Category Archives: His Timing Not Ours

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

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

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

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

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

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 73

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

A Psalm of Asaph.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summary Key Points:

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

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

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

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

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

John Golda

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

Father / Yahweh, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Infinite / Without Limit, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Prophecy

Divine Threads: Tracing God’s Work Across Generations (Luke 3:23-38)

Have you ever marveled at how God weaves His redemptive plan across generations, orchestrating events and fulfilling His promises through the tapestry of time?

In Luke 3:23-38, we encounter a genealogy that traces the lineage of Jesus, offering a glimpse into God’s intricate work spanning multiple generations. Join us as we delve into this passage and uncover the significance of Jesus’ ancestry.

Reconnect: Luke 3:23-38 presents a detailed genealogy tracing Jesus’ lineage back to Adam, the first man. While genealogies may seem mundane, this list of names holds profound significance, showcasing God’s faithfulness to fulfill His promises and establish His redemptive plan through generations. Let’s explore the layers of meaning embedded within this genealogy and discover the rich tapestry of God’s providence.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 3:23-38

Genealogy of Jesus

     23When He began His ministry, Jesus Himself was about thirty years of age, being, as was supposed, the son of Joseph, the son of Eli, 24the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, the son of Melchi, the son of Jannai, the son of Joseph, 25the son of Mattathias, the son of Amos, the son of Nahum, the son of Hesli, the son of Naggai, 26the son of Maath, the son of Mattathias, the son of Semein, the son of Josech, the son of Joda, 27the son of Joanan, the son of Rhesa, the son of Zerubbabel, the son of Shealtiel, the son of Neri, 28the son of Melchi, the son of Addi, the son of Cosam, the son of Elmadam, the son of Er, 29the son of Joshua, the son of Eliezer, the son of Jorim, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, 30the son of Simeon, the son of Judah, the son of Joseph, the son of Jonam, the son of Eliakim, 31the son of Melea, the son of Menna, the son of Mattatha, the son of Nathan, the son of David, 32the son of Jesse, the son of Obed, the son of Boaz, the son of Salmon, the son of Nahshon, 33the son of Amminadab, the son of Admin, the son of Ram, the son of Hezron, the son of Perez, the son of Judah, 34the son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham, the son of Terah, the son of Nahor, 35the son of Serug, the son of Reu, the son of Peleg, the son of Heber, the son of Shelah, 36the son of Cainan, the son of Arphaxad, the son of Shem, the son of Noah, the son of Lamech, 37the son of MethuSelah, the son of Enoch, the son of Jared, the son of Mahalaleel, the son of Cainan, 38the son of Enosh, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God.

Summary Key Points:

  1. A Genealogy of Hope: The genealogy in Luke’s Gospel serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness throughout history. By tracing Jesus’ lineage back to Adam, Luke emphasizes Jesus’ humanity and His connection to all humanity, presenting Him as the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a Savior.
  2. Inclusion of Gentiles: Unlike Matthew’s genealogy, which emphasizes Jesus’ legal descent from David through Joseph, Luke’s genealogy highlights Jesus’ universal mission by including Gentile ancestors. Through figures like Adam, the ancestor of all humanity, and Noah, the survivor of the global flood, Luke underscores Jesus’ role as the Savior of all people, Jew and Gentile alike.
  3. Fulfillment of Prophecy: The genealogy culminates in Jesus, the Son of God, whose birth fulfills the Messianic promises of the Old Testament. As the descendant of David, Jesus embodies the fulfillment of God’s covenant with David, promising an eternal kingdom ruled by the Messiah.

Call to Action:

  1. Reflect on Your Spiritual Heritage: Take time to reflect on your spiritual lineage and the faithfulness of God throughout generations. Consider the ways in which God has worked in your family’s history to bring about His purposes and extend His grace.
  2. Embrace Your Identity in Christ: Just as Jesus’ genealogy anchors His identity and mission, let your identity be rooted in Christ. Recognize that as a follower of Jesus, you are part of God’s redemptive plan, called to live out His purposes and share His love with others.
  3. Share the Good News: As heirs of God’s promises through Christ, embrace the responsibility to share the gospel with others. Like the generations before us who faithfully passed down the message of salvation, let us boldly proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ to a world in need of hope and redemption.

