heart of wisdom.

13Do return, O LORD; how long will it be?
And be sorry for Your servants.

14O satisfy us in the morning with Your lovingkindness,
That we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.

15Make us glad according to the days You have afflicted us,
And the years we have seen evil.

16Let Your work appear to Your servants
And Your majesty to their children.

17Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us;
And confirm for us the work of our hands;
Yes, confirm the work of our hands.

Reflection on Psalm 90:

  • God’s Eternal Nature: The psalm begins by affirming that God has been a refuge for His people throughout all generations, existing before the creation of the world (Psalm 90:1-2). This emphasizes God’s unchanging and eternal nature, providing a foundation of stability and security.
  • Human Frailty: In contrast, Moses reflects on the brevity and fragility of human life, comparing it to a dream or grass that flourishes in the morning but withers by evening (Psalm 90:3-6). This highlights our dependence on God and the transitory nature of our earthly existence.
  • God’s Righteous Judgment: The psalm acknowledges God’s righteous judgment and the consequences of human sin, recognizing that our secret sins are exposed in His light (Psalm 90:7-8). This calls us to humility and repentance.
  • The Brevity of Life: Moses laments the short span of human life, typically seventy or eighty years, filled with toil and trouble (Psalm 90:9-10). This underscores the importance of living wisely and purposefully.
  • A Prayer for Wisdom and Mercy: Moses prays for God to teach us to number our days, seeking wisdom to live rightly (Psalm 90:12). He also asks for God’s compassion, satisfaction, and favor to fill our lives with meaning and joy (Psalm 90:13-17).

Summary Key Points:

  • God’s Eternal Refuge: God is our everlasting refuge, providing stability and security through all generations.
  • Human Frailty: Our lives are brief and fragile, emphasizing our need for dependence on God.
  • Righteous Judgment: God’s righteous judgment calls us to humility, repentance, and a recognition of our sins.
  • Living Wisely: Understanding the brevity of life, we are called to seek wisdom and live purposefully.
  • Seeking God’s Mercy: We should pray for God’s mercy, satisfaction, and favor to fill our lives with meaning and joy.

Application: Let us find our refuge in God’s eternal nature, recognizing that He is our stable foundation through all of life’s changes. May we acknowledge our human frailty and seek His wisdom to live purposefully. Let us embrace humility and repentance, trusting in God’s righteous judgment and seeking His mercy and favor to bring meaning and joy to our lives.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for being our eternal refuge, unchanged through all generations. Teach us to recognize the brevity of our lives and to seek Your wisdom in living purposefully. Help us to humbly repent of our sins and to trust in Your righteous judgment. Fill our days with Your mercy, satisfaction, and favor, bringing meaning and joy to our lives. 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.

Eternal, Faith / Trusting God, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways

Trust God’s Eternal Plan, Even When You Don’t Understand (Psalm 73)

Have you ever felt disheartened by the apparent success of the wicked, wondering why they seem to prosper while the righteous suffer?

In Psalm 73, Asaph grapples with these very questions, offering profound insights into the nature of God’s sovereignty and the eternal perspective we must cultivate.

Reconnect: In Psalm 73, Asaph shares his journey from doubt to faith, as he wrestles with the apparent prosperity of the wicked and the struggles of the righteous. Through divine revelation, he gains a deeper understanding of God’s sovereignty and the eternal destiny that awaits both the wicked and the righteous.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 73

The End of the Wicked Contrasted with That of the Righteous.

A Psalm of Asaph.

1Surely God is good to Israel,
To those who are pure in heart!

      2But as for me, my feet came close to stumbling,
My steps had almost slipped.

      3For I was envious of the arrogant
As I saw the prosperity of the wicked.

      4For there are no pains in their death,
And their body is fat.

      5They are not in trouble as other men,
Nor are they plagued like mankind.

      6Therefore pride is their necklace;
The garment of violence covers them.

      7Their eye bulges from fatness;
The imaginations of their heart run riot.

      8They mock and wickedly speak of oppression;
They speak from on high.

      9They have set their mouth against the heavens,
And their tongue parades through the earth.

      10Therefore his people return to this place,
And waters of abundance are drunk by them.

      11They say, “How does God know?
And is there knowledge with the Most High?”

      12Behold, these are the wicked;
And always at ease, they have increased in wealth.

      13Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure
And washed my hands in innocence;

      14For I have been stricken all day long
And chastened every morning.

      15If I had said, “I will speak thus,”
Behold, I would have betrayed the generation of Your children.

      16When I pondered to understand this,
It was troublesome in my sight

      17Until I came into the sanctuary of God;
Then I perceived their end.

