Monday, February 28, 2011

G-d's calendar: 25th day, 12th month, year 5771

Genesis 1:1
In the beginning G-d created the heaven and the earth.

John 1:1,2
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with G-d, and the Word was G-d.
The same was in the beginning with G-d.

Understanding an eternal G-d is not an easy concept for the finite human mind. Understanding or explaining Y'hshuwah, His everlasting Son, or even Servant without end, is also difficult, especially with His earthly birth record. To know and to explain the mind of G-d is beyond me, but to know He placed the light He created on the first day, into human form, and sent Him to earth doesn't require my understanding, only my acceptance.

Sunday, February 27, 2011

G-d's calendar: 24th day, 12th month, year 5771

Psalm 19:7,8
The law of YHWH is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of YHWH is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of YHWH are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of YHWH is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Matthew 6:22
The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.

If only people could see the light. G-d's Word can be trusted. If we can believe John 3:16 for spiritual eternal life, then we can be obedient to Deuteronomy for a victorious earthly life. I pray we get our ideas and interpretations off of our own focus and actually humble ourselves before G-d that we might see His light.

Friday, February 25, 2011

G-d's calendar: 22nd day, 12th month, year 5771

Isaiah 53:8
He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.

John 1:29,30
The next day John seeth Y'hshuwah coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of G-d, which taketh away the sin of the world. This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me.

Isaiah and John the Baptist are both speaking of the Messiah. One, of course, prophesied of Him and His purpose, that He would be recognized upon His arrival At His arrival, John, both announced His identity and confirmed the prophecy spoken several centuries earlier.

Thursday, February 24, 2011

G-d's calendar: 21st day, 12th month, year 5771

Psalm 37:25
I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.

I Timothy 6:17
Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living G-d, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;

We have witnessed a strange dichotomy take place in our nation's churches the last 20 years that completely defy these passages in G-d's Word. These Scriptures address the extremes that have become prevalent in our society - prosperity and poverty. Keep in mind, this devotion was written about 10 years before the Great Repression of 2007. These verses tell us we needn't worry about "stuff." We don't need to focus on acquiring, and now our economy indicates we shouldn't have focused on acquiring, nor should we ever find ourselves begging. We have a very interesting thing happening now. We have the wealthy begging from the poor and middle class and it's called "asking for donations" and it was working well, be it large government charities or mega churches.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

G-d's calendar: 20th day, 12th month, year 5771

Proverbs 2:6
For YHWH giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.

I Corinthians 12:8
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;

I wonder if, when we settled for what used to be called "common sense" was when many people quit seeking the wisdom of G-d. Unfortunately now, we don't even see much common sense. That has been replaced with therapy and twelve step programs. Those two "would be solutions" have led to what? We now have a society that focuses on problems, not solutions and certainly not responsibility to the G-d of the Bible. He doesn't fit into the requirements of humanistic spiritualism, either. YHWH is not a god of our understanding - He is the Master and Creator of life.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

G-d's calendar: 19th day, 12th month, year 5771

Psalms 25:10
All the paths of YHWH are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.

Revelation 14:12
Here is the steadfast endurance of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of G-d, and the faith of Y'hshuwah.

So many of those calling themselves G-d's people claim to believe or be unaware that G-d's people are still to be obedient to His Word. Revelation clearly tells us the evidence of a saint's faith in Y'hshuwah is demonstrated though obedience to G-d's Commandments. Grace changed 248 statutes of 613. Those were the commandments of sacrifice, that were fully accomplished and finalized at Calvary. The other 365 are to be kept if we are to be found to be "steadfast enduring saints" keeping the faith of Y'hshuwah.

Monday, February 21, 2011

G-d's calendar: 18th day, 12th month, year 5771

Isaiah 8:10
Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for G-d is with us.

Acts 5:38, 39
And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: But if it be of G-d, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against G-d.

This is simple. If the focus or direction is of G-d and His people are walking in obedience, it cannot be stopped. But if it is not of G-d, it will soon end or change direction. Look around and ask G-d. He has stated over and over in His Word, that the battle is not ours. We are called to stand and speak G-d's truth. Falsehoods and evil will do one of three things. It will fall away, end, or entertain itself and those with self-serving itching ears. We must hear G-d for His plan and be ready to walk in His direction.

Sunday, February 20, 2011

G-d's calendar: 17th day, 12th month, year 5771

Isaiah 53:5
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

II Corinthians 5:21
For He hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of G-d in him.

This is Y'hshuwah. He is our Messiah. He did all of this that we might have forgiveness and life. Adonai G-d loved us so much, He made this plan. G-d Himself sent the price of redemption, the Name Y'hshuwah means G-d is salvation. If we fully place our trust in YHWH, seek YHWH, live in Covenant with YHWH, we have the promise written in Isaiah by the sacrifice of Y'hshuwah.

