When God Whispers: Recent Episodes
Lori Morgan
To share the gospel of Jesus Christ and share how God has supported, encouraged me, but most of all, changed me.
To glorify Him and share Him with others
We all think about caring for our physical heart trouble, but what can we do to take care of our "spiritual heart trouble"? Lean into God. If you don't know Jesus as your personal Savior, that is the first step.
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The priests who served in the tabernacle were to be ordained andconsecrated. They were to be servants ofGod. Do you feel you are called to serveGod in a specific way?
Again, we see that if they did not dress in a specific way whenthey came to minister at the tabernacle, especially their undergarments, they woulddie. Do you think this soundsharsh? Do you think it is more aboutobedience than the garments?
Why do you think God was working so hard to teach them obedience?
Heavenly Father, I think about how You haveworked to show us that all Your rules have a foundation in teaching us to beobedient to You. I know You are tryingto protect us, usually from our own poor decisions, but I also know we arepeople that want things to make sense, and so often from the world’sperspective, things don’t make sense. Iknow I am to have faith, but I have to admit that I too want things to makesense, but my faith is strong and my love for You is helping that faith growstrong and just believe and obey. Helpme to be obedient to You even when things don’t’ make sense. Help me be strong in my faith and grow itstronger every day so I can be a witness to the world of a faithful believer.
In Jesus’ name.
Amen!
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What was the significance of the gold medallion engraved with “HolyTo The Lord” over the priest’s forehead as he offered sacrifices to God?
How can you always keep God in mind as you worship?
There were bells sewn into the priest’s robe to announce hispresence and movements as he served the Lord in the Most Holy Place. Without these bells he could die. Think about what it meant for him as a mereman to go into the presence of the Lord.
Heavenly Father, Would I risk my life toworship You if I knew I could die if I did anything wrong, or came to You withthe wrong mindset? I sure hope I would,but it’s hard to know what I would do until the situation came to reality. I know things have changed drastically for usas faithful believers on this side of the cross, but I wonder if You aredisappointed with how we come into Your presence without the reverence,adoration, and wonder that the priests had at one time. I so want to please You and want You to know thatI do know You are God and deserve our praise, worship, and to be revered aboveall else. I know we seldom seem torevere You as we should. Thank You forloving me and accepting me as I am and extending Your grace and mercy to meeven though I know I don’t deserve it.
In Jesus’ name.
Amen!
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What was the significance of the priests bearing the names of thesons of Israel in the breastpiece of judgment on their ephod?
How can we carry the name of Jesus with us as we go about our day?
What can you do today to worship God in a way that is pure worshipand not just asking Him for what You need?
Heavenly Father, help me realize that I carry Your name with meeverywhere I go and those around me see You in me, so I need to be so carefulwhat I say and do. I am a messenger tothose around me of what it means to be a follower of Christ and I need to beever faithful to You. Help me remember Irepresent You every step I take, every word I speak, every action I make. Help me remember to represent You well, evenon my worst days, help me act in the best ways, for You.
In Jesus name’
Amen!
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Why do you think God appointed special priests?
Why do you think was God so specific about how the clothing forthe priests was made?
God’s standards were high for the priests clothing they wore asthey ministered to Him. Do you think Hisstandards have changed?
Heavenly Father, when I read these versesand see the detail that went into the garments just like the detail that wentinto the tabernacle, I can’t help but wonder if we have become too lax in howwe come to You. I know You don’t carewhat we are wearing as much as You do the condition of our hearts, but I wonderif the condition of our hearts shouldn’t desire to give You our very best, evenin the way we dress. I don’t mean thatwe should dress in expensive clothes, but more that we should dress respectfulof You, since we are coming to You to worship You. I do believe we worship differently dependingon how we prepare to come into Your presence. That could mean our clothing, or our prayers, definitely ourattitude. I just can’t seem to get pasthow perfect and precise You wanted things. You are a precise God and not one to give us Your leftovers, but itseems like so often I give You my leftovers. I know You don’t expect us to spend all our money on clothes for church,but again, I don’t want to give You my worst. Help me see how You would have me prepare to worship You, and how togive You my very best each and every day.
In Jesus’ name.
Amen!
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I wonder what the significance of using olive oiland as described here, “pure beaten olive oil”?
Why did the lampstand burn continually?
I wonder if they kept it burning when they movedfrom place to place and how they moved it?
This wasn’t an easy task for sure that they wouldcreate, build, and then move all the furnishings as well as the tabernacleitself. I think about moving from onehouse to the next ever 10 years or so and I can’t imagine being on the move for40 years.
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How do you spend your time?
Who do you spend your time with?
What are you teaching your children before they go out and face the world?
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As we are seeing theinstructions coming to an end on how to build the tabernacle there is aquestion that lingers in my mind that I truly don’t have the answer for, but Iknow there has to be a reason.
Why were the furnishingsoutside the curtain be made of bronze while those inside the curtain and theark of the covenant are made of gold?
I know God doesn’t doanything without reason. I love that acaciawood was used as it is known to be beautiful as well as durable, which makes methink of the love of God for us. Beautiful and long lasting.
Are there other questionsyou have about symbolism and the construction of this tabernacle?
Imagine how it must havebeen over the 40 years they spent in the wilderness to take this tabernacledown and put it back up as they moved from place to place.
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What was the purpose of the veil? The veil was to separate thepeople from God as He dwelt in the Most Holy Place. I just love that we are nolonger separated from God. We have Jesus as our intercessor. The Holy Spiritdwells with us daily. God’s plan is perfect. His provision is complete, and weare beyond blessed. Thank God today for all that He does for you and all thatHe provides for us. Thank God for His perfect plan and His unconditional love.May we learn, as we grow more like Him, to love unconditionally. When you consider the thickness of this veil,remember that when Jesus died on the cross, this veil is ripped from top tobottom. Thank You God for allowing usdirect access to You through Your precious Son, Jesus Christ. He redeemed us from our own sin!
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Can you imagine the beauty of this temple and the furnishings? Howmuch more beautiful will heaven be? They were limited to things of this earth,but heaven will be beyond what we can imagine because it will be made of thingswe haven’t yet seen. I can’t wait to seeHis majesty and the home He has prepared for me. I believe His promise and Ipray that you too will join me in heaven one day. If you are not certain ofthis promise, spend time today praying for redemption in Jesus and reach out tothe ministry team if you are not certain of your salvation. One of us wouldlove to talk with you. Call or text us at: 918-344-5656 and we will respond asquickly as possible.
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Look at the picture that is on this post and see what man has beenable to create that looks like what the tabernacle must have looked like. How beautiful! Again, we see God’s provisions being made forHis temple. He has not left any detail out of His plan. He plans our life withthe same attention to detail. We, however, must wait patiently for His plan tounfold. Dear God, bless us with patience and help us to rely on you and yourprovisions. Help us to pray, “Thy will be done” daily in our life and step outof the way so that You can answer that prayer.
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Again, God provides thedirections for a lampstand that will be used in the temple. Every piece He hadthem create had a specific use and meaning. He designed this lampstand with six branches and of course everythingabout each piece had a special significance. God doesn’t do anything without purpose and meaning. Our God is a God of details.
As I live my life and lookback, I see where He has provided in so many ways and has worked the detailsout for me long before I knew I would be in a certain situation. If you havefound the same in your life, give God the praises He deserves and tell everyoneyou know how much God loves us and is our great provider, even in the smallestof matters. Thank you, God.
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Here we see God preparingHis people to build the furniture that will be needed in the temple for thesacrifices they will make. These sacrifices will serve as an atonement fortheir sins. I am so grateful that Jesus’ death on that cross has absolved me ofall of my sins.
Do I ask for forgivenessof my sins as I live my life?
Do I call on the HolySpirit for direction as I live?
I am so thankful I live onthis side of the cross. May I remember to daily thank Jesus for what He did forus.
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It still amazes me thatGod desired to dwell among His people on a daily basis. He communicated withMoses while he was present on the mercy seat. We have been given the HolySpirit as our helper. We are so blessed because the Holy Spirit is with us always.Be still and listen for the direction of the Holy Spirit in your life. Hedwells within us, but I can say I do not always attune my heart to Hisguidance. I pray that God will convict me and lead me to seek the power of theHoly Spirit daily, minute by minute. May you join me in this prayer.
Is there a special placeyou like to pray because you can focus and feel the Spirit better withoutdistractions?
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God is about to teach Hispeople how to craft for Him fine pieces that will reside in the Holy of Holies. I cannot imagine being taught by God. He wasvery willing to teach His people and show them what He desired. God has giftedall of us with a talent or two.
Are you willing to useyour talent to edify God’s people and praise Him for the talents and gifts Hehas given you?
Think about your callingand your talents God has blessed you with and take time to serve others withthese blessings.
God will grow you and continueto lead you as you are used in His service.
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Moses held God’s written words in his hands.He met with God for forty days and forty nights. He saw the devouring fire ofthe glory of the Lord. We too hold God’s word in our hands as we study and readour Bible each day. This passage reminds me of the power of God’s Holy Word.
Do I always recognize the power of His Word?
Do I cry out to God to show me His power?
Do I show gratitude for all His word teachesme?
I can answer that I struggle with this in mywalk.
Where do you find your answer to thesequestions?
Is there someone in your life that alsostruggles as I do?
Pray for them today. Pray for yourself ifneed be.
God loves us and will grow us if we simplyseek Him.
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I cannot even imagine this scene in my mind.These men, the elders, were in the presence of God. They saw the presence ofGod. The street was like sapphire! Beautiful beyond description, I am sure. Ihave seen nothing like this but I have seen God’s image in the presence of anewborn baby, an amazing sunset, a prayer answered that I thought wasimpossible. God, thank you for showing up and showing off.
When was the last time you saw a sunset thattook your breath away?
Whose beautiful baby have you held lately?
What prayer did you pray that you felt wasimpossible, but you prayed it despite your lack of faith and God came throughin a way you knew it could only be Him?
Take time today to thank God for thebeautiful ways He shows up daily in your life.
Give Him all the praise.
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I have to say after reading these scriptureshow thankful I am that I am washed in the blood of Jesus Christ. I have anintercessor for me that has given me eternal life. What a gift!
As I read this passage, I marvel at how braveMoses has become. I remember reading how he expressed his concerns about hisspeech and his ability to speak in front of the people. He has become so boldin his deliverance of God’s word.
How has God found me?
Am I bold or am I timid when I have a chanceto speak Biblical truth? How I want to be found bold and blessed to be brave.
How willing are you to speak truth withboldness?
Pray today that God will bless you withopportunities daily, that you will be able to recognize the opportunities andthat you will let go of all timidity and speak truth.
This is a life-or-death situation for many,whether they realize it or not. Don’t be found lacking.
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What an intentional, detailed, and protective God we serve. In these passages God sends an angel toprotect and guide the Israelites to the place that He has prepared for them. The details are laid out so no questioning ofsafety is required. Even the hornets areon high alert and have a specific job to do. The extraordinary love of God is revealed once again.
He even made a plan so the land would become theirs gradually andnot become desolate or overtaken. God isone to plan and not allow chaos to overtake us. If you are living on the edge of chaos, give God the reins and allow Himto bring you to a place of peace and order.
God has gone before us as well to prepare our place in eternity. What excites you about God’s plans for youreternity?
How do you feel protected by God on a daily basis? Think of specific examples.
Take time to reflect on God’s intentionality for your life. Are you yielding to His will? Pray to move forward with faith and trustthat God loves you with an immense love.
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These scriptures remind us to keep the Sabbath holy and a day ofrest. God also reminds us that everyoneneeds the rest, our workers and our animals. Instructions are shared about Feasts and when and how they should beobserved. God didn’t leave anything tochance with the Israelites. He gave themspecific instructions and they still couldn’t get it right.
I wish I could say we do better, but we are the same. God gives us specific instructions on what weneed to do to enjoy the wonderful salvation of Jesus, and we still can’t get itright.
Why do you think we are unwilling or unable to follow theinstructions we are given by God on how to please Him?
Do you observe the Sabbath as a day of rest? If so, how?
I can understand how the observations, feast, sacrifices, andofferings were difficult to keep up with, but the mentioning of first fruitsresonates with me. How are you offeringyour first fruits to God? What actionscan you begin now to offer your first fruits to our loving God? What do you believe is meant by “first fruits”? Does it mean the first we plant? The first we harvest? Or maybe it is the best,as in “first place”? Ask God what youare to consider your “first fruits”.
How can we encourage others to offer their first fruits? How can we teach our children to do so?
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These laws were meant to promote honesty and fair treatment ofothers. God is always in thedetails.
Have you ever been a victim of a false witness? Think about how you were made to feel? How can you testify to the graciousness ofGod during this time of trouble?
Have you witnessed the poor, downtrodden, or weak beingoppressed? What should our response beaccording to God’s word?
When we see injustice, how can we reflect God’s character ofcompassion, holiness, and love?
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The study of God’s laws helps us to see both His intentionality andprotection. They can, however, seemweighty. And they should as you allow yourselfto feel the outrageous crushing weight of God’s love.
Are God’s laws from the Old Testament relevant today?
Do you daily acknowledge that you are a sinner saved by grace andask forgiveness of your sins?
How can the law lead us closer to Christ?
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My first thoughts are that these combined verses seem somewhatrandom regarding what is morally right, but they are not. God is not a God of randomness, but a God ofintent and purpose. These verses sharethe following: offenses against God andhumanity, honoring the Lord and acting in a moral manner. We are made in the image of God, so God takesseriously how we treat each other.
Holiness describes our God. Yet, we are far from holy, and our Holy God loves us beyondmeasure. How can we strive to becomemore holy while understanding we will never be perfect? What steps can we take to be more holy?
1 Timothy 1:5 states, “Now the purpose of the commandment is lovefrom a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith.” Jesus came and fulfilled these laws. A pure heart, good conscience, and sincerefaith; my mind says I am far from this. Perhapsit’s by fixing our eyes on Jesus. But, howdo we fix our eyes on Jesus?
How can we work toward inward purity?
Jesus was the perfect example of honoring God and others. Today is a great day to submit yourself toHis will and honor the plans He has for your life.
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These verses deal with the responsible thing to do. They cover the laws for theft as well as lawsfor negligence or fraud.
What can you appreciate about why God put these laws in place?
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you were responsiblefor someone or something and an accident or something went ‘way wrong’?
Did you seek God first in the situation?
How were things resolved?
Take time to reflect on God’s extraordinary love that provides forus even before we ask or seek Him.
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These passages give God’s laws regarding crime and punishment. While in today’s society, they may seemcruel; God’s laws were not. Godaddresses a variety of crimes with punishment according to their severity. It is the very idea behind our criminaljustice system today.
Is God justifying ‘an eye for an eye’ in these passages?
Did God make provisions for intention and accidental harm toothers?
In this passage, does God provide for mercy?
How did Jesus himself, experience injustice?
How did the injustice imposed upon Jesus, lead to mercy for us?
Have you experienced injustice? Recall how God took care of you.
How can we replace vengeance for wrongdoing on us with mercy andleave justice to God?
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It is important to understand that slavery in the Old Testament isdifferent from what we are familiar with. The slavery of the Israelites was debt related and intended to betemporary to help families correct their financial situations. Here God offers directions for protection offamilies and female slaves. Thank God therewas a New Master coming.
God is a God of protection. How has He protected you during good times and challenging times? Think of how you’ve seen His hand ofprotection.
