Category Archives: Seeking God

Depression / Discouragement, Discipline / Guidance From God, Kindness / Gentleness, Seeking God, Tribulation

Grieving in Silence (Lamentations 2)

Have you ever found yourself speechless in the face of overwhelming tragedy, unable to find the words to express your grief?

In Lamentations 2, we enter into the profound silence that follows the devastation of Jerusalem, as the city’s inhabitants grapple with the unimaginable horrors that have befallen them. Join us as we journey through this poignant chapter, wrestling with the weight of sorrow and seeking solace amidst the silence.

Reconnect: As we delve into Lamentations 2, we are confronted with the stark reality of Jerusalem’s destruction and the profound silence that envelops the city in its aftermath. The once-vibrant metropolis now lies in ruins, its streets deserted and its people left to grapple with the agony of loss and despair. In this chapter, we encounter themes of mourning, lamentation, and the haunting echoes of a once-thriving city now reduced to silence.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Lamentations 2

God’s Anger over Israel

1How the Lord has covered the daughter of Zion
With a cloud in His anger!
He has cast from heaven to earth
The glory of Israel,
And has not remembered His footstool
In the day of His anger.

      2The Lord has swallowed up; He has not spared
All the habitations of Jacob.
In His wrath He has thrown down
The strongholds of the daughter of Judah;
He has brought them down to the ground;
He has profaned the kingdom and its princes.

      3In fierce anger He has cut off
All the strength of Israel;
He has drawn back His right hand
From before the enemy.
And He has burned in Jacob like a flaming fire
Consuming round about.

      4He has bent His bow like an enemy;
He has set His right hand like an adversary
And slain all that were pleasant to the eye;
In the tent of the daughter of Zion
He has poured out His wrath like fire.

      5The Lord has become like an enemy.
He has swallowed up Israel;
He has swallowed up all its palaces,
He has destroyed its strongholds
And multiplied in the daughter of Judah
Mourning and moaning.

      6And He has violently treated His tabernacle like a garden booth;
He has destroyed His appointed meeting place.
The LORD has caused to be forgotten
The appointed feast and sabbath in Zion,
And He has despised king and priest
In the indignation of His anger.

      7The Lord has rejected His altar,
He has abandoned His sanctuary;
He has delivered into the hand of the enemy
The walls of her palaces.
They have made a noise in the house of the LORD
As in the day of an appointed feast.

      8The LORD determined to destroy
The wall of the daughter of Zion.
He has stretched out a line,
He has not restrained His hand from destroying,
And He has caused rampart and wall to lament;
They have languished together.

      9Her gates have sunk into the ground,
He has destroyed and broken her bars.
Her king and her princes are among the nations;
The law is no more.
Also, her prophets find
No vision from the LORD.

      10The elders of the daughter of Zion
Sit on the ground, they are silent.
They have thrown dust on their heads;
They have girded themselves with sackcloth.
The virgins of Jerusalem
Have bowed their heads to the ground.

      11My eyes fail because of tears,
My spirit is greatly troubled;
My heart is poured out on the earth
Because of the destruction of the daughter of my people,
When little ones and infants faint
In the streets of the city.

      12They say to their mothers,
“Where is grain and wine?”
As they faint like a wounded man
In the streets of the city,
As their life is poured out
On their mothers’ bosom.

      13How shall I admonish you?
To what shall I compare you,
O daughter of Jerusalem?
To what shall I liken you as I comfort you,
O virgin daughter of Zion?
For your ruin is as vast as the sea;
Who can heal you?

      14Your prophets have seen for you
False and foolish visions;
And they have not exposed your iniquity
So as to restore you from captivity,
But they have seen for you false and misleading oracles.

      15All who pass along the way
Clap their hands in derision at you;
They hiss and shake their heads
At the daughter of Jerusalem,
“Is this the city of which they said,
‘The perfection of beauty,
A joy to all the earth’?”

      16All your enemies
Have opened their mouths wide against you;
They hiss and gnash their teeth.
They say, “We have swallowed her up!
Surely this is the day for which we waited;
We have reached it, we have seen it.”

      17The LORD has done what He purposed;
He has accomplished His word
Which He commanded from days of old.
He has thrown down without sparing,
And He has caused the enemy to rejoice over you;
He has exalted the might of your adversaries.

      18Their heart cried out to the Lord,
“O wall of the daughter of Zion,
Let your tears run down like a river day and night;
Give yourself no relief,
Let your eyes have no rest.

      19“Arise, cry aloud in the night
At the beginning of the night watches;
Pour out your heart like water
Before the presence of the Lord;
Lift up your hands to Him
For the life of your little ones
Who are faint because of hunger
At the head of every street.”

      20See, O LORD, and look!
With whom have You dealt thus?
Should women eat their offspring,
The little ones who were born healthy?
Should priest and prophet be slain
In the sanctuary of the Lord?

      21On the ground in the streets
Lie young and old;
My virgins and my young men
Have fallen by the sword.
You have slain them in the day of Your anger,
You have slaughtered, not sparing.

      22You called as in the day of an appointed feast
My terrors on every side;
And there was no one who escaped or survived
In the day of the LORD’S anger.
Those whom I bore and reared,
My enemy annihilated them.

Summary Key Points:

  1. A City Laid Waste: Lamentations 2 paints a harrowing picture of Jerusalem’s devastation, describing the city as a desolate wasteland laid waste by the hand of God. The once-glorious capital now lies in ruins, its walls breached, its temple defiled, and its people left to wander the streets in search of solace.
  2. Divine Judgment and Desolation: The destruction of Jerusalem is seen as a manifestation of divine judgment, a consequence of the city’s rebellion and sin. God’s wrath is depicted as fierce and relentless, sparing no one in its path as it lays waste to the once-proud city and its inhabitants.
  3. The Silence of Grief: Amidst the ruins of Jerusalem, we encounter the profound silence of grief, as the city’s inhabitants are left speechless in the face of unimaginable tragedy. The streets that once echoed with the sounds of life and laughter now lie silent, haunted by the memories of what once was.

