Category Archives: Righteousness / Serving God

Obeying God, Repenting from Sin, Submitted / Servant, Tribulation

Empty Words of Surrender (Exodus 9:22-35)

Have you ever said the right things to God in a difficult moment—only to return to old ways when the pressure lifted?

Key Verse:
“But when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunder had ceased, he sinned again and hardened his heart, he and his servants.” —Exodus 9:34 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 9:8–21, God sends boils upon Egypt and then warns of a coming hailstorm. Some of Pharaoh’s servants respond to God’s warning and act, while others ignore it. Pharaoh’s heart remains hardened as God continues to reveal His power and authority.

Now in Exodus 9:22–35, the hail falls just as God said, bringing destruction across Egypt—while again sparing His people. Pharaoh appears to respond, but his actions reveal something deeper about the nature of true repentance.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 9:22-35

      22Now the LORD said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand toward the sky, that hail may fall on all the land of Egypt, on man and on beast and on every plant of the field, throughout the land of Egypt.” 23Moses stretched out his staff toward the sky, and the LORD sent thunder and hail, and fire ran down to the earth. And the LORD rained hail on the land of Egypt. 24So there was hail, and fire flashing continually in the midst of the hail, very severe, such as had not been in all the land of Egypt since it became a nation. 25The hail struck all that was in the field through all the land of Egypt, both man and beast; the hail also struck every plant of the field and shattered every tree of the field. 26Only in the land of Goshen, where the sons of Israel were, there was no hail.

      27Then Pharaoh sent for Moses and Aaron, and said to them, “I have sinned this time; the LORD is the righteous one, and I and my people are the wicked ones. 28“Make supplication to the LORD, for there has been enough of God’s thunder and hail; and I will let you go, and you shall stay no longer.” 29Moses said to him, “As soon as I go out of the city, I will spread out my hands to the LORD; the thunder will cease and there will be hail no longer, that you may know that the earth is the LORD’S. 30“But as for you and your servants, I know that you do not yet fear the LORD God.” 31(Now the flax and the barley were ruined, for the barley was in the ear and the flax was in bud. 32But the wheat and the spelt were not ruined, for they ripen late.) 33So Moses went out of the city from Pharaoh, and spread out his hands to the LORD; and the thunder and the hail ceased, and rain no longer poured on the earth. 34But when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunder had ceased, he sinned again and hardened his heart, he and his servants. 35Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he did not let the sons of Israel go, just as the LORD had spoken through Moses.

Reflection on Exodus 9:22–35:
God instructs Moses to stretch out his hand toward the sky, and a devastating storm of hail, thunder, and fire comes upon Egypt. It is unlike anything the land has ever experienced.

The destruction is widespread.

People, animals, and crops left in the field are struck down. Trees are shattered. The land is broken under the weight of what God has brought.

Yet once again, there is a clear distinction.

In the land of Goshen, where the Israelites live, there is no hail.

God is continuing to demonstrate both His judgment and His protection. He is not only showing His power—He is making it unmistakably clear who belongs to Him.

In the midst of this, Pharaoh responds.

For the first time, he openly admits wrongdoing:

“I have sinned this time; the LORD is the righteous one, and I and my people are the wicked ones.”

These are strong words.

Pharaoh acknowledges God’s righteousness and his own sin. He asks Moses to entreat the LORD to stop the storm, promising to let the people go.

On the surface, this appears to be genuine repentance.

But Moses already understands what is happening.

“I know that you do not yet fear the LORD God.”

Moses recognizes that Pharaoh’s words do not reflect a changed heart. Pharaoh wants relief from the consequences, but he is not ready to submit to God.

Moses prays, and the storm stops.

The thunder ceases.
The hail ends.
The pressure is removed.

And then Pharaoh responds again.

He hardens his heart.

This reveals a critical truth.

Saying the right words is not the same as true repentance.

Pharaoh confessed sin—but did not turn from it.
He acknowledged God—but did not submit to Him.
He sought relief—but not transformation.

This pattern has been building throughout the plagues, and here it becomes very clear.

Temporary pressure can produce temporary confession.
But only a changed heart produces lasting obedience.

We also continue to see the role of God in this process. Pharaoh had repeatedly hardened his own heart earlier in the account. Now, as Scripture tells us, the LORD hardens his heart—confirming him in the path he has already chosen and allowing that resistance to continue.

This is not God forcing rebellion, but God sustaining Pharaoh’s chosen direction so that His power would be fully revealed.

God is demonstrating His authority over creation, over nations, and over kings.

But Pharaoh still refuses to yield.

This passage challenges us to examine our own hearts.

Do we turn to God only when circumstances become difficult?

Do we say the right things in moments of pressure, but return to old patterns when life becomes easier?

True repentance is more than words.

It is a change of heart that leads to a change of life.

God is not looking for temporary responses—He is calling for lasting surrender.

Application:

  • Examine whether your response to God is genuine or driven by circumstances.
  • Do not confuse confession with true repentance.
  • Seek transformation of heart, not just relief from difficulty.
  • Be aware that temporary pressure can produce temporary change.
  • Commit to lasting obedience, even after the pressure is removed.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to come before You with a sincere and humble heart. Keep me from offering empty words or temporary responses. Change me from within so that my life reflects true repentance and obedience. Help me to follow You not only in difficult moments, but in every season. Thank You for Your patience and Your truth. 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.

All Powerful / King of All, Miracles, Miracles, Obeying God, Protector / Deliverer, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God, Submitted / Servant

Responding to God’s Warning (Exodus 9:8-21)

When God gives a warning, do you take it seriously—or ignore it?

