Happy Reformation Day! How fitting that Psalm 43 speaks to us about God's light and truth. Thank God today that God used Martin Luther to mightily proclaim the Biblical teaching that we are saved by grace alone through faith alone as revealed in Scripture alone.
Read Psalm 43
We pray in the psalm today, "Send out your light and your truth; let them lead me." We pray these words, and I think it is impossible not to remember that Jesus said, "I AM the Light of the world." Also, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life."
So when we pray for Light and Truth, we pray for none other than the Savior of the world, the Son of God, to speak to us and show us the way. In fact, his Word, which we correctly call Holy Scripture is also often called the light and the truth. What a privilege it is, therefore, to be able to hear it, read it, study, learn, memorize it, and let it change our lives. Indeed we are changed from believing a lie (from the father of lies the Devil) to believing the Truth. We are changed from death to Life. What a most precious gift we are given.
Why, therefore, are we downcast? Why is our soul in turmoil? Hope in God. He has proven that he is trustworthy. He has shown this clearly to us in our lifetime. He shows it clearly to Joseph as well:
Read Genesis 46
Ask Yourself:
What are some lying voices in my life that are claiming to be the truth?
Who is giving terrible direction in my life claiming to be our light and direction?
With what particular concern are you especially needing Christ's guidance today?
Pray:
You are the truth; Your Word alone
True wisdom can impart;
You only can inform the mind
And purify the heart.
(LSB 526:2)
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
God Sent Me Here
As the deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God - Psalm 42:1
O Lord, I am thirsty. Refresh me and enliven me through your Word. See me in my dreadful condition, in my sin, my hurt, my suffering. Forgive me. Save me from my enemies. Let your Word dwell in me to fill me up, to lift me from my downcast state, and to ignite me again in praise and thanksgiving. Let your Holy Spirit speak to me today as I read your Word. Amen.
Read Psalm 42
"The psalmist experiences despair at the seeming victory of the godless and his separation from God's merciful presence at the temple. We, too, should desire God's presence, hear His Word in public worship, and receive the salvation that He gives in the Word. In the midst of our suffering and troubles, and against all appearances to the contrary, our Lord Jesus is our Savior and dwells among us in preaching and Communion to save us." (TLSB, p. 887).
Read Genesis 45
Yesterday I had read ahead, and then actually forgot where Genesis 44 stopped. I guess the story was so captivating I just kept reading! I spoke yesterday of the reconciliation. It didn't happen actually until our reading today in Genesis 45.
So, since I have already spoken on reconciliation, let's focus on something different. Verse 8: "So it was not you who sent me here, but God."
Maybe this is why Joseph can forgive his brothers who were awful to him. He can forgive because he can see the big picture. The big picture is that God rules over all things, especially over his people. Joseph recognizes that he is safe in God's hands. Nothing happens to him unless God allows it.
That may be difficult for us to swallow at times when we are really enduring a difficult time. But even if others mistreat us, God is Lord over all, and has our best interests in mind. It doesn't mean that everything that happens is good, but it does mean that God can work good from all things for the good of those who love him.
And in time the brothers came to understand this (though they were very nervous for a while when their father died, fearful of Joseph's wrath, as we will see). In time also Jacob/Israel came to understand this too. Though his heart was "numb" at first, though he was too shocked to believe it, eventually Jacob was determined to go see Joseph.
God has a plan. Though we suffer many things in this life, at the end we will be able to paraphrase Joseph and say, "God has been with me all the way. He has sent me where he willed me to be. He has carried me to this point, and he will carry me through death into everlasting life, through Jesus Christ, my Lord."
Thanks be to God.
Ask Yourself:
Do I feel parched, thirsty, craving spiritual renewal?
Where do I find the spiritual water to quench my thirst? (See John 4:13-14).
Do I struggle to admit that God allows difficult situations into our lives? How do I cope with the suffering?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today, that Joseph's virtues would be your own: humility, wisdom, forgiveness, care for family. Pray that God would strengthen you also to carry your cross and follow Jesus.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
O Lord, I am thirsty. Refresh me and enliven me through your Word. See me in my dreadful condition, in my sin, my hurt, my suffering. Forgive me. Save me from my enemies. Let your Word dwell in me to fill me up, to lift me from my downcast state, and to ignite me again in praise and thanksgiving. Let your Holy Spirit speak to me today as I read your Word. Amen.
Read Psalm 42
"The psalmist experiences despair at the seeming victory of the godless and his separation from God's merciful presence at the temple. We, too, should desire God's presence, hear His Word in public worship, and receive the salvation that He gives in the Word. In the midst of our suffering and troubles, and against all appearances to the contrary, our Lord Jesus is our Savior and dwells among us in preaching and Communion to save us." (TLSB, p. 887).
Read Genesis 45
Yesterday I had read ahead, and then actually forgot where Genesis 44 stopped. I guess the story was so captivating I just kept reading! I spoke yesterday of the reconciliation. It didn't happen actually until our reading today in Genesis 45.
So, since I have already spoken on reconciliation, let's focus on something different. Verse 8: "So it was not you who sent me here, but God."
Maybe this is why Joseph can forgive his brothers who were awful to him. He can forgive because he can see the big picture. The big picture is that God rules over all things, especially over his people. Joseph recognizes that he is safe in God's hands. Nothing happens to him unless God allows it.
That may be difficult for us to swallow at times when we are really enduring a difficult time. But even if others mistreat us, God is Lord over all, and has our best interests in mind. It doesn't mean that everything that happens is good, but it does mean that God can work good from all things for the good of those who love him.
And in time the brothers came to understand this (though they were very nervous for a while when their father died, fearful of Joseph's wrath, as we will see). In time also Jacob/Israel came to understand this too. Though his heart was "numb" at first, though he was too shocked to believe it, eventually Jacob was determined to go see Joseph.
God has a plan. Though we suffer many things in this life, at the end we will be able to paraphrase Joseph and say, "God has been with me all the way. He has sent me where he willed me to be. He has carried me to this point, and he will carry me through death into everlasting life, through Jesus Christ, my Lord."
Thanks be to God.
Ask Yourself:
Do I feel parched, thirsty, craving spiritual renewal?
Where do I find the spiritual water to quench my thirst? (See John 4:13-14).
Do I struggle to admit that God allows difficult situations into our lives? How do I cope with the suffering?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today, that Joseph's virtues would be your own: humility, wisdom, forgiveness, care for family. Pray that God would strengthen you also to carry your cross and follow Jesus.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Repentance and Reconciliation
Almighty God, send Your Holy Spirit into our hearts that He may rule and direct us according to Your will, comfort us in all our temptations and afflictions, defend us from all error, and lead us into all truth that we, being steadfast in faith, may increase in all good works and in the end obtain everlasting life; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Read Psalm 41
David is sick (v. 1-4) and he is betrayed (v. 5-13). Why is David allowed to suffer so? God doesn't give us the answer. But in David, he does give us an example of what to do when we are suffering. We are to confess our sin, which David does in v. 4, and then we trust God, even as David could proclaim "You have upheld me" (v. 12).
David suffers and is betrayed. In this way he is a type of Christ. For who has suffered more and has had a more bitter betrayal than Jesus?
"Jesus quotes v. 9 in John 13:18, referring to Judas' imminent betrayal. The psalm is messianic, because it foreshadows in the person of David our Lord's ministry, betrayal, crucifixion, and resurrection. As great David's great Son, Jesus would experience betrayal like David did. Judas sat with Jesus at the Last Supper and even received bread from Jesus' hand. Could there be a more bitter betrayal?" (TLSB, p. 886).
Read Genesis 44
Joseph's final test of the brothers is too much for them. When Benjamin is found with the "stolen" cup they all tear their clothes. This was an outward sign of an inner reality. Their hearts were stricken with grief (as Joel encourages repentance, saying, "Rend your hearts, not your garments" in Joel 2:13).
Their sorrow and contrition is genuine. They are not content to let Benjamin become a servant. If that is unavoidable, then they will all stay and be servants with them. Judah, now the spokesman and leader of the brothers petitions Joseph, begging and pleading and explaining to him. Judah becomes a mediator between the lord and judge Joseph and the one accused.
Should we be surprised? Judah's descendant, Jesus, would be a greater mediator between a fiercer Judge (the Father) and a worse sinner, for we are not falsely accused.
In the end, the brothers pass the test, and Joseph breaks down with loud weeping. Even with the Egyptians in another room they hear the cathartic outburst of emotion from Joseph. His brothers then also weep.
So too should we long for such reconciliation! What a blessing for someone to repent and say "I am sorry!" What a blessing for another to say, "I forgive you. I love you." Though, sadly, this does not happen enough, it does happen by the grace of God. It can happen in your life too.
And how long did it take in Joseph's life? Well, he's been working for Pharaoh for 9 years now. How long was he in jail, and before that, working for Potiphar? This has been a long road.
If you are in the midst of that long road, and reconciliation with a mother, father, brother, sister, or friend seems a long way off, be encouraged by this story. Let it soften your heart to love the one who hurt you, and the one that you hurt. Be ready to apologize. Be ready to forgive. The love of Christ is in you. Rely on his strength, and he will help you. He has promised to be with you.
And remember, reconciliation between you and God seemed impossible. In fact, "with man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26). And Jesus made the impossible possible on the cross. If God can reconcile us to him, though we had rebelled and fallen far short of his glory, then God can certainly reconcile us to one another. Thanks be to God!
Ask Yourself:
To whom do I need to apologize? Am I ready to apologize? Who will strengthen me?
Whom do I need to forgive? Am I ready to forgive? Who will strengthen me?
Like King David, do I confess my sin and then rely on his strength daily?
Pray:
Jesus, You gave Yourself for us and made known the Father's loving heart. Turn us from sin, selfishness, and alienation to live for You, as you have died for us. Amen. (TLSB p. 85).
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 41
David is sick (v. 1-4) and he is betrayed (v. 5-13). Why is David allowed to suffer so? God doesn't give us the answer. But in David, he does give us an example of what to do when we are suffering. We are to confess our sin, which David does in v. 4, and then we trust God, even as David could proclaim "You have upheld me" (v. 12).
David suffers and is betrayed. In this way he is a type of Christ. For who has suffered more and has had a more bitter betrayal than Jesus?
"Jesus quotes v. 9 in John 13:18, referring to Judas' imminent betrayal. The psalm is messianic, because it foreshadows in the person of David our Lord's ministry, betrayal, crucifixion, and resurrection. As great David's great Son, Jesus would experience betrayal like David did. Judas sat with Jesus at the Last Supper and even received bread from Jesus' hand. Could there be a more bitter betrayal?" (TLSB, p. 886).
Read Genesis 44
Joseph's final test of the brothers is too much for them. When Benjamin is found with the "stolen" cup they all tear their clothes. This was an outward sign of an inner reality. Their hearts were stricken with grief (as Joel encourages repentance, saying, "Rend your hearts, not your garments" in Joel 2:13).
Their sorrow and contrition is genuine. They are not content to let Benjamin become a servant. If that is unavoidable, then they will all stay and be servants with them. Judah, now the spokesman and leader of the brothers petitions Joseph, begging and pleading and explaining to him. Judah becomes a mediator between the lord and judge Joseph and the one accused.
Should we be surprised? Judah's descendant, Jesus, would be a greater mediator between a fiercer Judge (the Father) and a worse sinner, for we are not falsely accused.
In the end, the brothers pass the test, and Joseph breaks down with loud weeping. Even with the Egyptians in another room they hear the cathartic outburst of emotion from Joseph. His brothers then also weep.
So too should we long for such reconciliation! What a blessing for someone to repent and say "I am sorry!" What a blessing for another to say, "I forgive you. I love you." Though, sadly, this does not happen enough, it does happen by the grace of God. It can happen in your life too.
And how long did it take in Joseph's life? Well, he's been working for Pharaoh for 9 years now. How long was he in jail, and before that, working for Potiphar? This has been a long road.
If you are in the midst of that long road, and reconciliation with a mother, father, brother, sister, or friend seems a long way off, be encouraged by this story. Let it soften your heart to love the one who hurt you, and the one that you hurt. Be ready to apologize. Be ready to forgive. The love of Christ is in you. Rely on his strength, and he will help you. He has promised to be with you.
And remember, reconciliation between you and God seemed impossible. In fact, "with man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26). And Jesus made the impossible possible on the cross. If God can reconcile us to him, though we had rebelled and fallen far short of his glory, then God can certainly reconcile us to one another. Thanks be to God!
Ask Yourself:
To whom do I need to apologize? Am I ready to apologize? Who will strengthen me?
Whom do I need to forgive? Am I ready to forgive? Who will strengthen me?
Like King David, do I confess my sin and then rely on his strength daily?
Pray:
Jesus, You gave Yourself for us and made known the Father's loving heart. Turn us from sin, selfishness, and alienation to live for You, as you have died for us. Amen. (TLSB p. 85).
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
May God Almighty Grant Mercy
Welcome to another day of God's mercies. May he bless our studies.
Read Psalm 40
Luther has some interesting comments about this psalm. He talks as if Christ himself is praying this psalm. The problem is, what does it mean, then, when Jesus prays, "my iniquities have overtaken me"? Well, we must remember that when Jesus prays for forgiveness, he is praying on behalf of all of us who have committed the sins. Jesus has taken those sins upon himself. Standing in the place of sinners, he cries out to his Father for help and rescue. This helps us to understand Luther's comments:
"The 40th psalm is a beautiful psalm of prayer in which Christ himself laments His sufferings and calls for rescue from death. It clearly prophesies that He alone does God's will and fulfills the Law, and that this is written about Him in the book of Moses...God alone does everything for us; nothing is done by our work or sacrifices. He therefore promises and establishes the New Testament in which the justification of the believers will be preached in the great congregation, that is, in the entire world, and not the justification by sacrifices or our works." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
Read Genesis 43
The themes from the last chapter carry over to this one. God is setting them up for reconciliation. We see Joseph unable to be harsh anymore. Though not revealing himself just yet, he cannot help but treat them warmly, inquire about their well being, and share a feast with them. What a forgiving brother!
I would guess that when Joseph focused on the goodness of God, His plan carried out, His strength that carried Joseph through it all, His unfailing faithfulness to help Joseph, it was impossible for him to bear a grudge.
Is God's grace that powerful in us? Do we recognize that God has a plan for us? Do we look back on our life and see him active through it all, carrying us along, helping us and strengthening us? Even if others have hurt us, if we look at all of God's goodness, we will be motivated to love and forgive. Just look at the love of Christ! - love that led him to suffer, bleed, and die that our sins and rebellion against God might be forgiven.
Jacob (Israel) sent his sons saying, "May God Almighty grant you mercy." We pray the same thing as we seek to live for Christ: May God Almighty grant us mercy! We have fallen short. May he forgive. We are weak. May he strengthen us. We are in need. May he help us and give us peace. Amen.
