New Every Morning

"The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,

For His compassions never fail.

They are new every morning;

Great is Your faithfulness."
- - Lamentations 3: 22-23


I saw this comic this morning and immediately thought of the above verse. God mercies are new every morning. Each day is a gift from the Lord. Am I extending new mercies to those I come in contact? My husband, my children, and/or my coworkers?

"'Master, how many times do I forgive a brother or sister who hurts me? Seven?'
Jesus replied, 'Seven! Hardly. Try seventy time seven.'"
--Matthew 18: 21-22 The Message

Psalm 130

Psalms 130

The Message

A pilgrim song

Help, GOD — the bottom has fallen out of my life!

Lord, I woke up discouraged this morning.

Master, hear my cry for help!

Listen hard! Open your ears! Listen to my cries for mercy.
Sometimes I don't feel you're listening.

If you, GOD, kept records on wrongdoings,

who would stand a chance?

Thank you for removing our sin as

far as the east is from the west when we confess to You.

As it turns out, forgiveness is your habit,

and that's why you're worshiped.

You are faithful and righteous to cleanse us

from all unrighteousness.
I pray to GOD — my life a prayer — and wait for

what he'll say and do.

May my lifesong sing to You this day.

My life's on the line before God, my Lord,

waiting and watching till morning,

waiting and watching till morning.

Even though there are no cattle in the stalls,

I still will praise You.O Israel, wait and watch for GOD —

with GOD's arrival comes love,

with GOD's arrival comes generous redemption.

Thank you, God, for Jesus, our Redeemer!

No doubt about it — he'll redeem Israel,

buy back Israel from captivity to sin.

I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on.

There will be an end to these struggles

but until that day comes

Still I will praise You,

still I will praise You.

Lord Jesus, may we get a glimpse of Your glory today.

-- michele

Asking God for Help

II Chronicles 13 - 16

But you asked GOD for help and he gave you the victory. GOD is always on the alert, constantly on the lookout for people who are totally committed to him. You were foolish to go for human help when you could have had God's help. Now you're in trouble — one round of war after another."

At that, Asa lost his temper. Angry, he put Hanani in the stocks. At the same time Asa started abusing some of the people.

A full account of Asa is written in The Chronicles of the Kings of Judah. In the thirty-ninth year of his reign Asa came down with a severe case of foot infection. He didn't ask GOD for help, but went instead to the doctors. Then Asa died; he died in the forty-first year of his reign. They buried him in a mausoleum that he had built for himself in the City of David. They laid him in a crypt full of aromatic oils and spices. Then they had a huge bonfire in his memory. 2 Chronicles 16:8-14 THE MESSAGE

As I read through today's Bible reading, I was reminded of when I was a first-time mom. Our son was at the age where he should have been sleeping through the night. My pediatrician gave me suggestions as what to do and my ladies home fellowship was giving me wonderful advice as what to do. I was growing more and more weary because our son wasn't sleeping through the night.

No one seemed to understand. If my son started crying too hard, it would easily trigger him to throw up. Then we would really be awake, because I was up changing his clothes and crib sheets. This went on for several weeks.

At some point, I realized that I had not asked Godfor help. I remember specifically praying Psalm 139, "Lord, you know my son, Terren, and how he is made. The doctor and friends are all giving me good advice but I haven't sought you for help. You know how tired I am and need Your help . . ." That very evening, Terren slept through the night!

God does want us to seek Him for help. I realized that He cares that we come to Him, our Creator. I try to remember this before I give someone else advice or ask, "Have you asked God about it?" I don't mean it to be a trite response but He does care for us and desires us to seek Him, first.

My son didn't sleep through the night every night after this. But God made Himself very evident and present that night.
But you asked GOD for help and he gave you the victory.

The Family Tree

I Chronicles 9 - 11

This is the complete family tree for all Israel, recorded in the Royal Annals of the Kings of Israel and Judah at the time they were exiled to Babylon because of their unbelieving and disobedient lives. I Chronicles 9:1

I was thinking as I was reading through all the names and how interconnected they are and how God preserved, always kept a remnant, to prepare the way of the Lord Jesus. God was careful to leave us the details in His word. I am amazed from those who have studied how these family groups are relevant today in our current events.

My mom did quite a bit of research on our family tree. It was surprising to find out that one line of the family had several preachers or ministers over several generations. I am also finding it interesting the interconnection of personal relationships in my life and how they are coming around full circle.

I don't know if I have the right words to illustrate what I am meaning or feeling.

When I was in ninth grade, my parents and I joined a new church that had an active youth choir ministry. The church at that time did not have a youth ministry as you see in churches today. Sonny Steed, the minister of music, has had an amazing impact on the kingdom of God. As I reflect on the people that have come through his ministry, many have gone on into full-time Christian service, or they are faithful servants in their churches and their children have gone on to full-time ministries. I am aware of the spiritual impact that is has and is going to have on the generations to come.

Just prior to my senior year in high school, the church called its first Minister of Youth. Although I had grown up in church, David Gentiles, was the first who taught me about the disciplines of the Christian walk; how to have a quiet time, meditating on the Word and other disciplines such as fasting, etc. We had our first discipleship weekend called "Salt/Light." My small group leader for that brief weekend was Don Piper. I don't remember if he was even married then. Don was a good friend of David's.

Just this week, I read Don's book Ninety Minutes in Heaven. In his book, he shares the impact that David had been in his life. Don later was on staff with Sonny Steed. I read the book with mixed feelings because David Gentiles is presently with the Lord since December 2009. David has also had a great spiritual impact on many lives, mine being one of them. When I think of David, I think of Jesus. He loved in that way. He had a special gift. David also believed God. His kind of belief is contagious.

I have always "believed" in God and I do have a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus. I have a growing awareness of God's presence and it is overwhelming. As I am reading through the Bible, I had been convicted about if I really believe that God is still powerful and can do great and mighty things. To this I say, "Yes!" and may we see a glimpse of His glory.

Lord, You are the great God!

He's the King of all kings, and the Lord of all lords, He's the great and mighty maker of all things. Yet this God of all gods, and Lord of all lords chose to give His Son for you and me. What a great God of all is He! He's a great God! He's the God of all gods!

