Bibledoorajar: New Beginnings

"You can't go back and change the beginning but you can start where you are and change the ending."

       C.S. Lewis

The children of Israel had one more assignment from Moses before he died, They could not go back to Egypt and start over from the redemptive beginning, but they could start over where they were and change their lives. Before God that meant that the warriors were to completely ameliorate their enemy, Midian, who had enticed them into sin. All were to be wiped out, even the women because they had enticed so many of God's men to sleep with them. Moses was extremely angry when the men brought some of them back alive. They were slaughtered outside the camp because the inside was to remain pure before God. If Balaam had shown up to get his reward from the Midian leadership for assisting in the ploy to deceive God's people, his reward was to face death by the sword. The spoils of war that were valuable were cleansed and made useful for the peoples of the Lord. 

We are living in a time when deception is running rampant. People my age are saying, "I never thought I would live to see...." Fill in the blank. It is startling. Christians must be ever vigilant in dealing with any entrapment in their lives and slaying those enemies. God will use the spoils taken from our enemies for our good. We will live in greater peace and rejoice in our freedom in Christ. The word makes it clear whom we war against:

^" For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."  Ephesians 6:12

It sounds like a daunting task and it is easy to think we are losing. But those thoughts can be deceptive because rarely are victories in Christ publicized by the media. Here is some advice from the new Nancy, 2018. Know where the bites are and don't give up. Happy New Year!

By Olivia Jaimes

Bibledoorajar: Vows on the Plains of Moab

     Moses met with the leaders of the tribes and gave them instructions from the Lord about vows. They were to be kept because they were given based on their word. Vows discussed had to do with instructions for both men and women.
     It seems that in the culture of America vows do not mean as much as they used to. Deals are not made with just a vow nowadays, but with reams of legal papers attached so that they can be presented to the courts of justice when one goes back on their vow. Divorce courts are full of broken vows. But the truth is, even after Moses discussed the importance of vows, God still had to raise up judges to settle disputes about broken vows. Men looked for a way to make things right, or if not right, different. Settled.
     But there is one Vow that was made in eternity past and God never veered to the right or to the left on it. Jesus never broke His vow that He would come to earth and take on the sins of the humans who break vows right and left.
     In 1863 Henry Wadsworth wrote a poem entitled Christmas Bells. Later someone turned it into my favorite Christmas carol.

I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play
And mild and sweet their songs repeat
Of peace on earth good will to men

And the bells are ringing (peace on earth)
Like a choir they're singing (peace on earth)
In my heart I hear them (peace on earth)
Peace on earth, good will to men

And in despair I bowed my head
There is no peace on earth I said
For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men

But the bells are ringing (peace on earth)
Like a choir singing (peace on earth)
Does anybody hear them? (peace on earth)
Peace on earth, good will to men

Then rang the bells more loud and deep
God is not dead, nor does he sleep (peace on earth, peace on earth)
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace… 

God is not dead nor does He sleep. He keeps His vows. Settled!

Bibledoorajar: Leadership Change on the Plains of Moab

On the plains of Moab in the midst of all the goings on, God told Moses to go up and take a look at the Promised Land because he was not going to be able to enter it.  God had decided it was his time for his ministry to end and to enter into death. Before he died, Moses asked God to raise up a leader who could successfully lead the people into the land.
     "So the Lord said to Moses, 'Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit of leadership, and lay your hand on him.  Have him stand before Eleazar the priest and the entire assembly and commission him in their presence.  Give him some of your authority so the whole Israelite community will obey him.  He is to stand before Eleazar the priest, who will obtain decisions for him by inquiring of the Urim before the Lord. At his command he and the entire community of the Israelites will go out, and at his command they will come in.^' Moses did as the Lord commanded him. He took Joshua and had him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole assembly.  Then he laid his hands on him and commissioned him, as the Lord instructed through Moses."(Numbers 27)

      God had a plan for who would succeed Moses. He always does. Many years later after God had spoken through leaders in sundries of ways, He appointed His Son to come to earth and commissioned Him to live as a man though divine. He was born to understand the trials, tribulations and and sins of man and yet divine to die to redeem us from all of that. It was and always has been about His love. And later, He allowed Moses to stand in that land with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration.                                 
                            

Love came down at Christmas,

Love all lovely, Love Divine,

Love was born at Christmas,

Star and Angels gave the sign.

Worship we the Godhead,

Love Incarnate, Love Divine,

Worship we our Jesus,

But wherewith for sacred sign?

Love shall be our token,

Love be yours and love be mine,

Love to God and all men,

Love for plea and gift and sign.

         Christina Rossetti penned this poem in the late 1880's. Later God inspired several composers to put it to music. It is still being performed in various compositions to this very day. I like the Jars of Clay version (2007). God always has the next gifted one in line to get the job done. Hope you realize you are gifted to love and serve too!

Bibledoorajar: First on the Plains of Moab

     The first nation of God encamped on the plains of Moab and awaited the command to move into their God assigned land, Israel. It would be a land established with God driven boundaries. Meanwhile the standards surrounding the people numbered four. To the east was the standard of Judah which bore the figure of a lion. To the north was the standard of Dan which bore the figure of an eagle. To the west was the standard of Ephraim which bore the figure of an ox and to the south Reuben which bore the figure of a man. And of course, most importantly of all was the Shekinah glory in their midst in the tabernacle. A Bible reader can find these symbols in other biblical writings such as Ezekiel and Revelation and they are intricately involved to describe the power of God and His involvement with His creation. God's involvement with His creation spans from east to west and north to south.
     The power of God as shown in this first nation would bring forth another first. That of God coming to earth in Bethlehem of Israel. His birth would lead to many more firsts. The first New Testament miracle. The first New Testament healing. The first calling of the disciples by Jesus. The first church meeting. The first time followers were called Christians (at Antioch). The first call to preach the gospel to all the world sharing the love of Jesus. These are among the many firsts that Jesus would
inaugurate.

     These firsts are the real backdrop for the season of Christmas. We can enjoy the fun of the season never forgetting  the Power that moved among men to bring the good news; we can be a part of an Eternal nation and live with our God and Savior. As we await the command to move into that Land, let's determine to allow Him to sanctify and purify our lives. In so doing, we will have a much merrier Christmas and can sing the carols with much joy! 

"In Bethlehem, in Israel
This blessed Babe was born
And laid within a manger
Upon this blessed morn
The which His Mother Mary
Did nothing take in scorn
Oh tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
Oh tidings of comfort and joy."

As Mentioned in A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, 1843

Bibledoorajar: Established on the Plains of Moab

"Establish Your word to Your servant, As that which produces reverence for You."
                                                   Psalm 119:38

     There was a lot to be drawn by every clan leader that would establish the inheritance of their families in the Promised Land. The wording of the lot would speak with authority as from God. His word and His will for each tribe and family would not be objected to. There was an interesting twist in the story of establishing inheritance which had to do with women. Five living daughters had no living father or brothers to be counted in the census. They appealed to Moses that their Omnipotent God would surely have known of their plight and would make a place for them also. On appeal, God told Moses that they were correct. They would inherit.
     Everything that God has done and is doing in our lives pertains to our being established in Him and  becoming worthy of our inheritance. All aspects of how we are established from our birth to our death brings glory to Him. In this way we are His people and worthy of our inheritance. All of us who have followed the Pattern Son in our birth, life and death will be established in our eternal life for we have chosen that which brings reverence to our Father.
     This month we look at the exceptional birth that brought reverence to the Father and that perfected the plan for you and me. He was not conceived in mortal sin but rather was the product of the Father and a virgin woman. His birth was lowly enough that mortal man could recognize glory come to earth. Angels made sure the message included reverence due the Father:

"Glory to God in the Highest,  and on earth peace and goodwill to men."

                                                                             Luke 2:14

     It is my sincere hope that you have personally accepted God's goodwill and inheritance plan. If not, please reassess. The Pattern Son awaits to carry you all the way into your final home.We can all inherit. Glory to God in the Highest!

