Category Archives: Hearing from God

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Submitted / Servant, Visions

The Crown and the Branch (Zechariah 6)

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God is not finished with His people—He is building His temple, and Yeshua is both King and High Priest.

Key Verse:
“It is He who will build the temple of the Lord, and He who will bear the honor and sit and rule on His throne. Thus, He will be a priest on His throne, and the counsel of peace will be between the two offices.” —Zechariah 6:13 (NASB)

Background Context:
Zechariah 6 concludes the prophet’s visions with a powerful image: four chariots emerging between two bronze mountains, representing God’s judgment being carried out over the whole earth. The vision reminds us that God is sovereign and active in bringing justice and order to the nations.

But the chapter’s second part turns to a prophetic moment of hope. Joshua the high priest is crowned, not as a political king, but as a symbol of “the Branch” — a Messianic title pointing directly to Yeshua. This Branch will build the temple of the Lord, not a physical one made by human hands, but a spiritual temple made of living stones—His people. Yeshua will serve as both King and High Priest, roles previously divided under the old covenant.

This dual role is significant. As King, Yeshua rules in righteousness; as High Priest, He intercedes for us before the Father. In Him, justice and mercy meet.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Zechariah 6

The Four Chariots

      1Now I lifted up my eyes again and looked, and behold, four chariots were coming forth from between the two mountains; and the mountains were bronze mountains. 2With the first chariot were red horses, with the second chariot black horses, 3with the third chariot white horses, and with the fourth chariot strong dappled horses. 4Then I spoke and said to the angel who was speaking with me, “What are these, my lord?” 5The angel replied to me, “These are the four spirits of heaven, going forth after standing before the Lord of all the earth, 6with one of which the black horses are going forth to the north country; and the white ones go forth after them, while the dappled ones go forth to the south country. 7“When the strong ones went out, they were eager to go to patrol the earth.” And He said, “Go, patrol the earth.” So they patrolled the earth. 8Then He cried out to me and spoke to me saying, “See, those who are going to the land of the north have appeased My wrath in the land of the north.”

      9The word of the LORD also came to me, saying, 10“Take an offering from the exiles, from Heldai, Tobijah and Jedaiah; and you go the same day and enter the house of Josiah the son of Zephaniah, where they have arrived from Babylon.

The Symbolic Crowns

      11“Take silver and gold, make an ornate crown and set it on the head of Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest. 12“Then say to him, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts, “Behold, a man whose name is Branch, for He will branch out from where He is; and He will build the temple of the LORD. 13“Yes, it is He who will build the temple of the LORD, and He who will bear the honor and sit and rule on His throne. Thus, He will be a priest on His throne, and the counsel of peace will be between the two offices.”’ 14“Now the crown will become a reminder in the temple of the LORD to Helem, Tobijah, Jedaiah and Hen the son of Zephaniah. 15“Those who are far off will come and build the temple of the LORD.” Then you will know that the LORD of hosts has sent me to you. And it will take place if you completely obey the LORD your God.

Reflection on Zechariah 6:
This chapter gives us a profound glimpse into the identity and mission of the Messiah. He is not just our Savior—He is our King and our High Priest. No one else can unite these roles. His rule is perfect, and His intercession is eternal.

The coronation of Joshua foreshadowed the crowning of Yeshua, who wears many crowns (Revelation 19:12). The message is clear: God is establishing His kingdom, and it is through Yeshua alone that true peace, justice, and restoration come.

Are we letting Yeshua reign fully in our lives—not just as our Redeemer, but as our Ruler? Are we trusting in His ongoing intercession on our behalf?

Application:
Consider the areas of your life where you may still be clinging to control. Submit those areas to Yeshua, not only as your Savior but also as your King. Trust that He is building His temple—including you as part of it—and shaping you into His likeness. Worship Him with awe and reverence, knowing that His priesthood never ends.

Closing Prayer:
Yeshua, You are both my King and my High Priest. I praise You for ruling with justice and interceding with compassion. Help me to submit every part of my life to Your authority and trust in Your ongoing work in me. Use me as a living stone in Your temple and help me reflect Your holiness to the world. In Your name I pray, amen.

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

John Golda

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

Holy / Set Apart, Lying / Deceiving, Repenting from Sin, Stealing / Theft, Visions, Wickedness / Evil

The Flying Scroll: A Warning Against Sin (Zechariah 5)

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Sin will not go unnoticed or unpunished in the eyes of the Lord.

Key Verse:
“Then he said to me, ‘This is the curse that is going forth over the face of the whole land; surely everyone who steals will be purged away according to the writing on one side, and everyone who swears falsely will be purged away according to the writing on the other side.’” —Zechariah 5:3 (NASB)

Background Context:
Zechariah 5 presents two powerful visions: a flying scroll and a woman in a basket. These visions emphasize God’s coming judgment against sin among His people. The flying scroll represents a curse against those who commit two specific offenses: stealing and bearing false witness—both direct violations of God’s commandments. The imagery underscores that sin corrupts the land and its people, and God will not allow it to remain.

