Scripture Reading for Thursday 31 March 2011

"Greetings Everyone in the Name of of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: "The Coming Messianic King"
Today's Scripture Reading: Psalm 2:1-12
Today's Key Verse: Genesis 2:11 "Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling."

Psalm 2 is a royal Psalm and focuses on  the coming and glorious reign of the Lord's Messiah.  In the Hebrew text the author is unknown but in the New Testament (Acts 4:24-26) the apostles assign it it to David.

Psalm 2 is a prophetically on the coming reign and rule of Jesus.  This Psalm has four movements each related to a different voice or speaker:

(1) A description of the plans of the wicked (verses 1-3)
(2) The Father's derisive laughter from Heaven (verses 4-6)
(3) The Son's declaration of the Fathers decree (verses7-9)
(4) The Spirit's instruction to all kings to obey the Son (verses 10-12)

In our Key Verse today the words, "rejoice with trembling" would mean that with proper fear, adoration, reverence, and awe of the Most Holy God could there be real joy in the coming Kingdom.  

The human society that lives here on this earth is rebellious against God's anointed Messiah, and is provoking God's scorn and judgment.  God has declared that His Son will rule the earth.  How essential is it to believe and trust in Jesus now, and find His Love, Grace, and Blessings rather than face destruction and spending all eternity away from God, for rejecting Him as God's Son and your Savior.

Today's Hymn: "Rejoice the Lord is King"

Rejoice, the Lord is King! Your Lord and King adore;
Mortals give thanks and sing, and triumph evermore;
Lift up your voice, lift up your voice; Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

Jesus, the Savior, reigns, the God of truth and love;
When He had purged our stains He took His seat above
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice;
Rejoice, again I say rejoice

Heavenly Father, May we as believers from the time we wake up to start our day, and until we finish our day, lift up our hearts and our voices in total adoration for you.  May we rejoice in trembling with fear, adoration, reverence and awe at You the Most Holy God.  Help us Lord in all aspects of our life's to keep focused on You.
                                                                                                  Amen

Today's Biblical Truth: "The future Rule of Jesus Christ will be absolute.  Are YOU ready?"

Click on the link www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com  for Today's Daily Bible Verse from Isaiah 41:10.

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you have a spiritual defeat in your life and you yell out, "I CAN'T",  God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ,
Cindi
  
  

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Wednesday 30 March 2011

"Greetings in the Name of the Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: "The Way of the Righteous"
Today's Scripture Reading: Psalm 1:1-6
Today's Key Verse: Psalm 1:3 "He shall be like a tree, planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper."

To begin, I would like to say how excited I am to be doing the Book of Psalm.  This Book shows us that our Almighty God, is aware and sensitive to our every emotion, our struggles and He is all powerful to reach down to help us through it all.  We as Christians and Believers are, to give God our trust, our devotion, our obedience, our confidence, and our praise.  By doing so we will live out our days enriched by His presence.

This Chapter is a wisdom Psalm and presents a sharp contrast between the way of the righteous, and the way of the wicked.  There is no author named for this Psalm nor or we given the circumstances for the writing of this Psalm.  

The focus on the Psalm is on the form of character and the difference between the righteous and the wicked.  It will also set the theme for the entire Book of Psalms.

This Psalm is like a beacon of light coming through the darkness of a stormy night.  It lights up and points out the truth, even when the untruths of our society begin to cloud our thoughts.  It affirms that there is only way to true life, and to deny this is to foolishly accept the death sentence of God because of our sins.

We as Christians are to reject the lifestyle of the wicked, and to find delight in the word of God.  Godly choices lead to stability and prosperity but wickedness leads to destruction.  God who is, and always will be, is in control, and supervises the outcome of the moral choices that we make.

Today's Hymn: "Room at the Cross for You"

The cross upon which Jesus died,
 Is a shelter in which we can hide;
And its grace so free is sufficient for me
And deep is its fountain as wide as the sea.
There's room at the cross for you
There's room at the cross for you
Though millions have come, there's still room for one
Yes, there's room at the cross for you

Heavenly Father, We as Christians live in this world, but because of what Jesus, Your Son did for us on the Cross of Calvary, we are not part of this world.  May we continue, while we are here in  our temporary home, find our deep enjoyment in serving you, studying Your Word, and Praising Your Name in everything that we do.
                                                                                                                             Amen

Truth for the Day: "God is always involved with the way of the righteous, but has no connection with the ways of the ungodly, except through Divine Judgment"

Click the link for Today's Daily Bible Verse at www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com which is Ruth:16,17.

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you have a spiritual defeat in your life and you yell out, "I CAN'T",  God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ,
Cindi


                    

     

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Tuesday 29 March 2011

"Greetings Everyone in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: : "Introduction Into the Book of Psalm"

Today is the introduction to the Book of Psalm.  We will begin to read about one of the greatest collections of songs, prayers, and poetry.  The Book of Psalm also expresses the deepest passions of humanity.  In this Book we hear the desperate cry in the midst of despair, but will also see the overpowering joy, great delight and rapture in the praise to the Almighty Living God.   We will read the pouring out of his soul in confession, but also the bubbling over with joy.  The Book of Psalm leads us through the valleys and peaks of human experience, but in the end it will guide us to the Praise of Almighty God.

The Book of Psalm towers above other ancient and modern works of poetry, capturing not only the genius of men but the inventiveness of God who inspired them.  The Book of Psalm touches us at the deepest levels of our personalities and probes every human experience and it lifts our eyes up to see God.  We are drawn to worship the one who who is rightly the center of our existence and whose praise is our greatest good.

The Book of Psalm was written by various authors.  But the dominant influence of David shaped the worship life of ancient Israel.  Psalms reminds us, that love for God and celebration of His grace as well as an abiding sense of personal relationship with Him are important in the Believers faith.

The name for God that occurs most often in this Book is YAHWEH.  That name gives special force to the Living presence of God.  It is YAHWEH, the ever-present, ever-faithful, ever caring God that we will meet in Psalm and through Psalm we will see that God is YAHWEH for us.

He is present with us.  He is here and aware of our every emotion, sensitive to our struggles and is powerful to extend His hand to aid us.  It is through the Psalms that we realize we are to be there for Him as well.  We are to give Him our trust, devotion, obedience, confidence, and praise.  Hand in hand with God, we are to live out all our days enriched by his presence and offering Him praise.

Today's Hymn: "Praise My Soul The King Of Heaven"

Praise, my soul the King of heaven, To the throne they tribute bring
Ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven  Evermore God's praises sing
Alleluia! Alleluia! Praise the everlasting King
Praise the Lord for grace and favor, To all people in distress
Praise God still the same as ever, Slow to chide, and swift to bless
Alleluia! Alleluia! Glorious now God's faithfulness

Heavenly Father, How thankful that we are to You YAHWEH, the ALMIGHTY GOD.  How we are drawn to worship the One who is the center of our existence and who praise is our greatest joy.  May we every day in our lives, be drawn to you, as we worship and praise the name which is above every name and Glorify You.
                                                                                                     Amen

"Always appreciate the great gift God has given you, and open up your hearts and life to Him"

Today's Daily Bible Verse at www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com is from Isaiah 59:2.

