Friday, June 30, 2006

We Are His Sheep - Psalms 23


Would you want to be a sheep? I guess it depends upon who your Shepherd is...

When you stop and think about it, the analogy of sheep and shepherd is powerful. The Lord uses this analogy to describe people who came to believe in Him throughout the Bible. What does a shepherd's purpose? A shepherd provides for, protects and guides his sheep.

The truth is, sheep are not all that bright. They are defenseless and a little dense, so they need to be completely cared for. You can't just put a bunch of sheep out in the field and expect them to survive for very long. A favorite of many predatory carnivores, sheep must have protection. They tend to wander off without much thought of where they are or where they're going or how to get back.

Look at verse 2:
2 "He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams."
Sheep depend on the shepherd to lead them to where they can eat and drink. They need the shepherd to survive.

Look at the end of verse 4:
4 "Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me."
The shepherd rod was used to protect the sheep from bears or lions or even thieves. The rod was never used on the sheep, it was used on those who intended to harm his sheep. The staff was long and it had a hook on one end. This was used to guide the sheep in the way they should go. If one got out of line, the shepherd used the hook to pull them back in. If a sheep fell off a cliff, the shepherd could pull them back up with the staff.

So, when you think about how sheep need a shepherd to survive, think also about how we need the Lord to survive. We need Him to lead and guide us, lest we go astray on our own. We need Him to rescue us from our mistakes. We need Him to protect us from those who wish us harm.

I don't mind being God's sheep. We are His sheep and the people of His pasture. We have all we need. Our cups overflow with blessings and we will live in the house of the Lord forever.

It doesn't get much better than that...

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 8:39 AM | | Comments

Thursday, June 29, 2006

Prophetic Psalm? - Psalms 22

I find myself in the same recent dilemma this morning. I want to spend more time understanding this passage. I am intrigued by David's words and I want to know more - but I have to get to work. I slept to the last possible moment because I am so tired. My days are filled with activity from early morning until I can no longer hold my eyes open. But I will medidate on this Psalm today - there seems to be much more here than meets the eye...

As I read today's Psalm, several key phrases stuck out to me:
  • My God, my God! Why have you forsaken me?
  • I am scorned and despised by all!
  • "Is this the one who relies on the LORD? Then let the LORD save him! If the LORD loves him so much, let the LORD rescue him!"
  • They have pierced my hands and feet.
  • My enemies stare at me and gloat.
  • They divide my clothes among themselves and throw dice for my garments.
  • I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you.
  • The whole earth will acknowledge the LORD and return to him. People from every nation will bow down before him.

If I didn't know better, I'd think I was reading the words of Jesus, not David. I was amazed how many phrases used in this Psalm described Jesus and what He went through. Could this be some kind of prophetic Psalm? Could the Holy Spirit have been inspiring these words in David in order to prophesy Jesus agony and suffering and His triumph?

The encouragement for us today is to expect miracles. David probably had no idea these words were prophetic, but he was crying out to God and worshiping Him. As a result of his worship, the Holy Spirit gave David miraculous insight. As we worship Him and cry out to Him, He will hear us and He will answer us in miraculous ways - in ways we may not even know about at first. Trust Him - He is faithful.

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 7:25 AM | | Comments

Wednesday, June 28, 2006

Long Live the King! - Psalms 21

As I read these Psalms of David, I try to find out or imagine what might be going on at the time they were written. The story of David is still one of my favorite passages in the Bible. He went through so much but kept his eyes on the Lord. In spite of his problems, David had a great relationship with God - to the point God called him "a man after my own heart."

Today, I notice how David wrote this Psalm in the first person - as if perhaps to be sung as a song by his people. I try to imagine the people in that day who had the priviledge of having David as their king. There must have been certain protocols and traditions and I'm sure lots of singing, since David was a musician himself. I remember seeing in medeival movies (even the recent "Lord of the Rings") how the people would often shout, "Long live the king!" How interesting that David provides songs for them to sing to God about himself.

1 How the king rejoices in your strength, O LORD! He shouts with joy because of your victory. 2 For you have given him his heart's desire; you have held back nothing that he requested. 3 You welcomed him back with success and prosperity. You placed a crown of finest gold on his head. 4 He asked you to preserve his life, and you have granted his request. The days of his life stretch on forever. 5 Your victory brings him great honor, and you have clothed him with splendor and majesty. 6 You have endowed him with eternal blessings. You have given him the joy of being in your presence.

It got me thinking about my own "kingdom." As a father, I am the prophet, priest & king of my family. What better way to proclaim your faith and your love for God than in a song - how much more to provide your own people a song to sing to God about your own thanksgiving and praise.

I want my kids to know of my faith and my thanksgiving to God. We should make up more songs and sing them to God together...

What ways do you and your family praise God together?

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 10:11 AM | | Comments

Tuesday, June 27, 2006

Some Trust in Chariots - Psalms 20

This Psalm seems to have an interesting twist. In David's previous Psalms, it is clear that he is crying out to God for help or praising God directly for protecting him. We can easily imagine him penning these prayers and praises to God as we remember all that he went through from our reading of I & II Samuel.

But, this Psalm seems to be turned around. As I read it, I first thought that David is praying for his people. Look at the NLT version of the first 4 verses:

1 In times of trouble, may the LORD respond to your cry. May the God of Israel keep you safe from all harm. 2 May he send you help from his sanctuary and strengthen you from Jerusalem. 3 May he remember all your gifts and look favorably on your burnt offerings. 4 May he grant your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans.

