Category Archives: Character of God

Discerning / Judging, Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Obeying God, Submitted / Servant, Teachable, Traditions / Holidays, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

If God Says Something is Bad, Can We Make It Good?

There can easily be constant pressure to accept the traditions and ways of men or the culture around us. In many cases, it may be what we grew up with. It could be filled with great family memories from childhood and generations of family tradition. Everyone around us may be doing something a certain way and this helps us fit in with other Christians. Often, even if the origins of the tradition are pagan, people have framed up new stories about how the traditions of men really honor God. What should we do? Can we truly take something that God said was bad and make it good?

Christmas, and many holiday traditions common to Christians today, serve as powerful examples. There are many traditions that are of pagan origin. Many don’t know this and don’t even think to ask or test their traditions. Many more do know the traditions are of pagan origin, but rather convince themselves that we can turn what God said was bad into something good. Is this true? What does God say in the Bible?

Consider His people as they left Egypt. Yahweh delivered them from slavery through many mighty miracles. There were ten plagues, parting of the Red Sea, defeat of Pharaoh’s army, God appearing as fire and smoke to lead them, manna and water miraculously to meet their needs in the dessert. Surely, we would think that generation could never turn from the ways of God, but they did. They allowed themselves to revert to influences from the Egyptian culture in which they had lived for generations.

Exodus 32:1-10

The Golden Calf

      1Now when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down from the mountain, the people assembled about Aaron and said to him, “Come, make us a god who will go before us; as for this Moses, the man who brought us up from the land of Egypt, we do not know what has become of him.” 2Aaron said to them, “Tear off the gold rings which are in the ears of your wives, your sons, and your daughters, and bring them to me.” 3Then all the people tore off the gold rings which were in their ears and brought them to Aaron. 4He took this from their hand, and fashioned it with a graving tool and made it into a molten calf; and they said, “This is your god, O Israel, who brought you up from the land of Egypt.” 5Now when Aaron saw this, he built an altar before it; and Aaron made a proclamation and said, “Tomorrow shall be a feast to the LORD.” 6So the next day they rose early and offered burnt offerings, and brought peace offerings; and the people sat down to eat and to drink, and rose up to play.

      7Then the LORD spoke to Moses, “Go down at once, for your people, whom you brought up from the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves. 8“They have quickly turned aside from the way which I commanded them. They have made for themselves a molten calf, and have worshiped it and have sacrificed to it and said, ‘This is your god, O Israel, who brought you up from the land of Egypt!’” 9The LORD said to Moses, “I have seen this people, and behold, they are an obstinate people. 10“Now then let Me alone, that My anger may burn against them and that I may destroy them; and I will make of you a great nation.”

I think we can all see clearly that Yahweh was not pleased with His people for making this idol and worshiping it. He was going to destroy them and start over. Let us consider carefully what happened. If we read to quickly, we may conclude, as many have, that the Israelites were worshiping an idol of a false god and that is why Yahweh was upset… but this is not the case.

Look closer. Indeed, they had created an idol and began to worship it, but in fact they were using the idol to represent Yahweh Himself. Consider the following verses:

“This is your god, O Israel, who brought you up from the land of Egypt.” 5Now when Aaron saw this, he built an altar before it; and Aaron made a proclamation and said, “Tomorrow shall be a feast to the LORD.”

In fact, the people were worshiping Yahweh, and He was very upset! Why? Yahweh does not want His people to worship Him in the way that the pagans worship their false gods. He wants us to worship Him in the way He tells us.

Deuteronomy 12:30-32

30beware that you are not ensnared to follow them, after they are destroyed before you, and that you do not inquire after their gods, saying, ‘How do these nations serve their gods, that I also may do likewise?’ 31“You shall not behave thus toward the LORD your God, for every abominable act which the LORD hates they have done for their gods; for they even burn their sons and daughters in the fire to their gods.

      32“Whatever I command you, you shall be careful to do; you shall not add to nor take away from it.

The Israelites may have been worshipping Yahweh, but they were doing so in like manner to how the Egyptians worshipped their false gods by making idols.

While this may seem like it does not apply today, it certainly does! Yahweh has not changed His opinion on what is good and what is bad. He still does not want us to worship Him with idols or with any of the manners or traditions with which the pagans worship false gods. If we take the time to study our common Christmas and Easter traditions (and other traditions as well), we will certainly find the history of many of these traditions are derived not from God’s word, but from pagan worship practices. Christians have created new meanings for many of these traditions, but they still are derived from pagan worship. Yahweh is not pleased, even if we say it is Him whom we are worshipping.

Do not repeat the error of the Israelites, which drew great anger from Yahweh. Instead, learn the history and true origin of the traditions you practice. Reject the ones that are derived from pagan worship. Instead, study and learn the practices and worship that Yahweh instructs us in His word. There is so much to learn!

I encourage you to invest time to get to know Yahweh. If He is Lord (and He certainly is!), then we should take time to learn His ways and reject the ways of the pagan worship… even if done in Yahweh’s name. Do not accept something just because it is a family or cultural “tradition”. Test and explore to understand the true origin and whether or not it may be offensive to our Lord. Do not fool yourself that you can take what is bad in His eyes and make it good by creating new Christian stories around old pagan traditions. Choose the Lord’s ways over even dear traditions that may be emotionally difficult to walk away from. Do not be like Lot’s wife who looked back at Sodom while leaving, but rather leave behind the past things without looking back on them.

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

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.

Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Faith / Trusting God, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God

Fixing Our Eyes on Yeshua, the Faithful Son (Hebrews 3:1-11)

What does it mean to fix your thoughts on Yeshua, the faithful Son over God’s house?

Hebrews 3:1-11 calls us to consider Yeshua’s faithfulness and supremacy, comparing Him to Moses, a revered servant of God. It also warns us against hardening our hearts as Israel did in the wilderness, urging us to trust and obey the One who leads us to God’s rest.

Key Verse:
“Fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest.” – Hebrews 3:1 (NIV)

Background Context:
In Hebrews 3:1-11, the author encourages believers to fix their eyes on Yeshua, recognizing Him as greater than Moses. While Moses was faithful as a servant in God’s house, Yeshua is the Son over God’s house. This passage draws on the history of Israel’s rebellion in the wilderness, highlighting the consequences of a hardened heart and calling us to faithful obedience.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Hebrews 3:1-11

Jesus Our High Priest

       1Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the Apostle and High Priest of our confession; 2He was faithful to Him who appointed Him, as Moses also was in all His house. 3For He has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses, by just so much as the builder of the house has more honor than the house. 4For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God. 5Now Moses was faithful in all His house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken later; 6but Christ was faithful as a Son over His house—whose house we are, if we hold fast our confidence and the boast of our hope firm until the end.

      7Therefore, just as the Holy Spirit says,
“TODAY IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE,

      8DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS AS WHEN THEY PROVOKED ME,
AS IN THE DAY OF TRIAL IN THE WILDERNESS,

      9WHERE YOUR FATHERS TRIED Me BY TESTING Me,
AND SAW MY WORKS FOR FORTY YEARS.