Bibledoorajar: Shades of Balaam's View

      The children of Israel had now been recounted and had paid the silver ransom to gain coverage from the sin that had led to the plague. Plagues in the Bible are always associated with sin, never anything else. So, it points out how serious the Father was that the children of Israel would appoint themselves just as He had developed and designed. They were redeemed from Egypt but needed added coverage (ransom) when they so terribly and sinfully obviated God's plan to reveal His plan for mankind. Once again, they were clean and organized aright around the tabernacle in just the way to show forth the glory of the coming Messiah. Ready on the East side to lead the way was the tribe of Judah (Praise) which marched under the standard of the Lion. All the tribal standards and emblems showed forth an aspect of the coming Messiah's attributes. As a reminder, when Balaam looked down on this informative formation from the mountain with Balak, he could not help but be amazed at the glory of it. And neither should we because our Jesus came and showed forth all the attributes that God required for our redemption and ransom. Marvelous pictures of our Jesus who has changed not.
      On a trip to Washington D.C. when I was younger, I learned that the Washington Monument was the tallest man made monument in the world. Capped with an aluminum pyramid on top, the whole monument is taller than the pyramids seen in Egypt. I did not learn until years later that on the east side of the Washington monument pyramid top is worded in Latin, God be praised.  Somebody had been reading their Bible! I wish everyone who made a trip to our capitol could really understand the fullness of that message. Look eastward!

 "Keep your lamps all trimmed and burning;
For the Bridegroom watch and wait;
He’ll be with us at the meeting
Just inside the Eastern Gate."

     Isaiah Martin

Bibledoorajar: On the Plains of Moab

     This morning my congregation sang the song Stand up, stand up for Jesus. The song was written in 1858 by George Duffield Jr. He was prompted to write the words following the death of a fellow minister who supposedly told those by his deathbed to continue to stand up for Jesus. We sang the stanza below which alludes to enduring the strife and to seeking the crown of life (inheritance).

"Stand up, stand up for Jesus,
The strife will not be long;
This day the noise of battle,
The next the victor's song.
To those who vanquish evil
A crown of life shall be;
They with the King of Glory
Shall reign eternally".

But there is a stanza that Duffield wrote that is usually omitted in hymnals. It speaks of "each soldier to his post and closing up the broken column; to make good the loss so heavy in those that still remain". He wrote this stanza thinking of his dead fellow minister and how the deceased wanted the work to go on by those that could close ranks and continue to stand up.

     After the plague, God had Moses and Eleazer the priest number the fighting men of Israel. It was time to close the broken columns. Many had died since leaving Egypt and more recently in the plains of Moab following the plague. They were numbered according to their clans and the number reached would not only make clear how many could bear the noise of battle but it would also determine their land inheritance in the Promised Land. The larger the clan the greater apportionment of land.  601730 was the total number reached. It was not that different from where they were 38 years before as they left Egypt.

Bibledoorajar: A New Attitude

     After the "Bael-Peor" matter, God spoke to Moses and told him to develop a new attitude or state of mind among the Israelites toward the Midianites. From now on they were to consider them as enemies because they had lured them into idol worship and lust. It was imperative that the Israelites be convinced of the degree of this evil. For them, it was not to be just a matter of harassment and revenge against the Midianites, but a continuing state of mind that would find their actions hated and despised.
     The apostle Paul in writing to Timothy ( a young man who desired to be a representative of God) encouraged him to "FLEE YOUTHFUL LUST". (2 Timothy 2:22) and to "follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart." ... And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts." He urged this as a constant state of mind so as  not to become trapped in a similar matter as the Israelites were. Temptation is to be viewed as an enemy and the degree of its' evil to be understood realistically. The psalmist put it this way; "Flee as a bird to your mountain, o thou who art weary of sin". (Psalm 22). When temptations come our way we are reminded that we have a mountain where we can continue to worship and serve Him. We serve from a place of strength but the state of mind has to be maintained.

"And though this world, with devils filled,
Should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God hath willed
His truth to triumph through us:
The Prince of Darkness grim,
We tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure,
For lo! his doom is sure,
One little word shall fell him."

Stanza 3, A  Mighty Fortress is our God, Martin Luther

      

   

Bibledoorajar: Take Care

"I'm on my way to Canaan's land, where the soul never dies..."
                                                      William Golden

When the children of Israel disobeyed the demands of the Torah (Law) they were very near to the Promised Land. But choosing acts of lewdness associated with idol worship stopped that near entrance immediately. Instead, death by plague swept through the camp killing all that had been involved in the terrible acts. The fact that God recognized Phineas for fighting back and awarded him a priesthood forever is very instructive for today's believer.

In Colossians 3:17, we see where the apostle Paul instructs the church this way:

"And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father."

All aspects of our public and private worship are to take place as a representative of the Lord Jesus. We are His ambassadors to the world and it is our responsibility to arrive in Canaan Land having brought others with us through appropriate actions here on earth. Having been risen with Him, we seek only those things above. We cannot dare make the mistake that the children of Israel made. There are many "Bael-Peors" in this world and we must take them down one by one by doing all in the name of Jesus. Stay focused.

"A love light beams across the foam,
Where the soul never dies;
It shines to light the shores of home,
Where the soul never dies."

Bibledoorajar: Wrong Yokes

     As the men of Israel became more and more involved with the women of Moab they began to sacrifice to the god, Bael-Peor. Soon they found themselves yoked inappropriately. From God's point of view, this yoking in both respects (women and god) is described as whoring. It may be an old term for today's society, but I think most people understand it, especially if the accusation is hurled in anger. Well, God was a bit angry about the matter too. After all, the whole reason for earth's creation with all its' benefits and comforts was made in order that God might have a family devoted to Him.

     Jesus spoke about being yoked to Him and Him only. He did not do it selfishly. He observed that the religious leaders of the day were placing horrible yokes on the people of God. In Matthew 11:29 Jesus' desire for them to be freed from inappropriate yokes is recorded this way:

"Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (New Living Translation)

     One major key to this passage is the phrase "let me teach you".  Jesus knows  how to teach us in ways of light. Light exposes darkness. Once exposed it can be rejected. Once rejected life is not lost but found. Life goes better. It does not profit a man in the long run to be inappropriately yoked. He exchanges his soul and profits nothing. ( quoted from Jesus as recorded in Matthew)

     We are living in a culture that desires that Christians acknowledge any and all means of whoredom as appropriate activities or ways of life. It takes courage to stand strong and explain our yoke. Many Christians give in and choose to do as the men did with the women of Moab. Today resolve to follow the teaching of Christ. Accept His yoke and His alone.

Bibledoorajar: Let Nature Take It's Course

     After Balaam realized that seeking information for Balak through divinations was only leading to God's interference, he did not seek further divination. He fell into what seems a trance given by God and God revealed what He wanted him to tell Balak. Balak objected, telling Balaam that he had wanted to enrich him for providing an ultimate solution to his power problem, but he only told him of the mighty things God would do both then and in the future.  Finally, Balaam advised that they should both just go home. However, this was not until after he had delivered a subtle message. The message was to let nature take its course. Leave the people alone and they will be attracted to your god, Bael-peor, and will commit immoral acts with your people. And sure enough, that is what happened. And, it did not just happen with the people, it happened among the leadership as well. On one occasion a leader from the tribe of Simeon was seen taking a Midianite woman PAST THE TENT OF MEETING to his tent to engage in forbidden acts. The wrath of God inspired one of the pious priests and he took venegeance by killing the two who were so bold to carry out their acts of unrighteousness before the Living God. This priest, Phineas, was rewarded by God for standing up for righteousness.
      In Bible Class yesterday, we were speaking of how our culture is pressing in on every side to entreat the church of Christ to engage inappropriately in ungodly acts. At minimum, if we do not engage, we are at least being pressured to accept the unrighteous acts as acceptable behavior. The church must remember that we are challenged to purity by God and that he blesses righteousness. It is in Christ that we receive the power to stand strong and the withstand the temptations that come with letting nature take its' course. How great is this power? In Daniel 2:34 it is described this way.
 
 "While you were watching, a rock was cut out, but not by human hands. It struck the statue on its feet of iron and clay and smashed them.  Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver and the gold were all broken to pieces and became like chaff on a threshing floor in the summer. The wind swept them away without leaving a trace. But the rock that struck the statue became a huge mountain and filled the whole earth."

