Category Archives: Blessed

Blessed, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Psalms

The Blessings of a Righteous Life (Psalm 112)

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What does it mean to live a life that’s blessed by God?

Psalm 112 paints a picture of the blessings that flow from living a righteous life, one that honors God and is marked by generosity, integrity, and faith. This psalm encourages us to pursue godliness, knowing that those who fear the Lord will experience His steadfast goodness.

Key Verse:
“Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who greatly delights in His commandments.” – Psalm 112:1 (ESV)

Background Context:
Psalm 112 celebrates the blessings and rewards of a life rooted in the fear of the Lord. This psalm contrasts the life of the righteous with the instability of the wicked. The righteous are described as steadfast, generous, and merciful—qualities that mirror God’s own character. This psalm reminds us that when we revere God and obey His commandments, we not only experience His blessings but also become a blessing to others.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 112

Prosperity of the One Who Fears the LORD.

1Praise the LORD!
How blessed is the man who fears the LORD,
Who greatly delights in His commandments.

      2His descendants will be mighty on earth;
The generation of the upright will be blessed.

      3Wealth and riches are in his house,
And his righteousness endures forever.

      4Light arises in the darkness for the upright;
He is gracious and compassionate and righteous.

      5It is well with the man who is gracious and lends;
He will maintain his cause in judgment.

      6For he will never be shaken;
The righteous will be remembered forever.

      7He will not fear evil tidings;
His heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.

      8His heart is upheld, he will not fear,
Until he looks with satisfaction on his adversaries.

      9He has given freely to the poor,
His righteousness endures forever;
His horn will be exalted in honor.

      10The wicked will see it and be vexed,
He will gnash his teeth and melt away;
The desire of the wicked will perish.

Reflection on Psalm 112:

  • The Foundation of a Blessed Life: The psalm begins with the statement that those who fear the Lord and delight in His commandments are blessed. Fearing God means living with reverence and respect for Him, choosing to align our lives with His Word. This foundational respect for God’s authority shapes our choices and our character, creating a life that reflects His goodness. Are you aligning your life with God’s Word? Embrace a heart that reveres Him and finds joy in His commandments.
  • Generosity and Compassion as Reflections of God’s Love: Verse 4 describes the righteous as “gracious, merciful, and righteous.” These qualities reflect God’s love and compassion, showing that a heart rooted in God’s ways will overflow with generosity toward others. The blessings we receive from God are meant to be shared, allowing us to be vessels of His love. How are you showing compassion to others? Seek ways to bless those around you, demonstrating God’s love through acts of kindness.
  • Steadfastness in Times of Trouble: The psalm highlights the strength and stability of the righteous, saying they “will not be afraid of evil tidings; their heart is firm, trusting in the Lord” (Psalm 112:7). A life rooted in God’s promises remains secure even in challenging times. When we place our trust in Him, we are not easily shaken by fear or anxiety. Are there areas in your life where you need to trust God more deeply? Anchor yourself in His promises, allowing His peace to guard your heart.
  • A Legacy of Light and Integrity: The psalm also describes the righteous as a “light in the darkness” (Psalm 112:4). Those who walk with God bring hope and encouragement to others, their lives shining as examples of His grace. Integrity and faithfulness leave a lasting impact, providing guidance and inspiration for others to follow. Are you living as a light in your community? Commit to a life of integrity, allowing your actions to point others to God’s truth and love.
  • Confidence in God’s Provision: Finally, the psalm assures us that the righteous “will be remembered forever” and “will not be moved” (Psalm 112:6). God promises stability and honor to those who walk in His ways. This confidence comes from knowing that God is faithful and that He sustains those who trust in Him. Are you resting in God’s provision for your life? Embrace the assurance that He is with you, and that He will uphold you in every season.

Summary Key Points:

  • Fear of the Lord Is the Foundation of Blessing: A life that honors God’s authority and delights in His Word is richly blessed.
  • Reflecting God’s Love Through Generosity: The righteous are marked by compassion, mirroring God’s kindness in their treatment of others.
  • Trusting God Through Troubling Times: Those who trust in God remain steadfast and unshaken, finding peace even in the face of challenges.
  • Living as a Light and Example: A life of integrity and faithfulness brings hope and inspiration to others, shining as a witness to God’s truth.
  • Confidence in God’s Provision: The righteous have a firm foundation, resting in the assurance that God will sustain and honor them.

