Genesis 30:1-31:16 + Matthew 10:1-23 + Psalm 12:1-8 + Proverbs 3:13-15
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Old Testament – Today’s Genesis chapter 30 readings bring us the account of several of Jacob’s sons and a daughter being born to Leah, Bilhah, Zilpah, and Rachel. We also read about Jacob gaining wealth and wanting to leave his father-in-law Laban’s house to go back home in Genesis chapter 30. In verse 37 we read: “Now Jacob took fresh shoots from poplar, almond, and plane trees and peeled off strips of the bark to make white streaks on them.” It seems in this verse and the ones that follow that Jacob is getting a bit superstitious – and not really asking God for help. Later Jacob does admit that God did do the work of increasing his wealth, and that he didn’t do it on his own with his superstitions, as we see in Chapter 31 verse 9 when Jacob is speaking to his wives Rachel & Leah: “In this way, God has made me wealthy at your father’s expense.” I think it’s great to see that Jacob starts to realize more and more that God is in control. I wonder for us, today, do we sometimes act like Jacob with the sticks – and rely on superstition or our own power, when we should be relying solely on God? Are there maybe areas in our work life or personal life where we think we are running the show? Are we really? Or is God? Will we let our superstitions go, and embrace the reality that God is in control? And – who better is there to be in control, really? 🙂 Actually – I’ll share with you a quote someone shared with me once when I was really trying to micromanage a situation – and was worrying and fretting way too much about the situation. The quote is simply this: “Let go and Let God.” Let us let go of what we are hanging on so tightly to if it is not of God – and let us instead let God run the show. Are there areas in your life where you need to “Let go and let God”? Below is a painting by Spanish painter Jusepe de Ribera from the year 1632 of “Jacob and Laban’s Flock”:
Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Genesis chapter 30 titled “The Battle of the Brides” is at this link and commentary on chapter 31 titled “Jacob gets Laban’s Goat” is at this link.
New Testament – In Matthew chapter 10 Jesus sends out the twelve disciples! Verse 7 stands out: “Jesus sent the twelve disciples out with these instructions: “Don’t go to the Gentiles or the Samaritans, but only to the people of Israel–God’s lost sheep.” Gentiles are anyone who is not a Jew. Samaritans are a race that resulted in intermarriage between Jews and Gentiles after the Old Testament exiles and captivities – as we see in 2 Kings 17:24 – “The king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath and Sepharvaim and settled them in the towns of Samaria to replace the Israelites. They took over Samaria and lived in its towns.” The Matthew 10 verse 7 above does indicate that Jesus’ disciple’s ministry was first to the Jews, but soon thereafter the ministry and the gospel message clearly was for all people. As we see in Acts 10:34-35 – “Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right.” And certainly as we see in the Great Commission at the end of Matthew, in chapter 28 verses 19 & 20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Below is a Spanish wood panel painting by an unknown artist from the early 12th century of Jesus and the twelve disciples:
One interesting note on the listing of names of the 12 disciples in Matthew. Peter is listed first and Judas Iscariot last. We’ll read various listings of the 12 disciples throughout the New Testament. And numbers 2 through 11 always vary in order of how the disciples are listed. But in all of the listings, Peter is first. And Judas Iscariot is always listed last. Below is a painting titled ” The Sending of the Twelve” by Duccio di Buoninsegna from the early 14th century – (looks to me like Duccio only painted in 11 here… )
Matthew 10 verse 16 stands out: “”Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. Be as wary as snakes and harmless as doves.” This is good advice for us today as well. Jesus is still sending us out today as his followers. And I do think this teaching is wise – for us to be wary and harmless at the same time. It’s an interesting line to walk, but I believe a very wise one. I believe the only way to really walk this line well is through the blessing of the Holy Spirit. I don’t think we can do it on our own…
Psalms – Psalm 12 verses 1 & 2 are intriguing verses for me – “Help, O LORD, for the godly are fast disappearing! The faithful have vanished from the earth! Neighbors lie to each other, speaking with flattering lips and insincere hearts.” Are there days when you feel like this? I think there are some days when I do… but not too many. I guess I sometimes wonder about the state of my heart – or if I’ve gotten enough sleep the night before 🙂 – when I feel like this Psalmist does. It is interesting how this verse goes into people talking with “flattering lips and insincere hearts”. I do notice right away when that’s happening… particularly the insincerity. Maybe this is something we should ask of ourselves – do we talk at times with flattering lips or insincere hearts? Or are we sincere people? I like that thought… being a sincere person. I pray that we all are and can become more and more “sincere” in our dealings with each other and that we would just simply be sincere people. Are you a sincere person? Do you want to be sincere? Was Jesus a sincere person?
Proverbs – Proverbs 3:13-15 are amazing truths for each of us to learn! I think these Proverbs are so different from what our world often preaches… “Happy is the person who finds wisdom and gains understanding. For the profit of wisdom is better than silver, and her wages are better than gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.” Where are your true wages coming from in our life? Wisdom or money? Are you investing in things eternal – or things material? Which will give you ultimately a better return on investment? Do you believe that wisdom = happiness? Are you happy?
Worship Video: Today’s readings reminded me of Lincoln Brewster’s song, “Everlasting God:”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gT0UodmNhKk
Do you know our Everlasting God? Click here to know Him forevermore!
Please join me in memorizing and meditating on three verses of Scripture today: “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.” Proverbs 3:13-15 TNIV
Prayer Point: Pray for wisdom in your life. Pray that you would value wisdom much much more than money. Pray for wisdom in your family life.
Comments from You and Questions of the Day: Just curious if anyone has any Biblical fiction books that you might be willing to recommend? Sometimes I find Biblical fiction books can augment our imaginations and understanding of our readings in the Bible. Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings? Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!
God bless,
Mike
p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.
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BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
======= Betty:
Is it just me or am I the only one who finds today’s reading in Genesis funny. A period of years is covered in these few verses and Jacob is being sent from one woman to the next, probably without much complaint from him. Anyway, this soap opera could have gone on and on except God “remembered RAchel’s plight and answered her prayers.” How faithful God is, even when we think the answer is “no.” Certainly, God executes his plans in his time for his divine purposes. So the lesson is that we keep on going no matter the disappointment or hardship. God never forgets us and provides at just the appointed time.