      10“THEREFORE I WAS ANGRY WITH THIS GENERATION,
AND SAID, ‘THEY ALWAYS GO ASTRAY IN THEIR HEART,
AND THEY DID NOT KNOW MY WAYS’;

      11AS I SWORE IN MY WRATH,
‘THEY SHALL NOT ENTER MY REST.’”

Reflection on Hebrews 3:1-11:

  • Consider Yeshua, the Faithful Son:
    The passage begins by urging believers to fix their thoughts on Yeshua, our apostle and high priest (Hebrews 3:1). Yeshua is the ultimate example of faithfulness, fulfilling God’s plan perfectly as the Son over God’s house. Are you focusing on Yeshua as your guide and example in daily life? Reflect on His faithfulness and let it inspire your own.
  • Yeshua’s Supremacy Over Moses:
    Moses was faithful as a servant in God’s house, but Yeshua is faithful as the Son over God’s house (Hebrews 3:5-6). This distinction highlights Yeshua’s divine authority and role as Savior. Are you honoring Yeshua as the head of your life? Submit to His authority and trust in His leadership.
  • The Warning Against Hardening Our Hearts:
    Verses 7-11 reference Psalm 95, recounting Israel’s rebellion in the wilderness. Despite witnessing God’s miracles, they hardened their hearts and tested Him, forfeiting the rest He had promised. Are there areas in your life where unbelief or disobedience is hardening your heart? Confess these to God and seek His help to remain faithful.
  • The Call to Trust and Obey:
    The warning to avoid Israel’s mistakes reminds us of the importance of trusting and obeying God. Faith is not merely intellectual but is demonstrated through obedience and perseverance. Are you living out your faith in trust and obedience? Ask God to guide you and strengthen your resolve to follow Him.

Summary Key Points:

  • Fix Your Thoughts on Yeshua: He is our apostle, high priest, and faithful example.
  • Yeshua Is Greater Than Moses: As the Son over God’s house, He is worthy of our trust and submission.
  • Beware of Hardening Your Heart: Unbelief and disobedience lead to separation from God’s promises.
  • Trust and Obey: Genuine faith is reflected in perseverance and obedience to God’s Word.

Application:
Examine your heart for areas where unbelief or disobedience may be hardening it against God’s truth. Spend time in prayer and scripture, fixing your thoughts on Yeshua and seeking His guidance. Reflect on His faithfulness as your example and submit to His leadership in every aspect of your life.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Yeshua as our apostle and high priest. Help us to fix our thoughts on Him and follow His perfect example of faithfulness. Guard our hearts against unbelief and disobedience, and teach us to trust and obey You fully. Strengthen us to live as part of Your house, bringing glory to Your name. In Yeshua’s 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.

Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Faith / Trusting God, Justice / Judgment, Money / Finances / Wealth, Repenting from Sin, Righteous, Worldliness

The Danger of Complacency and False Security (Amos 6)

What happens when we grow complacent in comfort and ignore God’s call to righteousness?

Amos 6 delivers a sobering warning to Israel about the dangers of pride, complacency, and misplaced trust. It calls God’s people to examine their lives and align their hearts and actions with His standards.

Key Verse:
“Woe to you who are complacent in Zion, and to you who feel secure on Mount Samaria.” – Amos 6:1 (NIV)

Background Context:
Amos 6 continues the prophet’s warnings to Israel, focusing on the nation’s complacency and false sense of security. Despite their wealth and apparent success, Israel had abandoned justice, righteousness, and humility before God. Their prosperity blinded them to the impending judgment, and Amos calls them to recognize their sins and turn back to the Lord.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Amos 6

“Those at Ease in Zion”

1Woe to those who are at ease in Zion
And to those who feel secure in the mountain of Samaria,
The distinguished men of the foremost of nations,
To whom the house of Israel comes.

      2Go over to Calneh and look,
And go from there to Hamath the great,
Then go down to Gath of the Philistines.
Are they better than these kingdoms,
Or is their territory greater than yours?

      3Do you put off the day of calamity,
And would you bring near the seat of violence?

      4Those who recline on beds of ivory
And sprawl on their couches,
And eat lambs from the flock
And calves from the midst of the stall,

      5Who improvise to the sound of the harp,
And like David have composed songs for themselves,

      6Who drink wine from sacrificial bowls
While they anoint themselves with the finest of oils,
Yet they have not grieved over the ruin of Joseph.

      7Therefore, they will now go into exile at the head of the exiles,
And the sprawlers’ banqueting will pass away.

      8The Lord GOD has sworn by Himself, the LORD God of hosts has declared:
“I loathe the arrogance of Jacob,
And detest his citadels;
Therefore I will deliver up the city and all it contains.”

9And it will be, if ten men are left in one house, they will die. 10Then one’s uncle, or his undertaker, will lift him up to carry out his bones from the house, and he will say to the one who is in the innermost part of the house, “Is anyone else with you?” And that one will say, “No one.” Then he will answer, “Keep quiet. For the name of the LORD is not to be mentioned.” 11For behold, the LORD is going to command that the great house be smashed to pieces and the small house to fragments.

      12Do horses run on rocks?
Or does one plow them with oxen?
Yet you have turned justice into poison
And the fruit of righteousness into wormwood,

      13You who rejoice in Lodebar,
And say, “Have we not by our own strength taken Karnaim for ourselves?”

      14“For behold, I am going to raise up a nation against you,
O house of Israel,” declares the LORD God of hosts,
“And they will afflict you from the entrance of Hamath
To the brook of the Arabah.”

Reflection on Amos 6:

  • The Danger of Complacency:
    The chapter opens with a warning against complacency, particularly among those in Zion and Samaria who felt secure in their wealth and power (Amos 6:1). This complacency led to neglecting justice and righteousness. Are you becoming complacent in your spiritual life or relying on worldly comforts for security? Examine your heart and renew your commitment to seeking God’s will.
  • Misplaced Confidence in Wealth:
    The people of Israel trusted in their luxurious lifestyles and fortified cities instead of in God (Amos 6:4-6, 13). This misplaced confidence blinded them to their spiritual poverty. Are you placing your trust in material possessions or achievements? Shift your focus to the eternal security found in God alone.
  • Neglecting Justice and Righteousness:
    Amos highlights the nation’s failure to uphold justice and righteousness, which are central to God’s character (Amos 6:12). True faith involves caring for others and living in alignment with God’s standards. Are you actively pursuing justice and righteousness in your life? Commit to reflecting God’s heart in your actions and relationships.
  • The Reality of God’s Judgment:
    Despite their false sense of security, Israel’s judgment was imminent. Amos warns that their wealth and power would not protect them from God’s justice (Amos 6:8-11). Are you heeding God’s warnings and aligning your life with His Word? Take His call to repentance seriously and seek to live in obedience to Him.
  • God’s Desire for True Devotion:
    God’s rebuke of Israel’s complacency reflects His desire for His people to depend on Him fully and live according to His will. Are you demonstrating true devotion to God in your daily life? Seek to honor Him with your heart, mind, and actions.

