All posts by John (HFJ Director)

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Is the Old Testament Relevant Today?, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God, Traditions / Holidays

Preparing Our Hearts for Yom Kippur: Reflective Scripture Readings

The period from Yom Teruah to Yom Kippur, often referred to as the Days of Awe, is a sacred time intended for deep reflection and repentance. As we approach Yom Kippur, it’s essential to come before God with a humble and contrite heart, acknowledging our sins and recognizing the profound gift of forgiveness offered through Yeshua.

“In these Days of Awe, let’s turn our hearts to Scripture, allowing God’s word to mold us and draw us nearer to Him.”

The Importance of Reflection:
Yom Kippur is not just about seeking forgiveness; it’s about recognizing the immense sacrifice Yeshua made on our behalf. It’s a day to celebrate the grace we’ve received—grace we could never earn. This holy day calls us to humility and gratitude, reminding us of the cost of our redemption.

Scripture Readings for Yom Kippur Preparation:
To enrich your observance of Yom Kippur, consider the following Scripture readings leading up to the day. These passages help set our minds on the themes of atonement, repentance, and God’s unfailing mercy:

Using Resources Wisely:
As you explore these scriptures, remember to discern between biblical instruction and traditional practices. While tradition can enrich our understanding, Scripture should always guide our observance:

 

  • JacobsTent.org is a fellowship that meets in Tennessee and live streams events for Moedim and regular Sabbath services weekly. It is more than just a study, but brings you in to be part of a fellowship worshipping and learning together.

Conclusion:
As we engage with these scriptures, let us approach Yom Kippur not with a spirit of fear but with a heart filled with gratitude for the grace and forgiveness that Yeshua has extended to us. Let this time be one of genuine reflection, leading to real change in our lives as we align more closely with God’s will.

Call to Action:
Begin your preparation for Yom Kippur today by choosing one or more scriptures from the list to study each day. Share insights with your family or study group, and come together to discuss how these truths impact your walk with Christ.

Closing Prayer:
Father, as we enter the solemn Days of Awe and approach Yom Kippur, we thank You for the forgiveness and new life found in Yeshua. Help us to study Your Word with open hearts and minds, ready to be transformed. Let us hold fast to what is scriptural, using tradition wisely to enhance our understanding but not to overshadow Your truth. Guide us in true repentance and lead us into a more profound relationship with You. 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.

Forgive Others / Seek Forgiveness, Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Repenting from Sin, Traditions / Holidays

Yom Kippur: A Day to Reflect, Repent, and Reconnect with God

“While many holidays today emphasize fun and festivity, Yom Kippur invites us to a profound solemnity and reflection on our spiritual state. It’s a day that strips away the distractions, calling us back to the heart of our faith.”

In the hustle of modern life, significant meanings behind many observances can become diluted. Thanksgiving, for example, has largely shifted from a solemn day of genuine gratitude to a day dominated by parades, football, and feasting. Similarly, Yom Kippur, a day set by God for atonement and humility, holds a crucial spiritual significance that often goes unappreciated.

The Essence of Yom Kippur:
Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is one of the most sacred days in the biblical calendar, emphasized in Leviticus 23:25-32. It’s a day ordained by God for self-examination, repentance, and reconciliation with Him. Unlike any other holiday, Yom Kippur demands total cessation of work and complete focus on our spiritual state, offering a chance to align more closely with God’s desires for our lives.

  • Sabbath of Solemn Rest: Yom Kippur is a Sabbath of complete rest, where no work is done, and the soul is humbled through fasting and prayer.
  • Call to Atonement: It is a time to reflect deeply on our sins and seek God’s forgiveness, facilitated by the sacrifice Yeshua made on our behalf, fulfilling the atonement once symbolized by the temple rituals.

Yeshua’s Fulfillment of Yom Kippur: Yeshua, our Messiah, did not abolish these holy days but fulfilled them in a way that deepens their meaning. His sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate atonement for our sins, bridging the gap that no human effort could span, as highlighted in Romans 3:10, reminding us of our universal need for divine grace.

