Genesis 46:1-47:31 + Matthew 15:1-28 + Psalm 19:1-14 + Proverbs 4:14-19
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Old Testament – Today in Genesis Chapter 46 we read about Jacob and his family’s journey to Egypt! I really like that God speaks to Jacob in a vision at Beersheba – the same place where both Abraham and Isaac had worshiped God earlier in Genesis. As Jacob was about to leave Canaan, God reaffirms his covenant promises. Very reassuring for Jacob I am sure! I wonder – sometimes in our lives – as we are about to embark on something big: Maybe a new ministry. Maybe a mission trip. Maybe a new job. Maybe a new marriage. Maybe a new child. Does God speak to us? Does God reaffirm his love to us? Does God tell us that he will be with us on this new thing – as he did to Jacob in this chapter? I can’t say that I’ve verbally heard God speak to me during times of big change in my life. But, I have most definitely sensed amazing peace many times during big changes in my life. I do try to pray more than ever during times of change. I try to stay as absolutely close to God as I possibly can. Maybe I’m kind of like a scared child trying to huddle up to my heavenly Father during times of change. Which I am okay with. 🙂 And – it seems almost without fail, God does “speak” to me with a peace that surpasses all understanding. If the peace is not there… then I do begin to worry if what I am doing is really God’s will for my life. If the peace is there – I know without a shadow of a doubt that what I am embarking upon is God’s will for my life. I will say this – that even if I cannot discern or sense the peace during a time of change, I still do not doubt that God will be with me. That he will not leave me. That he will be there. Do you believe that God is with you always? That he will go with you wherever you go? Below is a wonderful engraving by Gustave Dore of Jacob traveling to Egypt:
Verses 33 & 34 stood out to me in today’s readings, as Joseph gives his brothers this instruction: “So when Pharaoh calls for you and asks you about your occupation, tell him, `We have been livestock breeders from our youth, as our ancestors have been for many generations.’ When you tell him this, he will let you live here in the land of Goshen, for shepherds are despised in the land of Egypt.”” I like Joseph’s wisdom here. I guess you could look at this as Joseph being manipulative of Pharaoh. But I don’t really see this. I see that Joseph is telling his brothers what to say – which is true – and that this will allow the nation of Israel to begin to grow and flourish in the land of Goshen, removed from the cities of Egypt. It seems like Joseph is definitely catering to Pharaoh’s generosity – “let your family come to Egypt!” – and Pharaoh / Egyptians prejudices – “shepherds are despised in the land of Egypt.” For a win / win. It’s a Stephen Covey win / win business principle here! 🙂 Below is a map showing Jacob’s family’s journey from Canaan to Goshen:
In Genesis chapter 47 I find it very interesting that Jacob blesses Pharaoh twice. I haven’t studied why this happens. My thought is that Jacob is indeed very appreciative of this current Pharaoh – for literally saving the Israelites by allowing God to move mightily through Joseph. We will see soon that there are future Pharaoh’s who are not so kind to the Israelites… So, perhaps Jacob realized that this Pharaoh was deserving of two blessings. Let me know your thoughts on these blessings in the Comments below? Below is an image of Jacob blessing Pharaoh:
We then read about Joseph’s leadership and business skills during the famine – as things get really bad with the famine and people are on the brink of starving. Overall, I initially thought that Joseph was making wise decisions that ultimately ended up saving lives – and in verse 25 the people said the same thing. However, I have one good friend who was in a Bible study with me who felt that Joseph was being way too harsh. I can see both sides… 🙂 Did Joseph have other options / ways to do this? We actually got into quite a heated discussion on this point in our Bible study on this topic a couple of years ago. What do you think? During this time of extreme famine, was Joseph being too harsh or being wise and even being compassionate? Below is a Victorian era painting from 1874 by Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema titled “Joseph, Overseer of the Pharaoh’s Granaries”:
Okay, I have to say that I absolutely love Bob Deffinbaugh’s humor over at bible.org! Check out his commentary on Genesis chapter 46, with the awesome title of “Life Begins at 130” at this link. I love it! Bible.org’s commentary on Genesis chapter 47 titled “A Proper Perspective of Poverty and Prosperity” is at this link.