Certainly a good model for us to review. It is good to pray for our brothers. At first, I thought this would be a great thing to mention to our men's group - an example to pray for each other. And it still is. But, upon further meditation, I started thinking that this prayer might be a prayer that David is presenting for his people to pray for him. Look at verses 5 & 6:

5 May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory, flying banners to honor our God. May the LORD answer all your prayers. 6 Now I know that the LORD saves his anointed king. He will answer him from his holy heaven and rescue him by his great power.

Why not? Paul and Peter were constantly asking people to pray for them. I could see how David might put out a prayer for the people to pray for their king. If you read this through as a person praying for David, it makes much more sense. If you read it as David praying for his people, verses 5 and 6 make less sense. I'm no Bible scholar so I'd be interested to hear your thoughts...

Of course, verse 7 is famous and a great declaration of trust in God (NKJV):

7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord our God.

Whom do you trust today?

Increase our trust in You today, Lord!

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 6:58 AM | | Comments

Monday, June 26, 2006

Declare His Glory! - Psalm 19

In the first part of this Psalm, David calls attention to the fact that all of God's creation is doing what it was created to do:
1 The heavens tell of the glory of God. The skies display his marvelous craftsmanship. 2 Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. 3 They speak without a sound or a word; their voice is silent in the skies; 4 yet their message has gone out to all the earth, and their words to all the world.
What was God's creation created to do? Declare the greatness of God! All is working perfectly as God has intended - the trees, the heavens, the atmosphere, the animals, fish, fowl, insects, geology, etc.

To man, however, He gave free will. Because He wanted someone to love and not just love Him back because He made them do so. As a result, we have some who are not declaring His greatness. Some are caught in destructive sins, some do not recognize Him as God, and some even make a point to tear down all things that have to do with God. One day, however, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord! As for me, I want to declare His greatness every moment I live - just as David did.

And, because of His desire for a relationship with us, God gave us laws. These laws were not meant to condem us, but to point out how much we need Him - because we simply cannot live up to them all. They show us where we fail to be holy. I like what David says about God's laws:
9 The laws of the LORD are true; each one is fair. 10 They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb. 11 They are a warning to those who hear them; there is great reward for those who obey them.
Then, I love David's prayer in verses 12 - 14:
12 How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? Cleanse me from these hidden faults. 13 Keep me from deliberate sins! Don't let them control me. Then I will be free of guilt and innocent of great sin. 14 May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.
Yes, Lord! May what I say and think today be pleasing to You!

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 7:05 AM | | Comments

Saturday, June 24, 2006

Guard me, Hide me, Protect me - Psalms 17

You can feel the emotion behind David's plea. David is crying out to God for justice. Most likely David is referencing Saul, how he hunts David down like an animal to kill him.

Instead of taking matters into his own hands, David cries out to God for help; for refuge. There are several things that stand out in David's prayer to me this morning:

1) "Pay attention to my prayer, for it comes from an honest heart." Are we honest when we talk to God? It's not like He already knows our heart anyway. I believe that is one of the keys to David's relationship with God - he was honest with Him. Not afraid to complain or cry out, David never seems to hold back or mince words when talking to God. I could learn from this. As I mentioned before, it shows the level of their inimate relationship. It's what God wants with each of us.

2) "...for I am determined not to sin in what I say." David considers his words carefully as He speaks to God. Clearly he is not without sin completely, none of us can be, but he makes careful consideration for what he is saying; again with the honesty.

3) "But because I have done what is right, I will see you." I believe because of their intimate relationship, David knows who he is in God. He knows where he stands with Him. If you read David's story in I and II Samuel, one thing that stand out clearly is that David prays to God about everything: "Should I go here, Lord?" "Should I eat this, Lord?" "Should I wear this?" Every little decision was taken to God (especially early in David's life) - as if He was standing right there with David.

4) "Guard me as the apple of your eye. Hide me in the shadow of your wings. Protect me from wicked people who attack me, from murderous enemies who surround me." Guard me. Hide me. Protect me. David recognizes God for who He is, our protector and defender. David is not afraid to cry out to God for refuge, even though he is considered a great warrior and leader. Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord.

5) "When I awake, I will be fully satisfied, for I will see you face to face." This says it all. David, even in the midst of such vile persecution, is fixed on God and not his own dismal circumstances. He declares that God is all he needs to be satisfied - even for just a glipse of God's glory.

Seek Him today! He is all you need.

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 6:46 AM | | Comments

Friday, June 23, 2006

Always With Me - Psalms 16


Psalms 16
From Mathew Henry's Complete Commentary on the Whole Bible:
This psalm is entitled Michtam, which some translate a golden psalm, a very precious one, more to be valued by us than gold, yea, than much fine gold, because it speaks so plainly of Christ and his resurrection, who is the true treasure hidden in the field of the Old Testament.

I love this chapter! I read this back to God as a prayer this morning and I experienced God in a whole new way. There is so much for me in these 11 short verses:
1 Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge.

8 I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. 9 No wonder my heart is filled with joy, and my mouth shouts his praises! My body rests in safety.
There is nothing more I can add!

Thank You, Lord, for Your Word.

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 7:31 AM | | Comments

Who May Worship? - Psalms 15

Psalms 15
David poses two questions in this short, but captivating Psalm:

1 Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?

