Numbers 16
Rebellion against Moses and Aaron
Korah, with Dathan and Abiram, and 250 leaders of the congregation rebelled against Moses and Aaron. They asked Moses and Aaron why they exalted themselves above the congregation that is holy. Moses then fell on his face and told Korah and his company to take censers, put fire and incense in them before the Lord the next day, and that the Lord will show who is His and who is holy. Moses then rebuked them. He also sent to call Dathan and Abiram, yet they rebelled and argued with him. Moses was very angry and told God not to respect their offering.
Moses was very angry but he did not sin in his anger. He just prayed to God and told them to prepare for the next day. Each time we’re angry about something or at someone, let’s turn our anger to God instead and pray about it so that we will not sin.
The next day, the Lord appeared to the congregation and told Moses to tell the congregation to get away from the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram. God split the ground and the earth swallowed them up (how creative can God be right? it’s like in the cartoons..amazing..). Through this, it is proven that the Lord has send Moses as they did not die naturally. The Lord then told Moses to tell Eleazar to pick up the censers out of the blaze and hammer out as a covering on the altar to remind the children of Israel.
We can see that Moses’ relationship with the Lord is really very close as he can speak so confidently to the congregation that if those men died naturally, the Lord has not sent him. He was very sure that the Lord has sent him. Let us also be close to God that we may hear Him speak so clearly that we can live our lives confidently knowing what He has for us and being certain that He has sent us out to do His work =)
Obey our leaders too. Don’t rebel against them or argue with them. Make their work easier. It’s also beneficial to us when we obey because we are obeying God when we obey our leaders.
Heb 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.”
Murmuring of the people
The children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron and God sent a plague to consume them. Aaron made atonement for the people and the plague stopped at the point he stood in (imagine those from the point after Aaron who didn’t die say ‘heng ah never die’).
This is madness. Even after what God had done to Korah and his company, the people still dared to talk bad about Moses and Aaron. They quite deserve the plague right? But nice Moses still wanted to make atonement for them. Don’t take God’s grace and mercy for granted.
Suddenly it dawned upon me that when we do what is right before the Lord, there’s bound to be people out there who will talk bad and gossip about us. But who cares! We live for God and as long as we are righteous before God, He will deal with those people in His time. So no worries!
Numbers 17
The Budding of Aaron’s rod
God told Moses to get a rod from each of the leaders, and for the rod of Levi to have Aaron’s name on it, then to place them in the Tabernacle of meeting before the Testimony. The rod of the man whom God choose will blossom so that the people will not murmur against Moses and Aaron. Aaron’s rod sprouted and put forth buds, with blossoms and ripe almonds.
God’s so smart. Indeed His ways are higher than our ways. He has His ways of doing things that we can never expect. He did this so as to shut the people up, to let them see that He has chosen Aaron. Glory to God. =)
Friday, March 02, 2007
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Numbers 14 - 15, Psalms 90 (1st Mar) - Kelvin
Numbers 14
Over here, we see a similar situation happening back in the book of Exodus; the Israelites are grumbling again! I cannot believe this myself but God reminded me that many of us are actually like them sometimes if we look into the 'mirror'.
In verse 33 of chapter 13, those who went to explore the land realised the people were bigger size than themselves and they were so afraid and without fighting, they already think they are bound to lose. A similar comparison would be sometimes, we think that we are not as good as the ' ang mohs' because they are much better in terms of physique and strength.
Of course, my focus here is not about all these but on the fact that the Israelites do trust the Lord. They do not trust Him as who He demostrated Himself to them as - a God full of miracles. They even thought of stoning Caleb and Joshua who were full of faith in the Lord. As a result,the Israelites lost the Greater Blessing of the Lord.
Therefore, brothers and sisters, let us not trust the Lord partially because it is still disobedience and preferring to do things according to what we see and not according to what we cannot see - which is the work of the Lord.
Numbers 15
Here, the Lord prepares the Israelites on the offerings which they are commanded to do after they enter the land which He is giving to them.
Psalms 90
The way which Moses pray to God is just so beautiful. It shows depth and understanding of the Lord's character. It reveals the Glory of God and His Justice to me. Out of righteouness, He displays kindness to Moses and his people. Surely, from the way Moses pray to God, he knows Him as a loving God who is willing to bless us. The Lord is good, so let us walk with Him with a prayerful life.
Over here, we see a similar situation happening back in the book of Exodus; the Israelites are grumbling again! I cannot believe this myself but God reminded me that many of us are actually like them sometimes if we look into the 'mirror'.
In verse 33 of chapter 13, those who went to explore the land realised the people were bigger size than themselves and they were so afraid and without fighting, they already think they are bound to lose. A similar comparison would be sometimes, we think that we are not as good as the ' ang mohs' because they are much better in terms of physique and strength.
Of course, my focus here is not about all these but on the fact that the Israelites do trust the Lord. They do not trust Him as who He demostrated Himself to them as - a God full of miracles. They even thought of stoning Caleb and Joshua who were full of faith in the Lord. As a result,the Israelites lost the Greater Blessing of the Lord.
Therefore, brothers and sisters, let us not trust the Lord partially because it is still disobedience and preferring to do things according to what we see and not according to what we cannot see - which is the work of the Lord.
Numbers 15
Here, the Lord prepares the Israelites on the offerings which they are commanded to do after they enter the land which He is giving to them.
Psalms 90
The way which Moses pray to God is just so beautiful. It shows depth and understanding of the Lord's character. It reveals the Glory of God and His Justice to me. Out of righteouness, He displays kindness to Moses and his people. Surely, from the way Moses pray to God, he knows Him as a loving God who is willing to bless us. The Lord is good, so let us walk with Him with a prayerful life.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Numbers 11 - 13 (28th Feb) - Xiao Woon
Numbers 11
The People Complain
The children of Israel complained about the food that God provided for them. They had intense craving for meat and they wept. They compared with the food they had back in Egypt and kept complaining. God’s anger was greatly aroused. Moses was also displeased when he heard them weeping. Moses then blamed God, saying that God gave him the burden of the people which is too heavy for him to bear.
God provided them with manna, yet they complained. Sometimes we are just so irritating. When God provides us with something, we are not contented and do not thank God for providing but instead ask for more. Let us not de2 cun4 jin4 chi3 with God…
Do we blame God too? At times when we face trials and tribulations, do we not look to God for help and thank God for the circumstances in which we can learn from, but instead blame Him for whatever that we are facing?
It is so easy to complain and blame God for something bad that happened in our lives for it is in our sinful nature to do so. However, always remember that everything happens for a reason. God will not let us suffer so that He can be happy in our sufferings (He is not sadistic)…but He allowed/placed circumstances in our lives so that we may learn from them, and to help mould our characters.
Let’s not complain/blame, but give thanks to God for EVERYTHING. It is not easy to give thanks in our problems, but let us try our best to do so=)
The Seventy Elders
The Lord told Moses to gather seventy elders to the tabernacle of meeting so that He may speak to them. The Lord told Moses that He will take of the Spirit upon Moses and will put upon the elders, that they may bear the burden of the people with him. He also told Moses to tell the people to sanctify themselves and they will eat meat for a whole month, until it comes out of their nostrils (imagine meat coming out of your nose!) and becomes loathsome to them. Sense the Lord’s anger in His tone of speaking about this.
Moses doubted God’s ability to provide the meat for so many people and God just told him to see if His word is true.
The Lord sends Quail
The Lord brought quail through a wind and the people gathered the quail, but before they could chew it, the Lord struck them with a great plague. (Imagine u die at the moment u were able to bite the food that u craved for. Sian right.)
The Lord is good to Moses despite him blaming Him. He lightened his load by spreading the burden to the elders. Let us not take God’s goodness for granted. Never doubt God’s ability! He is not called Lord Almighty for nothing! He is the God of miracles!
Numbers 12
Dissension of Aaron and Miriam
Aaron and Miriam spoke against Moses. The anger of the Lord was aroused and Miriam became leprous when the cloud departed from above the tabernacle. Moses cried out for God to heal her. God shut her out of the camp for seven days then she was brought in again.
Let us not speak against anyone so that we may be right before God. Don’t wait till God teaches us a lesson then we realize that we’ve sinned. Always keep check of the words we speak out and our actions so that we may be right before God.
Numbers 13
Spies sent into Canaan
God told Moses to send men to spy out the land of Canaan, which He is giving to the children of Israel. So Moses sent men who were heads of the children of Israel. They returned from spying out the land after forty days and brought back word to them and showed them the fruit of the land. They told Moses that the land indeed flows with milk and honey, that the people there are strong, the cities are fortified and very large. Caleb said they should go up and take possession of the land, for they can certainly do it. But the men who gone up with him said that those people were stronger than the Israelites. They then spread a bad report of the land to the Israelites, saying that it is a land that devours its inhabitants.
Verse 33: “We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.”
Rev Melyvn Mak once mentioned this verse and the learning point was that what u perceived yourself to be will be what others perceive of you. So if you see yourself as someone small and easily defeated, then you will appear small in the way you portray yourself and people will then see you as small and easily defeated.
Do not look down on yourself. You are a son/daughter of God! Not by might, not by power, but by the Spirit of God that we can do what we cannot on our own =)
Praise the Lord! =)
The People Complain
The children of Israel complained about the food that God provided for them. They had intense craving for meat and they wept. They compared with the food they had back in Egypt and kept complaining. God’s anger was greatly aroused. Moses was also displeased when he heard them weeping. Moses then blamed God, saying that God gave him the burden of the people which is too heavy for him to bear.
God provided them with manna, yet they complained. Sometimes we are just so irritating. When God provides us with something, we are not contented and do not thank God for providing but instead ask for more. Let us not de2 cun4 jin4 chi3 with God…
Do we blame God too? At times when we face trials and tribulations, do we not look to God for help and thank God for the circumstances in which we can learn from, but instead blame Him for whatever that we are facing?
It is so easy to complain and blame God for something bad that happened in our lives for it is in our sinful nature to do so. However, always remember that everything happens for a reason. God will not let us suffer so that He can be happy in our sufferings (He is not sadistic)…but He allowed/placed circumstances in our lives so that we may learn from them, and to help mould our characters.
Let’s not complain/blame, but give thanks to God for EVERYTHING. It is not easy to give thanks in our problems, but let us try our best to do so=)
The Seventy Elders
The Lord told Moses to gather seventy elders to the tabernacle of meeting so that He may speak to them. The Lord told Moses that He will take of the Spirit upon Moses and will put upon the elders, that they may bear the burden of the people with him. He also told Moses to tell the people to sanctify themselves and they will eat meat for a whole month, until it comes out of their nostrils (imagine meat coming out of your nose!) and becomes loathsome to them. Sense the Lord’s anger in His tone of speaking about this.
Moses doubted God’s ability to provide the meat for so many people and God just told him to see if His word is true.
The Lord sends Quail
The Lord brought quail through a wind and the people gathered the quail, but before they could chew it, the Lord struck them with a great plague. (Imagine u die at the moment u were able to bite the food that u craved for. Sian right.)
The Lord is good to Moses despite him blaming Him. He lightened his load by spreading the burden to the elders. Let us not take God’s goodness for granted. Never doubt God’s ability! He is not called Lord Almighty for nothing! He is the God of miracles!
Numbers 12
Dissension of Aaron and Miriam
Aaron and Miriam spoke against Moses. The anger of the Lord was aroused and Miriam became leprous when the cloud departed from above the tabernacle. Moses cried out for God to heal her. God shut her out of the camp for seven days then she was brought in again.
Let us not speak against anyone so that we may be right before God. Don’t wait till God teaches us a lesson then we realize that we’ve sinned. Always keep check of the words we speak out and our actions so that we may be right before God.
Numbers 13
Spies sent into Canaan
God told Moses to send men to spy out the land of Canaan, which He is giving to the children of Israel. So Moses sent men who were heads of the children of Israel. They returned from spying out the land after forty days and brought back word to them and showed them the fruit of the land. They told Moses that the land indeed flows with milk and honey, that the people there are strong, the cities are fortified and very large. Caleb said they should go up and take possession of the land, for they can certainly do it. But the men who gone up with him said that those people were stronger than the Israelites. They then spread a bad report of the land to the Israelites, saying that it is a land that devours its inhabitants.
Verse 33: “We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.”
Rev Melyvn Mak once mentioned this verse and the learning point was that what u perceived yourself to be will be what others perceive of you. So if you see yourself as someone small and easily defeated, then you will appear small in the way you portray yourself and people will then see you as small and easily defeated.
Do not look down on yourself. You are a son/daughter of God! Not by might, not by power, but by the Spirit of God that we can do what we cannot on our own =)
Praise the Lord! =)
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Numbers 8 - 10 (27th Feb)
This is just a summary of the next 3 chapters.
Numbers 8
Levites were to present themselves to the Lord. They were told to purify themselves so that they can do the work of God (v7-11). We need to stay pure and holy too so that we can do the work of God.
Numbers 9 & 10
The Israelites celebrated the Passover and also the glory of God was seen. The cloud covers over the tabernacle. It was later the Israelites leaves and the whole tabernacle will be dismantled and moved. They moved from Sinai to Paran. They moved out tribe by tribe. The first 3 tribes Judah, Issachar and Zebulun will move out first followed by the Levites (Gershonites & Merarites) will move with the tabernacle. Then the next 3 tribes, Reuben, Simeon and Gad will follow behind then followed by the other Levites (Kohathites) will carry the rest of the holy things in the tabernacle along. Before Kohathites arrived, the tabernacle must already set up by Gershoites and Merarites, so that all the holy things can be placed inside the tabernacle (v21). The rest of the tribes followed behind.