4. Trust in God’s Providence: Reflect on the truth that God’s plans for your life may extend far beyond your own view or even your own lifetime. Trust in His providence and sovereignty, knowing that He orchestrates events across generations to fulfill His purposes. Surrender your plans to His perfect will, seeking to align your life with His greater redemptive plan.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the rich tapestry of Your providence displayed in Jesus’ genealogy. Help us to appreciate the significance of our spiritual heritage and to live out our identity as Your children with boldness and conviction. May we faithfully carry forward the message of salvation to future generations, declaring Your faithfulness and love to all. 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, Fear / Reverence for God, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Tribulation, Worry/Anxiety, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

The Unfathomable Power of God (Job 41)

Have you ever been confronted with the incomprehensible power and majesty of God, leaving you humbled by the realization of His unfathomable greatness?

In Job 41, we encounter God’s vivid description of the Leviathan, a mighty creature that serves as a powerful symbol of His sovereignty over all creation.

Reconnect: Job’s journey through suffering and questioning leads him to a profound encounter with God’s presence and power. In the midst of his anguish, God reveals Himself in all His splendor, challenging Job to consider the mysteries of His creation and the limits of human understanding and embrace humility before God.

(Summarized and continued  after scripture)

Job 41

God’s Power Shown in Creatures

1“Can you draw out Leviathan with a fishhook?
Or press down his tongue with a cord?

      2“Can you put a rope in his nose
Or pierce his jaw with a hook?

      3“Will he make many supplications to you,
Or will he speak to you soft words?

      4“Will he make a covenant with you?
Will you take him for a servant forever?

      5“Will you play with him as with a bird,
Or will you bind him for your maidens?

      6“Will the traders bargain over him?
Will they divide him among the merchants?

      7“Can you fill his skin with harpoons,
Or his head with fishing spears?

      8“Lay your hand on him;
Remember the battle; you will not do it again!

      9“Behold, your expectation is false;
Will you be laid low even at the sight of him?

      10“No one is so fierce that he dares to arouse him;
Who then is he that can stand before Me?

      11“Who has given to Me that I should repay him?
Whatever is under the whole heaven is Mine.

      12“I will not keep silence concerning his limbs,
Or his mighty strength, or his orderly frame.

      13“Who can strip off his outer armor?
Who can come within his double mail?

      14“Who can open the doors of his face?
Around his teeth there is terror.

      15“His strong scales are his pride,
Shut up as with a tight seal.

      16“One is so near to another
That no air can come between them.

      17“They are joined one to another;
They clasp each other and cannot be separated.

      18“His sneezes flash forth light,
And his eyes are like the eyelids of the morning.

      19“Out of his mouth go burning torches;
Sparks of fire leap forth.

      20“Out of his nostrils smoke goes forth
As from a boiling pot and burning rushes.

      21“His breath kindles coals,
And a flame goes forth from his mouth.

      22“In his neck lodges strength,
And dismay leaps before him.

      23“The folds of his flesh are joined together,
Firm on him and immovable.

      24“His heart is as hard as a stone,
Even as hard as a lower millstone.

      25“When he raises himself up, the mighty fear;
Because of the crashing they are bewildered.

      26“The sword that reaches him cannot avail,
Nor the spear, the dart or the javelin.

      27“He regards iron as straw,
Bronze as rotten wood.

      28“The arrow cannot make him flee;
Slingstones are turned into stubble for him.

      29“Clubs are regarded as stubble;
He laughs at the rattling of the javelin.

      30“His underparts are like sharp potsherds;
He spreads out like a threshing sledge on the mire.

      31“He makes the depths boil like a pot;
He makes the sea like a jar of ointment.

      32“Behind him he makes a wake to shine;
One would think the deep to be gray-haired.

      33“Nothing on earth is like him,
One made without fear.

      34“He looks on everything that is high;
He is king over all the sons of pride.”

Summary Key Points:

  1. God’s Description of Leviathan: In Job 41, God invites Job to consider the Leviathan, a fearsome creature of the deep. Through vivid imagery and detailed description, God illustrates the Leviathan’s strength, invincibility, and untamable nature, emphasizing His authority over even the most formidable forces of the natural world.
  2. Leviathan as a Symbol of God’s Sovereignty: Scholars interpret the Leviathan as a symbolic representation of God’s unrivaled power and sovereignty. Just as the Leviathan is beyond human control, so too is God beyond the grasp of human comprehension. His ways are higher than ours, and His power knows no bounds.
  3. Job’s Response: Faced with God’s vivid depiction of the Leviathan and the revelation of His incomprehensible greatness, Job responds with humility and reverence. He acknowledges the limits of his understanding and surrenders to God’s sovereignty, recognizing that only God holds the answers to life’s deepest mysteries.