David seems to be asking God who will go to heaven. Not who specifically, but what kind of person.

I'm reminded of another place in Scripture where this same question was asked. Do you remember the story of the rich, young ruler in Matthew 19?

16 Someone came to Jesus with this question: "Teacher, what good things must I do to have eternal life?" 17 "Why ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "Only God is good. But to answer your question, you can receive eternal life if you keep the commandments." 18 "Which ones?" the man asked. And Jesus replied: "'Do not murder. Do not commit adultery. Do not steal. Do not testify falsely. 19 Honor your father and mother. Love your neighbor as yourself.' " 20 "I've obeyed all these commandments," the young man replied. "What else must I do?" 21 Jesus told him, "If you want to be perfect, go and sell all you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." 22 But when the young man heard this, he went sadly away because he had many possessions. This wealthy young man had too much to give up.

Don't miss the point of Jesus' story - He is not saying that by obeying the commandments you will get into heaven. Some people spend their lives doing good, trying to earn heaven, but it can't be done. We will never live up to that. Jesus' point is summed up in his last three words to the young man: "Come, follow me." That's the kind of person who David is asking about: one who is willing to follow Jesus Christ. By doing so, it involves following His commandments and sacrificing all - your life, your possessions, your will. But - read on in Matthew 19 for the rewards:

27 Then Peter said to him, "We've given up everything to follow you. What will we get out of it?" 28 And Jesus replied, "I assure you that when I, the Son of Man, sit upon my glorious throne in the Kingdom, you who have been my followers will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will have eternal life. 30 But many who seem to be important now will be the least important then, and those who are considered least here will be the greatest then.

Yes! There are rewards and paybacks, Jesus makes that very clear - and Peter is not rebuked for asking "What will we get out of it?"

Lord, it's hard for me to get this right in my mind. I want to serve You, not for the rewards, but because I love You and want to bring glory to You. Yet, my mind is captured by Your words of encouragement. I'll follow You, Lord - and one day be with You.

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 7:06 AM | | Comments

Thursday, June 22, 2006

Intimacy with God - Psalms 13 & 14

Psalms 14
I am so blessed to have a few close friends that I can be myself to. They have known me long enough to know my heart. They know the background behind what I say and how I say things. I don't have to carefully select my words, I can just say what I'm thinking. I know that if I cross a line, they will lovingly let me know. But, because of my relationship with them, I am free to be myself.

In this chapter, I'm a bit uncomfortable when I read David's tone in this Psalm. He is really telling God how he feels. Once again, I'm reassured that it's okay because of David's intimate relationship with Him. The simple fact that I feel uncomfortable is a sign that I need to continue building intimacy with my heavenly father.

The other thing I notice is how David's complaining quickly turns to praise and rejoicing. In only six short verses David goes from crying out to God, complaining that He's forgotten him, to remembering all the good things God has done.

There is much to learn in these short verses in Psalms 13. The encouragement today is to continue to seek Him and to become more and more intimate with Him, and to always remember the good things He has already done. I will continue to nurture my relationships with my God-given friends as well as I need them to encourage me during the hard times and kick my hind-end when I stray.

Psalms 14
In this Psalm, there is more encouragement to grow in our relationship with Christ. David writes that God is looking about on the earth for one with understanding:

2 The LORD looks down from heaven on the entire human race; he looks to see if there is even one with real understanding, one who seeks for God.
How do we grow? How do we gain that understanding? Well, if you're reading this, you're doing it! God says that "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God." Reading the Scriptures is the best way to feed our spirits. His word grows us and washes us and teaches us as we read it. It's living water to our spirits.

Lord, thank You again for Your Word. Please speak to me today and show me how to grow in faith and understanding.

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 7:14 AM | | Comments

Wednesday, June 21, 2006

No Weapon Shall Prevail - Psalms 11 & 12

Psalms 11
Do you remember reading about David? Remember when Saul was out to kill David? What if someone of great power & resources hurled a javelyn at you, trying to kill you - would you run? That's the advice they gave to David. I'm not sure if he wrote this Psalm during that time, but that's the story I'm reminded of. This is a great testimony of David's struggle with his temptation to run and hide instead of trusting God to defend him.

4 But the LORD is in his holy Temple; the LORD still rules from heaven. He watches everything closely, examining everyone on earth. 5 The LORD examines both the righteous and the wicked. He hates everyone who loves violence. 6 He rains down blazing coals on the wicked, punishing them with burning sulfur and scorching winds. 7 For the LORD is righteous, and he loves justice. Those who do what is right will see his face.

God loves justice. We may not see it now, but God knows how we have been wronged. Our responsibility is not to cut and run, nor is it to get even. Our job is simply to trust Him in all circumstances.

I'm reminded of the promise in Isaiah 54:17:

"No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; And every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their vindication is from Me," declares the LORD."

Kind of takes the pressure off, no?

Psalms 12 also talks of the Lord's protection:

6 The LORD's promises are pure, like silver refined in a furnace, purified seven times over. 7 Therefore, LORD, we know you will protect the oppressed, preserving them forever from this lying generation, 8 even though the wicked strut about, and evil is praised throughout the land.