Your Will be Done

Hezekiah said to Isaiah, "If GOD says it, it must be good." But he was thinking to himself, "It won't happen during my lifetime — I'll enjoy peace and security as long as I live." 2 Kings 20:19 THE MESSAGE

Isaiah had just shared with Hezekiah what was to come. It wasn't a pretty picture. Yet, Hezekiah's response was "If God says it, it must be good." As I am learning to live moment to moment, it is my desire to have that kind of attitude to rest in knowing God is good no matter what cirmcumstances I find myself in.

As we are commanded in Philippians 4: 4-9, Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your forbearing spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things; and the God of peace shall be with you.

Lord, help me to have an attitude of rejoicing, that confidence that comes from prayer and dwelling on the things that are true, good and honorable. Lord, if You say it, it must be good.

--michele

Just As I Am

2 Samuel 5 - 8

King David went in, took his place before GOD, and prayed: "Who am I, my Master GOD, and what is my family, that you have brought me to this place in life? But that's nothing compared to what's coming, for you've also spoken of my family far into the future, given me a glimpse into tomorrow, my Master GOD! What can I possibly say in the face of all this? You know me, Master GOD, just as I am. You've done all this not because of who I am but because of who you are — out of your very heart! — but you've let me in on it.

"This is what makes you so great, Master GOD! There is none like you, no God but you, nothing to compare with what we've heard with our own ears." 2 Samuel 7:18-23 THE MESSAGE

Believing God

I Samuel 18 - 24

Saul got word of the whereabouts of David and his men. He was sitting under the big oak on the hill at Gibeah at the time, spear in hand, holding court surrounded by his officials. He said, "Listen here, you Benjaminites! Don't think for a minute that you have any future with the son of Jesse! Do you think he's going to hand over choice land, give you all influential jobs? Think again. Here you are, conspiring against me, whispering behind my back — not one of you is man enough to tell me that my own son is making deals with the son of Jesse, not one of you who cares enough to tell me that my son has taken the side of this, this . . . outlaw!" 1 Samuel 22:6-8

David continued to live in desert hideouts and the backcountry wilderness hills of Ziph. Saul was out looking for him day after day, but God never turned David over to him. David kept out of the way in the wilderness of Ziph, secluded at Horesh, since it was plain that Saul was determined to hunt him down. 1 Samuel 23:14-15

"What does the king of Israel think he's doing? Who do you think you're chasing? A dead dog? A flea? GOD is our judge. He'll decide who is right. Oh, that he would look down right now, decide right now — and set me free of you!"
When David had finished saying all this, Saul said, "Can this be the voice of my son David?" and he wept in loud sobs. "You're the one in the right, not me," he continued. "You've heaped good on me; I've dumped evil on you. And now you've done it again — treated me generously. GOD put me in your hands and you didn't kill me. Why? When a man meets his enemy, does he send him down the road with a blessing? May GOD give you a bonus of blessings for what you've done for me today! I know now beyond doubt that you will rule as king. The kingdom of Israel is already in your grasp! Now promise me under GOD that you will not kill off my family or wipe my name off the books."
David promised Saul. Then Saul went home and David and his men went up to their wilderness refuge. 1 Samuel 24:14-22 THE MESSAGE

As I reflected on today's passage, I had more questions than answers.

Why was Saul afraid of David? Saul had been appointed the first king, chosen by God. Saul's fears were misdirected. Saul should have been concerned about his relationship with Holy God.

Why was David afraid of Saul? With God's help, he conquered the giant and several battles. He knew of God's mighty power, then why did he fear Saul and hideout? Why did he need to run away and hide?

God demonstrated His glory through David's encounter with Saul in the cave when both realized who they were in light of Holy God.

If I believe God to be who He says he is and His Word is truth, then why do I find myself afraid? I need to be concerned about my relationship with Holy God and that should determine my steps and how I approach the relationships around me. What does holiness look like in my daily life?

I've been thinking on the Lord's holiness throughout the day. I have thoughts and feelings that I can't put into words. Sometimes music communicates what I cannot say myself.

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain!

What do I know of Holy?

Judges 20: 17-28 The Message

17 The men of Israel, excluding Benjamin, mobilized four hundred divisions of sword-wielding fighting men.
18 They set out and went to Bethel to inquire of God. The People of Israel said, "Who of us shall be first to go into battle with the Benjaminites?" God said, "Judah goes first."
19 -21 The People of Israel got up the next morning and camped before Gibeah. The army of Israel marched out against Benjamin and took up their positions, ready to attack Gibeah. But the Benjaminites poured out of Gibeah and devastated twenty-two Israelite divisions on the ground.
22 -23 The Israelites went back to the sanctuary and wept before God until evening. They again inquired of God, "Shall we again go into battle against the Benjaminites, our brothers?" God said, "Yes. Attack."
24 -25 The army took heart. The men of Israel took up the positions they had deployed on the first day. On the second day, the Israelites again advanced against Benjamin. This time as the Benjaminites came out of the city, on this second day, they devastated another eighteen Israelite divisions, all swordsmen.
26 All the People of Israel, the whole army, were back at Bethel, weeping, sitting there in the presence of God. That day they fasted until evening. They sacrificed Whole-Burnt-Offerings and Peace-Offerings before God.
27 -28 And they again inquired of God. The Chest of God's Covenant was there at that time with Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, as the ministering priest. They asked, "Shall we again march into battle against the Benjaminites, our brothers? Or should we call it quits?"

And God said, "Attack. Tomorrow I'll give you victory."

As I read through God's word from the perspective as God's personal love letter to me, I am having to "work out my faith." As the Israelites desired the "good life," I realize that I too desire the good life. God desires obedience and holiness. What does that mean for me?

In my present struggles, I have questioned God. My counselor recently asked me difficult questions about what if I am exactly where God wants me to be. It is hard to comprehend but if the Lord is using it to bring me to Him, then let it be. I realize my desperate need for Him. I see that my desire for the good life is greater than my desire to know Him. Lord, bring about holiness in me.

In the passage above, the first two battles had many casualties and the battle was not won. In the third battle, the Israelites were given the victory.

Lord, I think of You and Your holiness. I'm in the midst of the battle. What do I know of holy?

By faith . . .

