WEDNESDAY December 19, 2018

For Unto Us a Child is Born

Isaiah 9:6-7

The prophet Isaiah gave dual prophesies about Christ’s first coming, and then, His second coming. First he prophesied of Christ’s birth 750 years before He came, and, then second, he takes us further into the future, two thousand years later, to His second coming. Isaiah foretold of Jesus’ return back to earth to establish the millennial kingdom. Christ will reign and govern on earth for 1000 years with a rod of iron (Revelation 19:13-16).

Understand, this Child––Jesus Christ was born for us––for all mankind. Notice the names of Christ in these verses because they establish both His humanity, and His divinity. He came as a Child, yet He was the Son of God––the Savior of the world. John 3:16 tells us: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. Philippians 2:5-7, also speaks of both His divinity and humanity:

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.

Now slowly read Isaiah 9:6-7 again. What does each name of Christ mean to you personally?

“Infinite and yet an Infant. Eternal, and yet born of a woman. Almighty, and yet nursing at a woman’s breast. Supporting a universe, and yet carried in a mother’s arms…”
~C.H. Spurgeon~

TUESDAY December 18, 2018

The Light Has Shined

Isaiah 9:1-2

Isaiah 9:1-2, described a future time when the nation of Israel would come out of gloom and darkness into a beautiful light. These incredible verses point to Jesus Christ, the Messiah, the King of kings and Lord of lords (1 Timothy 6:15). The nation of Israel would come out of darkness into the greatest light of the knowledge of salvation.

Even though God judged Zebulun and Naphtali; yet, these are the regions where Jesus Christ went to preach the Gospel of light––to the darkest places. Jesus Christ would be born and later would begin ministry in Galilee. The people around the Sea of Galilee would see a great light. Who was that great light? Jesus Christ! The people there would come out of darkness because He would take to them the Gospel of salvation.

God in His mercy and grace has called us out of the darkness:

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light (I Peter 2:9).

If you are a person in distress who does not know Christ, do not remain in gloom, walking in the darkness of your sin, and living in the constant fear of death’s shadow. Come to the Light!

For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
~2 Corinthians 4:6~

MONDAY December 17, 2018

Prophecy of the Virgin Birth

Isaiah 7:14

This is incredible! Isaiah the prophet spoke a prophecy 750 years before Jesus Christ was born. God gave us a sure sign “…the virgin would conceive and bear a Son.” The word virgin in Hebrew is “almah” meaning, “young woman.” Eight out of nine times "almah" is translated "virgin," because young, unmarried, women in the Hebrew culture were strictly to be virgins before marriage.

When the Old Testament was translated into Greek (the Septuagint), the translators used the word “Parthenos,” a word descriptive of a young woman who has never known a man sexually. Joseph never had relations with Mary until after Jesus was born (Matthew 1:25). . Mary’s conception of Christ was a miracle––amazing.

The word virgin in some of the newer translations of the Bible has been changed. Instead of the word virgin they have used the phrase “young maiden,” which discredits the virgin birth and incarnation of Jesus Christ.

Isaiah foretold that Jesus Christ would be born of a virgin, and He would be called Immanuel. What is the meaning of the name Immanuel? The word Immanuel means, “God with us” or “With us is God.” Immanuel is the prophetic name of the Messiah.

The miracle and marvel of Immanuel––God with us––defies description… Jesus was the heart of God wrapped in human flesh. He was God in the garb of humanity. He was God walking the earth in sandals. (Henry Gariepy)

Christ, who walked among us, was a demonstration of perfect humanity. God's majesty was mercifully sheathed in the
soft envelope of human nature.
~A.W.Tozer~

SUNDAY December 16, 2018

Dayspring from on High

Luke 1:78-79

As Zacharias concluded his prophecy, he gave tremendous hope to the Jewish people. When the Dayspring, Jesus Christ appeared, He would bring light. The Jews sat in darkness; they were despondent, and felt hopeless because of the Roman occupation and oppression. They lacked peace with God in the face of persecution.

