Category Archives: Traditions / Holidays

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Is the Old Testament Relevant Today?, Traditions / Holidays

Rediscovering Our Spiritual Seasons: Embracing YHWH’s Appointed Times

Have you ever paused to think about the holidays we celebrate and where they come from? As the leaves begin to turn and we enter the season of fall moedim, it’s a perfect time to explore the rich tapestry of God’s appointed festivals and what they truly signify.

Raised in a Christian household, we attended church regularly but didn’t delve deeply into the Bible’s teachings or question the cultural norms that shaped our celebrations. Like many, I grew up celebrating holidays that, unbeknownst to me, had more to do with pagan traditions than the commands of YHWH. It was only later that I discovered the moedim, the times appointed by God for special remembrance and celebration, which opened a new chapter in my spiritual journey.

Awakening to the Moedim: YHWH’s appointed times, detailed in Leviticus 23 and throughout Scripture, offer a profound connection to the past deeds and future promises of God. These are not just historical commemorations but are vibrant celebrations of what Christ has fulfilled and what He promises to complete upon His return. These appointed times are not exclusively Jewish; they are divine markers meant for all who follow YHWH, offering us a rhythm of worship distinct from the secular calendar.

The Significance of Each Season: Each moed, from Passover to Sukkot, holds deep Messianic significance, pointing both to the first coming of Yeshua and His glorious return. These times are designed to draw us closer to God, enriching our understanding and appreciation of His sovereign plan.

  • Passover (Pesach): Celebrates Yeshua’s atoning death
  • Feast of Weeks (Shavuot): Commemorates the giving of the Torah and the Holy Spirit
  • Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah): Marks a time of reflection and renewal
  • Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur): A solemn day of atonement and reconciliation
  • Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot): Rejoices in God’s provision and foreshadows the coming Kingdom

Practical Steps to Celebrate: While the absence of the temple and priesthood changes how we can observe these feasts, their spiritual essence remains intact. Start by learning the historical and prophetic nuances of these days. Engage with them through prayer, scripture reading, and community fellowship.

Resources to Explore:

Call to Action: As we approach Yom Teruah and the rest of the fall appointed times, I encourage you to join me and countless others in rediscovering these divine appointments. Whether through online resources, community worship, or personal study, let’s embrace these celebrations as opportunities to grow closer to YHWH and each other.

Closing Prayer: Father, thank You for the beauty and depth of Your appointed times. As we learn and grow in understanding of these holy days, draw us nearer to Your heart and deeper into the rhythms of Your grace. Help us to celebrate Your moedim with joy and reverence, using these times to teach our families and strengthen our communities. In the name of Yeshua, 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.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Holy / Set Apart, Is the Old Testament Relevant Today?, Traditions / Holidays

The Call of the Shofar: Rediscovering Yom Teruah

Have you ever considered that God’s calendar holds appointments most of us have never kept?

Growing up in a Christian household in the United States, the biblical holy days Yahweh established for His people were largely absent from our teachings. As Christians, we often overlook Old Testament instructions, deeming them outdated. Yet, these appointed times are not obsolete; they hold deep significance and can bring us closer to God.

Discovering Yom Teruah
Yom Teruah, often known as Rosh Hashanah in modern times, marks the beginning of the civil year on the Hebrew calendar. This day of shouting and blasting of trumpets is more than a cultural celebration; it’s a spiritual marker designed by God as outlined in Leviticus 23:23–32. Scripture gives us only a few direct instructions for Yom Teruah, inviting us to explore its meaning through the rest of the Word and in tradition.

Why It Matters Today

  1. A Call to Awareness: Yom Teruah serves as a spiritual alarm clock, awakening us to self-reflection and repentance in preparation for Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.

  2. Prophetic Undertones: For followers of Christ, the trumpets symbolize not only historical observance but also the anticipation of Christ’s return. The blasts are a reminder to live in readiness, aligning our lives with God’s commandments.

  3. Symbolism of the Shofar: The shofar, or ram’s horn, has deep biblical roots. Its sound is a powerful call to action, a reminder to forsake sin and embrace God’s ways.