New Testament – In Matthew chapter 15 today we read about Jesus confronting the Pharisees on their “age-old traditions.” I read in Zondervan’s & Tyndale’s commentaries that after the Babylonian exile (we’ll read about the exile late this year in the One Year Bible), Jewish rabbis began to make meticulous rules and regulations governing the daily life of people. And that these rules were added to God’s law and were essentially elevated to the same sacred status by the Pharisees. In 200 A.D. these traditions of the elders were put into writing in the Mishnah. I think what Jesus gets at here in this chapter is that the Pharisees were allowing the “rules & regulations” to overshadow the spirit of God’s law. They were not honoring their parents because of the practice of Corban – giving $ to the temple. Which, giving $ to the temple is a good thing… but at the expense of the great thing of caring for your parents? I know we all could probably go round and round on what is the greatest good – how should we spend our time and our money and our lives. I like that Jesus basically takes it to the heart. What is the heart of the matter? No matter what the matter is – taking care of your parents, giving to your church, obediently following God’s will, receiving God’s grace – what is the heart of the matter? One thing that I have been so blessed to learn over the past few years is that the condition of our hearts matters. Immensely. The motives of why we do something – anything – matters. Immensely. We are called in Proverbs to “guard our hearts, for it is the wellspring of life.” If we do not care for the state of our hearts, we can become very regimented or insensitive in our thinking and doing. We might even get to the point in verse 8 of this chapter where Jesus quotes from Isaiah: “`These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far away.” How is the state of your heart today? Is it close to God? Does your heart yearn for Jesus?
Jesus continues to speak about the importance of what is in our hearts in verses 18-20 today: “But evil words come from an evil heart and defile the person who says them. For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all other sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander. These are what defile you.” I think this takes us back again to the Sermon on the Mount – where Jesus teaches us in one example that yes, it is wrong to commit adultery. But, if you commit adultery in your heart, it is just as wrong. Because if you commit adultery in the heart, you have defiled your own heart. And from the heart could come the actual act of committing adultery – which would then shatter several lives. But it all starts in the heart…. So – the good news? Jesus can heal our hearts! Jesus is in the business of heart-healing! Maybe in your life, you might need to refocus from some external actions and start focusing on the state of your heart? Maybe by focusing on what’s going on inside your heart, the external actions will ultimately change? Maybe allow Jesus to heal your heart – and then your external life will be healed as well? I’m not sure you can go about this the other way – trying to work from the outside back in… I think you need to start on the inside first and work your way out. But don’t do this alone – let Jesus walk this healing path with you. Let Jesus tattoo your heart with his healing love! (very interesting name of the theater in the image below, based on our Genesis readings today… 🙂
Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 15 titled “Jesus and the Traditions of the Elders” is at this link and “The Faith of a Canaanite Woman” is at this link.
Psalms – Today we read Psalm 19, which is one of my favorite Psalms! In large part this Psalm is one of my favorites because one of my former pastors taught from this Psalm a few years ago in such a powerful way. Have you had this type of experience? Where you hear a sermon on a chapter of the Bible and then that chapter becomes one of your favorites? I do hope that this One Year Bible experience will allow you to tune-in a little bit more whenever you hear your pastors or ministers or priests teaching you from the Bible in church. I know this is the case with me. Thanks to reading the Bible each day, I now have better context of what is being taught from the pulpit and it makes going to church a richer experience overall. I also now often catch some Bible verses in the worship songs or hymns we sing as well. And this adds a lot to my worship of God now through music. This year, as you go through the One Year Bible and as you go to church, will you tune-in to the sermons and the songs in church more than ever and look for and appreciate how they tie in to the Bible?
Back to Psalm 19 – I do encourage everyone to really read through and meditate on every verse in this Psalm of David and how this Psalm might be speaking to you this week. Please do take a few minutes to go through the Psalm twice if possible and really reflect upon it. You may even want to journal to God some thoughts or ideas or prayers that come to you through reading this Psalm. I find verse 14 in this Psalm to be so powerful – again in large part because one of my former pastors often sang a worship song that simply repeats this verse over and over again – and what a beautiful prayer it is for each of us to repeat over and over again as well: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Are the words of your mouth and the meditation of your heart pleasing in God’s sight? Is God your Rock? Is God your Redeemer?
Bible.org’s commentary on Psalm 19 is at this link.
Proverbs – Proverbs 4 verse 18 reminds me of Psalm 19! “The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, which shines ever brighter until the full light of day.” See the parallel? Is your life shining ever brighter as you go forward in life? Are you shining ever brighter for those around you? Are you loving and blessing those around you more and more each day? Are you moving forward toward the full light of day?
Worship Video: Today’s readings in Psalm 19 reminds me of the Laura Story song “Indescribable” sung here live by Chris Tomlin at Red Rocks from the sound board in the middle of the audience:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4-tGQD6sUA
Do you know our Indescribable God? Click here for His description!
Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14 NIV
Prayer Point: Pray that the words of your mouth today would be pleasing in God’s sight. Pray that the very meditations of your heart today would be pleasing in His sight. Pray that you would know and experience Jesus as your Rock and your Redeemer this very day.