One of the beautiful titles of our Lord is “Dayspring,” which literally means, “sunrise.” Zacharias in his hymn of praise and prophecy echoes and announces the fulfillment of Malachi’s prophecy (Malachi 4:2), by the birth of Christ––“the Dayspring from on high has visited us.” It was very dark when Jesus, our Dayspring came from on high. But he came as a glorious sunrise “to give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into peace. (Henry Gariepy)

Still in the world today, people sit in darkness––a spiritual darkness and ignorance concerning Christ. They need the Dayspring from on high! Jesus Christ––visited us like the dawn that ends the darkness. We all face the shadow of death. We live in the knowledge that each new day could be our last. Death is something we cannot control; it is an unwelcome visitor. But who can help us? Christ, as the Child of Mary, took upon Himself human flesh, and conquered death’s power when He died on the cross and rose again from the dead.

Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He [Christ] Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were
all their lifetime subject to bondage
~Hebrews 2:14-15~

SATURDAY December 15, 2018

Prophet of the Highest

Luke 1:76-77

In answer to prayer, God had given Zacharias a son in his old age. Zacharias the priest was filled with the Holy Spirit, and continued to give a prophecy that also told of his son’s future ministry. The hand of the Lord was with John, Zacharias’ son, as he grew (Luke 1:66). He became strong in spirit, and later lived in the area of the desert until his ministry began.

Zacharias’ son was chosen to be the messenger of God Most High. As the prophet of the Highest; he would herald the Messiah and make ready a people prepared for the Lord. He would call out to the people to repent so they could be forgiven of their sins (Matthew 3:1-3). He would become known as John the Baptist because he would baptize the people in the Jordan River (John 1:28).

As John the Baptist preached repentance, many people would be deeply convicted and they would turn to Christ. Their hearts would be made ready for their coming Messiah. The Jews would send for the priests and Levites from Jerusalem to question John. They would inquire, “Who are you?” We can read his testimony in the Scriptures: ...He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ” (John 1:20).

John the Baptist would proclaim to those who came from Jerusalem: “I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the LORD,” ’ as the prophet Isaiah said.” John the Baptist would quote Scripture from Isaiah 40:3, and always point people to Christ––the Son of God. Who do you point people to?

“…I [John the Baptist] have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.”
~John 1:34~

FRIDAY December 14, 2018

God Has Visited His People

Luke 1:67-71

Zacharias, filled with the Holy Spirit, not only praised the Lord, but he also prophesied. He spoke of God’s visitation among His people—Israel. Their Messiah, the Horn of Salvation, would come through the household of David (Psalm 132:17-18). Zacharias praised God for his nation’s redemption, salvation and deliverance from their enemies. He declared what had been spoken through God’s prophets since the beginning of the world.

Imagine, the people of Israel were very familiar with these ancient promises. God, in His mercy, would perform the oath He swore to their father Abraham. It was the great hope of the people of Israel––to be delivered from the hand of their enemies, so they could serve the Lord without fear, in holiness, all the days of their lives (Luke 1:72-75).

Now the time had come to see the prophecy’s fulfillment. John the Baptist would be used of the Lord to prepare the way for the Messiah. He was to be a witness to His true Light:

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world (John 1:6-9).

Do you stand in awe of Christmas lights or the true Light which gives light to the world?

“I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”
~John 8:12~

THURSDAY December 13, 2018

No Ordinary Child?

Luke 1:65-66

Imagine all the people who lived around Zacharias and Elizabeth were in awe of what had happened. They began to discuss the miraculous events surrounding the birth of Zacharias’ son John. At first Zacharias was mute, and the people perceived he had seen a vision in the temple. Then Elizabeth, in her old age, conceived and gave birth to a son! Afterwards, the child was given the unexpected name of John by his father, who suddenly began to speak!

As the people discussed these unusual events, news began to spread throughout all the hill country of Judea. What did these extraordinary happenings mean? Clearly the people were aware that God was doing something, even though they could not understand the full picture of His plan. So, for the time being, they kept what was spoken in their hearts. They were left with a probing question in their minds, “What kind of child will this be?”

Among all those people in the hill region of Judea who had heard what had transpired, were there any who could truly perceive what had happened, according to the Scriptures, concerning John and his ministry in relation to Christ?