How to Begin Celebrating

  1. Begin with Scripture: Always measure traditions and interpretations against the Word of God.

  2. Join a Community: Participate in gatherings, whether online or in person, like those at JacobsTent.org, to experience communal worship and learning.

  3. Embrace Imperfection: God looks at the heart more than the checklist. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect at the start—choose a day to observe and refine your understanding each year. (Ecclesiastes 11:4)

Resources to Grow

Fellowship Opportunity
JacobsTent.org is a fellowship that meets in Tennessee and live streams events for the moedim and regular Sabbath services weekly. It is more than just a study—it invites you into genuine worship and community.

Conclusion
Yom Teruah is an invitation to reconnect with the roots of our faith, celebrating God’s sovereignty and our place in His plan. When you hear the sound of the shofar—or even imagine it—let it stir your heart to readiness. Begin observing Yom Teruah this year and allow God to awaken your spirit.

Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your appointed times that draw us closer to You. As we prepare to observe Yom Teruah, open our hearts to the lessons You have for us. Help us to hear Your call and respond with obedience and joy. May our observance be a testament to our desire to know You more and walk in Your ways. Amen.

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

John Golda

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Is the Old Testament Relevant Today?, Traditions / Holidays

Rediscovering Our Roots: Embracing the Hebrew Foundations of Our Faith

Have you ever wondered if the Old Testament is merely a collection of ancient stories with little relevance today? Think again. The roots of our Christian faith stretch deeply into these Hebrew scriptures, offering not just historical insights but a vibrant blueprint for our spiritual journey.

In many modern Christian teachings, there’s a prevailing notion that the Old Testament serves merely as a backdrop to the New Testament, with its commands and lessons largely obsolete in the light of Christ’s teachings. However, this perspective not only neglects the depth of our faith’s foundations but also overlooks the enduring relevance of the Old Testament. Understanding the Hebrew roots of Christianity is crucial for a comprehensive grasp of the Bible and God’s eternal plan.

The Relevance of All Scripture: The Apostle Paul underscores the importance of all Scripture in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, reminding us that every word of the Bible, including the Old Testament, is inspired by God and useful for teaching, correction, and training in righteousness. This directive sets a clear mandate for Christians to delve into the Old Testament with the aim of applying its timeless truths to our lives.

2 Timothy 3:16-17

16All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.

Yeshua’s Adherence to the Law: Yeshua (Jesus) himself lived in accordance with the laws and traditions outlined in the Old Testament. His life and actions were in perfect harmony with the Scriptures, which he came not to abolish but to fulfill (Matthew 5:17). By studying how Yeshua observed these laws, we gain invaluable insights into how they apply to us today.

Misconceptions About ‘Jewish Traditions’: It’s vital to distinguish between cultural traditions and the commandments given by God to the Israelites. While some may dismiss the Old Testament practices as merely ‘Jewish ways,’ we must recognize that these were, in fact, God’s ways to guide and instruct His people. The moral and ethical teachings of the Old Testament are not obsolete; they carry profound implications for believers today.

Fulfillment, Not Replacement: Understanding which aspects of the Old Testament law were fulfilled through Christ’s sacrifice is key. This discernment allows us to appreciate the sacrificial system’s fulfillment in Yeshua’s ultimate sacrifice while still adhering to the moral and ethical codes that govern Christian conduct.

Call to Action:

  1. Study Diligently: Commit to a structured study of the Old Testament to uncover the richness of the Hebrew roots of Christianity.
  2. Reflect on Christ’s Example: Regularly reflect on how Christ fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies and laws, and seek to emulate His obedience.
  3. Challenge Misconceptions: Engage in discussions within your community to correct common misconceptions about the Old Testament’s relevance.
  4. Integrate Teachings: Actively integrate the ethical and moral teachings of the Old Testament into your daily life as a follower of Christ.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the entirety of Your Word, from Genesis to Revelation. Help us to understand and appreciate the foundations of our faith laid in the Old Testament. Guide us in applying these eternal truths to our lives, just as Yeshua demonstrated during His time on earth. Give us the wisdom to discern what is cultural and what is eternally mandated by You. May our journey through Scripture deepen our faith and broaden our understanding of Your kingdom. Amen.