Numbers 8
Levites were to present themselves to the Lord. They were told to purify themselves so that they can do the work of God (v7-11). We need to stay pure and holy too so that we can do the work of God.
Numbers 9 & 10
The Israelites celebrated the Passover and also the glory of God was seen. The cloud covers over the tabernacle. It was later the Israelites leaves and the whole tabernacle will be dismantled and moved. They moved from Sinai to Paran. They moved out tribe by tribe. The first 3 tribes Judah, Issachar and Zebulun will move out first followed by the Levites (Gershonites & Merarites) will move with the tabernacle. Then the next 3 tribes, Reuben, Simeon and Gad will follow behind then followed by the other Levites (Kohathites) will carry the rest of the holy things in the tabernacle along. Before Kohathites arrived, the tabernacle must already set up by Gershoites and Merarites, so that all the holy things can be placed inside the tabernacle (v21). The rest of the tribes followed behind.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Numbers 7 (26th Feb) - Josh
Last few days we started into the book of numbers.
Numbers is a record of the Israelite's journey before conquest (end numbers - start joshua). The journey is typically divided into 2 segments.
1. Sinai wilderness.
2. Plains of Moab
Numbers is commonly known among christians to be the book where Israel's 11day journey became a 40yr punishment wandering in the sinai desert. The chief reason: A rebellious people without faith. We know what God did. - But do we? As we look deeper into number, going through the events before judgement occurs (numbers 14:20-23), we can see this:
The ongoing discipline and love of God.
1. God prepared His people
In His love, from chapter 1-4, God started organizing the army and the altar worship as they move into a land of enemies. Both spiritual (idols) and physical. God's heart is to create a strong nation both outwardly and inwardly to truly be a nation set apart, different in might and spirit and stand against evil opposition.
2. God disciplined His people.
Chapter 5-6, God reaffirmed His desire for Israel to be zealous for Holiness. Not just plain acceptance but active participation. And ending off in chapter 6, God reciprocated his love and desire to be close to His people (v24-27). What amazes me, is the fact that God is so patient and relenting with them.
As I read chapter 7 with in mind the last 6 chapter, it dawns on me,
The ongoing discipline and love of God instills loyalty and operational readiness.
Chapter 7 marks a historical moment in Israel's History. The commanders of each army dedicated their division (a military term depicting a rank system of soldiers) to God. The names of each commander hand picked by God to organize the army is the same commanders dedicating their division.
To me, it reminded me of the day I commissioned as an officer. The first time I don my military uniform in officer's rank, saluted the rising Singapore flag as I sang Majulah Singapura. I recall the months of training and discipline to the day of commissioning. - My naval officer training prepared me to be loyal and operationally ready.
In the same way, we are all called to be loyal and ready for our King's command. To engage our enemy and our destiny. To stand up against what is wrong. And setting the captives free. It takes years of training and disciplining. May we not lose heart and turn away from His love and discipline but keep our mind to what He loves.
"My son/daughter, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son." - Heb 12:6
Numbers is a record of the Israelite's journey before conquest (end numbers - start joshua). The journey is typically divided into 2 segments.
1. Sinai wilderness.
2. Plains of Moab
Numbers is commonly known among christians to be the book where Israel's 11day journey became a 40yr punishment wandering in the sinai desert. The chief reason: A rebellious people without faith. We know what God did. - But do we? As we look deeper into number, going through the events before judgement occurs (numbers 14:20-23), we can see this:
The ongoing discipline and love of God.
1. God prepared His people
In His love, from chapter 1-4, God started organizing the army and the altar worship as they move into a land of enemies. Both spiritual (idols) and physical. God's heart is to create a strong nation both outwardly and inwardly to truly be a nation set apart, different in might and spirit and stand against evil opposition.
2. God disciplined His people.
Chapter 5-6, God reaffirmed His desire for Israel to be zealous for Holiness. Not just plain acceptance but active participation. And ending off in chapter 6, God reciprocated his love and desire to be close to His people (v24-27). What amazes me, is the fact that God is so patient and relenting with them.
As I read chapter 7 with in mind the last 6 chapter, it dawns on me,
The ongoing discipline and love of God instills loyalty and operational readiness.
Chapter 7 marks a historical moment in Israel's History. The commanders of each army dedicated their division (a military term depicting a rank system of soldiers) to God. The names of each commander hand picked by God to organize the army is the same commanders dedicating their division.
To me, it reminded me of the day I commissioned as an officer. The first time I don my military uniform in officer's rank, saluted the rising Singapore flag as I sang Majulah Singapura. I recall the months of training and discipline to the day of commissioning. - My naval officer training prepared me to be loyal and operationally ready.
In the same way, we are all called to be loyal and ready for our King's command. To engage our enemy and our destiny. To stand up against what is wrong. And setting the captives free. It takes years of training and disciplining. May we not lose heart and turn away from His love and discipline but keep our mind to what He loves.
"My son/daughter, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son." - Heb 12:6
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Numbers 5 - 6 (25th Feb) - Ivy
Numbers 5
The Purity of the Camp
The Lord speaks to Moses about the purity of his camp.
Verse 2: Command the Israelites to send away from the camp anyone who has an infectious skin disease or a discharge of any kind
I pondered: Is God unmerciful by sending the sick away? However I believe this person may have sinned against the Lord suffered the consequence of the disease and have to be sent away. Purity to the Lord could have been breached. This applies to both men and women.
Restitution for Wrongs
Notice it is a sin to malign others. It is UNFAITHFULNESS to God. Wow….
The Test for an Unfaithful Wife
If a man is unsure but suspects his wife of being unfaithful, he is to prepare a grain of guilt offering. Just in case he ‘malign’ her and cause him to be unfaithful to God. He is to bring the matter up to the priest who will perform a ‘ritual’ to prove of her innocence. If she is pure, she would have no problem ‘taking the curse’. But however if she is unfaithful, she would be barren.
Verse 21: ‘may the LORD cause your people to curse and denounce you when he causes your thigh to waste away and your abdomen to swell. 22 May this water that brings a curse enter your body so that your abdomen swells and your thigh wastes away. “‘Then the woman is to say, " Amen. So be it."
The Lord reminds about committing adultery in the 10 commandments.
Exodus 20:14"You shall not commit adultery.
If any of you knows the issue of Paskistani woman. If only the community practiced this, many innocent women would not lose their life.
Numbers 6
Vow of separation – This involved separation ff consecration for a specific period of special devotion to God. This is not just a vow of discipline; it was an act of toal devotion to the Lord.
The Lord gave rules and precise guidelines as to the dos and don’ts.
The offerings of the Nazarite at the completion of the period of vow were extensive, expensive and expressive of the spirit of total commitment to the Lord during this time of special devotion.
Note:
The Priestly Blessing
22 The LORD said to Moses,
23 "Tell Aaron and his sons, 'This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them:
24 ' "The LORD bless you and keep you;
25 the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you;
26 the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace." '
27 "So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them."
May the Lord bless and keep all in Livingstones, FCBC and the entire body of Christ.
May His face shine upon all of us and be gracious to us. May the Lord’s face turn upon us and give us peace. Bless our people. Thank You Lord, in Jesus name I pray,
Amen.
The Purity of the Camp
The Lord speaks to Moses about the purity of his camp.
Verse 2: Command the Israelites to send away from the camp anyone who has an infectious skin disease or a discharge of any kind
I pondered: Is God unmerciful by sending the sick away? However I believe this person may have sinned against the Lord suffered the consequence of the disease and have to be sent away. Purity to the Lord could have been breached. This applies to both men and women.
Restitution for Wrongs
Notice it is a sin to malign others. It is UNFAITHFULNESS to God. Wow….
The Test for an Unfaithful Wife
If a man is unsure but suspects his wife of being unfaithful, he is to prepare a grain of guilt offering. Just in case he ‘malign’ her and cause him to be unfaithful to God. He is to bring the matter up to the priest who will perform a ‘ritual’ to prove of her innocence. If she is pure, she would have no problem ‘taking the curse’. But however if she is unfaithful, she would be barren.
Verse 21: ‘may the LORD cause your people to curse and denounce you when he causes your thigh to waste away and your abdomen to swell. 22 May this water that brings a curse enter your body so that your abdomen swells and your thigh wastes away. “‘Then the woman is to say, " Amen. So be it."
The Lord reminds about committing adultery in the 10 commandments.
Exodus 20:14"You shall not commit adultery.
If any of you knows the issue of Paskistani woman. If only the community practiced this, many innocent women would not lose their life.
Numbers 6
Vow of separation – This involved separation ff consecration for a specific period of special devotion to God. This is not just a vow of discipline; it was an act of toal devotion to the Lord.
The Lord gave rules and precise guidelines as to the dos and don’ts.
The offerings of the Nazarite at the completion of the period of vow were extensive, expensive and expressive of the spirit of total commitment to the Lord during this time of special devotion.
Note:
The Priestly Blessing
22 The LORD said to Moses,
23 "Tell Aaron and his sons, 'This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them:
24 ' "The LORD bless you and keep you;
25 the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you;
26 the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace." '
27 "So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them."
May the Lord bless and keep all in Livingstones, FCBC and the entire body of Christ.
May His face shine upon all of us and be gracious to us. May the Lord’s face turn upon us and give us peace. Bless our people. Thank You Lord, in Jesus name I pray,
Amen.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Numbers 3 - 4 (24th Feb)
Numbers 3
The 12 Tribes
1. Judah
2. Issachar
3. Zebulun
4. Reuben
5. Simeon
6. Gad
7. Ephraim
8. Manasseh
9. Benjamin
10. Dan
11. Asher
12. Naphtali
Notice that Ephraim and Manasseh were not Jacob sons. They were Jacob grandsons which is sons of Joseph. So 2 of Jacob sons, Levi and Joseph, were not one of the 12 tribes.
From the Levi came 3 sons that formed 3 clans. Gershon the Gershonite, Kohath the Kohathite, Merari the Merarite. God has set the Levites apart for the work in the tabernacle reporting to Aaron and his sons (v9).
Gershonite – take care of tabernacle and tent (v25).
Kohathite – take care of the sanctuary (v28, 31).
Merarite – take care of the frames of the tabernacle (v36).
The 12 Tribes
1. Judah
2. Issachar
3. Zebulun
4. Reuben
5. Simeon
6. Gad
7. Ephraim
8. Manasseh
9. Benjamin
10. Dan
11. Asher
12. Naphtali
Notice that Ephraim and Manasseh were not Jacob sons. They were Jacob grandsons which is sons of Joseph. So 2 of Jacob sons, Levi and Joseph, were not one of the 12 tribes.
From the Levi came 3 sons that formed 3 clans. Gershon the Gershonite, Kohath the Kohathite, Merari the Merarite. God has set the Levites apart for the work in the tabernacle reporting to Aaron and his sons (v9).
Gershonite – take care of tabernacle and tent (v25).
Kohathite – take care of the sanctuary (v28, 31).
Merarite – take care of the frames of the tabernacle (v36).
Numbers 4
When the tabernacle needed to move:-
Gershonite – in charge of carrying the curtains (v25).
Kohathite – in charge of carrying the things in the sanctuary (v15).
Merarite – in charge of carrying the frames of the tabernacle (v31).
Total from the 3 clans, there were 8580 people who work and serve in carrying everything (v47).
Wow!!! 8580 logistics members. When they were called to serve, they served. Hey, serve the Lord for it is an act of worship to the Lord. Love the Lord and serve Him only.
When the tabernacle needed to move:-
Gershonite – in charge of carrying the curtains (v25).
Kohathite – in charge of carrying the things in the sanctuary (v15).
Merarite – in charge of carrying the frames of the tabernacle (v31).
Total from the 3 clans, there were 8580 people who work and serve in carrying everything (v47).
Wow!!! 8580 logistics members. When they were called to serve, they served. Hey, serve the Lord for it is an act of worship to the Lord. Love the Lord and serve Him only.
Friday, February 23, 2007
Numbers 1 - 2 (23rd Feb)
Numbers 1
Written by Moses
The Israelites had camped near Mount Sinai for more than a year. They had received all the laws and regulations passed down to them recorded in the book of Leviticus. They had been transformed into a new nation and equipped for God’s purpose for them. Moses and Aaron were told to number all the men who were able to serve in the army. This book is named for this census, or numbering of the people.
Taking a census is long and tedious, but very crucial task. Those involved in the military had to be counted to know the military strength before entering the Promised Land.
**Whenever we are at a crossroad, important to take inventory of our resources, reflect, pray and move on with hope in the Lord.
Numbers 2
The nation of Israel was organized according to 12 tribes:
1) It was an effective way to manage and govern a large group of people,
2)Made dividing the Promised Land easier,
3) It was part of the culture and heritage,
4) made it easier to keep detailed genealogies
5) made travelling much more efficient.
As the people left Mount Sinai and traveled across the desert, they began to complain, grumble and disobey. Soon problems surfaced and Moses was not able to effectively manage the people. The books of Exodus, Leviticus and Numbers present a contrast between how much we can accomplish when we obey God and how little when we don’t
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Leviticus 26 - 27 (22nd Feb)
Leviticus 26
It is coming to the end of Leviticus and God made great promises. If we follow His commands, He will send rain and the ground will yield its crops and the trees of the field their fruit (v3, 4). You will eat all you want and live in the safety of the land (v5). 5 of us will chase a hundred of enemies away and hundred of us will chase away 10,000. God will grant us favour(v8). You will have favor, you will be fruitful and increase in numbers (v9). Full of promises from the Lord if we follow His commands.