Live in peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 7:19 AM | | Comments

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

Thank You God! - Psalms 9 & 10

Psalms 9
1 I will thank you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. 2 I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name, O Most High.
My heart leaped when I read this. I have so much to be thankful for, but I have not exactly been walking around in an attitude of gratitude lately. So, let me declare today my thanks and praise to God. Like David in this Psalm, my heart today is filled with gladness. He has held me up in the presence of my enemy and His righteous right hand has protected me through the fire.

Psalms 10
 Have you ever felt this way:
1 O LORD, why do you stand so far away? Why do you hide when I need you the most?
The encouragement for me today is that David, the only man that God called "the man after God's own heart", questions where God is during the difficult times. Not that I question if God really cares, or if He has gone off on vacation, leaving me to fend for myself. Never! But, there are times I need to just cry out to Him like this.

As I understand Him more, and as His word gives me wisdom, the less fearful I am to tell Him exactly what I'm thinking - and somehow, the less I find it necessary to do so.

Be encouraged! God wants intimacy with you! He wants to know your heart and He wants you to know His. It's okay to cry out to God - even shout. He can handle it. You'll find that expressing yourself to Him starts the healing process right away. When we keep it inside and try to handle it by ourselves, it only makes things worse.

Thank You, God! I'm so grateful for how You are there to rescue us when we're feeling completely overwhelmed. Thank You that you care about us and want to hear from us - when we're walking with You and when we've completely blown it. I don't understand it, but I'm so thankful for it.

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 9:38 AM | | Comments

Monday, June 19, 2006

God is Worthy! - Psalms 7 & 8

Psalms 7
When faced with his persecutors David sang songs to God. This Psalm seems to implicate Saul and David is singing out for God to rescue him. He asks God to reveal any injustice he may have done to be persecuted like this. He knows he is innocent and passionately cries out for His help:

6 Arise, O LORD, in anger! Stand up against the fury of my enemies! Wake up, my God, and bring justice! 7 Gather the nations before you. Sit on your throne high above them. 8 The LORD passes judgment on the nations. Declare me righteous, O LORD, for I am innocent, O Most High! 9 End the wickedness of the ungodly, but help all those who obey you. For you look deep within the mind and heart, O righteous God.

David ends the song with praise, acknowledgement and thanksgiving.

I am reminded of a song from MercyMe called "Keep Singing" that reminds me that no matter how bad it seems, God is worthy to be praised:

Another rainy day
I can't recall having sunshine on my face
All I feel is pain
All I wanna do is walk out of this place
But when I am stuck and I can't move
When I don't know what I should do
When I wonder if I'll ever make it through

I gotta keep singing
I gotta keep praising Your name
Your the one that's keeping my heart beating
I gotta keep singing
I gotta keep praising Your name
That's the only way that I'll find healing

Can I climb up in Your lap
I don't wanna leave
Jesus sing over me
I gotta keep singing

Can I climb up in Your lap
I don't wanna leave
Jesus sing over me
I gotta keep singing

Oh You're everything I need
And I gotta keep singing

That's where the real power of praise is. If we can praise God through our trials, we will discover a new, deeper level of intimacy with God. When we demonstrate our faith in Him by trusting Him and praising Him and thanking Him through the difficulties, we release new levels of blessing in our lives.

Psalms 8
This Psalm is a song of admiration of the glory and greatness of God Almighty. Have you ever stopped to think how amazing our world is? I remember feeling so small once on a flight to Los Angeles. I looked out the window in one direction and saw the earth below with faint lines that were busy highways and multi-colored patches of earth that were agricultural commerce and bustling businesses. I looked in another direction and I saw huge towers of pillowy clouds that dwarfed the huge jet I was in. I felt so small.

Suddenly, I became aware of the greatness of God. I got choked up and my eyes filled with water. I started to praise God silently there in 27A because the greatness of Him was overwhelming my senses.

He is so awesome and has created this world to work in perfect order. The science of everything is only beginning to be discovered. The earth and sky shouts the greatness of God. Wonders fill the heavens yet His glory is so much higher than that.

And, to think that He has placed us in charge of all this? I'm overcome...

3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers – the moon and the stars you have set in place – 4 what are mortals that you should think of us, mere humans that you should care for us? 5 For you made us only a little lower than God, and you crowned us with glory and honor. 6 You put us in charge of everything you made, giving us authority over all things – 7 the sheep and the cattle and all the wild animals, 8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea, and everything that swims the ocean currents. 9 O LORD, our Lord, the majesty of your name fills the earth!

Praise Your Name, O God!

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 6:54 AM | | Comments

Sunday, June 18, 2006

Happy Father's Day - Psalms 5,6

First off, let me send out a big HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to all my brothers who have been blessed to have children. I'm proud to know you!

Psalms 5
The encouragement for me today is David's cry to God. Look how David just lets his cry be known to God:

1 O LORD, hear me as I pray; pay attention to my groaning. 2 Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for I will never pray to anyone but you. 3 Listen to my voice in the morning, LORD. Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.

I, too, want to spend time in the morning talking with God - telling Him exactly how I feel, no matter how whiny or difficult.

Psalms 6
I really resonated to this Psalm:

1 For the choir director: A psalm of David, to be accompanied by an eight-stringed instrument. O LORD, do not rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your rage. 2 Have compassion on me, LORD, for I am weak. Heal me, LORD, for my body is in agony. 3 I am sick at heart. How long, O LORD, until you restore me? 4 Return, O LORD, and rescue me. Save me because of your unfailing love. 5 For in death, who remembers you? Who can praise you from the grave? 6 I am worn out from sobbing. Every night tears drench my bed; my pillow is wet from weeping. 7 My vision is blurred by grief; my eyes are worn out because of all my enemies.