  • Bridge to Righteousness: Just as none could jump across the Grand Canyon, none of us can achieve righteousness on our own. Yeshua acts as our bridge, fulfilling the law and granting us access to the Father through His grace.

Practical Observance Tips:

  • Focus on Scripture: Always validate traditions and additional practices against the Scriptures. Begin with the biblical text and understand the foundation before exploring traditional observances.
  • Community and Fellowship: Engage with communities like JacobsTent.org that observe these days with understanding and reverence.
  • Embrace Spiritual Growth: Allow Yom Kippur to be a step in your spiritual journey. Don’t worry about mastering all practices at once but grow in your observance year by year.

Resources for Further Study:

Conclusion: As we approach Yom Kippur, let us embrace this opportunity not just as a tradition but as a meaningful reflection on our personal relationship with God. Let this day be a time to renew our commitment to live according to His ways, thankful for the grace provided through Yeshua.

Call to Action: Commit to observing Yom Kippur this year with a heart open to God’s refining work in your life. Take time away from the usual distractions to reflect on His Word, repent, and pray for deeper communion with Him.

Closing Prayer: Father, as I observe Yom Kippur, I humbly come before You acknowledging my sins and seeking Your forgiveness. Thank You for the gift of atonement through Yeshua, who has reconciled me to You. Guide me in living a life that reflects this grace and leads others to Your truth. Strengthen Your church to embrace Your appointed times with wisdom and reverence. 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.

His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God

The Lamb Who Willingly Surrenders (John 18:1-14)

Jesus was not overpowered—He willingly gave Himself to fulfill the Father’s will.

Key Verse:
“So Jesus said to Peter, ‘Put the sword into the sheath; the cup which the Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?’” —John 18:11 NASB

Background Context:
After His prayer in John 17, Jesus crosses the Kidron Valley with His disciples to a garden—likely Gethsemane. Judas arrives with soldiers and officers to arrest Him. Yet rather than being overwhelmed, Jesus steps forward with authority, declaring “I am He.” The soldiers fall back at His words. He protects His disciples, fulfills prophecy, and rebukes Peter for resisting with violence. Jesus willingly surrenders, knowing He is walking into suffering according to the Father’s plan.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 18:1-14

Judas Betrays Jesus

      1When Jesus had spoken these words, He went forth with His disciples over the ravine of the Kidron, where there was a garden, in which He entered with His disciples. 2Now Judas also, who was betraying Him, knew the place, for Jesus had often met there with His disciples. 3Judas then, having received the Roman cohort and officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, came there with lanterns and torches and weapons. 4So Jesus, knowing all the things that were coming upon Him, went forth and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” 5They answered Him, “Jesus the Nazarene.” He said to them, “I am He.” And Judas also, who was betraying Him, was standing with them. 6So when He said to them, “I am He,” they drew back and fell to the ground. 7Therefore He again asked them, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus the Nazarene.” 8Jesus answered, “I told you that I am He; so if you seek Me, let these go their way,” 9to fulfill the word which He spoke, “Of those whom You have given Me I lost not one.” 10Simon Peter then, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s slave, and cut off his right ear; and the slave’s name was Malchus. 11So Jesus said to Peter, “Put the sword into the sheath; the cup which the Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?”

Jesus before the Priests

12So the Roman cohort and the commander and the officers of the Jews, arrested Jesus and bound Him, 13and led Him to Annas first; for he was father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. 14Now Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it was expedient for one man to die on behalf of the people.

Reflection on John 18:1–14:
This passage reminds us that Jesus’ arrest was not a tragedy of weakness but an act of obedience. Even in betrayal, He demonstrates divine authority—His declaration of identity makes armed soldiers stumble back. He ensures His disciples are spared, showing His shepherd’s care.

Peter’s impulsive use of the sword highlights human misunderstanding. He still thinks Jesus’ kingdom will advance by force. But Jesus redirects him: the cup of suffering must be accepted. God’s plan of redemption required His Son to be bound and led away like a lamb to the slaughter.

In this moment, we see both Jesus’ sovereignty and His submission. He is not a victim but the willing sacrifice who yields to the Father’s will for our salvation.

