Read Your Bible...

When people say God is a figment of your imagination. Or when other religions make God out to be someone Who isn’t knowable, I simply say, “Read Exodus chapter 32”. Here you see God has emotions (just like us). He gets frustrated (just like us), and is able to listen to and relate to us. Does that sound like an unknowable God?

11 But Moses tried to pacify the Lord his God. “O Lord!” he said. “Why are You so angry with Your own people whom You brought from the land of Egypt with such great power and such a strong hand? 12 Why let the Egyptians say, ‘Their God rescued them with the evil intention of slaughtering them in the mountains and wiping them from the face of the earth’? Turn away from Your fierce anger. Change Your mind about this terrible disaster You have threatened against Your people! 13 Remember Your servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. You bound Yourself with an oath to them, saying, ‘I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars of heaven. And I will give them all of this land that I have promised to your descendants, and they will possess it forever.’ ”14 So the Lord changed His mind about the terrible disaster He had threatened to bring on His people. Exodus 32:11-14

No Alternative...

When people say there is no God, or they refuse to acknowledge Him, they replace Him with things that try to fill that void. Regardless of what people believe or acknowledge the place God put in everyone’s heart, must be filled with something. It a human being’s nature to worship. If it’s not God, it will be something else. That instinct, or God-given longing, makes us hold something up higher than ourselves. It can be money, fame, people, knowledge, stature, ability, or whatever the like. If God is not on His throne in our hearts, we will replace it with something else. The problem is, nothing can replace God’s rightful place He created in us. The Israelites, here in Exodus 32, did this very thing. Only after 40 days, only 40 days, from experiencing the miracles and presence of God Himself, grew desperate in need of replacing what was missing in their hearts (God). So what did they do? Made a calf made of gold to worship. This violated the first and 2nd Commandments. God and Moses were infuriated. Many people died because of it. I will have to admit, worshipping a God that we can’t see, hear, or touch is hard sometimes. The need to have something tangible seems necessary. God says “NO” to the tangible. What are we to do? Talk to Him daily, read His Word, stay grounded, and ask for help when those weak moments come. To me there is no alternative.

1 When the people saw how long it was taking Moses to come back down the mountain, they gathered around Aaron. “Come on,” they said, “make us some gods who can lead us. We don’t know what happened to this fellow Moses, who brought us here from the land of Egypt.”2 So Aaron said, “Take the gold rings from the ears of your wives and sons and daughters, and bring them to me.”3 All the people took the gold rings from their ears and brought them to Aaron. 4 Then Aaron took the gold, melted it down, and molded it into the shape of a calf. When the people saw it, they exclaimed, “O Israel, these are the gods who brought you out of the land of Egypt!”5 Aaron saw how excited the people were, so he built an altar in front of the calf. Then he announced, “Tomorrow will be a festival to the Lord!”6 The people got up early the next morning to sacrifice burnt offerings and peace offerings. After this, they celebrated with feasting and drinking, and they indulged in pagan revelry.7 The Lord told Moses, “Quick! Go down the mountain! Your people whom you brought from the land of Egypt have corrupted themselves. 8 How quickly they have turned away from the way I commanded them to live! They have melted down gold and made a calf, and they have bowed down and sacrificed to it. They are saying, ‘These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you out of the land of Egypt.’ ”9 Then the Lord said, “I have seen how stubborn and rebellious these people are. 10 Now leave Me alone so My fierce anger can blaze against them, and I will destroy them. Then I will make you, Moses, into a great nation.” Exodus 32:1-10

Being Prepared....

Being prepared has its benefits. In this parable we see the importance of being prepared. How often do we take things for granted and fail to prepare? Either be it laziness, a non-chalant attitude, being too busy, or whatever the excuse, we should never allow ourselves to get too comfortable in our own shoes. Whenever I have a photo session, I prepare for it. I do a facial analysis of the subject. Look over his/her bio to find any kind of connection that will help me capture their personality. I even look up samples and previous work I’ve done to get ideas. But sometimes (I should all the time) I go above and beyond this preparedness routine. I’ll walk the property or scout a location trying to make a connection. Sometimes, I even goes as far as creating a storyboard of ideas. Whenever I go above and beyond my normal pre-session preparedness I always end up with better images. The point is, you can’t allow your years of experience, popularity, confidence, money, or any other possibility get in the way of taking Christ’s return for granted. The unknown holds us accountable. It eliminates any reason or excuse to not take it for granted. He could come when you least expect it. And when He does come, hopefully, He won’t catch you empty-handed. Being prepared shows how much Jesus’ return means to you. It’s either real and eminent, or it’s not.

