Category Archives: Character of God

Justice / Judgment, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Psalms, Seeking God

Remembering Zion in a Foreign Land (Psalm 137)

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How do you remain faithful to God in a world that opposes Him?

Psalm 137 is a song of sorrow, written by Israelites in exile, longing for their homeland and struggling with the pain of captivity. It reminds us of the deep grief that comes from being separated from God’s promises, yet also calls us to remain faithful even when surrounded by opposition.

Key Verse:
“By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down and wept, when we remembered Zion.” – Psalm 137:1 (NASB)

Background Context:
This psalm was written during Israel’s exile in Babylon after the destruction of Jerusalem. The Israelites had been taken from their homeland because of their disobedience to God, and now they lived among people who mocked their faith. The psalm expresses their deep sorrow, their longing for Zion, and their frustration toward those who had oppressed them. Though filled with lament, it serves as a reminder that our hearts should always remain tied to God’s promises, no matter where we find ourselves.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 137

An Experience of the Captivity.

    1By the rivers of Babylon,
There we sat down and wept,
When we remembered Zion.

      2Upon the willows in the midst of it
We hung our harps.

      3For there our captors demanded of us songs,
And our tormentors mirth, saying,
“Sing us one of the songs of Zion.”

      4How can we sing the LORD’S song
In a foreign land?

      5If I forget you, O Jerusalem,
May my right hand forget her skill.

      6May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth
If I do not remember you,
If I do not exalt Jerusalem
Above my chief joy.

      7Remember, O LORD, against the sons of Edom
The day of Jerusalem,
Who said, “Raze it, raze it
To its very foundation.”

      8O daughter of Babylon, you devastated one,
How blessed will be the one who repays you
With the recompense with which you have repaid us.

      9How blessed will be the one who seizes and dashes your little ones
Against the rock.

Reflection on Psalm 137:

  • A Deep Longing for God’s Presence:
    The exiles wept as they remembered Zion, the place where God’s presence dwelled (Psalm 137:1). They were not just longing for their homeland, but for the nearness to God that they once had. Do you hunger for God’s presence in your life, especially in difficult times?

  • Refusing to Compromise Worship:
    The Babylonians mocked the Israelites, asking them to sing songs of Zion in their captivity (Psalm 137:3-4). But worship is not entertainment; it is a sacred expression of devotion to God. Even when surrounded by a world that does not understand or respect your faith, do you remain committed to honoring God?

  • Holding Fast to God’s Promises:
    The psalmist declares, “If I forget you, O Jerusalem, may my right hand forget its skill” (Psalm 137:5). This reflects a deep commitment to never abandoning their faith or identity in God. No matter where we are, we must cling to His truth and never forget His promises.

  • God Will Bring Justice:
    The later verses of the psalm express strong emotions of anger and a cry for justice (Psalm 137:7-9). While these words are difficult to read, they remind us that God sees injustice and will ultimately bring judgment against evil. Instead of taking revenge, we must trust in God’s righteous justice.

Summary Key Points:

  • Long for God’s presence: Even in hardship, our hearts should desire closeness with Him.
  • Stay faithful in a foreign land: Do not compromise your faith, even when surrounded by opposition.
  • Hold fast to God’s promises: Never let the world distract you from His truth.
  • Trust in God’s justice: He sees all things and will bring justice in His perfect time.

Application:
Are you living in a place or situation where your faith is challenged? Stay faithful. Do not compromise your devotion to God, even when the world around you mocks or opposes you. Remember His promises, trust in His justice, and keep your heart set on Him.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, in a world that often opposes You, help me to remain faithful. Strengthen my heart to long for You and hold fast to Your promises. May I never compromise my worship, but always trust in Your justice and sovereignty. Keep my eyes fixed on You, no matter where I find myself. 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.

Forgive Others / Seek Forgiveness, Grace / Forgiveness, Repenting from Sin, Traditions / Holidays

Beyond New Year’s Resolutions: Finding True Renewal in Christ

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Have you ever set a New Year’s resolution, only to find yourself straying from it just a few weeks later? You’re not alone.

The start of a new year often brings with it the desire for a fresh start—promises to break bad habits, adopt healthier ones, and somehow erase past mistakes.

But how are these resolutions holding up? Are they drawing you nearer to God, or are they focused on more superficial gains?

The Power of True Change

While many of these resolutions falter by February, returning to old ways, there exists a path to genuine transformation, available any time of the year. This path is through Yeshua, Jesus Christ. Through Him, we receive forgiveness for our sins. By repenting, asking for forgiveness, believing in His sacrifice for us, and submitting ourselves to God, we are promised a new beginning—a true clean start that comes with divine power to sustain us.

The Prodigal Son: A Story of Return and Renewal

The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) beautifully illustrates God’s readiness to forgive and embrace us upon our return to Him. It serves as a vivid reminder that no sin is too great to be forgiven and that God eagerly awaits our humble return, much like the father awaited his lost son. This story encourages us to come home to God without delay, emphasizing His willingness to receive us back into His arms at any moment, not just in January.

The Holy Spirit: Our Guide and Helper

Upon our return to God and acceptance into His family, He gifts us the Holy Spirit to guide us (John 16:5-15). The Holy Spirit empowers our repentance and supports us in our journey, ensuring we are never alone. This divine assistance is crucial for our spiritual renewal and growth.