Have a God Filled and a Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you a a spiritual defeat n your life that yells out, "I CAN'T",  God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".

Yours In Christ,
Cindi       

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Monday 28 March 2011

"Greetings Everyone in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: "The death of Jacob and Joseph"
Today's Scripture Reading: Genesis 50:1-26
Today's Key Verse: Genesis 50:19-20 " Joseph said to them, "Do not be afraid, for I am in the place of God".  But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive."

Before I being to day's writing I want to say that this is the last Chapter of Genesis and will complete this Book of the Bible.  I hope that you have enjoyed this guide through Genesis were we read about the Creation of the world, the creation of man, man's sinful fall, the first murder, the great flood, the tower of Babel and where the different languages first started and the call of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the covenant the Almighty God made with them and finally how Joseph being sold as an Egyptian slave come into power in Egypt and how through God's overall plan saved not only the people of Egypt but that of his family.    Starting tomorrow I will start the Book of Psalm which I am of excited about. 

On Friday we last saw that Jacob once he had blessed his sons took his last breath and died. Now we will read the conclusion of the Book of Genesis.

As the Chapter opens we see that Jacob has died  and Joseph wept expressing his strong, genuine love for his father.  Joseph had his father embalmed for the travel to Canaan to be buried.  Joseph request to the "household of Pharaoh" to go to Canaan  to bury his father would indicate here that Joseph do not have immediate access to Pharaoh.  Pharaoh gives permission to Joseph to go and bury his father and they start to Canaan.

The brothers after they had buried Jacob, and now that they were back in Egypt feared that Joseph would take revenge on them since there father was dead.  They sent messengers to Joseph to beg him for his forgiveness of there trespass against him.  Joseph wept when hearing there pleas and he accepted the confession as a sincere confession  from his brothers.  He tells them "do not fear, I will provide for you and your little ones."  Wow what a loving and forgiving heart Joseph had for his brothers.

As the Book of Genesis comes to a close we see that Joseph as he is dying makes a very important pledge to his descendants, "God will visit you, and bring you up out of this land to the land that He swore to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob."  Now after years of service during which Joseph abolished private property and started a system of taxation that became very profitable for the Pharaohs.   Joseph before his death makes the the children of Israel swear to him that once they were headed to the promised land that they take his bones with them.  With this oath Joseph expressed his complete belief that God would keep his promise to give the land of Canaan to the Nation of Israel.  Joseph died at 110 and was embalmed, place in his coffin with his portrait on the outside, and was buried in his adopted land.

Today's Closing Question and Comment:  "How can you best follow Joseph's example of willingness to forgive despite mistreatment?"  In this last Chapter of Genesis we see that after Jacob had died, the brothers were worried about now that their father was dead, that Joseph would seek revenge against them
for there treatment of him, when they sold him as a slave into Egypt.  But Joseph had experienced the grace of God, and he was able to be gracious and forgiving to his brothers.  Joseph would die confident that God would bring the people of Israel back to the land of Canaan.  In life, and death , we have this same hope, that God will keep his promises to us as Believers. 

Today's Hymn: Fill My Cup Lord"

There are millions in this world who are craving, the pleasures earthly things afford
But none can match the wondrous treasure, that I find in Jesus Christ my Lord
Fill my cup, Lord; I lift it up, Lord! Come and quench this thirsting of my soul
Bread of heaven, Feed me till I want no more, Fill my cup. fill it up and make me whole!

Heavenly Father, Help us Lord to forgive those that have done us any injustice or wrong just as You forgave us.  Knowing Your grace Lord and what You have done for us, help us not only to forgive, but do them good.   
                                                                                            Amen

"All the beautiful sentiments in the world weigh less than a single lovely action"
                                                                                 James Russell Lowell

Today's Daily Bible Verse at http://www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com/ is from Isaiah 40:28-31.

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you have a spiritual defeat in your life and you yell out, "I CAN'T", God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ,
Cindi



   

Weekend Bible Verse for Sunday 27 March 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Bible Verse: 1 Peter 3: 14-16

"And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good?  But if you should suffer for righteousness sake you are blessed.  "And do not be afraid of their threats nor be troubled."  But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having good conscience that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.  For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil."

Since everything in the sin filled world does not function as it should because of sin, we as Christians will and may undergo suffering.  Peter gave the following guidelines to the Christians response to unjust suffering:

(1) Do not fear
(2) Remember Christ is Lord
(3) Remain hope filled and willing to explain why you are still positive about life (What a  
      testimony that will be)
(4) Keep on doing good so you will have a clear conscience, and your enemies will be ashamed
(5) Remember, it's better to suffer for the Lord, than to suffer for a wrong that we have done.

We as Christians, should make certain that when, or if we suffer, it is because we have served God faithfully, and not because we have done something wrong.  God specially honors those who suffer for doing what is right (Matthew 5:10-12).

Today's Hymn: "God Is Good All The Time"

If you are walking through the valley, and there are shadows all around
Do not fear, He will guide you, He will keep you safe and sound
"Cause He's promised to never leave you, Nor forsake you and His Word is true
God is Good, God is good
All the time

Heavenly Father, How good it is to know, that when we suffer unjustly for our faith in You, that You have promised us that You would not forsake nor leave us and that You, would be there for us every step of the way.  May others see Jesus in us, so that when they ask us, "Why are you so happy", we can then boldly tell them about You."
                                                                                                Amen

"Trust God to bring good out of your pain"

Today's Daily Bible Verse at http://www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com/ is from Hebrew 4:15,16. 
Have a God Filled and and a Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you have a spiritual defeat in your life and you yell out, "I CAN'T",  God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN."
                           
Yours in Christ,
Cindi
                    

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Friday 25 March 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: "Jacob's Last Words to His Sons"
Today's Scripture Reading: "Genesis 49:1-33
Today's Key Verses: Genesis 49:1 "And Jacob called his sons and said, "Gather together, that I may tell you what shall befall you in the last days."

Yesterday we read how Jacob had blessed the two sons of Joseph.  We saw how Jacob placed his right hand on the head of the younger son of Joseph, and again saw that the older would serve the younger,  just as Jacob himself had been elevated over his older brother many years before.  Now we will read the what Jacob says will "befall " his sons in the "last days".

First was Reuben the firstborn.  Jacob began with warm praise to Reuben, but then he ended it with a sharp reprimand because of his affair with his concubine Bilhad (genesis 35:22).  Reuben was trying to solidify his claims as the firstborn when he did this act, but he doomed his cause.

Simeon and Levi were spoken about together because of the actions that they took against Shechem and his people (Genesis 34).  Because there actions were excessive and an outrage against the sacred rite of circumcision,  Jacob described both of them as "instruments of cruelty" because of their anger was fierce and cruel, and was not righteous for God's honor.  They both would be scattered in Israel.