It is similar to what happened at Christmas. How many people will not understand the spiritual significance of Christmas? Instead, they will enjoy a commercialized holiday. Could it be that others will ask you about the Babe in the manger, saying “What Child is this?” Will you be able to answer them, “Christ our Savior,” and tell them the Christmas story?

“For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior,
who is Christ the Lord.”
~Luke 2:11~

WEDNESDAY December 12, 2018

Birth of John the Baptist

Luke 1:57-58

Mary had stayed with her cousin for three months; then came the time for Elizabeth to deliver her baby. The Lord in His mercy had taken away her reproach among the people (Luke 1:25) and had given her a child. While pregnant, Elizabeth sought seclusion, but now her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had blessed her. God had given her a son, and everyone rejoiced (Luke 1:56-58).

Elizabeth gave birth to her son in her old age, and it was a miracle, but that was not the only wonderful thing to happen. On the eighth day, when they circumcised the child, those present expected the baby to be named after his father Zacharias, but Elizabeth had said no, his name would be John. Confused by an unfamiliar name not found in their family lineage, they looked to Zacharias for further confirmation (Luke 1:59-62).

Zacharias motioned for a tablet, and in their amazement, he wrote the name––John (Luke 1:63). Immediately, his tongue was loosed and he could speak, just as the angel had said (Luke 1:20, 64). His first words uttered were praise to his God (Luke 1:59-64).

When Zacharias first heard the angel Gabriel’s message, he had spoken words of unbelief. He could not imagine the possibility of a child being born to him in his old age. But now, when what was spoken by the angel had taken place, he obediently called his son John, and had nothing but praise on his lips for his God.

Do we question God’s Word in unbelief? Or do we believe His Word and have nothing but praise on our lips?

I will extol the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips. ~Psalm 34:1(NIV)~

TUESDAY December 11, 2018

God My Savior

Luke 1:46-49

Mary responded in praise to all that had been spoken to her by the angel Gabriel and Elizabeth her cousin. She spontaneously began to magnify the Lord. Imagine, Mary, in humility, recognized that she was just a lowly maidservant to be used in God’s hands. Mary had indeed been made to rejoice; God, who is mighty beyond measure, had done great things for her. Mary was so blessed and she praised God’s magnificent holy name. Her life’s story, as the mother of Jesus, would be remembered for all generations.

It is important to understand that this holy Child she carried would not only be Savior of the world, but He would be Mary’s own personal Savior. Mary, although blessed among women, was not sinless like her Savior. She also needed salvation. Mary saw herself in the correct light; she understood the profound truth of her insignificance and sinfulness, compared to the greatness and holiness of God. But do we?

You may consider yourself a good person, someone who helps others and seeks to live by a high, moral standard, but what light does the Bible shed on those thoughts: …for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). “There is none righteous, no, not one; there is none who understands; there is none who seeks after God” (Romans 3:10-11).

It is God who is mindful of us. He loved us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8), and gave His life for us. Jesus has done great things for us!

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
~Romans 5:8~

MONDAY December 10, 2018

Mary, Blessed Believer

Luke 1:42-45

Mary hurried to visit her cousin Elizabeth. As she entered the house and gave greetings, Elizabeth’s baby leaped for joy in her womb. She then was filled with the Spirit and spoke to Mary, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” Elizabeth was so humbled by Mary’s visit. Mary was chosen by God to be the mother of Jesus.

Notice how Elizabeth acknowledged Mary’s child as, “my Lord;” Jesus would become Elisabeth’s personal Lord and Savior. Elizabeth, by the Holy Spirit, gave Mary confirmation and assurance of all that was told her by the angel Gabriel. Imagine, Mary stayed with someone from within her own family who completely understood her situation. Mary may have felt alone as a young, unmarried, pregnant teenager, but she found solace with her cousin Elizabeth. Elizabeth was a woman in tune with God’s purposes, and Mary must have been encouraged and comforted by her friendship.

Like Mary and Elizabeth, are you in tune with God’s plans and purposes? Do you recognize Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior? If you do this day, the Christmas story will take on a whole new, blessed meaning. Imagine, you will rejoice as you become one of the blessed believers in Christ!