God never intended for us to be trapped in slavery. However, in this sinful world, conditionsabound for sex slavery and trafficking as identified and shared in the recentmovie, “Sound of Freedom”. Our childrenare being kidnapped and put into sex slavery by evil people. As Christians, how can we take a stand andhelp eliminate this outrageous, intolerable crisis in our country? What steps will you begin taking today? We cannot stand by and look the other way.
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Here we see God expressing ideas of idols and graven images. He shares how to honor and love Him. He says,” I have talked to you fromHeaven.” God spoke to the Israelites andthrough the Israelites He continues to speak to us. Something to think about: The God of the Universe still speaks to ustoday. Praise Him!
We may not have graven images in your home. Yet, think about how you spend your time andmoney. Are there things you may worshipthat aren’t to be worshipped?
In verse 26 we see that we cannot keep secrets from God. We will be exposed when we try to hide oursin from Him.
How can you begin to move beyond wanting earthly “things”?
What steps can you begin taking to fall in love with Jesus moreeach day?
Although God knows you intimately, He yearns to have a morepersonal relationship with you. Reflectand pray about what might be standing in your way.
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Here we see the Israelites are fearful and stand away while Mosesdraws nearer to God. Moses understandsfearing God with reverence and drawing closer to Him. Growing up I had a healthy fear of my parentsbecause I respected them and knew they wanted the best for me. I never doubted their love. God is the same. I pray that you never doubt Gods love foryou.
Think about the nature of this experience. We often are frightened by an active seasonalstorm but imagine the sound of the trumpet and the mountain smoking. Is there any wonder why the people might havebeen afraid? What may have crossed theirminds? If you were present, would youhave been fearful?
What do you see in God’s character to urge Moses to drawcloser? In other words, “I desire to becloser to you Moses. Please come closerbecause I have some things I want to say to you?”
Is there a fear of God that actually draws you closer to Him?
Pray to understand a ‘fear for God’ as more of understanding of Hisawesome nature, character and His extreme love for us.
I pray that you never doubt how very much God loves you.
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Just as parents have expectations for children to lead to a safe, fulfilled,and successful life, God did the same for his people. This isn’t surprising when we consider God’slove for us. He always wants the bestfor us and when you review these particular commandments you can see God waswanting us to live fulfilled lives that honor Him as our guide, while treatingothers with respect.
· Do you see love as the binding theme of the Ten Commandments? How so?
· Reread each of these commandments and think about what they mean toyou personally.
· The Ten Commandments serve as a code of conduct for today’sChristians. Think about how today’ssociety reacts to the Ten Commandments. Do we consciously try to follow the commandments on a daily basis? Are there any that you struggle with as aChristian?
· Pray today that you will see the Ten Commandments as a way to live yourlife with relationships that matter the most, God and others. Pray that youwill yield to God’s will to those commandments you find difficult to follow.
Please note, some ideas taken from Why Did God Have to Give HisPeople the 10 Commandments?@christianity.com
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This commandment is sooften misunderstood, I believe. Theleaders of that day took it to an extreme where it was unlawful to help peoplewho were in desperate need of help. Ibelieve God gave them this commandment not only to remind them to take one daya week to worship and praise Him, but they had come out of Egypt where theywere working 7 days a week and God wanted them to take time to rest. He wanted them to be able to rest and toworship Him, two things they hadn’t been able to do freely in many years. Jesus later tells His followers that thesabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath, and I believe that is whatHe was trying to get them to see. It wasfor their benefit, not punishment as it had become for many.
How do you treat thesabbath? Before Jesus’ resurrection, thesabbath was on Saturday, but once Jesus came out of that tomb on that firstEaster Sunday morning, Christians have celebrated Sunday as the Lord’s Day. Unfortunately, due to our need to haveeverything at our fingertips constantly, many have to work on Sunday, but wecan still honor and worship God no matter where we are.
Do you take a day to restand worship God even if it isn’t on Sunday?
Why do you think God gavethem double manna on Friday, so they didn’t have to gather it on Saturday, thesabbath?
What makes a day holy toyou? How do you like to spend days withGod?
Take time with your familythis week to talk to them about taking one day a week to focus on God andfamily. It is so rewarding to take astep back and enjoy our Creator.
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This one verse says somuch in so few words. I don’t know manypeople that haven’t crossed the line with this one. It doesn’t even mean using His name asprofanity, but using His name when it isn’t in reverence. Anytime we misuse His name or use it in alighthearted manner, we take His name in vain. This one is often a heart issue. How reverent and serious are we about who God is and how we representHim? Sometimes I wish for the days whenI was growing up when we stayed in the foyer until we were ready to go in thesanctuary and be serious, quiet, and reverent. But I know God loves us and wants us to enjoy life too, but I thinkoften we just don’t see Him as God. Sometimes I forget who He is and give Him my prayer list and move onwith my day, but He is our Creator, our Lord, our Defender, our Comforter, ourHealer, our Savior, and yes, our Father. I could take pages and pages to list who He is to us, but I think youget the idea. He is so much to us, andhow much time do I give Him where my focus is Him and not just getting throughthe prayer, or the ss lesson, or the sermon, or finish reading this chapter soI can get my questions for Bible Study done and move on with my day. I have to believe I am not alone in this.
Please pray today and askGod to reveal Himself to you in a new way. Ask Him to help you see His majesty and his glory. I pray you are able to have a newrelationship with God once you open yourself up to who He is.
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Now that God has remindedMoses of who He is and what He has done not only for Moses, but for the Israelites,God is ready to give Him the ten simple commandments for them to follow. The first commandments God gives them isabout their relationship with Him. ThenHe goes into how they should treat and respect each other.
These first twocommandments are extremely serious, and I know we break them daily. How can we expect to have the relationship wecould and should have with God if we daily are disobedient to the first twocommandments He gave us.
When I make a list ofthings I must do, I always put the most important ones first. I feel God did the same with these twocommandments coming first. We are tohave no other gods before Him. Whatthings do you hold as more important than God? Anything can be a god to us. Work, our home, our children, our spouse, our reputation, our looks, ourpossessions, our cars…literally anything that keeps you from being completelywith God and worshipping Him as You should, can be a God. I believe TV and entertainment easily becomesour God. I know many times I have tostop and evaluate how I am spending my time. It’s not that we aren’t supposed to have fun, but so often we say, “Ijust didn’t have time to read my bible and pray today. I didn’t have time to study this week’s biblestudy.” But what did we do instead of spending time with our Creator andSavior? I know I play games on my phone,I watch TV, I read, I find many things to do with my time that has nothing todo with God and has nothing edifying for me, yet I often don’t find time to bewith God. Pray today that God guides youto things you might have put in place of Him without realizing it. Prayfor Him to prompt you to pick up His love letter to you and read how much Heloves You and how He wants to spend time with You, rather than the many otherthings that the enemy is prompting you to do with your time.
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I know it might seem likethere are just a few words in our verses today, but how profound those wordsare. The fact that God spoke to Moses atall is a miracle in itself.
He reminded Moses who Hewas and what He had done for the Israelites. My first thought it that Moses could look around and see they weren’t inEgypt, but it was more than that. It wasa reminder that what Moses might at times think he himself did, was completelyGod’s doing. Moses was the mouth movingbut the words and the influence was God and God alone.
He also reminds Moses hereof the circumstances the Israelites had been under in Egypt. They had been in the house of slavery. Everywhere they went in Egypt they were underPharaoh’s thumb. They couldn’t sleep,eat, travel…anything without Pharaoh’s permission and all they had, as far asfood and clothing wasn’t theirs, but provided by Pharaoh. Of course, it wasn’t much, but God isreminding Moses here of all that had taken place as part of the process ofgetting them out of Egypt. The plagues,the Passover, the Egyptians giving them goods to take with them. None of it came about naturally. It was all God.
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Why do you think Godwanted Moses to tell the people again the guidelines He had set up for themregarding the mountain and trying to come up the mountain?
Why do you think He would notlet them even touch the mountain?
Do you ever find yourselftempted to take just a little more and a little more until you have totallygone against what you intended? Godknows us better than we know ourselves. His rules are to keep us out of trouble, yet we seem to do everythingpossible to defy Him.
Pray today that God wouldhelp you be obedient to Him so You can stay in a place of repentance andlove.
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God gave the people manyrules about what they could do and couldn’t do to prepare for Him to speak toMoses as well as what to expect when He was speaking to Moses and what wasallowed during that time.
Why do you think He was sospecific with His instructions to them?
What would have happenedto those who chose not to obey?
What significance do yousee in the reference to “the third day”?
I have heard the phrase asa child, “The devil made me do it!” when someone got caught doing somethingthey shouldn’t have done. My parentswere a little over the top, at times, at least as far as it appeared to me, butI see in hindsight what they were doing with their protectiveness.
Have you ever realizedafter the fact, what you griped about to God in the past was actually somethingthat God was using for your good? I knowback in July of 2020 my husband was informed he was going to be laid off inexactly one month. The law requires themto give a month notice to those who are over age 60. Doug had turned 60 the prior fall, so hereceived notice of his job being eliminated.
Here we were in the latesummer of 2020, in the middle of the pandemic, and Doug has no job. Being that he was over 60, and the pandemichad certainly not helped grow his field, we felt it would most likely take manymonths of searching for Doug to find a company that would hire him. We prepared for a long period of time withlittle to no income. But God had aspecial place in mind for Doug as He knew what was ahead for us.
God used some of Doug’swork contacts to bring us a miracle and He gave Doug a really great job wherehe could work from home.
In November of 2020, Dougfound out he had bladder cancer, and his new company was amazing in the waythey treated and cared for him. Althoughthe law would have allowed them to terminate Doug when they found out he had amedical situation in the first year of employment, that never was discussed,and they treated him extremely well.
God knew what was ahead forus when we didn’t, and He took care to bring Doug to the right job, with theright people at the right time. I’mpleased to let you know that Doug is now cancer free and doing well.
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God took them to Mount Sianito talk to them. Do you see God movingyou to a place where He can talk to you? Sometimes we are too distracted to listen, and God has to move us for usto hear Him. Have you ever felt Godmoving you to a place where You can listen better to His instructions?
In verse 5 we see we areconsidered a treasured possession of God when we obey Him and keep Hiscovenants. What a wonderful thing to bea treasured possession of God.
As God is moving you andbringing you to a new place don’t forget that He considers you His treasuredpossession, and what He truly wants is a relationship with You. Don’t resist His promptings. Move as He guides and listen to His voice soHe can bring you to the absolute best place to grow in Him.
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Moses made a mistake byattempting to take on more than he was able to do. Have you ever been tempted to do that?
God sent suitable peopleto help him. They had always beenavailable, but until Moses was willing to accept help, he didn’t see it.
Who has God placed in yourlife who would help you in any way you asked?
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Moses protected his familywhile he was in Egypt by sending them to be with his father-in-law.
How do you see yourHeavenly Father protecting you daily?
What do you see He hasprotected you from?
Moses’ father-in-law wasthrilled to hear about the work of the Lord in Moses’ life. Do you celebrate when you see God working insomeone’s life?
In what ways can youcelebrate with them?
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God is always the one towin our battles for us. It’s nothing inus that is truly capable of winning because we are fighting an enemy that is avery conniving and strong enemy. I’mgrateful that our God is stronger. Thereare many times I’m weak in my fight and I reach out to God and He sends me helpby way of a friend. That is what He didhere. He had Aaron and Hur hold up Mosesarms when He became too weak. What wemust remember though is that the strength is in God, not the friends. If we start thinking the friends are the oneswith the strength rather than God, He will show us the truth. He gives us godly friends to help us, but Ihave had times where I depended on my friends more than I was depending on God,and He removed those relationships. Theone we can always count on is God. Theremight be people in our lives that support us and help us but make no mistakethat they are only there as long as God allows them to be. We need to gain our strength from Him. Pray to Him today to help you lean on Him andHim alone.
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Once again, God tested the Israelites. They arrived at Rephidim and there was no water to drink. They didnot call out to God for provision. Instead, they grumbled to Moses and blamedHim. God spoke with Moses and water was provided when Moses followed specificinstructions from God. God has had a plan all along to provide us with theliving water through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. This living waterflows freely for those who choose to accept Jesus Christ as their personal Lordand Savior. Is there someone you know that is not drinking freely of the livingwater? Find time today to pray for them and ask that God would put people intheir life to help them find the way to Jesus.
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God is a good, good God. Imagine how much manna He provided. This provision lasted for the full fortyyears. Daily he rained down manna and on the sixth day He rained down a doubleportion. God’s provision to His chosen people is mind boggling. God knew thatthis history of His amazing provision needed to be passed on to futuregenerations. This was accomplished by placing a jar of the manna before theLord. Eventually, this jar would find its way into the Ark of the Covenant. Howwell He knew His chosen people. We. Too, tend to forget all that God has donefor us. Our children need to be reminded of the goodness of God as we raisethem. Take time today to tell someone of the provisions of God in your life.Share with them how well God has taken care of your family and loved ones. Howsweet that God gave us the Bible to help us remember His faithfulness to thoseHe loves.
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God has blessed us with a day of rest just as He blessed the Israelites. They did not have a day of restas they labored in Egypt. God explained what His expectations were. We, too,have a day of rest. As we live in such a rushed, demanding society, do wealways observe this day of rest? I know that when I was a mom and a wife and ateacher, days of rest were few and far between. Forgive me, Father. I was notbeing obedient. He made this day of rest to revive us, to renew us, to show Hislove for us, the very least we can do is to show our love for Him by restingand allowing Him to renew us with His words. May you find a day of rest and reflection in your life. If not, ask Godto help you find a way to be obedient and honor His commandments so that you,too, may observe a day of rest.
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Why is it so hard for us to be obedient to God? Here we see that the Israelites who gathered an excessof manna and this excess of manna bred worms and stank. God had a plan for Hispeople and Moses made it very clear how to collect the food and survive. I, too, find myself being disobedient to Godso I can certainly identify with His chosen people. I also find myself doubtingGod’s provisions at times. I find myself feeling fear and that is when Itypically act out and am disobedient. Whywould I even go down that road? As I look back at my life, I have always hadENOUGH. That is all I need. Check yourself and see if you, too, struggle withobedience to God and doubting Him. If the answer is yes, ask for forgiveness.
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This passage always makes me smile. They were slaves in Egypt. It is very doubtful they were sat by“meatpots and ate bread to the full”. How many times have I grumbled when thesituation does not suit my fancy? What does my grumbling say about myrelationship with God? When we grumble, we show our dissatisfaction with God’sprovisions. Instead of grumbling, perhaps we should take our concerns to God.Think about this the next time you are in a situation you feel is less thansatisfactory.
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How soon they forget. The Israelites traveled for three days. They needed water and none was to be found.At Marah, the water was bitter. Moses cried out to God and he instructed Mosesso that the water could be made drinkable. Once again, God’s provisions weremore than adequate. Our God is so good. As you go through your day today, bemindful of the provisions of our God. It is so easy to take for granted allthat God does for us. Offer prayers of thanksgiving today. We are so blessed.Thank you, Lord God.
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The journey through the Red Sea is complete and now it is time to praise God and celebrate the victoryGod provided over the Egyptians. How sweet this time must have been. Think of atime when God provided a sweet victory for you. Perhaps it was a restoration ofa relationship, the birth of a long-awaited baby, a salvation experience for aloved one you have been covering in prayer for a long time. Our God is good,and He wants us to call on Him and give Him all the praise in these sweetmoments. He also wants us to praise Him when times are tough. Oh, how hard thisis. Ask God today to strengthen your walk during good times and hard times. Hewill.