The praise for Judah was only surpassed by that to Joseph.  Judah rose to the leadership of the twelve sons as Jacob had passed over Reuben, Simeon and Levi.  His selfless actions to save his brother Benjamin, were that of a leader (Genesis 44:18-34).The "lion'  was an ancient royal symbol and the "scepter" is a staff or rod that is a symbol of royal authority.  Jacob here predicts that a royal line would arise from Judah's descendants which would be the coming Messiah.

Zebulam would be given precedence over his brother Issachar.  His blessings would be the coastlines.

Issachar was forewarned of a heavy enslavement, following a time of plenty.

Dan shall judge.  The name "Dan" is related to the word meaning "judge".  A viper by the path could mean that some of Dan's descendants would abandon their faith in the Lord, yet the godly can still expect "salvation" from the Lord.

Gad's descendants would endure hardships, but ultimate victory is promised them.

Ashner and Naphtali both received brief words but the words spoken by Jacob about their descendants were happy and hopeful.

Joesph's blessing was described as an eventual triumph.  Only the blessings given to Judah can match the praise given to Joseph.  The word "archers who shot at him", would mean Joseph's personal experience at the hands of his brothers, and then the Egyptians.  Joseph not only had great strength of Character, but he was protected by the "Mighty God of Jacob." 

The "Mighty hand of God" was the first of five titles that Jacob used to describe God as he blessed Joseph.  The second was when he called the Lord a "Great Shepherd".  God is the one Good Shepherd who truly cares for His flock.  Third Jacob praised God as "the Stone of Israel".  God in Jacob's life became for him "the Stone of Israel", the rock that is stable and trustworthy.
The fourth was that "God is the God of your father", and expressed his faith in the God of Abraham and Isaac who had blessed him.  Finally Jacob called God, "the Almighty".  With these five titles for God, Jacob prayed many and various blessings upon Joseph.

Benjamin is described of that of a wolf.  That in the morning he would devour the prey, and at night he would divide the spoil.  

The blessings are prophecies about each tribe.. Some of the blessings are obscure, but the blessings given to Judah and Joseph are clear prophecies form God about their future history.

Jacob tell his sons that he did not want to be buried in Egypt, but buried in Canaan, in the cave of Machpelah where Jacob's father, mother, grandfather and grandmother were buried.  

In the closing of this Chapter we read that after Jacob had finished commanding his sons on the place of his burial, he died and was "gathered to his people".

Today's Closing Question and Hymn: "What is the strongest impression you've made on others?"  In the middle of his prophecy to Dan, Jacob said, "I trust You for salvation, O Lord".  We as Christians can be strong if we trust in the Lord and not on our own strength and ability.  Those who are strong, attractive, or talented often find it easier to trust in themselves than in God, who have them their gifts.  Remember my friends to always thank God for what you are and have, so that your trust in God does not become misplaced. 

Today's Hymn: "Trust and Obey"

When we walk with the Lord in the light of His word, What a glory He sheds on our way!
While we do His good will, He abides with us still, And with all who will trust and obey
Trust and obey, for there's no other way, To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey. 

Heavenly Father, What a blessing it is to trust and obey you in everything that we do in our life's her on this earth.  We are so thankful that you do abide with us and help us with the strength from above.  May be always be mindful that we cannot do anything on our strength alone but with the strength and guidance that you provide for us when we TRUST and OBEY.
                                                                                                                              Amen

"God may delay, but He will surely act"

Today's Daily Bible Verse at www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com is from Lamentations 3:22-24

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day. Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you have a spiritual defeat in your life and you yell out, "I CAN'T",  God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ,
Cindi                                                                                                           

 



       

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Thursday 24 March 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: "Jacob Blesses Joseph's Sons"
Today's Scripture Reading: Genesis 48:1-22
Today's Key Verse: Genesis 48:8,9

"Then Israel saw Joseph's sons, and said, "Who are these?"  Joseph said to his father, "They are my sons, whom God has given me in this place."  And he said, "Please bring them to me, and I will bless them."

As we open Chapter 48, Joseph knew the end of Jacob's life was approaching, but the news was that he was sick.  We will see in today's reading that this Chapter contains a theme that we have read about in the Book of Genesis of two competing sons.  Cain and Abel (Genesis 4), Jacob and Esau (Genesis 25-28), Perez and Zerah (Genesis 38:27-30).  God works in ways different from the ordinary and expected course of events.

Jacob when Joseph comes to see him, recalls God's appearances to him and His promises to his family.  The adoption of Manasseth and Ephraim had lasting consequences.  First , it made it possible to set aside the tribe of Levi to serve God, and still maintain a 12 tribe division of the promised land.  Second it changed the structure of tribal authority.  Reuben, though firstborn, forfeited his birthday right by his sin with Bilhah.  Ephraim, Joseph's second son was given Reuben's tribal headship.  Joseph was raised to personal power, received the predicted  homage of his brothers, and saw his two sons adopted and given a prominent place as founders of two of the future nation's strongest tribes.

Jacob then talks to Joseph about the love of his life his mother Rachel who died giving birth to his brother Benjamin.  Jacob recalls his grief at the thought of Joseph's death and his joy at being able to see him again in this life.  Now he was not only able to see Joseph again he would get to see Joseph's sons as well.

Joseph then presents his sons before his father.  He places his fathers right hand so that it would
 rest on the older son and his left hand on the youngest.  But Jacob deliberately reversed his hands, putting Ephraim first.  Jacob in his blessing reaffirmed his great faith in the Living God.  Jacob wanted Joseph's two sons to inherit the blessing God gave to Abraham, Isaac and himself.

Joseph realized that his fathers right hand was on the wrong son, and tried to fix this but Jacob knew completely what he was doing.  Once again God overturned the expected order of things.  The older would serve the younger just as Jacob himself had been elevated over his brother so long ago.   Jacob then promises Joseph that he would return to the land of Canaan.  This promise would be fulfilled after Joseph's death. 

 In the closing verses of Chapter 48 Jacob by blessings Joseph's sons on the same level as his own sons gave to Joseph the double share.  

Closing Question and Comment: "Do you expect God's blessings?"  Jacob expresses the wonder of something we all experience.  God is so good.  He showers blessings on us that we never expected, and that we surely do not deserve.

Today's Hymn: "Blessed Assurance"

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God, Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood
This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior, all the day long
This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior, all the day long

Heavenly Father, Thank you for your continued blessings that you bestow upon those that have trusted and believed in you.  Thank you that because of Jesus we are heir's of salvation, purchased of God and we are born of Your Spirit and washed in his blood.
                                                                                                                            Amen

"Why remain in bondage to persons or practices who do not really care about you"

Today's Daily Bible Verse at www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com if from Hebrews 13:5,6.

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you a have a spiritual defeat in your day and you yell out, "I CAN'T", God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ,
Cindi

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Wednesday 23 March 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: "Jacob Blesses Pharaoh"
Today's Scripture Reading: Genesis 47:1-31
Today's Key Verse: Genesis 47:10 "So Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from before Pharaoh."

As we closed Chapter 46, we read how Joseph tells his brothers what to say when he brings them in before Pharoah regarding there occupation, and what they did.  The Egyptians disliked shepherds, and God would use the racial and ethnic prejudice of the Egyptians as a way of preserving the ethnic and spiritual identity of His own people.