Call to Action: As we reflect on the portrayal of the Leviathan in Job 41, let us:

  1. Embrace Humility: Like Job, let us humbly acknowledge the limits of our understanding and the unfathomable greatness of God. May we approach Him with reverence and awe, recognizing His sovereignty over all creation.
  2. Trust in God’s Sovereignty: In moments of uncertainty and doubt, let us trust in the sovereignty of God, knowing that He is in control of all things. May we find peace in His unfailing power and rest in the assurance of His perfect plan.
  3. Stand in Awe: As we contemplate the majesty of God revealed in Job 41, let us stand in awe of His greatness and offer Him our heartfelt worship and praise.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your unfathomable power and sovereignty revealed in the portrayal of the Leviathan. Help us to embrace humility, trust in Your sovereignty, and stand in reverent awe of Your greatness. May our lives bring glory to Your name, now and forevermore. 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 Knowing, All Powerful / King of All, Depression / Discouragement, Faith / Trusting God, Fear / Reverence for God, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Humility, Tribulation, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Reflecting on God’s Sovereign Majesty (Job 40)

Have you ever stood in awe of the majestic power and sovereignty of God, realizing the vastness of His wisdom and might compared to our limited understanding?

In Job 40, we are confronted with the incomparable greatness of God as He reveals Himself to Job in a whirlwind, inviting us to humbly acknowledge His unmatched authority over all creation.

Reconnect: In the book of Job, we witness a profound dialogue between Job, a righteous man who faces immense suffering, and his friends who attempt to make sense of his plight. As the debate unfolds, God intervenes to offer His perspective on the mysteries of His ways and the universe He has created.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Job 40

Job: What Can I Say?

      1Then the LORD said to Job,

      2“Will the faultfinder contend with the Almighty?
Let him who reproves God answer it.”

      3Then Job answered the LORD and said,

      4“Behold, I am insignificant; what can I reply to You?
I lay my hand on my mouth.

      5“Once I have spoken, and I will not answer;
Even twice, and I will add nothing more.”

God Questions Job

      6Then the LORD answered Job out of the storm and said,

      7“Now gird up your loins like a man;
I will ask you, and you instruct Me.

      8“Will you really annul My judgment?
Will you condemn Me that you may be justified?

      9“Or do you have an arm like God,
And can you thunder with a voice like His?

      10“Adorn yourself with eminence and dignity,
And clothe yourself with honor and majesty.

      11“Pour out the overflowings of your anger,
And look on everyone who is proud, and make him low.

      12“Look on everyone who is proud, and humble him,
And tread down the wicked where they stand.

      13“Hide them in the dust together;
Bind them in the hidden place.

      14“Then I will also confess to you,
That your own right hand can save you.

God’s Power Shown in Creatures

15“Behold now, Behemoth, which I made as well as you;
He eats grass like an ox.

      16“Behold now, his strength in his loins
And his power in the muscles of his belly.

      17“He bends his tail like a cedar;
The sinews of his thighs are knit together.

      18“His bones are tubes of bronze;
His limbs are like bars of iron.

      19“He is the first of the ways of God;
Let his maker bring near his sword.

      20“Surely the mountains bring him food,
And all the beasts of the field play there.

      21“Under the lotus plants he lies down,
In the covert of the reeds and the marsh.

      22“The lotus plants cover him with shade;
The willows of the brook surround him.

      23“If a river rages, he is not alarmed;
He is confident, though the Jordan rushes to his mouth.

      24“Can anyone capture him when he is on watch,
With barbs can anyone pierce his nose?

Summary Key Points:

  1. God’s Challenge to Job: In Job 40, God addresses Job out of the whirlwind, challenging him to brace himself like a man and prepare to answer His questions. God’s rhetorical questions serve to remind Job of his finite understanding and the limitations of human wisdom compared to the boundless wisdom of the Creator.
  2. Behemoth: As God continues to speak, He draws Job’s attention to the Behemoth, a mighty creature of His creation. Scholars interpret Behemoth as a symbol of God’s sovereignty over the natural world, representing His authority and power to govern all creatures, great and small.
  3. Job’s Response: Faced with God’s awe-inspiring presence and the revelation of His sovereignty, Job responds with humility and reverence. He acknowledges his unworthiness to question God’s ways and submits to His divine authority, recognizing that only God holds the answers to life’s mysteries.