Application:
When trials come, do you resist with human strength like Peter, or submit to God’s will like Jesus? Sometimes obedience means accepting a cup we would rather avoid. But like Christ, we can trust the Father’s plan is good and necessary. His example calls us to faith, surrender, and courage even in the face of betrayal or suffering.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for the example of Jesus, who faced betrayal and suffering with courage and obedience. Teach me to trust Your plan when I face trials, not to fight in my own strength but to walk in faith. Help me to surrender my will to Yours, knowing that You work all things for Your glory and my salvation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Bitterness / Resentment, Blessed, Depression / Discouragement, Repenting from Sin

Bitterness or Repentance? (Genesis 27:30-46)

Without repentance, sorrow turns into bitterness—and bitterness into sin.

Key Verse:
“Esau said to his father, ‘Do you have only one blessing, my father? Bless me, even me also, O my father.’ So Esau lifted his voice and wept.” —Genesis 27:38 NASB

Background Context:
After Jacob receives Isaac’s blessing through deception, Esau returns and discovers what has happened. Isaac trembles, realizing God’s will has been accomplished despite his own intentions. Esau cries out for a blessing but receives only a word of hardship and servitude. Instead of repenting for despising his birthright earlier (Genesis 25) and his ungodly choices (Genesis 26), Esau hardens his heart. His grief turns to anger, and he plots to kill Jacob. Rebekah, fearful for Jacob’s life, urges him to flee to her brother Laban.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 27:30-46

The Stolen Blessing

      30Now it came about, as soon as Isaac had finished blessing Jacob, and Jacob had hardly gone out from the presence of Isaac his father, that Esau his brother came in from his hunting. 31Then he also made savory food, and brought it to his father; and he said to his father, “Let my father arise and eat of his son’s game, that you may bless me.” 32Isaac his father said to him, “Who are you?” And he said, “I am your son, your firstborn, Esau.” 33Then Isaac trembled violently, and said, “Who was he then that hunted game and brought it to me, so that I ate of all of it before you came, and blessed him? Yes, and he shall be blessed.” 34When Esau heard the words of his father, he cried out with an exceedingly great and bitter cry, and said to his father, “Bless me, even me also, O my father!” 35And he said, “Your brother came deceitfully and has taken away your blessing.” 36Then he said, “Is he not rightly named Jacob, for he has supplanted me these two times? He took away my birthright, and behold, now he has taken away my blessing.” And he said, “Have you not reserved a blessing for me?” 37But Isaac replied to Esau, “Behold, I have made him your master, and all his relatives I have given to him as servants; and with grain and new wine I have sustained him. Now as for you then, what can I do, my son?” 38Esau said to his father, “Do you have only one blessing, my father? Bless me, even me also, O my father.” So Esau lifted his voice and wept.

      39Then Isaac his father answered and said to him,
“Behold, away from the fertility of the earth shall be your dwelling,
And away from the dew of heaven from above.

      40“By your sword you shall live,
And your brother you shall serve;
But it shall come about when you become restless,
That you will break his yoke from your neck.”

      41So Esau bore a grudge against Jacob because of the blessing with which his father had blessed him; and Esau said to himself, “The days of mourning for my father are near; then I will kill my brother Jacob.” 42Now when the words of her elder son Esau were reported to Rebekah, she sent and called her younger son Jacob, and said to him, “Behold your brother Esau is consoling himself concerning you by planning to kill you. 43“Now therefore, my son, obey my voice, and arise, flee to Haran, to my brother Laban! 44“Stay with him a few days, until your brother’s fury subsides, 45until your brother’s anger against you subsides and he forgets what you did to him. Then I will send and get you from there. Why should I be bereaved of you both in one day?”

      46Rebekah said to Isaac, “I am tired of living because of the daughters of Heth; if Jacob takes a wife from the daughters of Heth, like these, from the daughters of the land, what good will my life be to me?”

Reflection on Genesis 27:30–46:
This passage shows the devastating ripple effects of sin within a family. Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, and Esau each contributed: favoritism, scheming, deception, and contempt for God’s ways. The result is division and heartbreak.