Forgiveness and Obedience: Keys to Renewal

Scriptures such as Isaiah 1:18-20, Daniel 9:7-14, and Acts 3:19-21 emphasize the importance of repentance and obedience to God’s word for forgiveness. These passages reassure us of God’s promise to cleanse us from our sins, offering us a fresh start. However, they also remind us of the consequences of continued rebellion against Him.

Reflecting on God’s Promises

Ephesians 1:3-14, Colossians 1:13-14, 1 John 1:9-10, and Psalm 103:1-13 are just a few examples of the many scriptures that speak of God’s forgiveness and the renewal He offers us. They invite us to meditate on the depth of God’s love and the breadth of His mercy, encouraging us to embrace the clean start available to us in Christ at any time.

Invitation to Transformation

As we reflect on these truths, let us consider the areas of our lives in need of God’s transformative power. How can the promise of forgiveness and the guidance of the Holy Spirit lead us toward a genuine fresh start? Let us approach God in prayer, seeking His strength and wisdom to make changes that draw us closer to Him.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Remember, a true clean start is not confined to the turning of a calendar year but is found in the grace and love of our Lord, Jesus Christ. This opportunity for renewal is available to us at any moment, offering not just a temporary change but a lasting transformation. Let us embrace this divine gift, stepping into the new life God has prepared for us.

Engage and Share

Share your thoughts, experiences, or prayer requests in the comments below. Let’s encourage one another as we pursue genuine change and renewal in Christ. Tag someone who needs to hear about the promise of a fresh start today. Together, let’s walk in the power and promise of God’s unwavering love and forgiveness.

Closing Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

As we stand at the crossroads of old habits and new beginnings, we turn our hearts to You, seeking the true renewal that only comes through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for the promise of forgiveness, the gift of Your Spirit, and the endless grace You pour out on us each day.

Lord, guide us away from the fleeting resolutions of this world and lead us into the everlasting transformation You offer. Help us to lay down our burdens, sins, and failures at Your feet, embracing the clean start You provide at any moment, not just as the calendar turns.

Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may walk in Your ways, embodying Your love, righteousness, and truth. Strengthen us to resist the temptations that pull us away from You, and keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.

As we move forward, let Your will be done in our lives. May we serve as vessels of Your love and light to others, sharing the hope and renewal we’ve found in You.

In Jesus’ Name, we pray, Amen.

To learn more about following Yeshua, continue reading The Message of the Cross.

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

John Golda

Merciful, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Provider, Psalms, Thankfulness

His Love Endures Forever (Psalm 136)

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How often do you stop and thank God for His enduring love?

Psalm 136 is a powerful song of thanksgiving that repeatedly declares, “His mercy endures forever.” This psalm calls us to remember God’s great works and steadfast love, teaching us that gratitude should be at the heart of our worship.

Key Verse:
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His mercy endures forever.” – Psalm 136:1 (NASB)

Background Context:
Psalm 136 is structured as a call-and-response, likely used in Israel’s worship. Each verse recounts God’s mighty acts, followed by the refrain, “For His mercy endures forever.” This repetition emphasizes that God’s steadfast love is the foundation of all His works—His creation, deliverance, and provision for His people. The psalm reminds us to reflect on God’s faithfulness and respond with gratitude.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 136

Thanks for the LORD’S Goodness to Israel.

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

      2Give thanks to the God of gods,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

      3Give thanks to the Lord of lords,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

      4To Him who alone does great wonders,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting;

      5To Him who made the heavens with skill,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting;

      6To Him who spread out the earth above the waters,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting;

      7To Him who made the great lights,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting:

      8The sun to rule by day,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting,

      9The moon and stars to rule by night,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

      10To Him who smote the Egyptians in their firstborn,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting,

      11And brought Israel out from their midst,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting,

      12With a strong hand and an outstretched arm,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

      13To Him who divided the Red Sea asunder,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting,

      14And made Israel pass through the midst of it,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting;

      15But He overthrew Pharaoh and his army in the Red Sea,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

      16To Him who led His people through the wilderness,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting;

      17To Him who smote great kings,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting,

      18And slew mighty kings,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting:

      19Sihon, king of the Amorites,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting,

      20And Og, king of Bashan,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting,

      21And gave their land as a heritage,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting,

      22Even a heritage to Israel His servant,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

      23Who remembered us in our low estate,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting,

      24And has rescued us from our adversaries,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting;

      25Who gives food to all flesh,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

      26Give thanks to the God of heaven,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

Reflection on Psalm 136:

  • God’s Mercy Is Eternal:
    The phrase “His mercy endures forever” is repeated 26 times in this psalm. This is not by accident—God’s love is unwavering, limitless, and never fails. Have you taken time today to thank Him for His enduring mercy?
  • Praise God for Creation:
    The psalm begins with praising God as Creator (Psalm 136:4-9). From the heavens to the earth, everything is a testimony of His greatness. Do you acknowledge God’s hand in creation and thank Him for His marvelous works?
  • Remembering God’s Deliverance:
    The psalm recounts Israel’s deliverance from Egypt (Psalm 136:10-16). Just as God rescued Israel, He also delivers us from sin through Jesus Christ. Have you reflected on how God has brought you out of difficult places in your life?
  • God’s Provision and Victory:
    God not only delivered His people but also provided for them and gave them victory over their enemies (Psalm 136:17-25). His faithfulness is not just a thing of the past—He still provides for His people today. How has God shown His faithfulness in your life?
  • A Call to Thanksgiving:
    The psalm ends with a call to give thanks to the God of heaven (Psalm 136:26). Gratitude should be a daily response to God’s love. Are you cultivating a heart of thanksgiving in your daily walk?