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How wonderful to see God continue to protect His chosen people. Not only does God protect theIsraelites, He destroys their enemies. Egyptians were rendered helpless, andGod triumphed again. Take a look at your life. Are you being pursued by afrightful army? Probably not but if you are like me, it sometimes seems like anarmy when Satan is after you. Satan haspursued people since Adam and Eve and he's not about to stop now. When I was a child and became scared, Ialways ran to my dad, and he would pick me up and hold me in his arms. I felt so protected there. Of course, now I know the protection Ithought I had in his arms, was all in my head, but it sure made this littlegirl feel safe.
Allow God to provide you protection and do not hesitate to cry out to God when the battle feels too tough,and all seems to be crashing in on you. He is a mighty God and He loves us.Turn to Him, cry out to Him and let Him show you the way.
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Once again, we see God preparing the way of the Israelites. He used a strong east wind to divide thesea and dry the land so that the Israelites had sure footing as they made theirway on dry land. God caused panic to be present in the Egyptian forces. Heclogged their wheels, so movement was hard. God prevailed and the Egyptianswere afraid. Think about your life. Have you personally experienced theprotection of the Lord? Has He freed you from your enemies?
What a mighty God we serve. Take some time right now to thank Him for all He has done for you andthe protection that only He can provide. Even more important, tell someone todayof all the good you have seen because of your relationship with God.
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It’s sometimes hard to understand fear. Think of a time your children were frightened. It may not have made sense to you, but you were there to console, comfort and offer support. God does the same. Frankly, I think, “how ridiculous the Israelites acted having just been freed from the Egyptians in a miraculous way and then suffering what seemed to be amnesia, not trusting or having faith in God’s promise.”
Oh but, how often am I just like the Israelites? How often do I fail to recall how good God has been to me? How often do I fail to thank God for His extraordinary love?
Reflect on how God has provided for you time and time again and thank Him today for his grace, love, mercy and unfailing love.
So God acted as a buffer between the Israelites and the Egyptians. He moved from the guiding position into a position of protection, just as we do for our children when they struggle with fear. He provided light for the Israelites and darkness for the Egyptians. He did the same for us when He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for us on the cross. Jesus saved us from our sin, eminent death and a torturous life in hell. The Israelites had to have faith in God and how God directed their leader, Moses. We, too, must have faith in God and depend on His direction to guide us and not allow fear to keep us from following Him. The Israelites had to do their part in preparing for the battles God would send their way. We, too, are called to fight battles for the Lord on a daily basis. How do we prepare for the battles we face? Are we putting on the whole armor of God that we may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil? Are we wearing the helmet of salvation and carrying the shield of faith? Do we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us through our conversations with God as we pray daily? God loves us and protects us but He does expect us to do our part.
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It’s sometimes hard to understand fear. Think of a time your children were frightened. It may not have made sense to you, but you were there to console, comfort and offer support. God does the same. Frankly, I think, “how ridiculous the Israelites acted having just been freed from the Egyptians in a miraculous way and then suffering what seemed to be amnesia, not trusting or having faith in God’s promise.”
Oh but, how often am I just like the Israelites? How often do I fail to recall how good God has been to me? How often do I fail to thank God for His extraordinary love?
Reflect on how God has provided for you time and time again and thank Him today for his grace, love, mercy and unfailing love.
So God acted as a buffer between the Israelites and the Egyptians. He moved from the guiding position into a position of protection, just as we do for our children when they struggle with fear. He provided light for the Israelites and darkness for the Egyptians. He did the same for us when He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for us on the cross. Jesus saved us from our sin, eminent death and a torturous life in hell. The Israelites had to have faith in God and how God directed their leader, Moses. We, too, must have faith in God and depend on His direction to guide us and not allow fear to keep us from following Him. The Israelites had to do their part in preparing for the battles God would send their way. We, too, are called to fight battles for the Lord on a daily basis. How do we prepare for the battles we face? Are we putting on the whole armor of God that we may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil? Are we wearing the helmet of salvation and carrying the shield of faith? Do we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us through our conversations with God as we pray daily? God loves us and protects us but He does expect us to do our part.
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Oh Pharaoh, you are so fickle and quick to forget God’s wrath. It didn’t take long for Pharaoh to question his decision to release the Israelites. So now we see an army preparing to attack and take back the Israelites who were encamped by the sea in the wilderness.
Although Pharaoh wasn’t a child of God, we can learn much from his actions. How are we sometimes like fickle Pharaoh and change our mind back and forth on what we should do?
What does that say about your faith?
Do you trust God’s plan or will for your life?
How do you discern God’s plan?
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These verses share how God went before the Israelites. He continues daily to go before us as well.
How have you witnessed God going before you?
How are you comforted to know that God watches over you and is already in your situations?
Recall a time or times when without hesitation you know that God went before you.
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These verses share sacrifice, redemption, praise for God’s faithfulness, and an urgency to share the testimony of God’s fulfilled promise to free the Israelites with their children.
I recently read a quote saying, “tell your children about Jesus, so Satan doesn’t share his lies about the world.” Are you sharing the urgency of Christ’s sacrifice so we might have eternal life with your children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, community, etc.? Think about ways to share Christ with others. What has Christ done for you? How are you able to face life’s burdens, heartbreaks or even joys because you have Christ in your life?
How can you become a Christian? There is urgency… there will come a day when there are no more chances to make that decision.
For those who know Jesus, we need to share Christ, shine Christ’s light and fall in love with Him more each day.
If you have questions about how to become a Christian and follow Jesus, please call or text Lori at 918-344-5656 and one of the ministry team will get back with you as soon as possible.
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We find these verses are the beginning of instructions for a new nation. God shares that the firstborn whether human or animal is to be consecrated to Him. It also served as a reminder that firstborns were His. Israel was God’s firstborn, firstborn was thought to be the best, and finally that God redeemed His firstborn, Israel, from Egypt. In verses 3-7 we read about the Feast of the Unleavened Bread. And verses 8-10 were to remind the Israelites to tell their children why these things were done.
Indeed, these verses do share God’s instructions. Do you think God had expectations for the Israelites to carry out these instructions? Is this also a matter of obedience? Throughout this chapter we will see God directing the Israelites, Moses and Aaron again and again with expectation of obedience.
Does God ask for our obedience? Are there areas in your life where Holy Spirit is urging you to become more obedient to God’s calling?
Pray that God will help you as you seek discernment and a life of obedience to our Lord and Savior.
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These scriptures share God’s laws and rules that were to be followed in order to partake of the Passover. The chapter concludes by noting that the Israelites and those participating in the Passover did indeed observe and follow the command of the Lord; and were brought out of Egypt on that very day. Passover was to remind the Israelites of the coming of Christ who would become the sacrificial Lamb. After Jesus’ crucifixion, the Savior himself fulfilled the law.
Gratitude and hope come to my mind when I think of Passover. The hope of Jesus and the gratitude of His obedience to the cross that allowed us to be children of God, should cause me to glorify God in all my ways. And yet, I find myself falling short everyday. How do you glorify God? What areas of your life find you struggling to glorify God? Join me in prayer as we ask our Heavenly Father to deepen our walk with Him and help us to become more humble, less prideful, slow to anger, exhibiting a controlled tongue, extinguishing unbecoming thoughts, more selfless and a true servant as we share our Christian witness.
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After exactly to the day, four hundred, thirty years of living in Egypt under slavery, brutality, hunger, watching loved ones beaten, tortured, and die, and now the Israelites are FREE! The Lord had kept vigil, guarded, and protected them that first Passover night to bring them out safely. Not one hand was laid on the Israelites. They were obedient to the instructions they received from God through Moses and Aaron. They walked out freely with God protecting the exodus of the Israelites as He actively guarded them to safe passage. The Israelites honored and praised the Lord for their deliverance that night and for generations to come.
Do you find yourself a slave to anything in life?
Perhaps you find yourself bound by your job, house, children, friends, or even your church.
Has God changed? Absolutely not!
Thank God that He is actively keeping vigil over you and ask Him to free you from any bondage in which you are trapped. He’s ready, willing, and anxiously waiting to hear you.
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Think of the shear dynamics of moving 600,000 men plus women, children, multitudes of other people, livestock, flocks, and herds with their departure…their exodus.
What are some questions that loom in your mind regarding their hasty departure and journey in the wilderness?
What prayers do you think they cried out to God?
Were they filled with wonder?
Do you think joy or fear gripped them?
Who do you think were the mixed multitudes? Maybe those who had been touched by God’s people and their faith, or maybe some who had somehow become slaves, although not Jewish, and took this chance to leave Egypt?
Try to imagine yourself as a sojourner with the Israelites. Sometimes we’re called to situations with little guidance, direction, and few answers. How do you handle these situations? Do you turn to God and ask Him to strengthen your trust and faith?
Do you worry about the future and what’s to come?
Pray that God will equip you for life situations and that you will fully trust Him as He guides you through your earthly life.
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September 2 – Exodus 12:33-36
The Egyptians were urgent with the people to send them out of the land in haste. For they said, “We shall all be dead.” The people took their dough before it was leavened, their kneading bowls being bound up in their cloaks on their shoulders. The people of Israel had also done as Moses told them, for they had asked the Egyptians for silver and gold jewelry and for clothing. And the LORD had given the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they let them have what they asked. Thus they plundered the Egyptians.
How quickly things changed for Pharaoh, the Egyptians, and the Israelites. These verses share how the Egyptians were URGENT in sending out the Israelites because they feared they too would die. God indeed blessed the Israelites with silver, gold, clothes, and items to sustain them. He recognized their obedience, and the scripture says He showed them favor.
Change…how quickly life can change with us also. Think of a time when life caught you by surprise with a sudden change. Did you find yourself reacting on bended knees and calling out to God for help? Or did you find yourself lost, wondering how you’d manage life as you tried to navigate forward? Matthew 28:20 says, “For lo, I am with you always”. This was Jesus’ promise to us.
www.christianity.com>bible says, “He is with us always through the presence of the Holy Spirit. Jesus is constantly and fully present with us. We are blessed to know that not only is He with us, but He also lives in us and works through us.”
How can you let Jesus live through you even in the midst of sudden unexpected life changing experiences?
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September 1 - Exodus 12: 29-32
At midnight the LORD struck down all the firstborn in the land ofEgypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sat on his throne to thefirstborn of the captive who was in the dungeon, and all the firstborn of thelivestock. And Pharaoh rose up in the night, he and all hisservants and all the Egyptians. And there was a great cry in Egypt, forthere was not a house where someone was not dead. Then he summonedMoses and Aaron by night and said, “Up, go out from among my people, bothyou and the people of Israel; and go, serve the LORD, as you havesaid. Take your flocks and your herds, as you have said, and begone, and bless me also!”
I can not fathom the horror of this event that took place at midnight in thesescriptures at God’s hand. As we reflecton these verses, we can take joy and comfort in the fact that God’s promisesare true and unfailing. Yet what a pricePharaoh and the Egyptians paid for Pharaoh’s selfishness, pride and brutalityover the people of Israel.
Do you suffer from selfishness, pride, harshness or unkindness? How do these attributes affect others aroundyou…your family, your friends, your workplace, your church, your Christianwitness? Pray today that God will begina work in you to bring forth humility, kindness, and selflessness in yourcharacter.
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August 31 – Exodus 12:21-28
21 Then Moses called all the elders of Israel and said to them, “Go and select lambs for yourselves according to your clans, and kill the Passover lamb. 22 Take a bunch of hyssop and dip it in the blood that is in the basin, and touch the lintel and the two doorposts with the blood that is in the basin. None of you shall go out of the door of his house until the morning. 23 For the Lord will pass through to strike the Egyptians, and when he sees the blood on the lintel and on the two doorposts, the Lord will pass over the door and will not allow the destroyer to enter your houses to strike you. 24 You shall observe this rite as a statute for you and for your sons forever. 25 And when you come to the land that the Lord will give you, as he has promised, you shall keep this service. 26 And when your children say to you, ‘What do you mean by this service?’ 27 you shall say, ‘It is the sacrifice of the Lord's Passover, for he passed over the houses of the people of Israel in Egypt, when he struck the Egyptians but spared our houses.’” And the people bowed their heads and worshiped.
28 Then the people of Israel went and did so; as the Lord had commanded Moses and Aaron, so they did.
I love that the children of Israel took this very seriously. They did what was commanded. Their obedience saved the lives of their children. How often do we do what God asks us to do but in a half-hearted way?
I have forever heard the phrase, “Little pictures have big ears.” It means to be careful what you say when little ones are around because they will hear it. They are constantly listening and watching what the adults in their life are doing and saying and they will learn from that and mimic it.
Recently I had a child of ten sitting in my Sunday School class when I was teaching. Way younger than those who are normally in my class since I teach a co-ed adult class. I talked to someone sitting near him later and heard that he might have looked like he wasn’t listening, but he certainly was and had a conversation later with the adults about some of what I said and how it applied to him.
Children are always listening. What are they hearing from you?
Would you be embarrassed if they repeated it or mimicked you and then told someone they learned that from you, or would you be proud?
It doesn’t matter if someone is listening and watching or not because God is watching, and He is truly the only one that matters.
Is there anything you need to do differently in your life considering these thoughts? I know I do. There is always room for improvement.
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God gives what seems like to us to be very strange instructions about not having anything leaven in the home for seven days and eating nothing leavened during this time. He even says twice that if anyone eats anything leavened, they will be cut off from the congregation of Israel. Those are very strong words, but obviously God had his reasons.
Why do you think God was so serious in His instructions?
This was to be a memorial for the coming generations. What do you do to remember and thank God for helping you escape from the clutches of Satan and sin?
Heavenly Father, we don’t have to understand everything You do or all the instructions You give us to be obedient. I know You were trying to show the people how very serious of a situation obedience is and continues to be today. I can’t imagine how difficult it was to corral that many people for forty years through the wilderness and obedience had to be an important factor in keeping them moving in the direction You had for them. We see soon how easy they forgot Your instructions. I too, forget You way too often. I forget Your instructions, I forget to thank You, I forget to praise You. Help me be better at loving You and showing my love for You to You, but also to those around so they can begin to see what a loving and gracious God You are. You are gracious because You knew how difficult we would be and still chose to create us. Thank You for loving us so deeply. Thank You for putting up with me, Father, because daily I am unlovable. Help me reflect You better. On my good days and especially my bad days, I should be a reflection of You. Forgive me the many times I fail You. Help me to love those who are hurting around me and not just see their sin as sin. Help me see their sin and actions as a cry for help, prayer and love, rather than criticism, judgment, and correction. Help me be You to those around me.
In Jesus’ name.
Amen!