Joshua son of Nun secretly sent out from Shittim two men as spies: "Go. Look over the land. Check out Jericho." They left and arrived at the house of a harlot named Rahab and stayed there. The king of Jericho was told, "We've just learned that men arrived tonight to spy out the land. They're from the People of Israel." The king of Jericho sent word to Rahab: "Bring out the men who came to you to stay the night in your house. They're spies; they've come to spy out the whole country." The woman had taken the two men and hidden them. She said, "Yes, two men did come to me, but I didn't know where they'd come from. At dark, when the gate was about to be shut, the men left. But I have no idea where they went. Hurry up! Chase them — you can still catch them!" (She had actually taken them up on the roof and hidden them under the stalks of flax that were spread out for her on the roof.) So the men set chase down the Jordan road toward the fords. As soon as they were gone, the gate was shut. Before the spies were down for the night, the woman came up to them on the roof and said, "I know that GOD has given you the land. We're all afraid. Everyone in the country feels hopeless. We heard how GOD dried up the waters of the Red Sea before you when you left Egypt, and what he did to the two Amorite kings east of the Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom you put under a holy curse and destroyed. We heard it and our hearts sank. We all had the wind knocked out of us. And all because of you, you and GOD, your God, God of the heavens above and God of the earth below. "Now promise me by GOD. I showed you mercy; now show my family mercy. And give me some tangible proof, a guarantee of life for my father and mother, my brothers and sisters — everyone connected with my family. Save our souls from death!" "Our lives for yours!" said the men. "But don't tell anyone our business. When GOD turns this land over to us, we'll do right by you in loyal mercy." She lowered them down out a window with a rope because her house was on the city wall to the outside. She told them, "Run for the hills so your pursuers won't find you. Hide out for three days and give your pursuers time to return. Then get on your way." The men told her, "In order to keep this oath you made us swear, here is what you must do: Hang this red rope out the window through which you let us down and gather your entire family with you in your house — father, mother, brothers, and sisters. Anyone who goes out the doors of your house into the street and is killed, it's his own fault — we aren't responsible. But for everyone within the house we take full responsibility. If anyone lays a hand on one of them, it's our fault. But if you tell anyone of our business here, the oath you made us swear is canceled — we're no longer responsible." She said, "If that's what you say, that's the way it is," and sent them off. They left and she hung the red rope out the window. Joshua 2:1-21 THE MESSAGE

I am thankful the Lord left this story for us. God sees and knows our hearts and one woman knew in her heart that this was The God. It was by her faith that she and her family were saved. How history was changed because of her faith!

Also, God left us another historical marker as I had mentioned in a previous post:
http://strongbloomer.blogspot.com/2010/01/genesis-8-11.html These historical markers of the Bible and those in our own lives are important for our children and those who come behind us. Joshua erected a monument at The Gilgal, using the twelve stones that they had taken from the Jordan. And then he told the People of Israel, "In the days to come, when your children ask their fathers, 'What are these stones doing here?' tell your children this: 'Israel crossed over this Jordan on dry ground.' Joshua 4: 20-22

Make a New Start Deuteronomy 30 - 31

Come back to GOD, your God, and obey him with your whole heart and soul according to everything that I command you today, GOD, your God, will restore everything you lost; he'll have compassion on you; he'll come back and pick up the pieces from all the places where you were scattered. No matter how far away you end up, GOD, your God, will get you out of there and bring you back to the land your ancestors once possessed. It will be yours again. He will give you a good life and make you more numerous than your ancestors. Deuteronomy 30:2-5 THE MESSAGE

And you will make a new start, listening obediently to GOD, keeping all his commandments that I'm commanding you today. GOD, your God, will outdo himself in making things go well for you: you'll have babies, get calves, grow crops, and enjoy an all-around good life. Yes, GOD will start enjoying you again, making things go well for you just as he enjoyed doing it for your ancestors.

But only if you listen obediently to GOD, your God, and keep the commandments and regulations written in this Book of Revelation. Nothing halfhearted here; you must return to GOD, your God, totally, heart and soul, holding nothing back. Deuteronomy 30:8-10 THE MESSAGE



Lord, thank you for new starts. Your compassions are new every morning. You want nothing less than all of me. Your Word is full of promises but we have to do our part. Help me to listen and be obedient to You with my whole heart, soul and mind.


"And you shall love the Lord with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength." Mark 12:30

--michele

GOD, our God! GOD the one and only! Deuteronomy 5 - 7

As it turned out, when you heard the Voice out of that dark cloud and saw the mountain on fire, you approached me, all the heads of your tribes and your leaders, and said, "Our GOD has revealed to us his glory and greatness. We've heard him speak from the fire today! We've seen that God can speak to humans and they can still live. But why risk it further? This huge fire will devour us if we stay around any longer. If we hear GOD's voice anymore, we'll die for sure. Has anyone ever known of anyone who has heard the Voice of GOD the way we have and lived to tell the story?" "From now on, you go and listen to what GOD, our God, says and then tell us what GOD tells you. We'll listen and we'll do it." GOD heard what you said to me and told me, "I've heard what the people said to you. They're right — good and true words. What I wouldn't give if they'd always feel this way, continuing to revere me and always keep all my commands; they'd have a good life forever, they and their children! Deuteronomy 5:23-29 THE MESSAGE

Why didn't the Israelites want to come and hear God's voice? God said because they revered Him. As I read God's word, it lights up the ugliness and sin is exposed. I'm sure it is an uncomfortable place to be. As we approach God and His holiness, it is sure to expose what is within our hearts.

So be very careful to act exactly as GOD commands you. Don't veer off to the right or the left. Walk straight down the road GOD commands so that you'll have a good life and live a long time in the land that you're about to possess. Deuteronomy 5:32-33 THE MESSAGE

I love the promises of God's word! His word gives clear direction that "if" we do as He commands, "then" He will do what He says He will do. Sometimes we want to make following His will difficult when He gives very specific directions.

Attention, Israel!

GOD, our God! GOD the one and only!

Love GOD, your God, with your whole heart: love him with all that's in you, love him with all you've got!