Application:
Reflect on the qualities of a righteous life as described in Psalm 112. Are you cultivating a fear of the Lord and delighting in His Word? Ask God to help you grow in generosity, compassion, and integrity, allowing your life to be a light to those around you. Trust in His provision, knowing that He is faithful to sustain you through every season.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessings that come from living a life rooted in Your truth. Help us to fear You and to delight in Your commandments. Cultivate in us a heart of generosity, compassion, and integrity, that we may reflect Your love to others. Strengthen us to remain steadfast in times of trouble, and help us to trust fully in Your provision. May our lives shine as lights in this world, bringing glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

All Powerful / King of All, Blessed, Faithful, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Psalms, Thankfulness

Flourishing in God’s Faithfulness (Psalm 92)

Do you ever wonder how to truly flourish in life, no matter your circumstances?

Psalm 92 reveals the key to a life of fruitfulness and joy—rooting ourselves in God’s faithfulness and praising Him continually.

Key Verse: “The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God.” – Psalm 92:12-13 (NKJV)

Background Context: Psalm 92 is a song for the Sabbath day, a psalm that celebrates the greatness and faithfulness of God. It contrasts the fleeting success of the wicked with the enduring strength and flourishing of the righteous. The psalm calls believers to praise God for His steadfast love in the morning and His faithfulness at night, recognizing that true flourishing comes from being rooted in God.

Psalm 92

Praise for the LORD’S Goodness.

A Psalm, a Song for the Sabbath day.

1It is good to give thanks to the LORD
And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High;

      2To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning
And Your faithfulness by night,

      3With the ten-stringed lute and with the harp,
With resounding music upon the lyre.

      4For You, O LORD, have made me glad by what You have done,
I will sing for joy at the works of Your hands.

      5How great are Your works, O LORD!
Your thoughts are very deep.

      6A senseless man has no knowledge,
Nor does a stupid man understand this:

      7That when the wicked sprouted up like grass
And all who did iniquity flourished,
It was only that they might be destroyed forevermore.

      8But You, O LORD, are on high forever.

      9For, behold, Your enemies, O LORD,
For, behold, Your enemies will perish;
All who do iniquity will be scattered.

      10But You have exalted my horn like that of the wild ox;
I have been anointed with fresh oil.

      11And my eye has looked exultantly upon my foes,
My ears hear of the evildoers who rise up against me.

      12The righteous man will flourish like the palm tree,
He will grow like a cedar in Lebanon.

      13Planted in the house of the LORD,
They will flourish in the courts of our God.

      14They will still yield fruit in old age;
They shall be full of sap and very green,

      15To declare that the LORD is upright;
He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.

Reflection on Psalm 92:

  • Praise and Thanksgiving: The psalm opens with a joyful declaration: “It is good to give thanks to the Lord” (Psalm 92:1). Praising God is both an expression of gratitude and a spiritual discipline that reorients our hearts toward His goodness and faithfulness. Morning and evening, we are called to remember His steadfast love and faithfulness (Psalm 92:2).
  • The Greatness of God: Verses 5-6 declare the greatness of God’s works and His deep thoughts, contrasting His wisdom with the short-sightedness of the wicked. Though the wicked may flourish for a moment, their success is temporary, like grass that quickly withers (Psalm 92:7). This reminds us that God’s ways are higher and more enduring than the fleeting gains of the world.
  • Flourishing Like a Palm Tree: In contrast to the wicked, the righteous are described as flourishing like a palm tree and growing strong like a cedar of Lebanon (Psalm 92:12). Palm trees are known for their longevity and resilience, while cedars are renowned for their strength. This imagery reflects the enduring strength and vitality of those who remain rooted in God.
  • Planted in the House of the Lord: The source of this flourishing is clear—those who are “planted in the house of the Lord” (Psalm 92:13). When we root ourselves in God’s presence, abiding in His Word and living in relationship with Him, we experience spiritual vitality and fruitfulness, even in old age (Psalm 92:14). Our lives bear the fruit of righteousness, reflecting God’s goodness to those around us.
  • Declaring God’s Faithfulness: The psalm ends by reaffirming the psalmist’s desire to declare that “the Lord is upright; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him” (Psalm 92:15). When we flourish in God’s presence, our lives become a testimony to His faithfulness and righteousness.

Summary Key Points:

  • Praise as a Foundation: Continually praising God for His steadfast love and faithfulness reorients our hearts toward His goodness and strengthens our relationship with Him.
  • God’s Enduring Strength: The righteous, rooted in God, experience lasting flourishing and strength, like a palm tree and a cedar of Lebanon.
  • Rooted in God’s Presence: Flourishing comes from being planted in the house of the Lord, dwelling in His presence and living in alignment with His ways.
  • A Life of Fruitfulness: Those who are planted in God’s presence bear spiritual fruit and remain vibrant, even in old age, becoming a testimony to God’s faithfulness.