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August 29 – Exodus 12:1-13
The Lord said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, 2 “This month shall be for you the beginning of months. It shall be the first month of the year for you. 3 Tell all the congregation of Israel that on the tenth day of this month every man shall take a lamb according to their fathers' houses, a lamb for a household. 4 And if the household is too small for a lamb, then he and his nearest neighbor shall take according to the number of persons; according to what each can eat you shall make your count for the lamb. 5 Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male a year old. You may take it from the sheep or from the goats, 6 and you shall keep it until the fourteenth day of this month, when the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill their lambs at twilight.[a]
7 “Then they shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and the lintel of the houses in which they eat it. 8 They shall eat the flesh that night, roasted on the fire; with unleavened bread and bitter herbs they shall eat it. 9 Do not eat any of it raw or boiled in water, but roasted, its head with its legs and its inner parts. 10 And you shall let none of it remain until the morning; anything that remains until the morning you shall burn. 11 In this manner you shall eat it: with your belt fastened, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand. And you shall eat it in haste. It is the Lord's Passover. 12 For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and I will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and on all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments: I am the Lord. 13 The blood shall be a sign for you, on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you, when I strike the land of Egypt.
The picture that is drawn here in these verses is one that is symbolic, but extremely significant to those of us who trust in Jesus.
The 10th day as described here lines up later when the children of Israel celebrate Passover in Jerusalem with the Sunday prior to Passover. This was Palm Sunday the year that Jesus was crucified. This was the day the Passover Lamb was selected by the family for that year’s sacrificial lamb. They kept the lamb separate from the other livestock to be sure once it was selected as being the best and without blemish, that it remained unharmed and without any change. Their way of keeping it safe was to keep it in the house with them. You know the children bonded with this lamb in the four days they kept it. It only takes about four seconds for a child to bond with an animal, so having one for four days in their home, caring for it and loving it, would have made the sacrifice of the lamb on the fourteenth day even more personal and difficult.
This fourteenth day lines up with the day before the beginning Passover, or Thursday, which was the day Jesus was arrested and put on trial.
I believe God wanted us to see and feel in a very personal way the sacrifice that was made in the giving of Jesus’ life. He is that sacrificial lamb that was perfect, without a single blemish. He was sacrificed for our sins, just like the lamb was sacrificed each year at Passover following their flee from Egypt.
The blood above and on the sides of the doorway also symbolize the coming cross where the blood of our Savior was shed.
All those many years they were celebrating the coming Messiah and His sacrifice and had no idea that it was foreshadowing Jesus’ death.
Isn’t God amazing?
Would you shed more tears at the thought of the sacrifice of a young lamb, or a cute puppy, than you do at the torture and sacrifice of Jesus?
Have we become numb to what Jesus did for us?
Thank God today for this revelation and for what Jesus did for you and for me.
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August 28 – Exodus 11:1-10
The Lord said to Moses, “Yet one plague more I will bring upon Pharaoh and upon Egypt. Afterward he will let you go from here. When he lets you go, he will drive you away completely. 2 Speak now in the hearing of the people, that they ask, every man of his neighbor and every woman of her neighbor, for silver and gold jewelry.”
3 And the Lord gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover, the man Moses was very great in the land of Egypt, in the sight of Pharaoh's servants and in the sight of the people.
4 So Moses said, “Thus says the Lord: ‘About midnight I will go out in the midst of Egypt, 5 and every firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sits on his throne, even to the firstborn of
the slave girl who is behind the handmill, and all the firstborn of the cattle. 6 There shall be a great cry throughout all the land of Egypt, such as there has never been, nor ever will be again. 7 But not a dog shall growl against any of the people of Israel, either man or beast, that you may know that the Lord makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel.’
8 And all these your servants shall come down to me and bow down to me, saying, ‘Get out, you and all the people who follow you.’ And after that I will go out.” And he went out from Pharaoh in hot anger. 9 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Pharaoh will not listen to you, that my wonders may be multiplied in the land of Egypt.”
10 Moses and Aaron did all these wonders before Pharaoh, and the Lord hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he did not let the people of Israel go out of his land.
God brought ten plagues on Egypt before Pharaoh finally gave in. What lengths must God go to before He gets your attention?
God in His infinite power can bring blessings to us even through our enemies. He gave the children of Israel favor in the sight of the Egyptians and they gave up many riches to the children of Israel. They must have felt very weakened and vulnerable to give up all they did. God has no limits to His power and how He can bless us if we allow Him to. Our obedience is needed to see all God can do for us. Our obedience doesn’t guarantee us an easy life, but it does promise us the best relationship with our Lord, which gives us the best life, if not the easiest.
What do you see as the difference between an easy life and the best life?
What changes do you need to make today to have your best life?
Heavenly Father, I want to have the best possible life with You at the helm. I know that doesn’t mean it will be easy. As a matter of fact, Jesus promised we would have trouble in John at the last supper when He said, “when you have trouble”. He didn’t say, “if”, but “when”. But He did say He had already overcome the world and that we would never be alone. That gives me the best chance for my best life. I want that best life with You carrying me, teaching me, loving me, and yes sometimes scolding me, to keep in the right place with You, so I can have the life You have planned for me. Thank You, Father that my past doesn’t keep me from having a great future with You. Help me to focus on the future You have for me, not the one the world says is available, or my family and friends say I am destined to have, but the one You have for me. Because I know Your opinion of me and what I can do is the only opinion that matters.
In Jesus’ name.
Amen!
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Exodus 10:21-29
21 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, a darkness to be felt.” 22 So Moses stretched out his hand toward heaven, and there was pitch darkness in all the land of Egypt three days. 23 They did not see one another, nor did anyone rise from his place for three days, but all the people of Israel had light where they lived. 24 Then Pharaoh called Moses and said, “Go, serve the Lord; your little ones also may go with you; only let your flocks and your herds remain behind.” 25 But Moses said, “You must also let us have sacrifices and burnt offerings, that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God. 26 Our livestock also must go with us; not a hoof shall be left behind, for we must take of them to serve the Lord our God, and we do not know with what we must serve the Lord until we arrive there.” 27 But the Lord hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he would not let them go. 28 Then Pharaoh said to him, “Get away from me; take care never to see my face again, for on the day you see my face you shall die.” 29 Moses said, “As you say! I will not see your face again.”
Pharaoh tried to bargain with God saying the men and even the children could go but not the livestock. How often do we try to bargain with God or as Pharaoh ended up doing, just turning away altogether so we didn’t have to face our disobedience? How often do we try to be obedient by being “partway” obedient so we can say we did our part, but God requires our full obedience. Often our pride, like Pharaoh’s pride, gets in the way of being in the place where God wants us so He can bless us.
How often does our pride and stubbornness bring destruction not only on us, but those in our lives that depend on us?
Don’t let pride come between you and God. His power can be great or devastating, and I personally like having Him on my side and having that power protecting me.
Heavenly Father, help me to not allow my pride and stubbornness to get in the way of hearing You and following You. I know it has in the past, and I don’t want to allow that anymore. Help me see truth and not only the truth of the past, as I see in these verses, but the truth of what I need to be doing for You to bring glory and praise to Your name. Help me put myself in the backseat and allow You to guide me to Your best. Help me keep You as my focus. My faith is strong, but my flesh is often weak. Please strengthen me with Your strength that is able to combat anything, even my own desires. Thank You for allowing me the wonderful opportunity to share You with others.
In Jesus’ name.
Amen!
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Exodus 10:12-20
12 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand over the land of Egypt for the locusts, so that they may come upon the land of Egypt and eat every plant in the land, all that the hail has left.”
13 So Moses stretched out his staff over the land of Egypt, and the Lord brought an east wind upon the land all that day and all that night. When it was morning, the east wind had brought the locusts.
14 The locusts came up over all the land of Egypt and settled on the whole country of Egypt, such a dense swarm of locusts as had never been before, nor ever will be again.
15 They covered the face of the whole land, so that the land was darkened, and they ate all the plants in the land and all the fruit of the trees that the hail had left. Not a green thing remained, neither tree nor plant of the field, through all the land of Egypt.
16 Then Pharaoh hastily called Moses and Aaron and said, “I have sinned against the Lord your God, and against you.
17 Now therefore, forgive my sin, please, only this once, and plead with the Lord your God only to remove this death from me.”
18 So he went out from Pharaoh and pleaded with the Lord.
19 And the Lord turned the wind into a very strong west wind, which lifted the locusts and drove them into the Red Sea. Not a single locust was left in all the country of Egypt.
20 But the Lord hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he did not let the people of Israel go.
I love how God teaches me something new every single day. I re-read some of these passages that we have looked at the last few days and I saw that God hardened Pharaoh’s heart so He could show His power to all the people of the land so they would have no excuse to not believe in Him. Also, I think this was a time that Moses would be reminding them of what God had done to get them out of Egypt. They were going to have some rough days ahead and Moses would need to remind them of God’s power and the love He portrayed in the process of dealing with Pharaoh and the Egyptians.
Are there ever days you need to be reminded of what God has done for you in the past? I know I do. I hate to admit it, but there are many times I temporarily forget because I am so focused on how frustrating things are and all I can see is what is right in front of me.
I wish I could say I was better than the people of Israel and always remember God’s blessings, but I would have had some of the same struggles. We are human. We struggle. One way to help combat these momentary times of “forgetfulness” is to keep a gratitude journal.
Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding me of not only Your goodness and love, but how powerful You are and how often You use that power to protect me. Please forgive me when I am forgetful because life seems to become difficult. Help me remember how much You love me and the many times You have shown it in such a mighty way. Thank You for loving me in those times I am so very unlovable. Thank You for being so patient with me and loving me through these hard times. Thank You, Father for who You are. The Creator, The Healer, The Comforter, the Lord of lords, King of Kings, my Master, my Savior, and the one I love most!
In Jesus’ name.
Amen!
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We are finally seeing the servants of Pharaoh tiring of the punishment they are receiving because of Pharaoh’s decisions, and they push him to let at least the men go to worship. Pharaoh agreed but this partial agreement isn’t what God promised the Israelites and they push back. He drives them away from him and we see they are stuck in the same spot. Have you ever felt stuck?
Maybe you feel there is a new path for you but you can’t seem to find your way to it, or God is calling you to a new ministry but there isn’t an opportunity to serve in your present environment. Be patient and prayerful. The wilderness isn’t a fun place but it can be a time of wonderful growth not only in you as a person, but in your relationship with God. Spend time in prayer and thank Him for whatever He is about to do next.
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I have to admit here that I struggle with the concept that God hardened Pharaoh’s heart and then dealt harshly with the Egyptians. I know they certainly had done many horrible things to the Israelites and certainly deserved God’s punishment, but I still don’t understand why it seems tied here to God hardening Pharaoh’s heart rather than their past actions. What I do know is that God is perfect and when He does something He certainly has His reasons. I know He loves us all, so I completely trust Him, even when I don’t understand Him.
Why do you think God hardened Pharaoh’s heart?
What purpose do you think it served in this “battle of the wills” we are witnessing?
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Here we go again. Pharaoh makes a promise and does the exact opposite of what he swears he will do.
Have you ever met someone who lies this easily?
Do you think Pharaoh intended to change his mind each time he promised to let them go, or do you think he really meant what he said and then changed his mind?
As a child we had someone in our life that my dad said you could tell when they were lying because their mouth was moving.
How sad it was that this person lied so easily that when they promised something you had absolutely no faith in them to follow through. There are many people in the world who are hypocrites. Even as believers we sometimes struggle to act on our promises. How fortunate we are that we have a God that is not only loving, but always keeps His word. If God says it, You can be sure He will do it. That is the kind of legacy we should leave as His children.
When you speak about Jesus and then are unreliable, you are tainting the name of Jesus. Commit to being a person of your word so that people can see the love of Jesus come through you.
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I have seen some pretty bad hailstorms in my life. I remember once when I lived in the Dallas area there was a storm that brought softball size hail. I saw windshields with huge holes in them and huge dents in the cars. In the area where it hit most homes had to have new roofs installed. But I have never seen fire rain down or hail so large and widespread that it destroyed entire trees and killed people and animals. I can’t imagine a storm like the one described here. God is so loving to His chosen people that He again protects them from this storm.
How could anyone go through even one of these plagues, much less all these plagues and not believe in God?
Why do you think God brought so many plagues and didn’t just destroy Pharaoh?
What have you seen God do that helped your faith and trust in Him grow?
Why do you think others can have the same experience and still not believe?
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This plague was definitely different than the previous ones. God gave a forewarning as well as instructions on how to protect themselves and their household. and the believers were able to protect their livestock and move all that they had in the field into a protective shelter before the plague struck.
This reminds me of the unbelievers in our world that will not listen to God’s truth. They, too, are being told what is coming. May we all be bold in spreading God’s truth so that no man may perish.
What is your role in spreading the Good News?
I have to address some questions that might come to mind. Where did the Egyptians get these animals since just two plagues ago they were all destroyed by God? If they took some livestock from the Israelites or purchased them from a source outside of Egypt, the other question you might have would be about the time period that lapsed as God brought these plagues on the people of Egypt.
I don’t know. I have done a little research, and no one else knows either. One source said the best guess is that the 10 plagues took place over a period not less than 5 weeks, but not more than a year.
Some tried to narrow it down to a more specific period of time, but the Bible isn’t specific. The main point God is making here is that He separated His chosen people from those in Egypt, but He also allowed those in Egypt who believed to be warned.
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This is the sixth plague that God brings upon Egypt. How many plagues before Pharaoh realizes the power of God and that he can’t win against God?
Even the magicians that had denounced God and worked to try to prove these plagues were nothing more than “magic” suffered from these boils to the point they couldn’t stand before Pharaoh.
Do you ever find sin keeping you from God?
The enemy would love nothing more than to use your past sin, that God has already forgiven, to keep you a prisoner. When we allow something to keep us from worshipping God, we are indeed prisoners.
Come to God with repentance in your heart, and I promise you will find forgiveness and love in the arms of Your Savior.
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This plague probably had a much bigger impact on the Egyptians than the previous plagues. Their cattle, horses, donkeys, camels, oxen and sheep were all dead. Here we see God not only protect His chosen people but also their livestock. Not only did this protection provide great wealth for the Israelites, it protected the animals that would be used for sacrifices to God. God loved His chosen people just as He loves us. He protected them during this plague and He continues to protect us today. How have you seen God’s protection on you? Has He protected your job? Your health? Your children? Thank God today for the protection He provides you daily.
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In this scripture passage, we see Pharaoh once again being less than honest. I think what I love most about this passage is that we are now seeing Moses step up and speak with Pharaoh.
How God has grown Moses!
Are you finding growth in your spiritual walk?
Ask God to grow your confidence and increase your desire to speak boldly with others about who God is to you.
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In this scripture passage we see God sending another plague for the people of Egypt. However, Moses makes it very clear that God would protect His chosen people from this disastrous plague.
What do you think God was trying to show Pharaoh?
Pharaoh had used the Israelites as slaves for many years. Verse 21 states “Thus I will put a division between my people and your people.”
What impact do you think this had on the enslaved Israelites, the people who had only known slavery?
Has God ever shown You favor because You are one of His children in a way that impacted not only Your life, but those around You?
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Another plague! This one is possibly more disgusting than the last. How can you breathe air that is filled with gnats? Even the magicians try to tell Pharaoh that this plague is the finger of God. Yet he refuses to listen, and his nation suffers through this plague. This behavior reminds me how my behavior can have an impact on others around me. Ask God to keep you mindful of your actions so that others see the light of Christ shining through you.
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Oh, boy. This certainly sounds familiar to me. He asks Moses to intervene with God on his behalf. Moses does. God rids the land of the frogs. Pharaoh responds with a hardened heart.