Write these commandments that I've given you today on your hearts. Get them inside of you and then get them inside your children. Talk about them wherever you are, sitting at home or walking in the street; talk about them from the time you get up in the morning to when you fall into bed at night. Tie them on your hands and foreheads as a reminder; inscribe them on the doorposts of your homes and on your city gates. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 THE MESSAGE

Lord, continue to give me the desire to know Your word and to get it inside me so I may honestly reflect You to my children and those around me.

--michele

The king said, "Not on Your Life!" - Numbers 18 - 20

Moses sent emissaries from Kadesh to the king of Edom with this message: "A message from your brother Israel: You are familiar with all the trouble we've run into. Our ancestors went down to Egypt and lived there a long time. The Egyptians viciously abused both us and our ancestors. But when we cried out for help to God, he heard our cry. He sent an angel and got us out of Egypt. And now here we are at Kadesh, a town at the border of your land.

"Will you give us permission to cut across your land? We won't trespass through your fields or orchards and we won't drink out of your wells; we'll keep to the main road, the King's Road, straying neither right nor left until we've crossed your border."
The king of Edom answered, "Not on your life. If you so much as set a foot on my land, I'll kill you."

The People of Israel said, "Look, we'll stay on the main road. If we or our animals drink any water, we'll pay you for it. We're harmless—just a company of footsore travelers."

He answered again: "No. You may not come through." And Edom came out and blocked the way with a crowd of people brandishing weapons. Edom refused to let them cross through his land. So Israel had to detour around him. Numbers 20: 14 - 21 The Message

I realize my thoughts today aren't deep or necessarily meaningful but it is what came to mind as I read today's passage. When I was a child I couldn't comprehend numbers. Well, today I have a better grasp on them. Reading the book of Numbers and the 600,000 plus men that were counted did not take into account the total number of people such as women, children, cattle, goats, sheep and personal possessions. As I read, I realized that a million plus people were moving from Egypt toward the Promised Land (per Crabb's book it was over 2 million people). Wow!

In September 2005, Hurricane Rita was the 4th most instense hurricane on record and its target destination at the time was Houston. Because of what happened a month earlier in New Orleans from Hurricane Katrina, a mass exodous of people from the Gulf Coast cities started evacuating. It made national news. If you remember the mass of cars stuck on the highways trying to get away. My family was one of them.

As we traveled along, restaurants had run out of food, gas stations had no fuel, and the traffic moved only inches per hour. Because places had run out of food and supplies, they just closed. I remember our family needing a bathroom break. We walked over to a hotel and the lobby doors were locked. We knocked as asked if we could please use the restroom. The lady said she wasn't supposed to, but did let us in and locked the door behind her. As we came out of the restrooms, there were others at the door wanting in and the lady told them, "no." Unfortunately, I think their "no" was because of their skin color. We were all just "footsore travelers" very weary trying to move our families to a safer place.

The Bible does not tell us why the king said no to Moses; but, I can most certainly imagine why! Even though Moses said they would stick to the road to pass through, I imagine the king was concerned for the mass number of people and what it might do to his city. Think of the gridlock created as a million plus people moved through his town. Moses tried to plea with the king about what had happened to his people as they were fleeing from Egypt. I was pleaing with a hotel clerk just to let our family use a bathroom as we were fleeing the storm.

Hurricane Katrina and Rita forever changed how we look at things. My hometown has changed significantly because of the large influx of people from New Orleans that has taken up a permanent residence in my town. In the past, I may not have understood the impact of the Israelites traveling through the wilderness but have a little more understanding of the hardship they may have encountered along the way.

Lord, I do not always understand the thoughts that come to mind while I am reading through Your word. It doesn't seem all that significant. Thank you for a little more understanding and perspective.

--michele

Get off Your High Horse: Numbers 16 - 17

Getting on his high horse one day, Korah son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, along with a few Reubenites — Dathan and Abiram sons of Eliab, and On son of Peleth — rebelled against Moses. He had with him 250 leaders of the congregation of Israel, prominent men with positions in the Council. They came as a group and confronted Moses and Aaron, saying, "You've overstepped yourself. This entire community is holy and GOD is in their midst. So why do you act like you're running the whole show?" Numbers 16:1-3 THE MESSAGE

Have you ever been mift about something or gotten on your "high horse" to let someone know you weren't very happy about something that was going on in your life? I can imagine Moses and Aaron are standing on the ground when this group approaches on horseback to complain how Moses is handling his job. The men were sitting above them to demonstrate their strength or position. Moses' and Aaron's response was to throw themselves to the ground and call on God.

Moses continued to address the community: "This is how you'll know that it was GOD who sent me to do all these things and that it wasn't anything I cooked up on my own. If these men die a natural death like all the rest of us, you'll know that it wasn't GOD who sent me. But if GOD does something unprecedented — if the ground opens up and swallows the lot of them and they are pitched alive into Sheol — then you'll know that these men have been insolent with GOD." The words were hardly out of his mouth when the Earth split open. Earth opened its mouth and in one gulp swallowed them down, the men and their families, all the human beings connected with Korah, along with everything they owned. And that was the end of them, pitched alive into Sheol. The Earth closed up over them and that was the last the community heard of them. At the sound of their cries everyone around ran for dear life, shouting, "We're about to be swallowed up alive!" Numbers 16:28-34 THE MESSAGE

Grumbling broke out the next day . . . Numbers 16:41 THE MESSAGE

Unbelievable. After the people witnessed what had occurred, they began to grumble, again.

Have you ever after leaving a worship service, or quiet time, find yourself struggling with this very thing of grumbling? I have just spent time with our Father and immediately turn my thoughts to how I wish things were different. Reading 66 Love Letters and The Message is changing how I look at current circumstances. It turns my thoughts to wonder at what the Lord is doing and preparing to do in my life and those around me.

Lord, thank You for what You are doing in my heart and life. Thank You for Your word and Your personal love story.