Esau’s response is especially telling. He weeps bitterly, but his sorrow is not repentance. Hebrews 12:16–17 later warns that Esau, though he sought the blessing with tears, found no place for true repentance. His heart remained fixed on blaming Jacob, not acknowledging his own rejection of God’s covenant. Instead of humbling himself, he nurtured hatred and planned murder.

Isaac, however, trembled greatly—not because he was fooled, but because he realized that God’s sovereign will had been carried out despite his own desire to bless Esau. In that moment, Isaac stopped resisting and confirmed Jacob’s blessing (v. 33).

The weight of this scene reminds us that God’s blessings are not casual. To despise them is to despise Him. And without repentance, bitterness consumes us and leads only to more sin.

Application:
When you experience loss or disappointment, do you respond like Esau with blame and bitterness, or like Isaac with surrender to God’s will? True repentance requires us to take responsibility for our choices and turn back to God. Let Esau’s tears be a warning—sorrow without repentance produces only more sin. Choose instead to humble yourself and trust God’s purposes, even when they overturn your own plans.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, protect me from bitterness when things do not go my way. Help me to recognize and repent of my own sins rather than shifting blame to others. Give me the humility to accept Your will, even when it differs from my desires. Teach me to trust in Your sovereignty and to walk in faith, not resentment. 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.

Money / Finances / Wealth, Proverbs (Wisdom & Folly), Unteachable / Foolish, Wise

Building on a Foundation of Wisdom (Proverbs 24)

What foundation are you building your life upon today?

Key Verse:
“By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; and by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” —Proverbs 24:3–4 NASB

Background Context:
Proverbs 24 belongs to the collection of “sayings of the wise.” It highlights the difference between the righteous and the wicked, encouraging diligence, justice, and trust in the Lord. Verses 3–4 use the imagery of building a house as a metaphor for building a life, family, or community. The true strength and beauty of what is built does not come from wealth or status but from wisdom, understanding, and knowledge rooted in God’s truth.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Proverbs 24

Precepts and Warnings

1Do not be envious of evil men,
Nor desire to be with them;

2For their minds devise violence,
And their lips talk of trouble.

3By wisdom a house is built,
And by understanding it is established;

4And by knowledge the rooms are filled
With all precious and pleasant riches.

5A wise man is strong,
And a man of knowledge increases power.

6For by wise guidance you will wage war,
And in abundance of counselors there is victory.

7Wisdom is too exalted for a fool,
He does not open his mouth in the gate.

8One who plans to do evil,
Men will call a schemer.

9The devising of folly is sin,
And the scoffer is an abomination to men.

10If you are slack in the day of distress,
Your strength is limited.

11Deliver those who are being taken away to death,
And those who are staggering to slaughter, Oh hold them back.

12If you say, “See, we did not know this,”
Does He not consider it who weighs the hearts?
And does He not know it who keeps your soul?
And will He not render to man according to his work?

13My son, eat honey, for it is good,
Yes, the honey from the comb is sweet to your taste;

14Know that wisdom is thus for your soul;
If you find it, then there will be a future,
And your hope will not be cut off.

15Do not lie in wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous;
Do not destroy his resting place;

16For a righteous man falls seven times, and rises again,
But the wicked stumble in time of calamity.

17Do not rejoice when your enemy falls,
And do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles;

18Or the LORD will see it and be displeased,
And turn His anger away from him.

19Do not fret because of evildoers
Or be envious of the wicked;

20For there will be no future for the evil man;
The lamp of the wicked will be put out.

21My son, fear the LORD and the king;
Do not associate with those who are given to change,

22For their calamity will rise suddenly,
And who knows the ruin that comes from both of them?

23These also are sayings of the wise.
To show partiality in judgment is not good.

24He who says to the wicked, “You are righteous,”
Peoples will curse him, nations will abhor him;

25But to those who rebuke the wicked will be delight,
And a good blessing will come upon them.

26He kisses the lips
Who gives a right answer.

27Prepare your work outside
And make it ready for yourself in the field;
Afterwards, then, build your house.

28Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause,
And do not deceive with your lips.

29Do not say, “Thus I shall do to him as he has done to me;
I will render to the man according to his work.”