1 “Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom.2 Five of them were foolish, and five were wise.3 The five who were foolish didn’t take enough olive oil for their lamps,4 but the other five were wise enough to take along extra oil.5 When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep.6 “At midnight they were roused by the shout, ‘Look, the bridegroom is coming! Come out and meet him!’7 “All the bridesmaids got up and prepared their lamps.8 Then the five foolish ones asked the others, ‘Please give us some of your oil because our lamps are going out.’9 “But the others replied, ‘We don’t have enough for all of us. Go to a shop and buy some for yourselves.’10 “But while they were gone to buy oil, the bridegroom came. Then those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was locked.11 Later, when the other five bridesmaids returned, they stood outside, calling, ‘Lord! Lord! Open the door for us!’12 “But he called back, ‘Believe me, I don’t know you!’13 “So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of My return. Matthew 25:1-13

Responsibility to Be Accountable...

We are stewards of God’s creation. We have a responsibility to be accountable and beneficial to Him. When we have the power to do good, or make right a wrong, we should do it. What we do with what God has given us matters. It all belongs to Him anyway, right? Shouldn’t we use what He has entrusted to us to benefit His kingdom? The only way this is possible is to be faithful in handling what Big or little He has given us, so that we too may hear those all-important words, “well done, My good and faithful servant.”

14 “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a man going on a long trip. He called together his servants and entrusted his money to them while he was gone.15 He gave five bags of silver to one, two bags of silver to another, and one bag of silver to the last–dividing it in proportion to their abilities. He then left on his trip.16 “The servant who received the five bags of silver began to invest the money and earned five more.17 The servant with two bags of silver also went to work and earned two more.18 But the servant who received the one bag of silver dug a hole in the ground and hid the master’s money.19 “After a long time their master returned from his trip and called them to give an account of how they had used his money.20 The servant to whom he had entrusted the five bags of silver came forward with five more and said, ‘Master, you gave me five bags of silver to invest, and I have earned five more.’21 “The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’22 “The servant who had received the two bags of silver came forward and said, ‘Master, you gave me two bags of silver to invest, and I have earned two more.’23 “The master said, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’24 “Then the servant with the one bag of silver came and said, ‘Master, I knew you were a harsh man, harvesting crops you didn’t plant and gathering crops you didn’t cultivate.25 I was afraid I would lose your money, so I hid it in the earth. Look, here is your money back.’26 “But the master replied, ‘You wicked and lazy servant! If you knew I harvested crops I didn’t plant and gathered crops I didn’t cultivate,27 why didn’t you deposit my money in the bank? At least I could have gotten some interest on it.’28 “Then he ordered, ‘Take the money from this servant, and give it to the one with the ten bags of silver.29 To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away.30 Now throw this useless servant into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ Matthew 25:14-30

The Value of an Object....

The value of an object is based upon the price someone is willing to pay. If God sent His Son, Jesus, to die for me, then no one should ever make me feel inferior again. Our value comes from the One Who paid the ultimate price with His life so that we may live with Him forever. That should be the highest form of significance we will ever find. That is what we should pursue. “On Christ the solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand”. Ask Him today to help you experience His love, then go out and share it with those who walk in your same shoes (i.e. everyone in need).

18 For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And the ransom He paid was not mere gold or silver. 19 It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God. 1 Peter 1:18-19

It’s Easy To Forget....

It’s so easy to forget that God determines the outcome. Our duty is to be faithful. We are all in this together. Never forget to pray for others. And celebrate what God does in their lives as well.

1 In times of trouble, may the Lord answer your cry.May the name of the God of Jacob keep you safe from all harm.2 May He send you help from His sanctuaryand strengthen you from Jerusalem.3 May He remember all your giftsand look favorably on your burnt offerings.Interlude 4 May He grant your heart’s desiresand make all your plans succeed.5 May we shout for joy when we hear of your victoryand raise a victory banner in the name of our God.May the Lord answer all your prayers. Psalms 20:1-5

Keeping Others Close to Our Hearts...