Comments from You and Questions of the Day: In Matthew 15 verses 10 & 11 today we read: “Then Jesus called to the crowd to come and hear. “Listen,” he said, “and try to understand. It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth.”” Do you agree with these words of Jesus’? Are you cognizant of the words that come out of your mouth on a moment by moment basis? Have you ever had to conscientiously change the words that come out of your mouth because they were not blessing others? Do you use profanity? (or am I being a Pharisee by even asking this question… 🙂 I think it’s a fair question – does profanity come out of your mouth? Do you think this is pleasing in God’s sight? (Psalm 19:14) 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.
p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.
p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!
BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
======= Ramona:
Mike’s Questions (from a few years back)
1. name:
Ramona H.
2.where you live (country, etc. – no actual addresses please!
Brooklyn, NY USA
3. When do you read your One Year Bible readings each day?
In the morning, and I usually reread the passages on the way to work and jot down notes
4. Where and how do you read them typically?
Home on-line and I use an actual bible on the train ride into work. I will also read at work if I have to be at work very early for some reason.
–5. How has the One Year Bible experience been for you so far?
The experience has been fantastic this year. Last year it was lonely and sparse on the comments section. Now it reminds me of an exciting time I had before my church went the size of “Mega-church.” When it was smaller and it another site and we would have to wait in line to get into the next service (7am; 9am; 11am & 1pm), there were a group of us that shared passages of what we had read the previous week. We called it running scriptures. As we discussed the passage that spoke to each of us mightily, we would be blessed by the discussions on that passage and more thoughts and insights would be gained as others brought in what they say and how they read it.
6. Do you have a blog or website link you want to share with everyone? No, I’m am a little “chicken” in starting my own Blog.
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======= Andrew:
Good morning! My entry for the ‘One Year Bible “roll-call.”‘
1. Andrew B
2. The Netherlands
3. Morning, sometimes again in the evening.
4. Home, online
5. Better than expected – the interaction and sense of a community forming make it fun. But, somewhere Mike reminded us to keep focussed on the Bible text, be sure to read that, you don’t have to read all the other stuff. I tend to follow too many other threads.
Andrew
======= Donna-Jean:
My name is Donna-Jean, I’m in New Jersey, and I’ve been really enjoying reading along with the OneYearBibleBlog so far this year.
I’ve read through the Bible a few times before, using a chronological plan (Job after Genesis, each NT book inserted into Acts when Paul travels there or contacts them, etc.) – but I like this more in some ways. I appreciate the balance with reading portions from different parts of the Bible.
I usually read the passages online, so that I can compare different versions.
Thanks for all the hard work, and for the insight on the blog and the comments.
Donna-Jean
======= Micah Girl:
1. Micah Girl
2. USA
3. Morning, first thing, with a cup of good coffee, before the house is awake.
4. At home on my laptop before I blog and work out.
5. So far, great! I started on this journey late in last year and popped in and out and never developed the habit. This year is my new beginning.
6. Musings of Micah Girl
http://micahgirl.blogspot.com/
======= Luch:
Name: Luciano Del Monte–son of Italian immigrants. Lots of people call me Luch. I am 52 and the very happy husband of Rosetta, my bride of 30 years. We both met Jesus at the same time in our 2nd year at university. We have 3 sons, Vince 26, Adrian 23, and Mikey 19. They all love the Lord and have found their own distinct approach to seeking and serving God.
Where do I live? I live in Guelph Ontario, a commuter town about 45 minutes west of Toronto and 3 hours east of Detroit.
When do I read? First thing in the morning at my desk, but I like to actually journal my thoughts later in the day at my favourite ‘office’ called the Bean Roast Cafe. It’s the BEST part of my day, and then I often do a prayer walk with my portable one year bible and pray over the Scriptures as I walk.
I work for the Christian discipleship ministry called The Navigators. I am also an associate pastor at a church in our town, and a coach to several churches who want to become focused on intentional disciplemaking, helping to create more of a missional approach to church than just attractional.
I just read a controversial book by Matt Whitlock and Chuck Smith Jr of Calvary Church. The book is called Frequently Avoided Questions. ONe of the questions they pose in the book is “Does God speak outside of the Bible?” I would have to say that Psalm 19 answers YES. He speaks from the definite revealed Word of God, and He also speaks from ‘the heavens’–His glory is definitely being revealed ALL THE TIME. As well, we were told a few weeks ago from Proverbs 1:20-23 “Wisdom calls aloud in the street. She raises her voice in the public squares; at the head of the noisy streets she cries out, in the gateways of the city she makes her speech.” I guess the point is that God is always trying to get my attention through events, books, movies, experiences, but am I listening?
Luch
======= Nigel:
I`m Nigel, I live in Guayaquil Ecuador. I read online after breakfast before opening up my e-mails and getting down to work. I am enjoying this approach to Bible reading and write down notes, questions and prayers in my jornal
Nigel
======= Nancy:
Nancy
Lebanon, PA
I read the Bible online in the mornings. I just discovered this site a week ago while surfing and I am delighted to have found it. It makes the Bible reading come alive to me. Thank you for your dedication and hard work. God is good. I plan to stay with this all year and in years to come. I am a grandma and pray that I can pass faith to children. God Bless You.