Call to Action: As we contemplate the revelations found in Job 40, let us:

  1. Embrace Humility: Like Job, let us humbly acknowledge our limited understanding and submit to God’s sovereignty over our lives. May we recognize that His ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are beyond our comprehension.
  2. Trust in God’s Wisdom: In moments of uncertainty and doubt, let us trust in the wisdom and providence of God, knowing that He holds the universe in His hands and works all things according to His perfect plan.
  3. Stand in Awe: As we reflect on the majesty of God revealed in Job 40, let us stand in awe of His greatness and offer Him our heartfelt worship and praise.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your sovereign majesty revealed in the whirlwind of Job 40. Help us to embrace humility, trust in Your wisdom, and stand in reverent awe of Your greatness. May our lives bring glory to Your name, now and forevermore. 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 Knowing, All Powerful / King of All, Creation, Depression / Discouragement, Discipline / Guidance From God, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Humility, Wise, Worry/Anxiety

God’s Answer to Job (Job 38)

Have you ever found yourself questioning things in life you don’t understand, seeking answers to the unanswerable?

In Job 38, we witness a profound moment as God breaks His silence to respond to Job’s inquiries, offering insights that transcend human understanding and humbly remind us of the folly of human wisdom compared to the infinite understanding of our Creator.

Reconnect: Before delving into Job 38, it’s crucial to remember the context of the dialogue between Job and his friends. After enduring suffering and grappling with profound questions of justice and righteousness, Job has voiced his frustrations and yearned for answers. Now, as God Himself speaks, we are invited to witness the divine response to Job’s inquiries.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 38

God Speaks Now to Job

      1Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind and said,

      2“Who is this that darkens counsel
By words without knowledge?

      3“Now gird up your loins like a man,
And I will ask you, and you instruct Me!

      4“Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?
Tell Me, if you have understanding,

      5Who set its measurements? Since you know.
Or who stretched the line on it?

      6“On what were its bases sunk?
Or who laid its cornerstone,

      7When the morning stars sang together
And all the sons of God shouted for joy?

      8“Or who enclosed the sea with doors
When, bursting forth, it went out from the womb;

      9When I made a cloud its garment
And thick darkness its swaddling band,

      10And I placed boundaries on it
And set a bolt and doors,

      11And I said, ‘Thus far you shall come, but no farther;
And here shall your proud waves stop’?

God’s Mighty Power

12“Have you ever in your life commanded the morning,
And caused the dawn to know its place,

      13That it might take hold of the ends of the earth,
And the wicked be shaken out of it?

      14“It is changed like clay under the seal;
And they stand forth like a garment.

      15“From the wicked their light is withheld,
And the uplifted arm is broken.

      16“Have you entered into the springs of the sea
Or walked in the recesses of the deep?

      17“Have the gates of death been revealed to you,
Or have you seen the gates of deep darkness?

      18“Have you understood the expanse of the earth?
Tell Me, if you know all this.

      19“Where is the way to the dwelling of light?
And darkness, where is its place,

      20That you may take it to its territory
And that you may discern the paths to its home?

      21“You know, for you were born then,
And the number of your days is great!

      22“Have you entered the storehouses of the snow,
Or have you seen the storehouses of the hail,

      23Which I have reserved for the time of distress,
For the day of war and battle?

      24“Where is the way that the light is divided,
Or the east wind scattered on the earth?

      25“Who has cleft a channel for the flood,
Or a way for the thunderbolt,

      26To bring rain on a land without people,
On a desert without a man in it,

      27To satisfy the waste and desolate land
And to make the seeds of grass to sprout?

      28“Has the rain a father?
Or who has begotten the drops of dew?

      29“From whose womb has come the ice?
And the frost of heaven, who has given it birth?

      30“Water becomes hard like stone,
And the surface of the deep is imprisoned.

      31“Can you bind the chains of the Pleiades,
Or loose the cords of Orion?

      32“Can you lead forth a constellation in its season,
And guide the Bear with her satellites?

      33“Do you know the ordinances of the heavens,
Or fix their rule over the earth?

      34“Can you lift up your voice to the clouds,
So that an abundance of water will cover you?

      35“Can you send forth lightnings that they may go
And say to you, ‘Here we are’?

      36“Who has put wisdom in the innermost being
Or given understanding to the mind?

      37“Who can count the clouds by wisdom,
Or tip the water jars of the heavens,

      38When the dust hardens into a mass
And the clods stick together?

      39“Can you hunt the prey for the lion,
Or satisfy the appetite of the young lions,

      40When they crouch in their dens
And lie in wait in their lair?

      41“Who prepares for the raven its nourishment
When its young cry to God
And wander about without food?

Summary Key Points:

1. The Majesty of Creation: God’s response to Job begins with a series of questions that highlight the majesty and intricacy of creation. From the foundations of the earth to the vastness of the cosmos, God’s sovereign power and wisdom are on full display, challenging Job to contemplate the wonders of His handiwork.