30I passed by the field of the sluggard
And by the vineyard of the man lacking sense,

31And behold, it was completely overgrown with thistles;
Its surface was covered with nettles,
And its stone wall was broken down.

32When I saw, I reflected upon it;
I looked, and received instruction.

33“A little sleep, a little slumber,
A little folding of the hands to rest,”

34Then your poverty will come as a robber
And your want like an armed man.

Reflection on Proverbs 24:3–4:
A house doesn’t just appear — it takes planning, effort, and the right materials. Likewise, the life of faith is built slowly and carefully. Wisdom provides the foundation, understanding gives stability, and knowledge fills the “rooms” with richness. Without these, life collapses under pressure.

This proverb reminds us that what we build spiritually, relationally, or vocationally will only endure if it is constructed on God’s wisdom. Jesus echoed this in Matthew 7 when He described the wise man building on rock rather than sand. A life rooted in God’s truth may take more patience and perseverance, but it will withstand storms.

Application:
Consider what you are building right now — in your character, your family, your work, and your faith. Are you using the materials of wisdom, understanding, and knowledge from God’s Word, or relying on quick fixes and shortcuts? Ask the Lord to help you strengthen the weak walls in your “house” and to establish your life firmly on His truth.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the reminder that wisdom, understanding, and knowledge are the true foundation of a strong life. Forgive me when I try to build in my own strength or with shallow materials. Teach me to seek Your wisdom daily and to establish my life on Your truth so that what I build will endure and reflect Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

All Powerful / King of All, Courage / Fear, Guide, Merciful, Provider, Psalms, Strong in Our Weakness

The Shepherd Who Restores (Psalms 23)

Where do you turn when your soul feels weary and burdened?

Key Verse:
“The Lord is my shepherd, I will not be in need.” —Psalm 23:1 NASB

Background Context:
Psalm 23, written by David, draws from his own experience as a shepherd. In this psalm, David presents the Lord as the ultimate Shepherd who provides, guides, protects, and comforts His people. The psalm begins with imagery of green pastures and still waters, describing God’s care and restoration. It then moves into the valley of deep darkness, showing His presence even in danger, and concludes with a confident hope in His goodness and eternal dwelling.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 23

1The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want.

2He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters.

3He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

4Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You have anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows.

6Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Reflection on Psalm 23:
This psalm reveals God’s intimate care for His people. Like a shepherd, He knows us by name, provides for our needs, and restores our souls. When life leads us through dark valleys, His presence gives us courage. Notice that the language shifts from talking about God (“He leads… He restores…”) to speaking to God directly (“You are with me; Your rod and staff, they comfort me”). This personal closeness is at the heart of trust.

The closing promise reminds us that God’s goodness and mercy are not temporary but will pursue us all our days. For believers in Christ, this psalm points us to the ultimate Shepherd, Jesus, who laid down His life for the sheep (John 10:11) and secures for us an eternal dwelling in the Father’s house.

Summary Key Points:

  • God is a personal Shepherd who provides, restores, and guides.

  • His presence gives courage in the darkest valleys.

  • His goodness and mercy pursue us, securing our eternal hope.

Application:
Reflect on an area of your life where you feel burdened or anxious. Read Psalm 23 slowly, pausing after each verse to let its truth sink in. Thank God for being your Shepherd, and ask Him to restore your soul and lead you in His paths today.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for being my Shepherd who provides for my needs, restores my soul, and walks with me through every valley. Help me to trust Your guidance and find peace in Your presence. May Your goodness and mercy remind me of Your faithfulness each day, until I dwell in Your house forever. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Is the Old Testament Relevant Today?, Traditions / Holidays

Rediscovering Our Spiritual Seasons: Embracing YHWH’s Appointed Times

Have you ever paused to think about the holidays we celebrate and where they come from? As the leaves begin to turn and we enter the season of fall moedim, it’s a perfect time to explore the rich tapestry of God’s appointed festivals and what they truly signify.

Raised in a Christian household, we attended church regularly but didn’t delve deeply into the Bible’s teachings or question the cultural norms that shaped our celebrations. Like many, I grew up celebrating holidays that, unbeknownst to me, had more to do with pagan traditions than the commands of YHWH. It was only later that I discovered the moedim, the times appointed by God for special remembrance and celebration, which opened a new chapter in my spiritual journey.