Nancy
======= Claire:
My husband and I are seriously reading the Bible for the first time….He is fighting Cancer…and we are both getting so much support from this OYB and each other!!! I read it to him every morning after breakfast…and if I get involved with something he reminds me that it’s BIBLE READING TIME…and it’s a wonderful inspiration to the two of us…I also have a SPECIAL GIRLFRIEND who is enjoying this as well…her name is PAT…and we “chat” about various Biblical characters and incidences…Thank you Mike for this wonderful opportunity…The HOLY TRINITY…all 3 are beaming with PRIDE about your accomplishments in reaching out to so many people…God’s Blessings be with you today…and every day…go forth with your love and caring Mike. We feel like you are a personal friend!!!
Claire
======= Ramona:
Genesis 46:1-47:31
What I have learned in today’s reading is this, God can come along, change my name after I wrestle with Him, and prevail; however, afterwards, I may act like a “Jacob” but He, God, will still call me Israel. God is a God of His Word even though I may not be a woman of my word.
SO ISRAEL made his journey with all that he had and came to Beersheba [a place hallowed by sacred memories] and offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac. [Gen. 21:33; 26:23-25.] And God spoke to Israel in visions of the night, and said, Jacob! Jacob! And he said, Here am I. And He said, I am God, the God of your father; do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will there make of you a great nation.
(Genesis 46:1-3 AMP)
I can be given a promise and after having waited and waited for it to be fulfilled, afraid that I will die before I see it happen, God will always come back to confirm His Word while He comforts me with these words, “Do not be afraid” (46:3). God will fulfill His promises in the environment He has chosen and in the “nation” He decides.
Ramona
======= John:
Matt 15:21-28
Hardly anyone ever comments on this passage. Some that do actually criticize the Lord for being too harsh.
Only use of Canaanite in New Teastament. A Gentile people despised by Israel. She knows she is going to be embarassed yelling after Jesus (a Jew), and she does it anyway. “Dog” was the common derogatory term applied to Gentiles by Jews. She accepted the term and even applied it to herself.
“Then Jesus answered, “Woman, you have great faith!” The only time in gospels that great (Gk. megas)is used in regards to faith. This Canaanite “dog” woman believed Christ was the Son of David, and could heal her daughter. She would not take no for an answer.
Samuel Rutherford perceptively wrote: “It is said he answered her not a word; but it is not said,
he heard not one word: these two differ much. … his not answering is an answer, and speaks thus, ‘Pray on, go on, and cry; for the Lord holdeth his door fast bolted, not to keep out, but that
you may knock and knock.” [The Trial and Triumph of Faith, 115]
John
======= Kim:
I’m a new (and grateful!) Christian so this is my first read through the entire Bible. It’s also my first comment on this Blog. I’m in the habit now of reading first thing in the morning, after praying and I usually read sitting in my “prayer chair” in my bedroom. I’m reading a Tyndale NLV One Year Bible – I still like the “feel” of paper.
I’m so enjoying this incredible journey! The Blog is so helpful in reflecting on what I’ve read. This journey for me, so far, has been a bit of a roller coaster of emotions – Joy, anger, admiration, love, disgust, laughter, bewilderment, sadness and triumph – It’s been a long time since I’ve ever had anything capture my mind, heart and soul like reading the Bible has. I marvel at how at my age, I am delightfully learning in such a child-like manner.
I’ve loved the story of Joseph! I admire his character and how he was able to appreciate the BIG picture and give God all the glory. Great lesson for me in staying positive and focused.
Psalm 19 moved me almost to tears. It was so beautiful! I, along with many others, understand that experience of witnessing that indescribable, perfect beauty that He creates all around us – everywhere – when we take the time to really notice. Those moments are precious to me and before I ever knew God, He was showing Himself to me. Now can I praise him and I desire to be in a right relationship with him and don’t want jeopardize that. Poetic justice to His glory!
Kim
======= Keysha:
Hi Kim. I feel like a new Chrisitan since I just recomitted my life back to Christ. I actually got saved back when I was 16 years old, 16 years ago and that was the end of that. I didn’t take it any further. Early last year I just gave up. My life was in shambles and I just surrended and said, Ok, Lord I cannot do this without you so please just take over and that is exactly what He did.
I have been enjoying the ride every since. I was so excited when I found this blog as well it has been so helpful. I am determined to get thru the whole bible this year. Last year I did not even make it past Genesis, LOL.
As for profanity. I used to cuss like a sailor as mom & dad did while growing up but I have to say that I am so happy because that seemed to have been the first thing that I was delivered from. Thank you, Lord!He is working on my husband, LOL!
Mike, you are AWESOME!