Call to Action:

  1. Sit in Silence and Lament: Take time to sit in silence and lament the brokenness and suffering in our world, acknowledging the pain and sorrow that exists both individually and collectively. Allow yourself to grieve honestly and openly, knowing that God hears the cries of the brokenhearted and offers comfort in times of distress.
  2. Seek God’s Presence in the Silence: In the midst of the silence, seek God’s presence and companionship, knowing that He is near to the brokenhearted and the downtrodden. Find solace in His promises of comfort and restoration, trusting that He is able to bring beauty from ashes and joy from mourning.
  3. Bear Witness to the Suffering of Others: As you lament the brokenness in our world, commit to bearing witness to the suffering of others and extending compassion and support wherever it is needed. Stand in solidarity with those who are marginalized and oppressed, advocating for justice and mercy in the midst of despair.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, mourning the brokenness and suffering in our world. As we sit in silence and lament, we pray for Your presence to surround us, bringing comfort and hope in the midst of despair. Help us to bear witness to the suffering of others, extending Your love and compassion to all who are in need. 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, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Hope, Seeking God

A Cry in the Darkness (Lamentations 1)

Have you ever felt the weight of despair pressing down on your soul, enveloping you in darkness?

In Lamentations 1, we encounter the raw, poignant expressions of grief and anguish as Jerusalem mourns the devastation of its beloved city. Join us as we journey through this somber chapter, exploring the depths of sorrow and the glimmers of hope amidst the ruins.

Reconnect: As we delve into Lamentations 1, we immerse ourselves in the lament of Jerusalem, grappling with the aftermath of destruction and the profound sense of loss experienced by its inhabitants. In the midst of despair, we uncover themes of mourning, reflection, and a yearning for restoration that resonate with the human experience of suffering.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Lamentations  1

The Sorrows of Zion

1How lonely sits the city
That was full of people!
She has become like a widow
Who was once great among the nations!
She who was a princess among the provinces
Has become a forced laborer!

      2She weeps bitterly in the night
And her tears are on her cheeks;
She has none to comfort her
Among all her lovers.
All her friends have dealt treacherously with her;
They have become her enemies.

      3Judah has gone into exile under affliction
And under harsh servitude;
She dwells among the nations,
But she has found no rest;
All her pursuers have overtaken her
In the midst of distress.

      4The roads of Zion are in mourning
Because no one comes to the appointed feasts.
All her gates are desolate;
Her priests are groaning,
Her virgins are afflicted,
And she herself is bitter.

      5Her adversaries have become her masters,
Her enemies prosper;
For the LORD has caused her grief
Because of the multitude of her transgressions;
Her little ones have gone away
As captives before the adversary.

      6All her majesty
Has departed from the daughter of Zion;
Her princes have become like deer
That have found no pasture;
And they have fled without strength
Before the pursuer.

      7In the days of her affliction and homelessness
Jerusalem remembers all her precious things
That were from the days of old,
When her people fell into the hand of the adversary
And no one helped her.
The adversaries saw her,
They mocked at her ruin.

      8Jerusalem sinned greatly,
Therefore she has become an unclean thing.
All who honored her despise her
Because they have seen her nakedness;
Even she herself groans and turns away.

      9Her uncleanness was in her skirts;
She did not consider her future.
Therefore she has fallen astonishingly;
She has no comforter.
“See, O LORD, my affliction,
For the enemy has magnified himself!”

      10The adversary has stretched out his hand
Over all her precious things,
For she has seen the nations enter her sanctuary,
The ones whom You commanded
That they should not enter into Your congregation.

      11All her people groan seeking bread;
They have given their precious things for food
To restore their lives themselves.
“See, O LORD, and look,
For I am despised.”

      12“Is it nothing to all you who pass this way?
Look and see if there is any pain like my pain
Which was severely dealt out to me,
Which the LORD inflicted on the day of His fierce anger.

      13“From on high He sent fire into my bones,
And it prevailed over them.
He has spread a net for my feet;
He has turned me back;
He has made me desolate,
Faint all day long.

      14“The yoke of my transgressions is bound;
By His hand they are knit together.
They have come upon my neck;
He has made my strength fail.
The Lord has given me into the hands
Of those against whom I am not able to stand.

      15“The Lord has rejected all my strong men
In my midst;
He has called an appointed time against me
To crush my young men;
The Lord has trodden as in a wine press
The virgin daughter of Judah.

      16“For these things I weep;
My eyes run down with water;
Because far from me is a comforter,
One who restores my soul.
My children are desolate
Because the enemy has prevailed.”

      17Zion stretches out her hands;
There is no one to comfort her;
The LORD has commanded concerning Jacob
That the ones round about him should be his adversaries;
Jerusalem has become an unclean thing among them.

      18“The LORD is righteous;
For I have rebelled against His command;
Hear now, all peoples,
And behold my pain;
My virgins and my young men
Have gone into captivity.

      19“I called to my lovers, but they deceived me;
My priests and my elders perished in the city
While they sought food to restore their strength themselves.

      20“See, O LORD, for I am in distress;
My spirit is greatly troubled;
My heart is overturned within me,
For I have been very rebellious.
In the street the sword slays;
In the house it is like death.

      21“They have heard that I groan;
There is no one to comfort me;
All my enemies have heard of my calamity;
They are glad that You have done it.
Oh, that You would bring the day which You have proclaimed,
That they may become like me.

      22“Let all their wickedness come before You;
And deal with them as You have dealt with me
For all my transgressions;
For my groans are many and my heart is faint.”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Desolation and Devastation: Lamentations 1 paints a vivid picture of Jerusalem’s desolation, portraying the city as a widow bereft of her children. The once-thriving metropolis now lies in ruins, its streets deserted and its glory faded. The depth of despair is palpable as the inhabitants mourn the loss of their home and heritage.
  2. Divine Judgment and Lamentation: The lament of Jerusalem is intertwined with reflections on divine judgment, as the people grapple with the consequences of their rebellion against God. The city’s downfall is seen as a direct result of its disobedience, leading to a profound sense of remorse and repentance among its inhabitants.
  3. Hope Amidst Suffering: Despite the overwhelming despair depicted in Lamentations 1, there are glimpses of hope scattered throughout the text. Amidst the devastation, the people cling to the belief in God’s faithfulness and mercy, expressing confidence in His ability to eventually restore and redeem their broken city.