Summary Key Points:

  • Complacency Leads to Spiritual Decay: Comfort and security can blind us to our need for God.
  • Wealth Is Not a Substitute for God: Trust in Him, not in material possessions or achievements.
  • Justice and Righteousness Matter to God: Align your life with His standards and care for others.
  • Heed God’s Warnings: Judgment is real, and repentance is necessary to align with God’s will.
  • Demonstrate True Devotion: Live in dependence on God, reflecting His character in your actions.

Application:
Examine your life for areas where complacency or misplaced trust may have crept in. Reflect on how you can actively pursue justice and righteousness in your relationships and community. Turn to God in humility, repenting of any areas where you have strayed from His will. Commit to demonstrating true devotion to Him in every aspect of your life.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your warnings and call to repentance. Forgive us for times when we have grown complacent or placed our trust in worldly comforts instead of in You. Help us to pursue justice and righteousness, reflecting Your character in our lives. Teach us to live in true devotion to You, honoring 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.

Faith / Trusting God, Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Obeying God, Psalms, Scripture (e.g. Bible)

Is God’s Law A Burden? (Psalm 119, Part 2 of 4)

This post is the second in a series of 4 about Psalm 119.

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible. It was written originally in Hebrew in a literary style that begins one section after another, each with the next letter of the aleph bet (Hebrew alphabet). It is beautiful and passionate. It focuses on the law of God.

Read and digest all that it claims about the Law of God and then ask yourself, does it describe the law as burdensome? difficult? harsh? or does it describe it as quite different than that?

Put aside what you think you know about the law from those who do not understand it and listen to how it is described by one who understood it well and loved our heavenly Father very deeply.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 119:41-88

Meditations and Prayers Relating to the Law of God.

Vav.

     41May Your lovingkindnesses also come to me, O LORD,
Your salvation according to Your word;

      42So I will have an answer for him who reproaches me,
For I trust in Your word.

      43And do not take the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,
For I wait for Your ordinances.

      44So I will keep Your law continually,
Forever and ever.

      45And I will walk at liberty,
For I seek Your precepts.

      46I will also speak of Your testimonies before kings
And shall not be ashamed.

      47I shall delight in Your commandments,
Which I love.

      48And I shall lift up my hands to Your commandments,
Which I love;
And I will meditate on Your statutes.

Zayin.

49Remember the word to Your servant,
In which You have made me hope.

      50This is my comfort in my affliction,
That Your word has revived me.

      51The arrogant utterly deride me,
Yet I do not turn aside from Your law.

      52I have remembered Your ordinances from of old, O LORD,
And comfort myself.

      53Burning indignation has seized me because of the wicked,
Who forsake Your law.

      54Your statutes are my songs
In the house of my pilgrimage.

      55O LORD, I remember Your name in the night,
And keep Your law.

      56This has become mine,
That I observe Your precepts.

Heth.

57The LORD is my portion;
I have promised to keep Your words.

      58I sought Your favor with all my heart;
Be gracious to me according to Your word.

      59I considered my ways
And turned my feet to Your testimonies.

      60I hastened and did not delay
To keep Your commandments.

      61The cords of the wicked have encircled me,
But I have not forgotten Your law.

      62At midnight I shall rise to give thanks to You
Because of Your righteous ordinances.

      63I am a companion of all those who fear You,
And of those who keep Your precepts.

      64The earth is full of Your lovingkindness, O LORD;
Teach me Your statutes.

Teth.

65You have dealt well with Your servant,
O LORD, according to Your word.

      66Teach me good discernment and knowledge,
For I believe in Your commandments.

      67Before I was afflicted I went astray,
But now I keep Your word.

      68You are good and do good;
Teach me Your statutes.

      69The arrogant have forged a lie against me;
With all my heart I will observe Your precepts.

      70Their heart is covered with fat,
But I delight in Your law.

      71It is good for me that I was afflicted,
That I may learn Your statutes.

      72The law of Your mouth is better to me
Than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

Yodh.

     73Your hands made me and fashioned me;
Give me understanding, that I may learn Your commandments.

      74May those who fear You see me and be glad,
Because I wait for Your word.

      75I know, O LORD, that Your judgments are righteous,
And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.

      76O may Your lovingkindness comfort me,
According to Your word to Your servant.

      77May Your compassion come to me that I may live,
For Your law is my delight.

      78May the arrogant be ashamed, for they subvert me with a lie;
But I shall meditate on Your precepts.

      79May those who fear You turn to me,
Even those who know Your testimonies.

      80May my heart be blameless in Your statutes,
So that I will not be ashamed.

Kaph.

     81My soul languishes for Your salvation;
I wait for Your word.

      82My eyes fail with longing for Your word,
While I say, “When will You comfort me?”

      83Though I have become like a wineskin in the smoke,
I do not forget Your statutes.

      84How many are the days of Your servant?
When will You execute judgment on those who persecute me?

      85The arrogant have dug pits for me,
Men who are not in accord with Your law.

      86All Your commandments are faithful;
They have persecuted me with a lie; help me!

      87They almost destroyed me on earth,
But as for me, I did not forsake Your precepts.

      88Revive me according to Your lovingkindness,
So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.

Just to reflect on a few of the things God’s word says about the law: I trust in Your word, I will keep Your law continually forever and ever, I will walk at liberty because I seek Your precepts, I shall delight in Your commandments which I love, I will lift up my hands to Your commandments which I love, I have remembered Your ordinances and comfort myself, Your statutes are my songs, I shall give thanks to You because of Your righteous ordinances,  the earth if full of Your lovingkindness teach me Your statutes, I delight in Your law, and better than gold and silver.

None of this sounds like the description of a burden, or something I can’t wait to get rid of, which is how many Christians describe or talk about following the law. It sounds like a beautiful set of instructions from the Lord, which I want to understand more… both in their original context and with regards to how they still apply to my life today. Psalm 119, if we let it, can really be a testimony for the law of God as a wonderful gift and guide that helps us to know how God thinks we should live and what He values. Obviously to fully understand the depths of what is in the law and how it may still apply, we need to study the Torah (1st 5 books of the Bible).  Some of the elements of the law (e.g. ceremonial law) can no longer be carried out as God specified while there is no temple and no Levitical priesthood, but that should not discourage us from understanding and following God’s law as much as we can. Should we walk away from doing as Christ taught just because we can’t do it perfectly?

The Torah is a great place to start for any Christian, many of whom have been taught to really focus only on the New Testament. Spoiler alert… if the New Testament is the building, the Old Testament is the foundation that holds it up. They are not contradictory, but rather complementary.

Pray with me that our Creator and Father would open our eyes, and the eyes of His followers around the world, that we may behold wonderful things from His law. Give us understanding, that we may observe His law and keep it with all our heart.

To learn more:

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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.

Justice / Judgment, Repenting from Sin, Righteous, Salvation, Seeking God

Seek the Lord and Live (Amos 5)

What does it mean to truly seek the Lord?

Amos 5 is a plea for repentance and a call to seek God’s righteousness. It warns of judgment for those who continue in sin but offers hope to those who turn to the Lord with sincerity and obedience.