The design of the Ephod and Chestpiece worn by the High Priest when he enters into the Holy of Holies, reminds me of our government. The design and purpose of this garment was for Aaron, the High Priest, to wear close to his heart. It represents the people of Israel. He was their representative before God. He was always supposed to remember that he was going before God, not only for himself, but also for the people. What a responsibility. Isn’t that exactly how our government was designed to operate. If only each of our representatives in Congress and the Senate took their responsibility as seriously as Aaron, the High Priest did? If they didn’t forget that they were to hold the people they represent close to their heart. We probably wouldn’t be in the mess America has turned into.

29 “In this way, Aaron will carry the names of the tribes of Israel on the sacred chestpiece over his heart when he goes into the Holy Place. This will be a continual reminder that he represents the people when he comes before the Lord. 30 Insert the Urim and Thummim into the sacred chestpiece so they will be carried over Aaron’s heart when he goes into the Lord’s presence. In this way, Aaron will always carry over his heart the objects used to determine the Lord’s will for His people whenever he goes in before the Lord. Exodus 28:29-30

A Specific Way In...

Again we read of the details of how the tabernacle courtyard are to be constructed. The details given to Moses by God are very specific. The tabernacle and courtyard were designed in such a way that people on the outside couldn’t see in. And even more importantly, getting in wasn’t easy. There was a specific procedure to enter. This parallels Heaven. God makes it to where outsiders can’t see in. Those whose hearts that haven’t been regenerated can’t grasp or see into God’s kingdom. And of course, according to the Bible there’s a specific way to enter. No easy access unless one’s heart is right with God (on Jesus’ behalf). Every time I read through this book God reveals more and more to me that I could’ve ever imagined. Wow!!!

9 “Then make the courtyard for the Tabernacle, enclosed with curtains made of finely woven linen. On the south side, make the curtains 150 feet long. 10 They will be held up by twenty posts set securely in twenty bronze bases. Hang the curtains with silver hooks and rings. 11 Make the curtains the same on the north side—150 feet of curtains held up by twenty posts set securely in bronze bases. Hang the curtains with silver hooks and rings. 12 The curtains on the west end of the courtyard will be 75 feet long, supported by ten posts set into ten bases. 13 The east end of the courtyard, the front, will also be 75 feet long. 14 The courtyard entrance will be on the east end, flanked by two curtains. The curtain on the right side will be 22 ½ feet long, supported by three posts set into three bases. 15 The curtain on the left side will also be 22 ½ feet long, supported by three posts set into three bases.16 “For the entrance to the courtyard, make a curtain that is 30  feet long. Make it from finely woven linen, and decorate it with beautiful embroidery in blue, purple, and scarlet thread. Support it with four posts, each securely set in its own base. 17 All the posts around the courtyard must have silver rings and hooks and bronze bases. 18 So the entire courtyard will be 150  feet long and 75  feet wide, with curtain walls 7 ½ feet high, made from finely woven linen. The bases for the posts will be made of bronze.19 “All the articles used in the rituals of the Tabernacle, including all the tent pegs used to support the Tabernacle and the courtyard curtains, must be made of bronze. Exodus 27:9-19

How to Know a False Prophet...

How will you know a false prophet from a real one? Study the real thing. Just as the IRS trains their agents on how to spot a counterfeit bill by studying the real thing, we too should study and know Jesus. So before He returns, we should be able to decipher all the false prophets from the authentic ones. By reading about Him, studying Him, talking to Him, and sharing Our experiences with Him to others, there’s no reason why we should be deceived. The only reason most will be deceived is because they never knew Him to start with. And the only reason some believers might be deceived is because they fail to ask God to reveal Himself to them. It’s a daily, moment by moment thing. Don’t allow the “busyness” of life to rob your spirit of this great privilege. Study the real thing, and pursue knowing God, so when the end times come, you won’t be confused and disappointed when it happens.