Also, just to concur… Francine Rivers’ “Redeeming Love” was completely captivating. I couldn’t put it down and her writing gave real texture to the story of Hosea. I highly recommend it.
Just an additional thought about RAchel. She probably stopped praying a long time ago for a child, but God remembered and answered His “yes” even though she felt and experienced God’s “no” for a season. Brings to mind a time when someone in my family wanted a baby, too and for years and years nothing happened. Then when she and her husband made the decision to adopt and go through the red tape of it, God “remembered” and she became pregnant. Yes, God is faithful. His “no” today could be a “yes” tomorrow.
Betty
======= Ramona:
Genesis 30:1-31:16
Betty, I too think today’s Old Testament reading is not only funny, but also shows us how human nature is the same yesterday and today. And boy or boy isn’t Jacob a wimp! And the goings on between Leah and Rachael, with a dash of two hand-maidens would probably fill up a years worth of programming for Jerry Springer, Oprah and Judge Judy, something for everyone. I think the reason we find this episode funny is that we recognize their behavior in either ourselves or other folk that shall remain nameless to protect the innocent and the guilty. Woman for ages have been trying to secure the love, affection and support of a man by way of children. It did not work then and it sure aint’ working today.
On my first read-though this morning I had wanted to post up about Jacob and how exemplary of husband he was, taking responsibility for his actions, NOT! But, when I read this through a second, then a third time something else caught my eye that totally sobered my train of thought. Both Rachael and Leah were bitter about how they were married off. The writer of Proverbs stats in the 30th chapter that there are four things that make the earth tremble, one is an unloved woman when she marries or an unloved married woman [Prov. 30 21-23 (depends on the translation)]. So you have a woman that was given as a “Booby” prize by her father (who wants to be second choice, you have another woman who was the first choice but became the second choice in the marriage ceremony. She did not even get a party. Neither were happy campers and resented what their father did. This is documented by the last couple of verses in today’s passage:
14Rachel and Leah said, “That’s fine with us! There is nothing for us here–none of our father’s wealth will come to us anyway. 15He has reduced our rights to those of foreign women. He sold us, and what he received for us has disappeared. 16The riches God has given you from our father are legally ours and our children’s to begin with. So go ahead and do whatever God has told you.”
There father had sold them for his benefit. Abraham and Isaac had offered up their wives out of a perceived fear that a ruling king would desire them for their beauty and kill them. Although not as overt as Abraham and Isaac, Laban married off his daughters in a sale that benefited him financially, what a lovely man. Unlike us, God gave His Son to bring us back to Him. We have this tendency to give up the ones we proclaim we love to benefit self. God love, so He gives. We lust so we can get. Love desire to benefit others at the expense of self. Lust desires to benefit self at the expense of others.
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======= John:
An interesting exercise is whenever you see “wisdom” in Proverbs – replace it with “Jesus”.
Don’t get caught up in the feminine pronouns attached to “wisdom”. Biblical Hebrew automatically gave a “role or an attribute” a feminine gender. Jesus incarnate would not have that feminine gender but when you replace “wisdom” with “Jesus” also change the pronouns to masculine equivalents.
Later on in Proverbs 8 it is a thrilling read when you do this substitution.
John
====== Chip:
Actually, I think a better substitution for “wisdom” (especially in Proverbs 8) is “Spirit”…
Chip
======= Ramona:
John-There are two or three other verses that can be used to support your replacing Jesus with the word Wisdom. In fact the Amplified translators capitalize the word wisdom throughout Proverbs (See the notes written after the first chapter of Proverbs in an Amplified bible) because of what the Apostle Paul wrote in the 1st chapter of 1st Corinthians.
But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men… But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
(1 Corinthians 1:24, 30 KJV)
And also here:
That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
(Colossians 2:2-3 KJVR)
If you go to Biblegateway.com you and pull up chapter one of Proverbs in the Amplified version you can click on verse two’s placement note, or scroll down to the end of the chapter, and you will see this as well (also found in the hardcopy or paperback Amplified as I stated previously)
Here is what that note says:
Proverbs 1:2 A key term in the book of Proverbs, “Wisdom” is capitalized throughout, as God’s design for living and as a reminder of Christ, Whom the apostle Paul calls “the wisdom of God… in Whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge”
But the bottom line is no matter how you read, replacing wisdom with Jesus or not, it, Proverbs, still is a great read and contains wonderful principals to incorporate into one’s core values. In fact, I have concluded that Proverbs is the first written book of Profiling, like the F.B.I. (Federal Bureau of Investigation-USA) has an office that exclusively profiles a heinous crime’s perpetrator so to better aid in their capture, Proverbs was first.
Ramona
p.s. Oops, I didn’t read John’s last paragraph when I made my support of his replacing wisdom with Jesus. Note to myself, “Must read everything!”
======= Luch:
Regarding books like The REd Tent. I have just purchased the book “Christ is Lord” by Anne Rice, the ‘vampire’novelist who has converted to Christ via the Catholic church. The book is a fictitious look at life through the eyes of a 9 year old Jesus. She has done a superb job (I think) of giving lots of historical and cultural background. The book is worth the $35 (canadian) price tag just for her ‘author’s note’ at the end of the book where she tells her spiritual journey. She comes out very strong on the conservative perspective of the New Testament accounts.
I think it would be a good book to use in a secular reading club and open up conversation, much like the Da Vinci code has done. Although errant on many many points I have had some good conversations with ‘lost people’who are really asking questions.
Luch
======= Londa:
OOO – my favorite type of reading – Biblically based fiction. There is Francing Rivers – Redeeming Love – which is the story of Hosea – in the ‘west’. Her first trilogy is also amazing! Then there is a group by a couple: Thoene – which lit a fire in my for the disabled. I will try to get exact titles – I have them loaned out, or they are back in the church library.