Keysha
======== Jen:
I have heard God speak to me in a very audible to my ears voice. He commanded me to do something very important. I don’t talk about this much as I have had people in the past doubt me. However, I believe what I heard was the voice of God.
In Genesis 46:29 I understand that Joseph really missed his dad
I had to laugh when Jacob tells the king that he has ONLY lived 130 years. To us these days that is a lot.
Matthew 15
Be ever vigilant the state of your heart. Always make sure it is clean and wholesome. Living and yearning for God.
Psalm 19
1The heavens keep telling the wonders of God, and the skies declare what he has done.
I often look around me and think God is the greatest artist ever. Recently I have been thinking about how awesome it is that people across the world have told me they have seen the comet McNought and I too have heard people in my own country having seen it. God really is awesome with the way he has created nature.
11By your teachings, Lord, I am warned; by obeying them, I am greatly rewarded.
What a wonderful verse. He warns us what is sin. By living His way we are rewarded with more than we could ever want or need
Jen
======= Gina:
Does God speak to us? Does God reaffirm his love to us? Does God tell us that he will be with us on this new thing – as he did to Jacob in this chapter? – Absolutely YES! God speaks to us in a number of ways. The question is are we listening? God reaffirms his love and is always with us btu sometimes we can get so caught up in “us” that we turn a deaf ear to Him. I believe by reading the Word daily and spending time with God will help us to hear God’s still small voice. I do believe that He opens and closed doors for us in His perfect timing. There are several things right now in my life (husband’s job, a baby) that God is just saying “wait” – but I have a peace about waiting (most of the time…LOL!) – It’s when I get my eyes off Jesus that I get all anxious again. His peace is amazing.
Psalm 19:14 is awesome! I used to have a real problem with profanity and thankfully that is one of the first areas God “cleaned” up in me! I still have to stop and think before I speak. I tend to be a bit harsh in my words…brutally honest, if you will. Ahhh…the gift of prophecy! God wired me this way so I know it’s okay to an extent, but I’m finally learning how to be honest and loving at the same time….what a journey!
Gina
======= Cherie:
I’ve been so excited about this opportunity to read thru the Bible with all of YOU! I love the interactive ability! Mike, thank you for your efforts & thought provoking questions.
One question: We are told in Matthew 10:5 that the disciples were to go first to the Jews. 10:6 “Go to the lost sheep of Israel.”
Again Jesus states Matt. 15:24 “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of Israel.”
So, at what point did Jesus open his ministry openly to the Gentiles? Does any one know this? Was there a turning point? I’d appreciate any input. Thank you!
Cherie
======= Mae:
I do hope that this One Year Bible experience will allow you to tune-in a little bit more whenever you hear your pastors or ministers or priests teaching you from the Bible in church. I know this is the case with me. Thanks to reading the Bible each day, I now have better context of what is being taught from the pulpit and it makes going to church a richer experience overall. ~ Ohhhh, you have no idea!!!!! I’m so proud of myself!!!! A couple of years ago, when I felt that I needed to get more out of myself and my life, I started to look for Jesus Christ. From time to time I tried to read the Bible but it was just too hard. I tried different books, different part, different pages, verses etc. But I just didn’t understand what it was about. It’s so weird, even the stories from Noah, Jozef and Moses were hard to read. Since my rebirth and since I join this Bible-study I have come to know so much more about the Bible! I actually understand what I’m reading! Sure, I bump into things that are hard, but over all I understand what I’m reading and I can treasure it in my heart! I’m so proud when my pastor mentions verses from the Bible during the service and I know exactly where he’s talking about and I’ve been reading it not too long ago! I’m all like “Yes… I know where you’re talking about!!!”. It’s wonderful to experience this all! It’s a wonderful journey and I love being able to use all the wisdom in my life. I can feel myself grow every day and it’s all because of God and His wonderful word!
Verses that stood out for me were from Matthew 15.
11 “It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth”.
18 “But the words you speak come from the heart—that’s what defiles you”.
19 “For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander”.
Proverbs 4:19 “But the way of the wicked is like total darkness. They have no idea what they are stumbling over”.