Pray:
We give thanks to You, Lord Jesus, for Your bitter suffering and painful death, whereby You purchased us from the pangs of eternal death. Thanks be to You that You have sent us the Word of Your salvation. Preserve it with us pure and unadulterated, and whenever we hear or read it, reveal Yourself to us as the Savior of our souls. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 40
Luther has some interesting comments about this psalm. He talks as if Christ himself is praying this psalm. The problem is, what does it mean, then, when Jesus prays, "my iniquities have overtaken me"? Well, we must remember that when Jesus prays for forgiveness, he is praying on behalf of all of us who have committed the sins. Jesus has taken those sins upon himself. Standing in the place of sinners, he cries out to his Father for help and rescue. This helps us to understand Luther's comments:
"The 40th psalm is a beautiful psalm of prayer in which Christ himself laments His sufferings and calls for rescue from death. It clearly prophesies that He alone does God's will and fulfills the Law, and that this is written about Him in the book of Moses...God alone does everything for us; nothing is done by our work or sacrifices. He therefore promises and establishes the New Testament in which the justification of the believers will be preached in the great congregation, that is, in the entire world, and not the justification by sacrifices or our works." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
Read Genesis 43
The themes from the last chapter carry over to this one. God is setting them up for reconciliation. We see Joseph unable to be harsh anymore. Though not revealing himself just yet, he cannot help but treat them warmly, inquire about their well being, and share a feast with them. What a forgiving brother!
I would guess that when Joseph focused on the goodness of God, His plan carried out, His strength that carried Joseph through it all, His unfailing faithfulness to help Joseph, it was impossible for him to bear a grudge.
Is God's grace that powerful in us? Do we recognize that God has a plan for us? Do we look back on our life and see him active through it all, carrying us along, helping us and strengthening us? Even if others have hurt us, if we look at all of God's goodness, we will be motivated to love and forgive. Just look at the love of Christ! - love that led him to suffer, bleed, and die that our sins and rebellion against God might be forgiven.
Jacob (Israel) sent his sons saying, "May God Almighty grant you mercy." We pray the same thing as we seek to live for Christ: May God Almighty grant us mercy! We have fallen short. May he forgive. We are weak. May he strengthen us. We are in need. May he help us and give us peace. Amen.
Pray:
We give thanks to You, Lord Jesus, for Your bitter suffering and painful death, whereby You purchased us from the pangs of eternal death. Thanks be to You that You have sent us the Word of Your salvation. Preserve it with us pure and unadulterated, and whenever we hear or read it, reveal Yourself to us as the Savior of our souls. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Convicted
Today we see how God convicts us of sin. Though this is painful and unpleasant for us, we see that even this is his gracious activity, for he desires that we turn and repent, and that we be forgiven by the blood of Jesus shed on the cross.
Read Psalm 39
Quote from Luther: "The psalmist prays that God not let him murmur or become impatient, even though the godless live securely and accumulate goods as if they would never die, while the godly are constantly plagued and punished on account of their sins. He desires rather that God would grant him to think of how short and uncertain this life is, lest he join the ungodly and live without fear of death in careless greed and vain display...In the end we find that the best of all is still to have the forgiveness of sins and a gracious God, who will help us out of any misery, as the psalmist here says and prays." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
Read Genesis 42
Joseph's brothers are convicted of the sin against Joseph. I'm sure their consciences plagued them with guilt from time to time. What had they done? Where was their brother now? Was he suffering? Dead? Or doing well? Would they see him again? Would their sin be found out? What would their father do? What would God do about it?
They begin to think that they are being punished because of their sin when they are thrown in prison. They confronted this governor of Egypt (Joseph, though the didn't know it) who spoke harshly and accused them of espionage. Though they tell the truth to him repeatedly, they are still treated harshly and thrown into jail. Reuben, the oldest who wanted to free Joseph, rebukes his brothers. They are suffering just punishment, they all believe. They fear for their lives, but also for their father, who will be left without grain and all but one son.
The situation changes, and they can bring grain home with only Simeon left behind. But their hearts, their courage, and all strength leaves them when they see a "mistake" has been made with the money. They are afraid that Simeon will pay for this mistake, and they will not be able to return for more grain. Certainly, God will make things worse for them before the situation gets better. It seems that God is driving them to repentance with threats, punishment, and great fear.
And we cannot blame Joseph of wrongdoing. He weeps, showing his love, compassion, and desire to have a right relationship with his brothers. He tests them, yes, but he also is God's instrument to drive them to repentance, so that they might be freely forgiven and restored.
There was grain in all the cities that had surrounding fields (Gen. 41:48), but God in his mercy and providence makes sure that Joseph and the brothers run into each other. The events that then transpire are clearly God's will and his design. God is providing a way to meet the needs of Israel and his household. God is providing for the reconciliation of the family. God is also providing a way for Israel to move to Egypt, so Israel could later be called out of it.
We will see that Israel going to Egypt and being led out is a foreshadowing of Christ, who is called out of Egypt. We will see that it is also a foreshadowing of us, who are called out of our slavery to sin.
God has an amazing plan at work. And in the meantime, he is gracious to convict the brothers of their sin so that they might be restored.
"Unrepentant sin is not resolved by time or forgetfulness, but by true repentance and forgiveness." (TLSB, p. 82).
Luther: "Christ is our completely friendly Joseph, who died for us and shed His blood for the remission of our sins." (TLSB, p. 82).
Ask Yourself:
It is unpleasant to endure God's rebuke. But do I see even his rebuke as a gracious activity?
Of what sin might God be working to convict me today?
Do I faithfully and joyfully receive God's free pardon and grace, knowing that like Joseph, our Christ has our best interests and our restoration in mind?
Pray:
O Lord, no matter how high I sit, You are able to cast me down, and no matter how deep I have fallen, You are able to lift me up. To You be glory, through Jesus Christ. Amen. (TLSB, p. 82).
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 39
Quote from Luther: "The psalmist prays that God not let him murmur or become impatient, even though the godless live securely and accumulate goods as if they would never die, while the godly are constantly plagued and punished on account of their sins. He desires rather that God would grant him to think of how short and uncertain this life is, lest he join the ungodly and live without fear of death in careless greed and vain display...In the end we find that the best of all is still to have the forgiveness of sins and a gracious God, who will help us out of any misery, as the psalmist here says and prays." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
Read Genesis 42
Joseph's brothers are convicted of the sin against Joseph. I'm sure their consciences plagued them with guilt from time to time. What had they done? Where was their brother now? Was he suffering? Dead? Or doing well? Would they see him again? Would their sin be found out? What would their father do? What would God do about it?
They begin to think that they are being punished because of their sin when they are thrown in prison. They confronted this governor of Egypt (Joseph, though the didn't know it) who spoke harshly and accused them of espionage. Though they tell the truth to him repeatedly, they are still treated harshly and thrown into jail. Reuben, the oldest who wanted to free Joseph, rebukes his brothers. They are suffering just punishment, they all believe. They fear for their lives, but also for their father, who will be left without grain and all but one son.
The situation changes, and they can bring grain home with only Simeon left behind. But their hearts, their courage, and all strength leaves them when they see a "mistake" has been made with the money. They are afraid that Simeon will pay for this mistake, and they will not be able to return for more grain. Certainly, God will make things worse for them before the situation gets better. It seems that God is driving them to repentance with threats, punishment, and great fear.
And we cannot blame Joseph of wrongdoing. He weeps, showing his love, compassion, and desire to have a right relationship with his brothers. He tests them, yes, but he also is God's instrument to drive them to repentance, so that they might be freely forgiven and restored.
There was grain in all the cities that had surrounding fields (Gen. 41:48), but God in his mercy and providence makes sure that Joseph and the brothers run into each other. The events that then transpire are clearly God's will and his design. God is providing a way to meet the needs of Israel and his household. God is providing for the reconciliation of the family. God is also providing a way for Israel to move to Egypt, so Israel could later be called out of it.
We will see that Israel going to Egypt and being led out is a foreshadowing of Christ, who is called out of Egypt. We will see that it is also a foreshadowing of us, who are called out of our slavery to sin.
God has an amazing plan at work. And in the meantime, he is gracious to convict the brothers of their sin so that they might be restored.
"Unrepentant sin is not resolved by time or forgetfulness, but by true repentance and forgiveness." (TLSB, p. 82).
Luther: "Christ is our completely friendly Joseph, who died for us and shed His blood for the remission of our sins." (TLSB, p. 82).
Ask Yourself:
It is unpleasant to endure God's rebuke. But do I see even his rebuke as a gracious activity?
Of what sin might God be working to convict me today?
Do I faithfully and joyfully receive God's free pardon and grace, knowing that like Joseph, our Christ has our best interests and our restoration in mind?
Pray:
O Lord, no matter how high I sit, You are able to cast me down, and no matter how deep I have fallen, You are able to lift me up. To You be glory, through Jesus Christ. Amen. (TLSB, p. 82).
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Monday, October 26, 2009
God Provides
Read Psalm 38
Quote from Luther: "The 38th psalm is a psalm of prayer in which the psalmist laments over his sins, on account of which his conscience despairs and is greatly afflicted and can see nothing but God's arrows, that is, God's anger, threats, death, and hell...But for all that, the psalmist teaches us to hold fast and not despair. He teaches us to arm ourselves with prayer...to lay claim to God's promise and take hold of it to the proper end, namely, that we be godly and righteous before God. Then the comfort of faith will flow again." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
Read Genesis 41
Did you notice that Joseph gives God the credit? He tells Pharaoh, "It is not in me" to interpret the dreams. But, he says, God will answer.
God revealed the meaning of the dreams to Joseph, and in addition, God filled Joseph with great wisdom and advice. Joseph seamlessly transitions from interpreting the dream to giving advice to Pharaoh about how to handle the upcoming years of plenty and years of want.
Pharaoh can't help but be impressed. None of his magicians could do what God has now done through Joseph! His dreams were interpreted! And what's more, Joseph's advice sounded excellent to him. Pharaoh basically puts this 30 year old man he never met before in charge of his kingdom. I'm sure he kept close tabs on Joseph, at least until he saw first hand Joseph's wisdom and the excellence of all his work. God is certainly with this young man.
Because of Joseph all of Egypt is blessed. In the famine, they have bread because of the stored up grain. In fact, when the surrounding nations ran out of food, they came to Egypt. This chapter tells us that "all the earth" came to Egypt to buy food from Joseph.
A bit of a hyperbole (an exaggeration to make a point) perhaps, but it is written that way to show how God is keeping his promise to Abraham. He promised that through Abraham all the families of the earth would be blessed. Now through Abraham's descendant, Joseph, the families of the earth get food.
Including Joseph's own family. We see them decide to come to Egypt tomorrow.
But for now we remember that God is gracious. He works mightily in his chosen one to provide for the needs of the earth.
God would do a similar but much bigger thing through his only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Through that chosen One, he would provide for the needs of all on earth: our forgiveness, life, and salvation. Thanks be to God!
Ask Yourself:
Do I publicly give God the glory for what he does in our lives?
Do I hold fast to Christ in good days and in bad, trusting him to work all things out for good?
Do I trust that God will provide for all my needs of body and soul?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today concerning whatever is on your mind. Then pray the Lord's Prayer. Then trust God to give us this day our "daily bread."
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Quote from Luther: "The 38th psalm is a psalm of prayer in which the psalmist laments over his sins, on account of which his conscience despairs and is greatly afflicted and can see nothing but God's arrows, that is, God's anger, threats, death, and hell...But for all that, the psalmist teaches us to hold fast and not despair. He teaches us to arm ourselves with prayer...to lay claim to God's promise and take hold of it to the proper end, namely, that we be godly and righteous before God. Then the comfort of faith will flow again." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
Read Genesis 41
Did you notice that Joseph gives God the credit? He tells Pharaoh, "It is not in me" to interpret the dreams. But, he says, God will answer.
God revealed the meaning of the dreams to Joseph, and in addition, God filled Joseph with great wisdom and advice. Joseph seamlessly transitions from interpreting the dream to giving advice to Pharaoh about how to handle the upcoming years of plenty and years of want.
Pharaoh can't help but be impressed. None of his magicians could do what God has now done through Joseph! His dreams were interpreted! And what's more, Joseph's advice sounded excellent to him. Pharaoh basically puts this 30 year old man he never met before in charge of his kingdom. I'm sure he kept close tabs on Joseph, at least until he saw first hand Joseph's wisdom and the excellence of all his work. God is certainly with this young man.
Because of Joseph all of Egypt is blessed. In the famine, they have bread because of the stored up grain. In fact, when the surrounding nations ran out of food, they came to Egypt. This chapter tells us that "all the earth" came to Egypt to buy food from Joseph.
A bit of a hyperbole (an exaggeration to make a point) perhaps, but it is written that way to show how God is keeping his promise to Abraham. He promised that through Abraham all the families of the earth would be blessed. Now through Abraham's descendant, Joseph, the families of the earth get food.
Including Joseph's own family. We see them decide to come to Egypt tomorrow.
But for now we remember that God is gracious. He works mightily in his chosen one to provide for the needs of the earth.
God would do a similar but much bigger thing through his only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Through that chosen One, he would provide for the needs of all on earth: our forgiveness, life, and salvation. Thanks be to God!
Ask Yourself:
Do I publicly give God the glory for what he does in our lives?
Do I hold fast to Christ in good days and in bad, trusting him to work all things out for good?
Do I trust that God will provide for all my needs of body and soul?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today concerning whatever is on your mind. Then pray the Lord's Prayer. Then trust God to give us this day our "daily bread."
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Be Patient
Read Psalm 37
Quote from Luther: "The message is this: Learn to have endurance. Take your heart to God and do not let yourself be vexed. Do not become envious, or curse, or with evil to fall, or murmur, or look at them with hatred...For it is a great and difficult art to manifest such patient longsuffering, when reason and all the heathen count envy as virtue." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
Read Genesis 40
God's plan is at work. While Joseph is in charge of everything that happens in the jail, he still is himself a prisoner. But God gives two of the inmates special dreams, and he gives Joseph insight into the meaning. Joseph can do this only by the special revelation of God, not by any other human wisdom or other supernatural powers. Joseph himself says it, "Do not interpretations belong to God?"
And so the cupbearer is restored, just as Joseph said. But he forgets to tell Pharaoh about Joseph. How could this be! Oh, we should expect it. Too many people forget to be grateful to God after he has done something marvelous. Too many people forget to show thanks to other humans who have helped them greatly. We too have forgotten to give thanks.
But when we have received the comfort and the inheritance that Psalm 37 speaks repeatedly about, then let us sing praise to God. For we must be patient for a while (and we are so impatient!), but after the time of waiting, God will bring his plan to fulfillment.
And so at the end of Genesis 40, Joseph is still waiting in prison. But God will jar the cupbearer's memory, and he will become a bearer of good news to Pharaoh: there is one in prison who can interpret dreams!
But for now, Joseph waits patiently. Oh, may we have the strength by the Holy Spirit to do the same!
Ask Yourself:
How is my impatience visible most frequently?
How can I show gratitude to God and to my neighbors today?
How many times does Psalm 37 promise a blessed inheritance to those who are in Christ? How can I continually remind myself of that in times of plenty and in times of lack?
Pray:
Oh may this bounteous God
Through all our life be near us,
With ever joyful hearts
And blessed peace to cheer us
And keep us in His grace
And guide us when perplexed
And free us from all ills
In this world and the next!
(LSB 895:2)
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Quote from Luther: "The message is this: Learn to have endurance. Take your heart to God and do not let yourself be vexed. Do not become envious, or curse, or with evil to fall, or murmur, or look at them with hatred...For it is a great and difficult art to manifest such patient longsuffering, when reason and all the heathen count envy as virtue." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
Read Genesis 40
God's plan is at work. While Joseph is in charge of everything that happens in the jail, he still is himself a prisoner. But God gives two of the inmates special dreams, and he gives Joseph insight into the meaning. Joseph can do this only by the special revelation of God, not by any other human wisdom or other supernatural powers. Joseph himself says it, "Do not interpretations belong to God?"