Awakening to the Moedim: YHWH’s appointed times, detailed in Leviticus 23 and throughout Scripture, offer a profound connection to the past deeds and future promises of God. These are not just historical commemorations but are vibrant celebrations of what Christ has fulfilled and what He promises to complete upon His return. These appointed times are not exclusively Jewish; they are divine markers meant for all who follow YHWH, offering us a rhythm of worship distinct from the secular calendar.

The Significance of Each Season: Each moed, from Passover to Sukkot, holds deep Messianic significance, pointing both to the first coming of Yeshua and His glorious return. These times are designed to draw us closer to God, enriching our understanding and appreciation of His sovereign plan.

  • Passover (Pesach): Celebrates Yeshua’s atoning death
  • Feast of Weeks (Shavuot): Commemorates the giving of the Torah and the Holy Spirit
  • Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah): Marks a time of reflection and renewal
  • Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur): A solemn day of atonement and reconciliation
  • Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot): Rejoices in God’s provision and foreshadows the coming Kingdom

Practical Steps to Celebrate: While the absence of the temple and priesthood changes how we can observe these feasts, their spiritual essence remains intact. Start by learning the historical and prophetic nuances of these days. Engage with them through prayer, scripture reading, and community fellowship.

Resources to Explore:

Call to Action: As we approach Yom Teruah and the rest of the fall appointed times, I encourage you to join me and countless others in rediscovering these divine appointments. Whether through online resources, community worship, or personal study, let’s embrace these celebrations as opportunities to grow closer to YHWH and each other.

Closing Prayer: Father, thank You for the beauty and depth of Your appointed times. As we learn and grow in understanding of these holy days, draw us nearer to Your heart and deeper into the rhythms of Your grace. Help us to celebrate Your moedim with joy and reverence, using these times to teach our families and strengthen our communities. In the name of Yeshua, 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.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Holy / Set Apart, Is the Old Testament Relevant Today?, Traditions / Holidays

The Call of the Shofar: Rediscovering Yom Teruah

Have you ever considered that God’s calendar holds appointments most of us have never kept?

Growing up in a Christian household in the United States, the biblical holy days Yahweh established for His people were largely absent from our teachings. As Christians, we often overlook Old Testament instructions, deeming them outdated. Yet, these appointed times are not obsolete; they hold deep significance and can bring us closer to God.

Discovering Yom Teruah
Yom Teruah, often known as Rosh Hashanah in modern times, marks the beginning of the civil year on the Hebrew calendar. This day of shouting and blasting of trumpets is more than a cultural celebration; it’s a spiritual marker designed by God as outlined in Leviticus 23:23–32. Scripture gives us only a few direct instructions for Yom Teruah, inviting us to explore its meaning through the rest of the Word and in tradition.

Why It Matters Today

  1. A Call to Awareness: Yom Teruah serves as a spiritual alarm clock, awakening us to self-reflection and repentance in preparation for Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.

  2. Prophetic Undertones: For followers of Christ, the trumpets symbolize not only historical observance but also the anticipation of Christ’s return. The blasts are a reminder to live in readiness, aligning our lives with God’s commandments.

  3. Symbolism of the Shofar: The shofar, or ram’s horn, has deep biblical roots. Its sound is a powerful call to action, a reminder to forsake sin and embrace God’s ways.

How to Begin Celebrating

  1. Begin with Scripture: Always measure traditions and interpretations against the Word of God.

  2. Join a Community: Participate in gatherings, whether online or in person, like those at JacobsTent.org, to experience communal worship and learning.

  3. Embrace Imperfection: God looks at the heart more than the checklist. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect at the start—choose a day to observe and refine your understanding each year. (Ecclesiastes 11:4)

Resources to Grow

Fellowship Opportunity
JacobsTent.org is a fellowship that meets in Tennessee and live streams events for the moedim and regular Sabbath services weekly. It is more than just a study—it invites you into genuine worship and community.