“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel,
for He has visited and redeemed His people.”
~Luke 1:68~

SUNDAY December 9, 2018

For With God Nothing is Impossible

Luke 1:36-38

The angel Gabriel greatly encouraged Mary; the Lord had already been at work in the life of her cousin Elizabeth. She had been barren, and yet God did the impossible; miraculously, a child was conceived in her lifeless womb. God did something far greater, in the life of Mary. As a virgin, she would carry the Son of God in her womb.

Mary, moved by faith, willingly agreed to be used by the Lord and voiced her full submission to God’s plan. Mary’s reaction to the angel’s words revealed her heart of faith, which was very different from Zacharias the priest. When he was told by the angel Gabriel that Elizabeth was to have a child, he questioned the possibility, thinking they were too old to have children. Zacharias was rebuked by the angel for his unbelief, but Mary, by faith, was delighted to do the will of God.

In Psalm 40:8, David expressed his attitude towards doing the will of God. He wrote: I delight to do Your will, O my God, and Your law is within my heart. This Psalm was also prophetical; it spoke of Christ and His willingness to do His Father’s will. Jesus said to the people who followed Him: “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (John 6:38). What was the Father’s perfect will in the life of Christ? He was to die for the sins of the world (John 3:16), to give salvation to anyone who believed in Him.

When the rich young ruler walked away from Christ because he would not give up his riches to follow Him, the Lord told His disciples that it was “easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” His disciples replied, “Who then can be saved?” (Matthew 19:24-25)

“With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
~Matthew 19:26~

SATURDAY December 8, 2018

Holy One––the Son of God

Luke 1:34-35

In awe and wonder, Mary inquired how this miracle of Christ’s conception would happen. She questioned, but never doubted God’s Word in unbelief. The angel answered her finite mind’s curiosity. The Holy Spirit, who is the third person of the Trinity, would come upon Mary, and the power of God would overshadow her. She would carry the precious Seed within her womb. Jesus, the Son of God, would be born of Mary.

Throughout the Bible, the Trinity is seen––one God in three persons, all having the same divine attributes. God the Father is holy (Isaiah 6:3); Jesus, God’s Son, is holy (Acts 3:14-15); and the Spirit is called the Holy Spirit (Luke 11:13) On one occasion, an unclean spirit––demon––recognized Jesus as the Holy One and said: “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!” (Luke 4:34)

Only a holy sacrifice could suffice for the sacrifice of our sins. The Apostle John confirms in 1 John 3:5, that Jesus had no sin: And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin. Jesus met the requirements to be a holy sacrifice for our sins:

…knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot (1 Peter 1:18-19).

If the demons know the authoritative names of Jesus, how much more should you?

Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name…
~Philippians 2:9~

FRIDAY December 7, 2018

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

Today is the 77th anniversary of the surprise, aerial attack on Pearl Harbor, a naval base on the Island of Oahu, Hawaii. The Japanese, who anticipated that the United States would enter into World War 2, sent about 200 aircraft in a wave of attacks which decimated the airfields, destroyed more than 300 aircrafts, and 20 American naval ships. More than 2,400 Americans died, including civilians on the island, and 1,000 more people were left wounded. The Japanese goal was to destroy the Pacific fleet.

One survivor on board the USS Arizona said he saw more courage, more heroics, more valor and more sacrifice, that day, than a person should see in ten life times. The next day, President Franklin D. Roosevelt asked congress to declare war on Japan, stating this was, “A day that will remain in infamy.” The President gave a speech condemning the attack and asking the US Congress for a state of war, and concluded:

With confidence in our armed forces, with the unbounding determination of our people, we will gain the inevitable triumph––so help us God. I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, Dec. 7, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese empire.

On August 15, 1945, an announcement was made that Imperial Japan had surrendered. The surrender was officially signed on September 2, 1945, and, finally the conflicts of World War 2 were brought to a close.