All these verses kind of match together … I feel that the unsaved mostly don’t know what it’s like to be God’s child. Not too long someone thought that me being a Christian included: not watching tv, not listerning to rock music, not to drink. Funny thing that I talked about it with my pastor right before this, he told me it’s not nesecerally ( I still don’t know how to spell it!!) to stop watching tv … it’s to know when you want to stop watching that particular show, when the thoughts come or when the cursing come. You know when you want to stop watching that show. Some of the unsaved just don’t know … and that’s why they have no idea what they are stumbling over. They think to be God’s child means that you HAVE to stop doing things. While they continu thinking that they have no idea what they are stumbling over … stumbling while all things come from their heart like evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying and slander … So sad … And they probably try to talk all this wrong, right … even more sad… They truly need to make the decesion to walk with God …
Mae
======= Sarah:
Mae- Necessarily- it’s N.ever E.at C.hocolate. E.at S.alad S.andwiches ARILY – Least that’s how we remember in England!! ;o)
Sorry I know that wasn’t particularly spiritual but I just had to share it, it’s really helped me and now I can spell the word every time ;o)
Haven’t really got anything to add/share on todays readings but I have to say I’m really enjoying this, although I am struggling to manage the full four every day. I’ve been a Christian for years, since I was a little girl but my knowledge of the bible is very poor and I’ve always “put off” reading it all the way through. I’m so glad I did this year and for the first time ever the Old Testament is really coming alive for me (thanks to the Blog and the commentaries) I’m finding it so interesting and God is really speaking to me, especially through the life of Jacob. Thanks ever so much for dedicating the time you are doing to this Blog it’s been really helpful to me.
Sarah
=======Brandie:
Ahh it feels great to be back. I got a new fan in my computer and Jesus had me take care of some buisness that needed to be taken care of and now I feel as if I am a better person for relieving myself of my sins. Ever get that feeling??
I spent it with my family, school started and little E is in school and mommy will be teaching next week and time will be valued with the family but I have prioiritzed myself, I have a calendar and Jesus will take care of us as he always does. But this snow to drive in makes one tired. I hope tomorrow I can rest.
I sure missed being with my “Mae and my jenny” but enjoyed your emails
Of course God speaks to us all the time. He speaks to us through a dream, in our conscience. I believe God is with me always. If I didn’t I don’t think I would be here writing this. I know I would be scared all the time. Who would I have to look up to?
My heart is close to Jesus and I yearn for Jesus every day. I think I would be lost without Jesus everyday now that I look for the Bible for answers for my questions. I mean I have a lot of questions for Jesus when I get to Heaven’s doors.
Profanity: yes i am not ashamed I use it sometimes when i stump my toe or something happens that hurts my feelings. Jesus doesn’t like to hear those things and I don’t like for my little boy to repeat them so we have a rule in our house we don’t say the “d” word or the ultimate no no word. so we don’t cuss in our house at all..or we try not to cuss..and therefore our little man doesn’t use it.
Brandie
======= Pat:
JOSEPH AND THE DISTRIBUTION OF GRAIN:
Mike, what Joseph did was quite remarkable for that time. First of all, the grain belonged to the Pharaoh and it wasn’t his to give away. Secondly, the Pharaohs of that time were businessmen who never gave anything away without getting something in return. The only reason that he gave to Joseph’s family was because of the profits he was getting from Joseph’s management of all of Egypt and he also expected the men in the family to take care of his livestock as well.
Now for the actions of Joseph – first he sold grain for money and turned over all the money to Pharaoh. Next, he traded grain for livestock because there was no more money and he gave all the livestock to Pharaoh. After the money and the livestock were gone, he traded grain for their land and servitude. The land was given to Pharaoh along with the pledge of their servitude. At this point we see God working through Joseph because the people no longer owned the land but they would be tilling the soil and raising the livestock. They were given the food they needed to sustain them during the remainder of the famine and they were assured that from that day on they would get to keep four-fifths of everything produced on the land. The Pharaoh owned the land, the livestock, the seedbed, everything – but – he was only going to collect one-fifth of the profit from the land. That was unheard of in that day. Matter of fact, it is still unheard of in this day. What business do you know of today where the worker(s) get to keep four-fifths of the profits and the owner(s) only get one fifth? No wonder the Egyptian people praised Joseph for saving them!!!
God Bless!
Pat
======= Lisa:
The Lord has been dealing with me on just this area, the tongue. In other words think before you speak. You can uplift someone or damage them. Choose what is right. Thank you for this good teaching.
Lisa
======= Jenny:
i like what you wrote Bible dude about reassurance in God’s peace for our decisions…and about feeling like a scared child running to God in times of change. I sure do!
I read the text before reading the blog….i didnt think Joseph was being harsh. I believe God gave him wisdom, as he was in charge of Potapher’s lot, he was a businessman, but he showed compassion for the hungry. What was their response? in v. 25 “You have saved our lives,” they said. “May we find favor in the eyes of our lord; we will be in bondage to Pharaoh.” They were grateful!
Definately our heart matters…thats what God is looking at! my actions, words, can be whatever i want them to be, but not before God….He sees my motives, my heart. I need to constantly pray for a clean heart because my heart cannot be trusted!
Ha, one of my pastors was going over this years back and He pointed out how Jesus put the Pharisees right in their place, He called them for what they were (cause He knew their hearts/motives), hypocrites, a brood of vipors, etc. My pastor said, due to the whole tolerance movement today, people would now say to Him, “now Jesus, that isnt very Christ-like!” haha.