Summary Key Points:

  • God’s love never fails: His mercy endures forever.
  • Praise Him for creation: Every part of creation reflects His greatness.
  • Remember His deliverance: Just as He rescued Israel, He delivers us today.
  • Trust in His provision: God always cares for His people.
  • Live with gratitude: Thanksgiving should be at the center of our faith.

Application:
Set aside time today to reflect on God’s enduring mercy in your life. Keep a journal of His faithfulness and make gratitude a daily habit. Use Psalm 136 as a model for your prayers, praising God for His love and mighty works.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I give You thanks for Your unchanging and eternal love. Your mercy endures forever, and I am grateful for Your faithfulness in my life. Help me to live with a heart of thanksgiving and to always remember Your great works. May my life be a testimony of Your love. 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.

Loving / Kind, Traditions / Holidays

What Is Love? Exploring Biblical Love around Valentine’s Day

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Ever wondered about the true essence of love beyond the commercial buzz of Valentine’s Day?

Valentine’s Day often comes packaged with high expectations and commercial hype, promoting everything from chocolates to expensive jewelry as symbols of love. Yet, these societal norms barely scratch the surface of true, Biblical love.

Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

Background Context: In Greek, the language of the New Testament, several words describe different types of love, reflecting its complex and multifaceted nature. In contrast, English uses the single word “love” across various contexts, necessitating a deeper look at the intent and meaning in scriptural references.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul outlines the profound attributes of love in 1 Corinthians 13, distinguishing it from the shallow and often materialistic expressions seen in popular culture. This passage is a cornerstone for understanding Christian love, contrasting sharply with the superficial gestures commonly promoted during Valentine’s Day.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 Corinthians 13

The Excellence of Love

      1If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing.

      4Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, 5does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, 6does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

      8Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away. 9For we know in part and we prophesy in part; 10but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away. 11When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. 12For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. 13But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.

Reflection on 1 Corinthians 13:

  • Patience and Kindness: True love mirrors God’s nature—patient and kind. It stands in contrast to the impulsive purchases and grand gestures often glorified by Valentine’s Day commercials.
  • Enduring and Selfless: Biblical love is enduring and selfless, not limited to a single day of acknowledgment but lived out daily in our actions and interactions.
  • Beyond Materialism: While giving gifts can be an expression of love, the commercial push during Valentine’s Day often distorts this expression into a compulsory act driven by societal expectations rather than genuine affection.

Summary Key Points:

  • Love is Multi-dimensional: Unlike the one-dimensional portrayal in Valentine’s Day advertising, Biblical love is rich and varied, encompassing patience, kindness, and selflessness.
  • Daily Expression: True love is not confined to special occasions but is a daily commitment to act out of love for one another, reflecting Christ’s love for us.
  • Critical View of Commercial Holidays: It’s crucial to discern the motivations behind our actions, especially during heavily marketed holidays. Are we acting out of true love or societal pressure? 

One last parting thought… we can love YHWH and love others because He has first shown me love. Yeshua died for us to make a way for us to be forgiven our sins.

John 15:12-13

      12“This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. 13“Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.

The best way to show love for one another is through how we treat one another every day of the year.

(To learn more about the pagan origins of Valentines Day – World Religion News: Pagan origin of Valentines day)

Application: Consider how you express love in daily life. Are your actions influenced by cultural expectations or grounded in the Biblical definition of love? Discuss with loved ones how you might celebrate your love in ways that are meaningful and rooted in faith, not just on Valentine’s Day but throughout the year.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us the perfect example of love through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to love not just in words or speech but in actions and truth. Teach us to express this love every day, not just on special occasions, and to resist the pressures of commercial influences. 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, Humility, Justice / Judgment, Love, Merciful, Mercy, Purposeful / Intentional

Mercy Over Judgment (James 2:1-13)

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How do you treat others when no one is watching?

James 2:1-13 challenges us to reflect on how we treat people, warning against favoritism and reminding us of God’s call to love and show mercy. As followers of Yeshua, we are to reflect His character, treating others with the same grace we have received.

Key Verse:
“For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment.” – James 2:13 (NASB)

Background Context:
James writes to Jewish believers scattered across different regions, emphasizing the need for practical faith. In this passage, he directly addresses favoritism in the church, pointing out that treating people differently based on wealth or status contradicts the heart of the gospel. He reminds us that God’s royal law calls us to love our neighbor as ourselves and warns that true faith is demonstrated through mercy and righteousness.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

James 2:1-13

The Sin of Partiality

      1My brethren, do not hold your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism. 2For if a man comes into your assembly with a gold ring and dressed in fine clothes, and there also comes in a poor man in dirty clothes, 3and you pay special attention to the one who is wearing the fine clothes, and say, “You sit here in a good place,” and you say to the poor man, “You stand over there, or sit down by my footstool,” 4have you not made distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil motives? 5Listen, my beloved brethren: did not God choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him? 6But you have dishonored the poor man. Is it not the rich who oppress you and personally drag you into court? 7Do they not blaspheme the fair name by which you have been called?