Londa
======= Caryn:
Francine Rivers has written a number of Biblical fiction books. It’s not exactly a new publication, but I loved “Redeeming Love” – the story of Hosea but in a more modern setting. My copy has been circulating amongst friends and friends’ friends for about 2 years now!
I loved her “Mark of the Lion” trilogy even more (A Voice in the Wind, An Echo in the Darkness, As Sure as the Dawn). This follows the story of a Jewish Christian slave, and was inspirational. It gave me lots of insight into New Testament locations and practices in the generation after Jesus and disciples. Mike, I can relate to what you say about this enhancing Bible reading.
Caryn
======= Roslyn:
Mike,
I sincerely thank you for the beautiful effort that you’re putting into the commentaries. It’s great reading for me! Putting together your thoughts and the visuals (paintings)is truly extraordinary. Art and scripture together and some recommended books to read, plus some links—-what more could we ask for in exapnding our understanding of God’s Word?
In the last year or so,I’ve always started my day with reading the bible and now I’m even more inspired to do so. I also like the fact that you pose some practical challenge questions for all of us—it puts what we read in perspective and in eveyday practical terms.
Living the Word should lead us all into a sincere and deep transformation of our hearts and makes us the wiser…Indeed, wisdom equals happiness!!! I couldn’t agree more.
Last May, my sister-in-law gave me a great book for my birthday “Women of the Bible” by Ann Spangler and Jean Syswerda. It has enriched my understanding of some of the women in the bible, and introduced me to several that I’ve never encountered before. It is a great addition to our daily scripture reading and reflection. In fact, I go back to reading about the women that are mentioned in our daily readings.
Again, thanks for the spiritual guidance and for sharing your gifts with us!
Roslyn
======= Kitty:
Amen to Roslyn…reading your blog really helps me with the daily readings. thanks a lot Mike.
Kitty
======= Barb:
I too loved Francine Rivers “Redeeming Love”
Not historical.. but Frank Paretti is a good read also.
Barb
======= Jen:
I have been meaning to read that book for sometime
thanks for the drawing of the flowers I did wonder what they may look like as they are described as love flowers
that is interesting that its always Peter that is named 1st. I can understand why Judas would be named last but I never throught about Peter always being 1st before.
One of the lines I read today brought back the time when I had to share my testimony. I was really nervous but like the line said “The Spirit from your Father will tell you what to say” I got this peace wash over me and it was awesome I found it all just came out about how I found the Lord.
Jen
======= Anka:
Francine Rivers’ Redeeming Love and Mark of the Lion are books I’d read again and again…I gave them to my mum to read as well kinda hoping it would stir something in her but I’m still hoping against hope.
I also found part of the OT reading funny….Leah telling Jacob she hired him for the night!!It was also quite sad to see the two sisters bickering over Jacob,involving the kids in the row as well.It also occured to me that the children of the maids were also counted later as being part of Israel.Abraham’s inheritance was only for Isaac,even though he had other children he clearly set Isaac above them all.
Again and again we see how Jacob relied on superstition,craftiness to aquire wealth….Yet God’s will was still done…Thank God that He works His will in us,inspite of our weakness.
God bless you all
Anka
======= Micah Girl:
Another good fiction book based loosely on a biblical text is the contemporary retelling of the Book of Ruth by Bret Lott (brilliant writer!)called A Song I Knew By Heart. It won’t give you the historical details of bible times of course, but the gist of the story is similar.
Micah Girl
======= Laura:
Last year I read Red Tent and found it disappointing. It didn’t honor God in many ways. It was almost “pornographic.” You may argue that the Bible certainly has its “seedier” passages, but I think the author elaborated on these passages. I don’t think her end objective was to honor God or to show His love to the readers. I am not intending to start a discussion, or wanting to hear others defend this book. I would just like to say that this book did bother me. I forced myself to finish it and would never recommend it to any Christian. There are a lot of Christian writers who do make the Bible come alive.
Francine Rivers has been mentioned. She has a whole series of novellas about Old Testament men and women. The Thoenes have a series focusing on the New Testament. I would suggest you give them a try. Thanks for listening,
Laura
======= Cheryl:
Orson Scott Card has also written books about women in the Bible- one about Sarah and one about eiter Rebekah or Rachel-read them so long ago I can’t remember which. The one about Sarah was very interesting. I’ve also read a great book about Esther-lent it out so I’ll have to find out who the author is but it follows the biblical book very closely. I think the point here is these are essentially works of fiction. They can enhance our understanding of those times and events but we can’t take them literally-we can take the Bible literally. It’s the same way with sermons-it’s just the preachers view. Even if based on alot of research and going back to original texts, it’s still just his take on the readings. We have to pray to God for His guidance to get our own “take” on what we read.
Cheryl
======= Mae:
Okay … reading Genesis made me confused. I defenitly need some help there … Rachel and Leah are soooooo determened to have children from Jacob. Leah gave Jacob children and then when she couldn’t get pregnant anymore she let Jacbo sleep with her maid. Rachel had Jacob sleep with her maid from the beginning. To me they both were just so jealous at eachother that they had Jacob sleep with their maids. But then … God gave them both a child. I thought having children was a blessing? So was it a good thing that both Rachel and Leah wanted children from Jacob so badly that they gave them their maids to sleep with? I’m so lost in this!
Verses that stood out for me in Matthew:
7.) Go and announce to them that the Kingdom of Heaven is near.
20.) For it is not you who will be speaking—it will be the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
Makes me think about yesterday, when I was on the streets of my city. Telling people about the Kingdom of Heaven, asking them if they know Jesus Christ. It was an awesome afternoon, you guys!!!!! Such a blessing!!! We had a couple of people to make a decision, well, not me, but other brothers and sisters. Amen! I talked to some people from East Europe, and you know what? They came to church last night! We had a band playing and they stayed for an hour! I was so happy to see them!!!!!!!!! While they were sitting there, they called up some other relatives and they came to! I was so excited to see that! And ineed, the Spirit of our Father spoke through me yesterday, I could feel it! And bringing those people to church was a way to let me know that He was thankful for the things I’ve been doing for Him!