As this Chapter opens, we see that Joseph goes into talk to Pharaoh about his brothers and their families situation prior to his brothers seeing him.  Then five of the brothers are brought in to see  Pharaoh, and we see that the plan of Joseph worked, because Pharoah let his family live in the Goshen, which was well watered, and well suited for shepherds and the family of Jacob.

Joseph then brings in Jacob to meet Pharaoh.   Now, instead of the Pharaoh blessing Jacob, he blesses Pharaoh in the name of the Most High and Living God.  Jacob here was literally obeying God's command to Abraham's descendants  to "be a blessing".  Pharaoh then ask Jacob how old he was.  Jacob responded to the question in humility and honesty.

With Pharaohs blessing, Joseph arranged the perfect place for his family to live.  Since Joseph was in charge of the food distribution during the seven year famine, Joseph made sure that his family were well taken care of.

The famine became more severe throughout the land including Egypt.  Because the stored food belonged to the Egyptian state, the state's power and wealth grew as the Egyptians gave up their silver, cattle and property to buy food.  The Pharaoh's ownership of the land, would later lead to abuses of power, which later in the Book of Exodus, would effect the Israelites.

We now read that with the land in the possession of the state, Joseph imposed a system of taxation on the people of Egypt.  The people would be supplied the seed for planting, but one-fifth of everything that was produces or sold, became the property of Pharaoh.  The people responded to Joseph with heart felt gratitude, because Joseph had saved them from starvation.  But we see that Jacob's family did not have to sell there possessions, because Joseph continued to give them what they needed.

Jacob, when he had been told that Joseph was alive, was willing to die when he saw his favorite son again (Genesis 45:28), but God gave him a number of years to enjoy his family, plus he wanted Joseph to promise him that he would not bury him in Egypt and wanted to bless Joseph sons before he died.   Jacob then makes Joseph make a solemn and binding promise not to bury him in Egypt and  he demonstrated his faith in God's promises by asking to be buried in Canaan, the land promised to his descendants to buried along side his grandfather Abraham and his father Isaac. 

As this Chapter ends we read that Joseph swore to him that he would not bury him in Egypt.

Closing Question and Comment:  "What would it cost you to do what God wants?"  Small problems need only small answers.  But when we face great problems, God has an opportunity to exercise His great power.   How big are your problems? Big problems put you in a perfect position to watch God give big answers.  God has great plans for us as Christians and nothing is impossible for Him. 

Today's Hymn: "I Gave You My Heart"

This is my desire, to honor You
Lord, with all my heart I worship You
All I have within me, I give You praise
All that I adore, Is in You
Lord, I give You my heart, I give you my soul
I live for You alone, Every breath that I take
Every moment I'm awake, Lord, have Your way in me

Heavenly Father, How we thank you for your strength, your power and your love.  May we as Christians always remember that there are no problems, no worries, no concerns that are to big for You, and that nothing, absolutely NOTHING is IMPOSSIBLE for You.
                                                                                                                              Amen

"The most difficult situation can be transformed by bringing it to the Lord in prayer"

Today's Daily Bible Verse at http://www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com/ is Galatians 3:13,14

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness. Love God More Today and always remember that when you have a spiritual defeat in your life that yells, "I CAN"T", God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ,
Cindi
                                                                                               

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Tuesday 22 March 2011

"Greetings Everyone in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: "Jacob's Journey to Egypt"
Today's Scripture Reading: Genesis 46:1-34
Today's Key Verse: Genesis 46: 2,3

With Jacob's journey to Egypt, it would began a four hundred year temporary stay away from the Land of Canaan.  Jacob's decision to go to Egypt, was affirmed by the Lord's direct intervention at Beersheba, where Jacob had paused to offer sacrifices, on his journey away from the land of his fathers.  In a promise that became central to the history of the Hebrews, the Lord said, "I Am God, the God of your father; do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you a great nation there."  Here God promises to be with His people even in a foreign land.  Jacob's life was nearing its end, and God promised him, that his beloved Joseph whom he thought was dead, would be with him at his bedside.    "Wow "  What a promise from Almighty God to his servant Jacob.   He is still with us even today, and we as faithful believers, can approach boldly before the throne of God, because of what His Son Jesus Christ did for us on the cross of Calvary.

In verses 8-27, we are given a listing of the family of Jacob.  From this family, would come the nation of Israel.  God's people would in His time plan, enter the Promised Land that He had promised them.

We now see in verse 28  that Jacob used Judah as the leader of the brothers.  Normally the first born (Reuben) would have been expected to lead.  Perhaps Reuben forfeited his birthright with his sin with Bilhah (Genesis 35:22), or perhaps Judah was showing more of a leadership ability than Reuben, as he did with his plea to Joseph in Genesis 44:30-34.  

Joseph prepares his chariot and goes to Goshen to meet his father, where his family would settle in the land of Egypt.   Jacob's reunion with Joseph was the crowning event of his long life.  Jacob after being reunited with his long lost son says, "Now let me die, since I have seen your face, because you are still alive.  Jacob would live another 17 years after his reunion with Joseph.

In the closing verses of this Chapter, we see the leadership abilities of Joseph.  Joseph accomplished his goals, by showing a very respectful attitude to those in authority, by using his skills in making suggestions and his knowledge of the customs of the Egyptian people.  He tells his brothers that he would go on there behalf before Pharaoh and explain the situation to him, and then tells them what they are to say to Pharaoh once they appear before him. 

Today's Closing Question and Comment: "Do you trust God in all aspects of your life"
Perhaps Jacob in our story today feared going back to Egypt because God had forbidden his father Isaac at a previous time to go to Egypt.  Also Abraham Jacob's grandfather had an unpleasant experience in Egypt.  Despite Joseph's gifts and words, Jacob feared that what happened to his grandfather and father in Egypt would also happen to him in Egypt.  We see that God then renewed his promises to Jacob and he obeys the command of the Almighty God.  We as Christians today need to keep silent and listen and follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit as He TEACHES US, GUIDES US, and SPEAKS TO US.

Today's Hymn: "How Long Has It Been"

How long has it been, Since you talked with the Lord
And told Him your heart's hidden secrets?
How long since you prayed?
How long since you stayed on your knees, Till the light shone through
How long has it been since your mind felt at ease?
How long since your heart knew no burden?  Can you call Him friend?
How long has it been since you knew, that He cared for you?

Heavenly Father, May we each and every day come BOLDLY before your throne in prayer and supplication. May we come to You as our Heavenly Father, knowing that because of the GRACE that was bestowed upon us with the death and resurrection of Your son Jesus, that when we believe in Him you have forgiven us of our sins, and the death pentaly is no longer upon us, who are washed in the blood of the Lamb.   
                                                                                  Amen

"When traveling in your Egypt, don't lose sight of the land God has promised you"

Today's Daily Bible Verse at http://www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com/ is from 1 John 4:9-11

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and remember that when you have a spiritual defeat in your life that yells out, "I CAN"T", God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ,
Cindi   

  

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Monday 21 March 2011

"Greetings Everyone in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: "Joseph Revealed to His Brothers"
Today's Scripture Reading: Genesis 45:1-28
Today's Key Verse: Genesis 45:3 "Then Joseph said to his brothers, I am Joseph; does my father still live?'  But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed in his presence."