      8If, however, you are fulfilling the royal law according to the Scripture, “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF,” you are doing well. 9But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. 10For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of all. 11For He who said, “DO NOT COMMIT ADULTERY,” also said, “DO NOT COMMIT MURDER.” Now if you do not commit adultery, but do commit murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. 12So speak and so act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty. 13For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment.

Reflection on James 2:1-13:

  • Favoritism Contradicts Faith:
    James rebukes showing preference to the wealthy while neglecting the poor (James 2:1-4). Partiality reveals a worldly mindset that values people based on status rather than seeing them as God does. Are you treating all people with equal love and dignity?
  • God’s Kingdom Values the Humble:
    James reminds us that God often chooses the poor to be rich in faith (James 2:5-7). True riches come from spiritual wealth, not worldly success. Are you prioritizing faith over material status?
  • The Royal Law of Love:
    The command to love our neighbor as ourselves (James 2:8) is foundational to living as God’s people. Disregarding this law makes us guilty, no matter how “small” we think our sins are (James 2:9-11). Are you striving to love others with Christlike compassion?
  • Mercy Triumphs Over Judgment:
    James warns that those who fail to show mercy will be judged without mercy (James 2:12-13). Since we have received God’s grace, we must extend grace to others. Are you quick to judge others, or do you respond with mercy?

Summary Key Points:

  • Avoid Favoritism: All people have value in God’s eyes, regardless of status.
  • True Wealth Is Spiritual: Faith, not riches, determines one’s standing with God.
  • Obey the Law of Love: Loving others is central to our faith.
  • Sin Is Serious: Even “small” sins separate us from God.
  • Show Mercy as God Has Shown You Mercy: Mercy reflects God’s heart and leads to freedom.

Application:
Examine your heart for areas where you may be showing favoritism, whether consciously or unconsciously. Seek to treat everyone with love and honor, regardless of their status or background. Reflect on the mercy God has shown you and ask Him to help you extend that same mercy to others.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help us to see people as You see them, without favoritism or judgment. Teach us to love our neighbors as ourselves and to extend the same mercy You have given us. May our lives reflect Your grace, and may we walk in obedience to Your royal law of love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Faith / Trusting God, His Timing Not Ours, Praise / Worship / Glorify God

Rejoicing in God, Even in the Waiting (Habakkuk 3)

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Can you praise God even when things don’t go as planned?

Habakkuk 3 is a prayer of praise, showing a remarkable transformation in the prophet’s heart. He moves from questioning God’s justice to trusting in His sovereign plan, rejoicing in the Lord even when circumstances seem bleak.

Key Verse:
“Yet I will triumph in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.” – Habakkuk 3:18 (NASB)

Background Context:
After questioning God in the first two chapters, Habakkuk ends his prophecy with a prayer of faith and surrender. He recalls God’s past faithfulness and power, recognizing that even though judgment is coming, he can trust the Lord. This chapter shifts from fear to worship, teaching us that faith is not about seeing immediate results but trusting in God’s character.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Habakkuk 3

God’s Deliverance of His People

      1A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet, according to Shigionoth.

      2LORD, I have heard the report about You and I fear.
O LORD, revive Your work in the midst of the years,
In the midst of the years make it known;
In wrath remember mercy.

      3God comes from Teman,
And the Holy One from Mount Paran.

Selah.

His splendor covers the heavens,
And the earth is full of His praise.

      4His radiance is like the sunlight;
He has rays flashing from His hand,
And there is the hiding of His power.

      5Before Him goes pestilence,
And plague comes after Him.

      6He stood and surveyed the earth;
He looked and startled the nations.
Yes, the perpetual mountains were shattered,
The ancient hills collapsed.
His ways are everlasting.

      7I saw the tents of Cushan under distress,
The tent curtains of the land of Midian were trembling.

      8Did the LORD rage against the rivers,
Or was Your anger against the rivers,
Or was Your wrath against the sea,
That You rode on Your horses,
On Your chariots of salvation?

      9Your bow was made bare,
The rods of chastisement were sworn.

Selah.

You cleaved the earth with rivers.

      10The mountains saw You and quaked;
The downpour of waters swept by.
The deep uttered forth its voice,
It lifted high its hands.

      11Sun and moon stood in their places;
They went away at the light of Your arrows,
At the radiance of Your gleaming spear.

      12In indignation You marched through the earth;
In anger You trampled the nations.

      13You went forth for the salvation of Your people,
For the salvation of Your anointed.
You struck the head of the house of the evil
To lay him open from thigh to neck.

Selah.

      14You pierced with his own spears
The head of his throngs.
They stormed in to scatter us;
Their exultation was like those
Who devour the oppressed in secret.

      15You trampled on the sea with Your horses,
On the surge of many waters.

      16I heard and my inward parts trembled,
At the sound my lips quivered.
Decay enters my bones,
And in my place I tremble.
Because I must wait quietly for the day of distress,
For the people to arise who will invade us.