Application: Reflect on where you are planted—are you rooted in God’s presence, drawing strength and nourishment from Him? Take time to praise God each day, remembering His steadfast love and faithfulness. Ask Him to help you flourish spiritually, bearing fruit that endures and blesses others. Remember that true flourishing comes not from worldly success but from being deeply connected to God.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your steadfast love and faithfulness. Help us to root ourselves in Your presence, drawing strength and nourishment from You. Teach us to praise You continually, morning and evening, and help us to flourish like the palm tree, bearing fruit that reflects Your goodness. May our lives be a testimony to Your faithfulness, no matter our circumstances. 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.

Blessed, Courage / Fear, Faith / Trusting God, Leadership, Obeying God

Faithful in the Small Things: Standing Firm in a Foreign Land (Daniel 1)

What does it look like to remain faithful to God when everything around you pulls you in the opposite direction?

Daniel 1 offers an inspiring example of how small acts of obedience can lead to great impact, even in the face of cultural pressure.

Key Verse: “But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king’s food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself.” – Daniel 1:8 (ESV)

Background Context: Daniel 1 introduces us to Daniel and his friends, who are taken captive from their homeland of Judah and brought to Babylon to be trained for service in the king’s court. Despite being placed in a foreign land with new customs and values, Daniel and his friends remain faithful to God. Their small acts of obedience, including refusing to eat the king’s food, set the stage for their future influence and favor with God.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Daniel 1

The Choice Young Men

      1In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. 2The Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, along with some of the vessels of the house of God; and he brought them to the land of Shinar, to the house of his god, and he brought the vessels into the treasury of his god.

      3Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, the chief of his officials, to bring in some of the sons of Israel, including some of the royal family and of the nobles, 4youths in whom was no defect, who were good-looking, showing intelligence in every branch of wisdom, endowed with understanding and discerning knowledge, and who had ability for serving in the king’s court; and he ordered him to teach them the literature and language of the Chaldeans. 5The king appointed for them a daily ration from the king’s choice food and from the wine which he drank, and appointed that they should be educated three years, at the end of which they were to enter the king’s personal service. 6Now among them from the sons of Judah were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. 7Then the commander of the officials assigned new names to them; and to Daniel he assigned the name Belteshazzar, to Hananiah Shadrach, to Mishael Meshach and to Azariah Abed-nego.

Daniel’s Resolve

      8But Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king’s choice food or with the wine which he drank; so he sought permission from the commander of the officials that he might not defile himself. 9Now God granted Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the commander of the officials, 10and the commander of the officials said to Daniel, “I am afraid of my lord the king, who has appointed your food and your drink; for why should he see your faces looking more haggard than the youths who are your own age? Then you would make me forfeit my head to the king.” 11But Daniel said to the overseer whom the commander of the officials had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, 12“Please test your servants for ten days, and let us be given some vegetables to eat and water to drink. 13“Then let our appearance be observed in your presence and the appearance of the youths who are eating the king’s choice food; and deal with your servants according to what you see.”

      14So he listened to them in this matter and tested them for ten days. 15At the end of ten days their appearance seemed better and they were fatter than all the youths who had been eating the king’s choice food. 16So the overseer continued to withhold their choice food and the wine they were to drink, and kept giving them vegetables.

      17As for these four youths, God gave them knowledge and intelligence in every branch of literature and wisdom; Daniel even understood all kinds of visions and dreams.

      18Then at the end of the days which the king had specified for presenting them, the commander of the officials presented them before Nebuchadnezzar. 19The king talked with them, and out of them all not one was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king’s personal service. 20As for every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king consulted them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and conjurers who were in all his realm. 21And Daniel continued until the first year of Cyrus the king.

Reflection on Daniel 1:

  • Daniel’s Resolve: Daniel and his friends are placed in a challenging environment where they are expected to conform to Babylonian culture and practices (Daniel 1:3-7). However, Daniel resolves not to defile himself with the king’s food, which likely did not adhere to the dietary laws God had given to Israel (Daniel 1:8). This small act of obedience demonstrates Daniel’s commitment to honor God, even in seemingly minor areas.
  • Faithfulness in the Small Things: Daniel’s decision not to eat the king’s food may seem insignificant compared to the bigger challenges he would later face, but it was a pivotal moment of faithfulness. Jesus taught that “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much” (Luke 16:10). Daniel’s faithfulness in small things set the foundation for his greater acts of obedience and courage later in life.
  • God’s Favor: Because of their obedience, God blesses Daniel and his friends with health, wisdom, and understanding beyond that of their peers (Daniel 1:17-20). Their willingness to honor God in the little things brought them favor with both God and the king, allowing them to rise to positions of influence in the Babylonian empire.
  • Cultural Pressure: Daniel and his friends faced immense pressure to conform to the Babylonian culture, yet they remained faithful to God. This serves as a powerful example for us today as we navigate a world that often pressures us to compromise our values and faith. Daniel’s story reminds us that it is possible to remain true to God, even when the world around us tries to pull us away.
  • God’s Sovereignty: Throughout Daniel 1, we see God’s sovereignty at work, even in the midst of exile. God allowed Daniel and his friends to be taken to Babylon, but He also gave them favor and wisdom. This highlights that God is in control, even when we find ourselves in difficult or unfamiliar circumstances.