Key Verse:
“The one among the servants of Pharaoh who feared the word of the LORD made his servants and his livestock flee into the houses.” —Exodus 9:20 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 9:1–7, God sends a plague upon the livestock of Egypt while protecting Israel, clearly distinguishing His people from the Egyptians. Pharaoh sees the evidence but still hardens his heart.

Now in Exodus 9:8–21, God sends another plague—boils upon man and beast—followed by a warning of a coming hailstorm. For the first time, we see a division not just between Egypt and Israel, but among the Egyptians themselves based on how they respond to God’s word.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 9:8-21

The Plague of Boils

      8Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, “Take for yourselves handfuls of soot from a kiln, and let Moses throw it toward the sky in the sight of Pharaoh. 9“It will become fine dust over all the land of Egypt, and will become boils breaking out with sores on man and beast through all the land of Egypt.” 10So they took soot from a kiln, and stood before Pharaoh; and Moses threw it toward the sky, and it became boils breaking out with sores on man and beast. 11The magicians could not stand before Moses because of the boils, for the boils were on the magicians as well as on all the Egyptians. 12And the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he did not listen to them, just as the LORD had spoken to Moses.

      13Then the LORD said to Moses, “Rise up early in the morning and stand before Pharaoh and say to him, ‘Thus says the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, “Let My people go, that they may serve Me. 14“For this time I will send all My plagues on you and your servants and your people, so that you may know that there is no one like Me in all the earth. 15“For if by now I had put forth My hand and struck you and your people with pestilence, you would then have been cut off from the earth. 16“But, indeed, for this reason I have allowed you to remain, in order to show you My power and in order to proclaim My name through all the earth. 17“Still you exalt yourself against My people by not letting them go.

The Plague of Hail

      18“Behold, about this time tomorrow, I will send a very heavy hail, such as has not been seen in Egypt from the day it was founded until now. 19“Now therefore send, bring your livestock and whatever you have in the field to safety. Every man and beast that is found in the field and is not brought home, when the hail comes down on them, will die.”’” 20The one among the servants of Pharaoh who feared the word of the LORD made his servants and his livestock flee into the houses; 21but he who paid no regard to the word of the LORD left his servants and his livestock in the field.

Reflection on Exodus 9:8–21:
The plague of boils comes without warning. Moses and Aaron throw soot into the air, and it becomes fine dust that causes painful boils on people and animals throughout Egypt.

Even the magicians—who once stood in opposition—are now unable to stand before Moses because of the severity of the boils.

This is another escalation.

Those who once tried to imitate God’s power are now overwhelmed by it. The resistance that once appeared strong is steadily being broken down.

Yet Pharaoh still does not respond.

At this point in the account, we also begin to see a shift in how Scripture describes Pharaoh’s heart. Earlier, Pharaoh hardened his own heart and repeatedly chose to resist God. Now we see that the LORD hardens Pharaoh’s heart.

This does not mean God is forcing Pharaoh in a new direction. Rather, Pharaoh has already chosen to resist again and again, and his heart has become fixed in that decision. God now strengthens and confirms him in that path, allowing his resistance to continue.

In doing so, God ensures that the confrontation unfolds fully, so that His power and authority would be revealed more clearly to Egypt, to Israel, and to all who would hear of it.

God did not create Pharaoh’s rebellion—He sustained and used it to accomplish His greater purpose.

Then God does something different.

Before the next plague, He gives a clear warning.

He tells Pharaoh that a severe hailstorm is coming—unlike anything Egypt has ever seen. This storm will bring destruction to people, animals, and crops left in the field.

But along with the warning, God provides an opportunity.

He tells them to bring their servants and livestock into shelter to avoid the coming judgment.

This reveals something important about God’s character.

Even in judgment, He provides a way to respond.

Now, for the first time, we see a division among the Egyptians themselves.

Some of Pharaoh’s servants fear the word of the LORD and act on it. They bring their people and livestock into safety.

Others ignore the warning and leave everything in the field.

The difference is not nationality.
The difference is not position.
The difference is response.

Some hear God’s word and act.
Others hear and ignore it.

And that response determines the outcome.

This is a powerful moment.

Even while Pharaoh remains hardened, individuals within Egypt begin to respond rightly to God.

This shows that no one is without opportunity.

God speaks clearly.
God provides warning.
God offers a way to respond.

But each person must choose how they will respond.

For us, the question is the same.

When God speaks—through His Word, through conviction, through circumstances—do we take Him seriously enough to act?

Or do we delay, ignore, or assume the warning does not apply to us?

God is not silent.

And the difference is not whether we hear—but whether we respond.

Application:

  • Take God’s warnings seriously and respond with action.
  • Recognize that God provides opportunities to respond, even in difficult circumstances.
  • Examine whether you are listening to God or ignoring His word.
  • Understand that God is sovereign and can use even resistance to accomplish His purposes.
  • Choose to act in obedience rather than delay.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to take Your word seriously and respond when You speak. Give me a heart that fears You rightly—honoring You and acting in obedience. Keep me from ignoring Your warnings or delaying my response. Help me to trust in Your sovereignty and to follow You fully. 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.

Obeying God, Protector / Deliverer, Seeking God, Strong in Our Weakness, Submitted / Servant

Do You Belong to God? (Exodus 9:1-7)

Do you see clearly the difference between those who belong to God and those who do not?