Those that disobey will be punished (v14 - 39). But those who confess their sins, Gd will not reject you (v40 - 45). So obey the Lord and follow His commands and you will be blessed.
Proverbs 8:32 - Now then, my sons, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways.
Luke 11:28 - He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
Revelation 1:3 - Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.
Leviticus 27
The last chapter of Leviticus where everything can be set apart for the Lord. The word 'set apart' is also the same as 'holy'. It can be a person who is set apart for God when he or she comes to know the Lord and God set him or her apart to be holy. That's why we are called royal priesthood, holy nation and people belonging to God. but yet we still choose to sin. That's where we need to confess our sins before the Lord.
Those that disobey will be punished (v14 - 39). But those who confess their sins, Gd will not reject you (v40 - 45). So obey the Lord and follow His commands and you will be blessed.
Proverbs 8:32 - Now then, my sons, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways.
Luke 11:28 - He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
Revelation 1:3 - Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.
Leviticus 27
The last chapter of Leviticus where everything can be set apart for the Lord. The word 'set apart' is also the same as 'holy'. It can be a person who is set apart for God when he or she comes to know the Lord and God set him or her apart to be holy. That's why we are called royal priesthood, holy nation and people belonging to God. but yet we still choose to sin. That's where we need to confess our sins before the Lord.
Your house can be set apart for the Lord. Pray and invite the Lord into your home. Where the Lord is, it is holy. Whatever you have, you may set aside 10% for the Lord. It is a tithe. A worship unto the Lord.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Leviticus 24 - 25 (21st Feb)
Leviticus 24
Give me oil in my lamp, give me burning burning burning……. We need to keep our passionate fire burning. Our spiritual life must constantly be on fire. As written on v3b, 4 “This is to be a lasting ordinance for the generations to come. The lamps on the pure gold lampstand before the LORD must be tended continually.”
This chapter also mentioned about punishment towards those who cursed God and blasphemes against God’s name. This is really serious. So do not curse God or blasphemes against God. You will not be forgiven.
Give me oil in my lamp, give me burning burning burning……. We need to keep our passionate fire burning. Our spiritual life must constantly be on fire. As written on v3b, 4 “This is to be a lasting ordinance for the generations to come. The lamps on the pure gold lampstand before the LORD must be tended continually.”
This chapter also mentioned about punishment towards those who cursed God and blasphemes against God’s name. This is really serious. So do not curse God or blasphemes against God. You will not be forgiven.
Mark 3:29 - "But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; he is guilty of an eternal sin."
Luke 12:10 - "And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven."
Luke 12:10 - "And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven."
Leviticus 25
7th Day – Sabbath Day
7th Year – Sabbath Year
50 years – The year of Jubilee. It is to proclaim liberty.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Leviticus 22 - 23 (20th Feb)
Leviticus 22
God wanted the priests to serve Him and the people. The priests help people draw near to God and worship Him. But after Christ’s sacrifice for us, we are given the freedom and privilege to draw close to God directly. Animals with defects of any form were not acceptable as sacrifices to the Lord because they did not represent God’s holy nature. When we give the best of ourselves to the Lord, we show the true meaning of worship and testify to God’s supreme worth.
Leviticus 23
God wanted the priests to serve Him and the people. The priests help people draw near to God and worship Him. But after Christ’s sacrifice for us, we are given the freedom and privilege to draw close to God directly. Animals with defects of any form were not acceptable as sacrifices to the Lord because they did not represent God’s holy nature. When we give the best of ourselves to the Lord, we show the true meaning of worship and testify to God’s supreme worth.
Leviticus 23
The purpose for the appointed feasts of the Lord is that God wanted the people to set aside special days for the people to come together to 1) rest 2) receive refreshment 3) remembering with thanksgiving all He had done for them. The feast of the unleavened bread reminded the people of Israel their escape from Egypt.
The consumption of unleavened bread shows:
1) The bread was unique – rep. Israel’s uniqueness as a nation.
2) Yeast was a symbol of sin – the bread rep. the people’s moral purity.
3) The bread reminded the people to obey quickly.
The feast of first-fruits – shows that people can only eat from their harvest after they have offered to God.
The feast of weeks represents a festival praising God for a bountiful harvest.
The feast of tabernacle, also known as the feast of in gathering was a special celebration involving the whole family. It teaches the family about God’s nature and what he had done for them and was a time of renewed commitment.
1) The bread was unique – rep. Israel’s uniqueness as a nation.
2) Yeast was a symbol of sin – the bread rep. the people’s moral purity.
3) The bread reminded the people to obey quickly.
The feast of first-fruits – shows that people can only eat from their harvest after they have offered to God.
The feast of weeks represents a festival praising God for a bountiful harvest.
The feast of tabernacle, also known as the feast of in gathering was a special celebration involving the whole family. It teaches the family about God’s nature and what he had done for them and was a time of renewed commitment.
Monday, February 19, 2007
Leviticus 19 - 21 (19th Feb)
Leviticus 19
Be holy because God is holy (v2). You can also find this verse in Lev 11:44, 45; Lev 20:7; and 1 Pet 1:16. It is a command. He commands us to be holy because He is a holy God. Right from the start of this chapter God has set His standard. Apart from the 10 commandments, in this chapter, God has given to Moses more commands to follow. Some of the commands were the same as the 10 commandments given earlier. When I read v5-8, I felt a new revelation came. It talks about fellowship offering and one of fellowship offering is thanksgiving (Lev 7:11-13). The offering is to be eaten on the day you sacrifice or on the next day. It is like telling me to give thanks everyday for the day today and yesterday. Not something that happened long ago. There are always things today or yesterday you can give thanks for. Start giving him thanks for today.
Love you neighbor as yourself (v18). Isn’t this one of the greatest commandments? It is also found in the New Testament: Matt 19:19; Mat 22:39; Mark 12:31, 33; Luke 10:27; Rom 13:9; Gal 5:14; and James 2:8. But these are some verses I want you to read and observe, especially read the bold highlighted words.
Mark 12:31 - The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."
Be holy because God is holy (v2). You can also find this verse in Lev 11:44, 45; Lev 20:7; and 1 Pet 1:16. It is a command. He commands us to be holy because He is a holy God. Right from the start of this chapter God has set His standard. Apart from the 10 commandments, in this chapter, God has given to Moses more commands to follow. Some of the commands were the same as the 10 commandments given earlier. When I read v5-8, I felt a new revelation came. It talks about fellowship offering and one of fellowship offering is thanksgiving (Lev 7:11-13). The offering is to be eaten on the day you sacrifice or on the next day. It is like telling me to give thanks everyday for the day today and yesterday. Not something that happened long ago. There are always things today or yesterday you can give thanks for. Start giving him thanks for today.
Love you neighbor as yourself (v18). Isn’t this one of the greatest commandments? It is also found in the New Testament: Matt 19:19; Mat 22:39; Mark 12:31, 33; Luke 10:27; Rom 13:9; Gal 5:14; and James 2:8. But these are some verses I want you to read and observe, especially read the bold highlighted words.
Mark 12:31 - The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."
Mark 12:33 - "To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices."
Galatians 5:14 - The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."
James 2:8 – If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing right.
So remember to love your neighbor.
Also to all young people, please also take note of these few commands I surfaced in this chapter,
v14 " 'Do not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block in front of the blind, but fear your God. I am the LORD. – Let’s always be welcoming to the silent ministry in our service.
v14 " 'Do not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block in front of the blind, but fear your God. I am the LORD. – Let’s always be welcoming to the silent ministry in our service.
v26 " 'Do not eat any meat with the blood still in it. – medium instead of medium rare.
v28 " 'Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD. – Just read an article on newspaper not too long ago that many young people like to slash themselves on their hands or wrist. Please do not do it. Also do not put tattoo. What you think is fashionable now, may not be so when you grow older. But more important is that God do not permit us to do so.
v30 " 'Observe my Sabbaths and have reverence for my sanctuary. I am the LORD. – Hey people, have reverence each time you enter the sanctuary of God. Many of us came in to service still bringing food and drinks like watching a movie or some entertainment. Respect God and let our conversation cease. Come in reverence and expectation before the Lord.
v32 " 'Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the LORD. – Hey young people, respect the elderly or those that are older than you. Somehow the saying is true, “They eaten salt more then we eaten rice.” We will always learn from them.
Leviticus 20
This chapter shared about the punishment of the sins mentioned in chapter 18.
Many debated on the area of homosexuality. You can read v13 and Lev 18:22.
V22 – 24 Tell us to keep God’s command so that we will not be vomitted out of the land or rather in our context today means, follow His command and you will not be kept out of the blessing (inheritance).
V22 – 24 Tell us to keep God’s command so that we will not be vomitted out of the land or rather in our context today means, follow His command and you will not be kept out of the blessing (inheritance).
Leviticus 21
In summary, the priest must be holy (v8). Leaders, be holy, for this is the Lord’s command for us all.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Leviticus 16 - 18 (18th Feb) - Ivy
I am always amazed how we can come before the Lord, as simple as we are and not be ‘zapped to death’. Therefore it’s always good to come in thanksgiving towards God every time we approach Him.
Chapter 16 is a very detail instruction to Moses on how to enter into the sanctuary and prepare for Atonement.
Verse 6 says ‘Aaron is to offer the bull for his own sin offering to make atonement for himself and his household.’ And verse 15 says : "He shall then slaughter the goat for the sin offering for the people’.
Notice that that Lord told Aaron to make atonement for his own sins and the household before atoning for the people. This reminds me that we have to ask God for forgiveness for sins of ourselves and our family before we can intercede or stand in the gap for others.
Verse 34 "This is to be a lasting ordinance for you: Atonement is to be made once a year for all the sins of the Israelites." This is contrasts Jesus’ ‘once and for all atonement of our sins’.
Chapter 17
Sometimes called “Holiness Code”, this chapter deal with regulations for holy living and holy practice in various areas.
Verse 11: ‘For the life of a creature is in the blood…’ Blood shed in sacrifices was sacred. It epitomized the life of sacrificial victim. Since life was sacred, blood (a symbol of life) had to be treated with respect. Eating or drinking blood was therefore strictly forbidden.
Practically every sacrifice included the sprinkling and smearing of blood on the altar or within the tabernacle, thus teaching that atonement involves the substitution of life for life. The blood of the OT sacrifice pointed forward to the blood of the Lamb of God, who obtained for his people “eternal redemption” (Heb9:12). “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” – Heb 9:22
Conclusion: Dracula are detestable in God’s eyes? Okay, crap. =P
Chapter 18
In this chapter, God gave instructions to His people concerning interpersonal relations and morality reflecting God’s holiness. This also tells how sexually immoral people were in those times. Israel was thereby prepared for a life different from the Canaanites, whose lifestyle was deplorably immoral. This chapter also marks the boundaries for marriage and sexual relations.
Basically verse 6 sums it all. 'No one is to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the LORD.’ Not only God detest sexual relations with close relatives but also homosexual relationships.
Verse 19 concludes: 29 'Everyone who does any of these detestable things—such persons must be cut off from their people. 30 Keep my requirements and do not follow any of the detestable customs that were practiced before you came and do not defile yourselves with them. I am the LORD your God.' Pretty clear and strict hor?
I believe God is teaching us to honour our family and loved ones and also ultimately to Honour Him. May we honour the Lord, our God in our relationships with our love ones.
Chapter 16 is a very detail instruction to Moses on how to enter into the sanctuary and prepare for Atonement.
Verse 6 says ‘Aaron is to offer the bull for his own sin offering to make atonement for himself and his household.’ And verse 15 says : "He shall then slaughter the goat for the sin offering for the people’.
Notice that that Lord told Aaron to make atonement for his own sins and the household before atoning for the people. This reminds me that we have to ask God for forgiveness for sins of ourselves and our family before we can intercede or stand in the gap for others.
Verse 34 "This is to be a lasting ordinance for you: Atonement is to be made once a year for all the sins of the Israelites." This is contrasts Jesus’ ‘once and for all atonement of our sins’.
Chapter 17
Sometimes called “Holiness Code”, this chapter deal with regulations for holy living and holy practice in various areas.
Verse 11: ‘For the life of a creature is in the blood…’ Blood shed in sacrifices was sacred. It epitomized the life of sacrificial victim. Since life was sacred, blood (a symbol of life) had to be treated with respect. Eating or drinking blood was therefore strictly forbidden.
Practically every sacrifice included the sprinkling and smearing of blood on the altar or within the tabernacle, thus teaching that atonement involves the substitution of life for life. The blood of the OT sacrifice pointed forward to the blood of the Lamb of God, who obtained for his people “eternal redemption” (Heb9:12). “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” – Heb 9:22
Conclusion: Dracula are detestable in God’s eyes? Okay, crap. =P
Chapter 18
In this chapter, God gave instructions to His people concerning interpersonal relations and morality reflecting God’s holiness. This also tells how sexually immoral people were in those times. Israel was thereby prepared for a life different from the Canaanites, whose lifestyle was deplorably immoral. This chapter also marks the boundaries for marriage and sexual relations.
Basically verse 6 sums it all. 'No one is to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the LORD.’ Not only God detest sexual relations with close relatives but also homosexual relationships.
Verse 19 concludes: 29 'Everyone who does any of these detestable things—such persons must be cut off from their people. 30 Keep my requirements and do not follow any of the detestable customs that were practiced before you came and do not defile yourselves with them. I am the LORD your God.' Pretty clear and strict hor?
I believe God is teaching us to honour our family and loved ones and also ultimately to Honour Him. May we honour the Lord, our God in our relationships with our love ones.