Psalm 12:5 stood out for me “The Lord replies, “I have seen violence done to the helpless,
and I have heard the groans of the poor.
Now I will rise up to rescue them,
as they have longed for me to do.”
And also Proverbs 3:13 “Joyful is the person who finds wisdom,
the one who gains understanding”.
Mae
======= Ann:
Wow, this is my first visit to your One-Year-Bible companion blog, and I’m quite impressed. Thanks for your thoughts, time and creativity. Those visual additions certainly add a fascinating dimension. That mandrake almost made me blush.
Although I haven’t read it yet, I’m looking at my copy of _Thorn in My Heart_, by Liz Curtis Higgs, which is an historical novel set in 1700s Scotland, but based on the story of Leah and Rachel.
Perhaps someone else has read it and can report on its strengths and weaknesses? Otherwise, it’s on my reading stack and I can let you know what my impressions are once I’m finished.
Ann
======= Ramona:
Old Testament Hit and Run
I’m superior, you’re inferior
I’m the big attraction, you’re the small
I’m the major one, you’re the minor one
I can beat you shootin’, that’s not all
Anything you can do, I can do better
I can do any thing better than you
No you can’t, Yes I can, No you can’t, Yes I can
No you can’t, Yes I can, yes I can
The Song Title: Anything You can Do I Can Do Better by Irving Berlin from the Musical, Annie Get Your Gun, sums up the jealous struggle between Rachael and Leah. Leah was Jacob’s Booby Prize unloved and unwanted. When we look at what was going on between these two sisters and Jacob’s lack of leadership in this situation, we usually don’t take into consideration what effect this had on their children. All choices have consequences and we will have to serve the choices we make, and so will our children and spouses. Jacob allowed two warring women to direct his life, how pitiful.
I was going to by pass this reading in the O.T. because my focus this year is on the New; however, I think if we study these two women, and how their children turned out we can learn some valuable lessons. As what is done today and back in “the day” women have been using their sexuality and their children, or giving birth to a man’s children as a unsuccessful means to gain the affections of a man. It didn’t work then and it sho’nuff (sure enough) ain’t working today.
Beware a “spoiler” is coming up. When women fight for a man’s affections using the children they give birth to was weapons, the children suffer. No matter how small the kids are they know something is up. Rubin, who would latter sleep with Bilhah, Rachel’s maidservant and co-wife to Jacob, was the one, the oldest son, who brought the Mandrake roots to his mother, Leah. (Gen. 35:22) Since there is not a timeline given in today’s reading, nor do we know the ages of the children, I am curious to know the age of Rubin when he found the Mandrakes. Did he know their “magical” purposes as a purported aphrodisiac and fertility plant? Mandrakes also contain anesthetic properties where they used like the “date rape” drugs rendering your intended victim unconscious. I digress. If these women used their children as a means and a weapon to lure their shared husband to bed, then one could see how Rubin might have no boundaries or barriers to stop him from sleeping with one of his father’s wives. When one is taught that the value of a person is only in what they can do for you or from what you can get, then anything and everything becomes a commodity to be traded on the open market.
Just something to think about. Boy, this was more than a “Hit and Run.” This was more like a “Hit” and stick around for the police and ambulance to show up.
Matthew 10:1-23
Jesus called His twelve disciples together … Here are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (also called Peter), then Andrew (Peter’s brother), James (son of Zebedee), John (James’s brother), (Matthew 10:1-2 NLT)
Hmmm, apostles are disciples but being a disciple does not make you an apostle. According to Mr. Strong, the Hebrew word translated disciple and the word-translated apostle are not one and the same.
Disciple: (Strong’s Number: 3101)
μαθητής
mathētēs
math-ay-tes’
; a learner, that is, pupil: – disciple.
Apostle: (Strong’s Number 652)
ἀπόστολος
apostolos
ap-os’-tol-os
a delegate; specifically an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ (“apostle”), (with miraculous powers): – apostle, messenger, he that is sent.
Now in the text it states that the disciples were given power and the sending out either made them Apostles or they were appointed Apostles then sent out. Whichever way you look at it, to me the powers were given them as disciples before they were apostles.. Just like you warn new drivers, especially young new drivers to be careful because the car can be both a means for good, transportation and a weapon to run someone down, Jesus warned His “Disciples” to handle the power He had just given them carefully.
Recently I heard from a secular source, a man who studied business that had began as good organizations but moved on to being great; discipline (the word disciple is in discipline) was what all of the founders of these business that moved from good to greatness had. However the discipline they had was not what we usually think of, having a well-written and defined plain of action of things to do; they had a discipline regarding of things NOT to do.
In Jesus’ instructions to his apostles, he begins with what NOT TO DO after giving them their assignment.
Do not take gold, silver, or copper in your belts, no bag18 for the journey, or an extra tunic,19 or sandals or staff,20 for the worker deserves his provisions. (Matthew 10:9-10 NET)
Could these businesses be operating out of Jesus’ principals successfully when most of his disciples are stuck in mediocrity because we are focused on the things we “should” be doing?
Do spiritual laws work despite the non-spirituality of the person who is working them just like the laws of physics? Something else to think about.
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======= Kelly:
Hey everyone! I am still here, I’ve just been slacking on the commenting. God is continuing to speak to me through His Word. I am enjoying the suggestions for books to read. Mike, the one you shared with us sounds really interesting!
Matthew 10:8 stood out to me today; the second half of the verse:”Freely you have received, freely give.”
We are so blessed to be able to receive God’s salvation–God freely gave it to us, if only we believe in Him..why am I so afraid sometimes to share about Him, and what He is doing in my life?! There is nothing to be afraid of! I am going to keep this verse in my heart so the next time I’m afraid, I will remember the great gift God gave me, and proclaim it without fear!
Blessings!
Kelly
======= Cheryl:
“The Red Tent” is my favorite book, and I highly recommend it. I’m actually re-reading it right now, which is why I was so surprised that you mentioned it in the lesson today!
If you’d like to read more good Biblical fiction, I recommend Francine Rivers. She wrote a series of books called “The Lineage of Grace”, telling the stories of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary. I think she’s writing a new series now about 5 biblical men, although I’ve only read the first 3 books of that series, about Aaron, Caleb, and Jonathan. Check them out if you get a chance!