Key Verse:
“But the LORD will make a distinction between the livestock of Israel and the livestock of Egypt, so that nothing will die of all that belongs to the sons of Israel.” —Exodus 9:4 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 8, God brings plagues upon Egypt and begins to clearly distinguish between His people and the Egyptians, while Pharaoh repeatedly hardens his heart and refuses to fully obey.

Now in Exodus 9:1–7, the plagues continue, and God further reveals His authority—not only through judgment, but through intentional protection of His people.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 9

Egyptian Cattle Die

      1Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh and speak to him, ‘Thus says the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, “Let My people go, that they may serve Me. 2“For if you refuse to let them go and continue to hold them, 3behold, the hand of the LORD will come with a very severe pestilence on your livestock which are in the field, on the horses, on the donkeys, on the camels, on the herds, and on the flocks. 4“But the LORD will make a distinction between the livestock of Israel and the livestock of Egypt, so that nothing will die of all that belongs to the sons of Israel.”’” 5The LORD set a definite time, saying, “Tomorrow the LORD will do this thing in the land.” 6So the LORD did this thing on the next day, and all the livestock of Egypt died; but of the livestock of the sons of Israel, not one died. 7Pharaoh sent, and behold, there was not even one of the livestock of Israel dead. But the heart of Pharaoh was hardened, and he did not let the people go.

Reflection on Exodus 9:1–7:
God again sends Moses to Pharaoh with the same command:

“Let My people go, that they may serve Me.”

This has not changed.

God’s purpose is not simply to remove Israel from Egypt—it is to bring them into a relationship of worship and obedience.

When Pharaoh refuses, God sends a severe plague upon the livestock of Egypt. Horses, donkeys, camels, herds, and flocks are struck.

This is a major blow.

Livestock represented wealth, strength, transportation, food supply, and economic stability. This plague strikes directly at the resources Egypt depended on.

But once again, God does something very intentional.

He makes a distinction.

Not one of the livestock belonging to Israel dies.

This is not coincidence. It is not partial impact. It is complete separation.

God is making it unmistakably clear:

  •  He knows who belongs to Him
  • He protects what is His

This reinforces a truth that has been building through the plagues—God’s judgment is not random. It is precise, controlled, and purposeful.

Pharaoh even investigates.

He sends and confirms that Israel’s livestock are untouched.

The evidence is undeniable.

Yet his heart remains hardened.

This is sobering.

Pharaoh is not lacking information. He is not confused. He sees the difference clearly—and still refuses to submit.

This reveals something important about the human heart.

The issue is not always understanding—it is willingness.

God is making a clear distinction between His people and Egypt, but Pharaoh refuses to align himself with God, even when the path is obvious.

For us, this passage calls for reflection.

God still makes a distinction.

Those who belong to Him are set apart—not because they are better, but because they are His.

This does not mean they avoid all hardship, but it does mean they are under His care, His authority, and His purpose.

The question is not whether God is making the difference clear.

The question is whether we are willing to respond to it.

Pharaoh saw the evidence—and chose to resist.

We are given the same opportunity to see, understand, and respond.

Application:

  • Recognize that God clearly distinguishes those who belong to Him.
  • Do not ignore the evidence of God’s work in your life and in the world.
  • Understand that the issue is often not knowledge, but willingness to obey.
  • Choose to align yourself fully with God rather than resist Him.
  • Trust in God’s care and authority over your life.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You that You know those who belong to You and that You are faithful in all You do. Help me to respond to You with a willing heart and not resist when You make truth clear. Give me the courage to fully align my life with You and trust in Your authority. Thank You for Your protection, Your guidance, and Your faithfulness. 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.

All Knowing, Humility, Interceding for Others, Learning To Pray Effectively, Obeying God

When God Listens and Acts (Revelation 8 – Broader View)

Do you realize that your prayers are part of what God uses as He works in the world?

Key Verse:
“And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, went up before God out of the angel’s hand.” —Revelation 8:4 NASB

Background Context:
In Revelation 8, the seventh seal is opened, marking a transition in the unfolding of God’s plan. Instead of immediate judgment, there is a pause in heaven, followed by the sounding of the first four trumpets.

This chapter reveals a complete sequence—God listens to the prayers of His people, responds in His timing, and begins to act through measured judgment and warning.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Revelation 8

The Seventh Seal—the Trumpets

      1When the Lamb broke the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. 2And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them.

      3Another angel came and stood at the altar, holding a golden censer; and much incense was given to him, so that he might add it to the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar which was before the throne. 4And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, went up before God out of the angel’s hand. 5Then the angel took the censer and filled it with the fire of the altar, and threw it to the earth; and there followed peals of thunder and sounds and flashes of lightning and an earthquake.

      6And the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound them.

      7The first sounded, and there came hail and fire, mixed with blood, and they were thrown to the earth; and a third of the earth was burned up, and a third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass was burned up.

      8The second angel sounded, and something like a great mountain burning with fire was thrown into the sea; and a third of the sea became blood, 9and a third of the creatures which were in the sea and had life, died; and a third of the ships were destroyed.

      10The third angel sounded, and a great star fell from heaven, burning like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of waters. 11The name of the star is called Wormwood; and a third of the waters became wormwood, and many men died from the waters, because they were made bitter.

      12The fourth angel sounded, and a third of the sun and a third of the moon and a third of the stars were struck, so that a third of them would be darkened and the day would not shine for a third of it, and the night in the same way.