Friday, February 18, 2011

G-d's calendar: 15th day, 12th month, year 5771

Isaiah 64:6
But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

Romans 3:23
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of G-d;

Have you sinned? According to G-d's Word, by definition the answer should be, "yes." Have you ever tried to clear up the sin yourself? Have you chosen the course of action to be taken regarding the remedy for sin? Or have you simply rationalized it and justified it, rather than attempt to make amends? G-d's Word also call that sin. G-d is gloriously perfect, anything less than perfection is unacceptable. And HE sees our acts of self righteousness in the same way you might look at the "oil rags" in the garage. They aren't even fit to be washed with anything of value. Most of us don't even want them in the washing machine . . .

Thursday, February 17, 2011

G-d's calendar: 14th day, 12th month, year 5771

Genesis 18:14
Is any thing too hard YHWH? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.

Luke 1:36,37
And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. For with G-d nothing shall be impossible.

These two births are, of course, well known to even casual Bible readers. One Scripture announces the birth of Isaac and the other, John the Baptist. I find something interesting. Isaac was born about 2,000 years after creation and John the Baptist arrived about 2,000 years later, just months before the Messiah. I know, G-d still works the same way, even now 2,000 years later, again. Even now, nothing is too hard for YHWH.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

G-d's calendar: 13th day, 12th month, year 5771

Proverbs 25:4
Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer.

I Peter 1:7
That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Y'hshuwah Messiah:

G-d's Word uses the analogy of precious metals in reference to HIS people. Right now, we can see a marked increase on earth of the value of precious metals, monetarily. But, precious metals must be purified before they are fit for the plan of the silversmith or jeweler. Before gold or silver can be a work of beauty, the artisan must heat it so the dross or impurities come to the surface of the liquid metal, for removal. Have you ever noticed, the reflection that can be seen in pure, highly polished silver or gold? Just as in our lives, G-d often has to "turn the heat up" for us to give up the things in our life that would keep us from what He has planned. As "the heat is on" we are being refined. Remember, G-d is bringing out everything that would impede our reflection of Him.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

G-d's calendar: 12th day, 12th month, year 5771

Isaiah 42:3
A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth.

Matthew 12:20
A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory.

Here is one of the many examples that the New Testament confirms the Old Testament. It does not replace it, correct it, eliminate it, nor render it obsolete. Much of what we read in the New Testament is about the earthly life of Y'hshuwah that literally and perfectly fulfilled the Old Testament. Truth be known, both Testaments focus of G-d's plan of redemption and revelation of what HE expects from HIS people, as well as the Instructions to accomplish obedience.

Monday, February 14, 2011

G-d's calendar: 11th day, 12th month, year 5771

Genesis 2:24
Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.

Ephesians 5:31
For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.

Nobody is to get between a married couple. Of course, if G-d didn't join them, or if they get out of G-d's will, it seems they allow everything to get between them. Once again, we see where G-d confirmed HIS Word: Old and New Testaments. Do not be deceived. A decision between two people or even a license from the state does not mean that G-d has caused a man and woman to be one flesh, but a marriage is not to be tampered with. Sadly, our society has literally mocked what G-d has ordained. We all recognize "the other woman" or single co-workers that gossip and stir trouble, but G-d's Word gives very clear warning that often it is family that comes between a couple.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

G-d's calendar: 10th day, 12th month, year 5771

I Samuel 1:17
Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace: and the G-d of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of HIM.

Luke 7:6,7
Then Y'hshuwah went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof: Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed.

All it takes for whatever the problem, whatever the request, whatever the need;
G-d's answer is always the answer.
G-d's answer is alway in direct correlation between HIS Will and the faith and humility of the request.

Friday, February 11, 2011

G-d's calendar: 8th day, 12th month, year 5771

Jeremiah 3:19
But I said, How shall I put thee among the children, and give thee a pleasant land, a goodly heritage of the hosts of nations? and I said, Thou shalt call me, My Father; and shalt not turn away from me.

John 1:12
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of G-d, even to them that believe on His name:

We must take care always that we keep our focus on G-d, not HIS gifts. The bottom line of humanity is thus: when life is good we shift our focus to the "goodies" rather than maintaining our eyes on the One that is goodness. G-d provides abundantly, but . . . He is to be our focus. I watched our grandson years ago at his birthday party right before writing this devotion. His eyes lit up with the gifts and he said, "Thank you," but he was totally immersed in the gifts. They had his complete focus. Now, he was only 3 at the time. So many of G-d's people live as though is it their 3rd birthday.

Thursday, February 10, 2011

G-d's calendar: 7th day, 12th month, year 5771

Isaiah 49:6
yea, HE saith, It is too light a thing that thou shouldest be My servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.