And so the cupbearer is restored, just as Joseph said. But he forgets to tell Pharaoh about Joseph. How could this be! Oh, we should expect it. Too many people forget to be grateful to God after he has done something marvelous. Too many people forget to show thanks to other humans who have helped them greatly. We too have forgotten to give thanks.
But when we have received the comfort and the inheritance that Psalm 37 speaks repeatedly about, then let us sing praise to God. For we must be patient for a while (and we are so impatient!), but after the time of waiting, God will bring his plan to fulfillment.
And so at the end of Genesis 40, Joseph is still waiting in prison. But God will jar the cupbearer's memory, and he will become a bearer of good news to Pharaoh: there is one in prison who can interpret dreams!
But for now, Joseph waits patiently. Oh, may we have the strength by the Holy Spirit to do the same!
Ask Yourself:
How is my impatience visible most frequently?
How can I show gratitude to God and to my neighbors today?
How many times does Psalm 37 promise a blessed inheritance to those who are in Christ? How can I continually remind myself of that in times of plenty and in times of lack?
Pray:
Oh may this bounteous God
Through all our life be near us,
With ever joyful hearts
And blessed peace to cheer us
And keep us in His grace
And guide us when perplexed
And free us from all ills
In this world and the next!
(LSB 895:2)
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Friday, October 23, 2009
How Precious is Your Steadfast Love!
Welcome again to another day of the study of God's Word. What a joy it is for me to be delving into the richness of His life-giving Word everyday! I pray that you stay committed and share in that joy as well. May my humble thoughts, and the meditation of your hearts, be pleasing to God Almighty and the Lamb who sits on the throne!
Read Psalm 36
Read Genesis 39
King David prayed Psalm 36. I would be willing to bet that Joseph prayed something similar. Who knows the fears and terrors that went through his mind! What would a slave be required to do in Egypt? What is that land like? How poorly will I be treated?
But we see quickly that the Lord was with Joseph. Yahweh, the God who made the covenant with his great-grandfather Abraham was with Joseph to protect him, provide for him, and prosper him. Yes, the precious steadfast love of the Lord was upon Joseph. He arises into a high standing quickly in Potiphar's house. Joseph takes care of all the affairs of the house well, so that Potiphar's only worry is "What's for dinner?"
Joseph is a righteous man, and he flees sexual temptation. (God's Word instructs us to do the same: 1 Cor. 6:18). He glorifies God with his actions, and also shows great wisdom. He is unfairly accused and betrayed by Potiphar's wife, just as he was unfairly treated and betrayed by his brothers. So now the slave Joseph becomes a prisoner Joseph. Could it get any worse!? Yes! You see, this is not so bad for Joseph. God is still with him. He gains the respect of the jail keeper. Just like Potiphar, the Jailer worries over nothing. Joseph, in a sense, becomes the lord of the jail. Nothing happened if it was not his doing. God is prospering Joseph again, and more than that, God is positioning him to rise even higher in Egypt. One step back, two steps forward.
But as we recall, Joseph's rise to power in Egypt will not just be for Joseph's benefit. Just as Potiphar was blessed because of Joseph, and the jailer was blessed because of Joseph, so also all of Egypt and the surrounding area will be blessed by the God of Joseph, who provides for their needs through Joseph his faithful servant. So let's not be deceived by a prosperity theology that says, "See! If you just live this way or that, you will please God and he will bless you with wealth and riches!" No. Let us rather say "See! If you live righteously according to God's Will, by the grace of God he will use you in incredible ways for his purposes!" There is a difference. God has promised you heavenly riches, not earthly ones. God has not promised wealth in this life, but he has promised that you, his servant, will be used for his glory.
Indeed, God's steadfast love is precious! It benefits each and every one of us who believes in Jesus! So, just as David prayed Psalm 36, and just as Joseph must have prayed something similar in thankfulness to God, we also pray, (and make this your closing prayer today):
Read Psalm 36
Read Genesis 39
King David prayed Psalm 36. I would be willing to bet that Joseph prayed something similar. Who knows the fears and terrors that went through his mind! What would a slave be required to do in Egypt? What is that land like? How poorly will I be treated?
But we see quickly that the Lord was with Joseph. Yahweh, the God who made the covenant with his great-grandfather Abraham was with Joseph to protect him, provide for him, and prosper him. Yes, the precious steadfast love of the Lord was upon Joseph. He arises into a high standing quickly in Potiphar's house. Joseph takes care of all the affairs of the house well, so that Potiphar's only worry is "What's for dinner?"
Joseph is a righteous man, and he flees sexual temptation. (God's Word instructs us to do the same: 1 Cor. 6:18). He glorifies God with his actions, and also shows great wisdom. He is unfairly accused and betrayed by Potiphar's wife, just as he was unfairly treated and betrayed by his brothers. So now the slave Joseph becomes a prisoner Joseph. Could it get any worse!? Yes! You see, this is not so bad for Joseph. God is still with him. He gains the respect of the jail keeper. Just like Potiphar, the Jailer worries over nothing. Joseph, in a sense, becomes the lord of the jail. Nothing happened if it was not his doing. God is prospering Joseph again, and more than that, God is positioning him to rise even higher in Egypt. One step back, two steps forward.
But as we recall, Joseph's rise to power in Egypt will not just be for Joseph's benefit. Just as Potiphar was blessed because of Joseph, and the jailer was blessed because of Joseph, so also all of Egypt and the surrounding area will be blessed by the God of Joseph, who provides for their needs through Joseph his faithful servant. So let's not be deceived by a prosperity theology that says, "See! If you just live this way or that, you will please God and he will bless you with wealth and riches!" No. Let us rather say "See! If you live righteously according to God's Will, by the grace of God he will use you in incredible ways for his purposes!" There is a difference. God has promised you heavenly riches, not earthly ones. God has not promised wealth in this life, but he has promised that you, his servant, will be used for his glory.
Indeed, God's steadfast love is precious! It benefits each and every one of us who believes in Jesus! So, just as David prayed Psalm 36, and just as Joseph must have prayed something similar in thankfulness to God, we also pray, (and make this your closing prayer today):
5 Your steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the clouds.
6 Your righteousness is like the mountains of God;
your judgments are like the great deep;
man and beast you save, O LORD.
7 How precious is your steadfast love, O God!
The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
8They feast on the abundance of your house,
and you give them drink from the river of your delights.
9For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light do we see light.
Ask Yourself:
In what ways have I succeeded (by the grace of God) to flee sexual immorality? In what ways have I failed?
Do I attribute my success in life to my hard work and determination, or to God?
How can I better be responsible, righteous before men, and skilled in my job or other vocation (calling in life)?
Pray:
Psalm 36:5-9
Study with me tomorrow!
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Contend, O Lord!
I hope you are ready for some heavy readings from the Bible today! The first one is an imprecatory, or curse, psalm. The reading from Genesis certainly has some content for a mature audience. Yet in these we will see God's mercy at work. May God bless our study!
Read Psalm 35
In this psalm we are begging God to be a warrior who will fight for us. We ask him at the beginning to grab a shield, a spear, a javelin, and go to war against our enemies. In this "curse" psalm we ask God to pursue our enemies, to make their way treacherous, to overtake them, and destroy them.
We can understand the strong emotions if we keep in mind that these enemies of David were people close to him who betrayed him. We all certainly have times when the anger rises up in us. Anger is not necessarily a sin, but we must remember that we are encouraged in Scripture to "be angry and do not sin" (Psalm 4:4). So when we are hurt, grieved, upset, angry, what do we do?
We pray the imprecatory psalms. The Lutheran Study Bible has a helpful explanation: "Praying the imprecatory psalms can help God's people express their anguish before God rather than act out their feelings in an unjust way. Imprecatory psalms prayed with psalms of repentance and hope can guide troubled hearts through the feelings they cannot escape. God called Israel to be a blessing to all nations (Gn 12:3). He has likewise called us to bear witness to His grace. Along with this high calling, our knowledge of God's approaching judgment on the wicked and our painful experiences in life drive us to anticipate the day of wrath, which will end injustices. For these reasons, the imprecatory psalms still have an important role to play in the prayers of God's people" (TLSB, p. 879).
Keep that in mind when we read psalms that ask God to destroy enemies. As Christians, we can indeed look forward to the final judgment where God's justice frees us from all wickedness and evil. We look forward to the judgment (though humbly because we are aware of our sins) knowing that what awaits us by the grace of Christ is peace, paradise, and bliss. Thanks be to God.
Read Genesis 38
Oh, what can we say? According to the practice of the day, Judah's second son should have given Tamar offspring. Judah should have then given Tamar his third son after his second son died. According to the Hittite practice, if a brother could not give offspring, then the father in law should have. So Tamar took matters into her own hands. There is not one person in this story who comes out ok in the end. No one did what was good, decent, and right.
Really it is a most awful chapter to have to read.
But you know what? Again, God is gracious. Tamar gets mention in Matthew's genealogy of Jesus. She is just one of many surprising characters in that genealogy. Yes, from Judah and Tamar would come Perez, the one who would carry the line of the Messiah. God carries out his plan in spite of sin.
Well, we hear little about the direct line of the Messiah for a time being. We now focus on Joseph, and that finishes out Genesis. But that the line was traced carefully to this point shows God's great care in providing for us a Messiah, Son of Man and Son of God, who would redeem this dysfunctional, sinful, diseased race. A Messiah to save me.
Ask Yourself:
Do I consider my own sinful nature one of my enemies?
Do I wage war against my own sin?
Do I need to fear the judgment? Do I seek to live for God with all my heart and soul and mind and strength?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Pray for all the injustices in your life and in the lives of God's people. Pray against persecution, against the wicked minions of the devil, against Satan's deceptions. Pray that God would come and end evil activity. Pray that God would use you battle the forces of the devil.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 35
In this psalm we are begging God to be a warrior who will fight for us. We ask him at the beginning to grab a shield, a spear, a javelin, and go to war against our enemies. In this "curse" psalm we ask God to pursue our enemies, to make their way treacherous, to overtake them, and destroy them.
We can understand the strong emotions if we keep in mind that these enemies of David were people close to him who betrayed him. We all certainly have times when the anger rises up in us. Anger is not necessarily a sin, but we must remember that we are encouraged in Scripture to "be angry and do not sin" (Psalm 4:4). So when we are hurt, grieved, upset, angry, what do we do?
We pray the imprecatory psalms. The Lutheran Study Bible has a helpful explanation: "Praying the imprecatory psalms can help God's people express their anguish before God rather than act out their feelings in an unjust way. Imprecatory psalms prayed with psalms of repentance and hope can guide troubled hearts through the feelings they cannot escape. God called Israel to be a blessing to all nations (Gn 12:3). He has likewise called us to bear witness to His grace. Along with this high calling, our knowledge of God's approaching judgment on the wicked and our painful experiences in life drive us to anticipate the day of wrath, which will end injustices. For these reasons, the imprecatory psalms still have an important role to play in the prayers of God's people" (TLSB, p. 879).
Keep that in mind when we read psalms that ask God to destroy enemies. As Christians, we can indeed look forward to the final judgment where God's justice frees us from all wickedness and evil. We look forward to the judgment (though humbly because we are aware of our sins) knowing that what awaits us by the grace of Christ is peace, paradise, and bliss. Thanks be to God.
Read Genesis 38
Oh, what can we say? According to the practice of the day, Judah's second son should have given Tamar offspring. Judah should have then given Tamar his third son after his second son died. According to the Hittite practice, if a brother could not give offspring, then the father in law should have. So Tamar took matters into her own hands. There is not one person in this story who comes out ok in the end. No one did what was good, decent, and right.
Really it is a most awful chapter to have to read.
But you know what? Again, God is gracious. Tamar gets mention in Matthew's genealogy of Jesus. She is just one of many surprising characters in that genealogy. Yes, from Judah and Tamar would come Perez, the one who would carry the line of the Messiah. God carries out his plan in spite of sin.
Well, we hear little about the direct line of the Messiah for a time being. We now focus on Joseph, and that finishes out Genesis. But that the line was traced carefully to this point shows God's great care in providing for us a Messiah, Son of Man and Son of God, who would redeem this dysfunctional, sinful, diseased race. A Messiah to save me.
Ask Yourself:
Do I consider my own sinful nature one of my enemies?
Do I wage war against my own sin?
Do I need to fear the judgment? Do I seek to live for God with all my heart and soul and mind and strength?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Pray for all the injustices in your life and in the lives of God's people. Pray against persecution, against the wicked minions of the devil, against Satan's deceptions. Pray that God would come and end evil activity. Pray that God would use you battle the forces of the devil.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
The Lutheran Study Bible
This is not the study for the day, but rather a special announcement!
I received my copy of The Lutheran Study Bible (TLSB) on Monday! I am thrilled. What a monumental effort it must have been to put together such an excellent resource. What a helpful, wonderful, blessed, and life-giving book the Bible is (it's God's own Word after all!), and to have also many articles, maps, notes, quotes, diagrams, charts, and explanations helps this specific Bible to explain wonderfully that life-giving message of Christ. Praise the Lord! It is incredible.
To learn more and to order a copy for yourself, go to: http://www.cph.org/lutheranbible. You will save at least $20.00 if you order before October 31st!
Speak, O Lord, Your servant listens,
Let Your Word to me come near;
Newborn life and spirit give me,
Let each promise still my fear.
Death's dread pow'r, its inward strife,
Wars against Your Word of life;
Fill me, Lord, with love's strong fervor
That I cling to You forever!
(LSB 589:1, Public Domain)
Today's study continues below...
I received my copy of The Lutheran Study Bible (TLSB) on Monday! I am thrilled. What a monumental effort it must have been to put together such an excellent resource. What a helpful, wonderful, blessed, and life-giving book the Bible is (it's God's own Word after all!), and to have also many articles, maps, notes, quotes, diagrams, charts, and explanations helps this specific Bible to explain wonderfully that life-giving message of Christ. Praise the Lord! It is incredible.
To learn more and to order a copy for yourself, go to: http://www.cph.org/lutheranbible. You will save at least $20.00 if you order before October 31st!
Speak, O Lord, Your servant listens,
Let Your Word to me come near;
Newborn life and spirit give me,
Let each promise still my fear.
Death's dread pow'r, its inward strife,
Wars against Your Word of life;
Fill me, Lord, with love's strong fervor
That I cling to You forever!
(LSB 589:1, Public Domain)
Today's study continues below...
Master of Dreams
Our opening prayer:
Lord, Your words are waters living
When my thirsting spirit pleads.
Lord, Your words are bread life-giving;
on Your words my spirit feeds.
Lord, Your words will be my light
Through death's cold and dreary night;
Yes, they are my sword prevailing
And my cup of joy unfailing!
(LSB 589:2, Public Domain)
Read Psalm 34
Read Genesis 37
I see an interesting devotional thought in my new Lutheran Study Bible (TLSB) concerning dreams. It says, "You will have many dreams during your life. Be careful about interpreting them. In Genesis, God used dreams especially to reveal His will. But today, we have God's will recorded in the Bible for us. While interpreting the Book of Genesis, Luther noted, 'I, too, at times have dreams that move me somewhat, but I despise them and have come to this understanding with my Lord God that I will believe Moses and the prophets.'" (p. 74).