Key Verse:
“Seek the Lord and live, or He will sweep through the tribes of Joseph like a fire; it will devour them, and Bethel will have no one to quench it.” – Amos 5:6 (NIV)

Background Context:
Amos 5 delivers a lamentation over Israel, a nation caught in sin and idolatry. Despite their religious rituals, their hearts were far from God, and their actions were marked by injustice and unrighteousness. The chapter calls Israel to seek the Lord instead of relying on their corrupt systems or false worship. It highlights the importance of justice, righteousness, and humility before God.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Amos 5

“Seek Me that You May Live”

1Hear this word which I take up for you as a dirge, O house of Israel:

      2She has fallen, she will not rise again—
The virgin Israel.
She lies neglected on her land;
There is none to raise her up.

3For thus says the Lord GOD,
“The city which goes forth a thousand strong
Will have a hundred left,
And the one which goes forth a hundred strong
Will have ten left to the house of Israel.”

      4For thus says the LORD to the house of Israel,
“Seek Me that you may live.

      5“But do not resort to Bethel
And do not come to Gilgal,
Nor cross over to Beersheba;
For Gilgal will certainly go into captivity
And Bethel will come to trouble.

      6“Seek the LORD that you may live,
Or He will break forth like a fire, O house of Joseph,
And it will consume with none to quench it for Bethel,

      7For those who turn justice into wormwood
And cast righteousness down to the earth.”

      8He who made the Pleiades and Orion
And changes deep darkness into morning,
Who also darkens day into night,
Who calls for the waters of the sea
And pours them out on the surface of the earth,
The LORD is His name.

      9It is He who flashes forth with destruction upon the strong,
So that destruction comes upon the fortress.

      10They hate him who reproves in the gate,
And they abhor him who speaks with integrity.

      11Therefore because you impose heavy rent on the poor
And exact a tribute of grain from them,
Though you have built houses of well-hewn stone,
Yet you will not live in them;
You have planted pleasant vineyards, yet you will not drink their wine.

      12For I know your transgressions are many and your sins are great,
You who distress the righteous and accept bribes
And turn aside the poor in the gate.

      13Therefore at such a time the prudent person keeps silent, for it is an evil time.

      14Seek good and not evil, that you may live;
And thus may the LORD God of hosts be with you,
Just as you have said!

      15Hate evil, love good,
And establish justice in the gate!
Perhaps the LORD God of hosts
May be gracious to the remnant of Joseph.

      16Therefore thus says the LORD God of hosts, the Lord,
“There is wailing in all the plazas,
And in all the streets they say, ‘Alas! Alas!’
They also call the farmer to mourning
And professional mourners to lamentation.

      17“And in all the vineyards there is wailing,
Because I will pass through the midst of you,” says the LORD.

      18Alas, you who are longing for the day of the LORD,
For what purpose will the day of the LORD be to you?
It will be darkness and not light;

      19As when a man flees from a lion
And a bear meets him,
Or goes home, leans his hand against the wall
And a snake bites him.

      20Will not the day of the LORD be darkness instead of light,
Even gloom with no brightness in it?

      21“I hate, I reject your festivals,
Nor do I delight in your solemn assemblies.

      22“Even though you offer up to Me burnt offerings and your grain offerings,
I will not accept them;
And I will not even look at the peace offerings of your fatlings.

      23“Take away from Me the noise of your songs;
I will not even listen to the sound of your harps.

      24“But let justice roll down like waters
And righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.

      25“Did you present Me with sacrifices and grain offerings in the wilderness for forty years, O house of Israel? 26“You also carried along Sikkuth your king and Kiyyun, your images, the star of your gods which you made for yourselves. 27“Therefore, I will make you go into exile beyond Damascus,” says the LORD, whose name is the God of hosts.

Reflection on Amos 5:

  • The Call to Seek the Lord:
    Amos repeatedly urges Israel to “seek the Lord and live” (Amos 5:4, 5:6). This seeking is not merely about outward rituals but involves turning to God with sincere hearts and aligning their lives with His will. Are you seeking God wholeheartedly in your daily life? Reflect on how you can draw closer to Him through prayer, scripture, and obedience.
  • False Worship Is Meaningless:
    God rebukes Israel for their empty religious practices, stating that He despises their festivals and offerings (Amos 5:21-23). Worship without righteousness is unacceptable to God. Are you worshiping God with sincerity and aligning your actions with His commands? Let your worship flow from a life of obedience and humility.
  • The Importance of Justice and Righteousness:
    One of the most powerful verses in this chapter is Amos 5:24: “But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!” God desires justice and righteousness more than empty rituals. Are you actively seeking justice and living righteously in your relationships and community? Commit to reflecting God’s character in how you treat others.
  • The Danger of Rejecting God’s Call:
    Amos warns of impending judgment for those who refuse to repent (Amos 5:18-20). Relying on false security, such as wealth or outward religious practices, leads to destruction. Are there areas in your life where you are relying on something other than God? Surrender these to Him and trust in His provision and guidance.
  • God’s Heart for True Repentance:
    God’s desire is not to destroy but to redeem. His call to seek Him is a call to life and restoration. Are you responding to His call for repentance with humility and action? Trust that His mercy is greater than your failures and seek to walk in His ways.

Summary Key Points:

  • Seek God with Sincerity: True seeking involves aligning your heart and actions with His will.
  • Empty Rituals Are Not Enough: Worship must be accompanied by righteousness and obedience.
  • Justice and Righteousness Matter to God: Live in a way that reflects His character and care for others.
  • Reject False Security: Trust in God alone for your salvation and provision.
  • Repentance Brings Restoration: God’s desire is to redeem, not destroy, when we turn to Him.

Application:
Examine your heart and actions to see if they align with God’s will. Are there areas where you’ve relied on rituals or false securities instead of sincerely seeking Him? Commit to living out justice and righteousness in your daily life, reflecting His character to those around you. Respond to His call for repentance with humility and trust in His mercy.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us to seek You and live. Help us to turn to You with sincere hearts and align our lives with Your will. Teach us to live out justice and righteousness in our relationships and community. Forgive us for times when we’ve relied on rituals or false securities instead of trusting in You. Guide us to walk humbly in Your ways and glorify 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.

Discerning / Judging, Faith / Trusting God, Guide, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God, Salvation

Anchored in Salvation Through Christ (Hebrews 2)

What happens if we neglect the great salvation offered through Yeshua?

Hebrews 2 is a solemn reminder of the supremacy of Christ and the salvation He brings. It calls us to hold fast to His truth, follow His example, and live lives anchored in faith and gratitude.

Key Verse:
“How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?” – Hebrews 2:3 (NKJV)

Background Context:
Hebrews 2 builds on the themes of chapter 1, emphasizing the superiority of Yeshua to angels and His unique role in God’s redemptive plan. The chapter warns believers against drifting away from the truth, highlights Yeshua’s humanity and suffering, and underscores His role as the perfect Savior. By becoming fully human, Yeshua experienced suffering and death, defeating the power of the devil and delivering us from the fear of death.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Hebrews 2

Give Heed

      1For this reason we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away from it. 2For if the word spoken through angels proved unalterable, and every transgression and disobedience received a just penalty, 3how will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? After it was at the first spoken through the Lord, it was confirmed to us by those who heard, 4God also testifying with them, both by signs and wonders and by various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit according to His own will.