Acts 1:8
But ye shall receive power, when the Holy Spirit is come upon you: and ye shall be my witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea and Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

The message of redemption in Y'hshuwah to be brought to right standing with G-d. To be G-d's people in relationship and obedience. The true Good News doesn't divide the Bible. Anything less than that is not the fullness of the Good News. Y'hshuwah came that we might be forgiven and restored.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

G-d's calendar: 6th day, 12th month, year 5771

Proverbs 30:5,6
Every word of G-d is pure: He is a shield unto them that put their trust in Him. Add thou not unto His words, lest He reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

II Timothy 3:16
All Scripture is given by inspiration of G-d, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

The only absolute on this earth today is The Word of G-d. There is no reason to doubt It and It is clear instruction that we can know. G-d's Word stands without additional input, although It seems to draw plenty. G-d's Word provides the instruction, direction, and solution; regardless of the circumstances we face in our lives today. HIS Word stands forever, without correction, addition, deletion, alternate Plan B, or excuse. HIS Word stands perfect in HIS righteousness.

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

G-d's calendar: 5th day, 12th month, year 5771

Jeremiah 33:9
And it shall be to me a name of joy, a praise and an honour before all the nations of the earth, which shall hear all the good that I do unto them: and they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness and for all the prosperity that I procure unto it.

I Peter 4:11
If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of G-d; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which G-d giveth: that G-d in all things may be glorified through Y'hshuwah Messiah, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

The promise of G-d for the faithful servant of G-d. It is truly noticeable to all around when a servant of G-d is living in HIS peace and walking in HIS power.

Monday, February 7, 2011

G-d's calendar: 4th day, 12th month, year 5771

Jeremiah 20:9
Then I said, I will not make mention of Him, nor speak any more in His name. But His word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay.

II Corinthians 5:14
For the love of Messiah constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:

If you've come to G-d in repentance, met His mercy, been touched by Messiah's love, you absolutely cannot be quiet about it. you just cannot keep contained, what G-d has done. Once you know His forgiveness and the price He paid for that gift to us, there is nothing worth maintaining silence. We are constrained; compelled by Messiah's love and the presence of G-d in our lives, is fire!

Sunday, February 6, 2011

G-d's calendar: 3rd day, 12th month, year 5771

Isaiah 42:1
Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.

John 3:34
For he whom G-d hath sent speaketh the words of G-d: for G-d giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.

These Scriptures, are of course, pointing to Y'hshuwah Messiah. He is the elect servant of YHWH. When Y'hshuwah cam to this earth, he told his followers simply to follow him, then proceeded to set a perfect example of what it is to walk as a believer of G-d's Word. He promised the Holy Spirit that we would have power to be witnesses unto him. He assured His followers and those that were to come after that we would walk in His authority and in His Name, display His power to do what He did, if we follow Him.

* this is a leap year on G-d's calendar so there will be a second 12th month . . .

Friday, February 4, 2011

G-d's calendar: 1st day, 12th month, year 5771

Psalm 118:24
This is the day which YHWH hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Philippians 4:4
Rejoice in YHWH alway: and again I say, Rejoice.

Seems a very appropriate devotion for today, a good reminder, in spite of the weather. I know that I know my day goes better, my relationship go smoother, my work is more enjoyable and accomplished, and the list goes on and on. I'm sure even my cooking tastes better when I rejoice in YHWH. I have a gift from G-d to be able to find a brighter or lighter side, even of a mess - if . . . and that is a determining factor, if; I rejoice in HIM. When I am surrounded by negativity, my rejoicing, if I am rejoicing, should be more contagious than the complaining. I don't always remember that and that is my shame, because it is always true!

Thursday, February 3, 2011

30th day, 11th month, year 5771 on G-d's calendar

Isaiah 26:3
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee.

I Corinthians 2:16
For who hath known the mind of YHWH, that He may instruct him? But we have the mind of Messiah.

Keeping our mind directed toward G-d. In this high stress world, it is so easy to focus on so many things, even obsess on things, especially things we don't like! Our society has gotten so self-focused, angry, and disrespectful of G-d that we actually have programs to obsess about our obsessions. We will not find G-d's peace or plan trying to make things work our way. and we will never find G-d's solution focusing on our problem. To have the mind of Messiah means we are surrendered to and desire the will of our Heavenly Father.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Isaiah 28:16
Therefore thus saith Adonai YHWH, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.

I Peter 2:6
Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.

The precious Cornerstone that Peter tells about is the one and only Messiah that Isaiah prophesied years before His first coming. He is the foundation in the flesh upon which G-d establishes a relationship with us; HIS Word. The Word of G-d is the cornerstone of the life of those in relationship with YHWH. Promised to G-d's people, the perfect blood atonement, Y'hshuwah's example is flawless, and His invitation unmistakable; "Come follow Me." It's no coincidence that G-d's Word was first given at Mt. Sinai, in stone and Y'hshuwah, the Word in the flesh is the precious cornerstone.