      13Then I looked, and I heard an eagle flying in midheaven, saying with a loud voice, “Woe, woe, woe to those who dwell on the earth, because of the remaining blasts of the trumpet of the three angels who are about to sound!”

Reflection on Revelation 8:
The chapter begins with silence.

Heaven, which had been filled with worship and proclamation, becomes quiet. This silence is not emptiness—it is reverence and anticipation. Something significant is about to happen.

Before anything else unfolds, the prayers of the saints are brought before God.

An angel offers incense mixed with these prayers, and they rise before Him. This moment reveals that the prayers of God’s people are not overlooked. They are received, valued, and remembered.

This connects to earlier cries in Revelation—those asking, “How long, O Lord?” Here we see that God has heard.

Then something remarkable happens.

The same censer used to present the prayers is filled with fire from the altar and cast to the earth. Thunder, lightning, and an earthquake follow.

This shows that God’s response is not passive.

He listens—and then He acts.

As the trumpets begin to sound, judgment is released upon the earth. The land, the sea, the waters, and the heavens are all affected. Each judgment is significant, yet limited—only a third is impacted.

This detail is important.

God is demonstrating restraint.

These are not final acts of destruction. They are warnings—clear, undeniable signs that call for attention and response. God is revealing His authority over all creation while still allowing opportunity for repentance.

Then comes a final warning.

An eagle flies through the sky declaring, “Woe, woe, woe…” to those who dwell on the earth. This makes it clear that what has happened so far is only the beginning.

This chapter reveals a powerful progression:

God listens.
God responds.
God warns.

Nothing is random.

God’s actions are intentional, measured, and purposeful. He is not distant from what is happening on the earth—He is actively involved, responding to His people and carrying out His plan.

For us, this brings both encouragement and responsibility.

It is encouraging to know that our prayers matter. They are part of God’s unfolding work, even when we do not immediately see the results.

It is also a call to respond.

God does not act without warning. He reveals truth, gives opportunity, and calls people to turn to Him. But those warnings must be taken seriously.

The question is not whether God is listening.

The question is whether we are.

Are we bringing our prayers before Him with faith?
Are we responding when He reveals Himself?
Are we recognizing His warnings and aligning our lives with Him?

God is both patient and just.

He listens.
He acts.
And He calls us to respond.

Application:

  • Be encouraged that your prayers are heard and matter to God.
  • Remain faithful in prayer, even when answers are not immediate.
  • Recognize that God’s actions are purposeful and not random.
  • Take the warnings God provides seriously.
  • Respond to God with obedience and humility when He reveals truth.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You that You hear my prayers and that they are not forgotten. Help me to remain faithful in seeking You, trusting in Your timing and Your purposes. Give me a heart that listens and responds when You reveal truth. Keep me from ignoring Your warnings, and guide me to walk in obedience and faith. 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.

Faith / Trusting God, Justice / Judgment, Merciful, Obeying God, Purposeful / Intentional, Repenting from Sin, Revelation, Seeking God

God Sends the Alarm Before Judgment (Revelation 8:6–13)

Are you paying attention to the warnings God gives—or ignoring them?

Key Verse:
“Then I looked, and I heard an eagle flying in midheaven, saying with a loud voice, ‘Woe, woe, woe to those who dwell on the earth…’” —Revelation 8:13 NASB

Background Context:
In Revelation 8:1–5, the seventh seal is opened, and there is silence in heaven as the prayers of the saints rise before God. That moment reveals that God hears and responds to His people.

Now in Revelation 8:6–13, the seven angels prepare to sound their trumpets, and the first four judgments are released. These events mark an escalation—but not a final end—revealing both God’s power and His continued warning to the world.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Revelation 8:6-13

      6And the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound them.

      7The first sounded, and there came hail and fire, mixed with blood, and they were thrown to the earth; and a third of the earth was burned up, and a third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass was burned up.

      8The second angel sounded, and something like a great mountain burning with fire was thrown into the sea; and a third of the sea became blood, 9and a third of the creatures which were in the sea and had life, died; and a third of the ships were destroyed.

      10The third angel sounded, and a great star fell from heaven, burning like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of waters. 11The name of the star is called Wormwood; and a third of the waters became wormwood, and many men died from the waters, because they were made bitter.

      12The fourth angel sounded, and a third of the sun and a third of the moon and a third of the stars were struck, so that a third of them would be darkened and the day would not shine for a third of it, and the night in the same way.

      13Then I looked, and I heard an eagle flying in midheaven, saying with a loud voice, “Woe, woe, woe to those who dwell on the earth, because of the remaining blasts of the trumpet of the three angels who are about to sound!”

Reflection on Revelation 8:6–13:
As the angels prepare to sound the trumpets, the tone shifts from silence to action. The first four trumpets bring devastating effects upon the earth—hail and fire, a burning mountain thrown into the sea, a star falling from heaven, and darkness striking the sun, moon, and stars.

Each trumpet impacts a different part of creation:

  • the land
  • the sea
  • fresh water
  • the heavens

This is not random destruction.

It is systematic, intentional, and controlled.

One detail stands out clearly—each judgment affects only a third.

This is important.

God is demonstrating restraint. The destruction is significant, but it is not total. This reveals that even in judgment, there is mercy. God is not yet bringing final destruction—He is warning.

These are not just acts of judgment—they are calls to repentance.

God is showing the world that:

  • He has authority over creation
  • He can disrupt what people depend on
  • He is actively intervening

Yet even with these signs, the pattern we have seen continues—people do not turn.