The second vision shows wickedness being personified and sealed inside a basket, carried away to a distant land—likely symbolizing Babylon—showing that sin will ultimately be removed from among God’s people and dealt with according to His perfect justice.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Zechariah 5

The Flying Scroll

      1Then I lifted up my eyes again and looked, and behold, there was a flying scroll. 2And he said to me, “What do you see?” And I answered, “I see a flying scroll; its length is twenty cubits and its width ten cubits.” 3Then he said to me, “This is the curse that is going forth over the face of the whole land; surely everyone who steals will be purged away according to the writing on one side, and everyone who swears will be purged away according to the writing on the other side. 4“I will make it go forth,” declares the LORD of hosts, “and it will enter the house of the thief and the house of the one who swears falsely by My name; and it will spend the night within that house and consume it with its timber and stones.”

      5Then the angel who was speaking with me went out and said to me, “Lift up now your eyes and see what this is going forth.” 6I said, “What is it?” And he said, “This is the ephah going forth.” Again he said, “This is their appearance in all the land 7(and behold, a lead cover was lifted up); and this is a woman sitting inside the ephah.” 8Then he said, “This is Wickedness!” And he threw her down into the middle of the ephah and cast the lead weight on its opening. 9Then I lifted up my eyes and looked, and there two women were coming out with the wind in their wings; and they had wings like the wings of a stork, and they lifted up the ephah between the earth and the heavens. 10I said to the angel who was speaking with me, “Where are they taking the ephah?” 11Then he said to me, “To build a temple for her in the land of Shinar; and when it is prepared, she will be set there on her own pedestal.”

Reflection on Zechariah 5:
This chapter reminds us that sin is not a small thing to be ignored or tolerated. YHWH sees all and will bring judgment upon unrepentant sin. Even among His people, God calls for righteousness, honesty, and faithfulness.

While we are saved by grace through Yeshua, we are still called to live holy lives, demonstrating obedience to God’s ways. This vision should stir in us a healthy fear of the Lord and a deep commitment to repent of any sin we are tolerating in our lives. It should also encourage us that God will not allow wickedness to flourish forever. He will purify His people.

Application:
Examine your heart honestly. Are there areas where sin has crept in—perhaps through dishonesty, selfishness, or compromised integrity? Bring these before the Lord in repentance. Ask for His cleansing and strength to walk uprightly. Be diligent to remove sin from your life rather than making excuses for it. Trust that God’s refining work is for your good and His glory.

Closing Prayer:
Father, I acknowledge that nothing is hidden from Your sight. I ask You to reveal any hidden sin in my heart and help me to repent fully. Cleanse me by Your Spirit and make me holy as You are holy. Strengthen me to walk in truth and righteousness, reflecting Your light to the world around me. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Church / Body of Christ, Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Jesus (hearing from God), Obeying God, Seeking God, Study the Word

The Law, Grace, and Truth—All Working Together (John 1:14-18)

Have we misunderstood what Yeshua said about the Law?

Many today believe that grace through Yeshua replaced the Law given through Moses. However, Scripture tells a different story—one of fulfillment, not replacement. The Law was given through Moses, but grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. These two are not in opposition but work together as part of God’s unchanging plan. Yeshua Himself made it clear that He did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it, and not even the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished.

Key Verse:
“For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ.” – John 1:17 (NASB)

Background Context:
John 1:14-18 reveals the incredible truth that the Word—Yeshua—became flesh and dwelt among us. He brought grace and truth, fulfilling what had been spoken of Him throughout the Scriptures. This does not mean that He replaced the Law, but rather, that He embodied its perfect fulfillment.

Matthew 5:17-19 reinforces this by explicitly stating that Yeshua did not come to abolish the Law, but to fulfill it. He warns that anyone who annuls even the least of the commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, while those who keep and teach them will be great. This passage directly contradicts the modern misconception that the Law is obsolete.

Peter also warned that Paul’s writings were hard to understand and that many misinterpret them to their own destruction (2 Peter 3:14-16). If a seeming contradiction arises between Paul’s letters and Yeshua’s direct words, should we not take Yeshua’s words as our foundation? After all, He is the living Word of God.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 1:14-18

The Word Made Flesh

      14And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.15John testified about Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.’” 16For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. 17For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. 18No one has seen God at any time; the only begotten God who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained Him.