We resolve that our strength, our vigilance, and our devotion will forever keep America the land of the free and the home of the brave. We resolve that we will keep faith with those we have loved and lost. And we resolve that, always, we will remember Pearl Harbor.
~Ronald Reagan~

THURSDAY December 6, 2018

Son of the Highest

Luke 1:32-33

Notice, the angel proclaimed that the birth of Jesus would eventually fulfill the prophetic promise given to King David. God, the Father, will give to His Son the throne of David to secure His kingdom forever (2 Samuel 7:16). Jesus, the Son of the Highest, God coming in flesh (John 1:14), was born into the earthly bloodline of King David:

…concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh, and declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness (Romans 1:3-4).

When Jesus came to earth, He took on a human nature. So Jesus now has two natures, earthly and divine. Immanuel––God with us, showing He is divine. Jesus wept, for He is also human. He is both human and divine. A troubled demon knew of Jesus’ divinity. He used Jesus’ title, “Son of the Most High God” as he addressed Him:

And he cried out with a loud voice and said, “What have I to do with You, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I implore You by God that You do not torment me” (Mark 5:7).

Jesus, Son of the Highest, came––to die on the cross, so we could be forgiven of our sins and so we could spend eternity with Him (John 14:1-3). Hebrews 2:9 plainly tells us the reason He took on mortal flesh:

But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that He, by the grace of God, might taste death for everyone.

Christ was God, not because he was virgin born.
He was virgin born because he was God.
~Robert Clarke~

WEDNESDAY December 5, 2018

His Name is Jesus

Luke 1:29-31

Mary was troubled––unsettled in her thoughts––but the angel reassured the trembling woman. Mary had found favor with God. Then the angel told her the most amazing message: Mary would conceive in her womb, a Son; she would name him––JESUS. This miracle would be a fulfillment of Scripture found in Isaiah 7:14: Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel––God with us.

Imagine, Mary, a young teenager, had been chosen to carry Jesus in her womb. The Jewish people knew the Scriptures and understood by them, the Messiah would be born. In Luke 1:54-55, apart of the Song of Mary, this young virgin knew of God’s prophecy: “He has helped His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy, as He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever.”

Mary’s child was to be called JESUS. In Hebrew this name was, Yehoshua, shortened to Joshua, which means “Yahweh is salvation.” What was the purpose of His birth? The name JESUS relates to us His mission––for He will save His people from their sins (Matthew 1:21).

Jesus is not only the Savior for the Jewish nation, but for the salvation of the whole world! This Christmas, are you mindful of His great mercy and love? Then sing praises to Him!

Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her king. Let every heart prepare Him room…
~Isaac Watts~

TUESDAY December 4, 2018

Rejoice, Highly Favored One

Luke 1:26-28

The angel Gabriel, during the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, was sent by God to give another incredible message. This time, the angel went into a city in Galilee––Nazareth––to Mary––a young virgin. She was engaged to be married to Joseph, and must have been shocked to be approached by an angel with such an amazing salutation!

The angel told her to rejoice, because in God’s sight she was highly favored; His holy presence was with her. Mary was blessed among women. But how would she be blessed? God had a plan for her life––more than she could ever imagine.

Mary did not yet fully understand the reason for the angel’s visit, but the message of the angel would be in accordance with the prophecies recorded in the Old Testament Scriptures. She was a human vessel, chosen, among all the women on earth, to perfectly fit into God’s plan. Everything was about to fall into place; she would soon understand.

Most Christians do not have encounters with angels; our life changing experiences are usually based on God’s Word. He transforms our lives (2 Timothy 3:16-17). and then begins to use us to do His will on earth. God, in His wisdom, often does not show us His entire plan for our lives––He takes us on a journey of faith, one step at a time. Even if we do not understand the path God is leading us on, we must simply trust in Him.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He shall direct your paths.
~Proverbs 3:5-6~

MONDAY December 3, 2018

Turning People to the Lord

Luke 1:14-17

The angel Gabriel told Zacharias, a priest, that his wife Elizabeth would have a son. He was to name his son John, meaning, “God is gracious.” What was God’s plan for his life? John had the same vow as a Nazarite, he would drink no wine. He was to be set apart for the work of the Lord.

As John developed in his mother’s womb; he was already filled with the Holy Spirit. His mission was to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. John the Baptist would prepare the way for Jesus Christ so that when He came, the people would be ready to receive Him as their Savior.