The church is built on this rock and He is great and can lead us all the way home unstained through His blood. Our hope can be built on nothing less.

Bibledoorajar: Acts of Devotion

Balaam, at no expense of his own, had Balak build seven altars for bull and goat sacrifices for him. He then boasted of it as if he had done a great religious thing. 
He seemed to be totally out of touch with the fact that the God approved altar at this point in history rested within the Israelite camp. He then had the audacity to insist that God curse Israel because of the fact that he had carried out such an act of devotion to Him. In fact, he told God that he had built the altars and therefore was assured of God's answer in the way in which Balaam wished. 

God was not impressed with the veracity of Balaam's and Balak's actions but He did use Balaam to deliver the message to Balak that He wished delivered. God was not his debtor and was not beholden to him for sacrifices made without sincerity and devotion to Him.

This reminds us of the story in Luke 18 where the Pharisee went up to the temple and boasted of his religious superiority. His comments reflected an insincere appreciation for what he had in God. He and Balaam were far from what God says he requires, a humble and contrite heart.

"Humble thyself in the sight of the Lord

Humble thyself in the sight of the Lord

And He shall lift you up (higher and higher)

And He shall lift you up"

Lyrics by Bob Hudson

  

BibIedoorajar: I shall see Him, but not now

Before Balaam left to go home, he gave several more prophecies to Balak. By the time he left, Balak would have gotten the Big Picture indeed. Balaam called him aside and said let me advise you on what this God intends to do with this people.The "movie" he narrated for Balak started with God's provision in the wilderness, took in the impending conquest of the land; told of thecoming greatness of God's people over their enemies, and concluded with a view of the Champion of the end of days. One might say it was a panoramic movie! He spoke of the One who would be present in the end:

"I shall see him, but not now, I shall look at him, but it is not near. A star has issued from Jacob and a scepter-bearer has risen from Israel, and he shall pierce the nobles of.......Oh! Who will survive when He imposes these." Numbers 24: 17-23

Most Jewish scholars agree that the star refers to their coming Messiah. Christians agree that the One with this kind of power is surely the Jewish Messiah, our Jesus Christ who came to save the lost and is returning to manage the end of days. Our belief in this is bolstered by His reference to Himself as a fulfillment of Balaam's prophecy. He referred to Himself as the Bright and Morning Star in both Matthew( chapter 2) and again in Revelation. "I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star." (chapter 22).

Bibledoorajar: Who Can Count?

 "Who can count the dust of Jacob, and the number of the fourth part of Israel? Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his!"

Balek had hoped that Balaam would be as frightened at the sight of the sheer numbers of Israelites as he was. And he may have been. But that is not what came out of his mouth. As if being in the know about what God recorded in Genesis 28, he stated that no one could count the dust of Jacob for God Himself had said they would be as the dust for number. When Balaam looked at the formation of the camp of the Israelites, divided into four squadrons, he realized that God's Israel was very great indeed. He announced that Israel, God's people, were truly blessed in life and also in death. Their position in life and death was better than how he evaluated his own and he expressed a desire to live and die as they did.

In the book of Romans, Paul declares that Christians, through the work of Jesus, have been grafted into this vast number and we now have a better life and end than those who are not God's people. This week I have been praying for a sister who will have breast cancer surgery this week. She is of this  dust and her days are in the Lord's will including her end. He declares that when His own cannot do, He will. God bless and help my sister. Amen

Bibledoorajar: It is All In The Motives

     The tug of war between God, Balaam and Balak continued. Balak did not come to where Balaam was camped with Balak's authorities, but he slaughtered animals and sent food for an impressive feast. Balaam was feeling the enticing pressure of Balak's riches and the limiting effects of God's demands. The tension between the two messages to be offered was palatable. One would lead to the destruction of Israel, the other would lead to their ongoing presence in the land. Balak took Balaam up on a mountain where the god Bael was worshipped. From the vantage point of Bael's altar, Balak thought the view would further entice Balaam to put a curse on God's people. From the vantage point,  Balaam could clearly see the people for whom Balak required a curse. But Balak did not understand the ultimate authority of the God of heaven. Balaam did not utter a curse. Out of his mouth instead came a blessing for Israel strengthened by the authority of God.

"Balak summoned me to come from Aram;

    the king of Moab brought me from the eastern hills.

‘Come,’ he said, ‘curse Jacob for me!

    Come and announce Israel’s doom.’

8 But how can I curse those

    whom God has not cursed?

How can I condemn those

    whom the Lord has not condemned?

9 I see them from the cliff tops;

    I watch them from the hills.

I see a people who live by themselves,

    set apart from other nations.

10 Who can count Jacob’s descendants, as numerous as dust?

    Who can count even a fourth of Israel’s people?

Let me die like the righteous;

    let my life end like theirs.”

There continues to be Balaams in the world. Their intense desire is for the destruction of Israel. But instead of this curse prevailing, Israel is a prosperous nation living by themselves set apart from other nations. Thus the will of God  prevails even to this day. God's word says to pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122). I do, do you?

Bibledoorajar: The Message Repeated

          Imagine Balaam sitting on a laid down donkey in between two walls when he looked up and saw the angel of the Lord complete with drawn sword. War had erupted between God's will and Balaam's greed. The message of the angel repeated that of the donkey. The word says:
      "Then the Lord opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the road with his sword drawn. So he bowed low and fell facedown.
      The angel of the Lord asked him, “Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? I have come here to oppose you because your path is a reckless one before me. The donkey saw me and turned away from me these three times. If it had not turned away, I would certainly have killed you by now, but I would have spared it.” Balaam said to the angel of the Lord, “I have sinned. I did not realize you were standing in the road to oppose me. Now if you are displeased, I will go back.”            
       Balaam recognized danger when he saw it. The angel had said he would have certainly killed him by then except for the donkey's movements. Balaam's admitted his sin and agreed to return home if God was displeased.
       Yesterday we were talking in Bible class about how God is already at work ahead of calling us to do a specific task. God is not looking at the same things we look for as we prepare to go for Him and so it is best if we do not decide how things will be. We looked at the passage (Luke 9) where the Lord sent out his disciples to spread the word of the Kingdom. He gave them great power but He told them to leave behind some earthly things that might inhibit what God had already been working on ahead of them. A recently retired school teacher shared this story. She had realized she was not that happy being at home full time and was trying to fill some of her time with substitute teaching. Still she longed for more as she missed those little guys she had taught for so many years. She and her husband made a trip to a nearby town to go to Walmart. Her husband was in the hardware department while she shopped elsewhere. A woman was looking at rope and seemed perplexed as to which to buy. Ray offered to help and they began to talk. Soon the conversation evolved to a) the lady was looking for a retired school teacher to teach kindergarten in a christian school and b) Ray was married to just such a woman. Jeanne was hired and she now works in a school where the emphasis is on the Lord, spirituality and school work. Recently as her group prayed as their preplanning meeting ended, the lady said it was her intent to frame a piece of the "Walmart rope" because God knew all along how He planned for the needs to be met. They needed to remember that. So do we.
   

Bibledoorajar: The Donkey Who Would 't Take the Reckless Path

     Balaam had decided to saddle his donkey, summon his two servants, and join the more numerous and distinguished representatives of Balak for the return to him. The Word says that he was setting out on a reckless path. He urged his donkey forward onto the road. The donkey abruptly stopped on the way and went off the road. Balaam hit the donkey to get him to return to the road. They came to a narrow place in a vineyard with walls on each side. The donkey shied and got so close to the side that Balaam's foot was crushed against the wall. Although the animal had never behaved in such a manner in the past, Balaam hit him again determined to control him. As they went forward the road became so narrow that the donkey could not turn so he laid down in the road.  Balaam was so frustrated and upset and God allowed the donkey to speak. He simply asked Balaam what he had done to justify being beaten three times. Now here is the question. If you knew God had spoken a truth to you about what you should do and your donkey started talking to you would that get your attention? Well, a donkey talking did not get the attention of Balaam. He continued to have a conversation with the donkey berating the animal severely. How he thought that donkey could talk without God miraculously being involved is mind boggling. Finally God opened Balaam's eyes and he saw the angel of the Lord standing with his sword drawn. RECKLESS PATH, BALAAM!!!! EVEN THE DONKEY KNOWS IT!!! God is not in this!
     Yesterday's sermon in part spoke of keeping the eternal in mind as we carry out our everyday efforts. If the everyday effort is right, then it is God's will to be pursued in faith and is a safe path toward eternity. If it is not right (truth), then eternity calls for us to leave that reckless path for God is not in it. It is as if an angel with drawn sword is standing in our way. This gift of God saves us from all manner of frustration if heeded.