I am including some links to resources to help you Study Hebrew Roots of Christianity.

  • 119ministries.com (also TestEverything.net) challenges and helps us test common teaching or practices today against God’s word. We are to test everything and hold onto only what is good
  • Shoreshim Ministries, at BillCloud.com, re-introduces Christians to the Jewish Y’shua in order to educate believers in the Hebraic roots of their faith. This in turn helps disciples to understand and follow Messiah more fully in their lives.
  • Beth Immanuel Sabbath Fellowship, at BethImmanuel.org, is a family-based Messianic Jewish community for people of all nations. Teaching and Bible study is at the center of what they do. They emphasize teaching and study from a Messianic Jewish perspective, revealing the Jewish Roots of Christianity, and encountering the Jewish Jesus.
  • First Fruits of Zion, at ffoz.org, specializes in the study and teaching of Scripture from its historical, linguistic, and cultural context. They present a Messianic Jewish reading of the Bible and early Jewish-Christianity.
  • Foundations in Torah, at FoundationsInTorah.com, focuses on connecting the gospels and epistles of the New Testament with their foundations in the Old Testament for a better understanding of context.
  • Hebraic Roots Network, at HebraicRootsNetwork.com, is a consortium of like-minded ministries dedicated to bringing solid Biblical teaching to the world. They present the Scriptures from a Hebrew perspective allowing the viewer to gain a deeper understanding through applied context.
  • Hebrew For Christians, at Hebrew4Christians.com, helps us study and deepen our faith by connecting with the Hebrew roots of God’s relationship with His people.
  • MTOI.org Messianic Torah Observant Israel. We are dedicated to serving YHWH as He brings the Body of Messiah together worldwide. We pray that this website becomes a valuable resource for you to learn, grow, and fellowship with other like-minded believers from around the world who desire to connect with you and help you feel connected.
  • RenewedMoon.com Latest reports and tools for sighting crescent (renewed) moons throughout the world and within Israel for the purposes of observing a Biblical calendar.
  • RestoringTheWay.org It is the focus of this ministry to restore what we believe has been something lost over the past 2,000 years or so and that is the Hebrew or Hebraic roots of the Christian faith.

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

John Golda

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

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Purposeful / Intentional, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God, Submitted / Servant, Traditions / Holidays

Dying to Live (John 12:20-26)

The path to fruitfulness always leads through surrender.

Key Verse:
“Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” —John 12:24 NASB

Background Context:
As the Passover crowd grows, some Greeks—Gentile seekers of truth—approach Philip with a simple request: “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Their desire marks a pivotal moment in Jesus’ ministry, signaling that His mission was expanding beyond Israel. Instead of directly responding to the Greeks, Jesus speaks to a deeper reality: the time for His glorification—through death—has come. Through the image of a grain of wheat, He teaches His disciples that real life and eternal impact come not through self-preservation, but through surrender.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 12:20-26

Greeks Seek Jesus

     20Now there were some Greeks among those who were going up to worship at the feast; 21these then came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and began to ask him, saying, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” 22Philip came and told Andrew; Andrew and Philip came and told Jesus. 23And Jesus answered them, saying, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. 24“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. 25“He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal. 26“If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.

Reflection on John 12:20–26:
The Greeks’ request, “We wish to see Jesus,” is one of the most beautiful in the Gospel. And in response, Jesus doesn’t give them a miracle or a meeting—He gives a message: The way to see Me is through the cross.

Jesus reveals a kingdom paradox: to bear fruit, the seed must die. In the same way, His death would produce life—not just for Israel, but for all who would believe, including the Greeks who sought Him. His glorification would not come through applause, but through sacrifice.

Then He invites us into that same path: “He who loves his life loses it… he who hates his life in this world will keep it…” This isn’t a call to self-hatred—it’s a call to hold loosely the comforts and values of this world in favor of eternal purpose.

To serve Him is to follow Him—and that path leads through surrender, humility, and obedience, even when it’s costly. But the reward? “Where I am, there My servant will be also… the Father will honor him.”

Application:
What part of your life is God asking you to surrender so it can bear fruit? Are you holding tightly to something that, if laid down, could become a vessel of eternal impact?