Matthew 5:17-19

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

Reflection on John 1:14-18 and Matthew 5:17-19

Grace and Truth in Christ (John 1:14-18)

  • Yeshua, the Word made flesh, came full of grace and truth—not replacing the Law but completing it.
  • Grace does not mean lawlessness; it means receiving undeserved favor while still being called to obedience.

The Law Still Stands (Matthew 5:17-19)

  • Yeshua explicitly states that He did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it.
  • The Law remains in effect until all is accomplished, which includes His return and the final restoration of all things.
  • Our obedience to YHWH’s commands directly impacts our standing in the kingdom of heaven.

Misinterpretation of Paul’s Writings

  • Peter warns that Paul’s letters are difficult to understand and that many distort them (2 Peter 3:14-16).
  • If we find something in Paul’s writings that appears to contradict Yeshua, we must be diligent in our study and align our understanding with Yeshua’s clear words.

Are We Testing What We Have Been Taught?

  • Many church traditions teach that the Law is no longer relevant, but Yeshua’s words challenge that assumption.
  • We must be diligent to study Scripture for ourselves rather than simply accepting traditions that contradict it.

Summary Key Points

  • Yeshua did not replace the Law but fulfilled it, demonstrating its true purpose.
  • The Law remains in effect until all is accomplished—Yeshua’s return and final restoration.
  • Those who keep and teach God’s commandments will be great in His kingdom.
  • Paul’s writings should be carefully interpreted in light of Yeshua’s direct teaching.
  • We must test church traditions and teachings against Scripture to ensure they align with God’s unchanging truth.

Application

  • Spend time studying both the Old and New Testaments to see how they fit together.
  • When faced with difficult teachings, ask yourself, Does this align with Yeshua’s words?
  • Strive to walk in obedience to God’s commands, knowing that grace empowers us to live righteously, not lawlessly.
  • Pray for discernment to distinguish between biblical truth and man-made traditions.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word, which is both grace and truth. Help me to fully understand Yeshua’s teachings and to follow His example. Give me wisdom and discernment as I study Scripture so that I do not fall into misunderstanding. Let me walk in obedience, not because I am earning salvation, but because I love You and desire to honor You. May my life reflect Your ways and bring others closer to You. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Discipline / Guidance From God, Justice / Judgment, Prophecy, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God, Through Prophets

A Famine for Hearing the Word of the Lord (Amos 8)

What happens when we turn away from God’s Word and choose to walk in our own ways?

Amos 8 delivers a sobering message of judgment and a warning of a spiritual famine—not a lack of food or water but a famine of hearing the Word of the Lord. It calls us to reflect on the consequences of neglecting God’s truth and the urgent need to seek Him wholeheartedly.

Key Verse:
“‘The days are coming,’ declares the Sovereign Lord, ‘when I will send a famine through the land—not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the Lord.’” – Amos 8:11 (NIV)

Background Context:
Amos 8 is the fourth vision given to the prophet Amos, depicting a basket of ripe fruit symbolizing the end of Israel’s patience and the ripeness of their judgment. The chapter highlights Israel’s sins, including greed, exploitation of the poor, and disregard for God’s commands. The spiritual famine mentioned emphasizes the devastating impact of being separated from God’s truth and guidance.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Amos 8

Basket of Fruit and Israel’s Captivity

      1Thus the Lord GOD showed me, and behold, there was a basket of summer fruit. 2He said, “What do you see, Amos?” And I said, “A basket of summer fruit.” Then the LORD said to me, “The end has come for My people Israel. I will spare them no longer. 3“The songs of the palace will turn to wailing in that day,” declares the Lord GOD. “Many will be the corpses; in every place they will cast them forth in silence.”

      4Hear this, you who trample the needy, to do away with the humble of the land,

5saying,
“When will the new moon be over,
So that we may sell grain,
And the sabbath, that we may open the wheat market,
To make the bushel smaller and the shekel bigger,
And to cheat with dishonest scales,

      6So as to buy the helpless for money
And the needy for a pair of sandals,
And that we may sell the refuse of the wheat?”

      7The LORD has sworn by the pride of Jacob,
“Indeed, I will never forget any of their deeds.

      8“Because of this will not the land quake
And everyone who dwells in it mourn?
Indeed, all of it will rise up like the Nile,
And it will be tossed about
And subside like the Nile of Egypt.

      9“It will come about in that day,” declares the Lord GOD,
“That I will make the sun go down at noon
And make the earth dark in broad daylight.

      10“Then I will turn your festivals into mourning
And all your songs into lamentation;
And I will bring sackcloth on everyone’s loins
And baldness on every head.
And I will make it like a time of mourning for an only son,
And the end of it will be like a bitter day.

      11“Behold, days are coming,” declares the Lord GOD,
“When I will send a famine on the land,
Not a famine for bread or a thirst for water,
But rather for hearing the words of the LORD.