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Leviticus 14 - 15 (17th Feb) - Alvin
Isn't the Book of Leviticus amazing?? Or more so our God? Isn't He really an awesome God? We must remember that this book of the Law was given in the time of Moses, a time when there is no knowledge whatsoever about bacteria, or viruses. Yet, though man has no knowledge of such things, they actually exist. God in His wisdom uses these ceremonial laws not only to teach the Israelites about purity and "cleanness", but also to protect them from viral and bacterial infection, that could come about through skin diseases, bodily discharges, mildew etc. Isn't our God amazing?
But I also learnt something else through these 2 chapters. Notice, after the separation from the people of God, an unclean person must first cleanse him or herself, before returning to the people. And the person must offer a sin offering, a burnt offering and a grain offering. When the priest makes the atonement for the people, the priest will place the blood of the sacrifice on the person. Interestingly, the priest will also put the oil of the offering on the same parts of the person aswell.
This is a stark reminder of a few things, namely:
1) Sicknesses and uncleanness (be it discharges; mildew etc) are a result of sin in the eyes of God. I believe before the fall of man, there is no such thing as decomposition; hence, there will be no such need for viruses or bacteria. Do not forget, man was created to live with God eternally. Corruption and decay came after the fall. The constant need for the people of God to offer asin and burnt offering for uncleanness, reminds the people of God of our fallen nature and devastation of sin.
2) The oil for healing was placed on the same areas as the blood that was placed on the person making the offering. It's a reminder that healing is part of the ministry of the priest, but more importantly, healing is part of the entire atonement. And in our times, we must remember that Christ exchanged for us on the Cross more than the forgiveness of sins and redemption, but also our healing. It is part of the ministry of the Cross. Healing is not just another gift; it is an integral part of the work of atonement and cleansing. Sickness and infirmities are viewed as a work of sin, therefore through the Cross ofthe Lord, we received BOTH forgiveness and healing. We must claim our right to healing!!
3) Lev 15:31 "You must keep the Israelites separate from things that make them unclean, so they will not die in their uncleanness for defiling my dwelling place, which is among them." for all of us. All that God is teaching about cleanliness is much more about personal hygiene. It is a reminder of the need to keep ourselves pure from the things that defile us. And they are all around us. But God's grace is sufficient when we are weak. Be alert and keep ourselves pure and holy, for the Lord God we serve is a Holy God.
4) Let's appreciate the work of the Cross of Jesus.
In Hebrews 10:1-25 we read: "The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming-not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. If it could, would they not have stopped being offered? For the worshipers would have been cleansed once for all, and would no longer have felt guilty for their sins. But those sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins, because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.
Therefore, when Christ came into the world, he said: "Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me; with burnt offerings and sin offerings you were not pleased. Then I said, 'Here I am-it is written about me in the scroll- I have come to do your will, O God.' "First he said, "Sacrifices and offerings, burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not desire, nor were you pleased with them" (although the law required them to be made). Then he said, "Here I am, I have come to do your will." He sets aside the first to establish the second. And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
Day after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God. Since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.
The Holy Spirit also testifies to us about this. First he says: "This is the covenant I will make with them after thattime, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds." Then he adds: "Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more." And where these have been forgiven, there is no longer any sacrifice for sin.
Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near toGod with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
Let us draw near to God through holiness.
But I also learnt something else through these 2 chapters. Notice, after the separation from the people of God, an unclean person must first cleanse him or herself, before returning to the people. And the person must offer a sin offering, a burnt offering and a grain offering. When the priest makes the atonement for the people, the priest will place the blood of the sacrifice on the person. Interestingly, the priest will also put the oil of the offering on the same parts of the person aswell.
This is a stark reminder of a few things, namely:
1) Sicknesses and uncleanness (be it discharges; mildew etc) are a result of sin in the eyes of God. I believe before the fall of man, there is no such thing as decomposition; hence, there will be no such need for viruses or bacteria. Do not forget, man was created to live with God eternally. Corruption and decay came after the fall. The constant need for the people of God to offer asin and burnt offering for uncleanness, reminds the people of God of our fallen nature and devastation of sin.
2) The oil for healing was placed on the same areas as the blood that was placed on the person making the offering. It's a reminder that healing is part of the ministry of the priest, but more importantly, healing is part of the entire atonement. And in our times, we must remember that Christ exchanged for us on the Cross more than the forgiveness of sins and redemption, but also our healing. It is part of the ministry of the Cross. Healing is not just another gift; it is an integral part of the work of atonement and cleansing. Sickness and infirmities are viewed as a work of sin, therefore through the Cross ofthe Lord, we received BOTH forgiveness and healing. We must claim our right to healing!!
3) Lev 15:31 "You must keep the Israelites separate from things that make them unclean, so they will not die in their uncleanness for defiling my dwelling place, which is among them." for all of us. All that God is teaching about cleanliness is much more about personal hygiene. It is a reminder of the need to keep ourselves pure from the things that defile us. And they are all around us. But God's grace is sufficient when we are weak. Be alert and keep ourselves pure and holy, for the Lord God we serve is a Holy God.
4) Let's appreciate the work of the Cross of Jesus.
In Hebrews 10:1-25 we read: "The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming-not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. If it could, would they not have stopped being offered? For the worshipers would have been cleansed once for all, and would no longer have felt guilty for their sins. But those sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins, because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.
Therefore, when Christ came into the world, he said: "Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me; with burnt offerings and sin offerings you were not pleased. Then I said, 'Here I am-it is written about me in the scroll- I have come to do your will, O God.' "First he said, "Sacrifices and offerings, burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not desire, nor were you pleased with them" (although the law required them to be made). Then he said, "Here I am, I have come to do your will." He sets aside the first to establish the second. And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
Day after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God. Since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.
The Holy Spirit also testifies to us about this. First he says: "This is the covenant I will make with them after thattime, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds." Then he adds: "Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more." And where these have been forgiven, there is no longer any sacrifice for sin.
Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near toGod with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
Let us draw near to God through holiness.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Leviticus 11 - 13 (16th February) - Isaiah
In chapter 11, we learn about the rules of God in telling us what to eat & not to eat. Whether creatures that fly in the sky, swim in the sea or walk on land, the Lord made it clear to us to watch what we eat. But in fact, what the Lord really wants is for us to consecrate ourselves & to be pure & holy before Him because He is a Holy God.
In chapter 12, it's sharing about women being purified by the Lord after giving birth. She is not allowed to touch anything that is sacred or go into the sanctuary of God until the purification period is over.
In chapter 13, i had to read a few portions twice or more times because i was trying to understand what exactly is the Lord teaching me about. As much as it is saying about the different kind of diseases or problems that man or woman has, only the priest has the permission to certifiy whether that person is clean or unclean.
I feel that through these 3 chapters itself, it shows us how holy & pure our God is. He is someone who desires us to be set apart pure & holy before Him. And if we're not, He will deal with us in different ways where He will isolate us & cleanse us.
In today's context for us, the challenge is whether are we making a choice daily to live a life that is pleasing before Him. There are times when we're like the man or woman who has 'skin disease' & in the end feel isolated from the rest. But thanks be to God who will forgive & cleanse us whatever suituation our lives are as long we confess our sins & struggles to Him!
So let us not be 99.9% but 100% pure & holy children of God!
In chapter 12, it's sharing about women being purified by the Lord after giving birth. She is not allowed to touch anything that is sacred or go into the sanctuary of God until the purification period is over.
In chapter 13, i had to read a few portions twice or more times because i was trying to understand what exactly is the Lord teaching me about. As much as it is saying about the different kind of diseases or problems that man or woman has, only the priest has the permission to certifiy whether that person is clean or unclean.
I feel that through these 3 chapters itself, it shows us how holy & pure our God is. He is someone who desires us to be set apart pure & holy before Him. And if we're not, He will deal with us in different ways where He will isolate us & cleanse us.
In today's context for us, the challenge is whether are we making a choice daily to live a life that is pleasing before Him. There are times when we're like the man or woman who has 'skin disease' & in the end feel isolated from the rest. But thanks be to God who will forgive & cleanse us whatever suituation our lives are as long we confess our sins & struggles to Him!
So let us not be 99.9% but 100% pure & holy children of God!
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Leviticus 8 - 10 (15th Feb) - Joshua
The one important lesson I'll like to share today is, - Worship God, God's way.
Worship though it's personal, it is God-centered & dedicated (lev 8)
Aaron being chosen by God might have felt proud, favored or priviledged. It is similar when we feel proud or exclusive when God calls each of us to be serving with some form of prominence or platform. We must remember, that though God engages us, worship to Him is a dedication of our lives to Him. Not for ourselves.
By this time, after the golden calf, the people of Israel must be still unclear about worship and Holiness. Their worship in the past was self originated and self honoring (golden calf). The first lessons of worship is to know that though it's personally engaging, its because God wants us near. He longs for us.The scene of moses dressing aaron and his sons signifies the redemptive purpose of God, though aaron sinned greatly in the past, God has chosen Him. God loves Him. God still clothe men (like He did for adam. And at that point of time He knows, Jesus is going the garment of righteousness for all generations). In the sight of all Israel, it is highly liberating. If I was a common Israelite, I would have thought "man, this aaron screwed it up big time for us and yet God chose Him as priest.. How great is God's love!" Redemptive purpose as so, but it doesn't mean it's about us. Centered on us.
The tabernacle and special garments (Exo 39) done in an extremely intricate way by a God chosen and gifted people highlights the fact that God is teaching the people of Israel what holiness is. It is different. It is uncommon. It is set apart. Reserved. Exclusive. Most importantly, His initiative. Shouldn't He teach us, lead us in how to approach Him? God revealed His anger when His own priest disobeyed and put unauthorized fire.
The death of Nadab and Abihu is a sad fact still evident in modern day christianity. - Christians who worship God their own way. And we die spiritually.
In our modern day "feel good" culture, the devil deceives the world by telling us "God's love is for us means we can do our own thing." WRONG! God's love ultimately teaches us to hate evil, to differentiate His voice and the devil's, becoming that distinctive light that breaks out from a world of darkness. That's who we are.
We are handpicked by God to come close to Him. Should we approach Him with reverance?
Let's not be conceited to love God our own way. Worship though it's personal. It is God's centered and dedicated.
Worship God His way today.
Worship though it's personal, it is God-centered & dedicated (lev 8)
Aaron being chosen by God might have felt proud, favored or priviledged. It is similar when we feel proud or exclusive when God calls each of us to be serving with some form of prominence or platform. We must remember, that though God engages us, worship to Him is a dedication of our lives to Him. Not for ourselves.
By this time, after the golden calf, the people of Israel must be still unclear about worship and Holiness. Their worship in the past was self originated and self honoring (golden calf). The first lessons of worship is to know that though it's personally engaging, its because God wants us near. He longs for us.The scene of moses dressing aaron and his sons signifies the redemptive purpose of God, though aaron sinned greatly in the past, God has chosen Him. God loves Him. God still clothe men (like He did for adam. And at that point of time He knows, Jesus is going the garment of righteousness for all generations). In the sight of all Israel, it is highly liberating. If I was a common Israelite, I would have thought "man, this aaron screwed it up big time for us and yet God chose Him as priest.. How great is God's love!" Redemptive purpose as so, but it doesn't mean it's about us. Centered on us.
The tabernacle and special garments (Exo 39) done in an extremely intricate way by a God chosen and gifted people highlights the fact that God is teaching the people of Israel what holiness is. It is different. It is uncommon. It is set apart. Reserved. Exclusive. Most importantly, His initiative. Shouldn't He teach us, lead us in how to approach Him? God revealed His anger when His own priest disobeyed and put unauthorized fire.
The death of Nadab and Abihu is a sad fact still evident in modern day christianity. - Christians who worship God their own way. And we die spiritually.
In our modern day "feel good" culture, the devil deceives the world by telling us "God's love is for us means we can do our own thing." WRONG! God's love ultimately teaches us to hate evil, to differentiate His voice and the devil's, becoming that distinctive light that breaks out from a world of darkness. That's who we are.
We are handpicked by God to come close to Him. Should we approach Him with reverance?
Let's not be conceited to love God our own way. Worship though it's personal. It is God's centered and dedicated.
Worship God His way today.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Leviticus 5 - 7 (14th Feb)
Happy Valentine’s Day. Many couples probably are having some romantic nights out, sharing their love and showing their love for one another. Well, maybe you may want to set aside time to pour your love to Jesus instead on this special day. Tell Him and show Him how much you love Him by spending time with Him and seeking Him. Give Him your all your heart and soul. This is the best offering to Him. The LOVE offering from our hearts.
Leviticus 5 – 7
Yesterday, Weiling shared the 5 kinds of offerings from chapter 1 right up to chapter 5. In Chapter 6 & 7, The Lord spoke to Moses the regulations of the different kinds of offering.
6:9 – Regulations of Burnt Offering
6:14 – Regulations of the Grain Offering
6:25 – Regulations of the Sin Offering
7:1 – Regulations of the Guilt Offering
7:11 – Regulations of the Fellowship Offering
There were also other kinds of fellowship offering mentioned like thank offering (v12), freewill offering (v16) & wave offering (v30). Also ordination offering that mentioned on the summary in v37.
God bless and may your LOVE offering be acceptable to God.
Leviticus 5 – 7
Yesterday, Weiling shared the 5 kinds of offerings from chapter 1 right up to chapter 5. In Chapter 6 & 7, The Lord spoke to Moses the regulations of the different kinds of offering.