      17Though the fig tree should not blossom
And there be no fruit on the vines,
Though the yield of the olive should fail
And the fields produce no food,
Though the flock should be cut off from the fold
And there be no cattle in the stalls,

      18Yet I will exult in the LORD,
I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.

      19The Lord GOD is my strength,
And He has made my feet like hinds’ feet,
And makes me walk on my high places.
For the choir director, on my stringed instruments.

Reflection on Habakkuk 3:

  • Remembering God’s Past Faithfulness:
    Habakkuk recalls how God has acted in history to save His people (Habakkuk 3:2-15). This strengthens his faith, reminding him that the same God who delivered Israel before will be faithful again. When you face uncertainty, do you take time to remember how God has worked in your life?
  • Waiting with Patience and Trust:
    Habakkuk acknowledges that trouble is coming, yet he waits for God’s plan to unfold (Habakkuk 3:16). Faith means trusting God’s timing, even when we don’t understand His ways. Are you willing to wait on God rather than rush ahead with your own solutions?
  • Rejoicing Despite Difficult Circumstances:
    Even if crops fail and livestock are lost, Habakkuk declares that he will still rejoice in God (Habakkuk 3:17-18). His joy is not based on his circumstances but on God’s unchanging nature. Is your faith dependent on what God does for you, or do you trust Him no matter what?
  • God Is Our Strength:
    Habakkuk closes by recognizing that the Lord is his strength, making him as sure-footed as a deer (Habakkuk 3:19). No matter the trials we face, God gives us the strength to endure. Are you relying on your own strength, or are you finding strength in Him?

Summary Key Points:

  • Look Back at God’s Faithfulness: Remembering His past works strengthens our faith.
  • Trust in God’s Timing: Even when trouble is ahead, wait on Him.
  • Rejoice in the Lord, Not in Circumstances: True joy comes from knowing God, not from worldly security.
  • God Gives Us Strength: He equips us to endure hardships and walk by faith.

Application:
Instead of focusing on what’s going wrong, shift your perspective to who God is. Recall how He has been faithful in the past, trust in His timing, and choose to rejoice in Him today. Even if circumstances don’t change immediately, let your faith be unwavering.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness through all generations. Help us to trust in Your timing, rejoice in You despite challenges, and find our strength in You alone. May we remember Your past works and walk in faith, knowing that You are always in control. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Discipline / Guidance From God, His Timing Not Ours, Justice / Judgment

Living by Faith in a World of Injustice (Habakkuk 2)

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What do you do when God’s justice seems delayed?

Habakkuk 2 is God’s response to the prophet’s continued questioning, assuring him that judgment is coming for the wicked. Yet, the key lesson in this chapter is that the righteous are called to live by faith, trusting in God’s justice even when it seems delayed.

Key Verse:
“Behold, as for the proud one, his soul is not right within him; but the righteous one will live by his faith.” – Habakkuk 2:4 (NASB)

Background Context:
In Habakkuk 1, the prophet wrestled with the reality of Judah’s corruption and God’s unexpected plan to use Babylon, a wicked nation, as His instrument of judgment. In chapter 2, God tells Habakkuk to write down His vision and trust that His justice will come at the appointed time. The Lord pronounces five woes against Babylon, warning that their arrogance, greed, violence, and idolatry will lead to their downfall. This passage highlights the contrast between the prideful, who trust in themselves, and the righteous, who live by faith in God’s timing and justice.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Habakkuk 2

God Answers the Prophet

1I will stand on my guard post
And station myself on the rampart;
And I will keep watch to see what He will speak to me,
And how I may reply when I am reproved.

      2Then the LORD answered me and said,
“Record the vision
And inscribe it on tablets,
That the one who reads it may run.

      3“For the vision is yet for the appointed time;
It hastens toward the goal and it will not fail.
Though it tarries, wait for it;
For it will certainly come, it will not delay.

      4“Behold, as for the proud one,
His soul is not right within him;
But the righteous will live by his faith.

      5“Furthermore, wine betrays the haughty man,
So that he does not stay at home.
He enlarges his appetite like Sheol,
And he is like death, never satisfied.
He also gathers to himself all nations
And collects to himself all peoples.

      6“Will not all of these take up a taunt-song against him,
Even mockery and insinuations against him
And say, ‘Woe to him who increases what is not his—
For how long—
And makes himself rich with loans?’

      7“Will not your creditors rise up suddenly,
And those who collect from you awaken?
Indeed, you will become plunder for them.

      8“Because you have looted many nations,
All the remainder of the peoples will loot you—
Because of human bloodshed and violence done to the land,
To the town and all its inhabitants.

      9“Woe to him who gets evil gain for his house
To put his nest on high,
To be delivered from the hand of calamity!

      10“You have devised a shameful thing for your house
By cutting off many peoples;
So you are sinning against yourself.

      11“Surely the stone will cry out from the wall,
And the rafter will answer it from the framework.

      12“Woe to him who builds a city with bloodshed
And founds a town with violence!

      13“Is it not indeed from the LORD of hosts
That peoples toil for fire,
And nations grow weary for nothing?

      14“For the earth will be filled
With the knowledge of the glory of the LORD,
As the waters cover the sea.

      15“Woe to you who make your neighbors drink,
Who mix in your venom even to make them drunk
So as to look on their nakedness!