Summary Key Points:

  • Small Acts of Obedience: Faithfulness in the small things matters to God and can set the foundation for greater faithfulness later in life.
  • Courage to Stand Firm: Daniel’s resolve to honor God, even in the face of cultural pressure, serves as a powerful example of standing firm in our faith.
  • God’s Favor in Obedience: When we honor God, even in small ways, we open the door for His favor and blessings in our lives.
  • God’s Sovereignty: No matter where we find ourselves, God is in control and can use our faithfulness to bring about His purposes.

Application: Reflect on the small areas of your life where you might be facing pressure to conform to the world’s standards. How can you remain faithful to God in those areas? Remember that even small acts of obedience matter to God and can have a significant impact. Trust that God sees your faithfulness and will honor it, even when the world around you pressures you to compromise.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of Daniel and his friends, who remained faithful to You even in the face of immense pressure. Help us to honor You in the small things, knowing that our faithfulness matters to You. Give us the courage to stand firm in our convictions, even when the world tries to pull us away. We trust in Your sovereignty and ask for Your favor as we seek to live lives that glorify You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Blessed, Obeying God

Blessed Beyond Earthly Ties (Luke 11:27-28)

Have you ever wondered what it means to truly be blessed? In a world where blessings are often equated with material wealth or success, Jesus offers a profound insight that redirects our focus.

Background Context: In Luke 11:27-28, Jesus responds to a woman who blesses His mother for giving birth to Him. His reply unveils a deeper truth about blessings and the pathway to true fulfillment.

Luke 11:27-28

      27While Jesus was saying these things, one of the women in the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, “Blessed is the womb that bore You and the breasts at which You nursed.” 28But He said, “On the contrary, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it.”

Reflection on Luke 11:27-28:

  1. The Blessing of Hearing and Keeping God’s Word: Jesus shifts the focus from His physical mother to the spiritual realm. He emphasizes that those who hear and keep God’s Word are blessed (Luke 11:28). This highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness in our relationship with God.
  2. Elevating Spiritual Realities: While honoring His earthly mother is noble, Jesus redirects attention to the greater blessing found in spiritual obedience. It underscores the eternal significance of aligning our lives with God’s will and Word.

Summary Key Points: Jesus’s response challenges us to rethink our understanding of blessings. True blessing isn’t about worldly acclaim or material possessions, but about our relationship with God. It’s found in hearing His Word and obediently living by it. This spiritual obedience leads to lasting fulfillment and the assurance of God’s favor.

Call to Action: Let us strive to prioritize our spiritual walk over earthly pursuits. Take time today to reflect on how you hear and keep God’s Word in your life. Are there areas where you can deepen your obedience and trust in Him? Embrace the blessing of aligning your life with His will.

Closing: As we seek to follow Jesus’s example of honoring God through obedience, may we experience the true depth of His blessings. Let us find joy in hearing His Word and living it out daily, knowing that in doing so, we are blessed beyond earthly measures.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessing of Your Word and the privilege of hearing it. Help us, Lord, to not only hear but to obey Your commands joyfully. Guide us in aligning our lives with Your will so that we may experience the fullness of Your blessings. In Jesus’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.

Blessed, Compassion, Kindness / Gentleness

Remembering Better Days: Job’s Reflection on Past Blessings (Job 29)

Have you ever found yourself reminiscing about better days, longing for the joys and blessings of the past?

In Job 29, we encounter Job’s poignant reflection on the prosperity and favor he once enjoyed.

Join us as we journey through this chapter and explore Job’s heartfelt recollection of better times and the lessons it offers us today.