Call to Action:

  1. Acknowledge and Express Grief: Take time to acknowledge and express your grief and sorrow, recognizing that it is a natural part of the human experience. Allow yourself to lament and pour out your heart before God, knowing that He hears the cries of the brokenhearted and offers comfort in times of distress.
  2. Reflect on Personal and Collective Sin: Use the lament of Jerusalem as an opportunity for personal and collective reflection on sin and its consequences. Consider areas of disobedience in your own life and in society, and seek forgiveness and reconciliation where needed.
  3. Cling to Hope in God’s Faithfulness: Even in the darkest moments, cling to the hope found in God’s faithfulness and promises. Trust that He is able to bring beauty from ashes and restoration from ruin, and anchor your faith in His unchanging character and love.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, echoing the lament of Jerusalem as we mourn the brokenness and suffering in our world. Amidst the darkness, we cling to the hope found in Your faithfulness and mercy, trusting that You are able to bring healing and restoration to the broken places. Help us to lament with honesty and humility, and to find comfort and strength in Your presence. 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, Faithful, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Righteous, Seeking God

Finding Refuge in God’s Strength (Psalm 71)

Have you ever found yourself in the midst of life’s storms, seeking refuge from the relentless waves of adversity?

Psalm 71 extends an invitation to take shelter in the unwavering strength of God, even in the face of trials and tribulations.

Reconnect: In Psalm 71, the psalmist continues to pour out their heart to God, seeking His protection and deliverance from enemies and afflictions. This heartfelt plea echoes themes of trust and dependence on God’s steadfast love, which have been evident throughout the Psalms.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 71

Prayer of an Old Man for Deliverance.

     1In You, O LORD, I have taken refuge;
Let me never be ashamed.

      2In Your righteousness deliver me and rescue me;
Incline Your ear to me and save me.

      3Be to me a rock of habitation to which I may continually come;
You have given commandment to save me,
For You are my rock and my fortress.

      4Rescue me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked,
Out of the grasp of the wrongdoer and ruthless man,

      5For You are my hope;
O Lord GOD, You are my confidence from my youth.

      6By You I have been sustained from my birth;
You are He who took me from my mother’s womb;
My praise is continually of You.

      7I have become a marvel to many,
For You are my strong refuge.

      8My mouth is filled with Your praise
And with Your glory all day long.

      9Do not cast me off in the time of old age;
Do not forsake me when my strength fails.

      10For my enemies have spoken against me;
And those who watch for my life have consulted together,

      11Saying, “God has forsaken him;
Pursue and seize him, for there is no one to deliver.”

      12O God, do not be far from me;
O my God, hasten to my help!

      13Let those who are adversaries of my soul be ashamed and consumed;
Let them be covered with reproach and dishonor, who seek to injure me.

      14But as for me, I will hope continually,
And will praise You yet more and more.

      15My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness
And of Your salvation all day long;
For I do not know the sum of them.

      16I will come with the mighty deeds of the Lord GOD;
I will make mention of Your righteousness, Yours alone.

      17O God, You have taught me from my youth,
And I still declare Your wondrous deeds.

      18And even when I am old and gray, O God, do not forsake me,
Until I declare Your strength to this generation,
Your power to all who are to come.

      19For Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the heavens,
You who have done great things;
O God, who is like You?

      20You who have shown me many troubles and distresses
Will revive me again,
And will bring me up again from the depths of the earth.

      21May You increase my greatness
And turn to comfort me.

      22I will also praise You with a harp,
Even Your truth, O my God;
To You I will sing praises with the lyre,
O Holy One of Israel.

      23My lips will shout for joy when I sing praises to You;
And my soul, which You have redeemed.

      24My tongue also will utter Your righteousness all day long;
For they are ashamed, for they are humiliated who seek my hurt.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Seeking God’s Protection: The psalmist fervently implores God to be their refuge and stronghold in times of trouble. Amidst the plots of enemies and the onslaught of adversity, they find solace in God’s unwavering presence and protection.
  2. Reflecting on God’s Faithfulness: Through a retrospective lens, the psalmist recalls God’s faithfulness throughout their life, from their earliest days to the present moment. This reflection serves as a source of encouragement and a reminder of God’s enduring love and care.
  3. Declaring God’s Righteousness: Amidst the challenges and uncertainties of life, the psalmist boldly declares God’s righteousness and praises Him for His mighty works. In doing so, they reaffirm their trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness, even when circumstances may suggest otherwise.

Call to Action:

As we meditate on Psalm 71, let us:

  • Seek Refuge in God: In moments of trial and distress, let us turn to God as our refuge and strength, trusting in His unfailing love and protection.
  • Reflect on His Faithfulness: Take time to reflect on God’s faithfulness in your own life, remembering His past provisions and deliverances as a source of hope for the future.
  • Declare His Righteousness: Like the psalmist, let us boldly declare God’s righteousness and praise Him for His mighty works, even in the midst of adversity.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for being our refuge and strength, a present help in times of trouble. As we reflect on Psalm 71, may we find renewed confidence in Your steadfast love and faithfulness. Grant us the courage to declare Your righteousness and praise You in all circumstances. In Your holy 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.

Depression / Discouragement, Humility, Patient, Seeking God, Tribulation

Understanding Divine Justice: Insights from Job 35

Have you ever questioned the fairness of life’s circumstances, wondering why the righteous sometimes suffer while the wicked seem to prosper?

In Job 35, Elihu offers insights into the nature of divine justice, challenging conventional wisdom and prompting us to rethink our understanding of God’s ways.

Reconnect: As we delve into Job 35, we are reminded of the ongoing dialogue between Job and his friends, each grappling with the profound mysteries of human suffering and divine justice. Elihu’s perspective adds a new dimension to the conversation, urging us to consider the complexities of God’s sovereignty and the limitations of human understanding.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 35

Elihu Sharply Reproves Job

      1Then Elihu continued and said,

      2“Do you think this is according to justice?
Do you say, ‘My righteousness is more than God’s’?