So, let us not make too much of dreams. For if we want to know for sure what God is telling us, we don't rely on dreams, or try to listen for his voice, or try to consult some sort of medium, but rather, we consult the Bible. Not that God can't speak in a dream or into our ears, but our hope, our expectations, and our certainties come from the inspired, revealed Word of God, the Bible.
But God did speak through Joseph's dreams. His brothers sarcastically call him a "Dreamer," or, rather literally, "Master of Dreams." But these dreams reveal an event far in the future, an outcome that the brothers would never have imagined, and would never believe though it was just told to them plainly. In the end, they will bow down to Joseph.
But nothing seems less likely than that at the end of our chapter. Joseph is a slave. Jacob (Israel) believes he is dead. The brothers are rid of the master of dreams.
But as we begin this whole Joseph story, I must skip to the end. I skip to 13 chapters later in Genesis and share the words of Joseph to his brothers, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good" (Genesis 50:20).
We so often want to know why God allows what he allows, does what he does, and says what he says. But we cannot see 1 second into the future. Therefore, when we are in the midst of a period of trial we desperately call out to God "Why?". Joseph may have wondered "why" for years and years and years.
But the point is this: eventually, God proves there was a reason. In fact, he was able to use even the wickedness of the brothers for good. He was able to overcome sin, and actually provide for the lives of thousands (millions?) of people through Joseph.
Now, there is no denying that these were terrible actions of the brothers. Terrible! But it is God's goodness that brings out of it food for nations, healing for a family, and blessings for a young man sold as a slave. God is powerful. God is good.
Ask Yourself:
What hardships have I suffered because of the sin of family members? Friends? Coworkers? Or just because of "circumstances"?
I still fail to see good coming from what events in my life?
How does the end of the Joseph story bring me peace?
Pray:
As I pray, dear Jesus, hear me;
Let Your words in me take root.
May Your Spirit e'er be near me
That I bear abundant fruit.
May I daily sing Your praise,
From my heart glad anthems raise,
Till my highest praise is given
In the endless joy of heaven.
(LSB 589:4, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow (maybe with a Lutheran Study Bible!),
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Lord, Your words are waters living
When my thirsting spirit pleads.
Lord, Your words are bread life-giving;
on Your words my spirit feeds.
Lord, Your words will be my light
Through death's cold and dreary night;
Yes, they are my sword prevailing
And my cup of joy unfailing!
(LSB 589:2, Public Domain)
Read Psalm 34
Read Genesis 37
I see an interesting devotional thought in my new Lutheran Study Bible (TLSB) concerning dreams. It says, "You will have many dreams during your life. Be careful about interpreting them. In Genesis, God used dreams especially to reveal His will. But today, we have God's will recorded in the Bible for us. While interpreting the Book of Genesis, Luther noted, 'I, too, at times have dreams that move me somewhat, but I despise them and have come to this understanding with my Lord God that I will believe Moses and the prophets.'" (p. 74).
So, let us not make too much of dreams. For if we want to know for sure what God is telling us, we don't rely on dreams, or try to listen for his voice, or try to consult some sort of medium, but rather, we consult the Bible. Not that God can't speak in a dream or into our ears, but our hope, our expectations, and our certainties come from the inspired, revealed Word of God, the Bible.
But God did speak through Joseph's dreams. His brothers sarcastically call him a "Dreamer," or, rather literally, "Master of Dreams." But these dreams reveal an event far in the future, an outcome that the brothers would never have imagined, and would never believe though it was just told to them plainly. In the end, they will bow down to Joseph.
But nothing seems less likely than that at the end of our chapter. Joseph is a slave. Jacob (Israel) believes he is dead. The brothers are rid of the master of dreams.
But as we begin this whole Joseph story, I must skip to the end. I skip to 13 chapters later in Genesis and share the words of Joseph to his brothers, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good" (Genesis 50:20).
We so often want to know why God allows what he allows, does what he does, and says what he says. But we cannot see 1 second into the future. Therefore, when we are in the midst of a period of trial we desperately call out to God "Why?". Joseph may have wondered "why" for years and years and years.
But the point is this: eventually, God proves there was a reason. In fact, he was able to use even the wickedness of the brothers for good. He was able to overcome sin, and actually provide for the lives of thousands (millions?) of people through Joseph.
Now, there is no denying that these were terrible actions of the brothers. Terrible! But it is God's goodness that brings out of it food for nations, healing for a family, and blessings for a young man sold as a slave. God is powerful. God is good.
Ask Yourself:
What hardships have I suffered because of the sin of family members? Friends? Coworkers? Or just because of "circumstances"?
I still fail to see good coming from what events in my life?
How does the end of the Joseph story bring me peace?
Pray:
As I pray, dear Jesus, hear me;
Let Your words in me take root.
May Your Spirit e'er be near me
That I bear abundant fruit.
May I daily sing Your praise,
From my heart glad anthems raise,
Till my highest praise is given
In the endless joy of heaven.
(LSB 589:4, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow (maybe with a Lutheran Study Bible!),
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
By the Word of the Lord
Today we will again focus mostly on our Psalm. Our reading from Genesis is the genealogy of Esau. This will be important because Edom will become great and powerful. They will also become a thorn in Israel's side. They will even be God's agent of judgment upon Israel's wickedness. But in the end, Edom will be judged for its wickedness as well. All this is coming down the line. But we see the beginnings of the nation of Edom today. With no further comments on that, we read our Genesis chapter, and then focus on the psalm.
Read Genesis 36
Read Psalm 33
Quote from Luther: "The 33rd psalm is a psalm of thanks to God in general for His blessings, for helping His faithful people in all kinds of distress, and for not letting them perish. He is able to help because He made all things and still creates all things with a word, so that nothing is impossible with Him. God is also so good and true that He will help and willingly helps, as He promised in the First Commandment, 'I will be your God,' that is, I will be your comfort, help, salvation, life, and all good things, and I will stand against anything that would do you harm. That's what it means to 'be God.'" Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
So, why is it that we get so distressed and worried? Obstacles stand in our way, and we panic! The future seems unclear, and we are afraid! There is even a hint of trouble, and we wring our hands and shake our heads!
So easily we get discouraged. So easily we are afraid. So easily we forget to pray and trust, thinking that if we don't know the answer, or we can't provide the solution, then we must be doomed!
But God is the one who created everything out of nothing with only a word! God is the one who still creates, who still provides, who still takes care of me. An army can't save me. God can. Money can't provide for me. God can. Medicine can't heal me. God can. My strength cannot carry me through this time of trial. God can.
God can. God will. You see, you were created by the Word of God. Not just your physical life, but your spiritual lives in Christ. The Word was spoken over you "In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit," and water was administered according to the command of Christ, and you were remade. You were reborn. You were gifted with new life in Christ.
Your body and soul, fashioned by the Father, redeemed by the Son, sanctified (made holy) by the Holy Spirit is precious to our loving Triune God. He knows your need. He loves you. He hears your persistent prayers. He creates a solution to your problems. If all things are not worked out the way we would like them, we can take comfort knowing that they are worked out the way that is best for us now in this life. And in the next...well, we will have the New Heaven and New Earth, created at the command of God, to be our eternal home of blessing. God promises. And since God's Word creates, his promise makes it so. Amen. Thanks be to God!
Ask Yourself:
What am I worried about today?
What threats or unknowns in the future cause me great concern?
What can I do to remind myself that our powerful, creative God will direct our future as he has our past?
Pray:
We thank You, Lord, for all the good that You have shown us from the days of our childhood. Continue to multiply Your mercies upon us, keep us in Your fear and favor, cause us to walk in Your praise, protect us from all enemies, both visible and invisible, and grant us, like Simeon of old, to depart in peace, through Christ, our Savior. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Genesis 36
Read Psalm 33
Quote from Luther: "The 33rd psalm is a psalm of thanks to God in general for His blessings, for helping His faithful people in all kinds of distress, and for not letting them perish. He is able to help because He made all things and still creates all things with a word, so that nothing is impossible with Him. God is also so good and true that He will help and willingly helps, as He promised in the First Commandment, 'I will be your God,' that is, I will be your comfort, help, salvation, life, and all good things, and I will stand against anything that would do you harm. That's what it means to 'be God.'" Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
So, why is it that we get so distressed and worried? Obstacles stand in our way, and we panic! The future seems unclear, and we are afraid! There is even a hint of trouble, and we wring our hands and shake our heads!
So easily we get discouraged. So easily we are afraid. So easily we forget to pray and trust, thinking that if we don't know the answer, or we can't provide the solution, then we must be doomed!
But God is the one who created everything out of nothing with only a word! God is the one who still creates, who still provides, who still takes care of me. An army can't save me. God can. Money can't provide for me. God can. Medicine can't heal me. God can. My strength cannot carry me through this time of trial. God can.
God can. God will. You see, you were created by the Word of God. Not just your physical life, but your spiritual lives in Christ. The Word was spoken over you "In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit," and water was administered according to the command of Christ, and you were remade. You were reborn. You were gifted with new life in Christ.
Your body and soul, fashioned by the Father, redeemed by the Son, sanctified (made holy) by the Holy Spirit is precious to our loving Triune God. He knows your need. He loves you. He hears your persistent prayers. He creates a solution to your problems. If all things are not worked out the way we would like them, we can take comfort knowing that they are worked out the way that is best for us now in this life. And in the next...well, we will have the New Heaven and New Earth, created at the command of God, to be our eternal home of blessing. God promises. And since God's Word creates, his promise makes it so. Amen. Thanks be to God!
Ask Yourself:
What am I worried about today?
What threats or unknowns in the future cause me great concern?
What can I do to remind myself that our powerful, creative God will direct our future as he has our past?
Pray:
We thank You, Lord, for all the good that You have shown us from the days of our childhood. Continue to multiply Your mercies upon us, keep us in Your fear and favor, cause us to walk in Your praise, protect us from all enemies, both visible and invisible, and grant us, like Simeon of old, to depart in peace, through Christ, our Savior. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Sin is Covered
Today we focus on the psalm. We'll read the Genesis reading first, then concentrate on Psalm 32. May God bless our study today.
Read Genesis 35
Read Psalm 32
Have you ever had the guilt burn inside of you? Your ears feel hot, your stomach sour, your chest feel burdened? King David has. He describes the feeling eloquently, "When I kept silent, my bones wasted away."
David knew the horrid guilt. But he also knew the forgiveness. And if King David, a leader of a nation, and a role model for a country can fall, and yet rise up again in God's forgiveness, than I too can confess my sin and be forgiven.
What a joy it is to know that my forgiveness is not something I earn, but is given by God. This Psalm is quoted in Romans 4. There Paul makes it clear that our forgiveness comes by faith, not works. Our sin is covered. Our iniquity forgiven. The blood of Jesus was shed for me, for you.
Jesus sacrificed himself to hide my sin. He hid my sin in his own body and carried it to the cross where my sin was punished by God. Jesus had no sin, but he became sin for me that I might receive his righteousness. In baptism I am clothed with Christ's righteousness. Though I have fallen short in keeping the commands of God, I am given a new start. Not a second chance to impress God. But a new life, in which I am privileged to joyfully live for God.
Jesus tells us to forgive others as he has forgiven us. In fact, we even pray as much in the Lord's Prayer. 1 Peter 4:8 uses the language of this psalm to remind us to forgive others. Peter says, "Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins." You don't have to shed your blood to cover another's sins. In fact, it wouldn't work even if you tried. But the love of Christ covers sin. And his love is displayed through you. Therefore, we are to forgive others who sin against us. And we are joyful and eager to do so. We remember the burning guilt caused by our own sin. We remember that others are suffering from their own mistakes. And we remember that we then have the power to extend Christ's forgiveness to them. What a privilege!
Ask Yourself:
Am I familiar with the burning guilt?
If not, do I really take God's commands seriously? If yes, what do I do about it?
Am I eager to forgive those who sin against me? Am I eager to speak God's forgiveness to those burdened with guilt?
Pray:
Pray the Lord's Prayer today.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Genesis 35
Read Psalm 32
Have you ever had the guilt burn inside of you? Your ears feel hot, your stomach sour, your chest feel burdened? King David has. He describes the feeling eloquently, "When I kept silent, my bones wasted away."
David knew the horrid guilt. But he also knew the forgiveness. And if King David, a leader of a nation, and a role model for a country can fall, and yet rise up again in God's forgiveness, than I too can confess my sin and be forgiven.
What a joy it is to know that my forgiveness is not something I earn, but is given by God. This Psalm is quoted in Romans 4. There Paul makes it clear that our forgiveness comes by faith, not works. Our sin is covered. Our iniquity forgiven. The blood of Jesus was shed for me, for you.
Jesus sacrificed himself to hide my sin. He hid my sin in his own body and carried it to the cross where my sin was punished by God. Jesus had no sin, but he became sin for me that I might receive his righteousness. In baptism I am clothed with Christ's righteousness. Though I have fallen short in keeping the commands of God, I am given a new start. Not a second chance to impress God. But a new life, in which I am privileged to joyfully live for God.
Jesus tells us to forgive others as he has forgiven us. In fact, we even pray as much in the Lord's Prayer. 1 Peter 4:8 uses the language of this psalm to remind us to forgive others. Peter says, "Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins." You don't have to shed your blood to cover another's sins. In fact, it wouldn't work even if you tried. But the love of Christ covers sin. And his love is displayed through you. Therefore, we are to forgive others who sin against us. And we are joyful and eager to do so. We remember the burning guilt caused by our own sin. We remember that others are suffering from their own mistakes. And we remember that we then have the power to extend Christ's forgiveness to them. What a privilege!
Ask Yourself:
Am I familiar with the burning guilt?
If not, do I really take God's commands seriously? If yes, what do I do about it?
Am I eager to forgive those who sin against me? Am I eager to speak God's forgiveness to those burdened with guilt?
Pray:
Pray the Lord's Prayer today.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Saturday, October 17, 2009
In His Hands
Jesus cried out from the cross as he was dying the words of Psalm 31:5 "Into your hand I commit my spirit." If our Savior can pray this Psalm in the midst of death, then we can certainly learn to pray it in the midst of life. May God bless our study.
Read Psalm 31
When David wrote this psalm he was in dire need. There are enemies, plots, evil plans, reproaches, and all kinds of unpleasantness. David cites specifically a time when he was in a besieged city, thinking that his time was at an end. But it was not the case. God was strong to rescue and save.
And so a few times in this psalm, as David is rejoicing over God his rock, refuge, and fortress, he declares that he is in God's hands. It is an expression that is extremely comforting to David. David commits his spirit into God's hands. David declares that his times are in God's hands. God's hands have fashioned the universe. They are strong and powerful. There is great security, comfort, and protection in God's hands.
We too are in God's hands, safe and sound. Unfortunately it does not mean that we will not suffer afflictions in this life. However, we know that when we are in God's hands, no enemy can truly hurt us. Though they hurt, harm, and kill the body, they cannot destroy the soul. In fact, they can only temporarily destroy the body, because it will be raised perfected and glorified on the Last Day because of Christ.
My times are in my hands. What awaits me today? The Lord only knows. I don't. I can sit and worry and be afraid over what might happen, or I can commit myself into the Lord's hands.
Jesus says in John 10, "27My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one."