The imagery also echoes earlier Scripture. The plagues resemble those in Egypt, where God confronted Pharaoh and the false gods of the land. Just as in Exodus, God is revealing that what people trust in cannot stand against Him.

At the end of the passage, an eagle flies overhead declaring:

“Woe, woe, woe…”

This is a warning that what has happened so far is only the beginning. Greater judgments are still to come.

This moment should cause us to pause.

God does not bring judgment without warning.

He gives opportunity after opportunity for people to respond.

But warnings only matter if they are heeded.

For us, this passage is not just about future events—it is about how we respond to God now.

Are we paying attention when God reveals Himself?

Are we responding with humility and repentance?

Or are we ignoring the warnings, assuming there will always be more time?

God’s actions in Revelation show both His justice and His mercy. He does not act impulsively. He reveals, warns, and gives opportunity before final judgment comes.

The question is not whether God is speaking.

The question is whether we are listening.

Application:

  • Recognize that God gives warnings before final judgment.
  • Do not ignore signs that call you to repentance and obedience.
  • Trust that God is in control, even when events seem chaotic.
  • Respond to God’s truth now, rather than delaying.
  • Live with awareness that God’s patience has a purpose.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to recognize Your voice and respond when You reveal truth. Keep me from ignoring the warnings You provide, and give me a heart that is quick to repent and obey. Teach me to trust in Your control and to live with awareness of Your purpose. Thank You for Your patience and mercy. 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.

Faithful, Fear / Reverence for God, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Peace / Rest, Wise

A Time for Everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1-15)

Do you trust God with the timing of your life—even when it doesn’t match your expectations?

Key Verse:
“He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart…” —Ecclesiastes 3:11 NASB

Background Context:
After exploring the emptiness of life apart from God in Ecclesiastes 1–2 and recognizing that meaning must be received from Him, Solomon now shifts focus in Ecclesiastes 3:1–15 to the nature of time and God’s sovereignty over it.

This passage reveals that life is not random or uncontrolled—God appoints the seasons and determines their purpose.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Ecclesiastes 3:1-10

A Time for Everything

      1There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven—

      2A time to give birth and a time to die;
A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted.

      3A time to kill and a time to heal;
A time to tear down and a time to build up.

      4A time to weep and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn and a time to dance.

      5A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones;
A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing.

      6A time to search and a time to give up as lost;
A time to keep and a time to throw away.

      7A time to tear apart and a time to sew together;
A time to be silent and a time to speak.

      8A time to love and a time to hate;
A time for war and a time for peace.

      9What profit is there to the worker from that in which he toils? 10I have seen the task which God has given the sons of men with which to occupy themselves.

God Set Eternity in the Heart of Man

      11He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart, yet so that man will not find out the work which God has done from the beginning even to the end.

      12I know that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice and to do good in one’s lifetime; 13moreover, that every man who eats and drinks sees good in all his labor—it is the gift of God. 14I know that everything God does will remain forever; there is nothing to add to it and there is nothing to take from it, for God has so worked that men should fear Him. 15That which is has been already and that which will be has already been, for God seeks what has passed by.

Reflection on Ecclesiastes 3:1–15:
Solomon begins with a well-known truth: “There is an appointed time for everything.” He then lists a series of contrasting seasons—birth and death, planting and uprooting, weeping and laughing, mourning and dancing.

These contrasts reflect the full range of human experience.

Some seasons are joyful and desired. Others are painful and difficult. Yet Solomon makes it clear that all of them exist within God’s appointed order.

This challenges how we often view life.

We tend to embrace the good seasons and resist the difficult ones. We may even question God when we find ourselves in hardship. But this passage reminds us that both are part of the rhythm of life under God’s authority.

Nothing is outside of His awareness.
Nothing is outside of His control.

Solomon then asks an important question: what profit is there in all our labor?

This connects back to earlier chapters. If we are striving to control outcomes or force results, we will find frustration. But when we recognize that God is in control of time, our perspective begins to shift.

We are not called to control every season—we are called to trust God within them.

“He has made everything appropriate in its time.”

This does not mean we will always understand what God is doing. In fact, Solomon acknowledges that God has set eternity in our hearts, yet we cannot fully comprehend His work from beginning to end.

This creates tension.

We long to understand.
We want clarity.
We desire control.

But we are limited.

This limitation is not a flaw—it is a reminder that we are not God.

Solomon then points us back to a simple but meaningful response: to rejoice, to do good, and to enjoy the life God has given. These are not shallow pursuits—they are acts of trust when we recognize that life is a gift from Him.

He also reminds us that God’s work endures forever. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it. This reinforces that God’s plan is complete and unshakable.

Finally, Solomon brings us back to a central truth: God’s purpose is that people should fear Him—to live in reverence, trust, and obedience.

This passage teaches us that life’s seasons are not random.

They are appointed.
They are purposeful.
They are under God’s control.

Our role is not to master time, but to trust the One who does.

Application:

  • Trust God with the timing of your life, even when it is difficult.
  • Recognize that both joyful and painful seasons have purpose.
  • Let go of the need to control what only God can control.
  • Choose to rejoice and do good in the season you are in.
  • Live with reverence for God, trusting His eternal plan.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to trust You with the seasons of my life. When I do not understand what You are doing, remind me that You are in control and that Your timing is perfect. Teach me to live with faith and reverence, rejoicing in what You provide and trusting in Your greater plan. 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.

Faith / Trusting God, Psalms, Wickedness / Evil

Trusting God Over Evil (Psalm 52)

What do you do when evil seems to prosper and speak loudly?