I definately agree with what you said about hearing pastors teach on scripture we read and songs, it makes it all the more richer! Often times I will be reminded of things I have heard from pastors…they stick in your mind and are recalled when you read that section. It completely enhances your BIble reading experince. I often listen to KWAVE 107.9 and hear teachings on the BIble, along with church on sunday and wednesdays. Its an awesome way to grow. Yes, even songs…its funny how you realize where the artists got their lyrics, ‘oh! from that passage!’
I like Ps. v14 “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
amen!
Prov stood out also. V 19 “But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.” how true!
oh, and i used to have a fowl mouth! really bad, it was out of control. I tried to control it, but couldnt. Notice “I” tried to control it. I had to give it over to the Lord and He healed my heart in that regard…not saying i dont slip up now and again, but I detest when I hear that language, especially if it comes from my mouth!
Jenny
======= Kitty:
Pslam 19:4 is one of my favourite verse. I pray constantly that the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart is pleasing in God’s sight, because HE is truly my Rock, and my Redeemer. Praise the Lord!
Kitty
======= Wendy:
Wow….! The picture of the theatre in Goshen…this is in the town I was born in. I used to attend this theatre as a child…
I live with an unsaved spouse..the profanity hurts my heart…I believe it hurts God as well…My opinion, if we serve God with our whole mind and soul and follow his example, there is no room for profanity…for profanity is not pure.
Wendy
======= Beth:
I want to comment on the fact that reading here helps in church and worship. Last Sunday at church our Sunday School class was talking about the origination of Islam. The reading went right along with last Sunday’s reading that explained where Esau went when Jacob came home. It was so cool to have the map (red map showing Edom at it’s largest) shining in my head as a result of having been in the Word and on this blog earlier that morning!
I’d like to say thank you to the Bible Blog author. I also would like to pray, Father, that You would bless this man… not with money but with righteousness for him, his family, his extended family. Let your blessings fall like rain and overflow in a way that brings peace and wisdom to him and all he comes in contact with. Protect him from enemy advances. Be his strength, O Lord. Thank You, again, for this ministry, Jesus. In Your name… amen.
Beth
======= Karen:
Agree wholeheartedly with Beth the prayer for Mike.
As to the fairness of Joseph. All we have to do is take a look at our government and see what happens when there is a giveaway program instead of a cost. Joseph did the absolute right thing. Love in Christ.
Karen
======= Alli:
I also agree wholeheartedly and stand in pray with Beth regarding Mike and this fantastic ministry…MAY GOD TRULY AND RICHLY BLESS YOU…
I also agree with Karen regarding Joseph’s payment requirements for food during the latter period of the famine…and even though it may seem harsh, I believe that it is in keeping with God’s word to Adam in
Genesis 3:19 (King James Version)
19In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.
…Sometimes people too do not appreciate the full value of a thing when it is given for free [Just think about salvation]…Just a thought
Alli
======= Ken:
I very much appreciate your adding the song links to each days reading. It definitely enriches me and is something I look forward to.
Ken
======= Beverly:
I teach a Sunday School class and today’s lesson is on Christian Ethics. Our readings today are some of the same scriptures that are used in our class. In Psalm we learn how God’s word is a light to our eyes and it is our guide to knowing God and understanding what He would have us do. It is the Bible that is the ultimate guide on how we act ethically.
One of the standards of Christian ethics is the traditions of the church as recorded in Acts. However we are also learning that we need to be aware of the traditions that are not what God would have us follow. In Matthew we learn that there are some traditions that are self serving as was the case for the Pharisees. It was important for them to have the money that should have been spent for the care if the parents.
I just love this journey through the Bible. It is especially awesome when it connects so closely with the lesson that I am teaching.
Beverly
===== Johnny:
I love Psalm 19. It flows smoothly from speaking of how God’s creation testifies about Him to speaking of His moral law. The natural laws studied by science and the moral laws of philosophy and ethics are all part of His law. He is the Creator of all.
Johnny
======= Lorraine:
I have had that proverbs verse conveyed to me four times this week in many ways.
Too many times we think the path of christianity is bumpy and frought with danger and stumbling blocks. It’s not it’s a free path that is bright and clear and we can race down it knowing that God guides and leads us along.
I’m sharing this in case others feel the same way. Faith is not a struggle/should not be. Relax and follow God and he will guide your footsteps. Let go of self perfection and self righteousness. The work and the battle is God’s.
Lorraine
======= Jennifer:
What touched me today is Proverbs don’t get on the path of sin. It spoke a warning that the path of sin is the easy path, the wide path, the path of no reflection, no internal battle. Sin is waiting like a tiger to attack. Follow the path of light led by God, it is difficult, personally challenging and full of peace, light, and grace.