Jesus' hands were stretched out and pierced for us. They still bear the scars, scars that are made beautiful by his love. Those are the hands that hold us. Though wickedness may hurt and harm us sometimes (poor Dinah has a terrible time in our Genesis reading today), we know that ultimately no human, no enemy, no devil can drag us to hell. We are God's precious children. We are safe in his hands. And any hurt caused to us in this life can be healed by him - if not completely in this life, then perfectly in the next.
Lord, into your hands I commit my spirit. Amen.
Read Genesis 34
I don't think I will make too many comments about this reading. It is an interesting narrative story. It is God's Word. But some of God's Word lends itself to devotional thought better than other parts.
I think all I'll say is that I am thankful that we have a God of love and a God of justice. Sometimes in our limited and sinful minds we are confused or even upset by how God chooses to hand out love or justice. But we must remember that his ways are not our ways.
So in this story, there is rape, and the men of the city die for it. There is murder, yet God offers protection for Jacob (as we'll see clearly declared in the next chapter). What do we make of all if it?
Well, this is a story that is descriptive, not prescriptive. In other words, this story tells us what happened, not what we are to do. God's Word is not instructing us to take revenge here. I think this is another example of man taking matters into his own hands. But let us remember that revenge belongs to the Lord, and that all things are in his hands. Therefore we return to this: "Into your hands I commit my spirit." "My times are in his hands."
Ask Yourself:
Do I picture myself safe in the Lord's hands when in times of trouble?
Do I take revenge into my own hands, or leave vengeance up to God?
Who within my circle of influence needs me to tell them that they are safe in the Lord's hands?
Pray:
We pray a hymn about Jesus' seven words from the cross. These verses are about Jesus crying "Into your hands I commit my spirit." May we cry the same thing.
Jesus, all Your labor vast,
All Your woe and conflict past,
Yielding up Your soul at last:
Hear us, holy Jesus.
When the death shades round us low'r,
Guard us from the tempter's pow'r,
Keep us in that trial hour:
Hear us, holy Jesus.
May Your life and death supply
Grace to live and grace to die,
Grace to reach the home on high:
Hear us, holy Jesus.
(LSB 447:19-21, Public Domain)
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
S. D. G.
Read Psalm 31
When David wrote this psalm he was in dire need. There are enemies, plots, evil plans, reproaches, and all kinds of unpleasantness. David cites specifically a time when he was in a besieged city, thinking that his time was at an end. But it was not the case. God was strong to rescue and save.
And so a few times in this psalm, as David is rejoicing over God his rock, refuge, and fortress, he declares that he is in God's hands. It is an expression that is extremely comforting to David. David commits his spirit into God's hands. David declares that his times are in God's hands. God's hands have fashioned the universe. They are strong and powerful. There is great security, comfort, and protection in God's hands.
We too are in God's hands, safe and sound. Unfortunately it does not mean that we will not suffer afflictions in this life. However, we know that when we are in God's hands, no enemy can truly hurt us. Though they hurt, harm, and kill the body, they cannot destroy the soul. In fact, they can only temporarily destroy the body, because it will be raised perfected and glorified on the Last Day because of Christ.
My times are in my hands. What awaits me today? The Lord only knows. I don't. I can sit and worry and be afraid over what might happen, or I can commit myself into the Lord's hands.
Jesus says in John 10, "27My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one."
Jesus' hands were stretched out and pierced for us. They still bear the scars, scars that are made beautiful by his love. Those are the hands that hold us. Though wickedness may hurt and harm us sometimes (poor Dinah has a terrible time in our Genesis reading today), we know that ultimately no human, no enemy, no devil can drag us to hell. We are God's precious children. We are safe in his hands. And any hurt caused to us in this life can be healed by him - if not completely in this life, then perfectly in the next.
Lord, into your hands I commit my spirit. Amen.
Read Genesis 34
I don't think I will make too many comments about this reading. It is an interesting narrative story. It is God's Word. But some of God's Word lends itself to devotional thought better than other parts.
I think all I'll say is that I am thankful that we have a God of love and a God of justice. Sometimes in our limited and sinful minds we are confused or even upset by how God chooses to hand out love or justice. But we must remember that his ways are not our ways.
So in this story, there is rape, and the men of the city die for it. There is murder, yet God offers protection for Jacob (as we'll see clearly declared in the next chapter). What do we make of all if it?
Well, this is a story that is descriptive, not prescriptive. In other words, this story tells us what happened, not what we are to do. God's Word is not instructing us to take revenge here. I think this is another example of man taking matters into his own hands. But let us remember that revenge belongs to the Lord, and that all things are in his hands. Therefore we return to this: "Into your hands I commit my spirit." "My times are in his hands."
Ask Yourself:
Do I picture myself safe in the Lord's hands when in times of trouble?
Do I take revenge into my own hands, or leave vengeance up to God?
Who within my circle of influence needs me to tell them that they are safe in the Lord's hands?
Pray:
We pray a hymn about Jesus' seven words from the cross. These verses are about Jesus crying "Into your hands I commit my spirit." May we cry the same thing.
Jesus, all Your labor vast,
All Your woe and conflict past,
Yielding up Your soul at last:
Hear us, holy Jesus.
When the death shades round us low'r,
Guard us from the tempter's pow'r,
Keep us in that trial hour:
Hear us, holy Jesus.
May Your life and death supply
Grace to live and grace to die,
Grace to reach the home on high:
Hear us, holy Jesus.
(LSB 447:19-21, Public Domain)
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
S. D. G.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Another Piece of Land
Welcome again to this Bible study tool. I am finding this commitment to study God's Word extremely beneficial to me. If others (you) find it helpful too, then praise God! Please always encourage others around you to be disciplined in studying the Word of God. There is life in the Scriptures! Now, to our study.
Read Psalm 30
Quote from Luther: "The 30th psalm is a psalm of thanks in which the psalmist gives thanks that God has redeemed him from the high spiritual afflictions of the devil, which are sadness, depression, terror, despair, doubt, the perils of death, and similar poisonous, fiery darts of the devil. Nevertheless, the psalmist knows he has the comfort that God is only angry for a blink of an eye and neither desires nor wills our death or distress but desires rather to see us live and be joyful." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
Read Genesis 33
Jacob finally meets Esau, the one he has tricked out of the birthright and the blessing. But amazingly, we see maturity and growth in Esau as well as in Jacob. The two are reconciled. This story brings me great hope as I see siblings or parents or spouses engaged in conflict. God is able to heal those wounds. In this case, he healed the wound of Jacob and Esau by providing abundantly for them so that they were exceedingly content with what they had. Also, he made Jacob repentant so that he desired to pay back Esau with the generous gift.
It is said that "time heals all wounds." However, time can also make them fester and grow worse. No. What is able to heal all wounds is the grace of God. His forgiveness, and his strength.
Then we see Jacob settle in front of the city of Shechem. So far the promised people have owned nothing in the Promised Land except a tomb. Now Jacob buys some land, not for a grave, but for living and dwelling. He names the place in honor of the Lord. The place of the name, "God, the God of Israel," will stand as a reminder to his descendants exactly who it is who blesses them, provides for their needs of body and soul, and shepherds them each day.
How interesting it would be if our houses, subdivisions, and cities were named in honor of the Lord's provision. What a reminder! But even if they are not named in this way, I hope we can always remember that it is the Lord who has been with us, who has blessed us and given us all we have, and promises to protect and provide for us throughout this life. Yes, the God of Israel is my God, and his Anointed Christ shall bring me into my Promised Land.
Ask Yourself:
How can I rely on God's grace more as I seek to mend broken relationships?
How can I remind myself to pray for those in conflict, that God would soften their hearts to repent, forgive, love, and be reconciled?
Do I thank God everyday, recognizing that all I have is from his hand?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Pray for the relationships in your life that are strained. Pray that God would help you to forgive. Pray that God would soften the hearts of others that they would forgive you. Pray for those you care about who are suffering from the hurt of another. Pray that God's grace would heal all wounds. Then thank God that he is providing.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 30
Quote from Luther: "The 30th psalm is a psalm of thanks in which the psalmist gives thanks that God has redeemed him from the high spiritual afflictions of the devil, which are sadness, depression, terror, despair, doubt, the perils of death, and similar poisonous, fiery darts of the devil. Nevertheless, the psalmist knows he has the comfort that God is only angry for a blink of an eye and neither desires nor wills our death or distress but desires rather to see us live and be joyful." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
Read Genesis 33
Jacob finally meets Esau, the one he has tricked out of the birthright and the blessing. But amazingly, we see maturity and growth in Esau as well as in Jacob. The two are reconciled. This story brings me great hope as I see siblings or parents or spouses engaged in conflict. God is able to heal those wounds. In this case, he healed the wound of Jacob and Esau by providing abundantly for them so that they were exceedingly content with what they had. Also, he made Jacob repentant so that he desired to pay back Esau with the generous gift.
It is said that "time heals all wounds." However, time can also make them fester and grow worse. No. What is able to heal all wounds is the grace of God. His forgiveness, and his strength.
Then we see Jacob settle in front of the city of Shechem. So far the promised people have owned nothing in the Promised Land except a tomb. Now Jacob buys some land, not for a grave, but for living and dwelling. He names the place in honor of the Lord. The place of the name, "God, the God of Israel," will stand as a reminder to his descendants exactly who it is who blesses them, provides for their needs of body and soul, and shepherds them each day.
How interesting it would be if our houses, subdivisions, and cities were named in honor of the Lord's provision. What a reminder! But even if they are not named in this way, I hope we can always remember that it is the Lord who has been with us, who has blessed us and given us all we have, and promises to protect and provide for us throughout this life. Yes, the God of Israel is my God, and his Anointed Christ shall bring me into my Promised Land.
Ask Yourself:
How can I rely on God's grace more as I seek to mend broken relationships?
How can I remind myself to pray for those in conflict, that God would soften their hearts to repent, forgive, love, and be reconciled?
Do I thank God everyday, recognizing that all I have is from his hand?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Pray for the relationships in your life that are strained. Pray that God would help you to forgive. Pray that God would soften the hearts of others that they would forgive you. Pray for those you care about who are suffering from the hurt of another. Pray that God's grace would heal all wounds. Then thank God that he is providing.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Wrestling
We begin with a praise psalm that glorifies God for his power and strength. It speaks of the voice of God which does great things. Today we hear his voice as we read his Word. May that power work in us to strengthen faith and motivate holy living!
Read Psalm 29
Read Genesis 32
Today Jacob shows great faith, great wisdom, and great tenacity.
We see Jacob's faith because he is terrified of his brother Esau, yet he prays to God and asks for his protection. He humbly admits that he is not worthy of all God's loving-kindness to him (a great prayer for the believer, by the way). Then he boldly quotes God's promises back to him, saying, "You said..." God is pleased when we quote his promises back to him because this is an act of faith. We are bold to ask, and we are bold to hold God to his promise, not because we have any right to demand from God on our own, but because God's Word is faithful and true. It is God's nature not to lie. Therefore, we do well to be bold in prayer, quoting God's promises back to him. I heard a story about Melanchthon becoming terribly sick, and Luther wrestled in prayer, pleading with God and telling him that God would have to heal Melanchthon if Luther was going to keep on believing all the promises that God had given him. Are we so bold?
Jacob also showed great wisdom in being willing to part with flock and possessions in order to save the lives of his family and to repair a shattered relationship with Esau. I wonder if we are as eager to make things right that we should give such generous gifts. Now, I know Jacob had some extra motivation because he feared for the lives of his family members, but still, it is remarkable. Jacob sends his family at the end of the procession, and waits to go over toward Esau the next day.
That's when we see Jacob's tenacity. We read this well known, yet still mysterious account of a man showing up out of nowhere and wrestling with Jacob. We learn that this man is God from the name he gives Jacob, and from the name Jacob gives that place, and from the hip being dislocated by only a touch.
But what should we make of that account? Well, we've often heard it said that we should "wrestle with God in prayer." Certainly prayer is a part of it. But I like to think of it more that we should tenaciously cling to God in faith expecting his blessing. What does such a clinging in faith look like? It looks like prayer that is persistent and trusting. It looks like gladly hearing God's Word and expecting that Word to forgive, strengthen, and comfort us. It looks like trusting in God, even when it seems like God is out to pin us down. It looks like relying on God, even if touches and dislocates parts of us and we face health problems, financial problems, and hardships of all kinds.
We can learn a lot from Jacob. He has come a long way in his faith walk. And now he is Israel. That word for now will refer to the man Jacob. In the future it will sometimes refer to Jacob and sometimes to the nation. God is at work. God is faithful.
Ask Yourself:
How can I, like Jacob, have great faith to hold God to his promises?
How can I, like Jacob, have great wisdom and do what it takes to mend relationships?
How can I, like Jacob, find the tenacity each and every day to rely on God?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Boldly tell God about your current situation. Remind yourself that God is a God of love and power. Ask him to help you in every need. Pray for your loved ones who are also in need. Wrestle in prayer on their behalf.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 29
Read Genesis 32
Today Jacob shows great faith, great wisdom, and great tenacity.
We see Jacob's faith because he is terrified of his brother Esau, yet he prays to God and asks for his protection. He humbly admits that he is not worthy of all God's loving-kindness to him (a great prayer for the believer, by the way). Then he boldly quotes God's promises back to him, saying, "You said..." God is pleased when we quote his promises back to him because this is an act of faith. We are bold to ask, and we are bold to hold God to his promise, not because we have any right to demand from God on our own, but because God's Word is faithful and true. It is God's nature not to lie. Therefore, we do well to be bold in prayer, quoting God's promises back to him. I heard a story about Melanchthon becoming terribly sick, and Luther wrestled in prayer, pleading with God and telling him that God would have to heal Melanchthon if Luther was going to keep on believing all the promises that God had given him. Are we so bold?
Jacob also showed great wisdom in being willing to part with flock and possessions in order to save the lives of his family and to repair a shattered relationship with Esau. I wonder if we are as eager to make things right that we should give such generous gifts. Now, I know Jacob had some extra motivation because he feared for the lives of his family members, but still, it is remarkable. Jacob sends his family at the end of the procession, and waits to go over toward Esau the next day.
That's when we see Jacob's tenacity. We read this well known, yet still mysterious account of a man showing up out of nowhere and wrestling with Jacob. We learn that this man is God from the name he gives Jacob, and from the name Jacob gives that place, and from the hip being dislocated by only a touch.
But what should we make of that account? Well, we've often heard it said that we should "wrestle with God in prayer." Certainly prayer is a part of it. But I like to think of it more that we should tenaciously cling to God in faith expecting his blessing. What does such a clinging in faith look like? It looks like prayer that is persistent and trusting. It looks like gladly hearing God's Word and expecting that Word to forgive, strengthen, and comfort us. It looks like trusting in God, even when it seems like God is out to pin us down. It looks like relying on God, even if touches and dislocates parts of us and we face health problems, financial problems, and hardships of all kinds.
We can learn a lot from Jacob. He has come a long way in his faith walk. And now he is Israel. That word for now will refer to the man Jacob. In the future it will sometimes refer to Jacob and sometimes to the nation. God is at work. God is faithful.
Ask Yourself:
How can I, like Jacob, have great faith to hold God to his promises?
How can I, like Jacob, have great wisdom and do what it takes to mend relationships?
How can I, like Jacob, find the tenacity each and every day to rely on God?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Boldly tell God about your current situation. Remind yourself that God is a God of love and power. Ask him to help you in every need. Pray for your loved ones who are also in need. Wrestle in prayer on their behalf.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Divine Intervention
May our words and the meditation of our hearts be acceptable to you, O Lord!
