“If” – Our Choice
Leviticus 26
Ken Trevithick
3 ‘If you walk in My statutes and keep My commandments, and perform them,”
14 ‘But if you do not obey Me, and do not observe all these commandments,
15 and if you despise My statutes, or if your soul abhors My judgments, so that you do not perform all My commandments, but break My covenant,”
18 ‘And after all this, if you do not obey Me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins”
21 ‘Then, if you walk contrary to Me, and are not willing to obey Me, I will bring on you seven times more plagues, according to your sins.”
Observation
Here in Leviticus I am reminded of the choices that God offers. As I read through the entire passage, the “If”, or contingent statements in this passage, I was reminded of our responsibility as we make a choices to the commands of God. These choices will have consequences. I realized throughout history as God has dealt with the nation of Israel they were called upon to make choices. In Deuteronomy 30:19 God states of Israel, as they were ready to enter the Promised Land, “I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live.”
Application
Here in Leviticus, but also in Deuteronomy 30, there is stated the reality of our choices. From the passage in Deuteronomy I see the heart of God for His people, “…therefore choose life…” God gives His commands to His people in order for them to find life in Him. To choose otherwise has consequences, as I have found in my own life. The number of times I have said to myself, “I know I shouldn’t do this!” only later to say to myself, “I knew I shouldn’t have done that!” God’s Word is given to be a lamp to our feet, and a light to our path, but God leaves the choice up to us.
Prayer
Father, I want to thank-you for the gift of Your Word. I ask that You remind me of the power of the choices I make, and the reality of the consequences to these choices. Help me to choose the wise path.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Holiness to the Lord
Holiness to the Lord
Pastor Ken Trevithick
Leviticus 10:3
“By those who come near Me
I must be regarded as holy;
And before all the people
I must be glorified.’”
Observation
As Nadab and Abihu, sons of Aaron, approached the altar of God in an inappropriate way fire went out from the Lord and consumed them. Some have speculated different offenses to ritual. But to me, it appears that God is setting off His Holiness, and the fact that His people must take holiness seriously. It is in the Holiness of God, exemplified in His people, God wants to be demonstrated within the family of God and to the world. There is the statement, “I must be regarded as holy;” a declaration of how His people should approach Him. It is in this approach to God that we will be demonstrating truth consistent with His nature.
Application
It is important to understand the seriousness of our service to the Lord, and His commitment to a “holiness” that exemplifies who He is. It is important that I, and all who serve God remember this important principle. Some might say, “That is in the Old Testament.” But I was reminded of a similar incident recorded in the New Testament. It took place when Ananias and Sapphira attempted to lie to the Holy Spirit. I am reminded of Peter’s exhortation to “Be holy, for I am holy,” a quote from Leviticus 11:44. May we be encouraged to demonstrate His holiness as we serve Him in the world today.
Prayer
Lord, I ask that you help me to take “holiness” as seriously as You do. I invite Your reminder to my heart and mind to the importance of this reality to You.
Pastor Ken Trevithick
Leviticus 10:3
“By those who come near Me
I must be regarded as holy;
And before all the people
I must be glorified.’”
Observation
As Nadab and Abihu, sons of Aaron, approached the altar of God in an inappropriate way fire went out from the Lord and consumed them. Some have speculated different offenses to ritual. But to me, it appears that God is setting off His Holiness, and the fact that His people must take holiness seriously. It is in the Holiness of God, exemplified in His people, God wants to be demonstrated within the family of God and to the world. There is the statement, “I must be regarded as holy;” a declaration of how His people should approach Him. It is in this approach to God that we will be demonstrating truth consistent with His nature.
Application
It is important to understand the seriousness of our service to the Lord, and His commitment to a “holiness” that exemplifies who He is. It is important that I, and all who serve God remember this important principle. Some might say, “That is in the Old Testament.” But I was reminded of a similar incident recorded in the New Testament. It took place when Ananias and Sapphira attempted to lie to the Holy Spirit. I am reminded of Peter’s exhortation to “Be holy, for I am holy,” a quote from Leviticus 11:44. May we be encouraged to demonstrate His holiness as we serve Him in the world today.
Prayer
Lord, I ask that you help me to take “holiness” as seriously as You do. I invite Your reminder to my heart and mind to the importance of this reality to You.
Seek And Search
Kirk Wells
2-10-09
Scripture: Acts 17:11
And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those of Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth.
Observation:
Don’t let your own personal doctrine get in the way of God’s truths.