Earth Subject to Man

      5For He did not subject to angels the world to come, concerning which we are speaking.

6But one has testified somewhere, saying,
“WHAT IS MAN, THAT YOU REMEMBER HIM?
OR THE SON OF MAN, THAT YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT HIM?

      7“YOU HAVE MADE HIM FOR A LITTLE WHILE LOWER THAN THE ANGELS;
YOU HAVE CROWNED HIM WITH GLORY AND HONOR,
AND HAVE APPOINTED HIM OVER THE WORKS OF YOUR HANDS;

      8YOU HAVE PUT ALL THINGS IN SUBJECTION UNDER HIS FEET.”
For in subjecting all things to him, He left nothing that is not subject to him. But now we do not yet see all things subjected to him.

Jesus Briefly Humbled

      9But we do see Him who was made for a little while lower than the angels, namely, Jesus, because of the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, so that by the grace of God He might taste death for everyone.

      10For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things, and through whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to perfect the author of their salvation through sufferings. 11For both He who sanctifies and those who are sanctified are all from one Father; for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brethren,

12saying,
“I WILL PROCLAIM YOUR NAME TO MY BRETHREN,
IN THE MIDST OF THE CONGREGATION I WILL SING YOUR PRAISE.”

13And again,
“I WILL PUT MY TRUST IN HIM.”
And again,
“BEHOLD, I AND THE CHILDREN WHOM GOD HAS GIVEN ME.”

      14Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, 15and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives. 16For assuredly He does not give help to angels, but He gives help to the descendant of Abraham. 17Therefore, He had to be made like His brethren in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. 18For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted.

Reflection on Hebrews 2:

  • The Danger of Drifting Away:
    The chapter opens with a warning: “We must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it” (Hebrews 2:1). Neglecting God’s Word can lead to spiritual drift, often unnoticed until we are far from Him. Staying anchored in God’s truth also means living as Yeshua lived. He is our example of perfect obedience and faithfulness. If someone teaches you an application for life that does not align with how Yeshua walked, test it rigorously against scripture. Are you modeling your life after Yeshua’s example? Commit to studying His life and walking in His ways.
  • The Cost of Neglecting Salvation:
    Verse 3 challenges us to consider the consequences of ignoring God’s offer of salvation through Yeshua. His sacrifice is unparalleled, and rejecting it leaves us without hope. Are you fully embracing the salvation offered in Christ? Reflect on the magnitude of His gift and respond with gratitude and obedience.
  • Yeshua’s Humanity and Suffering:
    Verses 9-10 explain that Yeshua became fully human, enduring suffering and death, so He could bring many sons and daughters to glory. His suffering made Him the perfect pioneer of our salvation. Do you find encouragement in Yeshua’s understanding of your struggles? Trust in His ability to empathize and strengthen you in times of difficulty.
  • Freedom from Fear:
    Yeshua’s death destroyed the power of the devil and delivered us from the fear of death (Hebrews 2:14-15). This victory offers us freedom and hope, even in the face of life’s greatest challenges. Are you living in the freedom Yeshua provides? Let His triumph over death fill you with courage and peace.
  • Yeshua as Our Faithful High Priest:
    The chapter concludes by describing Yeshua as a merciful and faithful high priest who helps us in our weaknesses and intercedes on our behalf (Hebrews 2:17-18). Are you turning to Him in your times of need? Lean on His mercy and faithfulness, knowing that He understands your struggles and provides help.

Summary Key Points:

  • Pay Attention to God’s Word and Example: Stay anchored in Yeshua’s truth and follow His perfect example.
  • Salvation Is a Precious Gift: Reflect on the cost of Yeshua’s sacrifice and respond with gratitude.
  • Yeshua Understands Our Struggles: His humanity and suffering equip Him to help us in our weaknesses.
  • Live in Freedom from Fear: Yeshua’s victory over death offers us courage and hope.
  • Test All Teachings Against Yeshua’s Walk: Measure every application of life against His example and scripture.
  • Trust in Yeshua’s Intercession: He is our faithful high priest, interceding on our behalf before the Father.

Application:
Examine your life for areas where you may be drifting from God’s truth. Study Yeshua’s life as a model for how to walk in obedience to God’s will. Test any teaching or practice that contradicts His example. Reflect on the magnitude of His sacrifice and live in the freedom and hope He provides. Approach Him with confidence, knowing that He intercedes for you.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the great salvation we have in Yeshua. Help us to stay anchored in Your truth, following Yeshua’s perfect example in our daily lives. Teach us to test all things against Your Word and walk faithfully in obedience to You. Strengthen us to live in the freedom and hope of His victory and guide us to trust in His intercession. May our lives glorify Your name. In Yeshua’s 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.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Parables, Seeking God, Submitted / Servant, Teachable, Traditions / Holidays

The Widower Who Remarried: a Parable for the Holidays

In the tender narrative of a devoted widower, a poignant tale unfolds—a love story marked by cherished habits and traditions. This man, who once joyfully celebrated his first wife’s preferences with flowers, candy, and thoughtful gestures, found himself caught in the grip of those very traditions when she passed away.

Just to be clear, this is not a biblical parable, but one based on biblical teaching and one that is true many times over.

Grief-stricken but resilient, he remarried after a time of grieving, unaware of the impending storm that would brew within the walls of his new life. His second wife, with distinct tastes and desires, yearned for a love uniquely tailored to her. Despite gentle pleas for understanding, the man clung tenaciously to the echoes of his past, repeating gestures and traditions designed for his first love.

The stark contrast between his professions of love and the unchanged traditions left his second wife wounded and questioning. The pain intensified as the man, well-intentioned but misguided, failed to recognize the stark difference between honoring her and just holding on to the traditions of the love he once knew.

This thought-provoking parable serves as a mirror reflecting the way we often treat our relationship with God, especially when it comes to celebrating holidays. Steeped in long-held traditions, some stemming from ancient pagan practices, we, too, risk offering God a bouquet of weeds while insisting they are roses.

The parallel to our spiritual journey is striking. Are we, like the widower, willing to shed the comfort of familiar traditions and embrace God’s desires as communicated in the scriptures? Despite the discomfort and familial challenges, the heart of the matter lies in whether we choose man-made traditions over God’s prescribed path.

Diving deeper, the revelation unfolds that many commonly cherished celebrations—Christmas trees, wreaths, mistletoe, and even the December 25 date—are rooted in pagan worship practices. The Church, unable to quell these practices, eventually embraced them, akin to giving a weed the name of a rose.

The call is clear—to love God deeply is to align our lives with His desires, not clinging to traditions offensive to Him. The scriptures lay out the path, highlighting God’s Moedim (appointed times) or holy days for celebration, contrasting with the man-made festivals we’ve come to accept.