Key Verse:
“But as for me, I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; I trust in the lovingkindness of God forever and ever.” —Psalm 52:8 NASB

Background Context:
Psalms 52 is written by David in response to betrayal and wickedness—specifically when Doeg the Edomite reported David to Saul, leading to the destruction of the priests at Nob. This psalm contrasts the pride and deceit of the wicked with the steady trust of the righteous.

Following Psalm 51, which focuses on repentance and a restored heart, Psalm 52 shifts to confronting evil and choosing where to place our trust.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 52

Futility of Boastful Wickedness.

For the choir director. A Maskil of David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul and said to him, “David has come to the house of Ahimelech.”

     1Why do you boast in evil, O mighty man?
The lovingkindness of God endures all day long.

      2Your tongue devises destruction,
Like a sharp razor, O worker of deceit.

      3You love evil more than good,
Falsehood more than speaking what is right.

Selah.

      4You love all words that devour,
O deceitful tongue.

      5But God will break you down forever;
He will snatch you up and tear you away from your tent,
And uproot you from the land of the living.

Selah.

      6The righteous will see and fear,
And will laugh at him, saying,

      7“Behold, the man who would not make God his refuge,
But trusted in the abundance of his riches
And was strong in his evil desire.”

      8But as for me, I am like a green olive tree in the house of God;
I trust in the lovingkindness of God forever and ever.

      9I will give You thanks forever, because You have done it,
And I will wait on Your name, for it is good, in the presence of Your godly ones.

Reflection on Psalm 52:
David begins by addressing the arrogance of the wicked. He describes a man who boasts in evil, whose tongue devises destruction, and who loves falsehood more than truth.

This is not subtle wrongdoing—it is intentional, proud, and destructive.

The wicked person David describes trusts in power, wealth, and manipulation. He believes he can control outcomes through deceit and strength. This kind of confidence is rooted in self, not in God.

But David makes it clear—this path does not last.

God will bring judgment. He will uproot the one who trusts in lies and remove him from the place where he believes he is secure. What appears strong and established will be torn down.

This is a sobering reminder that evil may appear to succeed for a time, but it is never secure.

In contrast, David describes the righteous.

“But as for me…”

This is a deliberate choice.

Instead of responding with fear, anger, or compromise, David chooses trust. He compares himself to a green olive tree in the house of God—alive, rooted, and flourishing because of where he is planted.

This imagery is powerful.

The olive tree does not strive or force growth—it is sustained because it is rooted in the right place. In the same way, the righteous are sustained by their trust in God’s lovingkindness.

David’s confidence is not in circumstances, but in God’s character.

“I trust in the lovingkindness of God forever and ever.”

This is the key difference.

The wicked trust in temporary things—power, wealth, deceit.
The righteous trust in something eternal—God’s faithfulness.

David ends with praise and anticipation. He knows that God will act, and he chooses to wait on Him, declaring His name in the presence of others.

This psalm calls us to examine where we place our trust.

When we see evil around us—whether in individuals, systems, or culture—it can be tempting to respond with fear, frustration, or even compromise.

But David shows us another way.

We are not called to mirror the behavior of the wicked.
We are called to remain rooted in God.

Because in the end, what is rooted in Him will stand.

Application:

  • Do not be shaken when evil appears to prosper—it is temporary.
  • Choose to trust in God’s faithfulness rather than in worldly power or influence.
  • Guard your words and actions against deceit and compromise.
  • Stay rooted in God through prayer, obedience, and trust.
  • Respond to God’s faithfulness with praise and confidence in His justice.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to trust in You when I see evil around me. Keep my heart from fear or compromise, and root me deeply in Your truth and lovingkindness. Strengthen me to stand firm in righteousness and to rely on You rather than on the ways of the world. Thank You for Your faithfulness that endures forever. 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.

Faithful, Father / Yahweh, His Timing Not Ours, Interceding for Others, Learning To Pray Effectively, Merciful, Prophecy, Revelation, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

When God Responds to Prayer (Revelation 8:1-5)

Have you ever wondered if your prayers are truly heard by God?

Key Verse:
“And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, went up before God out of the angel’s hand.” —Revelation 8:4 NASB

Background Context:
In Revelation 6–7, the seals are opened, revealing judgment on the earth and raising the question: who can stand? Chapter 7 answers by showing that God secures His people even in the midst of tribulation.

Now in Revelation 8:1–5, the seventh seal is opened—but instead of immediate action, there is silence in heaven. This moment prepares us for what comes next and reveals something profound about how God works.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Revelation 8

The Seventh Seal—the Trumpets

      1When the Lamb broke the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. 2And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them.

      3Another angel came and stood at the altar, holding a golden censer; and much incense was given to him, so that he might add it to the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar which was before the throne. 4And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, went up before God out of the angel’s hand. 5Then the angel took the censer and filled it with the fire of the altar, and threw it to the earth; and there followed peals of thunder and sounds and flashes of lightning and an earthquake.

Reflection on Revelation 8:1–5:
When the seventh seal is opened, heaven becomes silent for about half an hour.

This is striking.

After chapters filled with worship, proclamation, and movement, everything stops. The silence is not empty—it is full of anticipation, reverence, and significance. It signals that something weighty is about to occur.

But before judgment continues, we are shown something unexpected.

An angel stands at the altar with a golden censer. Incense is given to him, and it is combined with the prayers of the saints and offered before God.

This is a powerful image.