Application:
This is the way everyone of us should approach Christianity, with an eagerness and open-mindedness. Let God reveal those things He deems necessary for us to know.The only way He can reveal them is through the Scriptures. That’s where our commitment comes in, to find the truth by reading the Bible everyday, seeking out our unanswered questions. Everytime someone speaks about the Gospel we don’t understand, and in order to not be deceived, we must find the truth ourselves. Never completely put your faith in man, he will let you down. But, the Word of God has and will remain faithful forever!
Prayer:
Father help me to be eager, open-minded and always in your Word. In Jesus’ name. AMEN
Kirk Wells
2-10-09
Scripture: Acts 17:11
And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those of Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth.
Observation:
Don’t let your own personal doctrine get in the way of God’s truths.
Application:
This is the way everyone of us should approach Christianity, with an eagerness and open-mindedness. Let God reveal those things He deems necessary for us to know.The only way He can reveal them is through the Scriptures. That’s where our commitment comes in, to find the truth by reading the Bible everyday, seeking out our unanswered questions. Everytime someone speaks about the Gospel we don’t understand, and in order to not be deceived, we must find the truth ourselves. Never completely put your faith in man, he will let you down. But, the Word of God has and will remain faithful forever!
Prayer:
Father help me to be eager, open-minded and always in your Word. In Jesus’ name. AMEN
Thursday, January 29, 2009
1-27-09
Kirk Wells
Can’t Do It Alone
Scripture; Exodus 17:12
Moses’ arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up.So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset.
Observation;
The strongest, most physically fit human is limited when he tries to do anything under his own power.
Application;
In Proverbs it tells us a three strand cord isn’t easily broken. The strands work together for strength. This is the way our Christian life should be also, each one of us standing with a brother or sister, ready to lift them up when they start to weaken from the battle. And the more of us there are, the more strength we have, and the longer we can endure. God created us one for another! That’s one reason God said it wasn’t good for man to be alone.We all need lifted up at times, and encouraged!!!
Prayer;
Lord, help me to not pass by a brother or sister that needs me to stand with them and lift them up, when they are weak. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Kirk Wells
Can’t Do It Alone
Scripture; Exodus 17:12
Moses’ arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up.So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset.
Observation;
The strongest, most physically fit human is limited when he tries to do anything under his own power.
Application;
In Proverbs it tells us a three strand cord isn’t easily broken. The strands work together for strength. This is the way our Christian life should be also, each one of us standing with a brother or sister, ready to lift them up when they start to weaken from the battle. And the more of us there are, the more strength we have, and the longer we can endure. God created us one for another! That’s one reason God said it wasn’t good for man to be alone.We all need lifted up at times, and encouraged!!!
Prayer;
Lord, help me to not pass by a brother or sister that needs me to stand with them and lift them up, when they are weak. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Who is like the Lord? - Pastor Ken Trevethick
Who is like the Lord? - Pastor Ken Trevethick
Exodus 15:11-13
11 “Who is like You, O Lord, among the gods?
Who is like You, glorious in holiness,
Fearful in praises, doing wonders?
12 You stretched out Your right hand;
The earth swallowed them.
13 You in Your mercy have led forth
The people whom You have redeemed;
You have guided them in Your strength
To Your holy habitation.
Observation
As the nation Israel has just been delivered from the Egyptians by the mighty power of the Lord, they sing this glorious praise to Him. Israel had been backed up against the Red Sea and Pharaoh’s army of 600 choice chariots, all the chariots of Egypt (according to Scripture) 50,000 horsemen, and 200,000 footmen (according to Josephus). It was God’s pillar of fire that held back the army of Pharaoh, as Moses extended the rod of God and the Red Sea parted, the wind blew all night long; and in the morning Israel passed through the Red Sea to the other side. When Pharaoh’s army followed God allowed them all to enter into the passageway between the water, and when they were all in the passageway He closed the waters over them. The statement above is a declaration of how great God is in His ability to deliver from disaster.
Application
What a terrible place to be – in the midst of a disastrous situation, looking at overwhelming circumstances – I remember when I have been there. I am reminded of the words of Moses in this situation, “13And Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. 14The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” [Exodus 14: 13-14] The Apostle Paul says something similar in Ephesians 6, verse 13, “Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” When I find myself surrounded by circumstances that seem overwhelming and hopeless may I turn to You oh Lord and be guided to Your holy habitation!