2. Humility Before the Creator: As God continues His discourse, He calls attention to the limitations of human understanding and the folly of trying to comprehend His ways. Job is reminded of his finite perspective compared to God’s infinite wisdom, prompting a humbling acknowledgment of the Creator’s sovereignty.

3. Trusting in Divine Providence: Through His response, God invites Job to trust in His providence and sovereignty, even in the face of life’s uncertainties and hardships. While human understanding may be limited, God’s purposes are ultimately just and righteous, calling for a posture of trust and surrender.

Call to Action:

  • Embracing Humility: Let us embrace humility in our quest for understanding, recognizing the limitations of human wisdom and the vastness of God’s knowledge. May we approach life’s mysteries with reverence and awe, trusting in the wisdom of the Creator.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, as we ponder the mysteries of Your creation and the depths of Your wisdom, grant us humility and reverence. Help us to trust in Your providence, even when we cannot comprehend Your ways. May Your presence guide us through life’s uncertainties, and may we find peace in surrendering to Your will. 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.

Depression / Discouragement, His Timing Not Ours, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Strong in Our Weakness, Tribulation, Worry/Anxiety

Seeking God’s Swift Deliverance (Psalm 70)

Have you ever found yourself in urgent need, crying out to God for swift deliverance from life’s trials and tribulations?

In Psalm 70, the psalmist expresses a fervent plea for God’s immediate intervention, a cry that resonates with anyone who has felt the weight of adversity pressing upon them.

Reconnect: In Psalm 70, the urgency of the psalmist’s plea underscores the reality of human frailty and the profound need for divine assistance. As we delve into this heartfelt prayer, we’re reminded of our own vulnerability and the unwavering hope we find in God’s saving grace.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 70

Prayer for Help against Persecutors.

For the choir director. A Psalm of David; for a memorial.

1O God, hasten to deliver me;
O LORD, hasten to my help!
2Let those be ashamed and humiliated
Who seek my life;
Let those be turned back and dishonored
Who delight in my hurt.
3Let those be turned back because of their shame
Who say, “Aha, aha!”
4Let all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You;
And let those who love Your salvation say continually,
“Let God be magnified.”
5But I am afflicted and needy;
Hasten to me, O God!
You are my help and my deliverer;
O LORD, do not delay.

Summary Key Points:

  • A Cry for Help: The psalmist opens with an impassioned plea for God’s swift deliverance, acknowledging their desperate need for His intervention. The urgency of the request reflects the intensity of the psalmist’s distress, underscoring the immediacy of their need for divine assistance.
  • Confidence in God’s Salvation: Despite the psalmist’s dire circumstances, their prayer is infused with confidence in God’s faithfulness and power to save. They appeal to God’s righteousness and steadfast love, trusting that He will come to their aid and rescue them from their enemies.
  • A Call to Action: In the midst of adversity, the psalmist’s prayer serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of turning to God in times of trouble. Their example challenges us to cultivate a spirit of dependence on God’s grace and to seek His deliverance with unwavering faith.

Call to Action:

As we reflect on the plea for deliverance in Psalm 70, let us respond with:

  • Urgent Prayer: Like the psalmist, let us bring our deepest needs before God with urgency and sincerity, trusting in His power to save and deliver. May we cry out to Him in times of trouble, confident that He hears our prayers and responds with compassion.
  • Unwavering Trust: In the face of adversity, let us anchor our hope in God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. May we cling to His promises and trust in His unfailing goodness, knowing that He is our refuge and strength in every situation.
  • Active Waiting: While we await God’s deliverance, let us actively wait upon Him with expectant hearts and obedient spirits. May we surrender our anxieties and fears to Him, allowing His peace to guard our hearts and minds as we trust in His perfect timing.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, in times of trouble and distress, we turn to You as our source of strength and refuge. Hear our cries for help, O Lord, and deliver us swiftly from the challenges we face. Grant us the grace to trust in Your unfailing love and to wait upon Your perfect timing with unwavering faith. 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.

Consequences of Sin, Depression / Discouragement, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Justice / Judgment, Tribulation, Wickedness / Evil

Exploring the Mystery of God’s Justice: Why Are the Wicked Not Punished? (Job 24)

Have you ever pondered the apparent success of those who act wickedly, seemingly untouched by the consequences of their actions?

In the Book of Job, we encounter a chapter that delves into the mystery of why the wicked sometimes prosper while the innocent suffer. Job’s contemplation leads us to explore the ways of the wicked and the justice of God.