Conclusion
Yom Teruah is an invitation to reconnect with the roots of our faith, celebrating God’s sovereignty and our place in His plan. When you hear the sound of the shofar—or even imagine it—let it stir your heart to readiness. Begin observing Yom Teruah this year and allow God to awaken your spirit.

Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your appointed times that draw us closer to You. As we prepare to observe Yom Teruah, open our hearts to the lessons You have for us. Help us to hear Your call and respond with obedience and joy. May our observance be a testament to our desire to know You more and walk in Your ways. Amen.

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

John Golda

All Knowing, All Powerful / King of All, Blessed, His Ways Are Not Our Ways

God’s Blessing Cannot Be Fooled (Genesis 27:1-29)

When people fail, God’s purposes still stand—and His blessing falls on those who honor Him.

Key Verse:
“See, the smell of my son is like the smell of a field which the LORD has blessed; now may God give you of the dew of heaven, and of the fatness of the earth, and an abundance of grain and new wine.” —Genesis 27:27–28 NASB

Background Context:
To understand this account, we must recall what came before. In Genesis 25, Esau despised his birthright and traded it to Jacob for a single meal. In Genesis 26, he continued to drift from God by marrying Hittite wives, a people known for detestable pagan practices. His choices reveal a heart set against God long before this blessing scene. Thus, when the blessing passes to Jacob, it is not because God was deceived—it is because God had already chosen Jacob as the heir of His covenant promise.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 27:1-29

Jacob’s Deception

      1Now it came about, when Isaac was old and his eyes were too dim to see, that he called his older son Esau and said to him, “My son.” And he said to him, “Here I am.” 2Isaac said, “Behold now, I am old and I do not know the day of my death. 3“Now then, please take your gear, your quiver and your bow, and go out to the field and hunt game for me; 4and prepare a savory dish for me such as I love, and bring it to me that I may eat, so that my soul may bless you before I die.”

      5Rebekah was listening while Isaac spoke to his son Esau. So when Esau went to the field to hunt for game to bring home, 6Rebekah said to her son Jacob, “Behold, I heard your father speak to your brother Esau, saying, 7‘Bring me some game and prepare a savory dish for me, that I may eat, and bless you in the presence of the LORD before my death.’ 8“Now therefore, my son, listen to me as I command you. 9“Go now to the flock and bring me two choice young goats from there, that I may prepare them as a savory dish for your father, such as he loves. 10“Then you shall bring it to your father, that he may eat, so that he may bless you before his death.” 11Jacob answered his mother Rebekah, “Behold, Esau my brother is a hairy man and I am a smooth man. 12“Perhaps my father will feel me, then I will be as a deceiver in his sight, and I will bring upon myself a curse and not a blessing.” 13But his mother said to him, “Your curse be on me, my son; only obey my voice, and go, get them for me.” 14So he went and got them, and brought them to his mother; and his mother made savory food such as his father loved. 15Then Rebekah took the best garments of Esau her elder son, which were with her in the house, and put them on Jacob her younger son. 16And she put the skins of the young goats on his hands and on the smooth part of his neck. 17She also gave the savory food and the bread, which she had made, to her son Jacob.

      18Then he came to his father and said, “My father.” And he said, “Here I am. Who are you, my son?” 19Jacob said to his father, “I am Esau your firstborn; I have done as you told me. Get up, please, sit and eat of my game, that you may bless me.” 20Isaac said to his son, “How is it that you have it so quickly, my son?” And he said, “Because the LORD your God caused it to happen to me.” 21Then Isaac said to Jacob, “Please come close, that I may feel you, my son, whether you are really my son Esau or not.” 22So Jacob came close to Isaac his father, and he felt him and said, “The voice is the voice of Jacob, but the hands are the hands of Esau.” 23He did not recognize him, because his hands were hairy like his brother Esau’s hands; so he blessed him. 24And he said, “Are you really my son Esau?” And he said, “I am.” 25So he said, “Bring it to me, and I will eat of my son’s game, that I may bless you.” And he brought it to him, and he ate; he also brought him wine and he drank. 26Then his father Isaac said to him, “Please come close and kiss me, my son.”