On Friday, we read how Joseph had instructed his steward to once again return the brothers money inside there grain sacks but also this time, to also to put his cup in the bag of Benjamin.  While the brothers were on the road on there return to Canaan with the grain, Joseph's steward overtook them and they he accused them of stealing Joseph's cup.  Judah declares there innocence.  The bags were checked and the cup was found in Benjamin's bag.  The brothers were brought back to Joseph, and when Joseph was going to make Benjamin his slave, and that the rest of the brothers were free to go, Judah made his earnest and emotional appeal to Joseph, and offered his own life, to save Benjamin's.

As Chapter 45 opens, we now are told that Joseph could bear no more of this emotional drama,  and that he then dismisses his Egyptian servants, and cries so loud that his voice was heard throughout the palace. Joseph then, finally reveals himself to his stunned brothers.  When Joseph said this to them, he realized that his physical appearance, his Egyptian manner, his high position and his total power over them, seemed to make his revelation of whom he was unbelievable.  Joseph calls them to come close to him so they can see his face and hear his voice.  "Wow"  What love and forgiveness that he had for his brothers.

He tells his brothers that they had unwittingly been following the divine plan, "for God sent me before you to preserve life" (Genesis 45:5).  He then tells them that since the famine was to last another 5 years, that they were to return to Canaan, and bring his father Jacob, and the rest of his family down to Egypt.

Pharaoh, now hears of this reunion, and he joins in on the celebration.  He sends to Jacob presents and promised his family, "the best of the land of Egypt" Genesis 45:18).  I can just imagine the joy of the brothers as they head back to Canaan to bring the great news that Joseph was alive to their father Jacob.   What rejoicing there must have been.

When the caravan of well provisioned wagons reached Canaan, Jacob's sons tell him that Joseph is alive in Egypt.  Jacob was stunned.  But when he saw the gifts that Pharaoh had sent with his sons, he believed them.  Jacob immediately was determined to visit his beloved Rachel's oldest son.   Jacob would once again see his favorite son, whom he believed to be dead, before he died. 

Todays' Question and Comment: "When did you last let your family know you appreciated them?
As this story unfolded starting in Chapter 37, we saw how the brothers of Joseph, got rid of him by selling him into Egypt.  But we see that God used their evil actions to fulfill His ultimate plan.  He had send Joseph ahead to preserve their lives, save Egypt, and prepare the way for the beginning of the nation of Israel.  God is always in total control.  His plans are not dictated by our human actions.  When others intend evil toward you, remember that they are God's tools, and everything that happens is done according to His divine timetable.

Today's Hymn: "For The Glory Of Your Name"

God, You keep us without failing, As You watch us from above
In our comings and our goings, Sheltered by your precious love
In the pouring rain of Mercy, Comes the grace by which we're saved
For the glory of Your Name, For the glory of Your Name

Heavenly Father, How great it is to know, that You are aways in control of everything that happens in our lives, everything that happens around us, and everything that happens on this planet and the universe beyond.  May we like Joesph, be granted the ability to forgive those that do us wrong, so that in doing so we might bring glory and honor to Your name.
                                                    ,                                                                       Amen

"Expect God to change the hearts of those who sin against you, even as He has been changing you".

Today's Bible Verse at www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com is Proverbs 3:6

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and when you have a spiritual failure in your day that yells out, I CAN"T", God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ,
Cindi  

Weekend Bible Verse for Sunday 20 March 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Bible Verse: Galatians 2:21

"I do not set aside the the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain."

God's Grace is transforming.  "Grace", is a word filled a wonderful meaning that expresses our understanding and our relationship with God.  Grace views God's attitude toward us as one of love and acceptance. 

Grace. is an admission that if unaided, we would be trapped by sin, and unable to win God's favor.  Grace, is the announcement that Our God will come to the aid of those that believe in Him, and that His salvation is a free gift.

Grace, is a way of life, and an attitude that we as believers have, to reject dependence on our own strength or abilities, and at the same time affirms that through Jesus, and him alone, we are able to live good and righteous lives.  

Grace, is choosing to be, and do good, and relying on Christ for the enablement to do so.  

Today's Hymn:  "Count Your Blessings" (verse 1)

When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost
Count your many blessings, name them one by one
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done
Count your many blessings, name them one by one
Count your blessings, see what God hath done
Count your blessings, name them one by one
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Heavenly Father, What a Loving, Caring and Gracious God You are.  Thank you Heavenly Father, for the Grace that You provide to those that believe in You, and the free gift of Salvation that we have in Jesus Christ.   May we live our life's daily for you and reply on the strength of the Holy Spirit to do so.
                                                                                        Amen

"No matter who we are or where we come from, God can always use us"

Today's Daily Bible verse at http://www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com/ is from from Revelation 22: 18-21.

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you have spiritual defeat in your day that yells out, "I Can't", God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ,
Cindi

Weekend Bible Verse for Saturday 19 March 2011

"Greetings Everyone in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Bible Verse: John 9:1-4: "Now as Jesus passed by, He saw a man who was blind from birth.  And his disciples asked him, saying, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"  Jesus answered, "neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him.  I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work.  As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world."

The beggar was blind from birth.  Beggars would sit by the temple gates to wait for gifts from the worshipers.  Therefore it is likely that this these verses took place near the temple.  In those times it was commonly believed that sickness was a result of sin.  It would follow then that sins committed by the baby still in the womb or sin committed by parents could result in a baby being born with a disease.  Jesus here rejects both of these suggestions.

God allowed the man to be born blind so that Jesus could heal him and thus reveal the works of God, "His Healing Power".

We as Christians come to know the truth by putting the words of Jesus into practice.  We who are blind and cannot see spiritual reality not only come to see reality, but we experience it as well.  Everyday presents each of us opportunity to help others.  We need to be like Jesus in this ministry principle.

Today's Hymn: "Cone To My Rescue"

Falling on my knees in worship, Giving all I am to see Your face
Lord all I am is Yours

My whole life I place in Your hands, God of mercy humbled I bow down
In Your presence at Your throne

I called You answered, And You came to my rescue and I
I wanna be where You are

In my life, be lifted high, In our world be lifted high
In our love be lifted high

Heavenly Father, How thankful we are that Your Son Jesus Christ came to this earth to seek and to save which are lost.  How thankful we are that nothing is to hard nor impossible for you.  Help us Lord to place our all in You.
                                                                                        Amen

"When we are dictate to God's service, our work will bear good fruit"

Have a God Filled and a Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you have a spiritual defeat in your day and you yell out, "I Can't", listen to God who whispers to you "BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ
Cindi

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Friday 18 March 2011

Today's Blog Title: "Joseph's Cup"
Today's Blog Scripture: Genesis 44: 1-34
Today's Key Verse: Genesis: 44: 16 "Then Judah said, "what shall we say to my lord? What shall we speak? Or how shall we clear ourselves?  God has found out the iniquity of your servants; here we are, my lord's slaves, both we and he also with who the cup was found."