      16“You will be filled with disgrace rather than honor.
Now you yourself drink and expose your own nakedness.
The cup in the LORD’S right hand will come around to you,
And utter disgrace will come upon your glory.

      17“For the violence done to Lebanon will overwhelm you,
And the devastation of its beasts by which you terrified them,
Because of human bloodshed and violence done to the land,
To the town and all its inhabitants.

      18“What profit is the idol when its maker has carved it,
Or an image, a teacher of falsehood?
For its maker trusts in his own handiwork
When he fashions speechless idols.

      19“Woe to him who says to a piece of wood, ‘Awake!’
To a mute stone, ‘Arise!’
And that is your teacher?
Behold, it is overlaid with gold and silver,
And there is no breath at all inside it.

      20“But the LORD is in His holy temple.
Let all the earth be silent before Him.”

Reflection on Habakkuk 2:

  • God’s Timing Is Perfect:
    The Lord instructs Habakkuk to write down the vision because it will come to pass at the appointed time (Habakkuk 2:2-3). Though judgment may seem delayed, God assures that it will not fail. Are you trusting that God’s plans will unfold in His perfect timing?
  • The Righteous Live by Faith:
    In contrast to the proud, who trust in themselves, the righteous are called to live by faith (Habakkuk 2:4). This principle is foundational to the gospel and is echoed in the New Testament (Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11, Hebrews 10:38). Are you walking by faith, even when circumstances seem uncertain?
  • God Will Judge the Wicked:
    God pronounces five woes against Babylon, condemning their greed (v. 6-8), dishonesty (v. 9-11), violence (v. 12-14), immorality (v. 15-17), and idolatry (v. 18-20). No matter how powerful the wicked seem, their downfall is inevitable. Are you finding peace in the certainty of God’s justice?
  • The Earth Will Be Filled with God’s Glory:
    Despite the wickedness in the world, God declares that His glory will fill the earth (Habakkuk 2:14). His justice is not just about punishing sin but also about restoring righteousness. Do you focus on the brokenness of the world, or do you trust in God’s ultimate victory?

Summary Key Points:

  • God’s timing is certain: His justice will not fail, even when it seems delayed.
  • Faith is the key to righteousness: Trusting God’s promises sustains us through uncertainty.
  • Pride leads to destruction: Those who trust in themselves will ultimately fall.
  • God will bring justice: The wicked may thrive for a time, but their judgment is sure.
  • God’s glory will prevail: His kingdom will fill the earth, bringing righteousness and peace.

Application:
Are you struggling to trust in God’s timing? Surrender your doubts and fears to Him, choosing to live by faith rather than by sight. Meditate on His promises and remember that His justice is sure. Let go of pride and self-reliance, and place your full trust in God’s sovereignty.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that Your timing is perfect and that Your justice will never fail. Help us to live by faith, trusting in Your plans even when we don’t understand them. Keep our hearts humble and our eyes fixed on Your promises. May Your glory fill the earth, and may we walk faithfully in Your ways. 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.

Faithful, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Justice / Judgment, Uncategorized

Trusting God When Evil Seems to Prevail (Habakkuk 1)

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Have you ever wondered why God allows injustice to continue?

Habakkuk 1 records the prophet’s raw and honest questions to God, as he struggles to understand why evil seems to go unpunished. This chapter reminds us that even when we don’t see immediate justice, God is sovereign and working out His perfect plan.

Key Verse:
“How long, Lord, have I called for help, and You do not hear? I cry out to You, ‘Violence!’ Yet You do not save.” – Habakkuk 1:2 (NASB)

Background Context:
Habakkuk prophesied during a time of moral and spiritual decay in Judah. Corruption, violence, and idolatry were rampant, and it seemed like God was silent. Unlike other prophets who spoke God’s words to the people, Habakkuk speaks directly to God, wrestling with deep questions about His justice. The Lord responds, revealing that He is raising up Babylon as an instrument of judgment—something that shocks Habakkuk even more. This chapter teaches us that faith often requires trusting God’s wisdom, even when His plans don’t make sense to us.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Habakkuk 1

Chaldeans Used to Punish Judah

      1The oracle which Habakkuk the prophet saw.

      2How long, O LORD, will I call for help,
And You will not hear?
I cry out to You, “Violence!”
Yet You do not save.

      3Why do You make me see iniquity,
And cause me to look on wickedness?
Yes, destruction and violence are before me;
Strife exists and contention arises.

      4Therefore the law is ignored
And justice is never upheld.
For the wicked surround the righteous;
Therefore justice comes out perverted.

      5“Look among the nations! Observe!
Be astonished! Wonder!
Because I am doing something in your days—
You would not believe if you were told.

      6“For behold, I am raising up the Chaldeans,
That fierce and impetuous people
Who march throughout the earth
To seize dwelling places which are not theirs.

      7“They are dreaded and feared;
Their justice and authority originate with themselves.

      8“Their horses are swifter than leopards
And keener than wolves in the evening.
Their horsemen come galloping,
Their horsemen come from afar;
They fly like an eagle swooping down to devour.

      9“All of them come for violence.
Their horde of faces moves forward.
They collect captives like sand.

      10“They mock at kings
And rulers are a laughing matter to them.
They laugh at every fortress
And heap up rubble to capture it.