6:9 – Regulations of Burnt Offering
6:14 – Regulations of the Grain Offering
6:25 – Regulations of the Sin Offering
7:1 – Regulations of the Guilt Offering
7:11 – Regulations of the Fellowship Offering
There were also other kinds of fellowship offering mentioned like thank offering (v12), freewill offering (v16) & wave offering (v30). Also ordination offering that mentioned on the summary in v37.
God bless and may your LOVE offering be acceptable to God.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Leviticus 1 - 4 (13th Feb) - Weiling
Leviticus receives its name from the Greek word Septuagint and means “relating to the Levites”. Although Leviticus does not only deal with the special duties of the Levites, it is so named because it is concerned mainly with the service of worship at the tabernacle. Exodus had given the directions for the building of the tabernacle. Leviticus gives the laws and regulations for worship at the tabernacle, along with the instructions on ceremonial cleanness, moral laws, holy days, the sabbath year, and the Year of the Jubilee.
Theme: The key thought of Leviticus is holiness – that of God and of man. The instructions or laws in the book were given to help the Israelites worship and live as God’s holy people.
Five categories of offerings were mentioned in the book. And since I have a nice page in my Zondervan reference bible that explains the difference, I shall share them with you.
1. Burnt Offering [Lev 1]
- Elements: Bull, ram or male bird (dove or young pigeon for the poor); wholly consumed; no defect
- Purpose: Voluntary act of worship; atonement for unintentional sin in general; expression of devotion, commitment and complete surrender to God.
2. Grain Offering [Lev 2]
- Elements: Grain, fine flour, olive oil, incense, baked bread (cakes or wafers), salt; no yeast or honey; accompanied burnt offering and fellowship offering
- Purpose: Voluntary act of worship; recognition of God’s goodness and provisions; devotion to God.
3. Fellowship Offering [Lev 3]
- Elements: Any animal without defect from herd or flock; variety of breads
- Purpose: Voluntary act of worship; thanksgiving and fellowship
4. Sin Offering [Lev 4:1-5;13]
- Elements:
i) Young bull: for high priest and congregation
ii) Male goat: for leader
iii) Female goat or lamb: for common person
iv) Dove or pigeon: for the poor
v) Tenth of an ephah of fine flour: for the very poor
- Purpose: Mandatory atonement for specific unintentional sin; confession of sin; forgiveness of sin; cleansing from defilement
5. Guilt Offering [Lev 5: 14-6:7]
- Elements: Ram or lamb
- Purpose: Mandatory atonement for unintentional sin requiring restitution; cleansing from defilement; making restitution; pay 20% fine
When more than one kind of offering was offered, the procedure was usually as follows: sin/ guilt offering -> burnt offering -> fellowship offering and grain offering
The spiritual significance is that first, sin has to be dealt with (sin or guilt offering), second, the worshipper committed himself completely to God (grain or burnt offering) and then, fellowship or communion is established between the Lord, the priest and the worshipper (fellowship offering).
What can be noticed from the four chapters is that offerings cost us. Often the requirement is for male animals without defects. (Often, male animals are fewer in numbers and are more precious because they are used for breeding.) It is the giving of YOUR best. Even for the poor, they give something that costs them too though God does not impose on them what they cannot afford. It is the same with the offering of the first fruits (Lev 2: 12), we give of what is precious not the leftover. When we sacrifice unto the Lord, we should be like King David who said “I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” in 2 Samuel 24: 24.
Theme: The key thought of Leviticus is holiness – that of God and of man. The instructions or laws in the book were given to help the Israelites worship and live as God’s holy people.
Five categories of offerings were mentioned in the book. And since I have a nice page in my Zondervan reference bible that explains the difference, I shall share them with you.
1. Burnt Offering [Lev 1]
- Elements: Bull, ram or male bird (dove or young pigeon for the poor); wholly consumed; no defect
- Purpose: Voluntary act of worship; atonement for unintentional sin in general; expression of devotion, commitment and complete surrender to God.
2. Grain Offering [Lev 2]
- Elements: Grain, fine flour, olive oil, incense, baked bread (cakes or wafers), salt; no yeast or honey; accompanied burnt offering and fellowship offering
- Purpose: Voluntary act of worship; recognition of God’s goodness and provisions; devotion to God.
3. Fellowship Offering [Lev 3]
- Elements: Any animal without defect from herd or flock; variety of breads
- Purpose: Voluntary act of worship; thanksgiving and fellowship
4. Sin Offering [Lev 4:1-5;13]
- Elements:
i) Young bull: for high priest and congregation
ii) Male goat: for leader
iii) Female goat or lamb: for common person
iv) Dove or pigeon: for the poor
v) Tenth of an ephah of fine flour: for the very poor
- Purpose: Mandatory atonement for specific unintentional sin; confession of sin; forgiveness of sin; cleansing from defilement
5. Guilt Offering [Lev 5: 14-6:7]
- Elements: Ram or lamb
- Purpose: Mandatory atonement for unintentional sin requiring restitution; cleansing from defilement; making restitution; pay 20% fine
When more than one kind of offering was offered, the procedure was usually as follows: sin/ guilt offering -> burnt offering -> fellowship offering and grain offering
The spiritual significance is that first, sin has to be dealt with (sin or guilt offering), second, the worshipper committed himself completely to God (grain or burnt offering) and then, fellowship or communion is established between the Lord, the priest and the worshipper (fellowship offering).
What can be noticed from the four chapters is that offerings cost us. Often the requirement is for male animals without defects. (Often, male animals are fewer in numbers and are more precious because they are used for breeding.) It is the giving of YOUR best. Even for the poor, they give something that costs them too though God does not impose on them what they cannot afford. It is the same with the offering of the first fruits (Lev 2: 12), we give of what is precious not the leftover. When we sacrifice unto the Lord, we should be like King David who said “I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” in 2 Samuel 24: 24.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Exodus 39 & 40 (12th Feb)
Exodus 39
The making of the Priestly Garment according to the instructions God has given to Moses. In v8, they fashioned a very nice and beautiful breast piece with 12 precious stones in it. Each of these stones represents the tribe name. Total of 12 tribes.
I always wanted to have these 12 stones. The Livingstones.
The making of the Priestly Garment according to the instructions God has given to Moses. In v8, they fashioned a very nice and beautiful breast piece with 12 precious stones in it. Each of these stones represents the tribe name. Total of 12 tribes.
I always wanted to have these 12 stones. The Livingstones.
Ruby, Topaz, Emerald
Turquoise, Sapphire, Diamond
Jacinth, Agate, Amethyst
Beryl, Onyx, Jasper
After everything was done, there was a stand by area. Moses inspected all the works that were done and everything were done according to the Lord’s command.
Exodus 40
The final set up of the tabernacle and when everything was done, the glory of God filled the tabernacle. The glory of the Lord was revealed like cloud that covers the tabernacle. May the glory of the Lord dwells in our church and our tribe.
Turquoise, Sapphire, Diamond
Jacinth, Agate, Amethyst
Beryl, Onyx, Jasper
After everything was done, there was a stand by area. Moses inspected all the works that were done and everything were done according to the Lord’s command.
Exodus 40
The final set up of the tabernacle and when everything was done, the glory of God filled the tabernacle. The glory of the Lord was revealed like cloud that covers the tabernacle. May the glory of the Lord dwells in our church and our tribe.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Exodus 36 - 38 (11th Feb)
Exodus 36
Again Bezalel and Oholiab were mentioned. In chapter 31, it was an instruction from the Lord to Moses about both of their roles. And so now in this chapter, it talks about both of them doing their roles in building the Tabernacle.
Exodus 37 & 38
From Chapter 25 to 30 was God instruction to Moses how to build the tabernacle. In these 2 chapters, it mentioned how the craftsmen made the tabernacle. Read and you will find a lot of times it repeated the word “They made”. They were building the tabernacle according to the instruction given from god to Moses from Chapter 25 to 30. But from Chapter 38:21 onwards, there is a slight turn. It talks about the amount of material used to build the whole temple. Look at it. It is really an expensive sanctuary, the Tent of Meeting and it sure took a lot of very gifted and skillful people to build them.
Thank God that we have the freedom to worship the Lord anywhere that Jesus has torn the curtain and we have the access into the Holy Place to worship Him. Praise the Lord.
Again Bezalel and Oholiab were mentioned. In chapter 31, it was an instruction from the Lord to Moses about both of their roles. And so now in this chapter, it talks about both of them doing their roles in building the Tabernacle.
Exodus 37 & 38
From Chapter 25 to 30 was God instruction to Moses how to build the tabernacle. In these 2 chapters, it mentioned how the craftsmen made the tabernacle. Read and you will find a lot of times it repeated the word “They made”. They were building the tabernacle according to the instruction given from god to Moses from Chapter 25 to 30. But from Chapter 38:21 onwards, there is a slight turn. It talks about the amount of material used to build the whole temple. Look at it. It is really an expensive sanctuary, the Tent of Meeting and it sure took a lot of very gifted and skillful people to build them.
Thank God that we have the freedom to worship the Lord anywhere that Jesus has torn the curtain and we have the access into the Holy Place to worship Him. Praise the Lord.
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Exodus 33 - 35 (10th Feb)
Exodus 33
God and Moses talked face to face in the Tent of Meeting like friends. Isn’t that awesome? How I wish I can do that with God…Why did Moses receive such privileges from God? Not due to his talents, gifts or character…but simply because God chose Moses in the first place and Moses obeyed, relied and followed what God asked him to do. Though we can’t talk with God face to face, we can still talk with God and Jesus will always be a friend to us. We just ended today’s Friendship event at MagicBox. God is really reminding us that He is our friend yesterday and today and forever. Praise the Lord!
God and Moses talked face to face in the Tent of Meeting like friends. Isn’t that awesome? How I wish I can do that with God…Why did Moses receive such privileges from God? Not due to his talents, gifts or character…but simply because God chose Moses in the first place and Moses obeyed, relied and followed what God asked him to do. Though we can’t talk with God face to face, we can still talk with God and Jesus will always be a friend to us. We just ended today’s Friendship event at MagicBox. God is really reminding us that He is our friend yesterday and today and forever. Praise the Lord!
Moses told God not to send them up to where God wanted them to go if the Lord God won’t be there. I fully agree. I will never want to do something or go somewhere if God will not be there with me. I want His guidance, His blessings and His presence to be with me at all times. I am sure all of you will fully agree with me. But pause again, sometimes, we do things without really praying and seeking His approval…hence, stop and invite God to be with you at all times and in doing all things.
Exodus 34
God did not give Moses the vision of His power and majesty, rather His love. God’s glory is revealed in His mercy, grace compassion, faithfulness, forgiveness and justice.
God mentioned-Do not worship any other god, for the Lord whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God. God wants us to give Him wholeheartedly-our heart, mind, time, money…
Moses’ face was radiant after he spent time with God. Although we are not like Moses, we still need to spend time with God - reading and mediating upon His words, praying and simply taking delight to be with Him all the time. We can then radiate the beauty of God in us. This is the beauty that will last. Have you seen someone who is physically not that pretty or handsome, but when you spend time with this person, you find this person so beautiful as the beauty of God is reflected through him/her. I definitely want this type of beauty.
Exodus 35
Tabernacle construction- the people were called to construct the tabernacle based on God’s specific instructions. God gives each of us a gift, a talent. We are to use them to His glory. Thank God for whatever gift or talent you have and for some of us who are not sure what are our gifting, ask God to reveal to you and use it for His glory.
Friday, February 09, 2007
Exodus 30 - 32 (9th Feb)
Exodus 30
The continuation of the building of Tabernacle. The Altar of Incense was where the incense burned regularly before the Lord for the rest of the generations (v8). The Basin was where the priests washed their hands and feet with the water from it (v19).
Exodus 31
God had chosen Bezalel from the tribe of Judah to fill him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts (v3). He was such a privileged man. God had chosen him (v2). Then God appointed Oholiab from the tribe of Dan to help Bezalel (v6).
The continuation of the building of Tabernacle. The Altar of Incense was where the incense burned regularly before the Lord for the rest of the generations (v8). The Basin was where the priests washed their hands and feet with the water from it (v19).
Exodus 31
God had chosen Bezalel from the tribe of Judah to fill him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts (v3). He was such a privileged man. God had chosen him (v2). Then God appointed Oholiab from the tribe of Dan to help Bezalel (v6).
Hi people, God has chosen each of you and given each and everyone of you different gifts and talents to accomplish the things of God. But God appoints each of you with different role just like God appointed Oholiab to help Bezalel. Whether your appointment is big or small, remember, it is for God we served.
Exodus 32
The Israelites became very impatient. They did not know what happened to Moses up at the mountain. So they challenged Aaron to make them a god that will go before them. So Aaron lead the people to give their gold and he it into an idol in the shape of a calf. Aaron broke the commandment of God but please understand that Moses hasn’t come down with the commandments during that time. So Aaron declared that the next day they will celebrate the Festival of the Lord. The word “LORD” that mentioned here is the same Jehovah God (YAHWEH). So to Aaron, he thought it was alright and still worshipped the Lord. But God was angry and called them the stiff-necked people (v9). Then Moses sought favor from the Lord for mercy.
Moses came down with 2 tablets of God’s writing but he threw them out of his hands and broke into pieces because he was angry. Killer Litter!!! Then see what Moses did in v20. It is gross. I will not drink that.