How many times have I attempted to bargain with God? “God, please get me out of this situation and I promise I will never do this again.” I have prayed those words. Now that I am older and in closer relationship with God, I realize God is in control and I need to respectfully live in a manner that honors Him. God is not my magic lamp. He loves me and wants what is best for me. I can only know what He wants for me as I spend time with Him daily.
Have you found this to be true in your own personal walk?
Ask God to give you spiritual eyes and ears to see and listen only to Him.
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I cannot even imagine how it would be to have a houseful of frogs. The scripture says the frogs covered the land of Egypt and yet Pharaoh did not change his behavior. The plague that enveloped the land of Egypt appeared in the form of frogs but the true plague was the heart condition of Pharaoh.
Do you have a loved one or friend that is suffering because of the condition of their heart? Are they unable to let go of their past hurts, their need to control everything, their anger?
Ask God today to be used by Him in this person’s life. God loves them and it is possible He can use you to bring His love to them.
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I love how God totally prepares Moses for what is about to unfold. Moses, who tried so hard to convince God that he wasn’t the man for the job, probably gained encouragement from the preparation God gave him.
God does the same for us daily.
What is God preparing you for today? Keep your spiritual eyes and ears open. He will use you in a mighty way, just as He used Moses. What a mighty God we serve.
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Yet again, Moses and Aaron are instructed by God to go to Pharaoh even though God told them that Pharaoh’s heart would be hardened. God knew that the miracles performed by Aaron would not change this man’s heart.
It is so easy for us as humans to live with a hardened heart. I know. I spent five years or so with a very hard heart toward a family member. I remember praying faithfully that God would change this person as soon as possible. Instead, God convicted me of my sin and taught me not to pray for change in the other person, but a change in my own heart. I spent a few years convicted and praying this prayer many times a day.
He answered me. This was not a miracle of Biblical proportions but a Biblical lesson for me. Are you dealing with a hardened heart toward a situation or another person? Ask God to reach deep within your hardened heart and cleanse you and convict you of your hardened heart. Only then can your heart be made right with God.
Debbie
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Once again we see God encouraging Moses as He tells him exactly what to do as he and Aaron approach Pharaoh. He warns Moses that Pharaoh’s heart will be hardened and he will not listen. God tells Moses that He will increase his powers of destruction on Egypt and that His people, the children of Israel, will be brought out of Egypt. Moses, 80 years old, and Aaron, 83 years old did as God had commanded and once again were found to be obedient. I love how God continues to encourage both Moses and Aaron while laying out His plan repeatedly. We see obedience and service even at ages we would consider as being ‘seniors’. My excuses of being too old, too tired, too goofy…too…too… too…whatever…do not exemplify obedience. Think of areas where you can serve and be a witness for Christ. What’s holding you back? Pray that God will show you how and where to serve and trust that He will equip you to carry out His will.
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This passage shares the names of the tribes of Israel and concludes with God speaking once again to Moses telling him to approach Pharaoh with God’s words.
Moses feels unworthy and unclean stating he is uncircumcised and doubting that Pharaoh will listen to him.
This is a perfect example of how God uses those who love Him regardless of their cleanliness, background, parents, thoughts of worth, education, wealth, lack of wealth or status, etc.
Once again, God does not call us to be perfect to be used for His Kingdom. He only calls us to be obedient. Just as God equipped Moses, He will also equip us when He calls us.
What is God calling you to do for Kingdom purposes?
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In this passage, we see God once again speaking to Moses reassuring that He sees and understand the conditions of the Israelites as they are enslaved by the Egyptians, but His promise is true.
The people did not listen as Moses tried to assure them that God would lead them from Egypt into the Promised Land. God prompted Moses to go to Pharaoh once again asking that the people of Israel be brought out of the land of Egypt.
Can you blame the people of Israel for grumbling and not trusting Moses? Have you ever found yourself in a situation where something is promised and not delivered? Perhaps you’d done everything right, said the right things, and done your best only to be disappointed.
Often the word ‘defeated’ hardly describes your feelings. If you are feeling weary from life’s situations, ask God to give you direction. Pray for those who have broken promises. Pray that your situation will improve and ask God to give you endurance and guidance. John 16:33 gives such promise of our future as Christians, “In this world we will have troubles, but take heart, I have overcome the world’. Jesus gives us peace and is our promise to salvation and everlasting life.
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The Israelites spoke truth to the situation they were now encountering. Do you blame them for calling out Moses and Aaron?
What would you have done?
Even Moses turned to the Lord and questioned why he had been sent before Pharaoh only for the Israelites to endure more evil and punishment. Thankfully Moses turned to God first even if it was in a questioning manner.
How often I try to resolve a problem, situation or a simple issue on my own without seeking guidance from God. Sometimes we suffer retaliation or persecution. Where do we go first? Ask God to help you seek Him and His guidance in all situations. The answer may not be immediate but remember that He’s in the midst of the storm with you as you practice faith, trust and obedience. You’re never alone.
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Moses and Aaron obeyed God’s command to approach Pharaoh only for Pharaoh to retaliate causing the Israelites to suffer even more afflictions. Their fear of Pharaoh not responding in a positive way had proven to be right. How do you think this left Moses and Aaron feeling?
Do you think they felt responsible for the Israelites’ pain?
They had followed God’s exact commands and yet Pharaoh imposed more suffering on them. Do you think they wondered where God was?
Have you prayed for something or someone and felt as if God has not heard you?
Think of it this way: you see something online that you want to order. Sometimes the order is shipped immediately. Other times your shipment is promised in a week, two weeks, or maybe even a month. Sometimes you’re told your item is no longer available and you will not be receiving it.
God always answers our prayers. Sometimes the answer is immediate, other times we are called to wait and yet other times, the answer is no.
It’s not until we are on the other side of the situation that we always understand why the answer is no. Quite possibly, we may not understand the answer until we get to Heaven.
Remember, regardless of the timing, God is in the situation and in every detail. Continue to pray with faithfulness and trust that God hears you. We may not understand the answer but be assured God wants only the best for you.
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This makes me want to shout, “Hallelujah!” Not only are Moses and Aaron reunited, but God also fulfills his promise to Moses. I love how the people of Israel believed Moses, were touched that GOD had seen them in their affliction, and then WORSHIPPED! Yes, God sees us in our affliction. He is no stranger to pain, hurt and sorrow. He’s experienced it all. Our God is not a God of coincidence. He’s an intentional God full of power, grace, mercy, all knowing, all hearing, all-everything! Call out to Him today in prayer and worship. Just as we are anxious to hear from our earthly children, God delights in hearing from us. What are you waiting for? He’s longing to hear your voice calling out His name in praise.
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These verses can be very confusing. It is difficult sometimes to understand why God does what He does. Why would He call Moses to free His people and turn around and try to kill him? Is God one to change His mind or decide to change His plan midstream? No way! God is a consistent and gracious God, but He also demands obedience. The word “sin” comes from an archery term and means “misses the mark”. So, when God sees us miss the mark, or sin, He has to call us out, especially in those He is sending in to do His work. Moses was facing a huge battle in going to Pharoh on behalf of God to free the Israelites. God wanted Moses to go in fully committed and without anything that would keep Moses from carrying out His plan. This disobedience of not having his own son circumcised, was sin and God needed it taken care of prior to this battle with Pharoh, which let’s face it was really a battle with Satan. His wife was able to see the issue and took care of the problem.
How often are we too focused on one thing that we don’t see where God might be trying to get our attention on a completely different area?
How often can those around us help us get back on track, but sometimes we think we have it and don’t need help.
God speaks to us today in many ways, but primarily through His Word, the Holy Spirit, circumstances, and other people. Be open to hear God’s voice even if it comes in a way you aren’t expecting.
Don’t let obedience keep you from doing something great for God.
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This passage leaves me pondering how I would have reacted if I were in Moses’ place. I can see myself looking around and saying, “Who me? Did you not see my sister who is smarter, wiser, and more eloquent in speech? Why me Lord?” And then my next thought is, hello Moses, it’s God speaking to you! I’d like to think I would have responded quickly, without question and with pure motives in obedience, but I’m not sure. As a parent, we often deal with our children questioning our directions or commands. Just as we sometimes have ‘enough’, God had enough and said, “Just do it!” However, as he was telling Moses to “just do it” he reassured him with these words at the end of the passage.
“Is there not Aaron, your brother, the Levite? I know that he can speak well. Behold, he is coming out to meet you, and when he sees you, he will be glad in his heart. 15 You shall speak to him and put the words in his mouth, and I will be with your mouth and with his mouth and will teach you both what to do. 16 He shall speak for you to the people, and he shall be your mouth, and you shall be as God to him. 17 And take in your hand this staff, with which you shall do the signs.”
God was going to be with him and Aaron, putting the words in their mouths and teaching them what to do. What an amazing promise and reassurance. Through God’s Word we can continue to learn what to do in ‘life’ situations. The Bible is our compass and recipe for life. Are there specific areas in your life where you know God needs to teach you? Pray for direction and ask The Holy Spirit to guide you as you seek to become more like Christ and become light in the darkness. God is waiting to hear from you. He wants to teach you and mold you.
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Moses continued to doubt his effectiveness. What does God ask him to do?
What do you think Moses’ feelings/emotions are during God’s wonders? How must it have been to actually hear God’s voice?
God gave Moses a final command to carry out if the Egyptians did not believe him. He was told to take water from the Nile, pour it on the ground and see the water become blood.
As merciful and gracious as God is, he did not want his people suffering affliction and persecution and took drastic measures.
God expected Moses to be obedient. He calls us to be obedient as well.
As you reflect on God’s grace and mercy, what steps can you take to become more obedient?
Pray for The Holy Spirit to direct your mind, thoughts, actions, and words as you strive to decrease yourself and increase in God.
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Moses shared his concerns with God regarding how the Israelites might respond to his message. God graciously shared specific directions on how to carry out his request. He also reassured Moses that the people would listen to his voice. God told how he saw the afflictions the Israelites had endured from Egypt and gave the amazing promise of eventual freedom. He told Moses it would not be an easy task, but he would strike Egypt with all His wonders. As we continue to read on in the following chapters, we will see God’s provisions again and again. How does it make you feel to know that God sees all our afflictions, troubles, worries, and concerns? He not only sees them, but he’s there with us through the problems. I’m often comforted by the hymn, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in his wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace.” Are there worries, troubles and concerns that you’re dealing with today? Trust God as you pray for your situation and know that He’s already there.
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How often does God ask you to do something and your response is surprise and denial you are capable? If God asks us to do something, He will definitely give us the ability. He knows what we are capable of doing and He knows our heart. Our attitude about working for the Lord is much more important than our skills. God is the one who gave us every ability we have, so He knows best what He can use us for in His Kingdom.
What might God be asking you to do today that is out of your comfort zone? Pray for guidance, strength, and willingness to step out in faith and follow your Father.
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We see here that Moses is afraid to look at God. Is it because he fears he will die if he looks at God, or could it be he thinks he isn’t good enough to look at God? Both are true, but I wonder what was going through his mind.
Does God still speak today?
I haven’t personally seen any burning bushes, but I do feel His prompting often and hear Him speak to me at times.
Why do you think He speaks to us differently today than He did in the Old Testament?
If you haven’t heard God talk to you, don’t forget He talks through other people, circumstances, His Word and the Holy Spirit. Don’t forget to listen for His still small voice. Be sure You are listening for When God Whispers!
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Over 400 years have passed since the children of Israel moved to Egypt. And as we find them here, even in the worst of times, God is there and hears their cries. He hears our cries. He knows what we are going through, and He has a plan. I know sometimes it seems that it takes forever to see Him move the direction we want, and sometimes He moves in a totally different direction, but when He moves, it is always in the best way, at the best time. It might not be the easiest, as we will see as we continue in these verses, but God’s plan is always best.
Think about the things that are easy, though. They are seldom worth the time spent. It is those things that are tough, and the hard-won battles that teach us the most, and bring us to the best place.
What are you battling today that you need relief from and only God can help? Cry out to Him. He hears you.
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No matter who is around, our sins will be found out. Even if we “get away with it”, God knows, and we will be called to account for what we do. We are saved by grace, but that doesn’t mean we don’t need to ask for forgiveness and repent. Moses ran. How often do you find yourself running from God when you just don’t want to face what you’ve done? I know I have done so in the past and it never pays. It just draws it out and makes it much more difficult to face later.
Ask God to forgive you for things that are coming between you and God. Don’t let your relationship with Him suffer because you don’t want to face the truth. He is truly a loving and forgiving God and He already knows about it, so no use trying to pretend.
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What an amazing story of God’s grace and how He took care of this child that He knew would free His people someday.
How many times do we think something is a coincidence when it is God arranging things for His plan and His glory? I love it when God shows off and shows what an amazing God He is. He does it every single day, but so often we aren’t looking and listening for miracles because of the noise of life.
Take time today to just talk to God and listen for His whisper. He has amazing things to tell you and amazing ways He wants to use you.
Recently my 7-year-old granddaughter, Emma was staying with us and I heard her talking away while playing. I asked her who she was talking to because no one was with her. She said, “I’m just talking to myself. No one has to listen.” It made me wonder how often God is talking to me and I’m just not listening.
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We see here that the new king of Egypt feared the Hebrews as they grew in number to the point he was willing to have their male babies murdered.
What do you think he really feared?
Have you ever feared what you don’t understand? Or maybe its change you fear?
Can you imagine fearing something or someone enough to murder babies? Yet that is what we do daily, we just call it a medical procedure.
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We see in these verses that things changed for the children of Israel and over time became almost unbearable. This period of time was 430 years, which might seem like a long time, but for the changes that occurred, I’m sure they felt their lives had been turned upside down. They were saved from death during the famine, but now they were facing slavery, forced labor, harsh circumstances and as we will soon see, loss of life.
We are so fortunate in the US, that most of us won’t face these things, but there are many people in the world that face some of these same things today. Thank God for how He takes care of you today. Pray for those who are living in unbearable situations. Praise God for something specific He has done for you that you know you don’t deserve.
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Joseph had never given his brothers any indication that he would go back on his word of peace and forgiveness, but they feared he would do just that. Where do you think these fears come from?
Why do we so often rely more on our emotions & feelings than on what we know to be true?
How can we combat this tendency?
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It doesn’t matter how long you know that a loved one is going to die, it is never easy. We see here that they spent many days mourning for Jacob and followed Jacob’s requests for his burial. It is interesting that Joseph is the one that carried out his father’s wishes. Maybe because they had so many years without contact, these last years together were extra special. They had a bond the first years of Joseph’s life and it doesn’t seem that changed with the time spent apart.
Think about those that mean so much to you. Tell them how special they are while you can.
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Joseph assumed his father was confused when he was giving the firstborn blessing to the second born son, but Jacob knew what he was doing. He wasn’t confused at all. God revealed enough to Jacob for him to change the order of blessing.
We can’t always know how God is going to use our children and how our children might glorify God, but God does.
What can we do other than raise our children up to truly know Jesus and see Jesus living in us? Pray. Pray without ceasing. Not only for our children, but their children. Pray for the ones they will marry and how God will use them and pray they will choose to glorify God with their talents and gifts that God Himself gave them.
Prayer is the one thing we can always do. It doesn’t matter if we are sick, disabled, sad, busy, no matter what our circumstances, we can pray without ceasing.
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Blessings of the sons was a very important thing in the culture of Israel. Why do you think he blessed Joseph’s sons in this way?
Can you think of families who treat the oldest or any grandchildren in a similar fashion? I thought of royal families and how the oldest had significance and responsibility.