27So he came close and kissed him; and when he smelled the smell of his garments, he blessed him and said,
“See, the smell of my son
Is like the smell of a field which the LORD has blessed;

      28Now may God give you of the dew of heaven,
And of the fatness of the earth,
And an abundance of grain and new wine;

      29May peoples serve you,
And nations bow down to you;
Be master of your brothers,
And may your mother’s sons bow down to you.
Cursed be those who curse you,
And blessed be those who bless you.”

Reflection on Genesis 27:1–29:
This chapter shows us both human failure and God’s sovereignty. Isaac favored Esau, Rebekah favored Jacob, and their divided household fueled strife. Instead of seeking God together, each pursued their own plans, and the family fractured under favoritism and deceit.

Esau, having rejected his birthright earlier, now blames Jacob instead of taking responsibility. Without repentance, his bitterness grows, and he plots to kill his brother. Jacob, for his part, secures the blessing but does so through deception, bringing consequences that would later drive him into exile and fracture his relationship with Esau.

And yet, God’s purpose prevails. The blessing given to Jacob is not the result of “fooling God.” Rather, it fulfills what God had already spoken: “the older shall serve the younger” (Genesis 25:23). The blessing carried immense weight for all involved, because it represented God’s covenant promise—not merely material prosperity, but participation in His redemptive plan.

Application:
This passage reminds us of the seriousness of God’s blessings and the danger of despising them. Do you treat God’s promises and commands as priceless, or do you undervalue them like Esau? It also challenges us to avoid the favoritism, blame-shifting, and scheming seen in this family. God’s plan does not need our deception to succeed. What He desires is faith, obedience, and repentance.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You that Your purposes prevail even when we fail. Guard my heart from despising Your blessings or treating them lightly. Help me to take responsibility for my sins, to repent quickly, and to trust that Your ways are always right. Teach me to honor You with faith and obedience rather than relying on my own schemes. 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.

Grace / Patience, Holy / Set Apart, Humility, Interceding for Others, Learning To Pray Effectively

Not of the World, But One in Christ (John 17:20–26)

True unity with God and with fellow believers is found in relationship with Yeshua, not in conformity to the world.

Key Verse:
“I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.” —John 17:20–21 NASB

Background Context:
John 17 records the High Priestly Prayer of Yeshua before His arrest. Having prayed for His disciples, He now turns to all future believers. His request is not for ease or acceptance by the world, but for deep spiritual unity—unity with Him and with the Father. This spiritual oneness would also bind His people together, making them distinct from the world that rejects Him.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 17:20-26

    20“I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; 21that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.

Their Future Glory

      22“The glory which You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one, just as We are one; 23I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and loved them, even as You have loved Me. 24“Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory which You have given Me, for You loved Me before the foundation of the world.

      25“O righteous Father, although the world has not known You, yet I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me; 26and I have made Your name known to them, and will make it known, so that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.”

Reflection on John 17:20–26:
Yeshua’s prayer highlights the kind of unity that matters: believers joined to Him as branches to the vine (John 15), and thus joined to the Father as well. This is not unity at any cost, nor a call to blend with the world. In fact, throughout John’s Gospel, Yeshua makes clear that His people are not of the world (John 17:14–16). The unity He prays for is supernatural—believers abiding in Him, sharing in His glory, and being filled with the love the Father has for the Son.

Notice the pattern:

  • The Father is in the Son.

  • The Son is in the Father.

  • Believers are drawn into this oneness through the Son.

It is this unity—God’s own life shared with His people—that causes the world to recognize something different. Not because we look like the world, but because we are set apart in Him. The church’s credibility, then, is not in chasing worldly approval but in visibly living out this oneness with Christ.

Application:
Ask yourself: Am I abiding in Christ daily, seeking oneness with Him above all else? Unity with other believers flows from first being united with the Son and the Father. We are not called to be “in step” with the world, but to walk in the love and truth of God. If you want to show your love for God, obey His Word, remain in His Son, and reflect His glory. That kind of unity will speak louder than any worldly compromise.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for drawing me into the oneness You share with Your Son. Keep me abiding in Christ, rooted in Your truth and Your love. Help me to live in such close unity with You that it overflows into unity with my brothers and sisters, set apart from the world yet shining as a testimony of Your glory. 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.