As Jesus was leaving the Temple grounds, His disciples pointed out to Him the various Temple buildings. 2 But He responded, “Do you see all these buildings? I tell you the truth, they will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another!”3 Later, Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives. His disciples came to Him privately and said, “Tell us, when will all this happen? What sign will signal Your return and the end of the world?”4 Jesus told them, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, 5 for many will come in My name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah.’ They will deceive many.6 And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately.7 Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world.8 But all this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come.9 “Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because you are My followers.10 And many will turn away from Me and betray and hate each other.11 And many false prophets will appear and will deceive many people.12 Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold.13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved.14 And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then the end will come.15 “The day is coming when you will see what Daniel the prophet spoke about–the sacrilegious object that causes desecration standing in the Holy Place.” (Reader, pay attention!) 16 “Then those in Judea must flee to the hills.17 A person out on the deck of a roof must not go down into the house to pack.18 A person out in the field must not return even to get a coat.19 How terrible it will be for pregnant women and for nursing mothers in those days.20 And pray that your flight will not be in winter or on the Sabbath.21 For there will be greater anguish than at any time since the world began. And it will never be so great again.22 In fact, unless that time of calamity is shortened, not a single person will survive. But it will be shortened for the sake of God’s chosen ones.23 “Then if anyone tells you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah,’ or ‘There he is,’ don’t believe it.24 For false messiahs and false prophets will rise up and perform great signs and wonders so as to deceive, if possible, even God’s chosen ones.25 See, I have warned you about this ahead of time.26 “So if someone tells you, ‘Look, the Messiah is out in the desert,’ don’t bother to go and look. Or, ‘Look, he is hiding here,’ don’t believe it!27 For as the lightning flashes in the east and shines to the west, so it will be when the Son of Man comes. 28 Just as the gathering of vultures shows there is a carcass nearby, so these signs indicate that the end is near. Matthew 24:1-28

No Laughing Matter...

Adultery is no laughing matter. It should be taken seriously. There’s a reason why God says He hates divorce. So should we.

32 But the man who commits adultery is an utter fool,for he destroys himself.33 He will be wounded and disgraced.His shame will never be erased.34 For the woman’s jealous husband will be furious,and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge.35 He will accept no compensation,nor be satisfied with a payoff of any size. Proverbs 6:32-35

Truths About God...

In Psalm 19 the writer helps reveal many truths about God. First, he shows us God is revealed through Nature. When we witness something beautiful in nature it sparks something inside of us that questions Who He is, in order to pursue knowing Him. Nature reveals God’s knowledge and power, but it’s His Word that reveals His Love and Grace. Nature acknowledges His existence, but it’s His Word that shows us He wants a relationship with us. In the last few verses we get a clear representation of the flesh; an honest view of oneself and a rightful prayer to God. This all shows us that the condition of our heart matters to God. Never is it expected to be perfect, for we failed in that regard from the beginning. God wants us to know our place, be real and honest with ourselves, and give Him our sincerity in all we do. It’s only with His help, this can be possible.

1 The heavens proclaim the glory of God.The skies display His craftsmanship.2 Day after day they continue to speak;night after night they make Him known.3 They speak without a sound or word;their voice is never heard.4 Yet their message has gone throughout the earth,and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for the sun.5 It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding.It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race.6 The sun rises at one end of the heavensand follows its course to the other end.Nothing can hide from its heat. 7 The instructions of the Lord are perfect,reviving the soul.The decrees of the Lord are trustworthy,making wise the simple.8 The commandments of the Lord are right,bringing joy to the heart.The commands of the Lord are clear,giving insight for living.9 Reverence for the Lord is pure,lasting forever.The laws of the Lord are true;each one is fair.10 They are more desirable than gold,even the finest gold.They are sweeter than honey,even honey dripping from the comb.11 They are a warning to Your servant,a great reward for those who obey them. 12 How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart?Cleanse me from these hidden faults.13 Keep Your servant from deliberate sins!Don’t let them control me.Then I will be free of guiltand innocent of great sin. 14 May the words of my mouthand the meditation of my heartbe pleasing to You,O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Psalms 19

The Smallest of Details...

The God of the Bible cares about details. He never does things half-hearted. He cares about the small stuff. When most people read the detailed instructions about how the Israelites were supposed to build the Tabernacle and all its contents, most people would miss the revelation of God’s character in it. They would skim through it maybe even saying, “it’s boring”. When I read it, I see a God who cares about the smallest of details. I see reasons for the little things. I see a God who never just goes through the motions. We should see this an emulate Him. And we should always remember that if He cares about the small, detailed things in life, whatever we are going through, be it small and seemingly insignificant, God notices and cares about it. You’ve heard the saying, “don’t sweat the small stuff”, well God even cares about that too. You are not insignificant to Him.