Reconnect: In the preceding chapters of Job, we witnessed Job’s anguished lamentations and his contentious exchanges with his friends, who accuse him of wrongdoing. However, in Job 29, we encounter a shift in tone as Job reflects on the blessings and honor he once experienced.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 29

Job’s Past Was Glorious

      1And Job again took up his discourse and said,

      2“Oh that I were as in months gone by,
As in the days when God watched over me;

      3When His lamp shone over my head,
And by His light I walked through darkness;

      4As I was in the prime of my days,
When the friendship of God was over my tent;

      5When the Almighty was yet with me,
And my children were around me;

      6When my steps were bathed in butter,
And the rock poured out for me streams of oil!

      7“When I went out to the gate of the city,
When I took my seat in the square,

      8The young men saw me and hid themselves,
And the old men arose and stood.

      9“The princes stopped talking
And put their hands on their mouths;

      10The voice of the nobles was hushed,
And their tongue stuck to their palate.

      11“For when the ear heard, it called me blessed,
And when the eye saw, it gave witness of me,

      12Because I delivered the poor who cried for help,
And the orphan who had no helper.

      13“The blessing of the one ready to perish came upon me,
And I made the widow’s heart sing for joy.

      14“I put on righteousness, and it clothed me;
My justice was like a robe and a turban.

      15“I was eyes to the blind
And feet to the lame.

      16“I was a father to the needy,
And I investigated the case which I did not know.

      17“I broke the jaws of the wicked
And snatched the prey from his teeth.

      18“Then I thought, ‘I shall die in my nest,
And I shall multiply my days as the sand.

      19‘My root is spread out to the waters,
And dew lies all night on my branch.

      20‘My glory is ever new with me,
And my bow is renewed in my hand.’

      21“To me they listened and waited,
And kept silent for my counsel.

      22“After my words they did not speak again,
And my speech dropped on them.

      23“They waited for me as for the rain,
And opened their mouth as for the spring rain.

      24“I smiled on them when they did not believe,
And the light of my face they did not cast down.

      25“I chose a way for them and sat as chief,
And dwelt as a king among the troops,
As one who comforted the mourners.

Summary Key Points:

  1. The Glorious Past (Job 29:1-10): Job begins by reminiscing about the days when God’s favor shone brightly upon him. He recalls the respect and admiration he received from his community, describing how he was esteemed as a leader and a source of counsel and comfort for the needy. Job fondly remembers the prosperity and security he enjoyed, feeling as though God’s lamp shone upon his head and guided his steps through the darkness.
  2. A Life of Compassion and Justice (Job 29:11-17): Job continues his reflection by recounting the acts of compassion and justice he performed during his days of prosperity. He describes how he championed the cause of the oppressed and defended the rights of the vulnerable, earning him the praise and gratitude of those he helped. Job attributes his ability to administer justice to God’s guidance and blessing upon his life.
  3. Honored and Respected (Job 29:18-25): In the final section of the chapter, Job reflects on the honor and respect he received from his peers and elders. He describes how his wisdom and counsel were sought after by leaders and dignitaries, and how he was regarded as a father to the needy and an advocate for the marginalized. Despite his current afflictions, Job longs for the restoration of his former glory and the return of God’s favor upon his life.

Call to Action:

As we ponder Job’s reflection on past blessings in Job 29, let’s consider how we can apply its lessons to our own lives:

  1. Gratitude for God’s Blessings: Take time to reflect on the blessings and favor God has bestowed upon you in the past. Cultivate a heart of gratitude for His provision, protection, and guidance throughout your life’s journey.
  2. Compassion and Justice: Follow Job’s example of compassion and justice by advocating for the oppressed and defending the rights of the vulnerable in your community. Seek opportunities to extend a helping hand to those in need and to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.
  3. Seeking Restoration: Like Job, trust in God’s faithfulness and goodness, even in the midst of trials and adversity. Pray for restoration and renewal in areas of your life where you have experienced loss or suffering, trusting that God is able to turn your mourning into dancing and your sorrow into joy.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the lessons we learn from Job’s reflection on past blessings in Job 29. Help us to cultivate hearts of gratitude for your provision and guidance in our lives. Empower us to be agents of compassion and justice in our communities, advocating for the oppressed and defending the rights of the vulnerable. Grant us faith to trust in your faithfulness and goodness, even in the midst of trials and adversity. May we always find our hope and restoration in you. In Jesus’ name, we pray. 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.

Blessed, Fear / Reverence for God, Learning To Pray Effectively, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Psalms

A Call for Blessings and Praise (Psalm 67)

Have you ever pondered the universal longing for blessings, not just for yourself, but for all of humanity?

In Psalm 67, we find a heartfelt plea for God’s blessings to be poured out on all nations.

Join us as we delve into this beautiful psalm, exploring the significance of seeking blessings not only for ourselves but for the entire world.