      3“For you say, ‘What advantage will it be to You?
What profit will I have, more than if I had sinned?’

      4“I will answer you,
And your friends with you.

      5“Look at the heavens and see;
And behold the clouds—they are higher than you.

      6“If you have sinned, what do you accomplish against Him?
And if your transgressions are many, what do you do to Him?

      7“If you are righteous, what do you give to Him,
Or what does He receive from your hand?

      8“Your wickedness is for a man like yourself,
And your righteousness is for a son of man.

      9“Because of the multitude of oppressions they cry out;
They cry for help because of the arm of the mighty.

      10“But no one says, ‘Where is God my Maker,
Who gives songs in the night,

      11Who teaches us more than the beasts of the earth
And makes us wiser than the birds of the heavens?’

      12“There they cry out, but He does not answer
Because of the pride of evil men.

      13“Surely God will not listen to an empty cry,
Nor will the Almighty regard it.

      14“How much less when you say you do not behold Him,
The case is before Him, and you must wait for Him!

      15“And now, because He has not visited in His anger,
Nor has He acknowledged transgression well,

      16So Job opens his mouth emptily;
He multiplies words without knowledge.”

Summary Key Points:

  • Elihu’s Assertion of Divine Justice: Elihu begins by asserting the righteousness of God’s judgments, challenging Job’s assertion that his suffering is unjust. He emphasizes that God’s justice transcends human comprehension and operates on a higher plane of wisdom and righteousness.
  • The Limitations of Human Righteousness: Elihu highlights the fallacy of attributing one’s righteousness to God’s benefit, arguing that human goodness does not elevate or diminish God’s glory. He underscores the importance of humility before the Almighty, recognizing our inherent limitations and dependence on His grace.
  • The Call to Await God’s Response: Elihu admonishes Job for presuming to dictate the terms of God’s justice, urging him to await divine vindication rather than questioning God’s integrity. He emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s wisdom and timing, even in the face of uncertainty and suffering.

Call to Action:

As we reflect on the insights of Job 35, let us respond with:

  • Humility Before God: Let us cultivate a spirit of humility and reverence in our relationship with God, acknowledging His sovereignty and wisdom. May we surrender our doubts and questions to Him, trusting in His righteous judgments.
  • Patience in Waiting: In moments of trial and uncertainty, let us patiently await God’s response, knowing that His timing is perfect and His purposes are just. May we resist the temptation to demand answers and instead rest in the assurance of His faithfulness.
  • Seeking Understanding: Let us earnestly seek to deepen our understanding of God’s ways, studying His Word and seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit. May we approach the complexities of divine justice with an open heart and mind, trusting in God’s goodness and wisdom.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, grant us the humility to submit to Your sovereign rule and the patience to await Your righteous judgments. Help us to trust in Your wisdom and goodness, even when we cannot fully comprehend Your ways. Lead us in paths of righteousness, and grant us the grace to surrender our doubts and questions to You. Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Depression / Discouragement, Learning To Pray Effectively, Psalms, Seeking God, Tribulation

A Cry for Deliverance: Psalm 69

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the trials and tribulations of life, crying out to God for deliverance from the depths of despair?

In Psalm 69, we encounter the heartfelt plea of the psalmist as he wrestles with adversity, persecution, and the weight of his own sin.

Join us as we explore the raw honesty and unwavering faith expressed in this psalm, finding hope and solace in the midst of suffering.

Reconnect: In the preceding psalms, we have witnessed the psalmist’s intimate communion with God, pouring out his heart in times of both joy and sorrow. In Psalm 69, we encounter a deeply personal and poignant expression of the psalmist’s anguish and desperation, as he cries out to God for deliverance from his enemies and the consequences of his own sin.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Psalm 69

A Cry of Distress and Imprecation on Adversaries.

For the choir director; according to Shoshannim. A Psalm of David.

     1Save me, O God,
For the waters have threatened my life.

      2I have sunk in deep mire, and there is no foothold;
I have come into deep waters, and a flood overflows me.

      3I am weary with my crying; my throat is parched;
My eyes fail while I wait for my God.

      4Those who hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of my head;
Those who would destroy me are powerful, being wrongfully my enemies;
What I did not steal, I then have to restore.

      5O God, it is You who knows my folly,
And my wrongs are not hidden from You.

      6May those who wait for You not be ashamed through me, O Lord GOD of hosts;
May those who seek You not be dishonored through me, O God of Israel,

      7Because for Your sake I have borne reproach;
Dishonor has covered my face.

      8I have become estranged from my brothers
And an alien to my mother’s sons.

      9For zeal for Your house has consumed me,
And the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me.

      10When I wept in my soul with fasting,
It became my reproach.

      11When I made sackcloth my clothing,
I became a byword to them.

      12Those who sit in the gate talk about me,
And I am the song of the drunkards.

      13But as for me, my prayer is to You, O LORD, at an acceptable time;
O God, in the greatness of Your lovingkindness,
Answer me with Your saving truth.

      14Deliver me from the mire and do not let me sink;
May I be delivered from my foes and from the deep waters.

      15May the flood of water not overflow me
Nor the deep swallow me up,
Nor the pit shut its mouth on me.

      16Answer me, O LORD, for Your lovingkindness is good;
According to the greatness of Your compassion, turn to me,

      17And do not hide Your face from Your servant,
For I am in distress; answer me quickly.

      18Oh draw near to my soul and redeem it;
Ransom me because of my enemies!

      19You know my reproach and my shame and my dishonor;
All my adversaries are before You.

      20Reproach has broken my heart and I am so sick.
And I looked for sympathy, but there was none,
And for comforters, but I found none.

      21They also gave me gall for my food
And for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.

      22May their table before them become a snare;
And when they are in peace, may it become a trap.

      23May their eyes grow dim so that they cannot see,
And make their loins shake continually.

      24Pour out Your indignation on them,
And may Your burning anger overtake them.