10 “Have the people make an Ark of acacia wood–a sacred chest 45  inches long, 27  inches wide, and 27  inches high. 11 Overlay it inside and outside with pure gold, and run a molding of gold all around it. 12 Cast four gold rings and attach them to its four feet, two rings on each side. 13 Make poles from acacia wood, and overlay them with gold. 14 Insert the poles into the rings at the sides of the Ark to carry it. 15 These carrying poles must stay inside the rings; never remove them. 16 When the Ark is finished, place inside it the stone tablets inscribed with the terms of the covenant, which I will give to you.17 “Then make the Ark’s cover–the place of atonement–from pure gold. It must be 45  inches long and 27  inches wide. 18 Then make two cherubim from hammered gold, and place them on the two ends of the atonement cover. 19 Mold the cherubim on each end of the atonement cover, making it all of one piece of gold. 20 The cherubim will face each other and look down on the atonement cover. With their wings spread above it, they will protect it. 21 Place inside the Ark the stone tablets inscribed with the terms of the covenant, which I will give to you. Then put the atonement cover on top of the Ark. 22 I will meet with you there and talk to you from above the atonement cover between the gold cherubim that hover over the Ark of the Covenant. From there I will give you My commands for the people of Israel. Exodus 25:10-22

What We Miss About God...

I would love to read these verses out loud at any anti-God rally. When anyone calls God a bad name, or tries to paint a picture of God that makes Him out to be an angry dictator, these verses refute any such allegations. If only people would see Him for Who He really is! It’s not until you see and experience the Heart of God, that our eyes are opened to see His kindness and love for us, that can only come from a sincere, repentant heart. And that can only come from the realization that you are a sinner doomed to condemnation, but have the ability to be rescued for His glory, through faith in Jesus. After reading these passages, do you think some of the haters out there might change their minds about God?

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones God’s messengers! How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen protects her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn’t let Me. 38 And now, look, your house is abandoned and desolate.39 For I tell you this, you will never see Me again until you say, ‘Blessings on the One who comes in the name of the Lord!’” Matthew 23:37-39

32 I don’t want you to die, says the Sovereign Lord. Turn back and live! Ezekiel 18:32

11 As surely as I live, says the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of wicked people. I only want them to turn from their wicked ways so they can live. Turn! Turn from your wickedness, O people of Israel! Why should you die? Ezekiel 33:11

Hypocrisy and What We Do About It....

Hypocrisy. What’s behind this act of will we all participate in? First off, let’s define it. Hypocrisy is when someone behaves in a manner that contradicts the words they proclaim. They really don’t believe what they say, they only say it to gain attention, or “look good” towards others. They are pretenders, fakes, false teachers, and the like. On the same end of the spectrum, when someone acts in a manner that contradicts what they say, but they still side with the truth, it’s not hypocrisy, rather it’s failure to abide in the Spirit of God. You can tell the difference between a real hypocrite and an “apparent hypocrite” by how they respond to being called out. The AP (apparent hypocrite) will admit their failure and try to make right what they messed up. The real hypocrite will try to justify their stance and start blaming others. The underlying principle here is true and real hypocrisy is when an individual fears man more than fears God. He is more concerned with his external appearance, his reputation, his honor, himself, more than he’s concerned about his internal state of being. So many people today put all of their time and effort into developing their outsides, that their insides atrophy due to neglect. I’m guilty of doing this at times. I fall pray to focusing on myself at the expense of others. But for some reason, I don’t stay there too long. God has given me a spirit that will fight for justice and doing the right thing. Even if I don’t “feel like it”, I know it has to be done, so I do it. I’m so grateful for those God has placed in my life to be reminders that my insides matter more than my outsides. Even if that hurts a little when I’m told my behavior isn’t adding up. How about you?

23 “What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are careful to tithe even the tiniest income from your herb gardens, but you ignore the more important aspects of the law–justice, mercy, and faith. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things.24 Blind guides! You strain your water so you won’t accidentally swallow a gnat, but you swallow a camel!25 “What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy–full of greed and self-indulgence! 26 You blind Pharisee! First wash the inside of the cup and the dish, and then the outside will become clean, too.27 “What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs–beautiful on the outside but filled on the inside with dead people’s bones and all sorts of impurity.28 Outwardly you look like righteous people, but inwardly your hearts are filled with hypocrisy and lawlessness.29 “What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you build tombs for the prophets your ancestors killed, and you decorate the monuments of the godly people your ancestors destroyed.30 Then you say, ‘If we had lived in the days of our ancestors, we would never have joined them in killing the prophets.’31 “But in saying that, you testify against yourselves that you are indeed the descendants of those who murdered the prophets.32 Go ahead and finish what your ancestors started.33 Snakes! Sons of vipers! How will you escape the judgment of hell?34 “Therefore, I am sending you prophets and wise men and teachers of religious law. But you will kill some by crucifixion, and you will flog others with whips in your synagogues, chasing them from city to city.35 As a result, you will be held responsible for the murder of all godly people of all time–from the murder of righteous Abel to the murder of Zechariah son of Barachiah, whom you killed in the Temple between the sanctuary and the altar.36 I tell you the truth, this judgment will fall on this very generation. Matthew 23:23-36

Thousands of Years of Conflict...