Following Jesus means dying to self daily—not to lose our identity, but to find it fully in Him. When we die to pride, comfort, control, or fear, we make room for resurrection life to grow in and through us.

Let your prayer echo the Greeks: “We wish to see Jesus.” And be ready to see Him most clearly in the place of surrendered obedience.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, I want to see You—and to follow You. Help me to lay down what I’ve been clinging to so that my life may bear fruit for Your kingdom. Teach me to die to self, not with fear, but with faith. I trust that where You are, I will be also. 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.

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God, Protector / Deliverer, Repenting from Sin, Submitted / Servant, Traditions / Holidays

True Freedom: Celebrating Independence Day with a Reflection on Freedom in Christ

As the United States celebrates Independence Day, we are reminded of the historic struggle for freedom from tyranny and the birth of a nation built on the ideals of liberty.

This July 4th, while enjoying the fireworks and festivities, let us also delve deeper into a more profound freedom—the spiritual liberty granted to us through Christ, which liberates us from the bondage of sin and empowers us to serve God wholeheartedly.

Historical and Spiritual Freedom: The celebration of Independence Day is not just about commemorating the past; it’s about appreciating the freedoms we enjoy today. However, it’s also an opportunity to reflect on the spiritual freedom we have in Christ, as taught in the Scriptures. This freedom does not absolve us from responsibility but calls us to live according to God’s will, under His guidance and laws.

Freedom in Christ – Not a License to Sin: The Apostle Paul discusses this concept extensively:

  • Romans 8:1-4 explains that while we are free from the “law of sin and death” thanks to Christ, this freedom is not an excuse to ignore God’s commandments. Rather, it empowers us to live righteously, aligned with the Spirit rather than the flesh.

Romans 8:1-4

1Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. 3For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, 4so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

The Misconception of Lawlessness: It’s crucial to understand that Christ’s fulfillment of the Law does not equate to its nullification. Christ himself adhered to these laws, setting an example for us to follow, not to discard. Jesus critiqued not the law itself but the Pharisees’ and Sadducees’ legalistic and burdensome interpretations that overshadowed its true purpose.

The Role of God’s Law: The psalmist in Psalm 119 expresses a deep love for God’s law, recognizing it as a source of wisdom, joy, and peace. These statutes are described not as burdens but as blessings that guide us toward righteousness and closer communion with God.

Psalm 119 (excerpts)

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

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

—

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

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

—

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

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

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

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

—

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

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

Call to Action:

  1. Reflect on True Freedom: Spend time this Independence Day reflecting on the freedom you have in Christ. Consider how this spiritual liberty influences your daily decisions and relationships.
  2. Study and Share: Dive deeper into the scriptures that discuss God’s laws and freedom in Christ. Share these insights with friends and family, perhaps during your Independence Day celebrations.
  3. Live Responsibly: Embrace the responsibility that comes with freedom. Make choices that reflect your commitment to God’s laws and the example set by Christ.
  4. Engage in Prayer and Fellowship: Use this day as an opportunity to pray for our nation and its leaders, that they may govern wisely and justly, honoring the freedoms we hold dear.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of freedom, both national and spiritual, through Christ our Savior. As we celebrate this Independence Day, let us remember the sacrifices made for our freedoms and the ultimate sacrifice Christ made to free us from sin. Help us to live lives worthy of this gift, guided by Your Spirit and committed to Your principles. Strengthen us to be bearers of Your light and truth in a world that deeply needs it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Traditions / Holidays

The Light That Breaks the Darkness (John 8:12-30)

Jesus didn’t come just to reveal truth—He is the Truth and the Light that leads us out of sin and into life.