--michele

The Whole Community was in an Uproar

Numbers 14 - 15

The whole community was in an uproar, wailing all night long. All the People of Israel grumbled against Moses and Aaron. The entire community was in on it: "Why didn't we die in Egypt? Or in this wilderness? Why has GOD brought us to this country to kill us? Our wives and children are about to become plunder. Why don't we just head back to Egypt? And right now!" Numbers 14:1-3 THE MESSAGE

The Israelites memories are so very short. In today's society of instant information and so much technology, I feel our memories are very, very short. We expect change to happen as quickly as hitting "enter" on our keyboards. The Israelites should have had the mindset that since God had helped us in Egypt, since He has guided us in the wilderness and since provided for us, Our God would not have brought us this far to kill us. God must have something mighty in store! Caleb had that kind of vision. I like what The Message says about Caleb:

"But my servant Caleb — this is a different story. He has a different spirit; he follows me passionately. I'll bring him into the land that he scouted and his children will inherit it." Numbers 14:24 THE MESSAGE


Lord, I am presently in that place where I can't see what is ahead. I don't want to be guilty of complaining about my current circumstances. Help me to see that since You have been faithful in Your word, since You have been faithful in the lives of others around me, since You have been faithful in my past, that I will have a "different spirit and follow you passionately." You have something mighty in store!

--michele

Is there a Caleb among Us?

Numbers 11 - 13

The people fell to grumbling over their hard life. GOD heard. When he heard his anger flared; then fire blazed up and burned the outer boundaries of the camp. The people cried out for help to Moses; Moses prayed to GOD and the fire died down. They named the place Taberah (Blaze) because fire from GOD had blazed up against them. Numbers 11:1-3 THE MESSAGE

I remember in our earlier readings that when we complain, we are really complaining against God. The last few days have been really difficult and felt inwardly the struggle to complain versus the message the Lord may have for me to shape me to be more like Him. Reading through the Bible as a personal love letter is changing my perspective and the events that life bring my way. I have to stop and pause and see what God may be doing in me and my heart.

GOD answered Moses, "So, do you think I can't take care of you? You'll see soon enough whether what I say happens for you or not." Numbers 11:23 THE MESSAGE

I was reminded again that God does take care of me even in the difficult times. God IS faithful!

Miriam and Aaron talked against Moses behind his back because of his Cushite wife (he had married a Cushite woman). They said, "Is it only through Moses that GOD speaks? Doesn't he also speak through us?"

GOD overheard their talk.

Now the man Moses was a quietly humble man, more so than anyone living on Earth. GOD broke in suddenly on Moses and Aaron and Miriam saying, "Come out, you three, to the Tent of Meeting." The three went out. GOD descended in a Pillar of Cloud and stood at the entrance to the Tent. He called Aaron and Miriam to him. When they stepped out, he said,

Listen carefully to what I'm telling you.
If there is a prophet of GOD among you,
I make myself known to him in visions,
I speak to him in dreams.
But I don't do it that way with my servant Moses;
he has the run of my entire house;
I speak to him intimately, in person,
in plain talk without riddles:
He ponders the very form of GOD.
So why did you show no reverence or respect
in speaking against my servant, against Moses?

The anger of GOD blazed out against them. And then he left. Numbers 12:1-9 THE MESSAGE

I have been guilty of this, maybe not outwardly, but within my thought life. I have wondered why someone has been put into leadership or given an opportunity to do something. When I examine my heart through the lens of Scripture, I am like Miriam. Ouch! That stings!

Caleb interrupted, called for silence before Moses and said, "Let's go up and take the land — now. We can do it." Numbers 13:30 THE MESSAGE

I just love it when there is a "Caleb" among us! Who are the Calebs in your life?

Lord, it has been some difficult days. I trust in You. You are faithful to do what You say! Help me not to complain! Thank you for the Calebs you have put in my life that generate excitement that can see through Your eyes what is in store!

--michele

Numbers 7 - 10

Numbers 7 - 10

http://covertocoverchronologically.blogspot.com/2010/02/february-15-numbers-8-10-leave-me-alone.html

--michele

Numbers 5 - 6

GOD spoke to Moses: "Tell Aaron and his sons, This is how you are to bless the People of Israel. Say to them,

GOD bless you and keep you,

GOD smile on you and gift you,

GOD look you full in the face and make you prosper.

In so doing, they will place my name on the People of Israel —

I will confirm it by blessing them." Numbers 6:22-27 THE MESSAGE

Lord, place Your name on me.

--michele

http://covertocoverchronologically.blogspot.com/2010/02/january-13-numbers-5-6-shalompeace-in.html

Numbers 3 - 4

And that's the story of their numbering, as God commanded Moses. Numbers 4: 49

http://covertocoverchronologically.blogspot.com/2010/02/february-12-numbers-3-4-something-wrong.html

Lord, you know what is before me. Thank you for your faithfulness and strength.

--michele

Numbers 1 - 2

The People of Israel did everything that God commanded Moses. They did it all. Numbers 1: 54

Leviticus 26 - 27

"I'll set up my residence in your neighborhood; I won't avoid or shun you; I'll stroll through your streets. I'll be your God; you'll be my people. I am God, your personal God who rescued you from Egypt so that you would no longer be slaves to the Egyptians. I ripped off the harness of your slavery so that you can move about freely." Leviticus 26: 11-13 The Message

In my first blog, I wrote that I had not read the entire Bible through from cover to cover. I have read a lot of the Bible but not in its entirety. Leviticus is one of the books that I have read very little. It was tedious at times. Some random thoughts that I had as we finished the "third" love letter is:

• God is a holy God. I have been convicted that we (I) too often approach God casually. I have an ongoing struggle in my heart regarding this. Personally I don't want to treat God as common and ordinary. I question how we as a church, the Bride of Christ, are to approach God in our corporate worship and study of His word. I question what to do with the messages God is laying on my heart. I know I have to work on my own short comings in this area but what about the church as a whole?


• I liked the above verse that says, "I am God, your personal God." I am frequently amazed that the KING of all kings and LORD of all lords, desires to fellowship and have a personal relationship with me. I was watching a gold finch outside my office window this morning flit and float from branch to branch and was reminded that God knows when a "sparrow falls" so how much more He cares for you and for me! Wow!


• I thought about my father this morning. Today would have been his birthday. I have missed him greatly in the last couple of years wishing he were here so I could talk with him about the struggles that I have been experiencing and get his wisdom and insight. The Holy Spirit nudged me that God alone is enough. It is okay to miss my dad, but the Lord hears me and has all wisdom to meet my needs. God is a personal God. Sometimes it is hard that the Lord is not present with us in a physical body. He left us the Holy Spirit to dwell within us. I guess it is a struggle I'll continue to have on this earthly side. Sometimes I just need a real hug.