      11“Then they will sweep through like the wind and pass on.
But they will be held guilty,
They whose strength is their god.”

      12Are You not from everlasting,
O LORD, my God, my Holy One?
We will not die.
You, O LORD, have appointed them to judge;
And You, O Rock, have established them to correct.

      13Your eyes are too pure to approve evil,
And You can not look on wickedness with favor.
Why do You look with favor
On those who deal treacherously?
Why are You silent when the wicked swallow up
Those more righteous than they?

      14Why have You made men like the fish of the sea,
Like creeping things without a ruler over them?

      15The Chaldeans bring all of them up with a hook,
Drag them away with their net,
And gather them together in their fishing net.
Therefore they rejoice and are glad.

      16Therefore they offer a sacrifice to their net
And burn incense to their fishing net;
Because through these things their catch is large,
And their food is plentiful.

      17Will they therefore empty their net
And continually slay nations without sparing?

Reflection on Habakkuk 1:

  • God’s Silence Doesn’t Mean He’s Absent:
    Habakkuk cries out, asking why God hasn’t intervened (Habakkuk 1:2-4). Many of us have felt this way when faced with injustice. But silence is not the same as inaction—God’s timing is not our own. Are you trusting that God is at work, even when you don’t see immediate answers?
  • God’s Plans Are Beyond Our Understanding:
    When God responds, He tells Habakkuk that He is raising up Babylon to bring judgment on Judah (Habakkuk 1:5-11). This was unexpected and difficult to accept. Sometimes, God’s ways don’t align with our expectations, but His wisdom is greater than ours. Are you willing to trust God even when His plans seem confusing?
  • Evil Will Not Go Unpunished:
    Habakkuk struggles with how a wicked nation like Babylon could be used for God’s purposes (Habakkuk 1:12-17). He reminds God of His holiness and justice. This reminds us that while evil may seem to thrive for a time, God’s judgment is sure. Are you holding onto the truth that God will bring justice in His perfect time?

Summary Key Points:

  • God hears our cries: Even when it seems like He is silent, He is still working.
  • His ways are higher than ours: God’s plans often surprise us, but they are always wise.
  • Evil will not last forever: God will ultimately bring justice.
  • Faith requires trust in uncertainty: Like Habakkuk, we must hold onto God’s character even when we don’t understand His actions.

Application:
If you’re struggling with unanswered questions or injustice, bring them honestly before God, just as Habakkuk did. Instead of doubting His goodness, ask Him for the faith to trust His plan. Remember that God’s justice may not be immediate, but it is always certain.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come to You with our questions and struggles, just as Habakkuk did. Help us to trust in Your wisdom and timing, even when we don’t understand. Strengthen our faith to believe that You are in control and that Your justice will prevail. Teach us to rest in Your sovereignty and to trust in Your unfailing love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Faith / Trusting God, Humility, Justice / Judgment, Pride, Protector / Deliverer, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God

The Fall of the Proud (Nahum 2)

What happens when a nation or individual exalts themselves above God’s will?

Nahum 2 proclaims the fall of Nineveh, a once-mighty city whose pride and cruelty led to its destruction. This chapter reminds us that no power or wealth can stand against the Lord. It is both a sobering warning and an encouragement to trust in God’s justice.

Key Verse:
“Behold, I am against you,” declares the Lord of hosts. – Nahum 2:13a (NASB)

Background Context:
Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, was a city of immense power and wealth, known for its brutality and arrogance. Despite its earlier repentance during Jonah’s time, the city returned to its sinful ways. Nahum 2 vividly describes the siege and fall of Nineveh as a demonstration of God’s judgment. This chapter highlights the consequences of pride and cruelty while affirming God’s sovereignty over even the mightiest kingdoms.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Nahum 2

The Overthrow of Nineveh

1The one who scatters has come up against you.
Man the fortress, watch the road;
Strengthen your back, summon all your strength.

      2For the LORD will restore the splendor of Jacob
Like the splendor of Israel,
Even though devastators have devastated them
And destroyed their vine branches.

      3The shields of his mighty men are colored red,
The warriors are dressed in scarlet,
The chariots are enveloped in flashing steel
When he is prepared to march,
And the cypress spears are brandished.

      4The chariots race madly in the streets,
They rush wildly in the squares,
Their appearance is like torches,
They dash to and fro like lightning flashes.

      5He remembers his nobles;
They stumble in their march,
They hurry to her wall,
And the mantelet is set up.

      6The gates of the rivers are opened
And the palace is dissolved.

      7It is fixed:
She is stripped, she is carried away,
And her handmaids are moaning like the sound of doves,
Beating on their breasts.

      8Though Nineveh was like a pool of water throughout her days,
Now they are fleeing;
“Stop, stop,”
But no one turns back.

      9Plunder the silver!
Plunder the gold!
For there is no limit to the treasure—
Wealth from every kind of desirable object.

      10She is emptied! Yes, she is desolate and waste!
Hearts are melting and knees knocking!
Also anguish is in the whole body
And all their faces are grown pale!

      11Where is the den of the lions
And the feeding place of the young lions,
Where the lion, lioness and lion’s cub prowled,
With nothing to disturb them?

      12The lion tore enough for his cubs,
Killed enough for his lionesses,
And filled his lairs with prey
And his dens with torn flesh.