      25May their camp be desolate;
May none dwell in their tents.

      26For they have persecuted him whom You Yourself have smitten,
And they tell of the pain of those whom You have wounded.

      27Add iniquity to their iniquity,
And may they not come into Your righteousness.

      28May they be blotted out of the book of life
And may they not be recorded with the righteous.

      29But I am afflicted and in pain;
May Your salvation, O God, set me securely on high.

      30I will praise the name of God with song
And magnify Him with thanksgiving.

      31And it will please the LORD better than an ox
Or a young bull with horns and hoofs.

      32The humble have seen it and are glad;
You who seek God, let your heart revive.

      33For the LORD hears the needy
And does not despise His who are prisoners.

      34Let heaven and earth praise Him,
The seas and everything that moves in them.

      35For God will save Zion and build the cities of Judah,
That they may dwell there and possess it.

      36The descendants of His servants will inherit it,
And those who love His name will dwell in it.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Desperate Plea for Deliverance (Psalm 69:1-12): The psalmist begins by crying out to God in distress, overwhelmed by the hostility and persecution of his enemies. He describes his suffering in vivid imagery, comparing it to being engulfed by deep waters and sinking into the mire. Despite his anguish, the psalmist expresses unwavering trust in God, confident that He will come to his rescue.
  2. Endurance Amidst Mockery and Shame (Psalm 69:13-21): The psalmist continues to recount his suffering at the hands of his enemies, enduring mockery, shame, and betrayal. He laments his isolation and loneliness, feeling abandoned even by his closest companions. Yet, amidst his despair, the psalmist maintains his trust in God, appealing to Him for deliverance and vindication.
  3. Prayer for Vindication and Restoration (Psalm 69:22-36): In the final section of the psalm, the tone shifts from lament to petition as the psalmist calls upon God to execute judgment upon his enemies and bring about justice and vindication. He expresses confidence that God will hear his prayers and answer them, restoring him to a place of honor and blessing. The psalm concludes with a declaration of praise and thanksgiving, as the psalmist anticipates God’s deliverance and salvation.

Call to Action:

As we meditate on the profound themes of Psalm 69, let us consider how we can apply its truths to our own lives:

  1. Honesty in Prayer: Like the psalmist, let us cultivate a spirit of honesty and vulnerability in our prayers, laying bare our hearts before God and pouring out our deepest fears, anxieties, and desires. Let us not shy away from expressing our struggles and doubts but approach God with humility and openness.
  2. Trust in God’s Faithfulness: Despite the trials and tribulations we may face, let us hold fast to the assurance of God’s faithfulness and steadfast love. Let us anchor our hope in His promises, confident that He hears our cries and is ever-present in our times of need. Let us trust in His timing and His ways, knowing that He works all things together for our good.
  3. Perseverance in Faith: In moments of adversity and suffering, let us persevere in faith, knowing that our God is a God of deliverance and redemption. Let us not lose heart or grow weary but continue to lift our eyes to Him, seeking His strength and guidance to navigate the challenges of life. Let us draw near to Him in prayer and worship, finding comfort and assurance in His presence.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts laid bare, echoing the cries of the psalmist for deliverance and salvation. In the midst of our trials and tribulations, grant us the grace to trust in Your unfailing love and to find hope and solace in Your presence. Hear our prayers, O Lord, and come to our aid, delivering us from every form of adversity and restoring us to a place of wholeness and blessing. May Your name be glorified forevermore. Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Depression / Discouragement, Fear / Reverence for God, Justice / Judgment, Seeking God, Tribulation, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Integrity and Justice: Job’s Stand in Job 31

Have you ever stood at the crossroads of decision, faced with the choice between integrity and compromise, justice and injustice?

In Job 31, we witness Job’s unwavering commitment to righteousness and his impassioned plea for justice as he defends his innocence amidst overwhelming adversity.

Join us as we delve into the depths of Job’s character and explore the profound lessons of integrity and justice found within this chapter.

Reconnect: In the preceding chapters of the book of Job, we have witnessed Job’s profound suffering and the relentless scrutiny of his friends as they attempt to explain his misfortune. Despite their accusations and insinuations, Job remains steadfast in his conviction of innocence and his unwavering commitment to righteousness. In Job 31, we find Job making his final defense, passionately declaring his integrity and pleading for justice before God.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 31

Job Asserts His Integrity

1“I have made a covenant with my eyes;
How then could I gaze at a virgin?

      2“And what is the portion of God from above
Or the heritage of the Almighty from on high?

      3“Is it not calamity to the unjust
And disaster to those who work iniquity?

      4“Does He not see my ways
And number all my steps?

      5“If I have walked with falsehood,
And my foot has hastened after deceit,

      6Let Him weigh me with accurate scales,
And let God know my integrity.

      7“If my step has turned from the way,
Or my heart followed my eyes,
Or if any spot has stuck to my hands,

      8Let me sow and another eat,
And let my crops be uprooted.

      9“If my heart has been enticed by a woman,
Or I have lurked at my neighbor’s doorway,

      10May my wife grind for another,
And let others kneel down over her.

      11“For that would be a lustful crime;
Moreover, it would be an iniquity punishable by judges.

      12“For it would be fire that consumes to Abaddon,
And would uproot all my increase.

      13“If I have despised the claim of my male or female slaves
When they filed a complaint against me,

      14What then could I do when God arises?
And when He calls me to account, what will I answer Him?

      15“Did not He who made me in the womb make him,
And the same one fashion us in the womb?

      16“If I have kept the poor from their desire,
Or have caused the eyes of the widow to fail,

      17Or have eaten my morsel alone,
And the orphan has not shared it

      18(But from my youth he grew up with me as with a father,
And from infancy I guided her),

      19If I have seen anyone perish for lack of clothing,
Or that the needy had no covering,

      20If his loins have not thanked me,
And if he has not been warmed with the fleece of my sheep,

      21If I have lifted up my hand against the orphan,
Because I saw I had support in the gate,

      22Let my shoulder fall from the socket,
And my arm be broken off at the elbow.