8 Go away, all you who do evil, for the LORD has heard my crying. 9 The LORD has heard my plea; the LORD will answer my prayer. 10 May all my enemies be disgraced and terrified. May they suddenly turn back in shame.

In particular, verses 3-4 stuck out: "3 I am sick at heart. How long, O LORD, until you restore me? 4 Return, O LORD, and rescue me. Save me because of your unfailing love." He saves us, but not because of our worth over others, not because of our talents or good looks, not because of anything we could ever do or say, but because of His unfailing love. Meditate on His unfailing love today.

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 7:28 AM | | Comments

Saturday, June 17, 2006

Peace & Joy - Psalms 3 & 4

I apprecaite the psalms of David. Somehow they speak to me and give me deep reassurance and comfort.

Psalms 3 is a beautiful prayer from David, written when he was fleeing from his own son, Absalom:

1 O Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! 2 Many are saying of me, "God will not deliver him." Selah 3 But you are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head.

4 To the Lord I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill. Selah 5 I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. 6 I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side. 7 Arise, O Lord! Deliver me, O my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked. 8 From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people. Selah

Somehow I appreciate the passion and honesty of this Psalm. I appreciate the reassurance of the Lord's protection.

Psalms 4 reminds me about letting anger get out of control:

4 Don't sin by letting anger gain control over you. Think about it overnight and remain silent. Interlude 5 Offer proper sacrifices, and trust in the LORD.

Psalms 4 also reminds me that joy is something beyond my circumstances:

7 You have given me greater joy than those who have abundant harvests of grain and wine. 8 I will lie down in peace and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe.

It may not look like what I think joy should look like, but trusting God allows me to lie down in peace and sleep well - because He has my back.

peace,
e


Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 7:27 AM | | Comments

Friday, June 16, 2006

Planted by the Water - Psalms 1 & 2


The book of Psalms is a treasure-trove of wisdom for living live to its fullest. The riches of true knowledge and wisdom from heaven are given to us to have abundant life.

Psalms 1 says to avoid sinners and refuse the counsel of ungodly men. Instead, we are to get our wisdom from the Lord and the Law of God. This is what will bring forth fruit in our lives. It's amazing how many people I meet who tell of a lack of fruit in their lives, but when asked if they read God's Word every day, they want to change the subject.
2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. 3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.
Psalms 2 is a warning to rulers of the world to serve the Lord rather than plot against Him. This way He will make your lands prosperous and help you to rule. Otherwise, you will bring on His wrath.

May the Lord be your refuge today! Soak up His wisdom like that tree planted by the Water.

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 6:34 AM | | Comments

Thursday, June 15, 2006

The Legacy (or The Stone With Ears) - Joshua 24

I often hear about men asking questions like "Why am I here?", "What is my purpose?" or "What is God's will for my life?" There's something inside all of us that wants to know what it is we're supposed to be doing to be truly successful.

I admire the great care and pains Joshua took in his final attempt (he's getting quite old) to get his people to remain faithful to God and stop worshipping idols. He gathered the all the leaders and recounted all the things God had done for them. He charged them with a pledge to be faithful to God. He got them to confess their loyalty to Him. And, he made a monument for them to remember their promise.

19 Then Joshua said to the people, "You are not able to serve the LORD, for he is a holy and jealous God. He will not forgive your rebellion and sins. 20 If you forsake the LORD and serve other gods, he will turn against you and destroy you, even though he has been so good to you." 21 But the people answered Joshua, saying, "No, we are determined to serve the LORD!" 22 "You are accountable for this decision," Joshua said. "You have chosen to serve the LORD.""Yes," they replied, "we are accountable." 23 "All right then," Joshua said, "destroy the idols among you, and turn your hearts to the LORD, the God of Israel."

What is our legacy? Are we here simply to work, climb the corporate ladder, accumulate "stuff", and then die with as many "friends" as we can at our funeral?

No, we too are charged with serving God with all our hearts, our minds and our strength. Careers, possessions and even relationships can become our idols and Joshua's dying wish is for us today as well.

The encouragement for me in this last chapter of Joshua is to live a life that will also be an encouragement to my children and those under my leadership. There are several important life lessons for me here concerning my purpose in life:

  1. I want to tell people what God has done. One thing I've noticed about these chapters in the OT is that they're much like the age-old sales missive:"Tell them what you're going to tell them, then tell them, then tell them what you told them." Do I spend time with my children telling them what God has done for us? How about my friends?
  2. I want to encourage people to commit to faithfulness to God. It's more than just telling about what God has done. For me, it's about hearing God and acting on what He tells me to do to encourage others to grow in their relationship with Him. What am I doing to encourage my kids and my friends to get into the Word, to fellowship with other Christians, to spend time with God?
  3. I want to establish a monument that people can always have to remember what God has done. I'm still working on this one, but I love the way Joshua put the huge stone under the oak tree:

26 Joshua recorded these things in the Book of the Law of God. As a reminder of their agreement, he took a huge stone and rolled it beneath the oak tree beside the Tabernacle of the LORD. 27 Joshua said to all the people, "This stone has heard everything the LORD said to us. It will be a witness to testify against you if you go back on your word to God."