Exodus 32
The Israelites became very impatient. They did not know what happened to Moses up at the mountain. So they challenged Aaron to make them a god that will go before them. So Aaron lead the people to give their gold and he it into an idol in the shape of a calf. Aaron broke the commandment of God but please understand that Moses hasn’t come down with the commandments during that time. So Aaron declared that the next day they will celebrate the Festival of the Lord. The word “LORD” that mentioned here is the same Jehovah God (YAHWEH). So to Aaron, he thought it was alright and still worshipped the Lord. But God was angry and called them the stiff-necked people (v9). Then Moses sought favor from the Lord for mercy.
Moses came down with 2 tablets of God’s writing but he threw them out of his hands and broke into pieces because he was angry. Killer Litter!!! Then see what Moses did in v20. It is gross. I will not drink that.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Exodus 28 - 29 (8th Feb)
Exodus 28
Give us some details about the priests. Not only was a priest from the tribe of Levi, but also a descendant of Aaron (Moses’ brother), Israel’s first priest. The priests performed the daily sacrifices, maintained the tabernacle and provide counsel to the people how to follow God. They are the representatives of God and they need to live worthy lives. Aaron was in charge of all the priests and Levites. Now, Jesus is our high priest as he had sacrificed himself on the cross for the atonement of our sins. PTL! No need for daily sacrifices anymore! Safe us the time for marketing!
Exodus 29
Sin prevents people from approaching God. God then appointed priests from the tribe of Levi and set up a system of sacrifices to help the people approach God. God is actually preparing the people for the coming of Jesus Christ. Our God is a holy God. The holiness of God is greatly emphasized-the priests, the clothing, the tabernacle and the sacrifices had to be clean and consecrated as a preparation to meet God. Let’s come before God with reverence and repentance daily.
Give us some details about the priests. Not only was a priest from the tribe of Levi, but also a descendant of Aaron (Moses’ brother), Israel’s first priest. The priests performed the daily sacrifices, maintained the tabernacle and provide counsel to the people how to follow God. They are the representatives of God and they need to live worthy lives. Aaron was in charge of all the priests and Levites. Now, Jesus is our high priest as he had sacrificed himself on the cross for the atonement of our sins. PTL! No need for daily sacrifices anymore! Safe us the time for marketing!
Exodus 29
Sin prevents people from approaching God. God then appointed priests from the tribe of Levi and set up a system of sacrifices to help the people approach God. God is actually preparing the people for the coming of Jesus Christ. Our God is a holy God. The holiness of God is greatly emphasized-the priests, the clothing, the tabernacle and the sacrifices had to be clean and consecrated as a preparation to meet God. Let’s come before God with reverence and repentance daily.
In verse 45-46- shows God’s GREAT desire to be with the people and to protect them. God wants to live among us in our hearts and minds. Allow God to dwell and participate in every aspects of our lives. Let God be the Lord of our lives!
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Exodus 25 - 27 (7th Feb)
Exodus 25 – 31 gives the full record for the building of the tabernacle based on God’s directions.
Exodus 35-39 tells how these instructions were to be carried out.
Exodus 35-39 tells how these instructions were to be carried out.
Exodus 25
The high qualities of the precious materials used to build the tabernacle shows God’s greatness and transcendence. The curtain surrounding the most Holy Place shows God’s moral perfection symbolized by His separation from the common and unclean. The portable nature of the tabernacle shows God’s desire to be with His people as they traveled. Till now, God still desires to want us draw close to Him. Indeed, Christianity is not a religion but a relationship with God!
Exodus 26
Food for thought: When Jesus died on the cross, the curtain in the temple (which had replaced the tabernacle) tore from top to bottom (Mark 15:38) symbolizing our free access to God because of Jesus’ death. No longer do we need to approach God with sacrifices and through priests
Exodus 27
The altar of burnt offering was the first thing the Israelites saw as they entered the tabernacle courtyard. They could only go to God through sacrifices but now Jesus has made the ultimate sacrifice for all of us.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Exodus 22 - 24 (6th Feb)
Exodus 22
These are God's principles in action given to the Israelites. They serve to guide, protect and bless the people if they choose to abide to the principles. God also stressed the principles of restitution-making wrong RIGHT! If you have done someone wrong, make a point to make wrong RIGHT as this will
1) help ease any pain you have caused
2) help others more forgiving and
3) cause you to think before doing the wrong thing again.
Exodus 23
Laws of Justice and Mercy, Sabbath Laws, The Three Annual Festivals...again God gave out a list of laws for the people to follow, so that they will live right before the eyes of the Lord, God.
God is such a merciful and loving God who is always there to want to guide us, warn us so that we do not fall into the trap of sinning against Him and need to bear the consequences of our sins and hence miss out His blessings for us. God's angel to prepare the way---most likely the angel was a manifestation of God. God was the angel the same way He was present in the pillar of clouds and fire for the Hebrew people.
God will never leave nor forsake us...He is and will be there for all of us, in whatever situation we are in, at any point of time in our lives, He chose to want to be there for us---shows how wonderful and loving God is to us.
Exodus 24
God confirmed the covenant. God chose Moses alone to approach Him. Moses wrote down everything the Lord had said. Moses then built an altar at the foot of the mountain and set up 12 stone pillars representing the 12 tribes of Israel to worship and honour God.
God called Moses to go up to the mountains and He gave Moses the tablets of stone with the law and commands written for the people's instructions. Moses was with the Lord, God for 40 days and nights. Awesome, right?
Monday, February 05, 2007
Exodus 19 - 21 (5th Feb)
Exodus 19
The Lord assured the Israelites through Moses in v4-6 “I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself………” When Moses told the people, they replied that they will do everything the Lord has said (v8). Then the Lord came down and appeared to the Israelites with smoke and fire. Wow, it is awesome. If I was there, my jaw will probably dropped and with bended knees, I will just soak in His present.
Exodus 20
The Lord gave Moses the 10 commandments for the Israelites:-
1. You shall not have any other gods.
2. You shall not make or have any idol.
3. You shall not misuse God’s name.
4. Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
5. Honor your parents so you may live long in the land.
6. You shall not murder.
7. You shall not commit adultery.
8. You shall not steal.
9. You shall not give false testimony against someone.
10. You shall not covet.
The Lord assured the Israelites through Moses in v4-6 “I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself………” When Moses told the people, they replied that they will do everything the Lord has said (v8). Then the Lord came down and appeared to the Israelites with smoke and fire. Wow, it is awesome. If I was there, my jaw will probably dropped and with bended knees, I will just soak in His present.
Exodus 20
The Lord gave Moses the 10 commandments for the Israelites:-
1. You shall not have any other gods.
2. You shall not make or have any idol.
3. You shall not misuse God’s name.
4. Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
5. Honor your parents so you may live long in the land.
6. You shall not murder.
7. You shall not commit adultery.
8. You shall not steal.
9. You shall not give false testimony against someone.
10. You shall not covet.
The first 4 commandments talk about your relationship with God. The 5th commandment talks about your relationship with your parents. This is the only commandment that comes with a promise to claim, that you will live long in the land in peace. The 6th to 8th commandments is about your personal life and the last 2 commandments talk about your relationship with others.
The purpose (EX20:20) – Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that THE FEAR OF GOD will be with you to KEEP YOU FROM SINNING.
So remember this verse : EX2020
Exodus 21
The Laws that were set for the Israelites to follow. They have law for the servant, also for people who kill someone whether intentionally or accidentally, they also have laws that against people who harm others whether physically or verbally. Also laws for their pet animal.
So remember this verse : EX2020
Exodus 21
The Laws that were set for the Israelites to follow. They have law for the servant, also for people who kill someone whether intentionally or accidentally, they also have laws that against people who harm others whether physically or verbally. Also laws for their pet animal.
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Exodus 16 - 18 (4th Feb)
Exodus 16
The Israelites grumbled against Moses because food ran out and Moses said to them that they were not grumbling against him but against the Lord. The Lord then rained down bread from heaven. They called it Manna which means “What is it?” If you pronounce wrongly, it will sound like a Malay word which means “Where is it?”
Exodus 17
Again the Israelites grumbled and quarreled against Moses when they were thirsty. Moses replied, “Why do you quarrel with me? Why do you put the Lord to the test?” The Lord asked Moses to strike the rock and water will flow out from the rock.
The Israelites grumbled against Moses because food ran out and Moses said to them that they were not grumbling against him but against the Lord. The Lord then rained down bread from heaven. They called it Manna which means “What is it?” If you pronounce wrongly, it will sound like a Malay word which means “Where is it?”
Exodus 17
Again the Israelites grumbled and quarreled against Moses when they were thirsty. Moses replied, “Why do you quarrel with me? Why do you put the Lord to the test?” The Lord asked Moses to strike the rock and water will flow out from the rock.
So people, please remember, do not grumble or argue with your leaders. You are not against them but you are against the Lord who sent the leader to watch over you.
Then in this chapter, there is this lesson on spiritual warfare and the power of intercession. From v8 to v16 was a physical war of Joshua and his men fighting with the Amalekites. While the physical battle was on, Moses together with Aaron and Hur were doing the spiritual battle. The victory is ours if you persevere and press on in prayers.
Exodus 18
The Jethro principle. Work was too heavy for Moses and Jethro taught Moses to choose capable men to assist him.
Then in this chapter, there is this lesson on spiritual warfare and the power of intercession. From v8 to v16 was a physical war of Joshua and his men fighting with the Amalekites. While the physical battle was on, Moses together with Aaron and Hur were doing the spiritual battle. The victory is ours if you persevere and press on in prayers.
Exodus 18
The Jethro principle. Work was too heavy for Moses and Jethro taught Moses to choose capable men to assist him.
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Exodus 13 - 15 (3rd Feb)
Exodus 13
The Lord said to the Israelites to consecrate every firstborn male of man and animal. The Lord also commanded the Israelites to tell their children about what the Lord had done.
Exodus 14
The Lord went ahead of the Israelite in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way by the day and by the night in a pillar of fire to give them light. The Pharaoh and his officials changed their minds and they went after the Israelites. When the Israelites saw the Egyptians coming after them, they were afraid and cried out to God (v10) and then blamed Moses for bringing them out (v11).
The Lord said to the Israelites to consecrate every firstborn male of man and animal. The Lord also commanded the Israelites to tell their children about what the Lord had done.
Exodus 14
The Lord went ahead of the Israelite in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way by the day and by the night in a pillar of fire to give them light. The Pharaoh and his officials changed their minds and they went after the Israelites. When the Israelites saw the Egyptians coming after them, they were afraid and cried out to God (v10) and then blamed Moses for bringing them out (v11).
Ironic isn't it? If I’m there at the scene, what will be my response? If after I saw many miracles and also God being so real sending the pillar of cloud and fire in front of me to guide me, I will be very contented and follow Him without any complaint. But the Israelites complained that it would be better serving the Egyptians (v12). And Moses said “The Lord will fight for you; YOU NEED ONLY TO BE STILL. (v14)” Yes! BE STILL AND KNOW THAT HE IS GOD (Psalms 46:10)
Now, from the best movie in the 70s of the Hollywood came “Moses” With a nice picture of him lifting up his staff to part the sea. Can you imagine yourself at the scene? No! Not as Moses, but as one of the Israelite’s child. I’ll be walking through the Underwater World and Aquarium which was the world longest underwater world. I’ll be amazed that I can walk through the sea on dry ground. No crab, corals or lobsters around.
Then the Egyptians chased after the Israelites while crossing the sea and God covered the Egyptians such that not one of them survived (v28)
Exodus 15
God saved the Israelites and they all celebrated and worshipped the Lord with songs. Miriam, one of the prophetess (Aaron’s sister) danced and prophecised with songs. After walking in the desert for 3 days, they found water but the water was bitter and the people grumbled against Moses again (v24). Then Moses cried to the Lord and the Lord showed him to a piece of wood and Moses threw it into the water and the water turned sweet.
There God made a decree and a law to test the Israelites. “If you listen carefully to the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in His eyes, if you pay attention to His commands and keep all His decrees. I will not bring on you any diseases I brought on Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.”
Now, from the best movie in the 70s of the Hollywood came “Moses” With a nice picture of him lifting up his staff to part the sea. Can you imagine yourself at the scene? No! Not as Moses, but as one of the Israelite’s child. I’ll be walking through the Underwater World and Aquarium which was the world longest underwater world. I’ll be amazed that I can walk through the sea on dry ground. No crab, corals or lobsters around.
Then the Egyptians chased after the Israelites while crossing the sea and God covered the Egyptians such that not one of them survived (v28)
Exodus 15
God saved the Israelites and they all celebrated and worshipped the Lord with songs. Miriam, one of the prophetess (Aaron’s sister) danced and prophecised with songs. After walking in the desert for 3 days, they found water but the water was bitter and the people grumbled against Moses again (v24). Then Moses cried to the Lord and the Lord showed him to a piece of wood and Moses threw it into the water and the water turned sweet.
There God made a decree and a law to test the Israelites. “If you listen carefully to the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in His eyes, if you pay attention to His commands and keep all His decrees. I will not bring on you any diseases I brought on Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.”
So people, listen to the Lord’s word and obey His word.
Friday, February 02, 2007
Exodus 10 - 12 (2nd Feb)
Exodus 10
The plague continued. 8th The Plague of locusts. Again in v3, “Let my people go”. Pharaoh’s heart was hardened and then God brought locusts swarmed everywhere. After that Pharaoh seek for forgiveness and the locusts left (v16-19). Again, Pharaoh’s heart was hardened by the Lord.
Then came the 9th Plague. The plague of darkness which was to prepare for the next plague which was also the last plague that was coming. Pharaoh’s heart was still hardened.