In the close of Chapter 43, we saw how Joseph (whom still hadn't identified himself yet) eating and drinking with his brothers.  Today's chapter opens with Joseph, again ensuring that their money was secretly returned in their grain sacks.  This time however, Joseph continues to test the character of his brothers, by having his personal silver cup hidden in young Benjamin's sack.

The brothers were barely outside the city limits when they were overtaken by Joseph's household steward, who accused them of stealing the cup. The steward says to them, "Why have you returned evil for good?" (Genesis 44:4)  The brothers were so certain of there innocence, that they offered to become slaves if the cup was found.  The steward tells the brothers, "that only the person in whom's sack was found the cup would become the slave."

The tense search begins with Reuben's sack first, and then continues down at last to Benjamin's sack.  When the cup was pulled out, the brothers in genuine despair tore their clothes, because they could not let Benjamin die.  Remember in Genesis 39:31-33 instead of tearing there own clothes in grief for Joseph, they had torn his robe and dipped it in blood, to cover up what they had done.  

The brothers are brought back to Joseph.  Even though Reuben was the oldest, we now see that Judah speaks to Joseph.  He offered no excuses, but offered himself and his brothers as slaves.  Joseph told them that the one who's cup was found, would be his slave and that the rest of them could, "Go up in peace to your father."  Joseph in saying this, was testing them again to see if they would leave there youngest brother as a slave in Egypt as they had done him.  

As this Chapter closes, we see that Judah makes a stand for Benjamin.  He tells Joseph the deep despair his father would experience, if he lost Benjamin.  Instead of showing indifference as Judah had in the past, he offered his own life to save Benjamin. Judah's remorse for having done wrong to Joseph, was now complete with this statement before "Joseph".

Closing Question and Comment: "How do you react when someone points out a mistake you've made?"  When Judah was younger he showed no regard for his brother Joseph or his father, Jacob.  First he convinced his brothers to sell Joseph as a slave, then he joined his brothers in lying to his father about Joseph's fate.  But in today's story we see the change had taken place in Judah!  The man who once sold Joesph into slavery, had now offered to become a slave himself to save another favorite brother.  He was so concerned for his father and Benjamin, that he was willing to die for them.  When we are ready to give up hope on ourselves or others, remember that God can change even the most selfish personality.

Today's Hymn: "Faith Unlocks The Door"

Have faith when you speak to the master, that all He asks of you
Prayer is the key to heaven, But faith unlocks the door
Prayer is the key to heaven, But faith unlocks the door

Heavenly Father, How thankful we are you never give up on us.  Help us Lord, never to give up hope on ourselves, or families or friends.  May we always remember "That Nothing Is Impossible With You".
                                                                                                   Amen

"Moment by moment, you will grow in your ability to live and walk by faith as you say Yes to God and No to sin."
                          Catherine Martin (from her book "A Woman's Walk In Grace"  

Today's Daily Bible Verse Blog at www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com is from: 1 John 4:9-11 

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you have a spiritual defeat in your day that yells out, "I Can't, God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN.

Yours in Christ,
Cindi

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Thursday 17 March 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: "Joseph's Brothers Return with Benjamin"
Today's Scripture Reading: Genesis 43:1-34
Today's Key Verse: Genesis 43:30: "Now his heart yearned for his brother; so Joseph made haste and sought somewhere to weep.  And he went into his chamber and wept there."

As this Chapter opens, we see that the grain that the brothers had bought in Egypt, is now running out.  Jacob was determined that Benjamin not be taken down into Egypt. But, the harshness of the prolonged famine, eventually undermined Jacob's resolve. Now with the grain gone, Jacob realizes that he must now deal with having to send Benjamin to Egypt with his brothers to buy more food.  Jacob then tells them to double the money this time so that they could pay back the original amount.

Jacob then blames his sons, for telling the Egyptian there was still another brother.  His sons tell him that they were simply answering the questions that he was asking.  Judah promised that he would keep Benjamin safe.  Judah had made big changes in his attitude since we saw him in Genesis 38:1 where he had left the family.  Now instead of leaving his family, he was protecting his younger brother and he was concerned about his fathers welfare.

Jacob realizes now, that there is no other choise except to send Benjamin, to Egypt with his brothers.  The brothers were welcomed  back into Egypt with an invitation to the Governor's house, and Joseph continued to disguise his identify.

When they arrive at Joseph's house the brothers were surprised.  The last time, they were treated as spies and criminals and now they were invited to Joseph's house.  Simeon is now brought back to them, and Joseph's servant brings them water, and they wash there feet.  In verse 26, we now see that the brothers bow down to Joesph for the second time, just as his dreams as a boy had predicted.  

Benjamin had not been part of the earlier conspiracy against Joseph.  The relationship between Joseph and his younger brother was close.  Just the sight of Benjamin forced him to withdraw to an inner chamber to weep in yearning for his brother.  Then he washed his face and proceeded with his disguise.

The brothers were treated to a bountiful, merry feast that astonished the brothers, because of the fact that they were treated with great honor.  Joesph  continues to maintain his disguise by following the Egyptian custom of eating at a table separate from the Hebrews.  The brothers must have been surprised, and unsettled that they had been seated according to their ages.  At the close of Chapter 43, we see that Benjamin's servings was 5 times more as any of the other brothers, and as Joseph and his brothers drank and ate, the brothers still had no clue that the Egyptian official in front of them, was there brother.

Closing Question and Comment: "How well do you know how to forgive?"  In today's story, Judah accepted full responsibility for Benjamin's safety.  He did not know what that might mean for him, but he was determined to carry it out.  In the end , we will see in Chapter 44, that it was Judah's stirring words to Joseph, that finally caused him to break down, and reveal himself to his brothers.  Accepting and fulfilling responsibilities is difficult, but it builds character and confidence, earns other's respect, and motives us to complete our work.  When you have be given an assignment to do, or a responsibility to fulfill, commit yourself to seeing it through, so that others may Jesus in You. 

Through You the bind will see, Through You the mute will sing
Through You the dead will rise, Through You all hearts will praise
Through You the darkness flees, Through You my heart scream
I am free
I am free to run, I am free to dance
I am free to live for You, I am free.

Heavenly Father, Grant us the ability to forgive others just as You have forgiven us.  Help us in completing the assignments and responsibilities that are assigned to us to the best of our ability.  Help us to remember that you O Lord are at work in every detail of our life's.
                                                                                                                              Amen

"God offers His promises to give us hope, especially in the darkest seasons of our lives".
                   Catherine Martin (from her Book "A Woman's Walk In Grace")

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace, Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you have a spiritual defeat yells, "I Can't",
God whispers, "BUT I CAN'.

Yours in Christ,
Cindi   

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Wednesday 16 March 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: "The Brothers Return to Canaan"
Today's Scripture Reading: Genesis 42:25-38 (part 2)
Today's Key Verse: Genesis 42:37 "Then Reuben spoke to his father, saying"Kill my two sons if I do not bring him back to you; put him in my hands, and I will bring him back to you."