Cheryl
======= Jenny:
Awesome readings! My dad n i were just discussing Ps 12 a few minutes ago, in fact he taught on that chapter today in his class. v. 6 “like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times.” …when silver is being refined, the layers have to be taken off (such as with us, we must be refined through firey trials). After the final layer is removed, the refiner looks upon the silver and its like a mirror, he can see his own face. So the refiner sees himself in the silver’s reflection…so like us as God refines us, when we are refined God will look upon us and see Himself. As in v. 6″And the words of the LORD are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times.” …His words are a direct reflection of Him…He is His word. I thought that was so cool.
God will protect us. (my dad n i were just discussing also). Our enemy not only has intent on harming us, but has the bow bent and ready to strike. BUt what have we to fear? God will protect from the harm of the enemy…whether it be the enemy or the wicked. We can rest in His saftey. (v.7)”O LORD, you will keep us safe and protect us from such people forever”.
v.8 “The wicked freely strut about when what is vile is honored among men.” …this is so true in today’s world! the vile is honored….the immoral is called good and the good is called bad. for example, the sexually immoral seems to be honored. it was more so men, now women are becoming as immoral and its becoming ‘acceptable’ by ppl. the gay community puts on their pride parades n honor themselves, the porn industry has their porn award shows (like the grammy’s!) n honor each other. 4/20…a day to smoke out n ‘fellowship’.
I love Proverbs, I pray for more wisdom, the more i learn, the more I want God’s wisdom…it doesnt come from anything in us but God Himself. We just have to ask!
I like Matt 10:11-14: “Whatever town or village you enter, search for some worthy person there and stay at his house until you leave. As you enter the home, give it your greeting. If the home is deserving, let your peace rest on it; if it is not, let your peace return to you. If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town.”
so it is when we share God’s word, there will people who will listen, may we plant the seed and continue to pray for these people. there will be people who will not receive it…we should not continue to ‘cast our pearls to the swine’ …but still pray for them, God will not give up on them, but there is a point where God may ask us to stop sharing with someone. Our job is to share, not to save, we cannot save anyone, that is the Holy Spirit’s job. Sometimes in the past i think i tried to take on the role of the holy spirit. God will tell me to step back. my work is done, thats His job! but then shake the dust off our shoes and move on to others who will listen.
I am a pretty sincere person, unfortunately I have a fallen nature like we all do. My niece is 15 and said recently, ‘everyone is so phony! everyone puts up an act and wears a mask! except for Jenny, with Jenny, you always know how she is feeling!’ haha…this got me thinking. We are to be sincere, we have days we are not at our best and its not that we should let the whole world know we are grumpy n make ppl miserable, whenever we go, we should seek to bless others, whether it be the grocery store, out to a resuarant. We should always be kind and polite, u never know, you may be entertaining angels! But I’m not gonna pretend to be something I am not. I work in customer service, so i need to kinda wear a happy mask…but if i’m in a bad mood, i wont sit there and act like I’m the happiest person in the world. I will be professional and cordial and the awesome thing is, God will meet me there! He will soon take over and His joy will manifest Himself in me and it will be a sincere joy I am radiating.
The term happiness is different from joy to me. Happiness is more a conditional thing…If i get good news, I’m happy. If i get bad news I’m unhappy. We cannot always be happy but we can have joy deep in us always! When I hear a horrible story on the news, i’m an not happy..but I still have the joy of the Lord in me…so in that sense, i differentiate the terms.
The Red Tent…my sister read that book a few years back and recommended it to me. I forgot about it until now. It sounded very interesting tho…yeah, some more “female” issues in there, but great for both genders i’m sure! I will put that on my books-to-read list!
Jenny
======= Erin:
Oh my gosh…yesterday, the minute after I posted, my laptop died!! Talk about stress! Is God testing me?? Well if He is, I’m trying really hard to show Him that I can deal with this without stressing out. I am currently typing to you from my boyfriend’s computer, so hopefully access to this one won’t be too hard
Mae – I’m confused about Genesis too – same questions. There is more polygamy in the Bible than I expected!!
I love the idea of God being in contol of my life, and this is what I remember when I become overwhelmed. I heard a great sermon once that talked about how God answers prayers. It said although sometimes we think that God does not answer our prayers, He is actually saying “No,” and for a good reason, which we often learn later. I think there is a song called something along the lines of, “Thank God for Unanswered Prayers.”
I would like to think of myself as a sincere person, but have realized that I have trouble being sincere when it comes to telling people things they don’t want to hear. It is so much easier to speak with “flattering lips!” I am praying that this will become easier for me.
Wisdom definitely equals happiness, and I have been so much happier since I have started praying and reading the Bible. God bless you all, and have a “happy” day
Erin
======= Cindy:
Hi, I think you should read “The Threshing Floor” by Juanita Bynum. It’s not fiction, but she teaches you so much on praying.We can learn a lot from her. God bless.
Cindy
======= Gina:
I never read The Red Tent but you have my curiosity peaked! The only fictional Christian books I’ve read are all of the Left Behind books. And to be quite honest, the first book in the series played a huge part in me getting saved! Reading it started me on a quest fo truth, if you will. And I’ve never turned back!
Geneis was a bit confusing for me today…just seemed like more “family” issues. I need to go back and study it more to get a grasp on it! But the “Let Go and Let God” – Yes, as a matter of fact, I just got home from our Healing Service tonight at church….I went to support a friend…little did I know I actually went for me! (God is good like that!) – I know I let go of some things tonight…I’m ready…very ready…to let God take over these areas of concern in my life!
Psalms is good – takes me back to when I mentioned about exagerating a few days ago (the 11th I think) anyways…God has been dealing with me in this area of my speech a lot lately. Not in the way of cursing, God delivered me pretty much immediately from my “potty mouth” – but I still tend to say negative things and will definitely exagerate a situation! I’m so glad God doesn’t leave us like we are!!