Acknowledging this truth is a challenging emotional journey. Admitting the need for change amidst familial resistance is a test of our devotion to Christ above all. As Jesus forewarned, following Him may stir discord even within our households, yet true discipleship requires prioritizing Christ over all familial bonds.

May this narrative stir a courageous introspection, prompting a prayerful pursuit of God’s kingdom above the familiar and cultural traditions. As the challenge resounds, may our hearts find the courage to trust in God’s ways over those of men, embracing the transformative journey toward a life more pleasing to Him.

If you truly love God, and submit your life to God… take the time to learn more about what He wants and not just stick to traditions of men that are offensive to Him. You can easily study online even using Christian encyclopedia’s like Zondervan or other encyclopedias. The origins are not secret, only that it has been accepted to celebrate God in ways that were developed by pagans for their gods. 119Ministries.com has put together an effective documentary in video form you can watch (The Christmas Question). They have previous teachings available for free you may consider as well (Sunburned – Part 1 and Sunburned – Part 2).

The LORD has also given us instructions on what holy days to celebrate to point to Him and our relationship with Him. They are called the Moedim and are outlined in Leviticus 23 and other places throughout the Bible.

You can find scripture where Jesus participated in the Moedim. You will never find record of Jesus celebrating Christmas and Easter (or almost anything we celebrate commonly today) in the Biblical record.

Passover and Easter are very different. See what they focus on. With God’s celebrations, the focus is always on Him and not gifts or food or simply ourselves. To learn more, scroll through and read from our Traditions/ Holidays category of teachings.

I recognize that this is an emotional subject for many and admitting that we should change is very hard. Even if we accept it and change our behavior, there will be much difficulty among family. This is to be expected when we stand for Christ above all others. Jesus said so himself in Matthew 10:23-39.

32 “Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. 33 But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven.

34 “Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword.

35 ‘I have come to set a man against his father,
    a daughter against her mother,
and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.
36     Your enemies will be right in your own household!’[l]

37 “If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. 38 If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. 39 If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.

We each must decide whether or not we submit to God fully or hold tightly to the traditions of man. By the way… study of the new testament clearly shows that clutching to the traditions of man was the way of the Pharisees and Sadducees, not the way of Jesus.

God wants his people to be holy (set apart for God’s use) and righteous (living according to God’s commands rather than the world’s). He wants us to put Him first, above everything else.

Challenge yourself to objectively evaluate your traditions and seek first the kingdom of God. Do not dismiss this quickly but rather prayerfully seek God to show you the truth of His word and how to apply it in your life. Ask yourself about any tradition you claim to observe to honor God, if you were not influenced by family or cultural traditions would you naturally come up with this tradition by studying the Bible? If not, that can be a good indicator.

Pray that God would give you courage and boldness to pursue him with how you live. My family and I have been on this journey, we remain on this journey still today. It is difficult at times, but well worth pursuing to grow closer to Him and be more pleasing to Him. Trust in His ways over those of men.

—-

Have you submitted your life to Jesus Christ? Are you living today filled with the peace and joy of truly knowing and following Jesus Christ? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Powerful / King of All, Discipline / Guidance From God, Hypocrisy, Justice / Judgment, Repenting from Sin

The God Who Warns and Calls Us Back (Amos 4)

How often do we ignore God’s warnings, thinking we still have time to repent?

Amos 4 presents a sobering message about God’s repeated warnings to His people and their failure to return to Him. It reminds us of His sovereignty, justice, and call for repentance before it’s too late.

Key Verse:
“Prepare to meet your God, O Israel!” – Amos 4:12 (NIV)

Background Context:
In Amos 4, God addresses Israel’s unfaithfulness, specifically calling out their oppression of the poor, idolatry, and false worship. Despite sending numerous warnings through droughts, famine, pestilence, and other calamities, Israel refused to return to Him. The chapter climaxes with a grave declaration that they must prepare to meet God, emphasizing His role as Creator and Judge. This passage challenges us to reflect on how we respond to God’s discipline and His call to repentance.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Amos 4

“Yet You Have Not Returned to Me”

1Hear this word, you cows of Bashan who are on the mountain of Samaria,
Who oppress the poor, who crush the needy,
Who say to your husbands, “Bring now, that we may drink!”

      2The Lord GOD has sworn by His holiness,
“Behold, the days are coming upon you
When they will take you away with meat hooks,
And the last of you with fish hooks.

      3“You will go out through breaches in the walls,
Each one straight before her,
And you will be cast to Harmon,” declares the LORD.

      4“Enter Bethel and transgress;
In Gilgal multiply transgression!
Bring your sacrifices every morning,
Your tithes every three days.

      5“Offer a thank offering also from that which is leavened,
And proclaim freewill offerings, make them known.
For so you love to do, you sons of Israel,”
Declares the Lord GOD.

      6“But I gave you also cleanness of teeth in all your cities
And lack of bread in all your places,
Yet you have not returned to Me,” declares the LORD.

      7“Furthermore, I withheld the rain from you
While there were still three months until harvest.
Then I would send rain on one city
And on another city I would not send rain;
One part would be rained on,
While the part not rained on would dry up.

      8“So two or three cities would stagger to another city to drink water,
But would not be satisfied;
Yet you have not returned to Me,” declares the LORD.

      9“I smote you with scorching wind and mildew;
And the caterpillar was devouring
Your many gardens and vineyards, fig trees and olive trees;
Yet you have not returned to Me,” declares the LORD.

      10“I sent a plague among you after the manner of Egypt;
I slew your young men by the sword along with your captured horses,
And I made the stench of your camp rise up in your nostrils;
Yet you have not returned to Me,” declares the LORD.

      11“I overthrew you, as God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah,
And you were like a firebrand snatched from a blaze;
Yet you have not returned to Me,” declares the LORD.

      12“Therefore thus I will do to you, O Israel;
Because I will do this to you,
Prepare to meet your God, O Israel.”

      13For behold, He who forms mountains and creates the wind
And declares to man what are His thoughts,
He who makes dawn into darkness
And treads on the high places of the earth,
The LORD God of hosts is His name.

Reflection on Amos 4:

  • God’s Discipline Is Meant to Turn Us Back to Him: Throughout the chapter, God recounts the judgments He sent to Israel, each ending with the refrain, “Yet you have not returned to Me” (Amos 4:6-11). These actions were not acts of cruelty but of love, meant to wake them up and bring them back to Him. Are there areas in your life where God is trying to get your attention? Consider how His discipline may be calling you to repentance.
  • The Danger of Ignoring God’s Warnings: Despite clear signs of God’s hand, Israel hardened their hearts and continued in sin. This serves as a warning for us today. Are you ignoring or dismissing God’s promptings in your life? Take His warnings seriously, recognizing that they are given out of love to protect and guide you.
  • False Worship and Hypocrisy Are Meaningless: God rebukes Israel for their hollow religious practices, which were done for show rather than from genuine devotion (Amos 4:4-5). Worship without obedience is meaningless to God. Are you offering God sincere worship from a heart of obedience, or are you going through the motions? Seek to honor Him with both your actions and your heart.
  • Prepare to Meet Your God: Verse 12 delivers a powerful reminder of God’s authority and the reality of judgment. Meeting God is inevitable for everyone, whether in this life or the next. Are you living in a way that prepares you to stand before Him? Reflect on His holiness and align your life with His will.
  • God’s Sovereignty Is Unchanging: The chapter closes by declaring God’s role as Creator and Judge: “He who forms the mountains, creates the wind, and reveals His thoughts to mankind” (Amos 4:13). This reminds us of His power, wisdom, and authority. Are you submitting to God’s sovereignty in your life? Trust in His plans and His timing, even when they challenge you.