      13“Behold, I am against you,” declares the LORD of hosts. “I will burn up her chariots in smoke, a sword will devour your young lions; I will cut off your prey from the land, and no longer will the voice of your messengers be heard.”

Reflection on Nahum 2:

  • The Overthrow of the Proud:
    The chapter vividly depicts the chaos of Nineveh’s downfall, showing how its wealth and defenses could not protect it from God’s judgment (Nahum 2:1-7). This serves as a warning against placing trust in worldly power or possessions. Are you relying on God rather than worldly resources for your security?
  • God’s Justice Is Perfect:
    Nahum 2:13 declares God’s stance against Nineveh, emphasizing that He sees and judges wickedness. This should encourage us to trust that God sees all injustice and will act in His timing. Are you trusting in God’s justice rather than becoming disheartened by the world’s evils?
  • A Warning Against Complacency:
    Nineveh’s fall is a reminder that earlier repentance must be followed by continued faithfulness. The city had repented during Jonah’s time but turned back to sin. Are you staying vigilant in your walk with God, continually seeking His guidance and correction?
  • Hope for the Oppressed:
    For those who suffered under Nineveh’s cruelty, its fall was a sign of God’s deliverance and faithfulness. God’s justice brings hope to those who trust in Him. Are you placing your hope in God’s ability to bring restoration and peace?

Summary Key Points:

  • Pride Leads to Destruction: Trusting in worldly power or wealth is futile.
  • God Sees and Judges Sin: His justice is perfect and will prevail in His timing.
  • Repentance Requires Faithfulness: Stay vigilant in following God’s ways.
  • God Is Faithful to Deliver: He brings hope and restoration to the oppressed.
  • Rely on God, Not the World: Place your trust in His sovereignty and care.

Application:
Reflect on areas where you may be tempted to trust in worldly resources or pride rather than God’s provision. Surrender those areas to Him, trusting in His justice and sovereignty. Pray for the strength to remain faithful in your walk with Him and for His guidance in all areas of your life.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us of the dangers of pride and the futility of trusting in worldly power. Help us to rely fully on You and to stay faithful in our walk with You. Teach us to trust in Your justice and to place our hope in Your deliverance. May our lives reflect humility and dependence on Your sovereignty. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Faith / Trusting God, Father / Yahweh, Hope, Humility, Peace / Rest, Psalms

Trusting Like a Child (Psalm 131)

What does it mean to have a heart that is calm and quiet before the Lord?

Psalm 131 invites us to embrace a childlike trust in God, leaving behind pride and anxiety to rest in His presence. It is a short but powerful declaration of humility and hope in the Lord.

Key Verse:
“O Lord, my heart is not proud, nor my eyes haughty; nor do I involve myself in great matters, or in things too difficult for me.” – Psalm 131:1 (NASB)

Background Context:
Psalm 131 is one of the Songs of Ascents, reflecting the humility and simplicity of one who trusts fully in the Lord. Attributed to David, it captures a posture of surrender, where pride, ambition, and worry give way to a calm and quiet confidence in God’s care. This psalm reminds us that peace comes from trusting God as a child trusts a loving parent.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 131

Childlike Trust in the LORD.

A Song of Ascents, of David.

1O LORD, my heart is not proud, nor my eyes haughty;
Nor do I involve myself in great matters,
Or in things too difficult for me.

      2Surely I have composed and quieted my soul;
Like a weaned child rests against his mother,
My soul is like a weaned child within me.

      3O Israel, hope in the LORD
From this time forth and forever.

Reflection on Psalm 131:

  • Humility Before God:
    The psalmist begins by rejecting pride and haughtiness, acknowledging that not all things are for us to understand or control (Psalm 131:1). Humility allows us to trust God’s wisdom above our own. Are you surrendering areas of pride and ambition to rest in God’s plan?
  • A Heart at Rest:
    The psalmist describes his soul as calmed and quieted, like a weaned child with its mother (Psalm 131:2). This imagery reflects contentment and trust, free from striving or fear. Are you finding peace by placing your trust in God’s care and provision?
  • Hope in the Lord:
    The psalm ends with a call for Israel to hope in the Lord both now and forever (Psalm 131:3). Trusting God is not a temporary action but a lifelong posture of dependence on His faithfulness. Are you cultivating a hope in God that anchors you through all seasons?

Summary Key Points:

  • Reject Pride and Anxiety: Trust God’s wisdom and let go of the need to control or understand everything.
  • Rest in God’s Care: Find peace in His presence, like a child content with a loving parent.
  • Live with Hope: Place your confidence in God’s faithfulness for today and all eternity.
  • Cultivate Humility: Acknowledge God’s greatness and rely on His guidance.
  • Trust Beyond Understanding: Rest in the truth that His ways are higher than ours.

Application:
Reflect on areas of your life where pride, ambition, or anxiety may be disrupting your peace. Surrender those areas to God, trusting in His wisdom and care. Seek to cultivate a childlike faith, finding rest and contentment in His presence. Share this message of trust and hope with others who may be struggling to let go of control.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for inviting us to rest in Your presence like a child with a loving parent. Help us to surrender our pride and anxieties, trusting in Your wisdom and care. Teach us to find peace in You and to live with hope anchored in Your faithfulness. May our hearts be calm and quiet before You, bringing You glory in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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