"High King of Heaven, my victory won

May I reach Heaven’s joys, O bright Heav’n’s Sun

Heart of my own heart, whate’er befall

Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all"

Be Thou My Vision by Ian Lind

Bibledoorjar: More Numerous and More Distinguished

Balak got the word that Balaam would not come and help him against the Israelites, but he did not give up. He pulled out his biggest and greatest guns. Sending other officials more numerous and distinguished, they came to Balaam and said:

“This is what Balak son of Zippor says: Do not let anything keep you from coming to me, because I will reward you handsomely and do whatever you say. Come and put a curse on these people for me.”
 But Balaam answered them, “Even if Balak gave me all the silver and gold in his palace, I could not do anything great or small to go beyond the command of the Lord my God.  Now spend the night here so that I can find out what else the Lord will tell me.” Numbers 22

Balak knew of his power and the important men under him. He was sure that their status and abilities along with even more riches for Balaam would sway the prophet to come and place a curse on the people. However, what he did not know was that the God of Heaven and Earth was also impressing Balaam and that Balaam knew He had the power to stop him from going. The prestigious men spent the night in order that Balaam might find out if God had anything else to say to him.

That night God came to Balaam and said, “Since these men have come to summon you, go with them, but do only what I tell you.”

However, this was not exactly what Balaam did. Instead of waiting on God to give him further information and/or instructions as to what to say to Balak, he got up the next day and saddled his donkey. He rode out to the awaiting men with two of his servants with him ready for the trip. This made God very angry.

Apparently, it is important to seek God early in the morning after a night of "sleeping on it." Balaam's biggest mistake was not being expectant the next morning and so he moved out on his own awareness. Was God not his God the next morning? Why was he not still waiting on HIs command? Is He still our God after a night of prayer and waiting? Do we arise to seek Him yet again? Let's hope we never forget.

I will seek You in the morning

And I will learn to walk in Your ways

And Step by step You'll lead me

And I will follow You all of my days

Michael W. Smith, Step by Step

Bibledoorajar: Abilities to curse

cursing:

To call down evil upon others violently
A call for evil to rest on someone
Invocation of evil against one’s enemies

Soon after the cliffs moved and the spring rose up and destroyed the Children of Israel's enemy, other leaders began to hear about the victory. One leader was named Balak. He felt so strongly about the threat that he felt he and his armies stood no chance against the Israelites. In a conversation among his people and with the Midianites the threat was put this way:

"This horde is going to lick up everything around us, as an ox licks up the grass of the field.”

In order to keep such a wipe out from happening, Balak felt he had to have the best of help. Although the prophet he had in mind lived a long way from him, he felt it would be absolutely necessary to send for him. He wanted him to put such a curse on the Israelites that they would be rendered useless on the battlefield. A curse such as defined above. The prophet's name was Balaam and Balak sent an envoy with a divination fee to lure him to help. God was aware of Balaam and his ability to curse and He absolutely forbade him to curse His people whom Balak referred to as enemies.

The doctrine of Christ rises above the culture described above. Jesus's doctrine is that we are not only not to curse our enemies but we are to love them and pray for them. It is a take stock situation for most of us. It seems the ability to hate and curse can rise freely within us, but it takes the help of Christ to love and pray for our enemies. There is a children's song that puts it this way:

"Love your enemies!

Even though they hate your guts, ya!

Love your enemies!

Even though they make me cry

Love your enemies!

Even though they hate your guts, ya!

Love your enemies!

Even though they make me cry"
John Mark McMillan

It's a higher call and an ability that calls for supernatural help. But that is exactly what we all need. If Balak had truly known the God of the Israelites, he too, could have had His help. We Christians know the words of Jesus but our challenge is to follow Him and call on Him. Not using our ability to curse is one such example of how He can help us succeed.

Bibledoorajar: How Great is Our God?

     The children of Israel got over their snake bites and marched on. They arrived and encamped in passes in the wilderness facing Moab. What happened there is described in Numbers 21 as having been recorded by poets in the Book of the Wars of Hashem. Specifically, the book records a section about what happened with the rivers of Arnon as God delivered His people from attack. As His people marched along, they were unaware that the Amorites had planned a surprise ambush near the border of Moab. They hid in caves and prepared to push huge borders down on God's people as they passed through unbeknownst of the danger. But then Hashem revealed His powerful abilities that far exceeded the powers of the Amorites and their god. He caused the cliffs filled with the caves to shift and the miraculous well from which He had always given water to His people poured through with great intensity. Soon God's people looked and saw the blood of those crushed coming down toward them and in looking realized the great power and victory of their God. They broke into a song of honor for their God.

     In 2004, Chris Tomlin broke into song and entitled it How Great is Our God. The song won two Dove Awards and is still sung in countless congregations of the Lord in our country.
Tomlin calls the listener to sing with him so all will see how great is our God. It is thrilling and fulfilling to realize that from the time described in Numbers until now, God's people are still singing about how great He is. From here to eternity!

"The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice
He wraps himself in Light, and darkness tries to hide
And trembles at His voice
Trembles at His voice

How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God

Age to age He stands
And time is in His hands
Beginning and the end.........."

Bibledoorajar: Is this the right direction?

     The people now marched in a direction that would take them around Edom as God had earlier stated that they could not bother their kinfolk by going through their land. For the people, this seemed like they were going in circles and their patience wore thin and they began to grumble again. They spoke against Moses and also against God. This was after they had consecrated themselves to God for his provision against Arad and his armies. The content of the grumble had a familiar ring--"Why did you bring us up from Egypt to die in this Wilderness, for there is no food and no water, and our soul is disgusted with the insubstantial food?" By now Moses probably had it memorized. God, too, recognized this refrain and sent fiery serpents. They writhed across the ground and bit the people. Now the people needed Moses but they needed God more. Faithful Moses went to God and God told him to make himself a fiery serpent and place it on a pole or stake and it would be that anyone who was bitten by the serpents could stare at the copper Serpent and live.

This is an interesting story. The cause of the people's destruction was also their source of healing. Today, we can be subject to losing patience with our direction in life. We can feel the burning of the Old Serpent attacks. Or, we can just realize that we are getting older and therefore more limited. God has made a provision for how sin takes us all in a downward cycle. We can look upon His Son, Jesus, who, too, was placed on a pole or stake. In looking in belief, the bites of the Old Serpent are ministered too and we can be eternally healed in the long run. There is help for the woes of this life thanks to God's ability to counter the Old Serpent at every turn. Unfortunately, some folks have sight to look upon the cross but fail to do so. One lady, Fannie Crosby though blind saw the cross clearly and looked upon it often. We know that because she penned the following:

      " Tell of the cross where they nailed Him,

writhing in anguish and pain;

tell of the grave where they laid Him,

tell how He liveth again.

Love in that story so tender,

clearer than ever I see:

stay, let me weep while you whisper,

love paid the ransom for me."