Key Verse:
“I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” —John 8:12 (NASB)

Background Context:
In John 8:12–30, Jesus continues teaching in the temple during the Feast of Tabernacles—a time when large lampstands lit the temple courtyard, symbolizing God’s presence guiding Israel in the wilderness. Against this backdrop, Jesus declares, “I am the Light of the world.” His words challenge both the traditions and the hardened hearts of the religious leaders who were more concerned with appearances than truth.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 8:12-30

Jesus Is the Light of the World 12Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” 13So the Pharisees said to Him, “You are testifying about Yourself; Your testimony is not true.” 14Jesus answered and said to them, “Even if I testify about Myself, My testimony is true, for I know where I came from and where I am going; but you do not know where I come from or where I am going. 15“You judge according to the flesh; I am not judging anyone. 16“But even if I do judge, My judgment is true; for I am not alone in it, but I and the Father who sent Me. 17“Even in your law it has been written that the testimony of two men is true. 18“I am He who testifies about Myself, and the Father who sent Me testifies about Me.” 19So they were saying to Him, “Where is Your Father?” Jesus answered, “You know neither Me nor My Father; if you knew Me, you would know My Father also.” 20These words He spoke in the treasury, as He taught in the temple; and no one seized Him, because His hour had not yet come.

      21Then He said again to them, “I go away, and you will seek Me, and will die in your sin; where I am going, you cannot come.” 22So the Jews were saying, “Surely He will not kill Himself, will He, since He says, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come’?” 23And He was saying to them, “You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world. 24“Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” 25So they were saying to Him, “Who are You?” Jesus said to them, “What have I been saying to you from the beginning? 26“I have many things to speak and to judge concerning you, but He who sent Me is true; and the things which I heard from Him, these I speak to the world.” 27They did not realize that He had been speaking to them about the Father. 28So Jesus said, “When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He, and I do nothing on My own initiative, but I speak these things as the Father taught Me. 29“And He who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to Him.” 30As He spoke these things, many came to believe in Him.

Reflection on John 8:12–30:
Jesus presents a clear and sobering choice: follow Him—the Light—or remain in darkness and die in sin. The Pharisees scoffed at His testimony, clinging to their man-made rules and earthly judgment. But Jesus makes it plain: He doesn’t speak on His own authority but on behalf of the Father, and His words carry eternal weight.

He doesn’t just invite belief—He warns of the consequences of unbelief. “Unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” That statement isn’t harsh—it’s merciful. It’s a plea for repentance and recognition. Those who reject Jesus remain separated from God, walking blind in spiritual darkness.

But those who hear and believe are promised something radical: the Light of life. This light isn’t just for knowledge—it brings transformation, guidance, hope, and intimacy with God. It means we are no longer slaves to sin or bound by guilt. We walk forward as children of the Light.

Application:
Are you walking in the light, or are there places in your life where you’re still hiding in darkness? Surrender those areas to Jesus. Let His truth illuminate your heart, guide your steps, and free you from the burden of sin.

Closing Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Light of the world. Shine into every shadowed part of my heart and lead me fully into Your truth. Help me to walk in the light, not only hearing Your words but obeying them. May my life reflect Your presence and draw others from darkness into Your marvelous light. Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Father / Yahweh, Parenting, Traditions / Holidays

Yahweh Is A Good Father: Let Us Honor Him

As we celebrate Father’s Day, it is good to also focus on our Creator and Father in addition to celebrating good earthy fathers. Take time to prayerfully and thoughtfully reflect on who He is and what He has already done for You.

Respect and honor who God is. Take a few moments and be still before God. Contemplate the character of God:

  • The Great I Am
  • Creator of All
  • All Knowing (omniscient)
  • All Powerful (omnipotent)
  • Present In All Places at All Times (omnipresent)
  • Unchanging (immutable)
  • Eternal (without beginning or end)
  • Incapable of Making a Mistake (flawless)
  • Infinite (without limit or boundaries)
  • Holy (worthy of devotion as one perfect in goodness)
  • Just (behaving according to what is morally right and fair)
  • The Beginning and the End (Alpha and Omega)

In Ephesians  1:18-19 Paul prays “…that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, 19and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.”

Reflect on the greatness of God’s power toward you as God the Father. He is Father, Provider, Shelter, and Protector.

Honor and glorify His name. God’s name is to be separated from the world. To do this, we must separate from the world and focus on God. Focus on the Biblical names for God.

Focus on God’s character, praise Him and be thankful. His character should be reflected in our character.