      23“For calamity from God is a terror to me,
And because of His majesty I can do nothing.

      24“If I have put my confidence in gold,
And called fine gold my trust,

      25If I have gloated because my wealth was great,
And because my hand had secured so much;

      26If I have looked at the sun when it shone
Or the moon going in splendor,

      27And my heart became secretly enticed,
And my hand threw a kiss from my mouth,

      28That too would have been an iniquity calling for judgment,
For I would have denied God above.

      29“Have I rejoiced at the extinction of my enemy,
Or exulted when evil befell him?

      30“No, I have not allowed my mouth to sin
By asking for his life in a curse.

      31“Have the men of my tent not said,
‘Who can find one who has not been satisfied with his meat’?

      32“The alien has not lodged outside,
For I have opened my doors to the traveler.

      33“Have I covered my transgressions like Adam,
By hiding my iniquity in my bosom,

      34Because I feared the great multitude,
And the contempt of families terrified me,
And kept silent and did not go out of doors?

      35“Oh that I had one to hear me!
Behold, here is my signature;
Let the Almighty answer me!
And the indictment which my adversary has written,

      36Surely I would carry it on my shoulder,
I would bind it to myself like a crown.

      37“I would declare to Him the number of my steps;
Like a prince I would approach Him.

      38“If my land cries out against me,
And its furrows weep together;

      39If I have eaten its fruit without money,
Or have caused its owners to lose their lives,

      40Let briars grow instead of wheat,
And stinkweed instead of barley.”
The words of Job are ended.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Oath of Innocence (Job 31:1-12): Job begins his defense by solemnly swearing an oath of innocence before God, pledging his integrity and righteousness in various areas of his life. He declares his commitment to purity of heart, fidelity in marriage, and compassion towards the poor and oppressed. Job vehemently denies any involvement in adultery, deceit, or mistreatment of others, affirming his blamelessness before God.
  2. Job’s Lamentation of Injustice (Job 31:13-23): Job expresses his anguish over the prevalence of injustice and oppression in society, lamenting the plight of the marginalized and vulnerable. He denounces the exploitation of the poor and the mistreatment of servants, expressing his deep empathy for those who suffer unjustly. Job passionately appeals to God as the ultimate arbiter of justice, imploring Him to vindicate the righteous and punish the wicked.
  3. Job’s Fear of God’s Judgment (Job 31:24-40): Job concludes his defense by acknowledging his fear of God’s judgment and his awareness of the consequences of wrongdoing. He confesses his reverence for God and his recognition of divine retribution for those who turn from righteousness. Job expresses his willingness to submit to God’s scrutiny and invites Him to weigh his integrity and righteousness in the balance of justice.

Call to Action:

As we reflect on the profound truths found in Job 31, let us consider how we can apply its lessons to our own lives:

  1. Integrity in Action: Like Job, let us strive to maintain unwavering integrity in all areas of our lives, upholding righteousness and purity of heart even in the face of adversity and temptation. Let us be people of honesty, sincerity, and moral uprightness, reflecting the character of God in our words and deeds.
  2. Justice and Compassion: Let us cultivate a heart of compassion towards the marginalized and oppressed, advocating for justice and righteousness in our communities and society. Let us stand up against injustice and oppression wherever we encounter it, seeking to be agents of positive change and transformation in the world around us.
  3. Fear of God and Humility: Let us cultivate a healthy fear of God, acknowledging His sovereignty and righteousness, and recognizing our own accountability before Him. Let us humbly submit ourselves to His scrutiny, inviting His examination of our hearts and lives, and seeking His guidance and direction in all things.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the example of integrity and justice we find in the life of Job. Help us to emulate his unwavering commitment to righteousness and his passionate plea for justice in our own lives. Give us the strength to uphold integrity in all that we do, to advocate for justice and compassion, and to cultivate a humble fear of You. May our lives be a reflection of Your righteousness and grace. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Depression / Discouragement, Seeking God, Tribulation

From Honor to Humiliation: Job’s Descent into Suffering (Job 30)

Have you ever experienced a dramatic reversal of fortune, where honor and respect were replaced by humiliation and suffering?

In Job 30, we witness Job’s poignant reflection on his descent from a position of honor and respect to one of profound suffering and contempt.

Join us as we delve into this chapter and explore Job’s raw expression of anguish and despair amidst his afflictions.

Reconnect: In the previous chapter, Job reminisced about the days of his prosperity and the honor he once enjoyed in his community. However, in Job 30, we witness a stark contrast as Job laments his current state of suffering and degradation.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 30

Job’s Present State Is Humiliating

1“But now those younger than I mock me,
Whose fathers I disdained to put with the dogs of my flock.

      2“Indeed, what good was the strength of their hands to me?
Vigor had perished from them.

      3“From want and famine they are gaunt
Who gnaw the dry ground by night in waste and desolation,

      4Who pluck mallow by the bushes,
And whose food is the root of the broom shrub.

      5“They are driven from the community;
They shout against them as against a thief,

      6So that they dwell in dreadful valleys,
In holes of the earth and of the rocks.

      7“Among the bushes they cry out;
Under the nettles they are gathered together.

      8“Fools, even those without a name,
They were scourged from the land.

      9“And now I have become their taunt,
I have even become a byword to them.

      10“They abhor me and stand aloof from me,
And they do not refrain from spitting at my face.

      11“Because He has loosed His bowstring and afflicted me,
They have cast off the bridle before me.

      12“On the right hand their brood arises;
They thrust aside my feet and build up against me their ways of destruction.

      13“They break up my path,
They profit from my destruction;
No one restrains them.

      14“As through a wide breach they come,
Amid the tempest they roll on.

      15“Terrors are turned against me;
They pursue my honor as the wind,
And my prosperity has passed away like a cloud.

      16“And now my soul is poured out within me;
Days of affliction have seized me.

      17“At night it pierces my bones within me,
And my gnawing pains take no rest.

      18“By a great force my garment is distorted;
It binds me about as the collar of my coat.

      19“He has cast me into the mire,
And I have become like dust and ashes.