Are there families in normal society that treat the oldest differently still today? Why or why not?
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The children of Israel prospered because of the plan God had carried out through Joseph. Jacob, also called Israel in these verses, called on Joseph to carry out his wishes upon his death.
He knew he could trust Joseph to be certain his father’s desires were honored.
Why do you think Jacob trusted Joseph so much? He hadn’t spent lots of time with him since they had been separated for years.
Trust is so important in family relationships. May you find yourself trustworthy day after day.
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I find this so interesting. Joseph, not an Egyptian, sold into slavery, and imprisoned in Egypt for years because of an Egyptian who lied about him. But here he acted out of great concern for the Egyptians, basically saving their lives. Jospeh looked out for the welfare of the starving Egyptians. He was a sojourner with a heart of love for these people. Maybe Joseph was hoping they would come to know God. How can you show concern for those when you don’t share things in common?
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Isn’t our God good? Not only were the family members to be set apart from the Egyptians, but they were given the best land available. What a blessing!
God continually blesses us, but we don’t always see it at the time. How has God blessed you that you might not have realized it was God?
Take time today to thank God for the numerous blessings you have and for the blessings to come. God is so good to us.
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Again, we see Joseph blessed with wisdom. He knew exactly what his brothers should say to Pharoah when questioned about their occupation. The Egyptians had a great distaste for shepherds. This distaste for shepherds would allow the family of Jacob to live apart from the Egyptians. This separation would allow the family to maintain their religious beliefs and practices. They would not be immersed in the Egyptian culture and pagan religious practices.
Have you thought about how you live your life and the need for distinctions in your lifestyle so that you, too, would be set apart?
What things of the world do you allow into your life that maybe you should turn away?
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Think about good things that can come from stress and trials in life. Someone we love can come to know Jesus because they saw us go through a difficult time and we leaned into Jesus through it. We can see someone that had strayed and drifted away from God, come back strong and fired up for Jesus. There are so many good things that can come out of tough times. That is where we can find joy.
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What a family reunion! Can you imagine the excitement that Jacob felt as he traveled this distance to see a son he had not seen in decades, a son he believed to be dead?
Read the reassurance God had given Jacob. “Do not be afraid to go to Egypt. I will be with you.”
This is probably in reference to Genesis 26:2 when God spoke to Isaac, The LORD appeared to Isaac and said, “Do not go down to Egypt; live in the land where I tell you to live.” Jacob did not want to be disobedient, and God offered great reassurance to Jacob.
I love that God assured Jacob “… and Joseph's hand shall close your eyes.” Death would come and Jacob would be surrounded by his family. What a sweet promise from God.
Are you trusting in God to deliver on His promises?
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It is interesting to note that Joseph’s parting words to his brothers were, “Do not quarrel on the way.” Joseph had offered his brothers tremendous grace. He did not bring up the past and hurl accusations at his brothers. Instead, he offered them grace and let them know that what they meant for harm was used for good by God.
How important it is to extend grace.
How difficult it is to extend grace to someone that has brought difficulty into your life.
The next time someone offends you, remember Joseph and how he handled this amazing time with his brothers.
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Oh, the wisdom of this passage. Joseph knew that God had planned for this to unfold so that he could be used of God.
I love how he reassures his brothers. Verse 5 says, “And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life.”
I cannot begin to imagine the rejoicing that was going to occur!
How is God using you and me today to complete His plan in the life of another?
Sometimes the trials in our life can later be seen as victories for God. Find joy in the work God is doing through You.
Keep your spiritual eyes open and obey. Let’s see what He has in store for our loved ones.
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Jacob clearly had shown favoritism throughout his life. It seems the jealousy of the brothers is what drove the brothers to sell Joseph into slavery.
Have you ever dealt with jealousy so severely that it caused you to act in a way that you felt shame later?
How hard is it to love imperfect people?
Aren’t we tasked with that daily?
However, Judah was committed to his father and did not want to return to Canaan without Benjamin, the youngest brother.
Judah loved his father and was willing to accept the consequences for the act of theft.
Pray today for the imperfect people God places in your life daily. Ask God to give you the ability to love every person you encounter. After all, we are all made in the image of God.
I love this quote, “You will never look into the eyes of someone God does not love…be kind.”
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Again, deceit is used. Joseph set up this difficult situation.
Is it possible that Joseph was trying to discover where his brothers’ hearts were? Were they sorrowful for all the wrong they had dealt Joseph in his younger years?
Once confronted with the wrongdoing, “They tore their clothes, and every mans loaded his donkey; and they returned to the city.”
If we could be even half as sorrowful for our wrong doings today. What a different world we would be living in if our sin truly drove us to such sorrow. Is there an action in your past that still grieves your heart? Are you sorry for a past wrong that you committed? Take it to Jesus today and pray for courage to ask forgiveness from those you wronged.
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I just can’t help but think of how very unkind these brothers had been to Joseph. I also marvel at the continued kindness Joseph showed them. It also amazes me that God had given the ability to Joseph to know who these men were. He was able to breathe a sigh of relief about Jacob and laid eyes on Benjamin. He was so overcome by great emotion. This just warmed my heart as well. How is this possible?
Only through God and His most excellent plan was Joseph’s sorrow made good.
Are you struggling with forgiving a wrongdoing that you have endured for years? Is this pain so great that at times it becomes unbearable? Take it to God and lay it at His feet.
Rejoice in what He did for Joseph and know He loves you just as He loved Joseph. Ask God for the ability and desire to forgive. His plan is perfect.
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Why do you think the brothers were frightened when they each found their bundle of money in their sacks?
Reuben was anxious to follow the orders given by Joseph. What did he suggest as an offering to his father to allow Benjamin to go with him to Egypt?
What does this show you about Rueben?
How did Jacob respond to the request?
Sometimes the loss of a loved one, friend, home or job can leave us in such sorrow that we may feel frozen and unable to carry on.
God is not a stranger to loss and death. He sent his only Son to die and bear our sins.
Pray today that if you are gripped by grief of someone or something that God will heal your heart and you can once again experience joy.
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Have you ever come across a child who tries to pull up to the couch, coffee table or sometimes a dog, like my grandson likes to do, falls, and then just sits there and never tries again? No, they want to walk bad enough to keep trying. How bad do you want to honor God? Is it a burning desire? Sometimes that desire is what keeps us moving forward and keep trying beyond quitting points. Beyond the falls, scrapes, and bruises.
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It appears that Reuben has carried the guilt for Joseph’s misfortune and feels the time of reckoning has come. What emotions do you think Reuben and the brothers are experiencing?
Do you think Joseph’s tears are an expression of grief, sorrow, joy or gladness?
Do you find it interesting that he seems to seek no revenge?
Even though he binds and keeps Simeon imprisoned near him, he returned the brothers’ money and gives them provisions until they return with the youngest brother.
Reread the scriptures and think of how you’d feel if you were one of the brothers.
The unfolding of these scriptures continues to show us God’s love demonstrated through Joseph.
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How God blessed Joseph during times of difficulty and plenty!
God has not changed. He continues to show his faithfulness to us daily.
How has God blessed you in the past and how does He continue to bless you today?
During this dreadful heat wave in Texas, I’m reminded that simply finding a parking space close to my destination is not a coincidence, but a God Wink saying, “here you go! I love you more than you can ever imagine!”
Find the small ways and the big ways that God shows His love to you every single day and thank Him for His lovingkindness.
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In verse 33, Joseph advised Pharaoh, “therefore let Pharaoh select a discerning and wise man and set him over the land of Egypt.” When Joseph advised Pharaoh to find a discerning and wise man to oversee the land, do you think his suggestion had any motive or was he simply sharing what God had shared with him?
Although we don’t know what Joseph had in mind, we can certainly see what God has planned in the coming verses. His plan not only protects Joseph, and Joseph’s family, but God uses Joseph to do these things and much more.
Have you ever helped someone and expected something in return? Let us go forth with no agendas as we show God’s love and kindness helping those, He places in front of us.
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Growth isn’t easy, but it is necessary. If we aren’t growing, we are dying. Maybe not physically, but if we aren’t using the brain, muscles, talents, that God has given us, we lose those talents.
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Joseph’s interpretation of the chief cupbearer and chief baker’s dreams were accurate. He requested that he be remembered to Pharaoh to see if he could be freed. The chief cupbearer did not remember Joseph when he resumed his position. What disappointment Joseph must have endured.
Have you ever shown kindness to a relative, friend, or acquaintance only to be forgotten?
How did you feel?
Sometimes doing what is right is not easy or remembered.
I often told my children when growing up, “It is always right to do what is right?” God sees your obedience and you are not forgotten by Him.
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What a beautiful story of God’s faithfulness and steadfast love. Although imprisoned, Joseph was once again found to show leadership and God blessed him as he was put in charge of all prisoners.
Think of a time when life seemed difficult or even desperate to you.
Did you call out to God?
Did you remain faithful to God?
Praise God for his faithfulness in the situation and/or resolve and continue to trust Him as trials and tribulations come your way.
Thank Him for the good that will come out of that trial.
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The beginning of the scriptures reveals Joseph’s master saw the Lord in him. How can we be a witness and shine our light for others to see us as Christians?
The master’s wife was persistent in pursuing Joseph. He resisted yet was accused of sleeping with her because of her manipulation. Can you recall an instance where you did the right thing, yet dealt with persecution?
Thank God for helping you through the situation or if you are still dealing with injustices, ask God to continue to protect you and show you the way.
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Judah judges Tamar and wants her killed when he hears of her pregnancy. However, as he discovers the true series of events that have taken place he makes the comment, “She is more righteous than I, since I did not give her to my son Shelah.”
Do you think his words indicate a sense of shame and remorse? Tamar was quite clever in asking for Judah’s staff, signet and cord to remain in her possession. It served her well in this situation and she lived to bear twin sons.
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This passage of scripture is filled with more lies, deceit, and disobedience. Judah’s motives of sending his 2nd and 3rd born sons to Tamar after Er’s, Judah’s 1st born, death was to continue the bloodline as God desired. Then Judah’s fear of losing another son, led to his disobedience of not sending additional sons and telling Tamar to return to her father’s house as a widow.
The passage becomes even more twisted as both Judah and Tamar lie and deceive ultimately resulting in Tamar’s conception of Judah’s child.
What were the events that led to this distorted situation being revealed?
What are your thoughts regarding this passage?
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where lies or deceit entangled you or someone you love?
Take time to fervently pray for circumstances where you, a friend or loved one, seem trapped in lies and deceit.
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Rueben shows remorse when he returns to find Joseph gone. Scripture says he tore his clothes and asked where to go.
What do you think is going through Rueben’s mind?
What we think as the smallest of sin is still sin. God does not grade sin. Here we see one lie lead to more. Have you ever found yourself in a similar situation until everything unraveled?
Admitting our sin and asking for forgiveness is not only freeing, but also right in God’s eyes.
Take time to pray regarding situations you may have where sinned gripped you and left you frozen. God is anxious to hear from you.
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In these scriptures we see deception beyond belief. Sin can grip humans and cause unbelievable evil.
Even though family dynamics can be interesting, what would possess Joseph’s brothers to go to such extremes as in these scriptures?
Have you dealt with manipulation, favoritism, jealousy or even inheritance issues within your family? If so, pray that God will release you so you can move forward in peace, understanding and love.
Pray for families that are dealing with sinful situations of deception and strife.
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This is a prime example of “telling everything you know, isn’t always wise.” Joseph told his family about his dream and although we know it will come true, that his brothers would someday bow down to him, they sure didn’t want to hear it from him and or even think about it since he was just a teenager at the time of the dream.
They were jealous of his relationship with his father and that his father loved him and his mother more than he loved them and their mothers. But even without that dynamic, family relationships are always being tested and put through the fire.
Think about some of your family relationships. Have you ever done or said anything that maybe should have been left alone? I know I sure have, but my mouth opened, and words fell out that I immediately regretted, but it was too late. Family is sometimes the quickest to forgive, but they are also the quickest to demand an apology or sometimes retribution. Family is difficult. Let’s face it, relationships in general are difficult, but we can seek God’s guidance to help us stay out of trouble, or mend fences once we find ourselves in a difficult situation with someone we care about. Pray today that God would guide you to mend some fences today.
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We see here the generations of Esau, who became the Edomites. We also see that Esau and Jacob both had so much wealth in the form of livestock and servants that they couldn’t dwell close together and both be able to feed and care for their livestock well.
I have to admit when I read this the first time it was just a list of names I struggle to pronounce, but when I reread the verses I saw that wealth kept this family apart.
How often do you think wealth comes between family members? Either jealousy of what another has, or fear someone will try to take what you have, or maybe just trying to keep up with one another. It is so sad that something so unimportant and temporary can come between people. I’ve seen it myself with family members conniving to get the best or be the first to get their minerals sold so they don’t have to share the “pool” with the rest of the family members that have a right to those minerals. It isn’t money that is the problem though. It is our attitude about money. The LOVE of money is the root of all evil, not money itself.
Have you ever allowed money to become so important that it caused a problem with relationships in your life? Is there someone you need to forgive or ask forgiveness from?
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Rachel died giving birth to Benjamin. Isaac has died. Jacob, or now Israel as God has renamed him, has 12 sons and a daughter and traveling. Talk about a hard life.
When have you felt like life wasn’t treating you fairly?
Were you able to look back later and see God at work?
What helps you through those times when you feel alone with all your problems?
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We see God gave protection to Jacob by keeping his enemies from pursuing him and his sons. God is always there protecting us, but there are times we don’t even realize He has reached out and held our enemies back.
When have you felt God’s protection in a miraculous way?
Why do you think God allowed Jacob’s sons to get away with plundering the entire city and not just punishing the ones who violated Dinah and worked to cover it up?
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What a horrible thing happened to Dinah. At first glance it looks as if the brothers aren’t treating it with the gravity they should but wait…they have a plan. They learned from their father Jacob and will handle these people.
When something bad happens, we have a tendency to blame God or sometimes the one the bad thing happened to. Jesus tells us we will have trouble, but He reminds us that He has overcome the world and we would never be alone. He would always be with us.
How does that change your view of when bad things happen?
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Jacob is back home. At least what was home to him the first years of his life. It was a foreign country to his wives, children and servants.
Do you think his hesitation was more about him caring for his flock and wanting to be sure they didn’t perish, or about possibly still having reservations about his relationship with Esau?
Why do you think he stopped and built his home before going on to join his brother and learning more about the terrain and people before building?
Do you ever hesitate when God directs you?
It is sometimes difficult to know when to blindly trust, and when to learn more about a person’s motives. One thing we can count on…our Heavenly Father is always trustworthy!
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Jacob realized God had dealt graciously with him. How often do we not see clearly the mercy and grace God gives us?
Do you ever find yourself blaming God because He didn’t warn you of a trial or give you a heads up that things were going to get better so you didn’t have to worry?
This world is becoming more and more of a society that blames others for their mistakes or even their intentional shortcomings.
Why do you think this is becoming more of a problem with each generation?
Do you ever wonder how we compare to some of the really bad people the Old Testament talks about, like in Sodom. The cultures that sacrificed their children to Gods?
Sacrificing comes in many different forms. We see Jacob was silling to sacrifice some of his possessions and wealth to appease his brother, but the love Esau had for Jacob was stronger than the feelings of being cheated he had.