Reconnect: As we continue our journey through the Book of Job, we find Job still wrestling with his suffering, while his friends offer various explanations for his afflictions. Despite their debates, Job remains steadfast in declaring his innocence and in the pursuit of understanding God’s ways.

(Summarized and continued after the  scripture)

Job 24

Job Says God Seems to Ignore Wrongs

1“Why are times not stored up by the Almighty,
And why do those who know Him not see His days?

      2“Some remove the landmarks;
They seize and devour flocks.

      3“They drive away the donkeys of the orphans;
They take the widow’s ox for a pledge.

      4“They push the needy aside from the road;
The poor of the land are made to hide themselves altogether.

      5“Behold, as wild donkeys in the wilderness
They go forth seeking food in their activity,
As bread for their children in the desert.

      6“They harvest their fodder in the field
And glean the vineyard of the wicked.

      7“They spend the night naked, without clothing,
And have no covering against the cold.

      8“They are wet with the mountain rains
And hug the rock for want of a shelter.

      9“Others snatch the orphan from the breast,
And against the poor they take a pledge.

      10“They cause the poor to go about naked without clothing,
And they take away the sheaves from the hungry.

      11“Within the walls they produce oil;
They tread wine presses but thirst.

      12“From the city men groan,
And the souls of the wounded cry out;
Yet God does not pay attention to folly.

      13“Others have been with those who rebel against the light;
They do not want to know its ways
Nor abide in its paths.

      14“The murderer arises at dawn;
He kills the poor and the needy,
And at night he is as a thief.

      15“The eye of the adulterer waits for the twilight,
Saying, ‘No eye will see me.’
And he disguises his face.

      16“In the dark they dig into houses,
They shut themselves up by day;
They do not know the light.

      17“For the morning is the same to him as thick darkness,
For he is familiar with the terrors of thick darkness.

      18“They are insignificant on the surface of the water;
Their portion is cursed on the earth.
They do not turn toward the vineyards.

      19“Drought and heat consume the snow waters,
So does Sheol those who have sinned.

      20“A mother will forget him;
The worm feeds sweetly till he is no longer remembered.
And wickedness will be broken like a tree.

      21“He wrongs the barren woman
And does no good for the widow.

      22“But He drags off the valiant by His power;
He rises, but no one has assurance of life.

      23“He provides them with security, and they are supported;
And His eyes are on their ways.

      24“They are exalted a little while, then they are gone;
Moreover, they are brought low and like everything gathered up;
Even like the heads of grain they are cut off.

      25“Now if it is not so, who can prove me a liar,
And make my speech worthless?”

Summary Key Points:

  1. The Unpunished Wicked: In Job 24, Job questions why the wicked often seem to escape punishment for their deeds. He observes how they exploit the vulnerable, take advantage of the helpless, and go about their wickedness without apparent consequences. This perplexing reality prompts Job to reflect on the seeming absence of divine justice in the world.
  2. The Cry of the Afflicted: Amid his contemplation, Job highlights the cries of the oppressed and the afflicted. He emphasizes the anguish of those who suffer at the hands of the wicked, emphasizing their desperate pleas for relief. Job’s reflections draw attention to the harsh conditions endured by the innocent.
  3. God’s Timing and Justice: While Job acknowledges the apparent success of the wicked, he doesn’t lose sight of God’s ultimate justice. He recognizes that, even though justice may not be immediate, the wicked will face their reckoning in due time. Job’s insights remind us that God’s timing may differ from our own, but His justice is certain.
  4. Application for Our Lives: Job’s contemplation prompts us to consider the existence of wickedness and injustice in the world. It reminds us that we live in a fallen world where the wicked may sometimes prosper, and the innocent suffer. However, we are encouraged to maintain our faith in God’s ultimate justice, even when we cannot fully comprehend His ways.

Call to Action: Take a moment to reflect on the injustices you may have observed or experienced in the world. Just as Job questioned the ways of the wicked, consider how you can advocate for justice and support those who are oppressed. Pray for God’s guidance in seeking justice and trust in His ultimate plan for righteousness.

Additionally, share your thoughts and engage in discussions with friends and family about the complex issues of justice, wickedness, and the role of faith in navigating these challenges.

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.

Consequences of Sin, Depression / Discouragement, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Justice / Judgment, Tribulation

Contemplating the Prosperity of the Wicked (Job 21)

Have you ever been engaged in a deep conversation where your find yourself responding to something hurtful that someone else has said to you?

Job finds himself in such a conversation as he responds to the arguments put forth by his friends. In Job 21, we delve into Job’s contemplation of the prosperity of the wicked, which serves as a counter-argument to his friends’ assertions.