      18Surely You set them in slippery places;
You cast them down to destruction.

      19How they are destroyed in a moment!
They are utterly swept away by sudden terrors!

      20Like a dream when one awakes,
O Lord, when aroused, You will despise their form.

      21When my heart was embittered
And I was pierced within,

      22Then I was senseless and ignorant;
I was like a beast before You.

      23Nevertheless I am continually with You;
You have taken hold of my right hand.

      24With Your counsel You will guide me,
And afterward receive me to glory.

      25Whom have I in heaven but You?
And besides You, I desire nothing on earth.

      26My flesh and my heart may fail,
But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

      27For, behold, those who are far from You will perish;
You have destroyed all those who are unfaithful to You.

      28But as for me, the nearness of God is my good;
I have made the Lord GOD my refuge,
That I may tell of all Your works.

Summary Key Points:

  • Asaph’s Revelation: Through divine insight, Asaph gains a deeper understanding of the fate awaiting the wicked and the righteous. He realizes that the seeming prosperity of the wicked is fleeting, while the righteous are ultimately blessed by God.
  • Eternal Perspective: Asaph’s journey underscores the importance of viewing life’s trials and triumphs through an eternal lens. While worldly success may elude the righteous in the short term, their ultimate reward lies in their relationship with God.
  • Trusting God’s Sovereignty: Asaph learns to trust in God’s sovereignty, recognizing that His plans extend beyond the temporary circumstances of this world. He finds peace in surrendering his doubts and fears to God’s unfailing wisdom.

Call to Action: Let us heed the lessons of Psalm 73 by:

  • Seeking Eternal Perspective: Instead of being consumed by envy or doubt, let us seek to view our lives and circumstances through the lens of eternity. Trusting in God’s promises, may we find solace in His enduring faithfulness.
  • Cultivating Trust: Like Asaph, let us cultivate a deeper trust in God’s sovereignty, even in the face of life’s uncertainties. Through prayer and meditation on His Word, may we surrender our fears and anxieties, trusting in His unwavering guidance.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, grant us the wisdom to see beyond the temporary trials of this world and to trust in Your eternal promises. Help us cultivate a heart of gratitude and trust, knowing that Your plans for us are good. May we find peace in Your presence and strength in Your unfailing love. 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.

Eternal, Faith / Trusting God, Heaven and Hell, Love

Temporal and Eternal

We are eternal beings. We are not simply here for a few decades and then gone to some imaginary abyss. Yahweh created us in His image and we have eternity to keep in mind. Though I understand this well academically, I find it hard to keep it in my focus of every day life emotionally. What a concept! “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one be recompensed for [our] deeds in the body, according to what [we] have done, whether good or bad.” (2 Corinthians 5:10). There is more to pleasing God than simply acknowledging or even submitting to Jesus. We are to live as if He is Lord of our life and seek to please Him with our lives. He wants true submission, that of actions and attitudes, and not just submission in words.

When we truly become followers and believers of Christ, we no longer seek to obey and please Him out of a sense of duty or necessity (e.g. to avoid hell), but rather out of appreciation and love. We become new creations in Christ and our lives should show it. We are His ambassadors to the lost in this world.

2 Corinthians 5

The Temporal and Eternal

     1For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2For indeed in this house we groan, longing to be clothed with our dwelling from heaven, 3inasmuch as we, having put it on, will not be found naked. 4For indeed while we are in this tent, we groan, being burdened, because we do not want to be unclothed but to be clothed, so that what is mortal will be swallowed up by life. 5Now He who prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave to us the Spirit as a pledge.

      6Therefore, being always of good courage, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord— 7for we walk by faith, not by sight— 8we are of good courage, I say, and prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord. 9Therefore we also have as our ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him. 10For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.

      11Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade men, but we are made manifest to God; and I hope that we are made manifest also in your consciences. 12We are not again commending ourselves to you but are giving you an occasion to be proud of us, so that you will have an answer for those who take pride in appearance and not in heart. 13For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you. 14For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; 15and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf.

      16Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer. 17Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. 18Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, 19namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation.

      20Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

The only righteousness we can attain is that which is freely offered through the death of Christ and the infilling of the Holy Spirit. As Spirit-filled believers we are to act as ambassadors for the Lord in this life, living for Him rather than ourselves. However, just because we need not (and can not) “earn our way to heaven” through good works, does not mean that we are not held accountable for our life choices. We will all face the judgment seat of Christ when we die.