A simple command, if followed, prevents thousands of years of conflict. If only the Israelites did what God told them, there wouldn’t be conflict in the Middle East today.

33 They must not live in your land, or they will cause you to sin against Me. If you serve their gods, you will be caught in the trap of idolatry.” Exodus 23:33

Trying to Gain Acceptance...

Here’s a simple truth that all people need to remember: God never declares the guilty to be innocent. Never. For all those out there living a lifestyle that opposes God, trying to gain acceptance, is a life lived in vain. The very thing they want, is only found in Jesus. And unfortunately, He’s the farthest thing in their mind, from the solution to their problem. On the other hand, God never declares guilty, those that are innocent. However, we are all guilty, and God saves us anyway. Jesus saves, what a wonderful God we have to serve. Without Him, we live in vain.

7 “Be sure never to charge anyone falsely with evil. Never sentence an innocent or blameless person to death, for I never declare a guilty person to be innocent. Exodus 23:7

Little to No Reverence...

Evidence of a society that has little to no reverence for God. They pass along false rumors. They cooperate with evil people, by agreeing to lie for them. They follow the crowd in doing wrong. They are swayed by the crowds to twist justice. And finally, their testimonies are based on prejudice. Just because someone is black, white, brown, pink, or purple, or rich, poor, or middle class; should someone bear a predetermined story to suit that person. All of this happens in America today, because of the lack of direction in following God.

1 “You must not pass along false rumors. You must not cooperate with evil people by lying on the witness stand.2 “You must not follow the crowd in doing wrong. When you are called to testify in a dispute, do not be swayed by the crowd to twist justice. 3 And do not slant your testimony in favor of a person just because that person is poor. Exodus 23:1-3

Taking Sin Lightly...

When we start to think a sin isn’t as bad as people make it out to be, we need to seriously examine our motives and where we are spiritually. Taking sin lightly will eventually bring us to a place we don’t want to be. People who think adultery isn’t a big deal better think again.

26 For a prostitute will bring you to poverty,but sleeping with another man’s wife will cost you your life.27 Can a man scoop a flame into his lapand not have his clothes catch on fire?28 Can he walk on hot coalsand not blister his feet?29 So it is with the man who sleeps with another man’s wife.He who embraces her will not go unpunished. Proverbs 6:26-29

God’s Ways Are Just....

In America we have many laws that help protect and govern our nation based on the laws God gave the Jews in the book of Exodus. Many of them are very effective. Here are a few that if we’re still instituted here in America, the crime rate would definitely fall and the prison system wouldn’t be so full. The seducer must marry his victim. I know you probably think this is atrocious, but God was looking out for the woman in these cases. Normally that meant she would never have a wedding because she was defiled, no one would want her. She would live as a widow the rest of her life. Do you think it might deter the seducer knowing that you would be married to the one you violated? Thief’s must become slaves to the ones they robbed. Violators of the law were punished according to their crimes, i.e. eye for eye, tooth for tooth, wound for wound. No interest was to charged if you lend to those in need. If we, as a nation, lived by God’s standards I know crime and dishonesty wouldn’t be so prevalent. His standards take everything into consideration and provide justice, security, and fair punishment for our behavior.

23 But if there is further injury, the punishment must match the injury: a life for a life, 24 an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a hand for a hand, a foot for a foot, 25 a burn for a burn, a wound for a wound, a bruise for a bruise. Exodus 21:23-25

“A thief who is caught must pay in full for everything he stole. If he cannot pay, he must be sold as a slave to pay for his theft. Exodus 22:3c

16 “If a man seduces a virgin who is not engaged to anyone and has sex with her, he must pay the customary bride price and marry her. 17 But if her father refuses to let him marry her, the man must still pay him an amount equal to the bride price of a virgin. Exodus 22:16-17

The 10 Commandments Serve a Purpose...