      12“People will stagger from sea to sea
And from the north even to the east;
They will go to and fro to seek the word of the LORD,
But they will not find it.

      13“In that day the beautiful virgins
And the young men will faint from thirst.

      14“As for those who swear by the guilt of Samaria,
Who say, ‘As your god lives, O Dan,’
And, ‘As the way of Beersheba lives,’
They will fall and not rise again.”

Reflection on Amos 8:

  • A Basket of Ripe Fruit:
    The vision of the ripe fruit symbolizes that Israel’s time of judgment has come (Amos 8:1-2). God’s patience had reached its limit due to their continued rebellion and sin. Are there areas in your life where you are testing God’s patience by neglecting His commands? Repent and turn back to Him today.
  • The Sins That Lead to Judgment:
    The chapter outlines Israel’s sins, including greed, dishonesty in business, and exploiting the poor (Amos 8:4-6). These actions reflected a heart far from God. Are you examining your actions and attitudes to ensure they align with God’s righteousness? Seek His guidance in living justly and compassionately.
  • A Famine of Hearing God’s Word:
    Verse 11 warns of a coming famine—not of food or water but of hearing the Word of the Lord. This reflects the dire consequences of neglecting God’s truth and living apart from His guidance. Are you prioritizing God’s Word in your life, or are you allowing other influences to take precedence? Make time daily to hear and meditate on His Word.
  • The Desperation of Spiritual Hunger:
    Amos 8:12 describes people wandering in search of God’s Word but not finding it. This highlights the spiritual emptiness and despair that come from being disconnected from Him. Are you feeding your soul with the nourishment of God’s Word, or are you spiritually starving? Commit to seeking Him wholeheartedly and consistently.
  • The Urgency of Turning Back to God:
    God’s warning through Amos is a call to repentance and a reminder of the urgency of returning to Him before it’s too late. Are you responding to His call with urgency, or are you delaying your obedience? Don’t wait—turn to Him today and embrace His truth.

Summary Key Points:

  • God’s Patience Has Limits: Don’t delay repentance; turn to Him today.
  • Sin Leads to Separation from God: Examine your actions and live according to His righteousness.
  • A Spiritual Famine Is Devastating: Prioritize hearing and obeying God’s Word daily.
  • Feed Your Soul with God’s Word: Seek Him wholeheartedly to avoid spiritual emptiness.
  • Respond to God’s Call with Urgency: Don’t put off repentance or neglect His truth.

Application:
Reflect on whether you are prioritizing God’s Word in your life. Are there areas where sin or neglect has distanced you from Him? Turn to God in repentance, seeking His truth and guidance with urgency. Feed your soul with His Word daily, and commit to living in alignment with His will.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word and the guidance it provides. Forgive us for times when we have neglected Your truth or allowed sin to separate us from You. Teach us to seek You wholeheartedly and to prioritize hearing and obeying Your Word. Help us live justly and compassionately, reflecting Your righteousness in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

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

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

Is God’s Law A Burden? (Part 4 of 4)

This post is the last in a four-part series about Psalm 119.

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible. It was written originally in Hebrew in a literary style that begins one section after another, each with the next letter of the aleph bet (Hebrew alphabet). It is beautiful and passionate. It focuses on the law of God. Read and digest all that it claims about the Law of God and then ask yourself, does it describe the law as burdensome? difficult? harsh? or does it describe it as quite different than that? Put aside what you think you know about the law from those who do not understand it and listen to how it is described by one who understood it well and loved our heavenly Father very deeply.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 119:137-176

Meditations and Prayers Relating to the Law of God.

Tsadhe.

     137Righteous are You, O LORD,
And upright are Your judgments.

      138You have commanded Your testimonies in righteousness
And exceeding faithfulness.

      139My zeal has consumed me,
Because my adversaries have forgotten Your words.

      140Your word is very pure,
Therefore Your servant loves it.

      141I am small and despised,
Yet I do not forget Your precepts.

      142Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,
And Your law is truth.

      143Trouble and anguish have come upon me,
Yet Your commandments are my delight.

      144Your testimonies are righteous forever;
Give me understanding that I may live.

Qoph.

     145I cried with all my heart; answer me, O LORD!
I will observe Your statutes.

      146I cried to You; save me
And I shall keep Your testimonies.

      147I rise before dawn and cry for help;
I wait for Your words.

      148My eyes anticipate the night watches,
That I may meditate on Your word.

      149Hear my voice according to Your lovingkindness;
Revive me, O LORD, according to Your ordinances.

      150Those who follow after wickedness draw near;
They are far from Your law.

      151You are near, O LORD,
And all Your commandments are truth.

      152Of old I have known from Your testimonies
That You have founded them forever.

Resh.