Lord, thank You for Your love letters to us. Open my eyes and heart as I continue to read Your personal message to us.

--michele

Leviticus 24 - 24

Sound the ram's horn all over the land. Sanctify the fiftieth year; make it a holy year. Proclaim freedom all over the land to everyone who lives in it—a Jubilee for you. Leviticus 25: 9

Leviticus 22 - 23

". . .consecrate to me with reverence so they won't desecrate my holy name. I am God." Leviticus 22: 2

"I am God who makes them holy." Leviticus 22: 9

"I am God who makes them holy." Leviticus 22: 16

"Do what I tell you; live what I tell you. I am God."
"Don't desecrate my holy name. I insist on being treated with holy reverence among the People of Israel. I am God who makes you holy and brought you out of Egypt to be your God. I am God." Leviticus 22: 31-33

Again, it is the Lord who makes us holy.

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our "God is a consuming fire." Hebrews 12: 28-29

Lord, consume the things in my life that do not bring reverence and awe to You. Please find my worship acceptable and pleasing in Your sight. You are God!

--michele

Leviticus 16-21

"Set yourselves apart for a holy life. Live a holy life, because I am GOD, your God. Do what I tell you; live the way I tell you. I am the GOD who makes you holy." Leviticus 20:7-8 The Message

It is the Lord God who makes us holy:

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus' blood and righteousness
I dare not trust the sweetest frame
But wholly lean on Jesus' name

When darkness veils his loving face
I rest on His unchanging grace
In every high and stormy gale
My anchor holds within the veil

When He shall come with trumpet sound
Oh may I then in Him be found
Dressed in His righteousness alone
Faultless to stand before the throne

On Christ the solid rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
All other ground is sinking sand

Leviticus 14 - 15

GOD spoke to Moses and Aaron, "When you enter the land of Canaan, which I'm giving to you as a possession, and I put a serious fungus in a house in the land of your possession, the householder is to go and tell the priest, 'I have some kind of fungus in my house.' The priest is to order the house vacated until he can come to examine the fungus, so that nothing in the house is declared unclean. When the priest comes and examines the house, if the fungus on the walls of the house has greenish or rusty swelling that appears to go deeper than the surface of the wall, the priest is to walk out the door and shut the house up for seven days. On the seventh day he is to come back and conduct another examination; if the fungus has spread in the walls of the house, he is to order that the stones affected by the fungus be torn out and thrown in a garbage dump outside the city. He is to make sure the entire inside of the house is scraped and the plaster that is removed be taken away to the garbage dump outside the city. Then he is to replace the stones and replaster the house. Leviticus 14:33-42 THE MESSAGE

I can't say that reading these last two chapters were easy. I can't say I completely understand its purpose. So how do I apply this to my life? I can honestly say that I feel my heart is the house in which it has this ugly fungus or sin that goes "deeper than the surface." As the Lord has brought in the light of His Word, it has illuminated the dark places of my heart. As we work to tear out and throw in the dump the affected areas of my heart, upon reinspection, there is evidence of my fungus so that we have to scrap the entire inside of my heart and replaster it. It is a work in progress and it doesn't feel good and the work is hard.

Lord, this very day I need you to continue to replaster my heart. In the midst of this reconstruction, I feel vulnernable to discouragement. I need to feel Your presence and peace.

--michele

Leviticus 11 - 13

"Make yourselves holy for I am holy." Leviticus 11: 44 THE MESSAGE

Some days are just harder than others. I don't feel very holy. Thank you for the Lord Jesus and His righteousness!

--michele

Leviticus 8 - 10

Aaron's sons, took their censers, put hot coals and incense in them, and offered "strange" fire to God—something God had not commanded. Fire blazed out from God and consumed them—they died in God's presence.

Moses said to Aaron, "This is what God meant when he said,

To the one who comes near me, I will show myself holy;
Before all the people, I will show my glory."

Aaron was silent. Leviticus 10:1-2

Distinguish between the holy and the common . . . Leviticus 10: 10

I know others may read this passage and draw other conclusions or thoughts about its meaning; but, because of the events that have recently occurred in my life this is what stuck out at me.

Something has bothered me greatly at the church where I was attending. It is the frequent use of common slang words from the pulpit. I discussed my concerns with the pastor via several emails sent back and forth. Ultimately, we are agreed to disagree. My teenage daughter was also having great difficulty with it that she felt led to speak with him in person. She was very brave and lovingly shared her thoughts and feelings on the matter. I am grateful that she is being sensitive to the Holy Spirit and followed her convictions.

My concern for his use of language is about protecting the Bride of Christ. God is a Holy God. I'm afraid in our attempt to be "seeker-sensitive" that we are making the things of God common and ordinary. Have we gotten so casual in our approach that we think we can use any words for the cause of Christ? Can we have a casual relationship with a Holy God? God help us!

The irony is that the message given was on grace. It is not my heart's desire to be legalistic but to remember that God IS Holy! How do we "distinguish between the holy and the common?"

Lord, help me not to approach You casually in my attitudes and spirit. I love You, Lord.

--michele

Leviticus 5 - 7

When you are guilty, immediately confess the sin that you've committed . . . Leviticus 5: 6

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. I John 1: 9

The priest will make atonement for you and any of these sins you've committed and you're forgiven. Leviticus 5: 13

(Jesus) And having been made perfect, He became to all those who obey Him the source of eternal salvation, being designated by God as a high priest. Hebrews 5: 9-10

If anyone sins by breaking any of the commandments of God which must not be broken, but without being aware of it at the time, the moment he does realize his guilt he is held responsible. Leviticus 5: 17

Hence, also, He is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. Hebrews 7: 25

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound
Amazing Love, now flowing down
From hands and feet
That were nailed to the tree.
His grace flows down and covers me.

And covers me.
And covers me.
And covers me.

Grace, grace.
God's grace.
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within.

Grace, grace.
God's grace.
Grace that is greater than all our sin.