The prayers of God’s people are not ignored. They are not lost. They rise before Him, presented with value and significance. What may feel small or unnoticed on earth is seen clearly in heaven.

This connects back to the earlier cry of the martyrs in Revelation 6: “How long, O Lord?”

Here we see that God has heard.

The prayers of the saints are part of what leads into what happens next.

The angel then takes the censer, fills it with fire from the altar, and throws it to the earth. This results in thunder, lightning, and an earthquake.

This moment reveals something profound:

God’s judgment is not disconnected from His people—it is, in part, a response to their prayers.

This challenges how we often think about prayer.

We may think of prayer as personal or small, something that affects only our immediate circumstances. But Scripture shows that prayer is part of God’s greater work. It is woven into His purposes and His timing.

The silence, the offering of prayers, and the response all happen before the next wave of judgment begins.

This shows that God is not impulsive.

He is deliberate.
He is attentive.
He is just.

He listens before He acts.

For us, this is both encouraging and sobering.

Encouraging, because our prayers matter. God hears them, values them, and responds in His time.

Sobering, because God’s response is not always immediate, and it is not always what we expect. His answers are aligned with His will, His justice, and His greater plan.

This passage reminds us that even when it feels like heaven is silent, it is not inactive.

God is listening.

And He will respond.

Application:

  • Be encouraged that your prayers are heard and valued by God.
  • Continue to pray faithfully, even when you do not see immediate answers.
  • Trust that God’s timing is intentional and aligned with His purposes.
  • Recognize that prayer is part of God’s larger plan, not separate from it.
  • Approach God with reverence, knowing He is both attentive and just.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You that You hear my prayers and that they matter to You. Help me to remain faithful in prayer, even when I do not see immediate answers. Teach me to trust in Your timing and Your purposes. Remind me that You are always at work, even when it feels quiet. Strengthen my faith to continue seeking You with a sincere heart. 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.

All Powerful / King of All, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Holy / Set Apart, Miracles, Miracles, Obeying God, Strong in Our Weakness, Submitted / Servant

Partial Obedience or Set Apart? (Exodus 8:20–32)

Are you fully obeying God—or trying to meet Him halfway?

Key Verse:
“But on that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where My people are living, so that no swarms of flies will be there, in order that you may know that I, the LORD, am in the midst of the land.” —Exodus 8:22 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 8:1–19, God continues to demonstrate His authority through the plagues of frogs and gnats. Pharaoh has resisted, delayed, and hardened his heart, even when the evidence of God’s power became undeniable.

Now in Exodus 8:20–32, a new development takes place. God not only brings judgment—He begins to clearly distinguish between His people and Egypt. At the same time, Pharaoh shifts his strategy from resistance to compromise.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 8:20-32

      20Now the LORD said to Moses, “Rise early in the morning and present yourself before Pharaoh, as he comes out to the water, and say to him, ‘Thus says the LORD, “Let My people go, that they may serve Me. 21“For if you do not let My people go, behold, I will send swarms of flies on you and on your servants and on your people and into your houses; and the houses of the Egyptians will be full of swarms of flies, and also the ground on which they dwell. 22“But on that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where My people are living, so that no swarms of flies will be there, in order that you may know that I, the LORD, am in the midst of the land. 23“I will put a division between My people and your people. Tomorrow this sign will occur.”’” 24Then the LORD did so. And there came great swarms of flies into the house of Pharaoh and the houses of his servants and the land was laid waste because of the swarms of flies in all the land of Egypt.

      25Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron and said, “Go, sacrifice to your God within the land.” 26But Moses said, “It is not right to do so, for we will sacrifice to the LORD our God what is an abomination to the Egyptians. If we sacrifice what is an abomination to the Egyptians before their eyes, will they not then stone us? 27“We must go a three days’ journey into the wilderness and sacrifice to the LORD our God as He commands us.” 28Pharaoh said, “I will let you go, that you may sacrifice to the LORD your God in the wilderness; only you shall not go very far away. Make supplication for me.” 29Then Moses said, “Behold, I am going out from you, and I shall make supplication to the LORD that the swarms of flies may depart from Pharaoh, from his servants, and from his people tomorrow; only do not let Pharaoh deal deceitfully again in not letting the people go to sacrifice to the LORD.”

      30So Moses went out from Pharaoh and made supplication to the LORD. 31The LORD did as Moses asked, and removed the swarms of flies from Pharaoh, from his servants and from his people; not one remained. 32But Pharaoh hardened his heart this time also, and he did not let the people go.

Reflection on Exodus 8:20–32:
God again sends Moses to Pharaoh with the same command: “Let My people go.” The message has not changed, even though Pharaoh has repeatedly refused to listen.

This time, God introduces something new.

He declares that He will set apart the land of Goshen, where the Israelites live. While Egypt will be filled with swarms of flies, God’s people will be protected.

This is a powerful statement.

God is making a clear distinction between those who belong to Him and those who do not. This is not random judgment—it is intentional, controlled, and purposeful.

Through this, God reveals that He is not distant or removed, but actively present and involved.

“I am in the midst of the land.”

The plague comes as described. Egypt is filled with corruption and destruction from the swarms of flies, while Goshen is spared.

At this point, Pharaoh responds differently.

He calls for Moses and Aaron and offers a compromise:

“Go, sacrifice to your God within the land.”

This may sound reasonable at first, but it falls short of God’s command. God had said to let the people go—not to stay in Egypt and worship on Pharaoh’s terms.