     153Look upon my affliction and rescue me,
For I do not forget Your law.

      154Plead my cause and redeem me;
Revive me according to Your word.

      155Salvation is far from the wicked,
For they do not seek Your statutes.

      156Great are Your mercies, O LORD;
Revive me according to Your ordinances.

      157Many are my persecutors and my adversaries,
Yet I do not turn aside from Your testimonies.

      158I behold the treacherous and loathe them,
Because they do not keep Your word.

      159Consider how I love Your precepts;
Revive me, O LORD, according to Your lovingkindness.

      160The sum of Your word is truth,
And every one of Your righteous ordinances is everlasting.

Shin.

     161Princes persecute me without cause,
But my heart stands in awe of Your words.

      162I rejoice at Your word,
As one who finds great spoil.

      163I hate and despise falsehood,
But I love Your law.

      164Seven times a day I praise You,
Because of Your righteous ordinances.

      165Those who love Your law have great peace,
And nothing causes them to stumble.

      166I hope for Your salvation, O LORD,
And do Your commandments.

      167My soul keeps Your testimonies,
And I love them exceedingly.

      168I keep Your precepts and Your testimonies,
For all my ways are before You.

Tav.

     169Let my cry come before You, O LORD;
Give me understanding according to Your word.

      170Let my supplication come before You;
Deliver me according to Your word.

      171Let my lips utter praise,
For You teach me Your statutes.

      172Let my tongue sing of Your word,
For all Your commandments are righteousness.

      173Let Your hand be ready to help me,
For I have chosen Your precepts.

      174I long for Your salvation, O LORD,
And Your law is my delight.

      175Let my soul live that it may praise You,
And let Your ordinances help me.

      176I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek Your servant,
For I do not forget Your commandments.

Just to reflect on a few of the things God’s word says about the law in today’s scripture: Your word is very pure and therefore your servant loves it, Your law is truth, Your commandments are my delight, I will observe Your statutes, I meditate on Your precepts, the wicked are far from Your law, revive me according to Your ordinances,  every one of Your righteous ordinances is everlasting, I love Your law, I praise You because of Your ordinances, those who love Your law have great peace and do not stumble, all Your commandments are righteousness, Your law is my delight, Your ordinances help me

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

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

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

To learn more:

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

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

Is God’s Law A Burden? (Psalm 119, Part 3 of 4)

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

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

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

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

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 119:89-136

Meditations and Prayers Relating to the Law of God.

Lamedh.

89Forever, O LORD,
Your word is settled in heaven.

      90Your faithfulness continues throughout all generations;
You established the earth, and it stands.

      91They stand this day according to Your ordinances,
For all things are Your servants.

      92If Your law had not been my delight,
Then I would have perished in my affliction.

      93I will never forget Your precepts,
For by them You have revived me.

      94I am Yours, save me;
For I have sought Your precepts.

      95The wicked wait for me to destroy me;
I shall diligently consider Your testimonies.

      96I have seen a limit to all perfection;
Your commandment is exceedingly broad.

Mem.

      97O how I love Your law!
It is my meditation all the day.

      98Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies,
For they are ever mine.

      99I have more insight than all my teachers,
For Your testimonies are my meditation.

      100I understand more than the aged,
Because I have observed Your precepts.

      101I have restrained my feet from every evil way,
That I may keep Your word.

      102I have not turned aside from Your ordinances,
For You Yourself have taught me.

      103How sweet are Your words to my taste!
Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!

      104From Your precepts I get understanding;
Therefore I hate every false way.

Nun.

     105Your word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path.

      106I have sworn and I will confirm it,
That I will keep Your righteous ordinances.

      107I am exceedingly afflicted;
Revive me, O LORD, according to Your word.

      108O accept the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD,
And teach me Your ordinances.

      109My life is continually in my hand,
Yet I do not forget Your law.

      110The wicked have laid a snare for me,
Yet I have not gone astray from Your precepts.

      111I have inherited Your testimonies forever,
For they are the joy of my heart.

      112I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes
Forever, even to the end.

Samekh.

     113I hate those who are double-minded,
But I love Your law.

      114You are my hiding place and my shield;
I wait for Your word.

      115Depart from me, evildoers,
That I may observe the commandments of my God.

      116Sustain me according to Your word, that I may live;
And do not let me be ashamed of my hope.

      117Uphold me that I may be safe,
That I may have regard for Your statutes continually.

      118You have rejected all those who wander from Your statutes,
For their deceitfulness is useless.

      119You have removed all the wicked of the earth like dross;
Therefore I love Your testimonies.

      120My flesh trembles for fear of You,
And I am afraid of Your judgments.

Ayin.

     121I have done justice and righteousness;
Do not leave me to my oppressors.

      122Be surety for Your servant for good;
Do not let the arrogant oppress me.