Exodus 11 & 12
The final countdown….. then came the Plague of the firstborn. The Lord has given some instructions to the Israelites because God is going to strike down every firstborn. Instructions like how to cook lamb chop (Chapter 12:8, 9). I thought only Chinese eats every part of the animal? The Israelites were to take some blood and put it on the sides and tops of the doorframes of their houses. It was the Passover sacrifice of the Lord, who passed over the houses of Israelites in Egypt and spared their homes when He struck down the Egyptians. Then Pharaoh gave up and told Moses to go worship the Lord with the people and everything they have.
The Feast of the Unleavened Bread and Passover (v17-20) commemorates God’s Deliverance of Israel out of Egypt. It is a lasting ordinance for generations to come. Jesus ate the Passover with His disciples (Luke 22:7-20). Now in our generation, we called it Lord’s Supper or Holy Communion. Please note the regulations in partaking the Passover (v43-49). No foreigner is to eat of it. Which means it is not meant for non believers. All this is to remember Jesus, the sacrificial Lamb that delivered us from sin, slavery and bondages just as God delivered Israel out of Egypt.
So once again to sum up: DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEART and ALWAYS REMEMBER JESUS. He saved us all.
The plague continued. 8th The Plague of locusts. Again in v3, “Let my people go”. Pharaoh’s heart was hardened and then God brought locusts swarmed everywhere. After that Pharaoh seek for forgiveness and the locusts left (v16-19). Again, Pharaoh’s heart was hardened by the Lord.
Then came the 9th Plague. The plague of darkness which was to prepare for the next plague which was also the last plague that was coming. Pharaoh’s heart was still hardened.
Exodus 11 & 12
The final countdown….. then came the Plague of the firstborn. The Lord has given some instructions to the Israelites because God is going to strike down every firstborn. Instructions like how to cook lamb chop (Chapter 12:8, 9). I thought only Chinese eats every part of the animal? The Israelites were to take some blood and put it on the sides and tops of the doorframes of their houses. It was the Passover sacrifice of the Lord, who passed over the houses of Israelites in Egypt and spared their homes when He struck down the Egyptians. Then Pharaoh gave up and told Moses to go worship the Lord with the people and everything they have.
The Feast of the Unleavened Bread and Passover (v17-20) commemorates God’s Deliverance of Israel out of Egypt. It is a lasting ordinance for generations to come. Jesus ate the Passover with His disciples (Luke 22:7-20). Now in our generation, we called it Lord’s Supper or Holy Communion. Please note the regulations in partaking the Passover (v43-49). No foreigner is to eat of it. Which means it is not meant for non believers. All this is to remember Jesus, the sacrificial Lamb that delivered us from sin, slavery and bondages just as God delivered Israel out of Egypt.
So once again to sum up: DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEART and ALWAYS REMEMBER JESUS. He saved us all.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Exodus 7 - 9 (1st Feb)
Exodus 7
So ironic, God sent Moses and Aaron to rescue the Israelites and yet God hardened the heart of Pharaoh (v1-4). Well this was to show God’s mighty power and judgment over the Egyptians who had ill-treated God’s people. Remember in Genesis 45:18 that the previous Pharaoh promised the Joseph and his families the best of land and they can enjoy the fats of the land. In Genesis 47:20-27, you can see that the Israelites acquired property, were fruitful and great in number. Also then in Exodus 1:7, the Israelites were fruitful and multiplied greatly in numbers. But sadly in Exodus 1:8, a new king took over Egypt who did not know anything about Joseph. This is why God held judgment against Egypt and wanted to deliver the Israelites out of Egypt.
Then Pharaoh asked Moses and Aaron to perform a miracle. With Aaron’s staff, it became a snake. Also Pharaoh’s wise men, sorcerers and magicians came and perform the same act and each one threw their staff and it turned to a snake. Although the movie only shown 3 person with 3 snakes, you can read carefully that there were more then one wise man, more than one sorcerer and more than one magician because all is in plural. Then came the snake fight and Aaron’s snake won by eating up all the snakes. After eaten up so many snakes, it sure to be fat or maybe it was Anacondas. Still the Pharaoh’s heart was hardened.
So, the Lord started the mighty acts of judgment (v4), first, with the plague of blood. There were 10 plagues. The whole of Exodus is divided into
10 Plagues
10 Commandments
10 Parts of the Tabernacle
So, the first plague was the plague of blood where God said to Moses to tell Aaron to strike the water with his staff on the water of Nile and all the water in streams, canals, ponds, reservoirs, wooden bucket and stone jars (v19) turned to blood.
Exodus 8
For 7 days everywhere was blood and God said “Let my people go so that they may worship Me”. (v1). Pharaoh’s heart was hardened because his magicians also did the same with their secret arts (Ex 7:22). Then God sent the plague of frogs. Can you imagine frogs everywhere and the numerous screams by the gals? With all these, Pharaoh’s heart was softened and asked Moses and Aaron to ask God to get rid of the frogs and it was so. The frogs died. Because of that, Pharaoh hardened his heart again (v15)
Well, if this will to happen in China, frogs everywhere, it will be great. Chinese eats everything. By the way, Geylang got nice frog porridge. Oh man, I’m hungry. I’m still working in Bogota timing, lunchtime now over there and midnight here.
Then came the third plague, the plague of gnats where it stuck on men and animal irritating them and followed by the plague of flies swarmed everywhere, because Pharaoh’s heart was hardened.
Exodus 9
5th The plague on the livestock where all livestock died
6th The plague of festering boils that broke out on men and animals
7th The plague of hailstorm. Again Pharaoh asked Moses and Aaron to pray to God to stop and Moses did. But after Pharaoh saw that, he hardened his heart again. Sigh.
Well, all I can wrap up is this. God wants us to be free and to worship Him. DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEART.
So ironic, God sent Moses and Aaron to rescue the Israelites and yet God hardened the heart of Pharaoh (v1-4). Well this was to show God’s mighty power and judgment over the Egyptians who had ill-treated God’s people. Remember in Genesis 45:18 that the previous Pharaoh promised the Joseph and his families the best of land and they can enjoy the fats of the land. In Genesis 47:20-27, you can see that the Israelites acquired property, were fruitful and great in number. Also then in Exodus 1:7, the Israelites were fruitful and multiplied greatly in numbers. But sadly in Exodus 1:8, a new king took over Egypt who did not know anything about Joseph. This is why God held judgment against Egypt and wanted to deliver the Israelites out of Egypt.
Then Pharaoh asked Moses and Aaron to perform a miracle. With Aaron’s staff, it became a snake. Also Pharaoh’s wise men, sorcerers and magicians came and perform the same act and each one threw their staff and it turned to a snake. Although the movie only shown 3 person with 3 snakes, you can read carefully that there were more then one wise man, more than one sorcerer and more than one magician because all is in plural. Then came the snake fight and Aaron’s snake won by eating up all the snakes. After eaten up so many snakes, it sure to be fat or maybe it was Anacondas. Still the Pharaoh’s heart was hardened.
So, the Lord started the mighty acts of judgment (v4), first, with the plague of blood. There were 10 plagues. The whole of Exodus is divided into
10 Plagues
10 Commandments
10 Parts of the Tabernacle
So, the first plague was the plague of blood where God said to Moses to tell Aaron to strike the water with his staff on the water of Nile and all the water in streams, canals, ponds, reservoirs, wooden bucket and stone jars (v19) turned to blood.
Exodus 8
For 7 days everywhere was blood and God said “Let my people go so that they may worship Me”. (v1). Pharaoh’s heart was hardened because his magicians also did the same with their secret arts (Ex 7:22). Then God sent the plague of frogs. Can you imagine frogs everywhere and the numerous screams by the gals? With all these, Pharaoh’s heart was softened and asked Moses and Aaron to ask God to get rid of the frogs and it was so. The frogs died. Because of that, Pharaoh hardened his heart again (v15)
Well, if this will to happen in China, frogs everywhere, it will be great. Chinese eats everything. By the way, Geylang got nice frog porridge. Oh man, I’m hungry. I’m still working in Bogota timing, lunchtime now over there and midnight here.
Then came the third plague, the plague of gnats where it stuck on men and animal irritating them and followed by the plague of flies swarmed everywhere, because Pharaoh’s heart was hardened.
Exodus 9
5th The plague on the livestock where all livestock died
6th The plague of festering boils that broke out on men and animals
7th The plague of hailstorm. Again Pharaoh asked Moses and Aaron to pray to God to stop and Moses did. But after Pharaoh saw that, he hardened his heart again. Sigh.
Well, all I can wrap up is this. God wants us to be free and to worship Him. DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEART.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Exodus 4 - 7 (31st Jan)
I really thank God for everyone of you who contributed to the devotion for the last few days when I was not around. God bless all of you and His hands is upon you.
Exodus 4
Moses received his call from the Lord. His destiny was revealed to him, but he was afraid. God then asked Moses what was in his hand and he replied "A staff". With that God assured him with 2 miracles, turning his staff into snake (v 3, 4) and turning his hand to leprous and back to normal (v 7, 8). I don't know why he really still afraid. If i really got chance to be a burning bush, my walking stick turning to snake and my hands like snow, I will be awed and follow without asking.
Then Moses also afraid he can't speak well (v 10), and God assured him that He will help him to speak and will teach him what to say (v.11). I really need this from the Lord. Many times I asked the Lord to help me in my speech. You too can ask from the Lord in your speech and may it be words of encouragement and affirmation that comes forth from your mouth.
Hey people, each time if God calls you, be obedient to the call. God was angry with Moses (v 14) because after God assured him so many times, he was still reluctant to walk in the destiny until God had to send Aaron to accompany Moses (v 15).
Exodus 5
"Let my people go" this is the word that God commanded Moses to bring to Pharaoh. God wanted the Israelites to be free so they could worship the Lord (v 1). God knows the cry of the hearts of the Israelites and God sent Moses to the rescue. But the Israelites were angry because it made them suffered even more because Pharaoh said they were lazy.
2 things you can learn from here:
1. God wants us to be free and worship Him
2. Be a warrior of light in your workplace or school. Continue to shine. Do not allow people to say that you are lazy. Do your best even you felt unjustified.
That was what happened to the Israelites. They will feeling unjustified and lots of unsatisfaction and they blame the prophet of God for their suffering.
Exodus 6
God promised Moses that He will deliver the people out of Egypt. You can ask the Lord to free you from bondage and He will :-
1. Bring you out from under the yoke of bondages (v6)
2. Free you from slaves to sin (v6)
3. Redeem you with His outstretched arm (v6)
4. Take you as His own child (v7)
5. He will be our Father (v7)
So this day, make this your prayers. especially we are entering into Sanctification Week. May the Lord sanctify you and set you free. May His hands be upon your life. God bless.
Exodus 4
Moses received his call from the Lord. His destiny was revealed to him, but he was afraid. God then asked Moses what was in his hand and he replied "A staff". With that God assured him with 2 miracles, turning his staff into snake (v 3, 4) and turning his hand to leprous and back to normal (v 7, 8). I don't know why he really still afraid. If i really got chance to be a burning bush, my walking stick turning to snake and my hands like snow, I will be awed and follow without asking.
Then Moses also afraid he can't speak well (v 10), and God assured him that He will help him to speak and will teach him what to say (v.11). I really need this from the Lord. Many times I asked the Lord to help me in my speech. You too can ask from the Lord in your speech and may it be words of encouragement and affirmation that comes forth from your mouth.
Hey people, each time if God calls you, be obedient to the call. God was angry with Moses (v 14) because after God assured him so many times, he was still reluctant to walk in the destiny until God had to send Aaron to accompany Moses (v 15).
Exodus 5
"Let my people go" this is the word that God commanded Moses to bring to Pharaoh. God wanted the Israelites to be free so they could worship the Lord (v 1). God knows the cry of the hearts of the Israelites and God sent Moses to the rescue. But the Israelites were angry because it made them suffered even more because Pharaoh said they were lazy.
2 things you can learn from here:
1. God wants us to be free and worship Him
2. Be a warrior of light in your workplace or school. Continue to shine. Do not allow people to say that you are lazy. Do your best even you felt unjustified.
That was what happened to the Israelites. They will feeling unjustified and lots of unsatisfaction and they blame the prophet of God for their suffering.
Exodus 6
God promised Moses that He will deliver the people out of Egypt. You can ask the Lord to free you from bondage and He will :-
1. Bring you out from under the yoke of bondages (v6)
2. Free you from slaves to sin (v6)
3. Redeem you with His outstretched arm (v6)
4. Take you as His own child (v7)
5. He will be our Father (v7)
So this day, make this your prayers. especially we are entering into Sanctification Week. May the Lord sanctify you and set you free. May His hands be upon your life. God bless.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Exodus 1 - 3 (30th Jan) - Meijin
Exodus 1 ~ 3
Exodus is a book of deliverance.
Liberation from slavery.
Our God who remembers our cries.
Our God who groomed the shepherd to be the Prince of Egypt.
Our covenant keeping God.
Observation:
- Exodus records how God protected the Israelites. Pharaoh enslaved and oppressed the Israelites, but they still multiplied. To control the Jewish population, Pharaoh planned to kill newborn Hebrew males. But the Hebrew midwives stayed loyal to God and refused to obey Pharaoh. In turn, we read from verse 20 that “So God was good to the midwives”
- Moses, who saved the Hebrews from bondage, was born and raised under extraordinary circumstances. Son of a Hebrew slave, he became a member of the Egyptians and fled to the desert, where God prepared him for his future role
Inspiration:
- If we are faithful, we will persevere and overcome the challenges placed before us. God will not abandon us in tough times, and we should not abandon Him. [God says in Exodus 3:16~17 – I have been watching closely, and I see how the Egyptians are treating you. I have promised to rescue you from your oppression in Egypt. I will lead you to a land flowing with milk and honey..”]