Reconnect: In the previous chapter, we witnessed Zophar, one of Job’s friends, presenting his perspective on the fate of the wicked. Zophar discussed the apparent success of the wicked and their eventual downfall, emphasizing divine judgment. Job now responds to these ideas, providing a unique perspective on the topic.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Job 21

Job Says God Will Deal with the Wicked

      1Then Job answered,

      2“Listen carefully to my speech,
And let this be your way of consolation.

      3“Bear with me that I may speak;
Then after I have spoken, you may mock.

      4“As for me, is my complaint to man?
And why should I not be impatient?

      5“Look at me, and be astonished,
And put your hand over your mouth.

      6“Even when I remember, I am disturbed,
And horror takes hold of my flesh.

      7“Why do the wicked still live,
Continue on, also become very powerful?

      8“Their descendants are established with them in their sight,
And their offspring before their eyes,

      9Their houses are safe from fear,
And the rod of God is not on them.

      10“His ox mates without fail;
His cow calves and does not abort.

      11“They send forth their little ones like the flock,
And their children skip about.

      12“They sing to the timbrel and harp
And rejoice at the sound of the flute.

      13“They spend their days in prosperity,
And suddenly they go down to Sheol.

      14“They say to God, ‘Depart from us!
We do not even desire the knowledge of Your ways.

      15‘Who is the Almighty, that we should serve Him,
And what would we gain if we entreat Him?’

      16“Behold, their prosperity is not in their hand;
The counsel of the wicked is far from me.

      17“How often is the lamp of the wicked put out,
Or does their calamity fall on them?
Does God apportion destruction in His anger?

      18“Are they as straw before the wind,
And like chaff which the storm carries away?

      19“You say, ‘God stores away a man’s iniquity for his sons.’
Let God repay him so that he may know it.

      20“Let his own eyes see his decay,
And let him drink of the wrath of the Almighty.

      21“For what does he care for his household after him,
When the number of his months is cut off?

      22“Can anyone teach God knowledge,
In that He judges those on high?

      23“One dies in his full strength,
Being wholly at ease and satisfied;

      24His sides are filled out with fat,
And the marrow of his bones is moist,

      25While another dies with a bitter soul,
Never even tasting anything good.

      26“Together they lie down in the dust,
And worms cover them.

      27“Behold, I know your thoughts,
And the plans by which you would wrong me.

      28“For you say, ‘Where is the house of the nobleman,
And where is the tent, the dwelling places of the wicked?’

      29“Have you not asked wayfaring men,
And do you not recognize their witness?

      30“For the wicked is reserved for the day of calamity;
They will be led forth at the day of fury.

      31“Who will confront him with his actions,
And who will repay him for what he has done?

      32“While he is carried to the grave,
Men will keep watch over his tomb.

      33“The clods of the valley will gently cover him;
Moreover, all men will follow after him,
While countless ones go before him.

      34“How then will you vainly comfort me,
For your answers remain full of falsehood?”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Counter-Argument: Job offers a thought-provoking counter-argument to his friends’ assertions about the fate of the wicked. He acknowledges the reality that, at times, the wicked do indeed prosper, enjoying long lives, secure households, flourishing children, and abundant possessions.
  2. Questioning Divine Justice: Job’s response raises profound questions about divine justice. He wonders aloud why the wicked appear to escape suffering while they mock God and live without fear of divine retribution.
  3. The Unpredictability of Life: Job highlights the unpredictability of life, where both the righteous and the wicked may face suffering or prosperity, challenging the simplistic views of his friends.

Job’s response encourages us to reflect on the complexities of life and divine justice. Have you ever grappled with the apparent prosperity of those who seem far from righteous? Take time to pray and seek God’s wisdom in understanding the mysteries of life’s experiences and His divine plan.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we humbly seek Your wisdom and guidance as we navigate life’s complexities. Help us to understand the mysteries of Your divine justice and the unpredictable nature of our journey. Grant us discernment and a heart filled with compassion. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion: Share your thoughts on the questions raised by Job’s response. Have you ever questioned why the wicked appear to prosper while living in defiance of God? Engage in meaningful discussions with friends and family, and feel free to share your reflections in the comments below.

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.

Guide, His Timing Not Ours, Salvation, Seeking God, Submitted / Servant

He Who Began a Good Work In You Will Perfect It

For those who are called by God to be reborn in Christ, and who take on such pursuit with humility, we can take great comfort that our Father will complete in us what He begins if we are obedient and submitted vessels for His use. We need not fear that He will start a work in us and then leave us unfinished. We may need to be patient, however, as His timing is not always the same as our timing… it usually is not the same.