The Ten Commandments are the staple of the Christian faith. Why? Because when they serve their purpose, a sinner repents and turns to God. The thing I never understood about people who don’t want the 10 Commandments displayed anywhere is when someone guns people down at schools or in a public place they angrily ask, “Why?” If you don’t teach children that murder is wrong, how can you expect them to behave and not kill innocent people? The purpose of the 10 Commandments is not to set the standard of living, however it does do that. Rather it’s a mirror in our lives. When we break one of the Commandments, it’s called sin, it proves that we are sinners. And the wages of sin is death. So it’s purpose is to show us we are sinners. If we’re sinners then we are doomed. However, once we realize and admit we are sinners, we realize we need to be rescued. We need a Savior. Jesus is that Savior. So in essence, the 10 Commandments tell us we are sinners (for no one can keep all ten their entire life), then point us to the Savior Jesus. In the OT, the 10 Commandments are presented in a “Don’t “ method, a negative type of light. However in the NT, they are presented in a positive, “Do” light. The 10 Commandments are broken down into two sections, vertical and horizontal. The first four are how we are to interact with God, and the last six are how we are to interact with people. Jesus clearly points this out in this passage in Matthew 22. The most important commandment is to love, respect, and honor God in all that you do. Then, it’s vitally important to treat your fellow man with the same convictions. When you do that, you keep the law, and God is pleased. Not that you can earn Heaven, by doing this. It just shows your affections are with God and not on the world. Two simple commands, but oh so hard to live out. Ask God to empower you with His Spirit today, to love; Love Him, and love others. Then you will be serving your purpose; knowing your “why” you were put here on earth.

34 But when the Pharisees heard that He had silenced the Sadducees with His reply, they met together to question Him again. 35 One of them, an expert in religious law, tried to trap Him with this question: 36 “Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?”37 Jesus replied, “ ‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment.39 A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’40 The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:34-40

Two Things That Measure a Society...

Why is society the way it is today? Why are people so vain, so selfish, so confused? Why does evil reign? Why do people call evil good and good evil? I can give you two reasons. First, because the fear of God keeps people from sinning. It’s hard to find reverence for God here in America. And second, few have experienced His Grace, and allowed it to change them. A healthy reverence for God, and a sincere gratitude of receiving His Grace are the two solid factors that determine the spiritual health of a group of people.

19 And they said to Moses, “You speak to us, and we will listen. But don’t let God speak directly to us, or we will die!”20 “Don’t be afraid,” Moses answered them, “for God has come in this way to test you, and so that your fear of Him will keep you from sinning!” Exodus 20:19-20

4 Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that His kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? Romans 2:4

Pretenders In A Real World...

How many times have you been around people who know the truth (at least aware of it), and yet do nothing about it? Or even oppose it? If these Pharisees and Herodians knew Jesus “taught the way of God truthfully” and was “impartial and (didn’t) play favorites”, then why would they be asking Him this question? Because they are willful hypocrites; ones that criticize others for the very thing they do themselves. They are pretenders in a real world. Being grounded in the WORD, helps us decipher these “fakes” from honest, genuinely interested people. We should shake the dust off our feet and leave these people to their own demise.

15 Then the Pharisees met together to plot how to trap Jesus into saying something for which He could be arrested. 16 They sent some of their disciples, along with the supporters of Herod, to meet with Him. “Teacher,” they said, “we know how honest You are. You teach the way of God truthfully. You are impartial and don’t play favorites. 17 Now tell us what You think about this: Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?”18 But Jesus knew their evil motives. “You hypocrites!” He said. “Why are you trying to trap Me? 19 Here, show Me the coin used for the tax.” When they handed Him a Roman coin, 20 He asked, “Whose picture and title are stamped on it?”21 “Caesar’s,” they replied.“Well, then,” He said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.”22 His reply amazed them, and they went away. Matthew 22:15-22

Things God Hates...

God hates these things. 1. Pride in any form 2. Lying 3. Murder or agreement that it’s okay (abortion) 4. Plotting evil 5. No discernment/ quick to sin 6. False witness 7. Conflict within the family How many are constant in your life? This includes your thought life.

16 There are six things the Lord hates–no, seven things He detests:17 haughty eyes,a lying tongue,hands that kill the innocent,18 a heart that plots evil,feet that race to do wrong,19 a false witness who pours out lies,a person who sows discord in a family. Proverbs 6:16-19

Standing in the Gap...