In his life, John the Baptist never promoted himself, but proclaimed to the people the Messiah––Jesus Christ. He knew his ministry would decrease as Jesus Christ’s ministry increased. John the Baptist would preach to the Jews who would come to know the Messiah. King Herod would place John in prison. Jesus would speak to the multitudes saying:

“For this is he of whom it is written: ‘Behold, I send My messenger before Your face, Who will prepare Your way before You.’ Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist…” (Mathew 11:9-10).

Like John the Baptist, how can you be used in preparing people to receive Jesus Christ? May God fill you with His Holy Spirit and use your life to turn many others to the Lord this Christmas.

This Christmas, accept Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord. Give Him the gift that He wants––your heart, your soul, your life.
~Billy Graham~

SUNDAY December 2, 2018

Silence was Broken

Luke 1:11-13

The Christmas story began when 400 years of silence was broken. Zacharias, one of the priests, performed his regular duties burning incense in the temple while the people prayed outside (Luke 1:8-10). They waited and marveled that he took so long. When Zacharias came out of the temple, he could not speak. The people supposed he had seen a vision in the temple. Zacharias gestured to them, but he remained speechless (Luke 1:21-23).

What had Zacharias seen? He had seen the angel Gabriel who brought him a message from the Lord. Zacharias’ wife Elizabeth, who was beyond the age of childbearing, would become pregnant. God had heard the prayers of this dedicated priest. The angel Gabriel told Zacharias to name his son John. The voice of the Lord had not been heard among His people. Imagine, at that very moment, 400 years of silence was broken.

As Elizabeth and Zacharias continued to serve God faithfully, obediently walking in all the Lord’s commandments, God’s plans and purposes were being fulfilled in their lives. Not only were they chosen to become the parents of John, they would hold a special part in the story of the Savior’s birth. John was Jesus’ cousin, and he would herald, “The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).

Did you know that God has a purpose and a plan for each of our lives? As we walk with God in obedience to His Word, His plans will naturally unfold in our lives.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
~Jeremiah 29:11~

SATURDAY December 1, 2018

The Certainty of the Gospel

Luke 1:1-3

Luke was not an Apostle; he was a Greek who wrote the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts. He knew Theophilus––a great Roman governor. It is believed that Luke was a physician and the governor’s personal doctor. He took the opportunity to write and share with Theophilus an orderly account of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Understand, the Bible is not an ordinary book; it is God’s inspired Word. At this particular time in history, the voice of the Lord had not been heard for 400 years. From the last book of the Old Testament––Malachi, to the first book of the New Testament––Matthew, in-between those two books, the old and the new, there was nothing but silence for a four hundred year period. The Word of God had not been heard; God had not spoken to man. There had been no visions, no dreams nor angels sent with a message among His people. The Word of God had ceased as His judgment came upon the nation of Israel.

Then, according to God’s plan, He began to reveal His light through a young man that would be born––John the Baptist. He would preach the straight forward message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ––repent or burn. The people needed to turn from their sins and repent. When was the last time you shared the certainty of the Gospel, as seen in the Scriptures, with someone? It will bring conviction to their hearts and save them!

God is not silent. It is the nature of God to speak. The second person of the Holy Trinity is called ‘The Word’
~A.W.Tozer~

FRIDAY November 30, 2018

The Holy Presence of God

1 Samuel 6:21

Notice, the people of Beth Shemesh began to recognize that God was powerful, God was great, and God was holy. Their ungodly actions had caused the death of so many. The only way God could truly bless His people was to bring them back into a reverence for His holiness. They needed to reverently come into His presence and bow before Him in Spirit and in truth.

A decision was made by the people of Beth Shemesh to send for other priests who knew the right way to handle the holy articles of God:

Then the men of Kirjath Jearim came and took the ark of the LORD, and brought it into the house of Abinadab… and consecrated Eleazar his son to keep the ark of the LORD (1 Samuel 7:1).

The Ark of the Covenant would remain in Kirjath Jearim, meaning, “town of the forests,” a long time. It would be twenty years before Israel would return to the LORD with all their hearts (I Samuel 7:2-3), and about fifty years before David would bring the Ark to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6). What a long time for the people in the city to have missed out on the blessings and presence of the Lord among them.