  • Compassionate
  • Gracious
  • Humble
  • Pure (in body and mind)
  • Merciful
  • Giving (in time and resources)
  • Slow to anger / Patient
  • Filled with love
  • Truthful
  • Forgiving
  • Kind
  • Faithful
  • Wise
  • Servant’s heart
  • Disciplined (self-control)
  • Joyful
  • Holy (set apart from sin; set apart for God’s purpose)
  • Just (e.g. justice)

Consider picking one or more of God’s characteristics, starting with the one you understand the least, and study its meaning including study of application in scriptures. This activity will renew your mind in that area and, in turn, transform your character to be more like God and our Lord Jesus Christ. After completing this, consider doing for the other character traits over time, perhaps one a week.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, thank You for being such a wonderful Father. Thank You for caring for me even when I may not understand why I experience certain things that may be difficult. You are worthy of praise. You are the model for the father I should strive to be. Please help me (and/or pray for fathers in your life here) to become more like 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.

Children, Father / Yahweh, Parenting, Traditions / Holidays

Guided by YHWH: Embodying the Qualities of a Good Father

Good fathers should pursue after Christ and be spiritual leaders in their family. They should put YHWH first, their wife next and then the children in their priority list and then actually live their lives according to that standard. YHWH has said much about what it means to be a good father. It need not be a mystery.

Ephesians 6:4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Psalm 103:13 Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.

Colossians 3:21 Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so that they will not lose heart.

Psalm 127:3-5 Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one’s youth. How blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them; they will not be ashamed when they speak with their enemies in the gate.

Luke 11:11-12 “Now suppose one of you fathers is asked by his son for a fish; he will not give him a snake instead of a fish, will he? “Or if he is asked for an egg, he will not give him a scorpion, will he?

Joshua 24:14-15 “Now, therefore, fear the LORD and serve Him in sincerity and truth; and put away the gods which your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. 15“If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”

Perhaps some scripture does not explicitly call out “fathers”, but as in Joshua 24:14-15… he demonstrates the role of a good father as a strong leader for his family committed to serving YHWH even if others refuse to do so. Psalm 127:3-5 shows a good father feels blessed to have received the gift of children.

There are many more such scriptures. I encourage you to do an internet search for “Bible scriptures about good fathers” and invest time to dive deeper. In fact, YHWH gives us the metaphor to think of Him like a Father and He is perfect. Thus we can learn a lot about being a good father from studying how He relates to His people.

Good fathers are not perfect… there is only one perfect Father. On behalf of all those fathers out there who are trying to lead, protect and provide for their families, we appreciate your grace and forgiveness when we get it wrong, and we welcome your prayers and encouragement on our behalf so we may become better and better at what YHWH has called us to be… fathers.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, thank You for the righteous fathers that are trying to lead their families in Your ways. Please help and encourage fathers to lead and love their families actively. Help fathers reflect Your character traits and be a light to others that do not know You and  godly example to their children. 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.

Seeking God, Teachable, Traditions / Holidays

Living Water and Divided Hearts (John 7:37-53)

Truth often reveals what’s in the heart—some thirst and receive, while others harden and divide.

Key Verse:
“Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, ‘If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, “From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.”’” —John 7:37–38 (NASB)

Background Context:
The Feast of Booths (Sukkot) was drawing to a close, and Jesus made a bold public declaration in the temple—an invitation to spiritual renewal through Him. He promised the Holy Spirit to those who believed, symbolized as “living water” flowing from within. This moment stirred a sharp reaction. Some believed He was the Christ, others doubted based on their limited understanding of Scripture and His background. Meanwhile, the temple guards were so struck by His words that they refused to arrest Him. Nicodemus, who had once come to Jesus by night, stood up for due process. Still, the religious leaders mocked and dismissed the idea that the Christ could come from Galilee.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 7:37-53

   37Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. 38“He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’” 39But this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive; for the Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

Division of People over Jesus

      40Some of the people therefore, when they heard these words, were saying, “This certainly is the Prophet.” 41Others were saying, “This is the Christ.” Still others were saying, “Surely the Christ is not going to come from Galilee, is He? 42“Has not the Scripture said that the Christ comes from the descendants of David, and from Bethlehem, the village where David was?” 43So a division occurred in the crowd because of Him. 44Some of them wanted to seize Him, but no one laid hands on Him.