This is the beginning of negotiated obedience.

Moses refuses. He explains that obeying Pharaoh’s terms would not align with what God has commanded and would even create further conflict.

Pharaoh then offers a second compromise:

“I will let you go… only you shall not go very far away.”

Again, this is close—but not complete.

This reflects a common spiritual struggle.

Instead of outright rejecting God, Pharaoh attempts to control the terms of obedience. He is willing to allow some form of worship—but only within limits that he defines.

This is often how compromise appears in our own lives.

We may be willing to follow God—but only to a point.
We may obey—but not fully.
We may surrender—but still try to hold onto control.

But God does not call for partial obedience.

He calls for full surrender.

Moses agrees to pray for relief, but he also warns Pharaoh not to deal deceitfully again. God removes the flies, just as He promised.

And once again, Pharaoh hardens his heart.

Even after experiencing both judgment and mercy, he refuses to submit.

This passage highlights two key truths:

God clearly distinguishes those who belong to Him.
God does not accept compromise in obedience.

Pharaoh’s problem was not lack of opportunity—it was refusal to fully surrender.

The same question applies to us:

Are we obeying God fully—or trying to follow Him on our own terms?

Application:

  • Examine areas where you may be compromising instead of fully obeying God.
  • Recognize that God calls for complete obedience, not partial surrender.
  • Trust that being set apart by God is both protection and purpose.
  • Be aware of the temptation to follow God on your own terms.
  • Respond to God with full obedience, not negotiation.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to follow You fully and not hold back areas of my life. Reveal any place where I am compromising or trying to obey on my own terms. Give me the strength to surrender completely to You and trust in Your ways. Thank You for setting Your people apart and for being present in the midst of our lives. 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.

All Powerful / King of All, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Faith / Trusting God, Miracles, Miracles, Obeying God, Strong in Our Weakness

The Heart Sometimes Ignores Evidence (Exodus 8:16–19)

What happens when the evidence of God is undeniable—but the heart still refuses to change?

Key Verse:
“Then the magicians said to Pharaoh, ‘This is the finger of God.’ But Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he did not listen to them, as the LORD had said.” —Exodus 8:19 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 7–8:15, God has already demonstrated His authority through the first two plagues—turning the Nile to blood and covering the land with frogs. In both cases, Pharaoh resists, even when he briefly appears to soften.

Now in Exodus 8:16–19, a third plague comes without warning. This time, something changes—the magicians can no longer imitate what God is doing.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 8:16-32

The Plague of Insects

      16Then the LORD said to Moses, “Say to Aaron, ‘Stretch out your staff and strike the dust of the earth, that it may become gnats through all the land of Egypt.’” 17They did so; and Aaron stretched out his hand with his staff, and struck the dust of the earth, and there were gnats on man and beast. All the dust of the earth became gnats through all the land of Egypt. 18The magicians tried with their secret arts to bring forth gnats, but they could not; so there were gnats on man and beast. 19Then the magicians said to Pharaoh, “This is the finger of God.” But Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he did not listen to them, as the LORD had said.

Reflection on Exodus 8:16–19:
Unlike the previous plagues, there is no recorded warning given to Pharaoh before this one. God simply commands Moses to tell Aaron to strike the dust of the earth, and it becomes gnats throughout the land.

This sudden action emphasizes that God is not dependent on human response to act. He is fully in control.

The plague itself is all-encompassing. The dust of the earth—something ordinary and unnoticed—is transformed into a source of irritation and discomfort. What was once insignificant now becomes unavoidable.

Again, we see God demonstrating His authority over creation.

But this time, something different happens.

The magicians attempt to replicate the plague—and fail.

Up to this point, they had been able to imitate the signs to some degree. This may have given Pharaoh justification, in his mind, to dismiss what he was seeing. But now, that illusion is gone.

They come to a clear conclusion:

“This is the finger of God.”

This is a powerful admission.

Those who had previously opposed or imitated now recognize that what is happening is beyond human ability. They acknowledge that this is not trickery, not coincidence, not something they can explain or reproduce.

It is God.

This moment reveals an important truth: it is possible to recognize the reality of God without submitting to Him.

The magicians see it.
They say it.
But Pharaoh still refuses it.

Even with this testimony, Pharaoh’s heart remains hardened.

This is sobering.

Evidence alone does not change a person’s heart. Miracles alone do not produce obedience. Recognition is not the same as surrender.

This passage challenges a common assumption—that if people could just “see proof,” they would believe and follow God.

But Scripture shows otherwise.

Pharaoh has seen multiple signs. He now has confirmation from his own magicians. Yet he still refuses to listen.

Why?

Because the issue is not lack of evidence—it is the condition of the heart.

This leads us to an important reflection for our own lives.

We may acknowledge God.
We may recognize His work.
We may even speak truth about Him.

But the question is—do we submit to Him?

God is not seeking mere recognition. He is calling for obedience and surrender.

The magicians stop resisting. Pharaoh does not.

And that makes all the difference.

Application:

  • Do not confuse recognizing God with truly submitting to Him.
  • Examine your heart—are you responding with obedience or just acknowledgment?
  • Understand that evidence alone does not change the heart—surrender does.
  • Be willing to respond to God when He reveals Himself.
  • Guard against hardening your heart when truth becomes clear.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me not only to recognize You, but to fully submit to You. Soften my heart so that I respond with obedience when You reveal truth. Keep me from becoming hardened or resistant, even when I see clearly what You are doing. Lead me to a life of true surrender and faithfulness. 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.