Read Psalm 28
This Psalm is another prayer for God's help and protection. David cries out in fear. One commentary summarizes this psalm this way: "In this psalm...the fear of being reckoned with the wicked and cast away, perhaps by a premature death, is very strong. But the answer is clear, and the singer takes courage to ask a similar deliverance for the people as a whole." (Kidner, Psalms 1-72, Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries).
David cries out for God to hear. David asks God to triumph over his enemies. Then in verses 6 and 7, we hear David's wonderful faith shining through. In the same psalm where David cries out in fear he also boasts confidently that God has heard, that God helps, that God is his strength and shield. David then thanks him. I wonder if when we cry out in fear we can cry out in faith in the same breath?
Then David, as the king of Israel, is also concerned for the people under his care. He is convinced that God will bless not just him, but also the people. He calls on God to shepherd them tenderly. David, once a shepherd boy, who now as king shepherds people, asks God the Good Shepherd to protect, to lead, to provide, and to watch over the flock. We are included in that flock through Jesus Christ. So David prays (and we also pray) in this psalm that God would shepherd us and carry us forever too! Thanks be to God!
Read Genesis 31
There is no doubt that God has blessed Jacob. There has obviously been a little time lag between the last chapter and this one, because now we hear that Laban has changed the wages 10 times. Unfortunately for Laban, he could never win. God's will was to prosper and bless Jacob. When God chooses to bless, nothing can get in his way.
God intervened in Jacob's life. Though the family situation was somewhat dysfunctional, God saw the faithful toil and labor of Jacob, and decided it was enough. He instructed Jacob to return to his father's household. And when Laban pursued him in a fury, God intervened in a dream and sternly warned Laban to let Jacob go, saying nothing to him. Well, Laban did make sure he let Jacob know how he felt, but in the end let him go.
This chapter sets us up for the next incredible chapter, a chapter where Jacob is painted in a better light. He had deceived, and had been the victim of deception, but tomorrow we will see Jacob's faith and repentant heart shining brightly.
But this is only possible because of Divine intervention. God was pleased to bless him. God was pleased to keep his promise to Jacob. God is faithful and loving. And as a result, all the world is blessed through Jacob, through the Messiah that would come through him.
Ask Yourself:
When I am afraid, where do I go for comfort? Do I look to the Lord as often as I should?
When I cry out in fear to the Lord, am I also confident of God's protection? How can Psalm 28 be a tool to help me trust?
Where do I see Divine intervention in my life?
Pray:
Psalm 28:8-9
The LORD is the strength of his people;
he is the saving refuge of his anointed.
Oh, save your people and bless your heritage!
Be their shepherd and carry them forever.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 28
This Psalm is another prayer for God's help and protection. David cries out in fear. One commentary summarizes this psalm this way: "In this psalm...the fear of being reckoned with the wicked and cast away, perhaps by a premature death, is very strong. But the answer is clear, and the singer takes courage to ask a similar deliverance for the people as a whole." (Kidner, Psalms 1-72, Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries).
David cries out for God to hear. David asks God to triumph over his enemies. Then in verses 6 and 7, we hear David's wonderful faith shining through. In the same psalm where David cries out in fear he also boasts confidently that God has heard, that God helps, that God is his strength and shield. David then thanks him. I wonder if when we cry out in fear we can cry out in faith in the same breath?
Then David, as the king of Israel, is also concerned for the people under his care. He is convinced that God will bless not just him, but also the people. He calls on God to shepherd them tenderly. David, once a shepherd boy, who now as king shepherds people, asks God the Good Shepherd to protect, to lead, to provide, and to watch over the flock. We are included in that flock through Jesus Christ. So David prays (and we also pray) in this psalm that God would shepherd us and carry us forever too! Thanks be to God!
Read Genesis 31
There is no doubt that God has blessed Jacob. There has obviously been a little time lag between the last chapter and this one, because now we hear that Laban has changed the wages 10 times. Unfortunately for Laban, he could never win. God's will was to prosper and bless Jacob. When God chooses to bless, nothing can get in his way.
God intervened in Jacob's life. Though the family situation was somewhat dysfunctional, God saw the faithful toil and labor of Jacob, and decided it was enough. He instructed Jacob to return to his father's household. And when Laban pursued him in a fury, God intervened in a dream and sternly warned Laban to let Jacob go, saying nothing to him. Well, Laban did make sure he let Jacob know how he felt, but in the end let him go.
This chapter sets us up for the next incredible chapter, a chapter where Jacob is painted in a better light. He had deceived, and had been the victim of deception, but tomorrow we will see Jacob's faith and repentant heart shining brightly.
But this is only possible because of Divine intervention. God was pleased to bless him. God was pleased to keep his promise to Jacob. God is faithful and loving. And as a result, all the world is blessed through Jacob, through the Messiah that would come through him.
Ask Yourself:
When I am afraid, where do I go for comfort? Do I look to the Lord as often as I should?
When I cry out in fear to the Lord, am I also confident of God's protection? How can Psalm 28 be a tool to help me trust?
Where do I see Divine intervention in my life?
Pray:
Psalm 28:8-9
The LORD is the strength of his people;
he is the saving refuge of his anointed.
Oh, save your people and bless your heritage!
Be their shepherd and carry them forever.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Light and Salvation
Lord God, bless your Word as I study it today. Make it a word of power and peace for my troubled heart. May Your Word pass from my eyes to my heart, from my heart to my lips, and from my lips to my life that, as You have promised, Your Word may achieve the purpose for which You send it; through Jesus Christ, my Lord. Amen.
Today we read our Psalm and our Genesis chapter in the opposite order of normal.
Lest any man's sinful nature tempt him to think of Jacob as a lucky man, climbing into bed over and over again with 4 different women, consider the headache and heartache of that house! The constant bickering, the fierce competition, the grieving, and anger, and the hurt. The sisters, it seems, are full of hate and rivalry. And not to put all the blame on them. It seems Jacob does little or nothing to promote peace in the house. Rather he is led to think with his hormones instead of his heart.
And so we see that God works in spite of us on many occasions. Is this the only way Jacob could have become a multitude? Most certainly not! But this is the course of action that sinners chose. And this is what God has to work with.
And God did choose to work with Jacob, didn't he? God continues to bless, and he provides 12 sons that would become the 12 tribes of Israel. And also, we see God do miraculous things to provide Jacob with plenty, possessions, and prosperity. Some might criticize the Bible and declare that putting striped sticks before the flock is no way to produce sheep with spots or streaks! But the inclusion of this strange story does not show the Bible to be a child's myth, but rather it shows that God was with Jacob, providing for him in miraculous ways. Laban has tricked Jacob before, and now he tries to cheat Jacob out of the offspring of the flock. But God provides for Jacob. He is the one who receives the promise.
So too, we have bickering, rivalries, hate, anger, competition, headache and heartache in our homes as well. If not in our immediate families, then certainly in our extended families and in our church families. We do so little to promote peace, and rather give into our short-fused emotions.
Yet, we are still children of the promise. By faith we are heirs of the promise with Abraham. We are baptized into God's family, being now his sons and daughters - siblings of Jesus Christ. God continues to provide for us and bless us, sometimes in ordinary ways, sometimes in extraordinary ways as he did for Jacob.
Are you seeing a theme throughout Genesis? God is gracious. God is merciful. God is faithful to keep his promise even when sinners do all they can to mess things up. God does the same for you. He certainly does the same for me. Thanks be to God.
I love this psalm! We have no need to fear enemies, even if an army encamps around us! And at times it certainly seems like the Devil has us surrounded. But the Lord hides us under his cover. He lifts us up out of the mire. He places us upon a rock, a solid foundation. That rock is Christ.
How I delight to learn God's ways, to be in his household of faith, to inquire in his temple (a.k.a. - place where he comes down to meet me in grace - in church!). Though it is hard for me to wait for the Lord, I am reminded twice in the last verse of the psalm that I should be patient, wait for him to work, and to trust.
The Lord is my light and salvation. Indeed, Jesus says, "I am the Light of the world!" And so our closing prayer will be from (another) one of my favorite hymns. It is an Epiphany hymn that praises Jesus for being this Light that shines in the darkness. The author of the text and tune is Philipp Nicolai. The tune to this hymn, and another tune he wrote (Wachet Auf) are considered the King and Queen of chorales (I forget which is which). And as great as the tune is, the text is even better. And it is for the glory of God.
Ask Yourself:
What do I do to promote peace in my immediate family? Extended family? Church family?
How do I contribute to the competition, bitterness, headache, and heartache of others?
How does Christ shine in my darkness? How can I shine (reflect) his light to others as well?
Pray:
O Morning Star, how fair and bright!
You shine with God's own truth and light,
Aglow with grace and mercy!
Of Jacob's race, King David's son,
Our Lord and master, You have won
Our hearts to serve You only!
Lowly, holy!
Great and glorious,
All victorious,
Rich in blessing!
Rule and might o'er all possessing!
Come, heav'nly Bridegroom, Light divine,
And deep within our hearts now shine;
There light a flame undying!
In Your one body let us be
As living branches of a tree,
Your life our lives supplying.
Now, though daily
Earth's deep sadness
May perplex us
And distress us,
Yet with heav'nly joy You bless us.
(LSB 395:1-2)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Innocence or Deception?
May God bless us as we read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest his Word today!
Read Psalm 26
In Psalm 25 we confessed our guilt to the Lord. Now in Psalm 26 we ask God to test us, search us, and see if there is any sin in us. We declare that we have integrity, that we do not waver in our faith, and that we are innocent. This would be an impossible prayer for us to pray if our Christ had not prayed it for us, and then redeemed us with his love.
This is a worship psalm. Notice the references to the altar and the Lord's house, the place of his glory. And what a joy it was for me yesterday to be in God's house, to hear my sin confronted (yes, even that is a joy for the redeemed though it is painful), to hear of God's love and my sins forgiven. Amen! What a joy for me to sing his praises and to direct my prayers to the God of power and love. What a privilege for me to kneel at the altar and receive the very body and blood of Christ to renew God's forgiveness, and to strengthen me as I try to do better this week.
I can really relate to verse 8 of the psalm. How I love the habitation of God's house! In the service of matins we chant this verse while the liturgist chants additional prayers. And what a fitting verse it is for us: " O LORD, I love the habitation of your house and the place where your glory dwells."
Read Genesis 29
In the Psalm we had proclaimed our innocence (because of Christ), but in Genesis we now see that Jacob the deceiver is himself deceived. After he tricks Esau out of his birthright and his blessing, Jacob is tricked into working an extra 7 years for Laban. In the end it will hurt Laban, but for now it is a frustration for Jacob, and a seed of dysfunction in the family.
Poor Leah has 3 boys, and each time she hopes that it will make her husband love her more than her sister. He never will. But when she gives birth to her fourth son, perhaps there is a bit of an attitude change. The first 3 boys she names in the hopes that Jacob will love her. The fourth boy she names in thanksgiving to the Lord.
This fourth boy is Judah. He is the one who will carry the Messianic promise. After him, God's faithful people will sometimes be referred to as "Judah." God's promises are faithful and true. A Savior will be born.
We also see finally some fruitfulness in Abraham's line. Abraham had one son of the promise (barely), and Isaac had two sons, and now Jacob will have 12. The first four are born in our reading today. We will see the others born soon. These will be the 12 patriarchs of the 12 tribes. Indeed, God is keeping his promise (even in the midst of dysfunction) and making Abraham a great multitude.
Ask Yourself:
Am I joyful to go to church, knowing that there God speaks to me an delivers his grace to me?
Do I deceive others, even in little ways?
Do I feel confident declaring my innocence before God? Do I see myself as perfectly forgiven and righteous because of Christ?
Pray:
Lord Jesus, abide with us in these latter evil days. Grant to Your Church true shepherds and faithful pastors who preach your Word in its purity, and who lead us in the way of truth. Preserve our souls from being deluded by worldly wisdom and the teaching of men who walk after their own thoughts, and keep us steadfast in Your Word to our end. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 26
In Psalm 25 we confessed our guilt to the Lord. Now in Psalm 26 we ask God to test us, search us, and see if there is any sin in us. We declare that we have integrity, that we do not waver in our faith, and that we are innocent. This would be an impossible prayer for us to pray if our Christ had not prayed it for us, and then redeemed us with his love.
This is a worship psalm. Notice the references to the altar and the Lord's house, the place of his glory. And what a joy it was for me yesterday to be in God's house, to hear my sin confronted (yes, even that is a joy for the redeemed though it is painful), to hear of God's love and my sins forgiven. Amen! What a joy for me to sing his praises and to direct my prayers to the God of power and love. What a privilege for me to kneel at the altar and receive the very body and blood of Christ to renew God's forgiveness, and to strengthen me as I try to do better this week.
I can really relate to verse 8 of the psalm. How I love the habitation of God's house! In the service of matins we chant this verse while the liturgist chants additional prayers. And what a fitting verse it is for us: " O LORD, I love the habitation of your house and the place where your glory dwells."
Read Genesis 29
In the Psalm we had proclaimed our innocence (because of Christ), but in Genesis we now see that Jacob the deceiver is himself deceived. After he tricks Esau out of his birthright and his blessing, Jacob is tricked into working an extra 7 years for Laban. In the end it will hurt Laban, but for now it is a frustration for Jacob, and a seed of dysfunction in the family.
Poor Leah has 3 boys, and each time she hopes that it will make her husband love her more than her sister. He never will. But when she gives birth to her fourth son, perhaps there is a bit of an attitude change. The first 3 boys she names in the hopes that Jacob will love her. The fourth boy she names in thanksgiving to the Lord.
This fourth boy is Judah. He is the one who will carry the Messianic promise. After him, God's faithful people will sometimes be referred to as "Judah." God's promises are faithful and true. A Savior will be born.
We also see finally some fruitfulness in Abraham's line. Abraham had one son of the promise (barely), and Isaac had two sons, and now Jacob will have 12. The first four are born in our reading today. We will see the others born soon. These will be the 12 patriarchs of the 12 tribes. Indeed, God is keeping his promise (even in the midst of dysfunction) and making Abraham a great multitude.
Ask Yourself:
Am I joyful to go to church, knowing that there God speaks to me an delivers his grace to me?
Do I deceive others, even in little ways?
Do I feel confident declaring my innocence before God? Do I see myself as perfectly forgiven and righteous because of Christ?
Pray:
Lord Jesus, abide with us in these latter evil days. Grant to Your Church true shepherds and faithful pastors who preach your Word in its purity, and who lead us in the way of truth. Preserve our souls from being deluded by worldly wisdom and the teaching of men who walk after their own thoughts, and keep us steadfast in Your Word to our end. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Saturday, October 10, 2009
House of God - Bethel
Read Psalm 25
Quote from Luther: "The 25th psalm is a psalm of prayer in which the righteous pray that God will make them godly, forgive their sins, guard them from sin and shame, and finally deliver them from all enemies and all evil. Along with this the psalm mocks the false, self-centered spirits and teachers." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
Read Genesis 28
Pray:
O Lord, our most merciful Father in heaven, be gracious to us and forgive us our sins. Rule in our hearts by Your Spirit, that we may hate and forsake all manner of evil. Restrain our enemies who would deprive us of our salvation, and be to us, and Your whole Church on earth, a very present help in time of need. Amen.