Gina
======= Bill:
QUESTIONS OF THE DAY:
“ Based on my discussion of “The Red Tent” by Anita Diamant above, are there other Biblical fiction books that you have read that you would recommend? The Red Tent is the first Biblical fiction book I have read, and I’d like to read some more. Please post up in the Comments section below any other Biblical fiction books you’d recommend and why?”
I haven’t read any fictional books based on Bible characters. The ‘Screwtape Letters’ by C.S. Lewis is about the only fictional Christian book that I have read. I do have the ‘Left Behind’ series but I haven’t started reading them yet. ’ The Red Tent ’ sounds like it would be an interesting read. I’ve had some people tell me that The Bible itself is “fiction” but what do they know? …lol
GENESIS 30:1-31:16
Polygamy was widely practiced in ancient times. Many today erroneously assume that God approved of it but I believe that He simply more or less tolerated it for a time. In this chapter we see why polygamy is not good and why monogamous marriage is God’s will for men and women. Polygamy tends to create rivalries among the wives for the husbands affections as in the case with Rachel and Leah. Jacob loved Rachel and not Leah ( 29:30 ). He never really wanted Leah in the first place. Leah knew this and had to have been hurt by it. She also felt cheated ( 30:15 ). Leah mistakenly thought that by having more children her husband would love her more ( 29:32-34; 30:20 ). God saw all of this and had compassion on Leah ( 29:31 ). Rachel on the other hand was insecure about not having yet borne a son to Jacob ( 30:1 ) and became desperate to the point of giving her handmaid Bilhah to Jacob to be yet another wife who bore him two sons ( 30:3-8 ). Likewise Leah, when she could bear no more children, did the same by giving her handmaid Zilpah who also bear him two sons ( 30:9-13 ). The rivaly between the two sisters for Jacob’s affections was so intense that it became a contest to see which could bear the most children to Jacob. Mandrakes were considered an aphrodisiac and the equivalent to a fertility drug by some ancient near eastern cultures. After Reuben, Leah’s firstborn, found some in a field the two sisters even contended for those ( 30:14-16 ). Leah won the baby making contest but she didn’t win Jacob’s love.
Another thing I took note of in this passage of Scripture is that God is not pleased with economic injustice especially in regard to defrauding laborers of their wages ( 31:7 ). This is basically what Laban, Rachel’s brother, did to Jacob. Laban kept Jacob around, so it seemed, solely for the economic benefits and the profit he gained by it ( 30:27 ). Apparently Laban wasn’t too concerned about leaving his daughters anything either by way of inheritance ( 31:14-16 ). God likewise saw all of this ( 31:12 ) and in the end God saw that justice was done for Jacob and his family in that God took away Laban’s wealth and gave it to Jacob ( 31:9 ).
“A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.”
– Proverbs 13:22 ( KJV )
MATTHEW 10:1-23
In reading about Jesus giving power to his twelve disciples to heal diseases and cast out devils ( v.1 ) it seems incredible to me that this also included Judas Iscariot who betrayed Him ( v.4 ) and whom Jesus referred to as “ the son of perdition” ( John 17:12 ). How can this be? Jesus Himself also warned that there would be those who He didn’t know as His down through the Church Age who would do these very same miracles but find out in the end they were not saved. ( Matthew 7:21-23 ).
PSALM 12:1-8
This seems to be describing a very wicked society, perhaps even being a prophetic vision of what the nation of Israel would become a few hundred years later after David’s death during the reign of his successors, the wicked kings of Judah and Israel. Among the sins singled out here were the sins of the tongue ( vs. 2-4 ) and oppression of the poor ( v.5 ). There also seems to be a reference here to an attack on the Scriptures and an attempt to destroy them ( v.6-7 ). It reminds me of when King Jehoiakim cut up the scroll and burned it in the fire but God causing another copy to be written ( see chapter 36 of the Book of Jeremiah ). There have also been many more attempts by wicked men down through the centuries and in many generations since then to do away with God’s Word but none have succeeded because God has promised to preserve His Word ( v.7 ).
PROVERBS 3:13-15
All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hid in God and in Jesus Christ, according to Colossians 2:2-3. All the money on earth cannot buy it and it isn’t for sale.
Bill
======= Elizabeth:
Hello,
Rosyln–thanks for eloquently sharing your thoughts about Mike and his ministry. I agree! Mike, you do a great job prompting us to application, discussion, and further study.
On the subject of books, I can’t recall if it was Mike or someone else who mentioned “Walking the Bible”
It’s not fiction, but a non-fiction travel diary of sorts( written by an unbeliever, I think) as he walks through the land of the OT… a documentation of his physical and spiritual journey through the land.
I am curious about this book and thought it might give me a fresh perspective on the OT land and culture. Also, I discovered that there is a children’s version of this book and and a DVD. Anyone familiar with this series?
to comment on today’s reading in Genesis….
Isn’t it sad that Jacob loved Rachel, but Rachel was jealous of Leah because she bore Jacob children? Then Leah was always trying to earn Jacob’s approval/love through more children. It’s like no one got their heart filled! So like this world–the grass is always greener.
Jacob’s life–and thus his family’s life–was fraught with manipulation and difficulty.
I also find it fascinating that the line of Christ goes through Leah, not Rachel.
Elizabeth
======= Lisa:
I am reading “The Bell Messenger”- a story about a Bible being passed from one person to another from the Civil War to the 1980’s. A great read, showing how God’s word remains, even though we pass from this life to Another. I think that God honored Jacob’s righteousness because he had turned from being a deceiver after he felt what is was like to be deceived. i had never heard of Jacob’s actions being superstition. I always thought they were an act of obedience. Another book that I read, a biography of Reese Howell, called Reese Howell-God’s Intercessor, talks about how he obeyed God in small things- to grow a beard, then shave it, to wear a hat. Eventually he prayed and saw many answers to prayer during WW1 as he would close his school at God’s command to pray for Allied forces. I have always looked at the sticks lesson as ” you will become like whatever you put in front of your eyes.” Maybe I’m superstitious. Be careful, little eyes.