Exploring the Context: Psalm 67 is a brief yet profound psalm that emphasizes the universal scope of God’s blessings. It is a plea for God’s favor and grace to shine upon all nations, inviting them to experience His salvation. This psalm reminds us that God’s blessings are not meant to be hoarded but generously shared with the world.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Psalm 67

The Nations Exhorted to Praise God.

For the choir director; with stringed instruments. A Psalm. A Song.

     1God be gracious to us and bless us,
And cause His face to shine upon us—

Selah.

      2That Your way may be known on the earth,
Your salvation among all nations.

      3Let the peoples praise You, O God;
Let all the peoples praise You.

      4Let the nations be glad and sing for joy;
For You will judge the peoples with uprightness
And guide the nations on the earth.

Selah.

      5Let the peoples praise You, O God;
Let all the peoples praise You.

      6The earth has yielded its produce;
God, our God, blesses us.

      7God blesses us,
That all the ends of the earth may fear Him.

Summary Key Points:

  1. A Plea for God’s Blessings: The psalm begins with a heartfelt plea for God’s grace and blessings. The psalmist implores God to be gracious and bless us, recognizing that divine favor is the source of all goodness.
  2. A Universal Focus: What sets Psalm 67 apart is its universal perspective. It goes beyond personal blessings and asks for God’s face to shine upon all nations. The psalmist desires that all peoples and nations would come to know God’s salvation.
  3. A Call to Praise: The psalmist understands that when God blesses us, it’s not just for our benefit but for His glory. As recipients of His blessings, we are called to praise Him joyfully and make His ways known among the nations.
  4. God’s Righteous Judgment: The psalm concludes by acknowledging God as the righteous Judge of all nations. His guidance ensures that justice and equity prevail, bringing harmony to a world in need of His guidance.

Call to Action:

As we meditate on Psalm 67, let’s embrace these key takeaways:

  1. Prayer for Global Blessings: Consider incorporating prayers for the well-being of all nations into your daily routine. Pray for peace, justice, and salvation to reach every corner of the world.
  2. Share God’s Blessings: Reflect on the blessings you’ve received and find ways to share them with others. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, generosity, or spreading the message of God’s love, let’s be conduits of His blessings.
  3. Praise and Gratitude: Take time to praise God for His abundant blessings in your life. Recognize that every good gift comes from Him and express your gratitude through worship and thanksgiving.
  4. Engage in Dialogue: Engage in meaningful discussions with friends and family about the importance of seeking blessings not only for ourselves but for the entire world. Share your thoughts in the comments below to continue the conversation.

Let this reflection on Psalm 67 inspire us to be agents of God’s blessings, sharing His love and grace with a world in need.

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.

Blessed, Curse, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Obeying God

Obedience or Disobedience (to God), Which Will You Choose?

God is pleased when we obey Him. He is not pleased when He repeatedly sends messengers that are ignored or rejected. He wants us as His people to obey His instructions and draw near to Him.

There are consequences both for obedience and for disobedience. Which will you choose?

Jeremiah 35

The Rechabites’ Obedience

      1The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD in the days of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah, king of Judah, saying, 2“Go to the house of the Rechabites and speak to them, and bring them into the house of the LORD, into one of the chambers, and give them wine to drink.” 3Then I took Jaazaniah the son of Jeremiah, son of Habazziniah, and his brothers and all his sons and the whole house of the Rechabites, 4and I brought them into the house of the LORD, into the chamber of the sons of Hanan the son of Igdaliah, the man of God, which was near the chamber of the officials, which was above the chamber of Maaseiah the son of Shallum, the doorkeeper. 5Then I set before the men of the house of the Rechabites pitchers full of wine and cups; and I said to them, “Drink wine!” 6But they said, “We will not drink wine, for Jonadab the son of Rechab, our father, commanded us, saying, ‘You shall not drink wine, you or your sons, forever. 7‘You shall not build a house, and you shall not sow seed and you shall not plant a vineyard or own one; but in tents you shall dwell all your days, that you may live many days in the land where you sojourn.’ 8“We have obeyed the voice of Jonadab the son of Rechab, our father, in all that he commanded us, not to drink wine all our days, we, our wives, our sons or our daughters, 9nor to build ourselves houses to dwell in; and we do not have vineyard or field or seed. 10“We have only dwelt in tents, and have obeyed and have done according to all that Jonadab our father commanded us. 11“But when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up against the land, we said, ‘Come and let us go to Jerusalem before the army of the Chaldeans and before the army of the Arameans.’ So we have dwelt in Jerusalem.”