- Perfect timing of God [Exodus 2:25 – “He looked down on the people of Israel and knew it was time to act”] Our covenant-keeping God truly intervenes in His perfect timing.
Application:
- How do you respond when the going gets tough?
- Remember, God hears our needs and answers prayers in the manner that will help us, serve His will, and often surprise us.
- Trust God in prayer right now for His special guidance today. Perhaps He can do something with the common.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Genesis 48 - 50 (29th Jan) - Karen
Summary of events (Gen 48-50)
The book of Genesis closes with the following events:
- Jacob blesses the sons of Joseph at his deathbed
- Jacob’s prophecy concerning his sons
- Death of Jacob and burial of Jacob
- Joseph reassures his brothers
- The death of Joseph
Here are a few learnings that strike me from reading the biographies of Jacob and Joseph in Gen 48-50.
1. God works in unexpected ways. (Gen 48: 8-20)
Jacob gave the younger son of Joseph, Ephraim, the greater blessing instead of Manasseh. Despite Joseph’s objections, Jacob was led by God to bestow the greater blessing to Ephraim.
From this we can see that God, in His blessings upon His people, gives more to some than to others, more gifts, more of the good things in life.
Also, we see that He often gives most to those who are least likely. He chooses the weak things of the world instead. When God chooses people to fill his plans, he goes deeper than position or tradition.
**God can use you to carry out His plans, even if you don’t think you have all it takes!**
2. Our past affects our present and future (Gen 49)
From Jacob’s prophecy over his sons, we can learn that the way the 12 men lived played an important part in their blessing and prophecy Jacob released over each on of them.
For example, the oldest son, Reuben, was supposed to receive a double inheritance, as it was his birthright blessing. However, he was unstable in his youth and committed the sin of sleeping with one of his father’s concubines. Hence Jacob withheld the birthright blessing to him.
For every action, there is a consequence. Our actions today will be part of our past. Yet this will already have a part to play in shaping our future.
**What action(s) can we choose or avoid so that our future can be shaped positively?**
3. Be patient, and trust in God. (Gen 50: 15-21)
After Jacob’s death, Joseph’s brothers were afraid that Joseph might take revenge on them for selling him into slavery. But Joseph surprised them by not only forgiving them but reassured them and offered to care for them. Joseph’s forgiveness was complete.
Joseph learnt from the experiences that God brings from evil for those who trust Him. Even by the sins of men God’s infinite wisdom is able to overrule events.
**Do we trust God enough to wait patiently for Him to bring good out of bad situations?**
The book of Genesis closes with the following events:
- Jacob blesses the sons of Joseph at his deathbed
- Jacob’s prophecy concerning his sons
- Death of Jacob and burial of Jacob
- Joseph reassures his brothers
- The death of Joseph
Here are a few learnings that strike me from reading the biographies of Jacob and Joseph in Gen 48-50.
1. God works in unexpected ways. (Gen 48: 8-20)
Jacob gave the younger son of Joseph, Ephraim, the greater blessing instead of Manasseh. Despite Joseph’s objections, Jacob was led by God to bestow the greater blessing to Ephraim.
From this we can see that God, in His blessings upon His people, gives more to some than to others, more gifts, more of the good things in life.
Also, we see that He often gives most to those who are least likely. He chooses the weak things of the world instead. When God chooses people to fill his plans, he goes deeper than position or tradition.
**God can use you to carry out His plans, even if you don’t think you have all it takes!**
2. Our past affects our present and future (Gen 49)
From Jacob’s prophecy over his sons, we can learn that the way the 12 men lived played an important part in their blessing and prophecy Jacob released over each on of them.
For example, the oldest son, Reuben, was supposed to receive a double inheritance, as it was his birthright blessing. However, he was unstable in his youth and committed the sin of sleeping with one of his father’s concubines. Hence Jacob withheld the birthright blessing to him.
For every action, there is a consequence. Our actions today will be part of our past. Yet this will already have a part to play in shaping our future.
**What action(s) can we choose or avoid so that our future can be shaped positively?**
3. Be patient, and trust in God. (Gen 50: 15-21)
After Jacob’s death, Joseph’s brothers were afraid that Joseph might take revenge on them for selling him into slavery. But Joseph surprised them by not only forgiving them but reassured them and offered to care for them. Joseph’s forgiveness was complete.
Joseph learnt from the experiences that God brings from evil for those who trust Him. Even by the sins of men God’s infinite wisdom is able to overrule events.
**Do we trust God enough to wait patiently for Him to bring good out of bad situations?**
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Genesis 46 - 47 (28th Jan) - Madeline
For the 2 chapters, I'll like to zoom into the character traits of Joseph, which we can learn from.
1)Joseph honours his parents
Genesis 47:11-12 "Joseph gave them a possession in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land, in the land of Ramses, as Pharaoh had commanded and sustained his father and his brothers with food."
Joseph brought much happiness to Jacob in his final 17 years of life, by uniting him with the rest of the family. We should honour our parents, which includes material ways of caring.
2)Integrity of Joseph
Gen 47:14 " And Joseph gathered up all the money that was found in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan, for the corn which they bought: and Joseph brought the money into Pharaoh's house."
Amid such heaps of money, the opportunity of plundering was super difficult to avoid. But whatever Joseph collected, he brought into the house of the king. It was integrity, to keep the hands pure amidst such heaps of gold. Joseph feared the Lord.
3) Wisdom of Joseph
Joseph was a Shepherd. Nope, he did not have a dip nor degree in business admin / Political Science. Yet, he governed the people in wisdom. By the end of the famine, most of the land became state-owned. And the people paid 20% tax to the Pharaoh!
No force nor threats had reduced the Egyptians to this necessity. Joseph transacted the king's business faithfully; and fulfilled the duties of his office, without resorting to violent edicts.
Let's fear the Lord and keep our integrity. May the Lord give us wisdom to govern,lead and administer... in our ministry, our school and the market place.... wherever God has and will place us. Amen!
1)Joseph honours his parents
Genesis 47:11-12 "Joseph gave them a possession in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land, in the land of Ramses, as Pharaoh had commanded and sustained his father and his brothers with food."
Joseph brought much happiness to Jacob in his final 17 years of life, by uniting him with the rest of the family. We should honour our parents, which includes material ways of caring.
2)Integrity of Joseph
Gen 47:14 " And Joseph gathered up all the money that was found in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan, for the corn which they bought: and Joseph brought the money into Pharaoh's house."
Amid such heaps of money, the opportunity of plundering was super difficult to avoid. But whatever Joseph collected, he brought into the house of the king. It was integrity, to keep the hands pure amidst such heaps of gold. Joseph feared the Lord.
3) Wisdom of Joseph
Joseph was a Shepherd. Nope, he did not have a dip nor degree in business admin / Political Science. Yet, he governed the people in wisdom. By the end of the famine, most of the land became state-owned. And the people paid 20% tax to the Pharaoh!
No force nor threats had reduced the Egyptians to this necessity. Joseph transacted the king's business faithfully; and fulfilled the duties of his office, without resorting to violent edicts.
Let's fear the Lord and keep our integrity. May the Lord give us wisdom to govern,lead and administer... in our ministry, our school and the market place.... wherever God has and will place us. Amen!
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Genesis 43 - 45 (27th Jan) - Weiling
Genesis 43 – 45
I won’t be summarizing the chapters since I assume you are already reading the bible chapters for yourself :) but I shall share about some of the points that strike me.
On Favoritism
All 10 brothers were sent on the first trip up to Egypt for food. Jacob/ Israel did not send Benjamin as “he was afraid that harm might come to him”. (Chp 42: 3, 4) [It seems like Benjamin’s life was a little bit more precious than theirs to Jacob] Upon their return, they discovered that their money had been returned to their sacks. If they went back to Egypt again, they might be accused to be thieves! Jacob refused to let them bring Benjamin down to get Simeon back as he was afraid of losing him as well, “his brother is dead and he is the only one left”. [Recap: Joseph and Benjamin were the 2 sons Jacob had with Rachel, the wife he loved.] It was only when i) they ran out of food and ii) Judah promised to guarantee Benjamin’s safety and bear all responsibility that Jacob allowed them to bring Benjamin along on their 2nd trip to Egypt.
Favoritism – we can’t control the affections of another person. It was very clear who Jacob favored – Rachel, Joseph and Benjamin. In Gen 29:31, it says “When the Lord saw that Leah was not loved, he opened her womb, but Rachel was barren”. God loved Leah and her sons. And I think God has a soft spot for the forgotten, the weak and the unloved. Sometimes we think it’s always the strong ones or the talented ones who gets picked. I used to think that Joseph would be in Jesus’ genealogy since he’s the hero of the story. But guess what? God chose to give the honor to Judah. (Matt 1: 3) What did Judah do?
What made him so special? But it’s really not about how smart a person is or what he does. We don’t have to strive for God’s love and acceptance. Read the child-bearing competition between Leah and Rachel in Gen 29 & 30 again to see how the women named their sons and fought for glory, honor and their husband’s affections. With Judah, Leah chose to simply praise God –“This time I will praise the Lord” (Gen 29: 35).
God’s perfect plan
It is not clearly stated why Joseph did not immediately reveal his identity to his brothers. Perhaps after his brothers tried to do harm to him in Chp 37, Joseph was not sure if he can fully trust them and thus decided to observe them further. But I do not think it was out of hatred or anger either. In fact, Joseph forgave them and asked that they “not be grieved or angry” with themselves Gen 45: 5. Joseph had gone through some very difficult times; and when he faced his brothers again, many a times his emotions overwhelmed him and he had to turn away to weep. (Gen 42: 24; 43: 30; 45: 1-2, 14-15) He was rejected, his brothers tried to do harm to him. He tried to do what was right, but was wrongly accused of sexual harassment and thrown into jail.
He was forgotten by the cup-bearer and spent two years prison before things took a significant turn for the better. There were probably many questions; many things that didn’t make sense at that point of time. But Joseph chose to look to God and trust Him. Finally, there was meaning in his suffering. (Gen 45: 5-8) If he was not sold to Egypt, if he had not interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, if he did not have favor… he would not have been able to help his family. It did not mean God caused the brothers to hate him and want to kill him, but that “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”(Rom 8: 28) All things are beautifully interwoven into God’s plan.
Even if you may not understand the things you are going through right now, trust in Him who loves you and makes all things beautiful in His time.
I won’t be summarizing the chapters since I assume you are already reading the bible chapters for yourself :) but I shall share about some of the points that strike me.
On Favoritism
All 10 brothers were sent on the first trip up to Egypt for food. Jacob/ Israel did not send Benjamin as “he was afraid that harm might come to him”. (Chp 42: 3, 4) [It seems like Benjamin’s life was a little bit more precious than theirs to Jacob] Upon their return, they discovered that their money had been returned to their sacks. If they went back to Egypt again, they might be accused to be thieves! Jacob refused to let them bring Benjamin down to get Simeon back as he was afraid of losing him as well, “his brother is dead and he is the only one left”. [Recap: Joseph and Benjamin were the 2 sons Jacob had with Rachel, the wife he loved.] It was only when i) they ran out of food and ii) Judah promised to guarantee Benjamin’s safety and bear all responsibility that Jacob allowed them to bring Benjamin along on their 2nd trip to Egypt.
Favoritism – we can’t control the affections of another person. It was very clear who Jacob favored – Rachel, Joseph and Benjamin. In Gen 29:31, it says “When the Lord saw that Leah was not loved, he opened her womb, but Rachel was barren”. God loved Leah and her sons. And I think God has a soft spot for the forgotten, the weak and the unloved. Sometimes we think it’s always the strong ones or the talented ones who gets picked. I used to think that Joseph would be in Jesus’ genealogy since he’s the hero of the story. But guess what? God chose to give the honor to Judah. (Matt 1: 3) What did Judah do?
What made him so special? But it’s really not about how smart a person is or what he does. We don’t have to strive for God’s love and acceptance. Read the child-bearing competition between Leah and Rachel in Gen 29 & 30 again to see how the women named their sons and fought for glory, honor and their husband’s affections. With Judah, Leah chose to simply praise God –“This time I will praise the Lord” (Gen 29: 35).
God’s perfect plan
It is not clearly stated why Joseph did not immediately reveal his identity to his brothers. Perhaps after his brothers tried to do harm to him in Chp 37, Joseph was not sure if he can fully trust them and thus decided to observe them further. But I do not think it was out of hatred or anger either. In fact, Joseph forgave them and asked that they “not be grieved or angry” with themselves Gen 45: 5. Joseph had gone through some very difficult times; and when he faced his brothers again, many a times his emotions overwhelmed him and he had to turn away to weep. (Gen 42: 24; 43: 30; 45: 1-2, 14-15) He was rejected, his brothers tried to do harm to him. He tried to do what was right, but was wrongly accused of sexual harassment and thrown into jail.
He was forgotten by the cup-bearer and spent two years prison before things took a significant turn for the better. There were probably many questions; many things that didn’t make sense at that point of time. But Joseph chose to look to God and trust Him. Finally, there was meaning in his suffering. (Gen 45: 5-8) If he was not sold to Egypt, if he had not interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, if he did not have favor… he would not have been able to help his family. It did not mean God caused the brothers to hate him and want to kill him, but that “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”(Rom 8: 28) All things are beautifully interwoven into God’s plan.
Even if you may not understand the things you are going through right now, trust in Him who loves you and makes all things beautiful in His time.
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