Philippians 1:6

6For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.

Philippians 2:12-13

  12So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; 13for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.

It is not so simple as just a prayer and one time submission to Christ. Yahweh transforms us over time. It is more of a crock pot than a microwave. We begin a journey and must continue in submission and obedience to His prompting. He will help us to work out our salvation and transformation from the life of sin and self to submission to Him as Lord. He will not abandon us halfway in our journey. All we must do is see to it that we remain obedient and wholeheartedly seeking Him. This also means that we are not idle waiting for Him to transform us, but rather we are seeking Him in prayer and Bible study. We are taking what we learn and changing our lives to reflect His instruction.

—-

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

Discipline / Guidance From God, Faithful, Fear / Reverence for God, Grace / Forgiveness, His Timing Not Ours, Justice / Judgment, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

What God Declares Will Come to Pass

Whether or not we agree with or like what God has declared, He is still in control. In Jeremiah 39, we see the culmination of the fall of Jerusalem which was prophesied by Jeremiah. King Zedekiah and others in Jerusalem did not want or believe this would happen. What God declares, however, will come to pass.

Jeremiah was spared because of his trust in the LORD.

Take time to reflect on how this may apply in your life today. Our city may not be under siege, but we still have things God will pour into our lives. Some we may not want to hear and some may fill us with hope. We should put our trust in God in either case. Repent when called for and call for grace and mercy.

Sometimes, even if what He promises is good, we may struggle because it takes so long to come about. Remain faithful. Hold on to your hope in what the LORD has told you. Be patient, even when it is hard.

Jeremiah 39

Jerusalem Captured

      1Now when Jerusalem was captured in the ninth year of Zedekiah king of Judah, in the tenth month, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and all his army came to Jerusalem and laid siege to it; 2in the eleventh year of Zedekiah, in the fourth month, in the ninth day of the month, the city wall was breached. 3Then all the officials of the king of Babylon came in and sat down at the Middle Gate: Nergal-sar-ezer, Samgar-nebu, Sar-sekim the Rab-saris, Nergal-sar-ezer the Rab-mag, and all the rest of the officials of the king of Babylon. 4When Zedekiah the king of Judah and all the men of war saw them, they fled and went out of the city at night by way of the king’s garden through the gate between the two walls; and he went out toward the Arabah. 5But the army of the Chaldeans pursued them and overtook Zedekiah in the plains of Jericho; and they seized him and brought him up to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon at Riblah in the land of Hamath, and he passed sentence on him. 6Then the king of Babylon slew the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes at Riblah; the king of Babylon also slew all the nobles of Judah. 7He then blinded Zedekiah’s eyes and bound him in fetters of bronze to bring him to Babylon. 8The Chaldeans also burned with fire the king’s palace and the houses of the people, and they broke down the walls of Jerusalem. 9As for the rest of the people who were left in the city, the deserters who had gone over to him and the rest of the people who remained, Nebuzaradan the captain of the bodyguard carried them into exile in Babylon. 10But some of the poorest people who had nothing, Nebuzaradan the captain of the bodyguard left behind in the land of Judah, and gave them vineyards and fields at that time.


Jeremiah Spared

      11Now Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon gave orders about Jeremiah through Nebuzaradan the captain of the bodyguard, saying, 12“Take him and look after him, and do nothing harmful to him, but rather deal with him just as he tells you.” 13So Nebuzaradan the captain of the bodyguard sent word, along with Nebushazban the Rab-saris, and Nergal-sar-ezer the Rab-mag, and all the leading officers of the king of Babylon; 14they even sent and took Jeremiah out of the court of the guardhouse and entrusted him to Gedaliah, the son of Ahikam, the son of Shaphan, to take him home. So he stayed among the people.

      15Now the word of the LORD had come to Jeremiah while he was confined in the court of the guardhouse, saying, 16“Go and speak to Ebed-melech the Ethiopian, saying, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, “Behold, I am about to bring My words on this city for disaster and not for prosperity; and they will take place before you on that day. 17“But I will deliver you on that day,” declares the LORD, “and you will not be given into the hand of the men whom you dread. 18“For I will certainly rescue you, and you will not fall by the sword; but you will have your own life as booty, because you have trusted in Me,” declares the LORD.’”

We can be sure that the best course of action is to trust in the LORD, even when it seems hard. Take a moment to praise Him for being so trustworthy! Find your rest in God and keep pursuing what He tells you to do.

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

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