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
S.D.G.
Quote from Luther: "The 25th psalm is a psalm of prayer in which the righteous pray that God will make them godly, forgive their sins, guard them from sin and shame, and finally deliver them from all enemies and all evil. Along with this the psalm mocks the false, self-centered spirits and teachers." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
Read Genesis 28
Pray:
O Lord, our most merciful Father in heaven, be gracious to us and forgive us our sins. Rule in our hearts by Your Spirit, that we may hate and forsake all manner of evil. Restrain our enemies who would deprive us of our salvation, and be to us, and Your whole Church on earth, a very present help in time of need. Amen.
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
S.D.G.
Friday, October 9, 2009
The Advent King
The weather is turning cold. Trees are changing, some already dropping leaves. This is the time of year a pastor has to start thinking about Advent, if he hasn't already. I always get excited for Advent and Christmas about mid-October - partly because I am immersed in it already in worship planning, but also because I can't wait to crack open the front part of the hymnal and sing those Advent and Christmas hymns!
The Psalm today speaks of our Advent King. Our Genesis reading is a very captivating narrative story that (although long) is a quick and easy read. It tells us of the bloodline of the Messianic Advent King. So, to our study!
Read Psalm 24
This Psalm always gets me excited for Advent, because when I hear/read the words I also hear Handel's Messiah, or the great Lutheran hymn "LIft Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates," (quoted in part below). And what are these gates, the ancient doors? A common interpretation (and one that I believe is helpful) is that these are the doors of our hearts. Our hymn explains:
Fling wide the portals of your heart;
Make it a temple set apart
From earthly use for heav'n's employ,
Adorned with prayer and love and joy.
So shall your Sov'reign enter in
And new and nobler life begin.
To God alone be praise
For word and deed and grace!
(LSB 341:4, Public Domain)
Advent texts (in Scripture and in hymns) apply largely both to Christ's first coming and his second coming. So when we hear of the coming reign of our God, we prepare and rejoice to celebrate his first coming. A humble king, he came to suffer and die that he might break the backbone of Satan. He died and rose that Death might die. He rose and ascended to rule over his people, forgiving our sin and strengthening us to live in his Kingdom loyally and faithfully.
We also think of his coming again, and we long and look forward to that day. Satan's power is broken now, but when Christ comes again Satan will be thrown into the eternal lake of fire. Now death has no sting, but when Christ comes again, our bodies will never be sick and will never die again. Now, sin's dominion is shaken, but when Christ comes again we will be rid of our sinful nature and will dwell in perfect peace and love with God and with others.
Do you understand why I love Advent? A focus on Christ's birth, life, death, and resurrection; and a focus on his heavenly kingdom in which we will have perfect life without end! Therefore I pray with John in Revelation 22:20 "Come, Lord Jesus!"
Read Genesis 27
We might contemplate too much the nature of Rebekah and Jacob's sin. Did they sin in their deception? Almost certainly. But interestingly enough, the outcome was God's Will. (Not that the end justifies the means. There was almost certainly a better way for Jacob to receive the blessing).
But not dwelling on the sin and deception too much, we know that it was God's will for Jacob to receive the Messianic blessing rather than Esau. Rebekah had been told by God in the previous chapter, "The older shall serve the younger." We also hear elsewhere (In Malachi 1 and Romans 9) that God loved Jacob. Regarding God's hate for Esau, I don' wish to get into the predestination debate now. There will be plenty of opportunity for that in the future, specifically in Romans 9.
But it was God's intent for Jacob to receive the blessing of the Messiah. Through Jacob would be born the Advent King. Jacob, who would be renamed Israel, would be a multitude, and a blessing to the earth. This is fulfilled in Christ. Jesus is the King. We are part of his multitude by faith.
This interesting occurrence of the younger receiving the blessing is repeated. Amazingly enough, Jacob will bless his grandsons and will intentionally cross his right arm over to the younger, and his left to the older. Again the younger will receive the promise. (We'll see this in Genesis 48).
This just verifies that the promise comes by the grace of God, by his choice. It is not by works, not by being a certain race, not by being the eldest or by any other way of "earning" it. It is by God's grace. The promise continues. The Advent King approaches. Come, Lord Jesus!
Ask Yourself:
Do I try to dictate how God should bless me?
Do I resort to deception to accomplish what I believe is God's will?
Do I look forward to Jesus' second coming? Can I honestly pray "Come, Lord Jesus!" If I struggle with that why?
Pray:
Redeemer, come and open wide
My heart to Thee; here, Lord, abide!
O enter with Thy grace divine;
Thy face of mercy on me shine.
Thy Holy Spirit guide us on
Until our glorious goal is won.
Eternal praise and fame
We offer to Thy name.
(LSB 341:5, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
The Psalm today speaks of our Advent King. Our Genesis reading is a very captivating narrative story that (although long) is a quick and easy read. It tells us of the bloodline of the Messianic Advent King. So, to our study!
Read Psalm 24
This Psalm always gets me excited for Advent, because when I hear/read the words I also hear Handel's Messiah, or the great Lutheran hymn "LIft Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates," (quoted in part below). And what are these gates, the ancient doors? A common interpretation (and one that I believe is helpful) is that these are the doors of our hearts. Our hymn explains:
Fling wide the portals of your heart;
Make it a temple set apart
From earthly use for heav'n's employ,
Adorned with prayer and love and joy.
So shall your Sov'reign enter in
And new and nobler life begin.
To God alone be praise
For word and deed and grace!
(LSB 341:4, Public Domain)
Advent texts (in Scripture and in hymns) apply largely both to Christ's first coming and his second coming. So when we hear of the coming reign of our God, we prepare and rejoice to celebrate his first coming. A humble king, he came to suffer and die that he might break the backbone of Satan. He died and rose that Death might die. He rose and ascended to rule over his people, forgiving our sin and strengthening us to live in his Kingdom loyally and faithfully.
We also think of his coming again, and we long and look forward to that day. Satan's power is broken now, but when Christ comes again Satan will be thrown into the eternal lake of fire. Now death has no sting, but when Christ comes again, our bodies will never be sick and will never die again. Now, sin's dominion is shaken, but when Christ comes again we will be rid of our sinful nature and will dwell in perfect peace and love with God and with others.
Do you understand why I love Advent? A focus on Christ's birth, life, death, and resurrection; and a focus on his heavenly kingdom in which we will have perfect life without end! Therefore I pray with John in Revelation 22:20 "Come, Lord Jesus!"
Read Genesis 27
We might contemplate too much the nature of Rebekah and Jacob's sin. Did they sin in their deception? Almost certainly. But interestingly enough, the outcome was God's Will. (Not that the end justifies the means. There was almost certainly a better way for Jacob to receive the blessing).
But not dwelling on the sin and deception too much, we know that it was God's will for Jacob to receive the Messianic blessing rather than Esau. Rebekah had been told by God in the previous chapter, "The older shall serve the younger." We also hear elsewhere (In Malachi 1 and Romans 9) that God loved Jacob. Regarding God's hate for Esau, I don' wish to get into the predestination debate now. There will be plenty of opportunity for that in the future, specifically in Romans 9.
But it was God's intent for Jacob to receive the blessing of the Messiah. Through Jacob would be born the Advent King. Jacob, who would be renamed Israel, would be a multitude, and a blessing to the earth. This is fulfilled in Christ. Jesus is the King. We are part of his multitude by faith.
This interesting occurrence of the younger receiving the blessing is repeated. Amazingly enough, Jacob will bless his grandsons and will intentionally cross his right arm over to the younger, and his left to the older. Again the younger will receive the promise. (We'll see this in Genesis 48).
This just verifies that the promise comes by the grace of God, by his choice. It is not by works, not by being a certain race, not by being the eldest or by any other way of "earning" it. It is by God's grace. The promise continues. The Advent King approaches. Come, Lord Jesus!
Ask Yourself:
Do I try to dictate how God should bless me?
Do I resort to deception to accomplish what I believe is God's will?
Do I look forward to Jesus' second coming? Can I honestly pray "Come, Lord Jesus!" If I struggle with that why?
Pray:
Redeemer, come and open wide
My heart to Thee; here, Lord, abide!
O enter with Thy grace divine;
Thy face of mercy on me shine.
Thy Holy Spirit guide us on
Until our glorious goal is won.
Eternal praise and fame
We offer to Thy name.
(LSB 341:5, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
My Shepherd
Christ was forsaken for us, and cried out to the Father who had abandoned him on the cross. But when the suffering was completed ("It is finished!") then his Father received him again, and a Way of peace was made between man and God. Jesus, the Way, now brings us to the Father. As his baptized sons and daughters who cling to him in faith, we are Shepherded by him. We are the people of his pasture, his sheep. Sins forgiven. Hearts restored. Souls revived. Death overcome. Life eternal granted.
Read Psalm 23
Probably the most beloved psalm in the whole psalter, it is most comforting and memorable. I believe it is so near to our hearts because of the simple picture language that speaks volumes in just a few words. Think about the pictures evoked from these few words: green pastures, quiet waters, the valley of death, a table, oil, a cup, a house for our eternal dwelling. A soul in sorrow and anguish must cling to such beautiful promises. A soul in pain and agony needs these concrete and vivid images to occupy the mind, leaving no room for the Devil and his terrifying Death. Our God. The Shepherd. OUR Shepherd. MY Shepherd. Leading me, tending me, helping me, holding my hand in the valley of the shadow of death, providing for me, restoring me and giving me life. What a beautiful Psalm!
The Apostle John was one to use similar simple picture language to tell deep spiritual truths. This is why he includes Jesus' comforting I AM statements. I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life. I AM the door. I AM the Light of the world. I AM the Bread of Life. I AM the Resurrection and the Life. I AM the Vine. I AM the Alpha and Omega. I AM the Good Shepherd.
Yes, there it is in John chapter 10. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who laid down his life for the sheep. How comforting it is to know that the One who accompanies us through the valley of the shadow of death is the One who has already walked through that valley alone, who died, and who rose from the dead! Yes, I can believe him when he promises that his goodness and mercy are with me everyday and always. I can believe him when he promises that I will dwell with him forever. Therefore I fear no evil! Thanks be to God.
Read Genesis 26
Like father, like son. Isaac pulls the same "She's my sister!" trick on the same Abimelech as his father Abraham did. In addition to Isaac's sin, there are also other conflicts: squabbles between the Isaac's family and the Philistines, even though there was a covenant made between the two groups that should have prevented such mischief with the wells; Esau takes heathen wives that are a constant source of grief for Isaac and Rebekah; and another famine in the land.
But God shows that he is willing to overcome sin, strife, and suffering. Isaac and his family are provided for abundantly. They find water in the wells. The land produces 100 fold. And they find some space to settle so there won't be squabbles. In fact, the Philistines come and acknowledge that the LORD - the One True God - is with Isaac's family, and they make a covenant, again.
The Lord renews his promise to Isaac. His descendants, the Lord says, will be a multitude. And, nations of the earth will be blessed through Isaac. This is how we know for sure that Isaac carries the promise that the Messiah would come through his bloodline. Isaac believes the Lord, and shows himself to be of great faith like his father Abraham. He builds and altar and worships the Lord where he settles. When you move, you have to find a church, right?
Yes, an example of faith. But also God at work to keep his promise. That's what this chapter is about. And thanks be to God that he did keep his promise even though Israel would prove to be faithless time and time again. God is faithful, and God sent his Son Jesus to make us his little lambs, and to lead us to green pastures and still waters, yes, even to everlasting life.
I am Jesus' little lamb,
Ever glad at heart I am;
For my Shepherd gently guides me,
Knows my need and well provides me,
Loves me ev'ry day the same,
Even calls me by my name.
Day by day, at home, away,
Jesus is my staff and stay.
When I hunger, Jesus feeds me,
Into pleasant pastures leads me;
When I thirst, He bids me go
Where the quiet waters flow.
Who so happy as I am,
Even now the Shepherd's lamb?
And when my short life is ended,
By His angel host attended,
He shall fold me to His breast,
There within His arms to rest.
Ask Yourself:
God's Word is meant for our hearts, but also our minds. Do I picture these gracious promises of God in Psalm 23 when I am afraid, stressed, or troubled?
How often am I afraid, worried, or anxious? Am I forgetting that the Good Shepherd is by my side? Do I allow him to lead me?
Would I have more inner peace even in times of external conflict if I wandered and strayed less?
Pray:
Lord Jesus, who alone is that one Good Shepherd, thanks be unto You for all Your spiritual and bodily benefits. Let the Word of Your salvation dwell among us richly, and suffer not that trusty staff, the word of Your promise, to be taken from us. And when the shadow of death spreads over us, conduct us safely to the fold of the perfected saints, the tabernacle not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 23
Probably the most beloved psalm in the whole psalter, it is most comforting and memorable. I believe it is so near to our hearts because of the simple picture language that speaks volumes in just a few words. Think about the pictures evoked from these few words: green pastures, quiet waters, the valley of death, a table, oil, a cup, a house for our eternal dwelling. A soul in sorrow and anguish must cling to such beautiful promises. A soul in pain and agony needs these concrete and vivid images to occupy the mind, leaving no room for the Devil and his terrifying Death. Our God. The Shepherd. OUR Shepherd. MY Shepherd. Leading me, tending me, helping me, holding my hand in the valley of the shadow of death, providing for me, restoring me and giving me life. What a beautiful Psalm!
The Apostle John was one to use similar simple picture language to tell deep spiritual truths. This is why he includes Jesus' comforting I AM statements. I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life. I AM the door. I AM the Light of the world. I AM the Bread of Life. I AM the Resurrection and the Life. I AM the Vine. I AM the Alpha and Omega. I AM the Good Shepherd.
Yes, there it is in John chapter 10. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who laid down his life for the sheep. How comforting it is to know that the One who accompanies us through the valley of the shadow of death is the One who has already walked through that valley alone, who died, and who rose from the dead! Yes, I can believe him when he promises that his goodness and mercy are with me everyday and always. I can believe him when he promises that I will dwell with him forever. Therefore I fear no evil! Thanks be to God.
Read Genesis 26
Like father, like son. Isaac pulls the same "She's my sister!" trick on the same Abimelech as his father Abraham did. In addition to Isaac's sin, there are also other conflicts: squabbles between the Isaac's family and the Philistines, even though there was a covenant made between the two groups that should have prevented such mischief with the wells; Esau takes heathen wives that are a constant source of grief for Isaac and Rebekah; and another famine in the land.
But God shows that he is willing to overcome sin, strife, and suffering. Isaac and his family are provided for abundantly. They find water in the wells. The land produces 100 fold. And they find some space to settle so there won't be squabbles. In fact, the Philistines come and acknowledge that the LORD - the One True God - is with Isaac's family, and they make a covenant, again.
The Lord renews his promise to Isaac. His descendants, the Lord says, will be a multitude. And, nations of the earth will be blessed through Isaac. This is how we know for sure that Isaac carries the promise that the Messiah would come through his bloodline. Isaac believes the Lord, and shows himself to be of great faith like his father Abraham. He builds and altar and worships the Lord where he settles. When you move, you have to find a church, right?
Yes, an example of faith. But also God at work to keep his promise. That's what this chapter is about. And thanks be to God that he did keep his promise even though Israel would prove to be faithless time and time again. God is faithful, and God sent his Son Jesus to make us his little lambs, and to lead us to green pastures and still waters, yes, even to everlasting life.