What am I doing to establish habits or memorials in my children's lives and those of my friends that will last far beyond when I'm outta here?

The book of Joshua has been powerful and I've never read it through before. I thank those of you who joined me and encouraged me to read every day.

The adventure continues...
Tomorrow we start reading in Psalms and I'm really looking forward to that as well. I've heard several comments from people we haven't heard from in a while who are planning to join us in Psalms! Great! This would be a great time to refresh your commitment to God to reading His Word every day. Jump back in! It will be a great adventure...

Lord, thank You again for Your Word, and for the life it brings just by reading it. Thank You that I do not need to be a Bible scholar to understand the truths you have hidden in these pages. Thank You for the treasures I find every single time I make time to read. Please send encouragement to my children and my brothers to get to know You more by reading Your Words - give them life and refreshment as they are obedient. Establish memorials in their lives and in their families that will last for generations - reminding everyone of what You have done for us. You are so awesome and so worthy to be praised. Bless Your Name!

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 6:59 AM | | Comments

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

What's Next?

We're coming to the end of Joshua and many of you have been asking where we're going next.

So, after much prayer and counsel, I am excited to announce the dBrag map for the next two months:

June 16 - June 30, 2006: Psalms (up to chapter 26, see specific schedule below)
July 1 - July 31, 2006: Proverbs

Why Study Psalms?
  • Because of its prominance of the Bible - it's the longest "book" of the Bible, the most often quoted OT book in the NT.
  • Because of its distinguished authorship - (through the divine inspiration of the Holy Spirit) David, Moses, sons of Asaph, Solomon, the sons of Korah, Ezra
  • Because of their influence and dominance in the worship of the church, and it's history
  • Because of their power to enrich our spiritual lives, with divine inspiration
I've had many requests over the years to do Psalms together, but it was challenging to fit into the dBrag model because some chapters have only a few short verses, but others have over 100 verses. I know it's not about the number of verses we read, but remember - the dBrag model is specifically designed for those who lack discipline of their own, and for those who have found it difficult to have a consistent time in God's Word every day. Consider it a kind of "baby steps" method to Spiritual maturity in reading the Bible. Therefore, having to read/study more than 20 to 30 verses may very well take some of us out.

If you're bothered by that, perhaps you need a different model. As always, I want to encourage you to go beyond dBrag in your personal studies of the Scriptures. Many dBraggers also read a proverb a day along with their dBrag chapter. Many read a good Christian book by a reputable author along with their dBrag studies. I encourage you to do whatever God is leading you to do to increase your wisdom and knowledge of Him and grow closer to Him.

Not to try to make things complicated, but I've come up with the following schedule to help keep with the model of 20 - 30 verses per day:

6/16/2006 Psalms 1-2
‏6/17/2006 Psalms 3-4‏
6/18/2006 Psalms 5-6
‏6/19/2006 Psalms 7-8‏
6/20/2006 Psalms 9-10
‏6/21/2006 Psalms 11-12‏
6/22/2006 Psalms 13-14
‏6/23/2006 Psalms 15-16‏
6/24/2006 Psalms 17
‏6/25/2006 Psalms 18‏
6/26/2006 Psalms 19-20
‏6/27/2006 Psalms 21‏
6/28/2006 Psalms 22
‏6/29/2006 Psalms 23-24‏
6/30/2006 Psalms 25-26‏

What about the rest of the Psalms? We will continue with Psalms later, perhaps on the other side of July (God willing).

For the month of July, we'll be reading a Proverb chapter per day. Whatever day it is, just read that Proverb. For example, on July 1st read Proverbs 1. On July 2 read Proverbs 2, etc.

Final Thoughts
Many of you suggested that one of the ways you like to spend time with God is with Worship. Since we're studying the first 26 chapters of Psalms, I'd like for you to consider ways to incorporate worship into your dBrag routine - let us know what you come up with!

Thanks for your faithfulness!

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 11:00 AM | | Comments

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Separation Anxiety - Joshua 22

Joshua gathered all the warriors together and commended them for a job well done. The war had officially ended and Israel now occupied the Promised Land. So, Joshua disbanded the armies and they began to head back to their families, most likely for the first time in about seven years.

What a celebration! But wait...

On their way home, the two and one half tribes that had been given the land east of the Jordan river decided they needed to build an altar on the border of their land. Word of this act spread quickly and the whole assembly gathered to prepare to go to war with these tribes "from the east side." Not much time had passed (a day?) and already they were ready to kill each other.

There is some wisdom here because instead of sending an army, they sent a delegation to investigate:

13 First, however, they sent a delegation led by Phinehas son of Eleazar, the priest. They crossed the river to talk with the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. 14 In this delegation were ten high officials of Israel, one from each of the ten tribes, and each a leader within the family divisions of Israel.

In the end, the "east side boys" were able to explain their intentions and how they were only building a memorial, not an altar for sacrifice. The delegation was satisfied with this explanation and everyone went home in peace.

Phew! Can you say touchy situation?

It seems like there was already some dissention between those who were given land east of the Jordan and all the others. It made me think about the body of Christ and how we sometimes are respecters of persons. Those with the up-front gifts (i.e. preachers, teachers, musicians, etc.) and those with the behind-the-scenes gifts (i.e. administrators, maintenance, prayer warriors) often have the same kind of struggles. But, we are all parts of the same body. God has given everyone different gifts for a reason - no one part (job) is more important. Look what Jesus says:

12 The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ. 13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body--whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free--and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 14 Now the body is not made up of one part but of many. 15 If the foot should say, "Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body," it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, "Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body," it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? 18 But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 19 If they were all one part, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body. 21 The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!" And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.