      45The officers then came to the chief priests and Pharisees, and they said to them, “Why did you not bring Him?” 46The officers answered, “Never has a man spoken the way this man speaks.” 47The Pharisees then answered them, “You have not also been led astray, have you? 48“No one of the rulers or Pharisees has believed in Him, has he? 49“But this crowd which does not know the Law is accursed.” 50Nicodemus (he who came to Him before, being one of them) said to them, 51“Our Law does not judge a man unless it first hears from him and knows what he is doing, does it?” 52They answered him, “You are not also from Galilee, are you? Search, and see that no prophet arises out of Galilee.” 53[Everyone went to his home.

Reflection on John 7:37–53:
Jesus’ invitation is personal and powerful—“If anyone is thirsty…” This call was not to the self-righteous or the indifferent, but to those who recognized a need. Thirst symbolizes longing, emptiness, and the need for something more than what the world offers. In promising the Spirit, Jesus revealed the deeper work He came to accomplish—one that would dwell within believers and overflow to others.

But not all responded with belief. Confusion, assumptions, and religious pride clouded the minds of many. Some rejected Jesus because they misunderstood His origin, even though He fulfilled prophecy. Others, like the officers and Nicodemus, began to recognize something different about Him.

We see a striking contrast between spiritual thirst and spiritual arrogance. The guards were moved by His words. Nicodemus appealed to justice. But the Pharisees? They ridiculed, dismissed, and hardened their hearts, blinded by their own knowledge and status.

Even today, Jesus still divides. Those who come to Him in humility find life. Those who cling to their own ways miss the very One they claim to await.

Application:
Are you thirsty today? Jesus invites you not to strive harder, but to come and drink. Let Him fill you with the Spirit. Reflect on whether your heart is tender and teachable like Nicodemus or resistant like the Pharisees.

Also, beware of assumptions. The people thought they understood prophecy, but they were wrong about Jesus’ birthplace. Study God’s Word carefully and humbly to avoid missing His truth.

And finally—be bold. Like Nicodemus, speak up when truth is being twisted or ignored. One voice, even in a crowd of critics, can make a difference.

Closing Prayer:
Yeshua, thank You for inviting me to come and drink. I confess that I am thirsty—for truth, for purpose, for You. Fill me with Your Spirit and let Your living water flow through my life. Keep my heart soft and open, even when others reject You. Help me to stand for truth with boldness and grace. Amen.

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

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

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Traditions / Holidays

Living Water for the Thirsty (John 7:1-39)

We often seek comfort, approval, or wisdom from the world—but true refreshment and life come only from the One who gives living water.

Key Verse:
“Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, ‘If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. The one who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, “From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.”’” —John 7:37–38 (NASB)

Background Context:
John 7 opens with tension. The Jewish leaders are seeking to kill Jesus, and His own brothers still don’t believe in Him. He delays going to the Feast of Booths (Sukkot), then arrives privately. During the feast, He teaches with authority, stunning the crowd. He reveals that His teaching is not His own, but from the One who sent Him. Midway through, debate surrounds Him—some say He is good; others think He deceives. Finally, on the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus cries out an invitation for all who are thirsty to come to Him. John notes this was in reference to the Holy Spirit, who would be given after Jesus was glorified.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 7:1-39

Jesus Teaches at the Feast

     1After these things Jesus was walking in Galilee, for He was unwilling to walk in Judea because the Jews were seeking to kill Him. 2Now the feast of the Jews, the Feast of Booths, was near. 3Therefore His brothers said to Him, “Leave here and go into Judea, so that Your disciples also may see Your works which You are doing. 4“For no one does anything in secret when he himself seeks to be known publicly. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world.” 5For not even His brothers were believing in Him. 6So Jesus said to them, “My time is not yet here, but your time is always opportune. 7“The world cannot hate you, but it hates Me because I testify of it, that its deeds are evil. 8“Go up to the feast yourselves; I do not go up to this feast because My time has not yet fully come.” 9Having said these things to them, He stayed in Galilee.