Lisa
======= Nikki:
I have a question that some others may be thinking as well… It wasn’t until Jacob and Esau that we began to see polygamy (unless I missed it). Any thoughts as to why it was ok then, and now it’s not? If I had to guess, I would venture on the aspect of Old Testament covenants and laws versus New Testament where Jesus paid the price for our sins. I’m just curious if anyone had any ideas or insight into it.
As far as fiction books, Francine Rivers has written some excellent ones (Redeeming Love, Scarlet Thread, and the Mark of the Lion Series as mentioned above). Of course those are geared more towards women. Frank Peretti with “This Present Darkness” and many others are about spiritual warfare. And of course, the Left Behind series (total of 16 books) is about the rapture. I have enjoyed all of those authors and would highly recommend them.
Nikki
======= John:
Nikki,
God never condoned polygamy. Polygamy is man’s game whether in the name of getting more children, or plain desire/appetite.
Note as we read that when polygamy is present there is always heartache and trouble in the families.
Esau was godless (profane) from Heb 12:16, so the decision for multiple wives had nothing to do with God.
Jacob never consulted God after being duped by Leah and went along with a godless man’s (Laban’s) proposal to also marry Rachel. The result longer time indentured, bitter strife in the family, and later the sons decsived the deceiver regarding Joseph.
Let’s keep track and take note of others in the future that engage in polygamy as we travel through the Bible.
Note: Polygamy did not negate Jacob’s blessings, nor his role in patriarchs. That is because for God’s chosen ones (believers or eventual believers) – He is sovereign and His blessings are not dependant on our works but on His divine grace. That does not mean there will not be temporal punishment here on earth for disobeying God’s word, but it does nothing to curtail our eternal promise or God’s long range plan.
John
======= Kary:
Pastor David Yonggi Cho, pastor of the world’s largest church (with over 750,000 members!), in his book, The Fourth Dimension, has what I believe is a very powerful revelation about Jacob in this passage using the spotted and speckled poplar, almond & chestnut trees in front of the watering troughs.
He explains what he believes God is teaching us in this, and specifically relates it to activating our faith in God answering our prayers. As we have read lately in Matthew, Jesus often says, “According to your faith let it be to you” which phrase has always struck me. Pastor Cho used what he believes God is showing us in this passage to multiply his flock (church) for God, the fruit of which, I think, speaks for itself.
Anyway, I highly recommend the book; it is probably my favorite book after the Bible, especially in terms of impact a book has had on me. I have actually visited this church in Korea and seen for myself how huge the spiritual impact has been (i.e. how many people have to come to Christ and are bearing fruit, in a buddhist country no less!)
Kary
======= Kitty:
I think it’s important for us as witnesses of God to be as wary as snakes and harmless as doves. We need to be counter-cultural, and wise in our dealings with the world.
The reminder that happy is the person who finds wisdom and gains understanding is awesome!
Kitty
======= Henry:
Let go and let God – how true that is. I have to let go and let God do what He was too. It’s hard. I guess I have to build up my faith and trust God more and not rely on what I want. GOD IS IN CONTROL NOT ME.
Henry
======= Greg:
There are some great Bible study material that have fictional accounts of the Bible stories. Fictional in the sense they try to draw the feelings, emotions and thoughts of the person of the passage out and getting you thinking of being in their shoes. “Embracing His Vision” and “Resting in His Reality” by Tara Rye are at least two of her works that do this.
Greg
======= Ann:
Gen 30 – 31:16
All of the ‘giving servants to lay with him” just makes me think “Don’t they learn?!?” It is just not a great idea! God’s blessings will always be accomplished through the ways He has ordained!
‘Buying’ sleeping with her husband for her son’s mandrakes?!? Sounds like soup/birthright transaction, but now with superstition added in! Some things just ought not be for sale. The devil tempts us to sell things that ought not be for sale too. Our trust, our foundation, reliance – when we shift from those resting in God and His promises we are trading them for cheap and phony substitues that are FAR LESS valuable – really only destructive to us.
Reading about more superstition regarding the goats – this really makes my heart sad. It is so pervasive in our world. People want to weave it right in with Christianity – it DOESN’T have ANY place! It is at best, meaningless – and at worst destructive and deteriorating to our lives and certainly our walk with the Lord. Why ever choose that over the God of the universe?!? (I really do get very upset about this!)
proverbs 3:13-15
pray for and seek wisdom – they come from God and are SO worth it!!!
Mat 10: 1-23
v 1 made me reflect – ALL authority and power come through Him (any good that is!)
What faith the 12 had to do these things boldly(cast out demons, heal, raise dead etc.), rely on Him for provision (no silver, no tunic etc) , protection (you will be flogged etc) , and even words (don’t worry about what to say, Holy Spirit will give you words)!
“Shake the dust off as you leave”
When we are mocked, rejected, or denied – we too need to be able to ‘shake it off’ and move on. No baggage allowed!
Ann
======= Trudy:
Regarding Gen 30:37, I once heard a Bible teacher explain that these streaked animals were the result of genetics. (Quite frankly, I didn’t pay a lot of attention, because the topic was over my head.)
But even if it was genetics, it was still God.
Trudy
======= Janice:
I think what jumped out at me today is that I have been struggling with giving everything over to God lately, and what a perfect time this is for me to read this scripture! I truly need to remember that quote: “Let go and let God!” Thank you so much for your insight as it really spoke to my heart!
I also appreciated the reading of Proverbs 3:13-15. I have been unemployed for the past few years. Currently I am living with my daughter so that I can watch my grandsons while she goes to culinary school. It has really made me appreciate what I do have and not think so much on what I don’t.
I have much to pray on today and ask for your prayers as well.