Yesterday in part 1 of of Genesis 42, we saw that Jacob had sent his 10 sons to Egypt to buy food due to the famine.  He kept Benjamin with him, lest something happen to him on the way to Egypt.  The brothers were brought into the presence of Joseph, who was the second in command in Egypt, but his brothers didn't recognize him, but he instantly knew who they were.  Joseph in testing them accused them of spying twice and also had them put in prison for 3 days.  He now sends them back to Canaan with the grain, but holds Simeon in prison with the command to bring back Benjamin, that he might believe that they are not spies.

As there sacks were filled with grain for there trip back to Canaan, Joseph instructed that there money be put back in the grain sacks.  He perhaps did this because the returned money would enable the brothers to come back for another purchase.  One of them on the trip, opens his bag and finds his money in his bag. Seeing the money in the bag they began trembling with fear.  They realized that they were on the receiving end of divine punishment.  In verse 28, they accuse God of there troubles when they say, "What is this that God has done to us".

As they arrive home, they truthfully told Jacob of all that happened while they were in Egypt.  We now see that when all the bags containing grain were opened, each contained the money they paid in Egypt for the grain.  The discovery of money in one bag might have been considered a mistake, but to have money in all the sacks, must have frightened the brothers even more.

When Jacob sees that all the money has been returned in the bags of grain, his grief increased.  Jacob says, "you have bereaved me".  One son was death (Joseph), another was in prison in Egypt (Simeon), and an Egyptian official now wanted Benjamin brought back to him to prove that the brothers weren't spies.

We now see how Reuben took the lead once again.  He tried to comfort his father, just as he had tried to stop his brothers from hurting Joseph (Genesis 37:22)

As Chapter 42 closes, Jacob in verse 30 says" My son shall not go....".  He felt that he had lost enough sons and he didn't want to risk losing his favorite son Benjamin. With sorrow Jacob tells his sons that the risk of losing Benjamin in addition to having already lost Joseph would lead him into depression and would cause him to have an early death.

Today's Closing Question and Comment: "Do you ask God to change the hearts of those who have done you wrong, even as He is changing you?"  Joseph could not grasp the purpose God had in mind, when the Lord permitted his captivity.  But the story of Joseph helps us to remember, that God always looks at the whole picture.  The Lord weaves the history of individuals, families, and nations into a single picture.  We each play our part, and each of us must trust God with the whole picture, even when our part seems painful at the time.

Today's Hymn: "Trust and Obey"

When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word
What a glory He sheds on our way!
While we do His good will, He abides with us still
And with all who will trust and obey
Trust and obey, for there's no other way
To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey

"Believers should be careful not only in what they say, but also in how they say it."

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you have a spiritual defeat in your day and you yell, "I Can't", God whispers to you,"BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ,
Cindi

      

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Tuesday 15 March 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: "Joseph's Brothers Go to Egypt"
Today's Scripture Reading: Genesis 42: 1-24 (part 1)
Today's Key Verse: Genesis 42:22 "And Reuben answered them saying, "Did I not speak to you, saying, "Do not sin against the boy; and you would not listen?  Therefore behold, his blood id now required of us."

The wide spread famine that we saw at the ending of Chapter 41, would again set in motion the domestic drama for Jacob's sons.  Because of the worldwide famine, and desperate to feed his household, Jacob sends his 10 oldest sons down to Egypt to buy grain, but keeps Benjamin at home with him.  He was afraid that Benjamin might be harmed on the long journey.

When the tired, and hungry brothers, were brought before the well dressed Egyptian official, wearing the Pharaoh's signet and the gold chain of office, they did not recognize the arrogant young boy, they had nearly murdered.  But Joseph instantly recognized them, and he initiated a series of tests and ordeals. 

Joseph remembered his dreams, and he released his feelings.  He accused them of something he knew that they did not do, he accused them of spying.  Joseph set out to learn whether his brothers has changed for the better, or would they betray each other when under pressure?

I would imagine that at the mention of his younger brother Benjamin, Joseph would have had a hard time containing his emotions.  With the words, "one is no more", it must have been unbearable for Joseph, knowing that his brothers thought he was dead, yet he was right before there eyes. 
   
After accusing them of spying for the second time (the brothers must have been overcome with fear for there life's now) Joseph demands that Benjamin, the youngest son of his father Jacob, be brought to him, to prove that they are telling the truth, and that they are not spies.  He then has them thrown into prison for three days.

After three days in prison, they are brought before Joseph again.  In verse 18, Joseph gives a clue to his brothers about who he is, when he said, "I fear the one God".  Joseph tells them to bring there youngest brother to him, and to make sure they return with him, he is going to put in prison one of the brothers until they came back with Benjamin.

His brothers now talk in there language, not knowing that the person they stood in front of was there brother and he understood what they were saying.  The brothers talk among themselves saying, that this is happening because of what they did to Joseph.  Reuben (the only one who tried to save Joseph on that day (Genesis 37:22) tells his brothers in verse 22, "Did I not speak to you saying, "Do not sin against the boy; and you not listen?  Therefore behold, his blood is now required of us."

At last Joseph, went hearing Reuben say this, could not control his emotions any longer, so he went away from their presence and wept.  As we conclude part 1 of this Chapter we see that when Joseph returned to his brothers he talked with them again, and since Reuben was the firstborn, and had been Joseph's principle defender those many years ago, Joseph took Simeon, the next oldest as his hostage. 

Today's Closing Question and Comment: "What would you do with a chance for revenge?"  Joseph remembered his dreams about his brothers bowing down to him (Genesis 37:6-9).  Those dreams were coming true!  As a young boy Joseph was boastful about his dreams.  As a man, he no longer showed off his superior status.  He did not feel the need to say, "I told you so."  It was not time yet to reveal his identity, so he kept quite.  Sometimes it is best for us to remain quite, even when we would like to have the last word.

Today's Hymn: "Healer"

You hold my every moment, You calm my raging seas
You walk with me through fire, and heal my disease
I trust in You, I trust in You
I believe You're my healer, I believe You are all I need
I believe that You are my portion, I believe You're more
Than enough for me, Jesus You're all I need
Nothing is impossible for You, Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible for You, You hold my world in Your hands

Heavenly Father, As we go about serving you, we ask Lord that you will make us humble in our dealings with others.  Thank you for your Grace that allows us to come boldly before you because of what Your Son Jesus Christ did for us upon the cross of Calvary.  Indeed Lord NOTHING is IMPOSSIBLE for YOU.
                                                                                                      Amen

"GRACE finds you wherever you are and goes out of its way to save you.  Then GRACE carries you into heaven"
                                          Catherine Martin (from her book "A Woman's Walk In Grace")

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember that when you have a spiritual failure in your life that yells, "I Can't",  God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ,
Cindi



  

Bible Scripture and Hymn for Monday 14 March 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Blog Title: "Joseph's Rise to Power"
Today's Scripture Reading: Genesis 41:37-57 (part 3)
Today's Key Verse: "And Pharaoh said to Joseph, "See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt."