      10But when His brothers had gone up to the feast, then He Himself also went up, not publicly, but as if, in secret. 11So the Jews were seeking Him at the feast and were saying, “Where is He?” 12There was much grumbling among the crowds concerning Him; some were saying, “He is a good man”; others were saying, “No, on the contrary, He leads the people astray.” 13Yet no one was speaking openly of Him for fear of the Jews.

      14But when it was now the midst of the feast Jesus went up into the temple, and began to teach. 15The Jews then were astonished, saying, “How has this man become learned, having never been educated?” 16So Jesus answered them and said, “My teaching is not Mine, but His who sent Me. 17“If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself. 18“He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who is seeking the glory of the One who sent Him, He is true, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.

      19“Did not Moses give you the Law, and yet none of you carries out the Law? Why do you seek to kill Me?” 20The crowd answered, “You have a demon! Who seeks to kill You?” 21Jesus answered them, “I did one deed, and you all marvel. 22“For this reason Moses has given you circumcision (not because it is from Moses, but from the fathers), and on the Sabbath you circumcise a man. 23“If a man receives circumcision on the Sabbath so that the Law of Moses will not be broken, are you angry with Me because I made an entire man well on the Sabbath? 24“Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”

      25So some of the people of Jerusalem were saying, “Is this not the man whom they are seeking to kill? 26“Look, He is speaking publicly, and they are saying nothing to Him. The rulers do not really know that this is the Christ, do they? 27“However, we know where this man is from; but whenever the Christ may come, no one knows where He is from.” 28Then Jesus cried out in the temple, teaching and saying, “You both know Me and know where I am from; and I have not come of Myself, but He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know. 29“I know Him, because I am from Him, and He sent Me.” 30So they were seeking to seize Him; and no man laid his hand on Him, because His hour had not yet come. 31But many of the crowd believed in Him; and they were saying, “When the Christ comes, He will not perform more signs than those which this man has, will He?”

      32The Pharisees heard the crowd muttering these things about Him, and the chief priests and the Pharisees sent officers to seize Him. 33Therefore Jesus said, “For a little while longer I am with you, then I go to Him who sent Me. 34“You will seek Me, and will not find Me; and where I am, you cannot come.” 35The Jews then said to one another, “Where does this man intend to go that we will not find Him? He is not intending to go to the Dispersion among the Greeks, and teach the Greeks, is He? 36“What is this statement that He said, ‘You will seek Me, and will not find Me; and where I am, you cannot come’?”

      37Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. 38“He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’” 39But this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive; for the Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

Reflection on John 7:1–39:
This chapter offers a window into both growing opposition and powerful revelation. While some sought to kill Jesus, and even His brothers doubted Him, He still chose to go to the feast—God’s appointed time—to teach and proclaim truth. This shows us the boldness of Messiah and the value He placed on keeping the moedim (God’s festivals), even in times of danger.

His invitation at Sukkot carries deep meaning. Each day during this feast, priests would pour water at the altar, praying for rain and spiritual renewal. On the final day, Jesus stood up and made a dramatic proclamation: “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink.” In doing so, He revealed that He is the source of spiritual life and renewal.

He did not promise material gain or worldly comfort. He promised rivers of living water flowing from within those who believe—pointing to the indwelling Holy Spirit.

This offer is not for the self-satisfied but for the thirsty. It’s not for the skeptical observer but for those who will come, believe, and drink deeply of Him.

Application:
Are you spiritually thirsty? Come to Yeshua. Not once, but daily. Believe in Him not only as a historical figure but as your source of life. Yield yourself to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to overflow in and through you.

Consider, too, the example Jesus set in honoring the Feast of Booths. Are there biblical patterns of worship you’ve overlooked? Might God be inviting you to deeper understanding and obedience through His appointed times?

Finally, don’t be surprised if following Jesus means others misunderstand or oppose you. Walk in truth anyway. Teach boldly. Love deeply. And stay thirsty for Him.

Closing Prayer:
Yeshua, I am thirsty for what only You can give. Fill me with Your living water. Help me to walk in Your Spirit and to live boldly for You, even when others misunderstand. Teach me to honor what You honor and to follow where You lead. Let Your life flow through me like a river. 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.