      123My eyes fail with longing for Your salvation
And for Your righteous word.

      124Deal with Your servant according to Your lovingkindness
And teach me Your statutes.

      125I am Your servant; give me understanding,
That I may know Your testimonies.

      126It is time for the LORD to act,
For they have broken Your law.

      127Therefore I love Your commandments
Above gold, yes, above fine gold.

      128Therefore I esteem right all Your precepts concerning everything,
I hate every false way.

Pe.

     129Your testimonies are wonderful;
Therefore my soul observes them.

      130The unfolding of Your words gives light;
It gives understanding to the simple.

      131I opened my mouth wide and panted,
For I longed for Your commandments.

      132Turn to me and be gracious to me,
After Your manner with those who love Your name.

      133Establish my footsteps in Your word,
And do not let any iniquity have dominion over me.

      134Redeem me from the oppression of man,
That I may keep Your precepts.

      135Make Your face shine upon Your servant,
And teach me Your statutes.

      136My eyes shed streams of water,
Because they do not keep Your law.

Just to reflect on a few of the things God’s word says about the law in today’s scripture: forever you word is settled in heaven, I would have perished if Your law had not been my delight, You have revived me by Your precepts, oh how I love Your law!, Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies, Your words are sweeter than honey, Your word is a lamp unto my feet, teach me Your statutes, give me understanding, I love Your commandments above gold, I esteem all Your precepts, the unfolding of Your word brings light and gives understanding to the simple, I longed for Your commandments

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

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

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

To learn more:

—-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 119:41-88

Meditations and Prayers Relating to the Law of God.

Vav.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zayin.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Heth.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Teth.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yodh.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kaph.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To learn more:

—-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Matthew 22:34-40

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

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

Matthew 5:17-19

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

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

Psalm 119:1-40

Meditations and Prayers Relating to the Law of God.

Aleph.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beth.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gimel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Daleth.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To learn more:

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

Compassionate, Faith / Trusting God, Healer, Miracles

Faith That Sees: Trusting in Jesus for Healing and Transformation (Luke 18:35-43)

What do you do when life seems dark and overwhelming?

In Luke 18:35-43, we see the power of persistent faith as Bartimaeus, a blind man, cries out to Jesus for healing and experiences a life-changing miracle.

Key Verse: “Jesus said to him, ‘Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.’” – Luke 18:42 (NIV)

Background Context: As Jesus approaches Jericho, a blind man, identified as Bartimaeus in Mark’s Gospel, is sitting by the roadside begging. He hears that Jesus is passing by and seizes the opportunity to cry out for mercy. Despite being rebuked and told to be quiet by those around him, Bartimaeus continues to cry out in faith, addressing Jesus as the “Son of David,” a messianic title. Jesus stops, calls him forward, and heals him, saying that his faith has made him well. Immediately, Bartimaeus regains his sight and follows Jesus, glorifying God. This powerful encounter demonstrates the transforming power of persistent faith and the willingness of Jesus to respond to those who call out to Him in desperation.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 18:35-43

Bartimaeus Receives Sight

     35As Jesus was approaching Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the road begging. 36Now hearing a crowd going by, he began to inquire what this was. 37They told him that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by. 38And he called out, saying, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 39Those who led the way were sternly telling him to be quiet; but he kept crying out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 40And Jesus stopped and commanded that he be brought to Him; and when he came near, He questioned him, 41“What do you want Me to do for you?” And he said, “Lord, I want to regain my sight!” 42And Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” 43Immediately he regained his sight and began following Him, glorifying God; and when all the people saw it, they gave praise to God.

Reflection on Luke 18:35-43:

  • A Cry for Mercy: Bartimaeus, sitting on the roadside in darkness, hears that Jesus is passing by. Immediately, he calls out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” (Luke 18:38). In this moment, we see Bartimaeus’ recognition of who Jesus is—he calls Him “Son of David,” acknowledging Him as the Messiah. Bartimaeus’ plea for mercy is an expression of both humility and faith. He knows he is powerless to change his condition and desperately calls out to the only One who can heal him. This challenges us to consider how we approach Jesus in our own times of need. Do we cry out for mercy, fully recognizing our dependence on Him?
  • Persistent Faith in the Face of Opposition: As Bartimaeus cries out, those around him sternly tell him to be quiet, trying to silence him (Luke 18:39). But instead of giving up, Bartimaeus cries out even louder. His persistence shows the depth of his faith. He will not let anything or anyone stop him from reaching out to Jesus. This teaches us a valuable lesson about faith—true faith is persistent. Even when circumstances, people, or doubts try to silence us, we must keep calling out to Jesus, trusting that He hears us. Bartimaeus’ persistence in the face of opposition demonstrates the kind of faith that moves the heart of God.
  • Jesus’ Compassionate Response: Jesus hears Bartimaeus’ cry and stops. He doesn’t ignore him or pass him by. Instead, He commands that Bartimaeus be brought to Him and asks a simple but profound question: “What do you want Me to do for you?” (Luke 18:41). Jesus’ question gives Bartimaeus the opportunity to express his need openly. In his response, Bartimaeus says, “Lord, I want to regain my sight!” His request is clear, direct, and full of faith. Jesus responds immediately to this faith-filled request, saying, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well” (Luke 18:42). This encounter reveals Jesus’ deep compassion and His readiness to respond to those who call out to Him in faith.
  • Faith That Brings Healing: Jesus attributes Bartimaeus’ healing to his faith: “Your faith has made you well.” This is a powerful reminder of the role that faith plays in our relationship with God. Faith is not just believing in the existence of God—it is trusting in His power, goodness, and willingness to intervene in our lives. Bartimaeus’ faith led to both physical healing and spiritual transformation. His sight was restored, but more importantly, he became a follower of Jesus, glorifying God. When we trust Jesus fully, our faith opens the door for His healing, both physically and spiritually, in our lives.
  • A Life Transformed by Encountering Jesus: After receiving his sight, Bartimaeus’ life is completely changed. He immediately begins following Jesus and glorifying God (Luke 18:43). His gratitude and praise are contagious, as all the people who witnessed the miracle also gave praise to God. This shows us that an encounter with Jesus is not just about receiving what we need—it is about transformation. Bartimaeus didn’t just walk away after receiving his sight; he became a disciple of Jesus, following Him and glorifying God. Our faith should lead us to a deeper relationship with Christ, one that changes us and draws others to glorify God.

Summary Key Points:

  • A Cry for Mercy: Bartimaeus’ plea for mercy shows us the importance of recognizing our need for Jesus and approaching Him in humility and faith.
  • Persistent Faith: Bartimaeus’ refusal to be silenced teaches us that true faith is persistent, even in the face of opposition or discouragement.
  • Jesus’ Compassionate Response: Jesus stops to listen and respond to Bartimaeus’ cry, showing His willingness to meet us in our need when we approach Him in faith.
  • Faith That Heals and Transforms: Bartimaeus’ faith not only led to physical healing but also to a deeper relationship with Jesus, as he followed Him and glorified God.
  • A Life Changed by Jesus: True faith in Jesus leads to transformation, both in our own lives and in the lives of those around us as we give glory to God for His goodness.

Application: Consider your own walk of faith. Are you crying out to Jesus in your time of need, fully trusting in His ability to heal and restore? Are there obstacles or voices telling you to give up, to stop praying, or to doubt? Like Bartimaeus, choose to persist in faith, believing that Jesus hears and responds to your cries. Reflect on how your faith in Jesus is transforming your life—are you following Him more closely, glorifying God, and drawing others to Him through your testimony? Let Bartimaeus’ example encourage you to live a life of faith that moves you closer to Jesus and draws others to praise God.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of Bartimaeus, whose persistent faith brought healing and transformation into his life. Help us to cry out to You with the same faith and trust, knowing that You hear us and are compassionate toward us. Teach us to persevere in faith, even when we face challenges or doubts. As we experience Your healing and grace, may we follow You more closely and glorify Your name in all we do. Use our lives as a testimony of Your goodness, drawing others to praise You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Faith / Trusting God, Hope, Prophecy, Protector / Deliverer, Purposeful / Intentional, Salvation, Through Prophets

The Hope of Resurrection and Eternal Life (Daniel 12)

What happens after this life?

In Daniel 12, God gives us a glimpse into the future—a powerful promise of resurrection and eternal life for those who trust in Him, reminding us to live with eternity in view.

Key Verse: “Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt.” – Daniel 12:2 (NIV)

Background Context: Daniel 12 brings the book of Daniel to a climactic conclusion, offering both hope and solemn warning. This chapter contains one of the clearest Old Testament references to the resurrection of the dead. Daniel is given insight into a time of great distress, but he is also assured that those who are wise and faithful will rise to everlasting life. The chapter emphasizes the importance of persevering in faith, trusting in God’s ultimate plan, and looking forward to the hope of resurrection.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Daniel 12

The Time of the End

      1“Now at that time Michael, the great prince who stands guard over the sons of your people, will arise. And there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time; and at that time your people, everyone who is found written in the book, will be rescued. 2“Many of those who sleep in the dust of the ground will awake, these to everlasting life, but the others to disgrace and everlasting contempt. 3“Those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. 4“But as for you, Daniel, conceal these words and seal up the book until the end of time; many will go back and forth, and knowledge will increase.”