Jennifer
======= Charlie:
Joseph was in that position to start with because he possessed knowledge that few of us have. We must remember that the people were bringing their cattle, horses, and other livestock in exchange for grain but guess what, the animals had to be fed too. What more skillful way than to have the people return a fifth of their crop so that animals and people could continue to eat throughout the famine!
Charlie
======= Christina:
In today’s ready you asked did we think that Joseph was being too hard. In my opinion when I read it I thought wow that seems kind of harsh he took everything from them and reduced everyone to slaves. However, the thing we must always remember is that our opinions on what we think really don’t matter. God is so much bigger than us and his visions for us for the people are so much bigger than anything we could ever fanthom. So Joseph was obviously very receptive to doing what God wanted, it’s very evident that Joseph was in God’s will by reading the passages. SO if Joseph was doing that then obviously it fit into God’s plan. So who are we to judge whether it’s harsh. God had a plan for the people of Egypt and if it means enslaving them so that they’ll turn to God then maybe that was the purpose of it. So overall ultimately I don’t think it was too harsh because it was obviously in God’s will and God’s will is always right
Christina
======= Carol:
I love Psalm 19 also and find it is wonderful to meditate on and to pray! I’ve been reading the day’s reading the night before but I think I will keep Psalms and Proverbs for the morning as they are just too precious for me to simply read through, but I want to prayerfully read through them, which can take some time (and a fresh mind!)
Carol
======= Joyce:
Mike and everyone,
I was reading from shadowmountain.org, 2013 sermon, “A Book That Will Change Your Life Psalm 19:7-11” by Dr. David Jeremiah.
He poses these questions:
How healthy is our current perspective on life?
Is it a life-giving one or a life-draining one?
How would relying on the Bible, instead of your own thoughts, change your life for the better?
He proposes that in a world of lies and confusion, Bible is a reliable guide toward health and life.
In a different sermon “The Riches of the Word”, Pastor Brian Evans said:
“If you are getting answers from any place besides God’s Word you are at best getting half truths and at worst lies. Man’s methods are to place blame onto something or someone else when in reality we are to blame.
David understood God’s sovereignty and his own depravity. He knew where to find help.”
Psalm 19:7-9 NASB
7 The law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul;
The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
8 The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart;
The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever;
The judgments of the Lord are true; they are righteous altogether.
1 Kings 8:56 NASB
“Blessed be the Lord, who has given rest to His people Israel, according to all that He promised; not one word has failed of all His good promise, which He promised through Moses His servant.
Matthew 5:18 NASB
For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished.
Do we truly believe God’s Word as what He says it is – that not one word has failed, that it is perfect, restoring the soul and enduring forever?
If we do, I’m reminding myself, then, it will be so wise for us to read, meditate upon His Word daily, and follow and obey His Word in our lives!
May God bless all of you!
Joyce
======= Dee:
Amen, God never changes..same today, yesterday and forever more!!
It’s like an awakening came over Jacob when he learned Joseph was alive-he finally honored God again with sacrifices on way to meet up with Joseph.
What I always thought was strange, is how Jacob catered to Benjamin and still treated him like a babe. All pictures drawn show him as an infant or very younge adolescent. However, he had 10 children that went to Egypt with him. Joseph was 17 when sold into slavery-there 11 years, prison 2-3 years, then he was 30 and was given job and responsibility of being a governor of all of Egypt and there were 7 years of plenty throughout all lands, then 7 years of famine, harsh famine. 2 years in to that famine, his father and family came to live in Goshen so he could support them. Joseph was about 40 by then. , his brother I feel was only 2-5 years younger, I don’t know -however I know it was more of a closeness thing because that was a child of Jacob’s great love-Rachel
I loved how God spoke to Jacob and reassured him that everything would be alright-and even though Jacob acted like he was on his death bed -he lived to be 147-17 years after moving to Egypt.
Matt 15;1-28
Those Pharisees sure use the “our” tradition alot-instead of the Lord God’s mandates and laws.
Jesus gave it back to them and then some about(violating direct commands of God). They cancel the Word of God for the sake of their own traditions.
Wow! Good teachings today! v.11 “It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you, you are defiled by the Word’s that come out of your mouth.”
Lord, by hearing the Words you said and talking about dirty hands don’t defile you-makes me think of the action of mankind today. We are putting such emphasis on hand washing, what goes in our nose and mouth(wearing masks, social distancing) COVID, etc.. that we are refusing to see real picture Jesus portrays-what goes into our heart-the laws passed, beliefs contradictory to the Bible and God’s mandate-They are passing man’s laws instead of Gods.
Ps 19: 1-14
The heavens and the skies speak and evangelize to us-the sun nothing can hide from it-
we need to listen to the Lord and His instrucitons.
Prov 4:14-19 Walk away from evil! period..
Amen!
Dee
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