Bibledoorajar: Comparing Old Traits

     As the children marched on they came near to a good place to go through to the Promised Land. However, there was a potential problem. The land they had to go through was Edom and was inhabited by the heirs of Esau. Esau, unlike his brother, Jacob, had been a man of weapons (See Gen, 27:3) and  his destiny was not that he or his peoples would be exiled for a period as did Jacob. Jacob's heirs were to develop as a journeying people of faith living in tents rather than one of dependence on weaponry and fortresses. Moses approached the leaders of Edom and asked for permission to go through their land promising to not use their water or produce. He even recited old history of how his people had been told they would be exiled prior to receiving their land inheritance thinking that this might impress and soften the hearts of the kinfolk. However, years of long engrained traits and feelings arose and the Edomites refused to let them go through. To avoid any trouble with brothers (kinfolk), especially involving weapons, the children of Israel kept marching and finally arrived at the land possessed by the Canaanites.
     At this point the children of Israel surprise us by showing forth appropriate traits for God's people. Instead of grumbling or complaining, they prayed and asked God for success in going through the land. In the meantime, Arad, the Canaanite leader, saw them from afar. Perhaps he remembered the stealth traits of the twelve spies who years before had made it past he and his weapons without notice. At any rate, Arad decided to not wait for the people to get nearer, but instead  took his men with weapons out to attack. But God had heard the prayers of His people asking for help to go through and so Arad failed in his attempt.
     The children of Israel had a great chance to compare the arm of flesh regaled with all its' weaponry to strategy that involved the help of the Lord God of the Universe. In honoring Him with their words of prayer for success they prevailed. John says that we ,too, can prevail in our journey of "going throughs" by boldly approaching the throne of God in prayer accompanied by confidence. He put it this way:

"This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us".  1 John 5:12

Jesus tells us that He is more than willing to help us achieve all things that will bring glory to the Father. These are the traits of a journeying people who love God and trust His help to deal with anything that they are going through. We ever depend on our Protector and Provider. The well known song below is of unknown origin. Perhaps it is a song that anonymously comes from all of our hearts.

"Just a closer walk with Thee

Grant it, Jesus, is my plea

Daily walking close to Thee

Let it be, dear Lord, let it be"

Bibledoorajar: The Rock in the Midst

     As the people kept moving year after year, the doubting spies and those that believed their report faded away in death. Finally, the people came into an area called the Wilderness of Zin. This area of Israel is really magnificent, full of geological shapes and sizes much like the canyons known and admired in America. However, these people supposedly on a faith walk, arrived and saw no trees bearing fruit and found no water for themselves or their animals. With what is now a familiar sound, they complained to Moses and Aaron as to why in the world they were led there. Surely they would die without water. They would have been just as well to die with the others already deceased.
     Moses and Aaron left the people and fell on their faces before God. God came to them and told them to gather the people around a ROCK IN THEIR MIDST. When Moses spoke to the rock by faith it would gush forth with water. His speech was very important to God in this matter. Carrying out the command would show forth obedience and trust in the living God. God's name would be sanctified. But it was a sad day, for Moses struck the rock instead of asking it for its' water. In so doing, he failed to sanctify God's Name. They failed to honor Him and His Provision.
     Years later, Jesus was born and was referred to as Emmanuel. It means God with us or God in our midst. It is a terribly sad thing when men strike out at the ROCK IN OUR MIDST and fail to speak in such a way as to sanctify His Name. God loves our words that worship Him and honor Him, words that believe Him. He says a prayer spoken righteously does much good (See the book of James). Even if He does not like our ideas of how the request should be handled and says no, he still loves us because we have sanctified His name. Therefore, we can continue  to safely "hide" in Him and with amazement He will provide for us.
     In 1775 Augustus Toplady sought to honor God. He was caught up in the great debate of the day between the tenets of Calvin and Wesley. The debate roared so loudly at times that one wonders if God was always honored in the debate. At any rate, it led Augustus to pen a hymn of worship the theology of which he was sure. He wrote ROCK OF AGES and the hymn remains to this day in our midst and sung by men everywhere to honor our Lord. Speak to the Rock with all humility; He will hear you.

  Rock of Ages, cleft for me,

let me hide myself in thee;

let the water and the blood,

from thy wounded side which flowed,

be of sin the double cure;

save from wrath and make me pure.

Bibledoorajar: The Curious Red Heifer

     Following the Korah rebellion, God spent a great deal of time planning for purification from contamination from sin. The sacrifice of the red heifer is curious far more than all the other sacrificial choices (lambs, doves, etc), because it had to be completely perfect. It would give its' life, life blood completely consumed, outside the camp on the Mount of Olives. Two different colored hairs on the animal would disqualify any candidate. Further, it could have never been forced with a yoke, but must give its life without force. Its' ashes would be used in the application against future sins. Nine red heifers were consumed up until the final destruction of the temple.

     These days in Israel, certain Torah compliant Jews are working through the Temple Institute to make ready the implements needed for use in the rebuilding of the Temple. Many believe that this will be needed when the Messiah comes. They are also in search of perfect red heifers because they believe one will be used after His arrival to purify the contaminated peoples (including the Gentiles as in the Old Testament times--see Numbers 19). They are very excited now that President Trump has decreed and moved the American Embassy to Jerusalem.  They see this as a sign that the rebuilding of the temple is coming true, no matter how slowly. Their thoughts have turned away from destruction to renewal and rebirth. This thinking has been increasing since their history turned on Wednesday June 7, 1967 when Jerusalem was recaptured. This, they see as their great destiny their Messiah walks in their midst, a light to the nations.

      But there is another view among Jews who have recognized Jesus as their Messiah and Savior. He, the perfect unblemished sacrifice, died outside the camp. He shed His blood for a once and for all cure from the contamination of sin. Living in the hearts of His people, He already walks as a light among the nations. It was His death that turned history. All believers read Hebrews 9:14 with the realization of His perfect sacrifice that leads to perfect purification.

"....just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit, Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins."

The Jews may be looking at June 7, 2018 historically one way, but I say it is a day to praise God for Jesus who sheds forth the light of HIStory.

Bibledoorajar: God Picks His Man

     After the rebellion and the deaths of over 14,000, God instructed Moses to carry out a procedure to confirm once and for all who was the spiritual leader of the Israelites.  God told Moses to have each leader or prince from every tribe fashion a staff or rod and place his name and tribe on it. Aaron's name was to be placed on the rod from the tribe of Levi. The twelve rods were placed overnight in the tabernacle of the congregation before the testimony, where God met Moses. God further said,  "and it shall come to pass, that the man's rod, whom I shall choose, shall blossom: and I will make to cease from me the murmurings of the children of Israel, whereby they murmur against you." God was tired of the murmuring and He intended for everyone to see His man for the time clearly. So, as commanded,  Moses placed the rods before the Lord in the tabernacle of witness.
     The next day Moses went into the tabernacle of witness, and there for all to see was the rod of Aaron, of the house of Levi, sprouted putting forth buds, producing blossoms and yielding ripe almonds. Moses took the proof to the people. The tell all rod was to be kept before God in the tabernacle of Testimony as a sign. The message was clear: look (Behold!) at the rod and stop the murmuring!! A great fear passed over the children of Israel for they feared they would surely die. But with time the princes of each tribe accepted the validation of the Aaronic priesthood. For that tine and place that priesthood and no other would show forth the glory of the Lord and care for holy things.
     Years later, Isaiah prophesied about another rod or branch. He said it would grow up tender and blossom and bring forth fruit. It would set captives free and bind up the broken hearted. One day, Jesus came on the scene and announced:  "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free"  Luke 4:13.
      In 1961, at a church gathering, a man stood to testify of his conversion experience. He proclaimed "It seemed like Heaven came down and glory filled my soul." John Peterson was listening in the audience and immediately was inspired to write the hymn, Heaven came down and glory filled my soul. Here's the first verse and chorus.

O what a wonderful, wonderful day - day I will never forget;

After I'd wandered in darkness away, Jesus my Saviour I met.

O what a tender, compassionate friend - He met the need of my heart;

Shadows dispelling, With joy I am telling, He made all the darkness depart.

Heaven came down and glory filled my soul,

When at the cross the Saviour made me whole;

My sins were washed away -

And my night was turned to day -

Heaven came down and glory filled my soul!