Today is part 3 of Chapter 41.  In Part 1 we talked about the dream of Pharaoh and how no one in Egypt could tell him the meaning of his dreams.  In part 2 we read about the chief butler finally remembering about Joseph and his ability to interpret dreams and tells Pharaoh about it and Joseph is brought before him. Pharaoh tells him his dreams, and we saw that Joseph "instantly" told Pharaoh the meaning of the dreams.  Now we will start part 3 of this Chapter "Joseph's Rise to Power".

After Joseph had finished telling Pharaoh the meaning of the dreams, I would think that Pharaoh was excited about the fact that finally someone was able to interpret his dreams.  He found the advice of Joseph to be good and he acknowledged that Joseph was extraordinarily wise.  Here we see a pagan king testify to the reality of God's power in the life of Joseph.

Pharaoh, because of Joseph being so wise, puts Joseph in charge of collecting the grain.  Joseph was given enormous power in that only Pharaoh was above him.  Pharaoh gives Joseph a signet ring which would indicated that his orders would have the same effect as if Pharaoh had given the orders himself.   The people of Egypt bowed to Joseph, not as a sign of worshipping him, but a sign of respect to Joseph's position.

Pharaoh gives Joseph an Egyptian name of "Zaphnath-Paaneah" (The God Speaks and Lives), as well as a wife.  13 years had passed since Joseph was sold by his brothers into Egypt, and just as God had revealed, the seven years of plenty had come.  The task before Joseph was big, but Joseph was a wise planner and the skills that he had learned in Potiphar's house and in prison was helpful during this very busy time.  Here we see the God being with Joseph in this task and He made Joseph succeed.

During this time of plenty and two years before the famine, we read in 41:50-52 about the birth of Joseph's two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim.  Beginning with 41:53 we now see that the seven years of famine was beginning.  In the closing of Chapter 41 we read that Joseph enriched the treasury of Pharaoh by selling grain not only to the Egyptians but also to "all countries".  Not only had Joseph testified to Egypt concerning the True and Living God, he now was able to testify to all nations.  

Today's closing Question and Comment: "How do you handle big responsibilities?"  Joseph rose quickly to the top.  From being in prison one moment to walking in Pharaoh's palace the next.  His training for this important position involved being a slave and then a prisoner.  In each of these situations he learned the importance of serving God and others.  Whatever our situations, no matter how undesirable, we as Christians need to consider it part of our training program for serving God. 

Today's Hymn: "Hungry"

Hungry I come to You for I know You satisfy
I am empty but I know Your love does not run dry
So I wait for You, So I wait for You
I'm falling on my knees, Offering all of me
Jesus you are all this heart is living for  
Broken I run to you for Your arms are opened wide
I am weary, but I know Your touch restores my life
So I wait for You, So I wait for You.

Heavenly Father, How thankful we are that you are there for us with open arms.  Help us Lord to do your will in our daily life's no matter how much we might not like it or find it unappealing.  Let us wake each morning and like the prophet Isaiah said in in Isaiah 6:8, "Here am I!  Sent me".
                                                                                                                                             Amen

"Sometimes we need to go beyond the call of duty in order to further the Kingdom of God"

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today, and always remember that when you have a spiritual failure in your life that yells, "I Can't", God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".
                                 
Yours in Christ,
Cindi
     

Blog Weekend Bible Verse for Sunday 13 March 2011

"Greetings Everyone in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

Today's Bible Verse: Galatians 4:6,7 "And because you are sons, God has send forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, "Abba Father!"  Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ."

"Wow"!!!! When we accept Jesus into our heart we are no longer slaves to sin, but become sons and daughters of God and if we are sons and daughters, we also become heirs of God through Jesus Christ.  

Just as God sent forth His Son in the fullness of time (Galatians 4:4) in world history, so God has sent forth the Spirit of Christ into our hearts at just the right time for every person who believes in Christ.  We as Christians, as God's sons and daughters can now know the closeness and intimacy with the Father because of the Holy Spirit.

Breathe on me, breath of God, Fill me with life anew
That I may love what Thou dost love, And do what Thou wouldst do
Breathe on me, breath of God, Until my heart is pure
Until with Thee I will one will, To do and to endure
Breathe on me breathe of God, Blend all my soul with Thine
Until this earthly part of me, Glows with Thy fire divine.
Breathe on me breathe of God, So shall I never die
But live with Thee the perfect life, Of Thine eternity

Heavenly Father,  Thank you for the indwelling Holy Spirit that You so graciously send to us the moment that we accept Your Son Jesus Christ into our life's.  Thank you Holy Spirit for guiding us, teaching us and convicting us.    May our life's be on fire for Thee in all that we say and do.
                                                                                                                           Amen

"When your faith is proven to be genuine because it is resting on the unchangeable, immovable facts in God's word, great praise and glory will result"
                  Catherine Martin (From her Book "A Woman's Walk In Grace)

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember, when you have a spiritual defeat that yells, "I Can't", God whispers to you, "BUT I CAN".

Yours in Christ
Cindi  

Weekenk Bible Verse for Saturday 12 March 2011

"Greetings Everyone in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"

I would like to start out with a Praise.  My Daughter Amanda, last night (11 March) brought "Roman Isaac" into the world.  It is her first child and my 3rd grandson to go along with one granddaughter.  Please keep them both in your prayers.

Today's Bible Verse: 1 Peter 5:5-7 "Likewise you younger people submit yourself to your elders.  Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.  Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He care for you."

"Be submissive" calls for interpersonal, rather  that situational submission.  What makes interpersonal submission easy, whether in marriage or in the church, is the respect won by the husband, wife, or leader through love and example.  If we are sure a leader loves us, it is easier for us to be responsible to there guidance.   We as Christians, need to apply this in our everyday relationships.  Rather than demand children, or others to obey because of our role, we need to win their respect by love and example.

We should be humble  rather than arrogant, in our relationships with others because, according to Proverbs 3:34, God "gives grace to the humble".  If we as Christians want to grow, and have strength to overcome despite suffering, we must remain dependent on God.

When we cast it is a decisive act.  It means to take our load that we have been carrying, and literally throw it upon Jesus.  What a relief it is to realize that Jesus, is willing to take upon Himself, the things that we are anxious about. 

Today's Hymn: "Burdens Are Lifted At Calvary"

Days are filled with sorrow and care, Hearts are lonely and drear
Burdens are lifted at Calvary, Jesus is very near
Burdens are lifted at Calvary, Calvary, Calvary
Burdens are lifted at Calvary, Jesus is very near

Heavenly Father, How great it is to know, that as Christians, that we can come to You and place our burdens, and problems of this life upon you.  How wonderful it is to know, that when we have  storms and trails in our life, that You Jesus, are there to carry us through it all.
                                                                                                                       Amen

"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies with us"
                                                                                   Ralph Waldo Emerson

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord with Gladness.  Love God More Today and always remember, when you have a spiritual failure that yells, "I Can't", listen to God whisper to you, "BUT I CAN".  

Yours in Christ,
Cindi