What are your gifts? How are you serving the body?

Lord, I appreciate your teaching about harmony in Joshua 22. Help us to not be quick to judge and send an army to do the job of a delegation. Let there be peace in our body. Help us to understand our gifts and how to use them for Your glory - because You are SO worthy!

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 7:29 AM | | Comments

Monday, June 12, 2006

Ths Promise Fulfilled - Joshua 21

This chapter presents the fulfillment of God's promise to the children of Israel. The land of Caanan now belongs to Israel. While all the Caananites were not driven out yet, those that did remain lived in less cultivated areas and were too weak and intimidated to rise up and fight Israel, but rather they were under heavy tribute. This is not an inconsistency in the Scripture where God promised to drive out all the Caananites, but these people remain only as a result of Israel's cowardess and slothfulness. Plus, in Exodus 23:30 we read God's promise was literally to drive them out "little by little." Eventually, in David's era they are all driven out. So, God's promise was fulfilled completely, though it seemed to have been delayed by God.
45 All of the good promises that the LORD had given Israel came true.
And so it is with us. God is faithful to His word. He will fulfill His promises in your life, including the promise of our spiritual Caanan, heaven, though it may seem delayed.

Something else I find interesting in this chapter is the situation with the Levites. Since they were wholly consecrated to serving God, they had no territory - God was their inheritance. Yet all the other tribes tithed produce to them. In this chapter, 48 cities were also assigned to them. Thirteen were for them to "dwell" in, but they were scattered among the tribes (nine in Judah, three in Naphtali, and four in each of the other tribes' lands) to keep knowledge and service to God alive. Also, six of these cities were set apart as "cities of refuge" (places that offered asylum for those who unintentionally slain another).

Lord, I am amazed by Your Word, and the way You fulfilled Your promises to the children of Israel. Reading in this chapter about the Levites has prompted me to pray for my pastor. Lord, meet his needs and those of his family. Pour out Your blessings as You did for the priests we read about in today's chapter.

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 7:22 AM | | Comments

Friday, June 09, 2006

Take the Land - Joshua 18

As all the land is nearly divied up, there are still some tribes that have yet to take possession of their property.
2 But there remained seven tribes who had not yet been allotted their inheritance. 3 Then Joshua asked them, "How long are you going to wait before taking possession of the remaining land the LORD, the God of your ancestors, has given to you?
Finally, after about a year (from what I can tell in my studies), Joshua grows tired of their inaction and tells them what to do. His reproof in verse 3 makes it clear that they had become complacent. Joshua was determined to see what God commanded him to do be carried out, so he gives these instructions:
4 Select three men from each tribe, and I will send them out to survey the unconquered territory. They will return to me with a written report of their proposed divisions of the inheritance. 5 The scouts will map the land into seven sections, excluding Judah's territory in the south and Joseph's territory in the north. 6 Then I will cast sacred lots in the presence of the LORD our God to decide which section will be assigned to each tribe.
Apparently, these last few tribes had become comfortable with things the way they were. Perhaps they preferred the life of a nomad, perhaps they were reluctant to go back to war, but for whatever reason they had not yet claimed their inheritance.

The encouragement from this chapter is to take action - to Take The Land! As heirs of Jesus Christ we've been given so much inheritance. However, we must hear God and act according to what He has told us to do. Today, God is telling you (me) to get off your lazy butt and get back into the game. Consider what's really important. It's too easy to get distracted with all the busyness of the day.

Has God given you dreams? Is there something you know He would have you to do for ministry or for a career, but you've stalled out? It may take a commitment to reading His Word every day. It may take fervent prayer. It may take fasting. But He wants us to complete our part of the deal before He can pour out His blessings. It's not easy, but look at the reward!

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 7:14 AM | | Comments

Thursday, June 08, 2006

Just Ask! - Joshua 17

Before I had children, my view of God was quite different. Somehow having kids gave me a whole new perspective on my relationship with father God. As a father of all girls, I was particularly interested in the story of the daughters of Zelophehad. Today's chapter got me thinking about how God provides for His children - specifically, how He responds when we ask Him for something. Look at verses 3 - 6:

3 However, Zelophehad son of Hepher, who was a descendant of Manasseh, Makir, and Gilead, had no sons. Instead, he had five daughters. Their names were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. 4 These women came to Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the Israelite leaders and said, "The LORD commanded Moses to give us an inheritance along with the men of our tribe."So Joshua gave them an inheritance along with their uncles, as the LORD had commanded. 5 As a result, Manasseh's inheritance came to ten parcels of land, in addition to the land of Gilead and Bashan across the Jordan River, 6 because the female descendants of Manasseh received an inheritance along with the male descendants. (The land of Gilead was given to the rest of the male descendants of Manasseh.)