Bibledoorajar: Looking Again at Moses' Response

      I have been meditating this week on the responses of Moses when his insolent fellowmen cruelly attacked him about his management of leadership roles(specifically Aaron) within the community. According to Numbers 16, Moses first did this before he spoke: "When Moses heard this, he fell facedown"(verse 4).
     The reader is left to reflect on exactly what Moses's motivation was. Was he humiliated after having been so dishonored? Was he getting his justified anger under control since this would be the fourth recent time that God had been defied by the people? Or, was he so taken with the fear of divine displeasure and wrath falling that he prostrated himself in prayer before he spoke? Did he need the wisdom of God to know what to say even though their conduct was so grossly and obviously out of order?
      Whatever we end up thinking about Moses's behavior it is clear that he put himself in a position of humility and repentance. And apparently God gave him the words he needed to say. He essentially put the matter back into the hands of God and the men. They were given an opportunity with a challenge. They were to perform the incense service the next morning and through this service God would speak as to who His holy one was. According to Leviticus 16:13, the incense would be put on the flaming coals "before Jehovah, that the cloud of the incense may cover the mercy-seat that is upon the testimony, that he die not". So the challenge associated with the opportunity was the chance of death and not mercy. If the men resisted there would be no healing. Sadly this was the case.
     When we Christians examine our lives in community it is a good thing to remember Moses facedown. Would we have the Father look at our sins or look at our Savior, our true mercy-seat? The right decision means the healing can begin and life in community can continue as the Father would have it. It is an opportunity with a challenge. The right response can only come from help from above. Facedown might be a good plan.

Elevating Our Own Conceits

In Numbers 16 we find the story of the rebellion led by Korah, Dathan and Abiram. After all the difficulties the people had and with seeing God's reaction to their lack of holy fear and faith, these three still managed to recruit 250 chieftains from the various tribes and to conspire a hostile takeover. They were going to oust Moses and Aaron on the basis that all the children of Israel were holy and therefore Moses and Aaron demanded no less respect than they did. The Bible says that they became insolent. This means their intent was rude and disrespectful. "They came as a group to oppose Moses and Aaron and said to them, 'You have gone too far! The whole community is holy, every one of them, and the LORD is with them. Why then do you set yourselves above the LORD's assembly?" (Numbers 16:3 NIV) Moses did not retort in insolence. Instead he fell to the ground facedown and declared that God would declare who was holy the next morning. And so God did and when the insolent did not repent they and their kin experienced the severity of the Lord. (Read Numbers 16)

The apostle Paul wrote in Romans that we Christians must avoid these jealous insolent feelings. He points out that if God did not spare the natural branches (the children of Israel) then He will surely not spare Christians who elevate their own conceits.  Paul says,  “You stand fast through faith.”. and that faith should be accompanied by awe. It is our only position to avoid the severity of our Father. But from the awe position Paul says we have the privilege of gazing or looking upon the goodness of God, the very Giver of our faith. This gazing or looking can also be thought of as beholding. Or, pay attention!!!  "Behold what manner of love the Father has given unto us" 1st John 3

Bibledoorajar: Belonging to Him

Even after the children of Israel failed to take the Land as God told them to and even after they failed to take it without His help, He still had plans for a future generation to take the land. In planning for that coming time, He required Moses to institute meal offerings and libations that would be brought before Him voluntarily when they came into the land. He also instituted the wearing of fringes called tzitzit on the corners of some of their clothing. The specifically designed additions were so that they would constantly remember Him and constantly remember that they belonged to Him. The word tzitzit means "LOOKING". Gazing upon the tzitzit would spiritually elevate the Israelite to know that each day with God was a quality day. They would know that they were in the Promised Land, a land separate from the rest of the world, and known as the home of God's people. It would be won with the help of the Lord. If you visit Israel today, you will see the tzitzit being worn by the Orthodox Jews who still live by the Law of Moses and live in the land promised by God.

Christians also live in a separate world having won a victory over the spirit that lives in the world. According to 1 John 4:4:

" But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world."

We have overcome the world through our faith in Jesus Christ and His provision for us. (See 1 John 5). The earnest of the Spirit within makes the natural world less appealing everyday for the true Christian. For many of us, we have lived long enough that we are more than ready to have little to do with the world's ways. The man (E.M. Bartlett) who wrote "Come to Jesus, He will save you" also wrote Camping in Canaan Land",  a land where heartaches are exchanged for pleasure. By faith every day, believers are camping in Canaan and 'LOOKING" at its' rapture. Each day is a quality day!
                                                                                               

Bibledoorajar: The Earnest Foretaste

     Two things happened during this period that send a strong message as to God being able to care for His people. First was an important name change. The leader named Hoshea,  the son of Nun, of the tribe of Ephraim, was renamed Joshua  by Moses (Numbers 13:16). Oshea's meaning is a prayer for God to please save; and Joshua's meaning carries a promise of salvation. The spies were now going forth with a man whose name(s) signified first that God hears prayers for salvation and that, more importantly, He will save in answer to that prayer.  Reading through the Word you see this man called by both names from time to time. It tells us how important it is to not just pray for God's help but to believe the promises that He will save and provide. Every spy saw the same things in the land; every spy saw how very fruitful it was. Every spy knew they were with the leader whose names meant Prayer/Promise, Promise/Prayer.
     The second thing that happened is that they brought back a bunch of grapes with them the cluster of which was so big that they had to hang it on a rod and carry it between two men. This grape cluster was an earnest of good things to come.
     In Israel, they make many souvenirs out of olive wood. One of the things I brought back was the men carrying the grape cluster. It is placed in my home to remind me that I, too, have been given an earnest of good things to come. This earnest linked with prayers/promises keeps me focused on the fullness of heaven awaiting me.

"And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory."  Ephesians 1: 13-14

Prayer/Promise; Promise/Prayer: sealed with an earnest---a guarantee. Praise God for the Spirit of Holiness.. I am now going forth with an earnest that God hears my prayers and has promised His provision for kingdom living.

Bibledoorajar: Reluctance to Let the Lord Have the Last Word

     After the failure of faith to believe God to go in and possess the land, the people were dismayed to hear Moses say how upset their God was. Last night I was watching a favorite show on PBS and an elderly character needed to have cataracts removed from her eyes but she was filled with fear at the prospect of surgery. In a conversation with a friend she confessed not her fear but that surely God knew her dilemma and understood her reluctance even though it meant blindness. When gently chided by the friend, the character remarked that she had always spoken with God but she had sometimes been reluctant to quickly let Him have the last word. And, so it was with the people of Israel, they chose not to let the Lord have the last word until....They heard two messages from Moses.  God wanted them to continue their faith walk by  being obedient and that He was not with them at the present time to take the land. However, reluctant to let God have the last word, they made their plans to take the land only to be quickly squashed by the Amorites.
      In Bible class yesterday, we were discussing this very phenomena among Christians today. We were talking specifically about how as a body we are reluctant to quickly follow the guidelines of Christ on handling offenses (Matt. 18). We tend to make a plan for ourselves to deal with it (which is usually not adequate) and our actions usually lead to our getting a swift kick from behind having made matters worse. The teacher of the class pointed out that this was going on in the church at Galatia and the Apostle Paul told them to STOP IT because their view was no longer on eternity. They were choosing to bite and devour the very people they were supposed to love throughout eternity. STOP IT, This is what God wanted (and wants) from Him people. Stop being reluctant to let Him have the last word. He always has our best in mind if we will but yield to Him and His ways. This week I am determined to let God have the last word quickly. It's on my mind.

Bibledoorajar: Surround Us Lord

I just returned from Dallas having taken some of our church youth to the annual Leadership Training for Christ meeting. In today's culture, I am always encouraged by the hundreds of youth who come and participate in various venues to bring glory to God. The theme this year was King of my heart. I loved the theme and I loved this song which was new for me. I hope you identify with the words that follow as much as I did. Listen to the melody on line. It will bless you.

As the mountains surround Jerusalem
so the Lord surrounds his people
as the mountains surround Jerusalem
so the Lord surrounds His people

surround us, Lord
surround us o Lord
we need to be in your presence
surround us Lord

surround us Lord
surround us o Lord
we need to be in your presence
surround us Lord
surround us Lord

  Keith Lancaster and the Acapella Company

Bibledoorajar: Provoking lack of faith in Others

It was a bad situation all round for the children of Israel and their faith in their God, but it was the worst for the ten spies who returned with such a negative report. Not only did they lack faith in God to take the land, but they maliciously provoked the people of God to buy into their report. While Moses was once again able to save the lives of the Israelites with whom God had lost patience, it was immediate death by plague for the ten spies. Distinguished when they left for their foray into the land and dead within hours of promoting their report. For The two spies that believed for and gave a good report would receive wonderful rewards from God. For the people, forty years of wandering in the wilderness; one year for every day of the spying foray. The children of the ten spies lived that time period well aware of their father's sin. And the children of Israel once again had a chance to ponder how God might be their God and mighty help without performing a miracle at every turn.