Judah Rebuked

      12Then the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah, saying, 13“Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, ‘Go and say to the men of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, “Will you not receive instruction by listening to My words?” declares the LORD. 14“The words of Jonadab the son of Rechab, which he commanded his sons not to drink wine, are observed. So they do not drink wine to this day, for they have obeyed their father’s command. But I have spoken to you again and again; yet you have not listened to Me. 15“Also I have sent to you all My servants the prophets, sending them again and again, saying: ‘Turn now every man from his evil way and amend your deeds, and do not go after other gods to worship them. Then you will dwell in the land which I have given to you and to your forefathers; but you have not inclined your ear or listened to Me. 16‘Indeed, the sons of Jonadab the son of Rechab have observed the command of their father which he commanded them, but this people has not listened to Me.’”’ 17“Therefore thus says the LORD, the God of hosts, the God of Israel, ‘Behold, I am bringing on Judah and on all the inhabitants of Jerusalem all the disaster that I have pronounced against them; because I spoke to them but they did not listen, and I have called them but they did not answer.’”

      18Then Jeremiah said to the house of the Rechabites, “Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, ‘Because you have obeyed the command of Jonadab your father, kept all his commands and done according to all that he commanded you; 19therefore thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, “Jonadab the son of Rechab shall not lack a man to stand before Me always.”’”

We each have a choice to make about how completely we will submit to and pursue God and live according to His ways. Often we may not realize it, but there is farther He wants us to go in obeying Him. Keep a humble heart and a willing mind and a teachable spirit. Study His word and apply it in your life. Ask God to show you where there is more for you to do in pursuing Him.

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.

Blessed, Help / Serve Others, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Prayer, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Suffering / Adversity

Draw Near To God in Difficult Times

We all have figured out by now that we face difficult times while we are on this earth. However, what a great step we are making in drawing near to Yahweh when we turn to Him for help with praise and thanksgiving even during the hard times. He is our Father and we can share what is on our hearts with Him honestly and then turn our attitude toward one of praise and thanksgiving toward Him.

Psalm 41

The Psalmist in Sickness Complains of Enemies and False Friends.

For the choir director. A Psalm of David.

      1How blessed is he who considers the helpless;
The LORD will deliver him in a day of trouble.

      2The LORD will protect him and keep him alive,
And he shall be called blessed upon the earth;
And do not give him over to the desire of his enemies.

      3The LORD will sustain him upon his sickbed;
In his illness, You restore him to health.

      4As for me, I said, “O LORD, be gracious to me;
Heal my soul, for I have sinned against You.”

      5My enemies speak evil against me,
“When will he die, and his name perish?”

      6And when he comes to see me, he speaks falsehood;
His heart gathers wickedness to itself;
When he goes outside, he tells it.

      7All who hate me whisper together against me;
Against me they devise my hurt, saying,

      8“A wicked thing is poured out upon him,
That when he lies down, he will not rise up again.”

      9Even my close friend in whom I trusted,
Who ate my bread,
Has lifted up his heel against me.

      10But You, O LORD, be gracious to me and raise me up,
That I may repay them.

      11By this I know that You are pleased with me,
Because my enemy does not shout in triumph over me.

      12As for me, You uphold me in my integrity,
And You set me in Your presence forever.

      13Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel,
From everlasting to everlasting.
Amen and Amen.

Trust in God even when things are not going well. Share your heart openly and honestly, but then remember to thank Him and praise Him even before the situation is fully resolved in your eyes. The value of our relationship with our Creator is so much more than just an escape from hard times. He helps us in our distress, sometimes to escape it and sometimes to endure it and learn from it. He loves us as a Father. At a minimum, we should love Him back as a little child does a loving father… even if we do not understand all that we are going through. Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you.

James 4:8a

 8Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.

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

Blessed, Curse, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Obeying God, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God

God’s Favor and Discipline: The Choice Between Blessing and Cursing

Not all among God’s people carry favor with Him. Many have turned away from Him and His instructions and go their own way.  All the while, they hope God will protect them even while they yet disobey Him. There are times when God Himself comes against His people to discipline them. He offers life or death (Jeremiah 21 verses 8-9 below). He offers blessing or cursing (obedience or disobedience).  More often than we think, we get to choose based on our actions and obedience.

Jeremiah 21

Jeremiah’s Message for Zedekiah

      1The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD when King Zedekiah sent to him Pashhur the son of Malchijah, and Zephaniah the priest, the son of Maaseiah, saying, 2“Please inquire of the LORD on our behalf, for Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon is warring against us; perhaps the LORD will deal with us according to all His wonderful acts, so that the enemy will withdraw from us.”