Leviticus 1 - 4

"In this way, the priest makes atonement for him on account of his sin and he's forgiven." Leviticus 4:35 THE MESSAGE

But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things to come, He entered through the greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this creation; and not through the blood of goats and calves, but through His own blood, He entered the holy place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. Hebrews 9:11-12 NASB

How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? Hebrews 9:14 NASB

Exodus 39 - 40

Moses finished the work.

The Cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the Glory of GOD filled The Dwelling. Moses couldn't enter the Tent of Meeting because the Cloud was upon it, and the Glory of GOD filled The Dwelling.

Whenever the Cloud lifted from The Dwelling, the People of Israel set out on their travels, but if the Cloud did not lift, they wouldn't set out until it did lift. The Cloud of GOD was over The Dwelling during the day and the fire was in it at night, visible to all the Israelites in all their travels. Exodus 40:33-38 THE MESSAGE

Exodus 36 - 38

The men were eager to get to get started and engage in the work. Exodus 36: 2

I find myself discouraged. Since the last few months, I have awoken rested, but yet desire to hit the snooze and hang in bed for another 15 minutes or so. I do not find myself eager to get started and engage in my daily work.

I am not sure I understand the feelings. Last year was one of the most difficult I think I have experienced. The Lord divinely intervened and He is continuing to work and restore. For that I am extremely grateful. I am excited about what He is doing and going to do.

In Exodus, each of the artisans began their work on the elaborate tapestries. I feel like that I am the tapestry and the Lord is the weaver. I just don't know what the final design or picture is going to be. I think I tangled up the threads and it is taking some work for the Weaver to to straighten them out so He can continue the design He is creating.

Lord, in the process, help restore my eagerness to face each day. I know Your promises are true. Help me not to get impatient while I wait on You. You are the Divine Weaver of the tapestry of my life.

--michele

Exodus 33 -35

Moses said, "Please. Let me see your Glory."

GOD said, "I will make my Goodness pass right in front of you; I'll call out the name, GOD, right before you. I'll treat well whomever I want to treat well and I'll be kind to whomever I want to be kind."

GOD continued, "But you may not see my face. No one can see me and live."

GOD said, "Look, here is a place right beside me. Put yourself on this rock. When my Glory passes by, I'll put you in the cleft of the rock and cover you with my hand until I've passed by. Then I'll take my hand away and you'll see my back. But you won't see my face." Exodus 33:18-23 THE MESSAGE

When I read today's passage, the old hymn, "Rock of Ages" came to my mind. Lord, hide me in the cleft so we may see the shadow of Your glory.

Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
let me hide myself in thee;
let the water and the blood,
from thy wounded side which flowed,
be of sin the double cure;
save from wrath and make me pure.

Not the labors of my hands
can fulfill thy law's commands;
could my zeal no respite know,
could my tears forever flow,
all for sin could not atone;
thou must save, and thou alone.

Nothing in my hand I bring,
simply to the cross I cling;
naked, come to thee for dress;
helpless, look to thee for grace;
foul, I to the fountain fly;
wash me, Savior, or I die.

While I draw this fleeting breath,
when mine eyes shall close in death,
when I soar to worlds unknown,
see thee on thy judgment throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
let me hide myself in thee.

--michele

Exodus 30 - 32

'Above all, keep my Sabbaths, the sign between me and you, generation after generation, to keep the knowledge alive that I am the GOD who makes you holy.' Exodus 31:13-14 THE MESSAGE

There are six days for work but the seventh day is Sabbath, pure rest, holy to GOD. Exodus 31:15 THE MESSAGE

At this stage of life I'm currently in, I often find myself frazzled. Having three teenagers involved in band, choir and committed to their youth group and Bible study, has me running almost every night of the week. Whew! I get tired when I dwell upon it. I think God knew what He was doing when He directed us to a day of rest.

For the Jewish community, the Sabbath started at sundown on Friday evening. I think we often equate our Sabbath as Sunday. I know for many that Sunday is often busy or busier because of the additional activities that can often occur at our church campuses.

I think we need to stop and give pause and think about the Lord's command. I know for me personally that I need a day to stop, rest and regroup. Almost every Sunday after worship and lunch, I take a much needed nap. I have been doing so as far back as I can remember. I need it and need the Lord to renew my strength. I think He gave us that command for a reason.

Lord, thank You for Your Word. Help me to remember to rest, to be still and know that You are God.

--michele

Exodus 28 - 29

I'll move in and live with the Israelites. I'll be their God. They'll realize that I am their GOD who brought them out of the land of Egypt so that I could live with them. I am GOD, your God. Exodus 29: 45-46 THE MESSAGE

Lord, thank you that you are my GOD that has brought me out of the dark wilderness of my heart. You were there when my son was bitten by a snake. You were there when my daughter was having heart surgery. You were there while I was going through the dark places. You brought me out so I could realize you are living within me and that you are my GOD. Thank you for moving and living within me.

Exodus 25 - 27

GOD spoke to Moses: "Tell the Israelites that they are to set aside offerings for me. Receive the offerings from everyone who is willing to give. These are the offerings I want you to receive from them: gold, silver, bronze; blue, purple, and scarlet material; fine linen; goats' hair; tanned rams' skins; dolphin skins; acacia wood; lamp oil; spices for anointing oils and for fragrant incense; onyx stones and other stones for setting in the Ephod and the Breastpiece. Let them construct a Sanctuary for me so that I can live among them." Exodus 25:1-8 THE MESSAGE

Right now in our home we have been having a reoccuring discussion on tatoos and body piercings with our three teenagers. It seems to be a trend in the young people in our church to get a "Christian" tatoo.

God gave Moses very specific instructions for the construction of a Sanctuary for Him to "live among them." When Jesus came, God no longer dwelled in a temple made of human hands, but came to live within us. If we are God's temple, and made in His image, why would we want to put a permanent mark our bodies? When I harmonize the principles of the Old and New Testament, I find it hard to believe for a Christ-follower that tatooing our bodies is acceptable to God.

I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12: 1-2 NASB

I have been thankful seeing the Lord work in our children's lives and seeing them work out their faith and it becoming their own. I pray that they continue to be open to the Holy Spirit as they deal with difficult issues each and every day.

--michele

Note: Today's thoughts were not meant to be a biblical answer about tatoos. It came to mind while doing the day's Bible reading and the discussion taking place in our family. What is amazing to me is seeing our children get into God's word and seeking answers for themselves and not just taking what I believe or what someone else is saying. . . they are going to The Source. The postings are a reflection of the things that have come to mind. The Bible is the final authority.