I have been reflecting on the sin of the ten: PROVOKING LACK OF FAITH IN OTHERS. As I think about this, I have had to make sure of two things. How often do I lack faith in Jesus and do I then provoke others to that same lack? Over time is my faith in Christ in me a source of hope for me and others or do I rob myself and others of hope? At times like this a good worship song usually gets me back on course. And so, let me lift our faith in our God with the lyrics of the following song and remember He is. Always.

        “You’re the God of this city,
         You’re the King of this people,
         You’re the Lord of this nation, You are,
         You’re the light in this darkness,
         You’re the hope to the hopeless,
         You’re the peace to the restless, You are”
                       God of This City by Chris Tomlin

Bibledoorajar: Carnal Sense Versus Divine Voice

In Hebrews 3: 7-8 the Bible says for at least one of three times that believers must not harden their hearts and trust their own carnal sense of things if they have heard the voice of the Lord on a matter. God determined that the Land was ready to be possessed and instructed Moses to lead the people to take it. However, some human reasoning took place and the people told Moses that they thought it would be good if they sent some spies in to reconoiter the land. God told Moses that he could do so if he pleased, but God had to have been disappointed that they did not believe Him from the first. What an insult to put our confidence in the judgement of our fellow humans rather than trust in You.

Moses picked twelve of the most distinguished men from the people. They went in and came back with a report of how good the land was. However, ten of the men despaired that taking it could not be done. Caleb alone expressed the Truth, that they should go up and possess it (just as God had said). Joshua seconded him. Difficulties that were perceived as impediments to possessing the land were overlooked by the two, but the ten felt they did not have what it would take to fight for it (a fight was never asked for by God).

If you are reading this and have heard the voice of the Spirit say come, but you do not yet feel up to the battle then take heart. The battle is the Lords!!!" If He has told you to come in simple belief in His promises then there is no effort on your except to believe. If you are already a part of God's kingdom and He has spoken to you about a matter then you only need to do what He says. The battle is the Lords!

What is the Lord saying to you to believe to do today? Here is what He has asked me to pray about today. God made man male and female but as of to date men with carnal sense have determined 53 gender variations in our societies. The prayer is simple. God help your people know who they are in you believing You instead of carnal interpretations. The challenge---don't peek at the "giants" and remember the battle belongs to the Lord. God still has good things for those who hear His voice.

Bibledoorajar: Miriam Receives the Mercy of Correction

God had cleansed Miriam of her leprosy and she would live, however, He still wanted her to be placed outside the camp for seven days. All who wish to serve God must come to grips with the fact that He alone is in control. It was He who had found and selected Moses for his role as leader of the Israelites. He could carry out that role because of his great humility. It was his new nature to not place himself higher than God intended. For Miriam to have thoughts that her giftings provided by God were more than just what God knew she could carry was a great affront to God. She was placed  outside the camp for a continuing lesson in purity. God was present within the camp and when she returned it would be with the right order of things in mind.The seven days while the camp waited on her to return was a good lesson in service for everyone.

The Bible says that it is a good thing for a Christian to seek giftings from the Lord. But never in comparison to or besting another of His servants, and, never at a greater level than He knows we can humbly carry. We can do nothing without Him and to think more of ourselves is a serious error. We are all on a learning curve but the sooner we settle this question within our spirits the better.


"Now I'm in good condition
With the proper nutrition of love
I'm having sweet meditations
Since I set my affection above
Now I've been realizin
That word harmonizin's the thing
And good success is the natural privilege
Of the blood bought redeemed"
                           David Ingles

Bibledoorajar: God's Help With Evil Speech

"When a person has on the skin of his body a rising or a scab or a bright spot, and it turns into a case of leprous disease on the skin of his body, then he shall be brought to Aaron the priest or to one of his sons the priests,” – Leviticus 13:2

As a woman, I am sorry to say that it was Miriam that was doing the evil talking. But sadly the feminine form of the language substantiates it. And, the leprosy confirms it. And, as it is when we too do it, it emanated from her heart and revealed her hidden motives. God became so very angry because of her contempt for Moses. It was evil in his sight. Can a believer set aside fear of God and His servants as if he is beholden to no one? No, our goodness, our abilities, our all, cannot be a preoccupation for it will surely erupt in some measure of haughtiness.

Scholars tell us that biblical leprosy was linked to evil speaking. Thus, according to the verse above, a spiritual leader had to take a look at the skin to determine the source and disease progress. Action had to be taken swiftly. In Luke 17 there is the account of ten lepers who came to Jesus and asked for help. He told them to go and show themselves to the priests, according to God's requirement. As they went their leprosy turned white and they knew that they were cleansed. The evil had been dealt with by the great High Priest, Jesus.

When Aaron, the priest, looked at his sister he knew that the white scales either meant she was healed  or that she might die. Since he was involved in the sin with her, he asked Moses for help. She would not die from the disease, however, she had to stay without the camp to ensure the disease process was not infectious.

And thus it is for us. If, and when convicted, we call out our evil for what it is and confess it, our Father will forgive us. The evil will have been dealt with supernaturally. And, lastly, it is good for us to remember that believers in community are priests together. As we confess our sins one to another, we are healed according to James. Evil talk is a serious and potentially deadly disease. If not stopped, we can all die spiritually for we will surely alienate ourselves from each other. Thank God He has provided a means of healing for us. Praise Him!

Bibledoorajar: Knowing Your Limitation

One day Miriam and Aaron had one of those conversations that are deadly. They made reference to their brother and his decision to marry a Cushite woman. Somehow the decision on his part to marry the black woman lowered their opinion of him and at the same time elevated their opinion of themselves. It is such a human failing when we make ourselves look better at someone else's expense. It is especially deadly when spiritual giftings are compared. God opposes it swiftly. In the lesson we see that God summoned all three of the leaders to meet with him. God came down in a very present form and immediately confronted Aaron and Miriam in the presence of Moses. He called them forward from Moses separating him alone. He then said to the two:

“Listen to my words: “When there is a prophet among you, I, the LORD, reveal myself to them in visions, I speak to them in dreams.
 But this is not true of my servant Moses; he is faithful in all my house.
 With him I speak face to face, clearly and not in riddles; he sees the form of the LORD. Why then were you not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?”  The anger of the LORD burned against them, and he left them." (Numbers 12)

It appears that the gossip of Miriam and Aaron started out along racist lines but ended up along jealousy lines. Moses had a trait that Miriam and Aaron, though faithful, did not have: humility. It allowed him to be faithful to God in ALL OF GOD'S HOUSE. Moses knew what God desired most of all and therefore he was used as he was leading Israel.  See this valuable trait expressed this way in Psalm 51: 7

"The sacrifice You desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God"

Jesus's parable about the workers is a good reminder for us. He is in charge of how he uses his workers. (Matthew 20) and His authority cannot be questioned.

"Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up."
                                                                                 Song by Benjamin Dube

Bibledoorajar: Eldad and Medad

Moses selected the elders and the Bible says the names were all written down. The seventy men were invited to attend a meal with God on Mount Sinai. It was a time when the covenant given by God to His people would be ratified. The seventy were present but not in as close proximity to God as Moses and the  priests. But a portion of the spirit given to Moses was placed on the elders. It turns out that two men whose names had been written were not present. They were back in the camp. However, the spirit also poured out on them and they prophesied as did the others. The diverse group of elders numbered 70, a number that reflects the perfection and completeness of the covenant of God. To exhort the people with its' truth was the goal intended for them.

Joshua got word that Eldad and Medad were also prophesying in the camp. This seems to have upset Joshua greatly for Moses sake. Perhaps he thought they were faking and therefore were an embarrassment to the holiness of the situation and to their great leader. But Moses words to Joshua were:

 “I wish that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!”