      5Then I, Daniel, looked and behold, two others were standing, one on this bank of the river and the other on that bank of the river. 6And one said to the man dressed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, “How long will it be until the end of these wonders?” 7I heard the man dressed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, as he raised his right hand and his left toward heaven, and swore by Him who lives forever that it would be for a time, times, and half a time; and as soon as they finish shattering the power of the holy people, all these events will be completed. 8As for me, I heard but could not understand; so I said, “My lord, what will be the outcome of these events?” 9He said, “Go your way, Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed up until the end time. 10“Many will be purged, purified and refined, but the wicked will act wickedly; and none of the wicked will understand, but those who have insight will understand. 11“From the time that the regular sacrifice is abolished and the abomination of desolation is set up, there will be 1,290 days. 12“How blessed is he who keeps waiting and attains to the 1,335 days! 13“But as for you, go your way to the end; then you will enter into rest and rise again for your allotted portion at the end of the age.”

Reflection on Daniel 12:

  • A Time of Great Distress: Daniel 12 begins with a description of a time of unparalleled distress, a period of tribulation for God’s people (Daniel 12:1). Yet, in the midst of this trouble, there is a promise of deliverance for “everyone whose name is found written in the book.” This reminds us that, while we may face trials and difficulties in this life, God is faithful to protect and deliver His people. Even in times of great distress, God’s sovereignty remains intact, and His ultimate plan for His people is secure.
  • The Promise of Resurrection: One of the most powerful promises in Scripture is found in Daniel 12:2—many who have died will be raised to life again, some to eternal life and others to shame and everlasting contempt. This is one of the earliest and clearest mentions of the resurrection of the dead in the Old Testament. For believers, this is a profound source of hope. Death is not the end. We are promised a resurrection to eternal life, a glorious future with God. At the same time, this verse also reminds us of the reality of judgment and the importance of living in a way that honors God, for some will face eternal separation from Him.
  • Shining Like Stars: Daniel 12:3 tells us that “those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.” This verse highlights the eternal impact of a life lived for God. Those who walk in wisdom—meaning those who follow God’s ways—and lead others to righteousness will be rewarded with eternal glory. Our lives here on earth are not insignificant; how we live and how we influence others has eternal consequences. We are called to lead lives that reflect God’s light, drawing others toward Him.
  • Perseverance in the Waiting: Daniel is told to “seal up the words of the scroll” until the time of the end (Daniel 12:4), indicating that these prophecies would be fully understood in the distant future. He is also instructed to continue faithfully, despite the fact that not all of the details of God’s plan are immediately clear. This teaches us the importance of perseverance and faithfulness, even when we don’t fully understand God’s timing or the details of His plan. We are called to trust in God, knowing that He will reveal His purposes in His perfect time.
  • Rest and Inheritance: The final verse of the chapter contains a personal message to Daniel: “As for you, go your way till the end. You will rest, and then at the end of the days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance” (Daniel 12:13). This promise of rest and inheritance is not just for Daniel—it is a promise for all who trust in God. It is a reminder that, at the end of our journey, there is eternal rest and reward in the presence of God. No matter what trials we face, we can look forward to the day when we will be with God for eternity.

Summary Key Points:

  • Deliverance in Distress: Even in times of great difficulty, God promises deliverance for those who trust in Him. We can trust in His protection and ultimate plan, even when the world is in turmoil.
  • The Hope of Resurrection: The promise of resurrection gives us profound hope—death is not the end for those who believe in God. We will be raised to eternal life, a glorious future with Him.
  • A Life of Influence: Those who live wisely and lead others to righteousness will shine like stars for eternity. Our lives here on earth have eternal significance, and we are called to influence others toward God’s kingdom.
  • Perseverance and Faithfulness: Like Daniel, we are called to persevere in faith, trusting God’s plan, even when we do not fully understand it. God’s timing is perfect, and His promises are sure.
  • Rest and Inheritance: At the end of our journey, we can look forward to eternal rest and the inheritance that God has prepared for us. Our faithfulness will be rewarded with life everlasting in God’s presence.

Application: Take a moment to reflect on your life—are you living with eternity in mind? How does the promise of resurrection and eternal life impact the way you face challenges or trials today? Consider how you can influence others for the kingdom of God, leading them to righteousness and pointing them toward the hope of eternal life. If you are in a season of waiting or uncertainty, ask God for the strength to persevere in faith, trusting that His promises will be fulfilled in His perfect timing.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the promise of resurrection and eternal life. Help us to live with that hope in our hearts, knowing that death is not the end, and we will one day be with You forever. Teach us to live wisely and to lead others toward righteousness, shining Your light in this world. Give us the strength to persevere in faith, even when we face trials or uncertainty, trusting that Your plan is perfect. We look forward to the rest and inheritance You have prepared for us in eternity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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