      3Then Jeremiah said to them, “You shall say to Zedekiah as follows: 4‘Thus says the LORD God of Israel, “Behold, I am about to turn back the weapons of war which are in your hands, with which you are warring against the king of Babylon and the Chaldeans who are besieging you outside the wall; and I will gather them into the center of this city. 5“I Myself will war against you with an outstretched hand and a mighty arm, even in anger and wrath and great indignation. 6“I will also strike down the inhabitants of this city, both man and beast; they will die of a great pestilence. 7“Then afterwards,” declares the LORD, “I will give over Zedekiah king of Judah and his servants and the people, even those who survive in this city from the pestilence, the sword and the famine, into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of their foes and into the hand of those who seek their lives; and he will strike them down with the edge of the sword. He will not spare them nor have pity nor compassion.”’

      8“You shall also say to this people, ‘Thus says the LORD, “Behold, I set before you the way of life and the way of death. 9“He who dwells in this city will die by the sword and by famine and by pestilence; but he who goes out and falls away to the Chaldeans who are besieging you will live, and he will have his own life as booty. 10“For I have set My face against this city for harm and not for good,” declares the LORD. “It will be given into the hand of the king of Babylon and he will burn it with fire.”’

      11“Then say to the household of the king of Judah, ‘Hear the word of the LORD,

12O house of David, thus says the LORD:
“Administer justice every morning;
And deliver the person who has been robbed from the power of his oppressor,
That My wrath may not go forth like fire
And burn with none to extinguish it,
Because of the evil of their deeds.

      13“Behold, I am against you, O valley dweller,
O rocky plain,” declares the LORD,
“You men who say, ‘Who will come down against us?
Or who will enter into our habitations?’

      14“But I will punish you according to the results of your deeds,” declares the LORD,
“And I will kindle a fire in its forest
That it may devour all its environs.”’”

It is not enough to just ask God to bless you and protect you while remaining in sin. Truly turn your heart towards Him, repent, and seek Him diligently.

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.

Blessed, Faith / Trusting God, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Love, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Psalms

How Blessed Is He Whose Sin Is Covered!

How natural is it for a child to try to deny that they have done wrong? They are focused solely on avoiding correction and discipline and it that approach can get in the way of learning and growing. As a child, I once wrote on the back dash of our family car in orange crayon. When it was discovered by my parents and they asked about it… I denied it was me. I had written my name. Needless to say they figured it out easily. I had compounded my mistakes by adding lying to the original drawing on the dashboard.

As foolish as this sounds, it is much like that when we try to hide our sins from God. He already knows what we did. It is just as foolish to rationalize to God (and ourselves) to justify our wrong actions. He already knows our motives.

Just like a loving father, He wants us to repent for our wrong actions, ask forgiveness and turn about to start doing the right things. He wants us to be brought back to right relationship with Him. God already made a way for us to be forgiven! We just need to accept the offer of forgiveness by grace through faith that God extends to us through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered!

Psalm 32

Blessedness of Forgiveness and of Trust in God.

     1How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven,
Whose sin is covered!

      2How blessed is the man to whom the LORD does not impute iniquity,
And in whose spirit there is no deceit!

      3When I kept silent about my sin, my body wasted away
Through my groaning all day long.

      4For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me;
My vitality was drained away as with the fever heat of summer.

Selah.

      5I acknowledged my sin to You,
And my iniquity I did not hide;
I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD”;
And You forgave the guilt of my sin.

Selah.

      6Therefore, let everyone who is godly pray to You in a time when You may be found;
Surely in a flood of great waters they will not reach him.

      7You are my hiding place; You preserve me from trouble;
You surround me with songs of deliverance.

Selah.

      8I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go;
I will counsel you with My eye upon you.

      9Do not be as the horse or as the mule which have no understanding,
Whose trappings include bit and bridle to hold them in check,
Otherwise they will not come near to you.

      10Many are the sorrows of the wicked,
But he who trusts in the LORD, lovingkindness shall surround him.

      11Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous ones;
And shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart.

Rejoice indeed all who are upright in heart! Our loving Father made a way to forgive us and allow us to remain in close relationship with Him. We do not need to live forever under the guilt of the wrong things we have done and the wrong motivations we have felt. We turn away from wrong, ask forgiveness and start doing things God’s way. Jesus came to set us free from our own sin!

Reflect on your life and consider some of the mistakes you have made. Praise God that all of those have already been forgiven if you have turned from that wrong behavior, asked Jesus to forgive you, and started doing things God’s way. You no longer carry that guilt. Jesus carried it for you… to the cross.

Are there areas in which you have not yet turned away from wrong behavior and asked forgiveness… where you have not yet started doing things God’s way? Come humbly before God right now. Do not wait for later today or tomorrow.

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