Moses saw it differently. He wished that the power and might of God might spread throughout the whole nation of Israel. He wished that each Israelite might be given the power and might to exhort and edify another. He wished that all Israelites might reflect higher truth. Moses wanted the glory of God manifested as much as possible. Do you realize Christ made this possible?

Actos 2 shows us that Jesus Christ instituted a New Covenant that made this indeed ability possible. The Spirit was poured out on all believers. We are all to bear the word of God to each other and to be a light to the world. The diversity of the believers ensures that greater edification and exhortation takes place, but at its' core we all share a risen Lord who will restore all things as God intends (Acts 3). The New Testament declares that he who can say to another that Jesus is Lord is a prophet. We should all be glad that now all the Eldads and Medads who believe have been given the power. The apostle Paul said that his desire was for all Christians to prophesy. What a great covenant Jesus has brought to us and I say HE IS LORD! How about you?

Moses Gets Help

God heard the plea of Moses for help with the people and gave him specific directions as to how to procure that help. We learned about the selection of 70 elders being selected as the dignitaries who would serve under the leadership of Moses in Exodus 24. These, no doubt, were like unto the "husband respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land which is mentioned in Proverbs 31:23. In Numbers 11, however, we read more about the specificity of God’s call for this particular body of leaders who were to serve with Moses in the wilderness: Though already respected for their roles, it appears that God intended to elevate them to a more spiritual and specific role. He said:  “Bring me seventy of Israel's elders who are known to you as leaders and officials among the people. Have them come to the tent of meeting, that they may stand there with you” (verse 16). The fact that seventy were to be selected indicated that God intended for them to perfectly carry out and complete God's law among the people. To ensure this taking place consistently, power would have to come from somewhere to enhance their natural virtues and talents. The seventy men were to come with Moses to the Tent of Meeting and receive a portion of the spirit which God had previously given Moses. When this happened the men prophesied indicating a special endowment from God had taken place. They did not just have a heightened awareness of how the world handles things, but rather were shown Divine matters and were able to speak with the people from this perspective. His holy ways were the efficacious means of all problem solving and of all proceeding. It must have been wonderful for these men to see the beauty of His holiness and to love and honor Him for who He is.

"As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”

                                                                      Matthew 13

Thank you Holy Spirit for Your impartation of power to understand the beauty and power of His holiness and the productivity it gives our lives. 

Bibledoorajar: Up the Wazoo!

     The book of Numbers records that after the mixed multitude grew greedy and complained that they needed an easier life,  the people of Israel renewed their weeping and said if only they had meat to eat! Then they recalled that the fish they used to eat in Egypt had cost them nothing (uh, bondage, duh?) and now they had nothing to look at but Manna (a miracle!).
      Both God and Moses heard the weeping and both were displeased in their own way. Moses wondered why God was treating him so badly in that he had given him a people to lead that did not want to be led. He asked God if he had lost favor since he had had nothing to do with their conception, infant hood, or their becoming the inheritance of their ancestors. Where in the world would he get meat for those people whose requests for him to provide it went on and on and on? He then requested mercy from God that he would not have to go on carrying this burden alone. God provided a plan to help relieve His servant, Moses, by allowing him to select elders to help him. And as for the people, they would have meat. Up the wazoo!!!! Moses told the people that they would not eat meat one day but a whole month! That is, if they would consecrate themselves anew to their God. They were, after all, still His people.

Consecration:  to make holy or to dedicate to a higher sacred purpose.

God knew that His people could not continue on to the Promised Land with steadfastness if they had not consecrated themselves anew to His higher way of life and purpose. Where would they get the power to do so? Therein is a message for those of us who call ourselves His people today. If all we have to look at day after day is the Bible (our Manna- miracle) without consecration, our steadfastness runs the peril of spiraling down to complaints and desires to give up. Or worse yet, take on greedy thoughts which the apostle Paul classifies as a form of idolatry. If that happens we run the risk of missing this:

 "There are depths of love that I yet may know

  Ere Thee face to face I see;

There are heights of joy that I yet may reach

  Ere I rest in peace with Thee."
Getting Personal with Fanny Crosby, 1874

Bibledoorajar: Power Vs. Greed

      At last the Lord had the people organized to move out dependent on Him. Scholars see the exact way that Judah moved them out differently(whether abreast or in single file). The book of Numbers simply says that they moved forward following the Ark under the Cloud. As they prepared to move, those mixed multitudes that had left Egypt with them were allowed to move toward the Promised Land as a part of the Nation as long as they wanted to be included and followed the Lord's commands. A prominent outsider still with the group was the father-in-law of Moses whose name was Jethro or as referred to in Numbers 10 as Hovav. Moses wanted him to go with the group and perhaps be a help to them as they were going to be camping in the desert. Scholars say they were three days away from the Promised Land at the time. When the Ark started forward and the Cloud was over them, Moses said:
"Arise, Lord! May your enemies be scattered! Let those who hate you flee before you!"
When the Ark stopped, Moses said:
"Return Lord of the many, many thousands of Israel!"
      It is a beautiful story of depending on God until reality hit and the people started complaining to the Lord about the hardships of group travel. The mixed multitude that the Lord had accepted began to miss a better life---- one that might be said to be easier but greedier. Their ingratitude made the Lord so angry that fire erupted around the outskirts of the camp. The people cried to Moses and he prayed. God allowed the fire to go out, but in order that the lesson be remembered, the place was called "burning".
      For a year I lived with and travelled with a missions group. We were from different cultures from all over the world. We all had chores and the chores were sometimes monotonous. And when assignments were made by leadership comparisons were sometimes made among the group. Some people on the outskirts began to complain and the next thing we knew we were all sitting under trees meditating on Proverbs that considered the shame of sluggards and praise for hard working ants!
       Proverbs 1:19 says, "So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain. It takes away the life of its owners". Does this sound like "burning"? Do we ruin our lives because we get greedy? Jesus said that if we kept our view on the power within and His leadership, it would be best if we : "don't worry about your life---what you will eat or drink, or about your body---what you will wear. Isn't life more than food and the body more than clothing?" (Matthew 6) At the root of our greed is a sense of feeling deprived in some way. I think that is what upsets God so much; the thought that He would purposefully deprive His own. Take note self.
   

Bibledoorajar: The Power Within

     On the South was the encampment led by the tribe of Reuben, then Gad and then Simeon and they were to embark second. To the West was the tribe of Ephraim, then Manasseh and Benjamin who would move out third. And lastly moving out from the North was Dan, then Asher and Napthali. Within these surrounding tribal formations were the protectors of the Sanctuary and the servants of the priests (Levites). God spoke to Moses and told him to bring the tribe of Levi and have them stand before the High Priest whom they were to serve. They were to be sure that any and all things related to the service of the Tabernacle were performed properly. They also had many responsibilities detailed to perform when it was time to move. Holy things not handled properly could present problems. For instance, as an example, there had to be a means to perpetuate the continual burnt offering that could never go out. The holiest items were handled by the Kohathites, then the next holiest by the Gershonites and the least holy items were carried by the Mararites. The Levite families encamped around the Tabernacle on the West, South and North sides while the East side was the dwelling place of Aaron, Moses and their families.
     I live in a state where many people love to line dance. These " boot and scoot" lines attempt to dance synchronized steps in a straight line. Contact or relating to the person next to you is not required to have fun. The goal is to synchronize. I learned in Israel that the line dance would never work among the religious Jews. There, they link arms and dance in an unbroken circle. This unbroken circle recognizes the fact that Supernatural Power comes from within the circle just as it did with the Ark within the emcampment formation. The Jewish dancers we watched found joy in the Lord and in one another as they danced in unity before Him. As we Christians joined them in the dance there was a great joy and a sense of the miraculousness of it all.
     God works best through encircled people who sense the Power within that ensures justice for all. Those in the circle are challenged by God's laws, the keeping of which leads to blessings and supernatural protection. It was the duty of the Children of Israel to move in unity and when they did it well it brought them delight. And nothing is more delightful today than to come together with other Christians doing what is required but knowing it is what we want to do. It is both good and pleasant!

  " Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! 

David--Psalms 133