Man was never meant to live and exist by himself. When God created man, He said it wasn’t good for him to be alone, so He created a helpmate, Eve. Here in Exodus chapter 17, we find Moses’ arms growing tired from holding up his staff. It was significant that he do this, because as long as he held it up, the Israelites had the advantage over the Amalekites in battle. Aaron and Hur held up Moses’ arms when he tired to assure the victory. We always need other believers in our lives, be it family or friends to stand in the gap when we are weak or unable to finish the task. Are you one that understands this and allows others to help you when needed? Are you one to stand in the Gap for others? It’s what the Church is all about.

8 While the people of Israel were still at Rephidim, the warriors of Amalek attacked them. 9 Moses commanded Joshua, “Choose some men to go out and fight the army of Amalek for us. Tomorrow, I will stand at the top of the hill, holding the staff of God in my hand.”10 So Joshua did what Moses had commanded and fought the army of Amalek. Meanwhile, Moses, Aaron, and Hur climbed to the top of a nearby hill. 11 As long as Moses held up the staff in his hand, the Israelites had the advantage. But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites gained the advantage. 12 Moses’ arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset. 13 As a result, Joshua overwhelmed the army of Amalek in battle.14 After the victory, the Lord instructed Moses, “Write this down on a scroll as a permanent reminder, and read it aloud to Joshua: I will erase the memory of Amalek from under heaven.” 15 Moses built an altar there and named it Yahweh-nissi (which means “the Lord is my banner”). 16 He said, “They have raised their fist against the Lord’s throne, so now the Lord will be at war with Amalek generation after generation.” Exodus 17:8-16

The Cause of Spiritual Blindness...

Pride causes us to be spiritually blind.

45 When the leading priests and Pharisees heard this parable, they realized He was telling the story against them–they were the wicked farmers. 46 They wanted to arrest Him, but they were afraid of the crowds, who considered Jesus to be a prophet. Matthew 21:45-46

Louder Than Words...

I once watched a video about a high school teacher who was awarded National Teacher of the Year. His name was Guy Dowd. He is a gifted speaker who came from humble means. His stories of students, ranging from middle school years and up, captured and held my attention. Toward the end of the program he recited a speech that I have never forgotten. It’s meaning is so simple, yet so profound. “I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day. I’d rather you walk with me than merely lead the way. The eye is a more ready pupil (student) than ever was the ear. Good advice is often confusing, but example is always clear”. The Christian life, and the Church need to stop trying to be like the world, and start being like Christ. It needs to be unified, standing firm on Christ, the solid rock. There’s no better example of a witness to Christ than when a man aligns what he preaches with his behavior. It send a message out that what he believes is real, and it’s power can change a human heart. Instead of trying to win souls by blending in, be like Jesus, and stand out. People will always be captivated by a man of his word. It’s the most powerful witness. Actions ALWAYS speak louder than words.

28 “But what do you think about this? A man with two sons told the older boy, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’29 The son answered, ‘No, I won’t go,’ but later he changed his mind and went anyway.30 Then the father told the other son, ‘You go,’ and he said, ‘Yes, sir, I will.’ But he didn’t go.31 “Which of the two obeyed his father?”They replied, “The first.”Then Jesus explained His meaning: “I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do. 32 For John the Baptist came and showed you the right way to live, but you didn’t believe him, while tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even when you saw this happening, you refused to believe him and repent of your sins. Matthew 21:28-32

The Problem with Being “PC”...

The problem with being “politically correct” is although you may make an acquaintance, you end up going no where. The path of “political correctness” always leads to a dead end. Political correctness never answers the question. Knowing the truth, and yet acting like you don’t, leaves you in the most vulnerable position. You must chose a side. Sitting on the fence leaves you with opposition from both sides and a painful indention on your behind.

23 When Jesus returned to the Temple and began teaching, the leading priests and elders came up to Him. They demanded, “By what authority are You doing all these things? Who gave You the right?”24 “I’ll tell you by what authority I do these things if you answer one question,” Jesus replied. 25 “Did John’s authority to baptize come from heaven, or was it merely human?”They talked it over among themselves. “If we say it was from heaven, He will ask us why we didn’t believe John. 26 But if we say it was merely human, we’ll be mobbed because the people believe John was a prophet.” 27 So they finally replied, “We don’t know.”And Jesus responded, “Then I won’t tell you by what authority I do these things. Matthew 21:23-27