Exodus 22 - 24

Now get yourselves ready. I'm sending my Angel ahead of you to guard you in your travels, to lead you to the place that I've prepared. Pay close attention to him. Obey him. Don't go against him. He won't put up with your rebellions because he's acting on my authority. But if you obey him and do everything I tell you, I'll be an enemy to your enemies, I'll fight those who fight you. Exodus 23: 20-24 The Message

I am not currently on a physical journey; but certainly feel that I am traveling on a spiritual journey to an unknown place. Over the last three months, feeling led to get ready, to a place that the Lord has prepared or is preparing. I need to pay close attention to Him and obey.

I was reminded of John 14: 15-21 NIV: "If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him."

From Exodus and John, it talks about if we obey then the Lord will . . ."fight those that fight you" and "show himself to him."

I am not sure where I am in this journey but I do desire for the Lord to show Himself. I am expectant and hopeful. This last week the road has been rough. I want to walk on but have found my pace is a little slower and that I am tiring.

Lord, help me to continue on and You fight the enemy that desires to get me off course and keep me from seeing You.

--michele

Exodus 13 - 15

Then I'll make Pharaoh's heart stubborn again and he'll chase after them. And I'll use Pharaoh and his army to put my Glory on display. Then the Egyptians will realize that I am GOD." And that's what happened. Exodus 14:3-4 THE MESSAGE

I wonder, don't you think the Israelites also needed to know that He is GOD? From the Scripture it appears that they also needed the reminder.

Moses spoke to the people: "Don't be afraid. Stand firm and watch GOD do his work of salvation for you today. Take a good look at the Egyptians today for you're never going to see them again. GOD will fight the battle for you. And you? You keep your mouths shut!"Exodus 14:13-14 THE MESSAGE

The Israelites were very afraid. What were the directions given them? To stand firm quietly and watch God fight the battle.

Sing to GOD — what a victory! He pitched horse and rider into the sea! Exodus 15:21 THE MESSAGE

Can you imagine the excitement? I think I would have been shouting, "Did you see that! Unbelievable! Wow, God is amazing!" and wonder why I was afraid in the first place.

Go out with joy and be led forth with peace this very day!

--michele

Exodus 10 - 12

God continued to harden Pharaoh's heart . . . so that all would know that "I am God."

GOD said to Moses: "Go to Pharaoh. I've made him stubborn, him and his servants, so that I can force him to look at these signs and so you'll be able to tell your children and grandchildren how I toyed with the Egyptians, like a cat with a mouse; you'll tell them the stories of the signs that I brought down on them, so that you'll all know that I am GOD." Exodus 10: 1-2 THE MESSAGE

Lord, you are the GOD of all gods and LORD of all lords! May we live daily in awe and reverence of You.

--michele

. . . for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Philippians 2: 13 NIV

Exodus 7 - 9


But I will harden Pharaoh's heart that I may multiply My signs and My wonders in the land of Egypt. Exodus 7: 3-4 NASB

Yet Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he did not listen to them, as the LORD had said. Exodus 7: 13 NASB

. . . and Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he did not listen to them, as the LORD had said. Exodous 7: 22 NASB

But when Pharaoh saw that there was relief, he hardened his heart and did not listen to them, as the LORD had said. Exodus 8: 15 NASB

But Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he did not listen to them, as the LORD had said. Exodus 8:19 NASB

But Pharaoh hardened his heart this time also, and he did not let the people go. Exodous 8: 32 NASB

But the heart of Pharaoh was hardened, and he did not let the people go. Exodus 9: 7 NASB

And the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he did not listen to them, just as the LORD had spoken to Moses. Exodus 9: 12 NASB

But when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunder had ceased, he sinned again and hardened his heart, he and his servants. 35 And Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he did not let the sons of Israel go, just as the LORD had spoken through Moses. Exodous 9: 34-35 NASB


Numerous times, it says God hardened Pharaoh's heart. A few times it reads that Pharaoh hardened his own heart.


Lord, please keep our hearts softened and open to You! May we see Your glory multiplied!


--michele

Exodus 4 - 6

And Moses answered, "Look at me. I stutter. Why would Pharaoh listen to me?" Exodus 6:30 THE MESSAGE

Oh Moses! I can relate to you. Even though God speaks to you through the burning bush and shows you signs and wonders, you still question your ability to lead the people, to speak to Pharoah. You don't get it. It is God at work in you and through you. It is not in your own power that you are going to all these things. Through Exodus 6, you have questioned God at least five times. Don't you know Who you are talking to?

I have at times felt inadequate and unusable. Depsite Moses' feelings, God still used him to accomplish His purpose. We will have to continue reading the story . . .

--michele

Many years later the king of Egypt died. The Israelites groaned under their slavery and cried out. Their cries for relief from their hard labor ascended to God:

God listened to their groanings.

God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob.

God saw what was going on with Israel.

God understood. Exodus 2: 23-25 THE MESSAGE

God still hears us. God still remembers. God still sees. God still understands!

Praise be to GOD, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob sent me to you.' This has always been my name, and this is how I always will be known. Exodus 3:15 THE MESSAGE

Genesis 48 - 50

All these are the tribes of Israel, the twelve tribes. And this is what their father said to them as he blessed them, blessing each one with his own special farewell blessing. Genesis 49:28 THE MESSAGE

I thought of many things when I read the entire Scripture reading for today; but one sticks out in my mind. Jacob was aware that he was near death and took time to bless each one of his sons with their own personal message. My father struggled with multiple myeloma and when he came near to his own death, he made sure to give me his personal message and blessing. Not only did he give it to me, he also prayed and gave one to my only child at the time, my son, Terren, who was only six months old.

I am thankful and grateful for this special memory. I can thankfully say that both my parents affirmed me often as I grew. I am often overcome with overwhelming emotion at God's goodness to me and my family over the years. I sometimes cannot comprehend His grace and mercy.

Jacob's sons continued to carry out his instructions to the letter. Genesis 50:12 THE MESSAGE

May I continue, Lord, to carry out the instructions and blessing of my father.

--michele