I think about the many different churches and individuals who have missed out on the blessings of God. I have seen many church leaders fall into sin. It is often their wives and children who pay the consequences for their sin and disobedience. We serve a God who is perfect and holy. If only men, as leaders, would recognize the holiness of God and desire to have the presence of God back into their lives! Only then will the blessings of God and the return of His presence be with them and their homes.

Do you desire the blessings and presence of God to return to your life?

The Christian life is to live all of your life in the presence of God.
~R.C. Sproul~

THURSDAY November 29, 2018

Standing Before a Holy God

1 Samuel 6:20

When the men of Beth Shemesh opened the lid to the Ark, judgment came. God immediately brought a great slaughter. They recognized that God was holy, yet they had not respected the holiness of God. In response to God’s judgment, the men of Beth Shemesh asked a good question, “Who is able to stand before this holy God?” The only true answer is, “Only those who are made righteous in Christ Jesus!”

The Bible clearly states: But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption… (1 Corinthians 1:30). Only those in Christ are able to stand before a holy God in righteousness. A further explanation is given in 2 Corinthians 5:21: For He made Him [Christ] who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

In the book of Exodus, Moses asked if He could see God. The Lord told him: “You cannot see My face; for no man shall see Me, and live.” (Exodus 33:20, John 1:18).Through Moses’ brother Aaron came the priesthood. A person who was a high priest could not approach a holy God without holiness in his own life; otherwise, his life would be forfeited.

It is the same with us; we cannot serve God while in sin. God is holy and we are to be holy––separate to God: But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:15-16). Do you now understand how Christians are able to stand before a holy God?

Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD? Or who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to an idol, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
~Psalm 24:3-5~

WEDNESDAY November 28, 2018

Approaching the Holiness of God

1 Samuel 6:19

Why did God bring such a great slaughter among the people of Israel? The men had taken the lid off the Ark of God and looked inside. Apart from what the Philistines had placed inside the Ark, what else would they have seen? Three objects inside––Aaron’s rod that budded, the jar of manna, and the Ten Commandments. There may be some of you who say, “So what if they saw the three items––nothing wrong with that!”

God clearly spoke to my heart. Here were unclean men––sinners––who were looking into the holiness of God. Those who looked into the Ark of God were not consecrated. In their excitement to see the Ark, they became careless and looked inside. They had no respect for the holiness of God. Remember the movie, Raiders of the Lost Ark? God did not judge them like that, but those men who looked inside the Ark were struck by the LORD with a great slaughter.

Understand that when we try to do the work of God in our own righteousness, God will not bless it. You cannot handle the things of God without holiness. If you are going to serve the Lord, he wants you to be set apart––holy. He cannot bless people who are not holy; there has to be holiness in our lives. God will not put up with sin. God is holy. If you are not set apart––holy, then expect to receive the judgment of God.

Especially if you are a leader in the Church, you are held more accountable than anyone else––you cannot excuse yourself, because you have been taught the holiness of God. Hebrews 12:14 tells us: Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.

The Gospel is not an announcement that God has relaxed His justice or lowered the standard of His holiness.
~Arthur W. Pink~

TUESDAY November 27, 2018

Trespass Offerings

1 Samuel 6:17-18

Why did the Philistines send back golden tumors and golden rats inside the Ark? They gave them as a “trespass offering.” In Israel, a trespass offering was made by sacrificing a ram or lamb. It also involved restitution. God forgave a person, but He also expected them to make good for any wrongdoing:

“If a person sins and commits a trespass against the LORD… he shall restore what he has stolen, or the thing which he has extorted, or what was delivered to him for safekeeping, or the lost thing which he found, or… sworn falsely. He shall restore its full value, add one-fifth more to it, and give it to whomever it belongs, on the day of his trespass offering” (Leviticus 6:2, 4-5).

The gold from the Philistines was restitution for taking the Ark and dishonoring God. A New Testament example of making restitution is that of Zacchaeus. He was a tax collector who extorted money from the people of Israel. Jesus forgave him of his sin. As a Christian, Zacchaeus restored all that he had taken from the people––fourfold (Luke 19:8).