Summary Key Points:

  • God Disciplines to Draw Us Back: His warnings are acts of love meant to bring us to repentance.
  • Ignoring God’s Warnings Is Dangerous: Failing to respond to His discipline hardens our hearts.
  • Worship Requires Obedience: Sincere worship comes from a heart aligned with God’s will.
  • Prepare to Meet God: Live each day ready to stand before Him, honoring His holiness.
  • God Is Sovereign Over All: Trust in His power and submit to His authority in every area of life.

Application:
Take time to reflect on areas where God may be calling you to repentance. Are there warnings you’ve been ignoring or areas of hypocrisy in your worship? Respond to His discipline with humility and a renewed commitment to obedience. Prepare your heart to meet God by living a life that honors Him daily. Trust in His sovereignty, even in the midst of challenges, knowing that His plans are for your ultimate good.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love and patience, even when we stray. Help us to recognize Your discipline as a call to repentance and guide us to respond with humility and obedience. Teach us to worship You sincerely, with hearts aligned to Your will. Prepare us to stand before You, living lives that bring glory to Your name. Thank You for Your sovereignty 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.

 

Faith / Trusting God, Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God, Psalms, Scripture (e.g. Bible)

Is God’s Law A Burden? (Psalm 119, Part 1 of 4)

This post is the first of a series of 4 about Psalm 119.

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible. It is written originally in Hebrew in a literary style that begins one section after another, each with the next letter of the aleph bet (Hebrew alphabet). It is beautiful and passionate. It focuses on the law of God. Read and digest all that it claims about the law of God and then ask yourself, does describe the law as burdensome? difficult? harsh? or does it describe it as quite different than that?

Does it makes sense that the Christian church has completely turned its back on the law of God? Even today, the church continues to turn its back further and further on even the last remaining of the 10 commandments. Some pastors now even want to simply define God’s instruction to “love each other”. Let us explore what scripture says rather than what others may teach that it says.

Put aside what you think you know about the law from those who do not understand it and listen to how it is described by one who understood it well and loved our heavenly Father very deeply. Don’t worry for now about what is the full content of “the law”, but instead let us just try to better understand if scripture reveals it to be burdensome or something else.

Perhaps we start with what Yeshua said about the law and then proceed to the first part of Psalm 119. All of the law is based loving God and loving others. The law shall not pass away before heaven and earth pass away.

Matthew 22:34-40

  34But when the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered themselves together. 35One of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question, testing Him, 36“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” 37And He said to him, “ ‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.’ 38“This is the great and foremost commandment. 39“The second is like it, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ 40“On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.”

Yeshua also clearly stated that He did not come to abolish the law and that heaven and earth shall pass away before the law. He emphasized that we are to not annul even the least of these commandments.

Matthew 5:17-19

  17“Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. 18“For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished. 19“Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever keeps and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

With this in mind, that Yeshua said the law is not abolished nor does any of it pass away until heaven and earth pass away, and that the law is based on loving God and loving one another, let us read through and try to fully digest what else His word says about the law in Psalm 119. Due to the length of this Psalm, and the fact that I want you to be able to reflect meaningfully on the content, I will break it up into a series of posts. Obviously you can read the whole thing by clicking the embedded link to Psalm 119 below.

Psalm 119:1-40

Meditations and Prayers Relating to the Law of God.

Aleph.

     1How blessed are those whose way is blameless,
Who walk in the law of the LORD.

      2How blessed are those who observe His testimonies,
Who seek Him with all their heart.

      3They also do no unrighteousness;
They walk in His ways.

      4You have ordained Your precepts,
That we should keep them diligently.

      5Oh that my ways may be established
To keep Your statutes!

      6Then I shall not be ashamed
When I look upon all Your commandments.

      7I shall give thanks to You with uprightness of heart,
When I learn Your righteous judgments.

      8I shall keep Your statutes;
Do not forsake me utterly!

Beth.

     9How can a young man keep his way pure?
By keeping it according to Your word.

      10With all my heart I have sought You;
Do not let me wander from Your commandments.

      11Your word I have treasured in my heart,
That I may not sin against You.

      12Blessed are You, O LORD;
Teach me Your statutes.

      13With my lips I have told of
All the ordinances of Your mouth.

      14I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,
As much as in all riches.

      15I will meditate on Your precepts
And regard Your ways.

      16I shall delight in Your statutes;
I shall not forget Your word.

Gimel.

     17Deal bountifully with Your servant,
That I may live and keep Your word.

      18Open my eyes, that I may behold
Wonderful things from Your law.

      19I am a stranger in the earth;
Do not hide Your commandments from me.

      20My soul is crushed with longing
After Your ordinances at all times.

      21You rebuke the arrogant, the cursed,
Who wander from Your commandments.

      22Take away reproach and contempt from me,
For I observe Your testimonies.

      23Even though princes sit and talk against me,
Your servant meditates on Your statutes.

      24Your testimonies also are my delight;
They are my counselors.

Daleth.

    25My soul cleaves to the dust;
Revive me according to Your word.

      26I have told of my ways, and You have answered me;
Teach me Your statutes.

      27Make me understand the way of Your precepts,
So I will meditate on Your wonders.

      28My soul weeps because of grief;
Strengthen me according to Your word.

      29Remove the false way from me,
And graciously grant me Your law.

      30I have chosen the faithful way;
I have placed Your ordinances before me.

      31I cling to Your testimonies;
O LORD, do not put me to shame!

      32I shall run the way of Your commandments,
For You will enlarge my heart.

He.

     33Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes,
And I shall observe it to the end.

      34Give me understanding, that I may observe Your law
And keep it with all my heart.

      35Make me walk in the path of Your commandments,
For I delight in it.

      36Incline my heart to Your testimonies
And not to dishonest gain.

      37Turn away my eyes from looking at vanity,
And revive me in Your ways.

      38Establish Your word to Your servant,
As that which produces reverence for You.

      39Turn away my reproach which I dread,
For Your ordinances are good.

      40Behold, I long for Your precepts;
Revive me through Your righteousness.

Just to reflect on a few of the things God’s word says about the law… you could add quite a few more even from this first section of Psalm 119: righteous, blessed, do not be ashamed, teaches me, meditate on it, do not forget it, do not go astray from it, keep statutes, pure, treasured, rejoice, delight…

The law sounds wonderful as described here. It is not a burden that we need to be free of it, as so many teach today. If it were, would not Yeshua have said so? Would not Yeshua have told us the law was abolished? obsolete? The law described here is something which helps us, something in which we can rejoice and delight, something we can treasure. It is not followed out of obligation or for salvation anymore than obeying any other instructions of Yeshua.