Is there someone you need to apologize to, or forgive? Is there someone you have held a grudge for or even feared that You can now let go of?
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How we wrestle with so many things that God doesn’t intend for us to wrestle with. Here Jacob’s concern for uniting with his brother Esau is touching. He knew he had tricked Esau and taken advantage. Why do you think he wanted to make it up to him to such a degree? Was it fear of his brother’s wrath? Fear of God’s wrath? Realizing what Laban did to him was similar to what he had done to Esau?
What has God taught you that he had to teach you the hard way like he did Jacob by using Laban’s cheating ways?
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Now we read about an opportunity for the brothers to be reunited. At last Jacob calls upon God and asks him to deliver him from the hand of Esau. Think back about the treatment Esau received at the hand of his mother and Jacob. Think about how difficult the relationship between Jacob and Laban was, how difficult the relationship between Leah and Rachel had become and how manipulation caused all of these difficulties. We, too, have difficulties in relationships. While we need to do what we can to solve these difficulties, we must also realize that the most important thing we can do is pray and trust God. Think of struggles you have had in relationships. Call out to God for forgiveness and pray about the role God would have you play in reconciliation.
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Jacob pretty much left the land of his uncle’s without saying goodbye. What do you believe drove this decision?
How could things have been so much better between the two men so that the departure could have been so much sweeter?
As we live daily, has God ever protected you, even when you were partly or wholly responsible for your predicament?
What a mighty God we serve!
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Jacob makes his exit. What was different this time?
How did God speak to Jacob?
How did Rachel and Leah react?
Why do you think they recognized the dishonesty of their father?
Has God ever allowed you to become discontent with your circumstances in order to move you somewhere else?
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Once again Laban cheats Jacob. He removes the livestock that was to be counted as Jacob’s wages.
Jacob sets about to manipulate the breeding of the remaining animals. He uses sticks and barks placed in the drinking water of the animals. Again, just as Rachel used the mandrakes to increase her fertility, this action appears to be useless.
God alone blessed Jacob with large flocks, camels, donkeys, servants plus many children. When we don’t trust God, we sometimes try to control things ourselves.
As you dig deeper into your relationship with God, trust him with all of your heart.
He is the way, the truth and the life.
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This passage indicates that Jacob is now ready to return home. He seems to be done with the manipulations of Laban. The last several passages have shown us clearly the dangers of trying to control a situation instead of crying out to God for help.
Where in your life have you struggled with manipulation?
Can you look back and recognize the problems that manipulation has created in your own life?
Be reminded that God is in control and does not need our human help. He has the best plan possible.
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As you read this passage, think about the struggles between family members that are a direct result of manipulation by others in the family. This jealousy that Rachel carried toward her sister, Leah, continued to grow due to Rachel’s inability to bear children. How crushing that must have been for Rachel. Nothing in this passage indicated that Rachel cried out to God. How often do we find ourselves in a deep struggle and we do not cry out to God for mercy? Perhaps we feel like we can handle the situations ourselves. God loves us and wants what is best for us. Rely on God and call on Him as you face tough times. He wants us to be in a relationship with Him.
What difficulties can God help you with today?
Call out and wait patiently. His plan is best.
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Once again, we see deception as the method used by man to get the results HE desires. God is ignored and Laban believes he knows what is best.
Sometimes, we, too, refuse to wait and manipulate a situation. As you reflect on your life, perhaps you remember a time or two where you manipulated a situation.
Ask God for forgiveness. Call upon the Lord and wait patiently. God’s plan is always best.
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This is such a sweet encounter. Jacob was in a foreign land, looking for relatives that he did not know. Again, God directed his path and Jacob was pleased to meet his uncle and cousin.
He would soon learn that the manipulations of his mother would pale in comparison to those of his uncle. Jacob was not without blame. He had been deceptive with his brother, greedy in receiving his brother’s blessing and because of these actions, there was discord in his family.
Jacob had yet to learn that relying on God, instead of manipulating situations, would allow him a much more peaceful existence.
What kind of seeds are we sowing as we walk in this world?
How about if we all stopped trying to manipulate situations and simply waited on God?
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Wow! God appears to Jacob in a dream. This encounter allows Jacob to gain a personal knowledge of God and gives us the famous “Jacobs ladder”.
Notice the condition Jacob places on his relationship with God. “If God…”, which appears in verse 20, says so much about the spiritual maturity of Jacob. IF God met these conditions, Jacob would follow God.
Do you find ourselves in a similar situation? Is it all about what God can do for you rather than you can do for God or what God wants from you?
Spend some time pondering your relationship with God and ask Him to help you search your heart and whether you are seeking the kind of relationship with God that allows you to increase your spiritual maturity and walk closer with Him daily.
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Once again, we see that Rebekah manipulated the situation by insisting that Jacob leave the country and go find a bride in Haran. She did not come clean with her husband about the difficulties of their sons’ relationship and Jacob’s lies.
Jacob did not realize that God was with him, but God continued to protect Jacob regardless of his faults.
This is such good news as God is with us daily as well.
Think about your daily walk with the Lord. Have there been times that you struggled, fell short or felt ashamed by your own behavior?
How has God brought you comfort?
How has our God gotten your attention? Through His word, through a song, or maybe a preacher’s sermon?
Rest assured God loves you and is waiting for you to run into His open arms.
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This scripture really shows us the sin-filled hearts of humans. Rebekah used her own flesh and blood to get her way.
Think about families and the anger, resentment, hurt and perhaps withdrawal that can occur in our families today.
If you feel you have been wronged by a family member, is God calling you to forgive and reach out to this person so that the family unit can be made whole once again?
Perhaps this can become a prayer concern for you.
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Isaac’s blessing had been given away to an imposture. As you read, think about the heartbreak that occurred.
Describe the happenings that occurred in these scriptures.
What were Isaac’s reactions when he learned he had been tricked by his own son?
What did Esau ask of his father? What was Isaac’s response and how did he describe Esau’s future?
Does this leave you pondering how Rebekah felt after this occurrence. One son’s victory defeated her firstborn son. It’s difficult to understand yet selfishness and greed causes us to do things we often regret.
Dear Lord, please help us to be ever diligent as we live out our temporary lives here on earth. Help us to call upon you and rebuke the devil as he seeks to destroy our families and us. We look at the world around us and realize that we are in the midst of a world that sees the decline of the present family and its values. Now more than ever, help us to be steadfast, faithful, bold and stand strong for You as we share Your Word and witness to a broken world around us. Bless us, O God!
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The deception continues in these verses. As you read and study today’s verses, pray that wrongs or deceptions in your life may be resolved through truth.
When presented the dish requested, what were Isaac’s concerns?
How were Isaac’s reservations fulfilled regarding whether this was Esau that granted his wish?
Isaac did end up giving his blessing to the imposture Jacob. What did the blessing involve?
God’s love and blessings are bountiful. He shows no favoritism but loves us all. He died for you and me that we may have eternal life once we accept Him as our Lord and Savior. He did this for all but would have done it for only you or me. Thank You, Lord, that we are enough and worthy in your amazing eyes.
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This passage of scripture reminds us of the servant praying specifically and urgently. He recognized his prayer was answered before he even finished praying. He then takes time to give thanks to the Lord God. How often do we pray with great anticipation, laying our specific requests at the feet of our Heavenly Father? When the prayer is answered, some might think it’s a coincidence, while in fact it is a direct and immediate answer to our prayer. Thank You Lord for answering prayer.
What did Rebekah’s brother, Laban, immediately notice upon seeing Abraham’s servant and Rebekah?
What was indicated by his observation?
What was the servant’s prayer?
Why was the servant treated with such hospitality?
Abraham had given specific instructions that Isaac’s wife not be a Canaanite, but the from Abraham’s father’s land and his clan. Why was this so important?
How did Abraham reassure the servant’s uncertainties regarding the success of his task?
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Abraham’s servant shows faithfulness and gratitude as we find him once again giving thanks to God in these scriptures.
Why did Rebekah’s family trust the servant?
Why do you think Rebekah’s family asked that she be allowed to stay 10 days before leaving with Abraham’s servant?
During a period of time when women’s opinions were not taken into consideration, what do you find interesting about them asking Rebekah her thoughts of staying or leaving immediately?
Why do you think she went willingly with the servant?
What is revealed about Rebekah’s character in these scriptures?
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These scriptures certainly reassure us of a love story unfolding. Reread this short passage again before answering these questions.
Verse 63 mentions that Isaac went into the fields to meditate in the early evening. What do you think his meditations included?
Why do you think Rebekah covered herself when she learned it was her husband to be coming to meet them?
The scripture mentions that Isaac was comforted by Rebekah and loved her. What explanation do you have for this love and bond when Rebekah and Isaac had just met?
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Even thousands of years ago sibling rivalry, birthrights, favoritism, and deception was present. We see it in these scriptures once again.
What did Isaac request of Esau in these scriptures and why?
Is there anything in these scriptures that might change your first impressions of Rebekah’s character?
Favoritism can exist in families between siblings and parents. We see an example in these scriptures. What was Rebekah’s fear in these scriptures and why?
Why was Isaac’s blessing so important to Esau and Jacob?
These parents were looking at their “favorite” to receive the birthright which rightfully belonged to Esau, although he sold it to Jacob for a bowl of stew.
What does God look at when He gives us our inheritance?
What is our inheritance?
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Water is such a necessary life giving resource. As you read these scriptures, think about Isaac’s patience and obedience as he attempted to find water.
This passage is many years before Jesus was born, yet we see Him reflected in these verses as He is the living water. Be looking for other ways Jesus is reflected in the Old Testament thousands of years before He makes His appearance.
Why did Abimelich send Isaac away and where did he settle?
Wells existed in the Valley of Gerar yet Isaac was found digging more wells? Why?
Once water was found, what was the contention over the wells?
Reconciliation is celebrated in this passage. Describe what occurred after disputes over several wells.
Even if our earthly resource of water was depleted, how can we have eternal living water?
Talk to God today to confirm that you will never thirst but have eternal living water.
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These scriptures share the names of Abraham’s children with his second wife, Keturah, the actions given toward his children with concubines, his final days, death and burial.
What do you find significant about Abraham’s actions towards his children with concubines?
Why did Abraham give everything to Isaac?
Why is there mention of Ishmael’s children and Isaac’s in later verses and not those from Abraham’s concubines?
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These scriptures share the beginning of yet another famine. They are filled with more deception and even more amazing blessings.
What did God tell Isaac to do in the midst of the famine and how did Isaac obey?
Isaac was very much like his father in these scriptures. How did Isaac try to outsmart King Abimelech and why?
What cued King Abimelech to the truth of the deception and what was his response?
Once again God proves His faithfulness. How did His faithfulness prevail in these scriptures?
How does His overwhelming faithfulness exist in your life?
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Isaac and Rebekah are given sons, Esau and Jacob. But, the struggle began as early as in the womb and continued into the sons’ adulthood.
How does the Bible describe Esau and Jacob and what’s significant about their relationship with their parents?
Selling a birthright seems outrageous especially in trade for stew. What sense can you make out of Esau’s decision? Why do you think he expected to still get his father’s blessing as the oldest son when he had given away that birthright?
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God answered the servant’s prayer before he could even finish his prayer. Why do you think God answered this prayer so quickly?
This servant refers to God as being the God of his master Abraham. He is very specific because he was from an area of many “gods”. How can someone see the God of all the earth perform these many miracles and answered all these prayers and still see God as the God of his master Abraham, and not see that he is the One true God?
How can you share the God of all heaven and earth with those who don’t believe, today?
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What is the significance to the servant putting his hand under Abraham’s thigh when promising to carry out the requested task?
Why did Abraham require the servant to swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and God of the earth? What was the significance of how he referred to God?
Why do you think it was so important to Abraham where Isaac’s wife came from?
Why was Abraham insistent regarding Isaac not going back to the land from which he came?
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Why do you think the Bible mentions where was Sarah buried?
What did the Hittites suggest regarding Sarah’s burial land?
Why do you think they were willing to give this burial land to Abraham without any cost?
Why do you think it was important to Abraham to pay for this land?
Abraham’s past actions toward these people made an impact on them. What do your actions say about you and the God you serve?
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God called out to Abraham and tells him that because of his great faith, he will be richly blessed. Why do you think God confirmed His promises to Abraham at this time?
If God already knew how Abraham would respond, why do you think God asked him to go through this test?
How has God tested your faith lately?
What did you learn through that experience?
Ask God to walk with you daily so that your faith may grow.
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From this passage, what can we assume about the attitude Isaac had toward Abraham andGod?
We typically think of Isaac as a young boy when this occurred, but he was actuallya young man, at least a teenager, and able to fight off what might have feltlike an attack. Why do you think he allowed himself to be bound and put on the altar?
We know that faith without works is dead. How did Abraham display his faith to bothIsaac and God?
Has God ever met you in a time of testing or great need? How could you commemorate thattime in your life?
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So, God calls Abraham out and tells him to offerup the son, Isaac, as an offering to Him. What words did God use when speakingto Abraham that indicate that God knew just how precious Isaac was to Abraham?
In Genesis 17 God promises Abraham that he willbe the father of many nations. Now we see God asking Abraham to sacrifice hisson. What does Abraham’s response to God say about his relationship with God?
In verse 4, do you think there is significance init mentioning “it is on the third day”?
When has God called you to do something youthought seemed impossible?
How did you respond to God?
Oh, to have the faith of Abraham!
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Abraham acted withintegrity as he dealt with Abimelech. The seven ewes were used as proof thatthe well had been dug by Abraham and the well belonged to Abraham. Had Abrahamalways acted with integrity in his relationship with Abimelech? Integrity isdoing the right thing even if no one is watching. Are all our relationshipshandled with integrity? If not, what keeps us from always acting with integrity?
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This is the second timeHagar has departed from Abraham and Sarah.
What brought about thisdeparture? Have you ever made aregretful decision due to jealousy for yourself or someone you cared about?
How did Hagar attempt toprotect her child?
Once again, God deals withHagar in such a kind manner. His provisions are always more than adequate, aswe see Ishmael become a capable young man. What role did Ishmael play inAbraham’s covenant with God?
Thank God for how He hasprovided for you, not only physical provisions, but emotional and spiritual aswell.
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What a sweet scripture passage this is. God kepthis promise and Abraham and Sarah were blessed with a son, Isaac. I love thephrase “and the Lord did to Sarah as he had promised.” We serve a mighty,loving God. Think today of a promise God has kept in your life and offer Himpraise now.
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Once again, Abraham takes control of a situation and lies about his wife, Sarah.
Why did he feel the need to lie?
What were his concerns?
Fear can cause us to be less than honest.
Can you think of a situation where fear has led you to be less than honest?
Did that end well for you? Do you have regrets?
Thankfully, God forgives.
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This passage is difficultto read as we look at this action as an incestuous relationship.
The preservation of thebloodline of Lot was of paramount importance to his daughters. While they wereindeed successful, their offspring would later become enemies of theIsraelites.
Is this another example ofpeople taking control of a situation rather than letting God be in control?
How often do we try tocontrol an outcome rather than allow God to guide us and bless our work?
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May 20 – Genesis 19:15-29
What a mighty, loving God we serve. He was so gracious to Lot andhis family. How blessed was Lot to have an Uncle Abraham who loved him andasked God to protect his nephew and family. Is there someone in your life whohas cried out to God on your behalf and begged for God to protect you? Is theresomeone in your life that has had an impact on your witness?