Prayer
Father, thank-you for Your precious and magnificent promises, those realities by which we can become a partaker of Your divine nature. Help me in the most difficult of times to remember You offer a place of hope and rest. I want to thank-you for Your love and the promise of deliverance from the enemy and ultimately from the world. I ask You to help me not to be afraid and to stand still; that I too might sing of Your power to deliver.
Exodus 15:11-13
11 “Who is like You, O Lord, among the gods?
Who is like You, glorious in holiness,
Fearful in praises, doing wonders?
12 You stretched out Your right hand;
The earth swallowed them.
13 You in Your mercy have led forth
The people whom You have redeemed;
You have guided them in Your strength
To Your holy habitation.
Observation
As the nation Israel has just been delivered from the Egyptians by the mighty power of the Lord, they sing this glorious praise to Him. Israel had been backed up against the Red Sea and Pharaoh’s army of 600 choice chariots, all the chariots of Egypt (according to Scripture) 50,000 horsemen, and 200,000 footmen (according to Josephus). It was God’s pillar of fire that held back the army of Pharaoh, as Moses extended the rod of God and the Red Sea parted, the wind blew all night long; and in the morning Israel passed through the Red Sea to the other side. When Pharaoh’s army followed God allowed them all to enter into the passageway between the water, and when they were all in the passageway He closed the waters over them. The statement above is a declaration of how great God is in His ability to deliver from disaster.
Application
What a terrible place to be – in the midst of a disastrous situation, looking at overwhelming circumstances – I remember when I have been there. I am reminded of the words of Moses in this situation, “13And Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. 14The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” [Exodus 14: 13-14] The Apostle Paul says something similar in Ephesians 6, verse 13, “Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” When I find myself surrounded by circumstances that seem overwhelming and hopeless may I turn to You oh Lord and be guided to Your holy habitation!
Prayer
Father, thank-you for Your precious and magnificent promises, those realities by which we can become a partaker of Your divine nature. Help me in the most difficult of times to remember You offer a place of hope and rest. I want to thank-you for Your love and the promise of deliverance from the enemy and ultimately from the world. I ask You to help me not to be afraid and to stand still; that I too might sing of Your power to deliver.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
My Friend
My FriendKirk Wells
1-20-09
Scripture: Gen 50:15 But now that their father was dead, Joseph’s brother became fearful. “Now Joseph will show his anger and pay us back for all the wrong we did to him,” they said.
Observation: This scripture makes me think about how I used to think about the way God dealt with my past mistakes (nice way of saying sins). Once I accepted Jesus as my Savior, my life changed, life was good. Then the enemy came with torment, guilt, and regret. I just knew it was too good to be true. God was just waiting for the opportunity to take it all away, just when my life seemed to have meaning.
Application: I learned that God isn’t out to get revenge, that’s satan trying to convince me that I’m not going to be accepted by God for all the wrongs I’ve done in my life. I am worthy or He wouldn’t have created me!! God is just waiting for me, with an eagerness, to be my best friend. God wants all that junk gone, not so He can now punish me, but, so NOW I can be usable. NOW seeing truths, since the junk isn’t blocking my view. Now I can have faith in Gods future for me without the condemnation of my past. Like the ad says, “Good only at participating stores”(the stores being us of course).
Prayer: Father, help me to live out your purpose and enable me to hear only your voice. In Jesus’ Name
Amen
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Be HumbleScripture: Luke 14: 11 - “For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Observation: In a world filled with prideful opportunities; a world filled by individuals motivated by performance based acceptance, there is this soft whisper from scripture: “…he who humbles himself will be exalted.” The setting for the statement was Jesus in the house of one of the rulers of the Pharisees. To be exalted in this circle you must be willing to follow the dictates of the Pharisees, but Jesus was not interested in their approval. Jesus was interested in pleasing God and serving His purpose and will. To be invited to one of these dinners meant that you were “in”. They could not grasp the concept of inviting the poor, the maimed, the blind, and the lame.”
Application: If I am going to follow the leadership of Jesus I must be willing to reach those the world does not consider important. Serving the group that Jesus suggested can be a very humbling experience. You are not reaching the group the world or many in leadership consider important. One might ask, “Why should I humble myself and reach those the world does not see value in?” To do this might diminish my importance in the eyes of many, especially those of importance. Generally speaking, recognition does not come to those who serve the poor, the maimed, the blind, and the lame. However, if I am going to follow Christ I must humble myself in the eyes of the world and serve with gratitude those that Jesus would serve.
Prayer: Father, thank-you for the privilege of service. I want a heart that desires to reach those You love. Help me to keep my focus on Your desires in service, and let me serve with a humble heart for the glory of Your kingdom.
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