      20“I cry out to You for help, but You do not answer me;
I stand up, and You turn Your attention against me.

      21“You have become cruel to me;
With the might of Your hand You persecute me.

      22“You lift me up to the wind and cause me to ride;
And You dissolve me in a storm.

      23“For I know that You will bring me to death
And to the house of meeting for all living.

      24“Yet does not one in a heap of ruins stretch out his hand,
Or in his disaster therefore cry out for help?

      25“Have I not wept for the one whose life is hard?
Was not my soul grieved for the needy?

      26“When I expected good, then evil came;
When I waited for light, then darkness came.

      27“I am seething within and cannot relax;
Days of affliction confront me.

      28“I go about mourning without comfort;
I stand up in the assembly and cry out for help.

      29“I have become a brother to jackals
And a companion of ostriches.

      30“My skin turns black on me,
And my bones burn with fever.

      31“Therefore my harp is turned to mourning,
And my flute to the sound of those who weep.

Summary Key Points:

  1. From Honor to Contempt (Job 30:1-15): Job begins by describing how he has become the object of mockery and scorn among the younger generation. Once esteemed as a leader and respected elder, Job now finds himself cast aside and treated with contempt by those who once revered him. He laments the loss of his dignity and the degradation of his once honorable reputation.
  2. Overwhelmed by Affliction (Job 30:16-23): Job expresses the depth of his suffering and anguish, feeling as though he is engulfed by the terrors of God’s judgment. He describes how his body is racked with pain, his skin is covered with sores, and his days are filled with sorrow and despair. Despite his cries for help, Job feels abandoned by both God and humanity, left to endure his afflictions alone.
  3. A Cry for Justice (Job 30:24-31): In the final section of the chapter, Job appeals to God for justice and vindication. He pleads for God to intervene on his behalf, to bring an end to his suffering and to deliver him from the hands of his oppressors. Job maintains his innocence and righteousness, refusing to accept the accusations and condemnation of his detractors.

Call to Action:

As we reflect on Job’s descent into suffering in Job 30, let’s consider how we can apply its lessons to our own lives:

  1. Empathy and Compassion: Take time to empathize with those who are experiencing suffering and adversity. Reach out to offer your support, encouragement, and prayers to those who are facing difficult circumstances, knowing that your compassion can make a difference in their lives.
  2. Perseverance in Faith: Like Job, trust in God’s faithfulness and goodness, even in the midst of trials and tribulations. Hold fast to your faith and confidence in God’s sovereignty, knowing that He is able to bring beauty from ashes and to restore what has been lost.
  3. Advocacy for the Vulnerable: Be an advocate for those who are marginalized and oppressed, speaking out against injustice and standing up for the rights of the downtrodden. Use your voice and influence to bring about positive change in your community and to uplift those who are suffering.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we lift up to you all those who are experiencing suffering and affliction, just as Job did in Job 30. Grant them strength, courage, and comfort in the midst of their trials, knowing that you are always with them. Help us to be channels of your love and compassion, reaching out to support and encourage those who are in need. May we trust in your faithfulness and goodness, even in the darkest of times, knowing that you are able to bring light and hope into every situation. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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

John Golda

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

All Powerful / King of All, Depression / Discouragement, Discipline / Guidance From God, Help / Serve Others, Seeking God, Tribulation

Job Rebukes Bildad While Acknowledging God’s Unfathomable Power (Job 26)

Have you ever found yourself frustrated by well-intentioned advice that misses the mark, leaving you longing for deeper understanding and meaning in the face of life’s challenges?

In Job 26, we witness Job’s response to Bildad’s counsel, which falls short of addressing the profound mysteries of his suffering. Join us as we delve into Job’s rebuke of Bildad and his awe-inspiring acknowledgment of God’s incomparable power amidst ongoing tension with his friends.

Reconnect: In the preceding chapters, Job has been locked in a heated debate with his friends, who insist that his afflictions are a result of his own sin. Job maintains his innocence and wrestles with the mysteries of his suffering.

Now, in Job 26, he responds to Bildad’s speech by agreeing that God’s unmatched might is obvious but calling out the inadequacy of his friend’s counsel.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 26

Job Rebukes Bildad

      1Then Job responded,

      2“What a help you are to the weak!
How you have saved the arm without strength!

      3“What counsel you have given to one without wisdom!
What helpful insight you have abundantly provided!

      4“To whom have you uttered words?
And whose spirit was expressed through you?


The Greatness of God

5“The departed spirits tremble
Under the waters and their inhabitants.

      6“Naked is Sheol before Him,
And Abaddon has no covering.

      7“He stretches out the north over empty space
And hangs the earth on nothing.

      8“He wraps up the waters in His clouds,
And the cloud does not burst under them.

      9“He obscures the face of the full moon
And spreads His cloud over it.

      10“He has inscribed a circle on the surface of the waters
At the boundary of light and darkness.

      11“The pillars of heaven tremble
And are amazed at His rebuke.

      12“He quieted the sea with His power,
And by His understanding He shattered Rahab.

      13“By His breath the heavens are cleared;
His hand has pierced the fleeing serpent.

      14“Behold, these are the fringes of His ways;
And how faint a word we hear of Him!
But His mighty thunder, who can understand?”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Rebuke of Bildad: Job begins his response by rebuking Bildad’s unhelpful counsel, highlighting its failure to provide answers to his deep questions about suffering.
  2. God’s Unfathomable Power: Job praises God’s incomprehensible power, emphasizing His ability to suspend the earth over nothingness and to govern the universe with divine wisdom.
  3. Ongoing Tension: This passage illustrates the ongoing tension between Job and his friends, as he challenges their understanding and seeks deeper insights into the mysteries of his suffering.
  4. Job’s Profound Acknowledgment: Despite the disagreements and frustrations, Job acknowledges the majesty of God’s creation, underscoring the humility that comes with recognizing our human limitations.

Call to Action: Let Job’s response remind us of the importance of seeking a deeper understanding of God’s ways in the midst of life’s challenges. Reflect on moments when well-intentioned advice fell short and left you seeking a higher wisdom. Offer a prayer for wisdom and guidance in times of uncertainty and frustration.