It sounds like a beautiful set of instructions from the Lord, which I want to understand more… both in their original context and with regards to how they still apply to my life today. Psalm 119, if we let it, can really be a testimony for the law of God as a wonderful gift and guide that helps us to know how God thinks we should live and what He values. Obviously to fully understand the depths of what is in the law and how it may still apply, we need to study the Torah (1st 5 books of the Bible).  Some of the elements of the law (e.g. ceremonial law) can no longer be carried out as God specified while there is no temple and no Levitical priesthood, but that should not discourage us from understanding and following God’s law as much as we can. Should we walk away from doing as Christ taught just because we can’t do it perfectly?

It is hard to consider this for many as it contradicts so much of what is taught in churches today. However, we must decide what is the unchanging record of God’s instruction… the Bible or the word of man?  We can be sure that Yeshua referred to the scriptures as the source of truth for the law of God, not the laws of the Pharisees.

The Torah is a great place to start for any Christian, many of whom have been taught to really focus only on the New Testament. Spoiler alert… if the New Testament is the building, the Old Testament is the foundation that holds it up. They are not contradictory, but rather complementary.

Pray with me that our Creator and Father would open our eyes, and the eyes of His followers around the world, that we may behold wonderful things from His law. Give us understanding, that we may observe His law and keep it with all our heart.

To learn more:

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, Immutable (unchanging), Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Strong in Our Weakness

The Lord Is Our Strength and Salvation (Psalm 118)

What does it mean to declare that the Lord’s steadfast love endures forever?

Psalm 118 is a triumphant song of thanksgiving, celebrating God’s steadfast love, deliverance, and faithfulness. It calls us to trust in Him as our refuge, strength, and salvation, pointing ultimately to Yeshua as the cornerstone of our faith.

Key Verse:
“The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation.” – Psalm 118:14 (NIV)

Background Context:
Psalm 118 is one of the “Hallel” psalms, often sung during Jewish festivals, particularly Passover. It was a communal declaration of God’s deliverance and faithfulness, likely associated with a time of victory or restoration for Israel. This psalm is also significant in its prophetic references to Yeshua, particularly the verse about the rejected stone becoming the cornerstone, later quoted in the New Testament (Matthew 21:42, Acts 4:11).

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 118

Thanksgiving for the LORD’S Saving Goodness.

1Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good;
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

2Oh let Israel say,
“His lovingkindness is everlasting.”

3Oh let the house of Aaron say,
“His lovingkindness is everlasting.”

4Oh let those who fear the LORD say,
“His lovingkindness is everlasting.”

5From my distress I called upon the LORD;
The LORD answered me and set me in a large place.

6The LORD is for me; I will not fear;
What can man do to me?

7The LORD is for me among those who help me;
Therefore I will look with satisfaction on those who hate me.

8It is better to take refuge in the LORD
Than to trust in man.

9It is better to take refuge in the LORD
Than to trust in princes.

10All nations surrounded me;
In the name of the LORD I will surely cut them off.

11They surrounded me, yes, they surrounded me;
In the name of the LORD I will surely cut them off.

12They surrounded me like bees;
They were extinguished as a fire of thorns;
In the name of the LORD I will surely cut them off.

13You pushed me violently so that I was falling,
But the LORD helped me.

14The LORD is my strength and song,
And He has become my salvation.

15The sound of joyful shouting and salvation is in the tents of the righteous;
The right hand of the LORD does valiantly.

16The right hand of the LORD is exalted;
The right hand of the LORD does valiantly.

17I will not die, but live,
And tell of the works of the LORD.

18The LORD has disciplined me severely,
But He has not given me over to death.

19Open to me the gates of righteousness;
I shall enter through them, I shall give thanks to the LORD.

20This is the gate of the LORD;
The righteous will enter through it.

21I shall give thanks to You, for You have answered me,
And You have become my salvation.

22The stone which the builders rejected
Has become the chief corner stone.

23This is the LORD’S doing;
It is marvelous in our eyes.

24This is the day which the LORD has made;
Let us rejoice and be glad in it.

25O LORD, do save, we beseech You;
O LORD, we beseech You, do send prosperity!

26Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the LORD;
We have blessed you from the house of the LORD.

27The LORD is God, and He has given us light;
Bind the festival sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar.

28You are my God, and I give thanks to You;
You are my God, I extol You.

29Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good;
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

Reflection on Psalm 118:

  • The Lord’s Steadfast Love Endures Forever: The psalm opens and closes with this declaration, emphasizing the unchanging, faithful love of God. His covenant love is the foundation of our trust and praise. Are you grounding your faith in the steadfast love of the Lord? Reflect on how His love has sustained you in every season.
  • God Is Our Refuge: Verses 8-9 declare that it is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man or princes. In a world of shifting loyalties and uncertainties, God remains a secure and unchanging refuge. Are you placing your trust fully in Him? Let go of reliance on worldly solutions and find your strength in His unshakable promises.
  • The Lord Is Our Strength and Salvation: Verses 14-16 proclaim God as the source of strength and deliverance. This declaration reminds us that our victories come from Him, not our own efforts. Are you relying on God for the strength to face challenges? Acknowledge His power in your life and give Him the glory for every triumph.
  • The Cornerstone of Faith: Verse 22 declares, “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.” This verse prophetically points to Yeshua, who was rejected by many but is the foundation of salvation for all who believe. Is Yeshua the cornerstone of your life? Build your faith on Him, trusting in His role as Savior and Redeemer.
  • Rejoicing in the Day the Lord Has Made: Verse 24 encourages us to rejoice in God’s provision and sovereignty: “This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Each day is a gift from God, filled with opportunities to glorify Him. Are you approaching each day with gratitude and joy? Celebrate His goodness and faithfulness in every moment.

Summary Key Points:

  • God’s Love Is Steadfast and Eternal: His faithful love is the foundation of our trust and worship.
  • The Lord Is a Secure Refuge: Trust in Him above all else, knowing that He will never fail you.
  • God Is Our Strength and Deliverer: Acknowledge Him as the source of every victory and salvation.
  • Yeshua Is the Cornerstone: Build your life on the foundation of His love and redemption.
  • Rejoice in God’s Sovereignty: Each day is a gift from the Lord, deserving of gratitude and praise.

Application:
Spend time reflecting on God’s steadfast love and faithfulness in your life. Examine areas where you may be relying on yourself or others instead of taking refuge in Him. Recommit to building your faith on Yeshua, the cornerstone of salvation, and approach each day with gratitude and joy. Share the message of God’s love and deliverance with others, pointing them to the hope found in Him.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your steadfast love and faithfulness. You are our refuge, strength, and salvation. Help us to trust in You fully, building our lives on the foundation of Yeshua, the cornerstone. Teach us to rejoice in each day as a gift from You, and to glorify Your name in all that we do. May our lives be a testimony of Your goodness and grace. In Yeshua’s 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.