There is another description of this situation in Numbers 27 that gives a little clearer understanding to my point:

1 One day a petition was presented by the daughters of Zelophehad – Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. Their father, Zelophehad, was the son of Hepher, son of Gilead, son of Makir, son of Manasseh, son of Joseph. 2 These women went and stood before Moses, Eleazar the priest, the tribal leaders, and the entire community at the entrance of the Tabernacle. 3 "Our father died in the wilderness without leaving any sons," they said. "But he was not among Korah's followers, who rebelled against the LORD. He died because of his own sin. 4 Why should the name of our father disappear just because he had no sons? Give us property along with the rest of our relatives." 5 So Moses brought their case before the LORD. 6 And the LORD replied to Moses, 7 "The daughters of Zelophehad are right. You must give them an inheritance of land along with their father's relatives. Assign them the property that would have been given to their father.

Do you see how the lives of these daughters, and their family name, would have turned out quite differently if they had not had the courage and conviction to approach Moses and the leaders regarding this request? It kind of reminds me of some New Testament promises:

James 4:2b: "And yet the reason you don't have what you want is that you don't ask God for it."

Matthew 7:7: "Keep on asking, and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened."

This digging led me to another relevant example in the book of Luke where Jesus encourages us to be bold in asking God for things:

1 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples." 2 He said to them, "When you pray, say: "'Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. 3 Give us each day our daily bread. 4 Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.'" 5 Then he said to them, "Suppose one of you has a friend, and he goes to him at midnight and says, 'Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, 6 because a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I have nothing to set before him.' 7 "Then the one inside answers, 'Don't bother me. The door is already locked, and my children are with me in bed. I can't get up and give you anything.' 8 I tell you, though he will not get up and give him the bread because he is his friend, yet because of the man's boldness he will get up and give him as much as he needs. 9 "So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. 11 "Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"

What's holding you back from asking God? Fear? Guilt? Insecurity? Self-worth? I know these things sometimes go through my mind before I ask God for things. I'm thankful for these truths today so I can approach Him for a few needs in my life today.

Thank You, Lord for Your perfect timing in reading today's encouragement!

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 9:15 AM | | Comments

Wednesday, June 07, 2006

Lack of Follow Through - Joshua 16

This is a short chapter that, at first, didnt' seem to contain anything useful for today. But something in verse 10 caught my attention:
10 They did not drive the Canaanites out of Gezer, however, so the people of Gezer live as slaves among the people of Ephraim to this day.
It was God's command to "utterly" drive out the Canaanites and to make no peace with them. However, here we have the Ephraimites failing to drive out the Canaanites from Gezer either because they were afraid or because they were lazy - either of which leaves a "brand" on these people for future generations.

The fact that they sought to satisfy God's command by bringing them under tribute only makes matters worse because now, not only are they disobeying God's command, they're profiting from it!

As we will see, this is a shadow of things to come as the children of Israel succomb to the temptation of idolatry - but that's another day. For today, the encouragement is to listen for God's command, and then not try to modify it to fit our needs.

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 10:40 AM | | Comments

Tuesday, June 06, 2006

Kissin' Cousins - Joshua 15

In this chapter, the Lord tells Joshua to assign some of Judah's territory to Caleb. I found the account of Caleb and his plan for provision for his daughter quite interesting in this chapter:

16 Caleb said, "I will give my daughter Acsah in marriage to the one who attacks and captures Kiriath-sepher." 17 Othniel, the son of Caleb's brother Kenaz, was the one who conquered it, so Acsah became Othniel's wife.
I think it's quite clever of Caleb to have done this to provide for his daughter. First, he is assuring that the husband of his daughter, the winning warrior, would have to be clever in battle to drive out those in Kiriath-sepher. Second, he is assuring that his daughter will remain nearby in the land that borders his own.

I find it interesting how Caleb's daughter makes an additional request for the springs:
18 When Acsah married Othniel, she urged him to ask her father for an additional field. As she got down off her donkey, Caleb asked her, "What is it? What can I do for you?" 19 She said, "Give me a further blessing. You have been kind enough to give me land in the Negev; please give me springs as well." So Caleb gave her the upper and lower springs.
This new territory was a barren land, so Acsah asked her new warrior-husband to ask for water or access to the springs nearby. There's not much to go on here, but I was impressed by Acsah's foresight and wisdom to ask for access to the springs. Apparently Othniel thought it wise to have her ask her dad herself. She did and Caleb gave them the upper springs and the ether springs as well, setting up for them a wonderful inheritance.

Because she was wise to ask, she and her new husband were blessed. I'm reminded of the scripture we read a few months ago in Luke 11:11-13:
11 "You fathers – if your children ask for a fish, do you give them a snake instead? 12 Or if they ask for an egg, do you give them a scorpion? Of course not! 13 If you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him."
I'm impressed with Caleb's thinking and provision. We always hear about how men and sons are blessed. I appreciate this chapter because I'm always looking for ways to bless my daughters.

Lord, thank you for this encouragement today. I continue to pray for my daughters who have been such a blessing to me. Help me to be the father they need and be able to bless them when the appropriate time comes. Provide the wisdom and the resources to be able to take Caleb's example and bless my girls. I continue to pray for the men who will be their husbands some day. Protect, guide and mold them into everything You intend for them, then give them and my daughters the wisdom and patience to find each other.

peace,
e

Posted by Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy) at 6:46 AM | | Comments

About me

  • I'm Jaqua (Jāy 'Quāy)
  • From Tampa, Florida, United States
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Reading Schedule

9/22/2006 - Esther 10
9/23/2006 - Psalms 24
9/24/2006 - Psalms 25
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9/30/2006 - Psalms 31
10/1/2006 - COMING SOON!
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