Take time today to thank God for such a relationship. You mighteven want to send a card to that person and let them know what a differencethey have made in your life.
Is there someone you would cry out for God to protect in a similarsituation? Why not go to them today andtell them about Jesus?
Who is watching you today to see how you react to trials? Who is watching to see if God is real toyou? God will give you the strength tofollow Him, as He wants nothing more than true and obedient followers.
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May 19 – Genesis 19:1-14
This passage shows usclearly how wicked and evil humans had become.
We see two very distinctsides of Lot’s personality. He offered protection for his visitors by bringingthem into his house and yet he was willing to offer up his daughters to themob.
What does this tell usabout Lot?
Even given his struggles,God was willing to save Lot and his family?
What does this tell usabout the God we serve?
How often have we neededto seek God’s forgiveness for our transgressions? God always forgives and lovesus unconditionally as He did Lot. Thank you, Lord.
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May 18, 2023.
May 18 – Genesis 18:16-33
What was Abraham’s concernabout the righteous people dwelling in Sodom and Gomorrah? As he cried out toGod for the sake of ten righteous people, how did God respond? What hope doesthat give us as believers today? What should we do as we watch our world slipfurther and further into moral decline? Does this scripture passage fill youwith hope? Why or why not?
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How do we celebrate Easter? Why? What is the REAL reason to celebrate? Without Easter Sunday, we wouldn't be called Christians. The Resurrection of Jesus is what gives us the opportunity for eternal life. We don't deserve it, and many don't accept it, but Jesus is the only way to God and eternal life.
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Who or what do you rely on to know know truth? A directional compass always points to true north. We can depend on that. We can also always depend on God’s Word for truth. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whengodwhispers/message
This is the first video podcast and I share about the difference in our relationship with God vs fellowship with God and who is responsible for each. We sometimes get them a bit mixed up and our relationship with Jesus can be so much better when we stay in our lane and take our responsibility seriously and let God be God.
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This is Thanksgiving week and this week always brings to mind how grateful I am for all the many blessings God has given me. The biggest blessing of all is the relationship I am able to have with my Heavenly Father. When I realize that watching my dad and his love for Jesus has influenced me in my relationship with Jesus makes me realize I have the two best Fathers I could possibly have. I pray you had a wonderful earthly father, but I know you have the best Father in God.
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How we see things impacts our ideas, thoughts and our attitude, which in turn impacts those around us. Learn to choose joy. Joy in the Lord, joy in the many gifts He gives us. Choose joy over what the world has to offer, mere happiness that is fleeting and superficial.
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We all wear masks. We have to act in a way we don't feel like acting at times. But don't forget that God can see right through our mask to our heart. He knows what we are doing, what we are thinking and what are motives are. The elder son in the Prodigal Son Parable wore a mask. It is easy to think he is the "good guy" in the story until you look deeper and realize his motives for his behavior. Don't be like the elder son and do the right things for the wrong reasons.
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The flight attendants always tell us to secure our mask before we assist our children, loved ones or anyone needing assistance near us. If we don't do this, we might cause our loved ones to not get the assistance they need because we are in the way or someone is caring for us rather than our loved ones. This works into our spiritual lives as well. We need to spend time with Jesus and make sure our spiritual mask is secure before we start trying to help someone else. In Matthew 7 Jesus shares about the log in our eye that keeps us from seeing clearly to help our brother remove the speck that is in his eye. When we focus on others without involving God, many times we miss the greatest blessings of all. We need to keep our eyes on Jesus and He will keep us seeing clearly so we can help others.
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Darryl Baskin is a successful REALTOR in Tulsa, Ok, a preachers Kid, has a radio program and most important, loves Jesus Christ and wants to share Jesus with everyone He meets. When you know Jesus, you can and should take Him with you everywhere you go. Darryl and I share about our experiences sharing Jesus and what we have seen and learned along the way. You never know how you might impact someone's life with just a smile or a simple conversation.
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Jeff has been a guest on my podcast a few times and he is a "one of a kind" friend. His faith in Jesus is never-ending and his friendship is forever. As a quadriplegic, he was limited in his movement, breathing, even talking, but in his faith he was limitless. For almost 40 years he depended on others for everything, which taught me how to depend on the God who created me. Jeff went home to be with Jesus on May 1, 2022, and heaven will never be the same.
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We throw away people and things we think have no value, but our value is in the Lord
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We all have gifts and talents but way too many times we take credit for what gifts God has given us. Gideon in the book of judges fell for it so I’m not alone.
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I reading an obituary recently it struck me that we could change the names and occupation of each obituary but other than that, they’re basically all alike. Is that what I want my life story to be? Names, dates, cause of death? No! I want my life to reflect Jesus and how much I love Him, but more than that, how much He loves me and each person listening to this podcast. He died for you, let your obituary glorify Him.
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What happened during Holy Week? What does the last week of Jesus’ life mean for me?
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Jennifer had dreamed of living in California since she was a very young girl. When the opportunity to live in San Diego rooming with a dear friend became reality, she didn’t hesitate. Within a couple of weeks she had the date set and plane tickets purchased and she heard God whisper the last thing she wanted or expected to hear. Listen to hear what God shared with her.
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Are you like most of us that have favorite books of the Bible that you read over and over again, but there are also books of the Bible that you have never looked at, or at least not since you were a child and heard the stories in Sunday School? There is so much to learn from every single book of the Bible. I urge you to step out and decide to be impartial and read a neglected book today! You will be amazed at what God will teach you.
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What is in a name? Well, when it is the name of the Most Holy God, more than we every realized. Join me on this podcast to hear how God has made a way for us all to speak His name and call out to Him with every breath we breathe.
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Hillcrest Baptist church pastor, Craig Yates discusses how one verse can change a person’s heart and that person can then take that fire and impact the entire world.
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Isaiah 9:6-7 tell us about the Prince of Peace that will come to save us, but there are some parts of the prophecy that have yet to unfold. Jesus will come again and will reign as our Prince of Peace and our King.
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The meaning of Advent III and the scripture that helps us reflect on the joy of the coming Savior.
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Hear a devotional written by Lisa Appelo about the prophecy that Jesus would come from the shoot of Jesse.
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What traditions do you have at Christmas? Did they come from your childhood, or ones you started as an adult? The date we celebrate Christmas actually came from a pagan tradition and the attempt to turn the eyes of people toward the Savior.
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Christ came to this earth for you, for me. He came, lived, preached and died so that we could have an eternity with Him.
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The history and thoughts about the song "I'll Be Home For Christmas." Where is YOUR home? My home is eternity with Jesus, my Savior. Call on Him today so you too can have an eternal home in which to look forward.
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Have you dreamed of being something amazing? God can and wants to use you in mighty ways if you will let Him. Listen to the story of these three trees that had great dreams, and felt their dreams had been crushed, when God used them for the most amazing work of all time.
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What was that night like so long ago in Bethlehem? What faced the Son of God as He entered this world?
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Learn more about how and why we celebrate Advent and what the different candles mean and the focus of week 2 of Advent.
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Depression is more widespread than ever. It is okay to allow yourself to choose to be joyous and happy. Focus on God rather than the things of this earth. Choose Joy!
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When you think about what the shepherds say, you can see why they had to tell everybody. Think about everything God has done for you. Don't you want to tell everybody about the many blessings God has given you as well as the gift of Jesus Christ?
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The Savior has come to save you from a dark past.
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The Savior has come to save you from an empty present.
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The Savior has come to save you from a hopeless future.
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Does Christmas still thrill you? Do you still see Christmas with excitement, joy and laughter as well as amazement at what God has done for us?
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Christmas is about more than the baby in the manger. It is about the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross for us.
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What do you celebrate during Christmas? Do you know people who are hurting during this time of year? Be an encourager to those who are hurting or alone this Christmas, and remember the reason for the season.
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The First Sunday of Advent is about Hope and prophecy. Our Hope is in Jesus, a different kind of Hope than the world knows.
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Description of the wreath and symbolism for believers in Jesus.
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How did Advent start and how has it changed? Why do we celebrate Advent?
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You are allowed to choose for yourself if you will follow God or follow your own plan. Trust me, I’m choosing God!!
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We can only see a little swatch of life, but God has an aerial view and can see the whole picture. Why don’t we depend on Him to guide us?
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Do you allow God to be your God every day or do other things get in the way? Do you try to take care of the little things yourself, or do you allow God into every area of your life?
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Like a child, sometimes we need to just relax I to teach waiting and living arms if our Father.
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How effective and efficient are you in your fellowship and walk with Jesus? E-Squared is a concept that is super easy to understand that will help you see how baby steps can help you grow quickly in any area of your life.
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Do you have FOMO? The fear of missing out? What are some steps you can take to start the healing process.
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Pandemic, quarantine, masks…all brought on changes. How can we take what we learned to help make our families’ lives better?
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How many drops of blood did Jesus shed for you? How many times did the whip rip His skin apart for you? Jesus didn’t just die for you. He suffered unthinkable pain and torture for you. Why would a man do that?
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What is your life built on? Is it shifting sand, like your job, hobby, spouse, or friends? Or is your life built on “THE Solid Rock” of Jesus Christ, the ONE AND ONLY that will always be there and knows what you need?
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How do you prepare for a trip? Do you prepare more for a trip than your walk with God? See how the steps for trip planning relate to your spiritual life.
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There is so much hate and evil in the world today. What can we do to help change the world? Focus on Jesus and spreading His love to all we encounter.
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God revealed that I had been praying all wrong recently. I wanted to share it with you and I pray you see Him as never before.
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Psalm 23. The Lord is my Shepherd. What is the role of a shepherd and why do I need one? Look at Psalm 23 in a whole new way.
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Do you want to meet Jesus and accept the salvation He offers? Do you want to learn more about how He can save you from what you truly deserve? Listen to this short podcast to hear what Jesus has done for you!
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We get to hear more of Jeff Leslie’s story and hear more how God has carried him and blessed him.
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Doug is now cancer free. This is my tribute to all God has done for us in the past year. God is so very good! God is soooo good. Even on the bad days. He encourages us, He leads us, He supports us and sometimes He carries us.
I know there had to have been days when Paul wondered what he had done wrong to spend so much time in prison, but God’s plan was for Paul’s letters to live forever.
I imagine John the Baptist had days where he felt his life was being cut short. But his very own words tell us that he knew he had to become less so Jesus could become more.
So when you’re asking yourself today, why did I go through______? Or why am I facing ______? Realize God has a plan for each of us and some paths are much more difficult than others, but when you are His child, and you call Him Abba, Father, and you have invited Jesus to be your Lord every day in everything, HE WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU!
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We all know periodically we need to clean the accumulated dirt and cobwebs from our closets, attic and garage, but what about the “junk” that accumulates in our mind and spirit?
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Rick spent his career defending our right to share the gospel of Jesus, as well as many other rights we enjoy in this country. In this episode he shares how God got his attention and helped him see his need for Jesus.
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Have you ever been bullied? Do you know someone who has? Or maybe you know the bully? This podcast is for you. The bullied or the bully, Jesus loves you!
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I had the chance to ask JJ a few questions after the time that we spent recording his podcast testimony. I hope you enjoy hearing a little more about JJ and having some questions answered. One question he had never been asked before.
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JJ shares how God has changed hearts and lives as “Save Our Streets Ministries” has grown. God continues to use JJ to share His good news. The website for SOS Ministries is: saveourstreetsministries.org
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JJ shares how God started using him to share with gang members and God calling to full time ministry. He tells how “Save Our Streets Ministries” was born.
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JJ tells how he met Jesus and how God began to work in his life to move him toward ministry.
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JJ shares how God gets his attention.
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JJ Ramirez shares his story of growing up in Bryan, Texas. As a boy he became involved in drugs but God has a plan.
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Do you have a relationship in your life that you’re missing? It could be someone you knew and loved or someone you never knew, I had someone step in and take the place of my Grandma that I never had the chance to meet. What love she had to take in that role.
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What is at your core? What drives your ambition as well your life in general? What SHOULD it be?
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If you were on trial, accused of being a believer of Jesus and loving Him completely and publicly, would you be found guilty?
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Hear the rest of Jeff's story and hear his faith and love for his lord. Be sure to go to his music website: www.soundclick.com/jeffleslie, to listen to his music and hear how God has gifted him with a love and true gift of writing songs that glorify God. You can reach Jeff at mailto:silvermorningstudio@gmail.com.
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On July 2, 1982 Jeff Leslie, a 25 year old high school band director dove into an incorrectly marked lake and broke his neck leaving him a quadraplegic. This story of faith, hope and love for our Lord leads to Jeff finding not only how much Jesus loves him, but finding a love he never thought he would have in this life after his accident. A story of inspiration, courage and hope. You can reach him at mailto:silvermorningstudio@gmail.com.
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How do dogs and puppies treat their master? We have much to learn from them.
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Do you treat God more like your cane or your glasses?
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Hear the rest of Michelle’s story and how God carried her and brought her to the other side of cancer.
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Michelle Lee shares her story of how God carried her through and renewed her, changed her and grew her as she battled breast cancer.
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The Word of God tells us how to pray so that our prayers are always answered.
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We rely on electronics to guide us, but how often do we seek God’s guidance?
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We impact those around us. Choose the joy of the Lord fir yourself and for those you love.
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Jesus is the Light. Although we live in a very dark and broken world, Jesus has conquered and overcome the darkness.
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We finish our visit with Jen and I share how you can KNOW you are saved. Please listen and share this story of faith.
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This is a visit with a friend of mine who attends my Sunday School class via Zoom from her home n Arizona. I met her recently snd have so enjoyed getting to know her and seeing her love for Jesus grow.
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Share Jesus as often as you can and know that you aren’t responsible for the outcome, inky fir being obedient to share His Good News.
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No matter what pain you are feeling today, Jesus has felt that same pain and He can understand you.
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My sweet friends Bryan and Anne telling Doug’s story and asking for prayer for him.
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What is “Free Will” and what does the Bible say about free will and how we should make decisions that glorify God?
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What are your goals in life? Philippians 3:10-11 share some wonderful goals that we can and should use to shape our entire lives.
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Cancer is deadly. Physical or spiritual, it must be addressed. Don’t let spiritual cancer destroy your relationships.
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What does the resurrection mean for you? What changed because Jesus lived, died and rose again?
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It was the Sabbath. Jesus was dead. The disciples were alone, confused and scared. What should they do now that their teacher was gone?
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Why did Jesus die? What do we gain through His death?
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There are so many lessons we can learn in Matthew 26 beginning in verse 36 through the rest of the chapter. Travel back to that Thursday with me. Learn from the Lord Himself
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I want to share the love of Jesus Christ with the world. I pray you are blessed and encouraged by our podcasts.
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Jesus was betrayed by one of His own. Judas wasn’t the only one who betrayed Him though. Listen to find out who else betrayed Him.
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God’s temple is a special place to be used for His glory. What is God’s temple?
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Imagine you had only a few days left to live. What would you do in those last few precious moments?
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What must it have been like for Jesus as He entered Jerusalem for what He knew would be the last time? What is your live fir Him based on?
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How are we related to God? What is the difference in our “Relationship” to God vs our “Fellowship” with God?
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How God has gone before us as we go through Doug’s job loss and cancer. God is good!!!!
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God is so amazing! He loves us more than we can imagine. This episode is about how and why I feel God calling me to share and about the “Whisper” that changed my life.
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