I am Jesus' little lamb,
Ever glad at heart I am;
For my Shepherd gently guides me,
Knows my need and well provides me,
Loves me ev'ry day the same,
Even calls me by my name.
Day by day, at home, away,
Jesus is my staff and stay.
When I hunger, Jesus feeds me,
Into pleasant pastures leads me;
When I thirst, He bids me go
Where the quiet waters flow.
Who so happy as I am,
Even now the Shepherd's lamb?
And when my short life is ended,
By His angel host attended,
He shall fold me to His breast,
There within His arms to rest.
Ask Yourself:
God's Word is meant for our hearts, but also our minds. Do I picture these gracious promises of God in Psalm 23 when I am afraid, stressed, or troubled?
How often am I afraid, worried, or anxious? Am I forgetting that the Good Shepherd is by my side? Do I allow him to lead me?
Would I have more inner peace even in times of external conflict if I wandered and strayed less?
Pray:
Lord Jesus, who alone is that one Good Shepherd, thanks be unto You for all Your spiritual and bodily benefits. Let the Word of Your salvation dwell among us richly, and suffer not that trusty staff, the word of Your promise, to be taken from us. And when the shadow of death spreads over us, conduct us safely to the fold of the perfected saints, the tabernacle not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Forsaken!
Today, comments on the Genesis reading will be brief. We meditate slowly on Psalm 22. We know that David spoke these words. So in some way they were descriptive of some suffering he endured. But while some of it might be hyperbole (a poetic exaggeration) for David, it is literal for Christ. Jesus prays Psalm 22 while on the cross to show that this psalm was a prophecy of his own crucifixion. What a vivid description of the horrible (and wonderful) event. We meditate:
Read Psalm 22
Luther says: "The 22nd psalm is a prophecy of the suffering and resurrection of Christ and a prophecy of the Gospel, which the entire world shall hear and receive. Beyond all other texts, it clearly shows Christ's torment on the cross, that He was pierced hand and foot and His limbs stretched out so that His bones could have been counted. Nowhere in the other prophets can one find so clear a description. It is indeed one of the chief psalms." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
We all know Psalm 23 - probably by heart. But we must remember that we cannot pray Psalm 23, which calls God our Shepherd, unless Jesus first prays for us Psalm 22 "Why have you forsaken me?" Because Jesus was abandoned by the Father during his crucifixion, and because he died and was placed in a borrowed tomb, we know that we will rise from our own tombs.
Read Genesis 25
Abraham certainly does become a multitude. He takes another wife, who bears him many children. His first son, Ishmae,l fathers 12 sons himself. But poor Isaac, the one who bears the promise, is childless for a long time. His wife Rebekah is barren, just as his mother was. So it seems as if everyone is prospering and growing and being blessed, except the one through whom this nation is supposed to be built.
But God is not "slow" in keeping his promises. Rather, we are impatient. Rebekah bears her children, Jacob and Esau. The conflict between the two mounts already in this brief account. Their relationship will get worse before it gets better.
And so we end our Genesis reading today with the Messianic line off to a slow and conflicted start, and the great man of faith, Abraham, buried in the tomb he bought. But remember that buying that tomb was an act of faith. There many family members would be buried in that tomb, the first piece of land owned in the Promised Land. And many, many years later, another One would die and be buried in the Promised Land. But this one would rise from the dead, and would be the resurrection of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and others.
And so we see another prophecy of Psalm 22 fulfilled, "All the prosperous of the earth eat and worship; before him shall bow all who go down to the dust, even the one who could not keep himself alive." (verse 29).
And why did Luther say this Psalm was a prophecy of the Gospel? Because this Jesus - who was crucified, who could count all his bones on the cross, whose tongue stuck to the roof of his dry mouth - this Jesus would be proclaimed all over the globe as the Savior of the world. Psalm 22:27, 31 "All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations shall worship before you...they shall come and proclaim his righteousness to a people yet unborn, that he has done it." (Remember that Abraham promised that through him all families of the earth would be blessed?)
Thanks be to God, that Jesus bore the cross for me!
Ask Yourself:
What sin do I repent of today?
Can I imagine what being cut off from God would be like? Do I need to imagine it?
What can I do today to show God my thanks for his salvation?
Pray:
Today we pray some verses of the Hymn "Upon the Cross Extended" by one of my favorite hymn writers, Paul Gerhardt:
I caused Your grief and sighing By evils multiplying
As countless as the sands.
I caused the woes unnumbered With which Your soul is cumbered,
Your sorrows raised by wicked hands.
Your soul in griefs unbounded, Your head with thorns surrounded,
You died to ransom me.
The cross for me enduring, The crown for me securing,
You healed my wounds and set me free.
Your cords of love, my Savior, Bind me to You forever,
I am no longer mine.
To You I gladly tender All that my life can render
And all I have to You resign.
(LSB 453:4-6, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 22
Luther says: "The 22nd psalm is a prophecy of the suffering and resurrection of Christ and a prophecy of the Gospel, which the entire world shall hear and receive. Beyond all other texts, it clearly shows Christ's torment on the cross, that He was pierced hand and foot and His limbs stretched out so that His bones could have been counted. Nowhere in the other prophets can one find so clear a description. It is indeed one of the chief psalms." Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH.
We all know Psalm 23 - probably by heart. But we must remember that we cannot pray Psalm 23, which calls God our Shepherd, unless Jesus first prays for us Psalm 22 "Why have you forsaken me?" Because Jesus was abandoned by the Father during his crucifixion, and because he died and was placed in a borrowed tomb, we know that we will rise from our own tombs.
Read Genesis 25
Abraham certainly does become a multitude. He takes another wife, who bears him many children. His first son, Ishmae,l fathers 12 sons himself. But poor Isaac, the one who bears the promise, is childless for a long time. His wife Rebekah is barren, just as his mother was. So it seems as if everyone is prospering and growing and being blessed, except the one through whom this nation is supposed to be built.
But God is not "slow" in keeping his promises. Rather, we are impatient. Rebekah bears her children, Jacob and Esau. The conflict between the two mounts already in this brief account. Their relationship will get worse before it gets better.
And so we end our Genesis reading today with the Messianic line off to a slow and conflicted start, and the great man of faith, Abraham, buried in the tomb he bought. But remember that buying that tomb was an act of faith. There many family members would be buried in that tomb, the first piece of land owned in the Promised Land. And many, many years later, another One would die and be buried in the Promised Land. But this one would rise from the dead, and would be the resurrection of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and others.
And so we see another prophecy of Psalm 22 fulfilled, "All the prosperous of the earth eat and worship; before him shall bow all who go down to the dust, even the one who could not keep himself alive." (verse 29).
And why did Luther say this Psalm was a prophecy of the Gospel? Because this Jesus - who was crucified, who could count all his bones on the cross, whose tongue stuck to the roof of his dry mouth - this Jesus would be proclaimed all over the globe as the Savior of the world. Psalm 22:27, 31 "All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations shall worship before you...they shall come and proclaim his righteousness to a people yet unborn, that he has done it." (Remember that Abraham promised that through him all families of the earth would be blessed?)
Thanks be to God, that Jesus bore the cross for me!
Ask Yourself:
What sin do I repent of today?
Can I imagine what being cut off from God would be like? Do I need to imagine it?
What can I do today to show God my thanks for his salvation?
Pray:
Today we pray some verses of the Hymn "Upon the Cross Extended" by one of my favorite hymn writers, Paul Gerhardt:
I caused Your grief and sighing By evils multiplying
As countless as the sands.
I caused the woes unnumbered With which Your soul is cumbered,
Your sorrows raised by wicked hands.
Your soul in griefs unbounded, Your head with thorns surrounded,
You died to ransom me.
The cross for me enduring, The crown for me securing,
You healed my wounds and set me free.
Your cords of love, my Savior, Bind me to You forever,
I am no longer mine.
To You I gladly tender All that my life can render
And all I have to You resign.
(LSB 453:4-6, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
By Faith...
We're not going to read a psalm today. The next psalm in line is Psalm 22 - the Crucifixion psalm. We will want to give it lots of attention. But the Genesis 24 reading is long today. So, instead, we'll continue on in Genesis and we will also read Hebrews 11:1-19 to recap where we have been so far in Genesis. We'll meditate on Psalm 22 tomorrow. May God give us a Spirit of understanding and of wisdom!
Read Hebrews 11:1-19
Here we have a brief commentary on Genesis, seeing how faith plays into understanding all the events. The author of Hebrews begins with creation (which we believe by faith) and then praises some key figures for their faith: Abel, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Hebrews 11 says more about Isaac and Jacob, and many other characters of faith, and we will get to those in due time!
But one verse that I need to draw your attention to is verse 6: "Without faith it is impossible to please God." If God is pleased with us, it is because we believe. But without faith, we could have power, riches, good works before men, service, generosity, kindness, humanitarian activities, and all kinds of earthly righteousness, but God would not be pleased because our hearts would still be far from him. But faith recognizes that God is pleased with us because of Jesus Christ. He has righteousness before God, and he gives it to us.
So we need to remember that neither Abraham nor Sarah, neither Isaac nor Jacob, nor anyone else pleased God because of their own good works. They pleased him because they believed. And faith is ignited by the Holy Spirit. It is God's work, not ours. Faith was first given to many of us in baptism. It was given to some others first in the hearing of the Word of God (adult converts). Faith comes by hearing the message!
We are reminded that these patriarchs pleased God because of faith, not by works, every time we see a fault of one of these characters. They were sinful, fallen humans like us. But yet, God did extraordinary things through them.
Read Genesis 24
There are so many things in this account for which we could give God praise: the faith of Abraham's servant, his trusting prayer, that God answered even while the servant was still speaking, that Rebekah was beautiful inside just as she was outside, that she was ready to serve and do the Lord's will, that her family was willing to let her go because they recognized the hand of the Lord, and probably much more! It is an incredible account.
What a contrast this account is when compared to the waiting and the struggles that Abraham and Sarah had to endure. There are times when, like Abraham and Sarah, we might wonder how long we must suffer and how much we must endure until God's plans begin to move us to a different place in life where we can find relief, even happiness and rejoicing. But then there are also times in our lives when we get an answer from God much sooner than we would have imagined, and it is a gracious answer that is cause for much rejoicing!
Oh, if only all of life were like that. The servant goes, he prays, God sends Rebekah, the deal is arranged, she comes with him, she meets Isaac, he loves her, and they live happily ever after! Well, not happily ever after, actually. There are troubles ahead.
But I think sometimes in our own lives our joy is tempered by "real life." Let it not be so! Though we all know troubles are ahead of us, instead of letting those troubles hamper our joy now, let's allow the joy now to overflow within us, and let it encourage us and inspire use even throughout the times of troubles.
Yes, maybe Rebekah will be encouraged when her sons give her grief to remember how God graciously answered prayer and gave her a husband to love and care for her. Maybe she will remember that God directed her ways and in such an incredible way provided for her.
May we also give thanks to God in times of joy, and not let that joy be squashed by fear and worry. God is good. And sometimes his plans come together in an instant. May joy over his gracious work give us peace and comfort in times of waiting.
Ask Yourself:
What were some times in my life when prayers were answered instantly, and God's gracious hand was clearly visible?
What were some times in my life when I wondered if God was at work at all?
How can I use my stories of God's answered prayers in my life to encourage another who is struggling, waiting, hurting?
Pray:
Lord, Thee I love with all my heart;
I pray Thee, ne'er from me depart, With tender mercy cheer me.
Earth has no pleasure I would share.
Yea, heav'n itself were void and bare If Thou, Lord, wert not near me.
And should my heart for sorrow break,
My trust in Thee can nothing shake.
Thou art the portion I have sought;
Thy precious blood my soul has bought.
Lord Jesus Christ, my God and Lord, my God and Lord,
Forsake me not! I trust Thy Word.
(LSB 708:1, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Hebrews 11:1-19
Here we have a brief commentary on Genesis, seeing how faith plays into understanding all the events. The author of Hebrews begins with creation (which we believe by faith) and then praises some key figures for their faith: Abel, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Hebrews 11 says more about Isaac and Jacob, and many other characters of faith, and we will get to those in due time!
But one verse that I need to draw your attention to is verse 6: "Without faith it is impossible to please God." If God is pleased with us, it is because we believe. But without faith, we could have power, riches, good works before men, service, generosity, kindness, humanitarian activities, and all kinds of earthly righteousness, but God would not be pleased because our hearts would still be far from him. But faith recognizes that God is pleased with us because of Jesus Christ. He has righteousness before God, and he gives it to us.
So we need to remember that neither Abraham nor Sarah, neither Isaac nor Jacob, nor anyone else pleased God because of their own good works. They pleased him because they believed. And faith is ignited by the Holy Spirit. It is God's work, not ours. Faith was first given to many of us in baptism. It was given to some others first in the hearing of the Word of God (adult converts). Faith comes by hearing the message!
We are reminded that these patriarchs pleased God because of faith, not by works, every time we see a fault of one of these characters. They were sinful, fallen humans like us. But yet, God did extraordinary things through them.
Read Genesis 24
There are so many things in this account for which we could give God praise: the faith of Abraham's servant, his trusting prayer, that God answered even while the servant was still speaking, that Rebekah was beautiful inside just as she was outside, that she was ready to serve and do the Lord's will, that her family was willing to let her go because they recognized the hand of the Lord, and probably much more! It is an incredible account.
What a contrast this account is when compared to the waiting and the struggles that Abraham and Sarah had to endure. There are times when, like Abraham and Sarah, we might wonder how long we must suffer and how much we must endure until God's plans begin to move us to a different place in life where we can find relief, even happiness and rejoicing. But then there are also times in our lives when we get an answer from God much sooner than we would have imagined, and it is a gracious answer that is cause for much rejoicing!
Oh, if only all of life were like that. The servant goes, he prays, God sends Rebekah, the deal is arranged, she comes with him, she meets Isaac, he loves her, and they live happily ever after! Well, not happily ever after, actually. There are troubles ahead.
But I think sometimes in our own lives our joy is tempered by "real life." Let it not be so! Though we all know troubles are ahead of us, instead of letting those troubles hamper our joy now, let's allow the joy now to overflow within us, and let it encourage us and inspire use even throughout the times of troubles.
Yes, maybe Rebekah will be encouraged when her sons give her grief to remember how God graciously answered prayer and gave her a husband to love and care for her. Maybe she will remember that God directed her ways and in such an incredible way provided for her.
May we also give thanks to God in times of joy, and not let that joy be squashed by fear and worry. God is good. And sometimes his plans come together in an instant. May joy over his gracious work give us peace and comfort in times of waiting.
Ask Yourself:
What were some times in my life when prayers were answered instantly, and God's gracious hand was clearly visible?
What were some times in my life when I wondered if God was at work at all?
How can I use my stories of God's answered prayers in my life to encourage another who is struggling, waiting, hurting?
Pray:
Lord, Thee I love with all my heart;
I pray Thee, ne'er from me depart, With tender mercy cheer me.
Earth has no pleasure I would share.
Yea, heav'n itself were void and bare If Thou, Lord, wert not near me.
And should my heart for sorrow break,
My trust in Thee can nothing shake.
Thou art the portion I have sought;
Thy precious blood my soul has bought.
Lord Jesus Christ, my God and Lord, my God and Lord,
Forsake me not! I trust Thy Word.
(LSB 708:1, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
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