God bless,
Janice
======= Dee:
Hi all! Like Ramona said, what a read! However racey it is, its one of my fave reads in OT! It keeps you on your toes, and you are like what??!! for one, falling in love with your mothers-brothers daughter..kind of ewww! if it were this day and age, but however being said, loving one and marrying (by tradeoff) the other! It is a pity that these girls have no mother figure..(guess she might have died at child birth like Rachel did..hmmm) and then their own father didn’t love them enough to treat them as heirs to the throne or to their inheritance. It is really said..No wonder when good looking Jacob came into town that they didn’t jump at the chance for love and all this terrible triangle conspired and then the baby making contest, I’m having his baby, no I am! Well, I can’t have anymore so take my handmaiden..(sounds a bit like sara/hagar..spell) LIke Ramona said, kinda crazy!! Oh well, still good read.
books, fictional: like I mentioned yesterday, good reads are by author Liz Curtis Higgs, and Francine Rivers does a good series too, based off of Hosea, called: Redeeming Love, and somemore called Mark of the Lion..very good reads!!
Dee
======= Bob:
Interesting BOOKS that I have read and recommend:
1) Deadline by Randy Alcorn – a great description about passing away and entering heaven.
2) How to Live Like a King’s King by Harold Hill – true story (1950’s?) that inspires us to greater belief.
3) A Tale of Three Kings and The Divine Romance both by Gene Edwards. (Thinking outside the box).
4) The Shack by Paul Young – Meet the Trinity as “real people”.
5) Two From Galilee by Marjorie Holmes – the story of Mary and Joseph.
Bob
======= Joe:
I saw the connection between the verse – And the words of the lord are flawless like silver and gold to the verse wisdom is more profitable then gold. From these words in our reading we gain wisdom. Meaning god has given us gold (words and wisdom) freely to chose whether to receive it or deny it. Wisdom is knowledge applied. I prayed tonight that I have wisdom and the will and spirit to apply my knowledge of god’s word.
Joe
======= Jeff:
Sorry, but I don’t see the benefit of Biblical fiction. Isn’t reading the Bible for 10 hours more worthwhile than reading Biblical fiction for 10 days (or months or years)?
If the Bible is truth, then won’t interspersing it with fiction tend to distort (rather than enhance) our understanding of God’s message?
Mike, I know very little about art, but today it occurred to me that I am really enjoying the art included each day’s blog posts. I’ve especially enjoyed the beautiful paintings portraying Biblical history that Mike includes in each day’s blog posts. I also appreciate the annotated photos included, but they simply don’t provide the feelings of awe generated by a painting that probably took weeks (or perhaps more likely months) for an artist to create.
Has anyone ever published a Bible that has a lot of artwork included along with the text?
And another related question: Are there any great painters anymore?
The great paintings including herein were normally created from between the 12th and 18th centuries. I suppose now that we have evolved to digital cameras and Photoshop, great paintings are dwindling away. Nevertheless, I am grateful that great art from centuries ago has been preserved for our enjoyment/education.
Jeff
======= Sandi:
I would recommend the book “The Fisherman ” by Larry Huntsperger. I have not read the entire book because I started reading it and my husband, who is a believer but is not generally interested in personal reading God’s word or learning about God, saw it and asked me about it. I have to say I am usually very critical about how accurate a fiction is along side the word of God and I am so impressed with this book up to page 64. Can’t wait to get back in it after hubby is done. Please pray for him to develop a hunger for God’s word – actually pray for me there also as I am hungry but could use more hunger.
Today’s reading that stood out are how manipulation and jealousy are very ugly things that I personally would like to remove from my life. I am asking God to show me ways to remove them. Whenever I start down the path towards these things I become aware and ask for God to redirect my mind. This action has been instrumental as God has blessed me with more confidence in my marriage, job, and ministry God has called me to. I am just this year following and realize in today’s reading I am quick to respond and slow to think. Wisdom is something that I really need.
Sandi
======= Robert:
Genesis 30
Reading through the history of Jacob and his family sure parallels what we see in not only in our own families but it is a source of entertainment when it comes to the media. Ramona has got it right with the more bizarre the more we tend to watch. I have been watching documentaries on the Royal Family in Great Britian and I think that attraction is the same thing the writer (Moses?) was after in some ways to show us how messy our lives can be. I hope the underlying message of how we need God’s help comes through.
A book I have found interesting is by Anita Diamont called “The Red Tent”. It is also a movie. The red tent was a place where the women of Jacob’s tribe would basically retreat and laugh about the follies of men. Endless food for thought.
Mathew 10
I thought it would be fun to share some of the disciples characteristics. This is from the book by Peter Scazzero. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
Peter: (leader) Big mouth and contradictions
Andrew: (brother) Quiet, behind the scenes
James: aggressive, hot headed (sons of
John: ambitious, intolerant thunder)
Philip: (feeding 5000) Skeptical and negative
Nathanael and Bartholemew: Prejudice and opinionated
Mathew: (tax collector) hated because he abused people
Thomas: (doubting) melancholy, depressive and pessimistic
James (Alphaeus)and Judas (James): nobodies – Bibles says nothing
Simon: (zealot) freedom fighter and terrorist
Judas: (treasurer) thief and loner, untrustworthy
All were spiritually and emotionally immature but they were willing. That is all God asks!
Robert
======= Mitch:
Jacob, Rachel, and Leah – what a soap opera. It seemed Isaac and Rebecca had followed one man, one woman, United as one, for one lifetime. But Jacob’s household was all about providing offspring for honor or love. The names descended from glorifying God to glorifying the women. Even fell back on – if I can’t conceive then take my servant. (Did they not learn by Hagar mess?)
Yet through all the above God used the soap opera to provide the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel.
Laban is all about money, and wants to leverage Jacob to make himself better off. Rachel and Leah are bitter towards father, but that leads to them being willing to go home with Jacob (from Turkey back to Israel area).
Psalm 12 – David – There is always a remnant. Today does seem to mirror the psalm (12) where society calls evil good and good evil.
Fictional books: When I got saved enjoyed the “Left Behind” series of books. CS Lewis’ Narnia series is good as is his Screwtape Letters.
Mitch
======= Crystal:
Any books by Gilbert Morris! He’s a wonderful author who tells REALISTIC stories and not the “mush and gush” of Christian fantasy. I’m sorry, but believers have the same struggles in life as unbelievers, and it’s just nice to read a story that doesn’t glamorize Christian life or suggest everything is always roses. I appreciate how problems are resolved in his books through prayer and the application of real life hard work and dedication to Christ.
Crystal
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