What a real challenge to live with eternity in mind, focused on the things of God rather than normal every day desires and distractions! I pray for His help for my family and me to pursue this wholeheartedly and encourage you to do the same.

Shalom. May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. Devotion by John in service to Christ

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 Powerful / King of All, Creative, Eternal, Holy, Justice / Judgment, Loving / Kind, Merciful, Protector / Deliverer, Provider, Strong in Our Weakness, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Reflect on the Greatness of Our God

As you read through this today, reflect on the greatness of our God. This is not a time for speed reading or hurrying. This is a time for slowly digesting the word and what it means in our lives.

Isaiah 40

The Greatness of God

1“Comfort, O comfort My people,” says your God.

      2“Speak kindly to Jerusalem;
And call out to her, that her warfare has ended,
That her iniquity has been removed,
That she has received of the LORD’S hand
Double for all her sins.”

      3A voice is calling,
“Clear the way for the LORD in the wilderness;
Make smooth in the desert a highway for our God.

      4“Let every valley be lifted up,
And every mountain and hill be made low;
And let the rough ground become a plain,
And the rugged terrain a broad valley;

      5Then the glory of the LORD will be revealed,
And all flesh will see it together;
For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.”

      6A voice says, “Call out.”
Then he answered, “What shall I call out?”
All flesh is grass, and all its loveliness is like the flower of the field.

      7The grass withers, the flower fades,
When the breath of the LORD blows upon it;
Surely the people are grass.

      8The grass withers, the flower fades,
But the word of our God stands forever.

      9Get yourself up on a high mountain,
O Zion, bearer of good news,
Lift up your voice mightily,
O Jerusalem, bearer of good news;
Lift it up, do not fear.
Say to the cities of Judah,
“Here is your God!”

      10Behold, the Lord GOD will come with might,
With His arm ruling for Him.
Behold, His reward is with Him
And His recompense before Him.

      11Like a shepherd He will tend His flock,
In His arm He will gather the lambs
And carry them in His bosom;
He will gently lead the nursing ewes.

      12Who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand,
And marked off the heavens by the span,
And calculated the dust of the earth by the measure,
And weighed the mountains in a balance
And the hills in a pair of scales?

      13Who has directed the Spirit of the LORD,
Or as His counselor has informed Him?

      14With whom did He consult and who gave Him understanding?
And who taught Him in the path of justice and taught Him knowledge
And informed Him of the way of understanding?

      15Behold, the nations are like a drop from a bucket,
And are regarded as a speck of dust on the scales;
Behold, He lifts up the islands like fine dust.

      16Even Lebanon is not enough to burn,
Nor its beasts enough for a burnt offering.

      17All the nations are as nothing before Him,
They are regarded by Him as less than nothing and meaningless.

      18To whom then will you liken God?
Or what likeness will you compare with Him?

      19As for the idol, a craftsman casts it,
A goldsmith plates it with gold,
And a silversmith fashions chains of silver.

      20He who is too impoverished for such an offering
Selects a tree that does not rot;
He seeks out for himself a skillful craftsman
To prepare an idol that will not totter.

      21Do you not know? Have you not heard?
Has it not been declared to you from the beginning?
Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth?

      22It is He who sits above the circle of the earth,
And its inhabitants are like grasshoppers,
Who stretches out the heavens like a curtain
And spreads them out like a tent to dwell in.

      23He it is who reduces rulers to nothing,
Who makes the judges of the earth meaningless.

      24Scarcely have they been planted,
Scarcely have they been sown,
Scarcely has their stock taken root in the earth,
But He merely blows on them, and they wither,
And the storm carries them away like stubble.

      25“To whom then will you liken Me
That I would be his equal?” says the Holy One.

      26Lift up your eyes on high
And see who has created these stars,
The One who leads forth their host by number,
He calls them all by name;
Because of the greatness of His might and the strength of His power,
Not one of them is missing.

      27Why do you say, O Jacob, and assert, O Israel,
“My way is hidden from the LORD,
And the justice due me escapes the notice of my God”?

      28Do you not know? Have you not heard?
The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth
Does not become weary or tired.
His understanding is inscrutable.

      29He gives strength to the weary,
And to him who lacks might He increases power.

      30Though youths grow weary and tired,
And vigorous young men stumble badly,

      31Yet those who wait for the LORD
Will gain new strength;
They will mount up with wings like eagles,
They will run and not get tired,
They will walk and not become weary.

Take a few more minutes and ask the Holy Spirit to really bring forth the rich message in this scripture. Meditate for a few minutes on the greatness of our God. What impact should this have on how you live your life?

Shalom. May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. Devotion by John in service to Christ

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.