Prayer: Gracious God, we acknowledge Your unfathomable wisdom and power. Help us to seek deeper understanding in times of confusion and frustration. Grant us the humility to recognize our limitations and the patience to await Your divine answers. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion: Share your thoughts on Job’s rebuke of Bildad and the ongoing tension between Job and his friends. Reflect on the importance of seeking deeper understanding and wisdom when facing life’s profound questions. Engage in a conversation with friends or family, exploring the significance of humility in our faith journey.

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, Discerning / Judging, Seeking God, Share the Good News, Study the Word

Nurturing Spiritual Growth: A Call to Faithful Living (1 Timothy 4:6-16)

Have you ever considered the significance of spiritual growth in your faith journey?

In a world filled with distractions and temptations, nurturing our spiritual lives is essential.

The apostle Paul, in 1 Timothy 4:6-16, offers timeless wisdom to guide us in this pursuit. Let’s explore how we can faithfully grow in our relationship with God.

Reconnect: In the preceding verses of 1 Timothy, Paul addresses the importance of discerning true teachings from deceptive doctrines. Now, he continues his letter to Timothy by emphasizing the value of spiritual growth and leadership within the church.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

1 Timothy 4:6-16

A Good Minister’s Discipline

     6In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following. 7But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; 8for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 9It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance. 10For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers.

      11Prescribe and teach these things. 12Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. 13Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching. 14Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. 15Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. 16Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Nourishing Spiritual Disciplines: Paul encourages Timothy to be a good servant of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and sound doctrine. Spiritual growth begins with a commitment to the Word of God and a lifestyle that reflects its teachings.
  2. Rejecting Worldly Myths: The apostle advises Timothy to reject profane and old wives’ tales, focusing instead on godliness. In a culture filled with distractions and false beliefs, maintaining our spiritual course requires discernment and a steadfast commitment to what is true.
  3. Setting an Example: Paul reminds Timothy that his life should serve as an example to believers in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Our actions speak volumes about our faith, and as we grow spiritually, we become living testimonies of God’s grace.
  4. Investing in Spiritual Gifts: Timothy is encouraged not to neglect the spiritual gift he received. We are all uniquely gifted by God, and using these gifts for His glory is an essential part of our spiritual growth.
  5. Progressive Growth: Paul underscores the idea of progressing in spiritual maturity. Timothy is advised to give himself entirely to these matters, ensuring that his progress is evident to all.

Call to Action: As believers, we are called to prioritize our spiritual growth. Let us commit to daily nourishing our souls with God’s Word, rejecting worldly distractions, and setting a Christ-like example for others. We should also invest in and utilize the spiritual gifts God has entrusted to us, continually striving for progressive growth in our faith.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your guidance and wisdom found in Your Word. Help us to prioritize our spiritual growth, nurturing our faith through prayer, study, and a commitment to godly living. May we be examples to others and use our spiritual gifts for Your glory. Strengthen us to progress in our walk with You day by day. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion Prompt: Share your reflections on the importance of spiritual growth in the Christian journey. How can you actively nurture your faith, set an example for others, and invest in your spiritual gifts?

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.

Discerning / Judging, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, False Prophets / Teachers, Seeking God, Study the Word

Discerning True Teaching from Deceptive Doctrines (1 Timothy 4:1-5)

Have you ever questioned the authenticity of the teachings you encounter in the world today? With various voices vying for our attention, it can be challenging to discern true wisdom from deceptive doctrines.

In 1 Timothy 4:1-5, the apostle Paul provides essential insights into this ongoing spiritual battle. Let’s explore how we can safeguard our faith by recognizing and adhering to the truth.

Reconnect: In the preceding chapters of 1 Timothy, Paul, writing to Timothy, offers guidance on church leadership, conduct, and the importance of prayer. Now, he turns his attention to a critical issue: discerning true teachings from deceptive doctrines.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

1 Timothy 4:1-5

Apostasy

     1But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, 2by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron, 3men who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God has created to be gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth. 4For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; 5for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.

Summary Key Points:

  1. The Age of Deception: Paul warns Timothy that in the latter times, some will depart from the faith and follow deceitful spirits and teachings of demons. It’s essential to recognize that deception can infiltrate the church, so believers must remain vigilant and discerning.
  2. Identifying False Teachings: As examples, Paul specifically addresses false teachings that forbid marriage and certain foods. He explains that God created these things to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.
    • True wisdom discerns and acknowledges that God’s definition of “food” should guide our choices. Many will consider this statement from our culture and time and conclude Paul was saying we could eat anything so long as we are thankful. However, discernment considers this scripture from the perspective of Paul’s time and culture. When he speaks of food, he refers to what God defines as food, not everything we could put in our mouth and eat… and not everything we consider ‘food’ today in our culture.
    • Paul was talking about those who would exclude things God considered ‘food’ and teach it was wrong in God’s eyes for us to eat it.
  3. The Role of God’s Word: The antidote to deceptive doctrines is the Word of God. We must seek truth in the word and challenge commonly accepted ‘doctrine’ or understanding against the written word of God. Our foundation for discernment is rooted in Scripture and a prayerful heart.

The example of food used above is just one example where teachings even in some churches are leading many in the wrong direction. There are many more… such as current views on abortion, homosexuality, transgender, ignoring Sabbath, ignoring God’s appointed times (Leviticus 23), and so on.

Call to Action: As we navigate a world filled with diverse teachings and ideas, let us commit to challenging cultural norms even within the church and studying and meditating on God’s Word regularly. We should seek discernment through prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth. Additionally, let’s engage in conversations with fellow believers to share insights and discuss how to apply God’s wisdom in our lives.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Word, which is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. As we encounter various teachings and doctrines, help us discern what aligns with Your truth and what does not. May Your Holy Spirit guide us, granting us wisdom to recognize deceptive doctrines and remain steadfast in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion Prompt: Share your thoughts on how you discern true teachings from deceptive doctrines in today’s world. How can you strengthen your foundation in God’s Word and prayer to remain rooted in truth?

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.