Jesus has forgiven you for your sins, but have you made things right? Have you given a recompense for anything stolen or said and done to others?

Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, …to give him who has need.
~Ephesians 4:28~

MONDAY November 26, 2018

Sacrifices of Consecration

I Samuel 6:15-16

The men of Beth Shemesh received the Ark of God and offered burnt offerings to the Lord––sacrifices of consecration. I am sure the Philistines were relieved to be rid of the Ark because of all the plagues they had suffered. When the five lords of the Philistines observed the Ark was well received, they returned back to Ekron––one of the five cities of Philistines.

The Book of Leviticus explains the different types of burnt offerings the priests offered to the Lord in the tabernacle. Leviticus is known as the book of holiness because the word, “holy,” is used more in the Book of Leviticus than in any other book of the Bible. In Leviticus 20:7-8, God’s people were told:

“ ‘Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am the LORD your God. And you shall keep My statutes, and perform them: I am the LORD who sanctifies you.’ ”

God’s people were to be set apart. They were given detailed instructions on how the various sacrifices should be performed. Understand that in the Old Testament, the only way to approach a holy God and receive forgiveness of sin was through sacrifices. The people of Beth Shemesh completed sacrifices that symbolized consecration to the Lord.

In the New Testament, sacrifices are no longer made. Jesus Christ became a living sacrifice for us. We are able to approach a holy God only because of Him.

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.
~Romans 12:1~

SUNDAY November 25, 2018

A Time to Rejoice!

1 Samuel 6:13-14

As the Ark of God arrived at Beth Shemesh, the people of the city were outside reaping the wheat harvest. They became excited at the sight of the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark represented God’s presence among His people. God was back among them, and they would be blessed. It had been seven months (1 Samuel 6:1) since they had seen the Ark, and they greatly rejoiced to see it!

During Israel’s history, they went through different seasons. The nation suffered great distress and oppression. Often their sorrow was due to their lack of obedience to the Lord. Yet there were times of dancing and rejoicing as God, in answer to their cries, delivered them from their affliction in Egypt:

And the LORD said: “I have surely seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters, for I know their sorrows. So I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians…” (Exodus 3:7-8).

Then Moses and the children of Israel sang this song to the LORD, and spoke, saying: “I will sing to the LORD, For He has triumphed gloriously! The horse and its rider He has thrown into the sea!” …Then Miriam the prophetess… and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances (Exodus 15:1, 20).

Life can bring different seasons of sorrow and rejoicing, but too often your seasons of sorrow can be due to your own disobedience. If this is so, call on the name of the Lord; He will bring back into you times of rejoicing!

You have multiplied the nation and increased its joy; they rejoice before You according to the joy of harvest, as men rejoice
when they divide the spoil.
~Isaiah 9:3~

SATURDAY November 24, 2018

Divine Direction

1 Samuel 6:12

The Philistines placed the Ark of God on a cart and hitched two milk cows that headed down the road to Beth Shemesh, meaning, “the House of the Sun.” The place was a priestly city. Since the priestly line had become corrupted, resulting in the death of Eli and his sons, the priests were found to be unfit to lead and teach the people––sad.

The cows were lowing as they went. They were separated from their calves and were displeased. The animals did not want to go, but they finally adjusted. God was directing them. They knew their Creator. God’s sovereign hand was guiding the cows to take the Ark to its new destination. The Ark was no longer in the hands of Israel’s enemies.

In the same way, God’s sovereign hand worked in the life of Elijah. He told him to go hide by the brook Cherith, and during the drought, He would send ravens to feed him bread and meat:

“Get away from here and turn eastward, and hide by the Brook Cherith, which flows into the Jordan. And it will be that you shall drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there” (1 Kings 17:3-4).

On another occasion, Elijah fled from the wicked Queen Jezebel who sought to kill him; God, once again, fed him as he slept under a tree:

…suddenly an angel touched him, and said to him, “Arise and eat.” Then he looked, and there by his head was a cake baked on coals, and a jar of water (1 Kings 19:5-6).

When you go through a trial, the sovereignty of God is the pillow upon which you lay your head.
~C. H. Spurgeon~