WHY, LORD?  IT’S JUST TOO HARD!

Posted on February 9, 2025 by randscallawayffm

As humans when faced with an expected, overwhelming roadblock on the journey of life; we most often respond first with what is happening and why is this happening.  We want life explained in full!  If we there isn’t an explanation; we invent one!  We humans are analyzers and fixers and we want our troubles fixed as soon as possible!  But when we become “stuck between a rock and hard place,” with seemingly no place to go without causing more trouble; we freeze.  We stop dead in our tracks when trials challenge our very existence.

We suddenly don’t know where to turn, left or right, back or forward. The options are slim. It’s like walking a tight rope at times. You must tediously move forward, trying to maintain your balance, because looking back with an effort to turn around will be worse and you will most likely fall to your death! 

It’s especially hard when you have been assigned to be the leader of the group.  You can be the most Godly, smart, wise, methodical, practical, loving, selfless, Spirit-led person among the group; but when those you are leading are gripped with fear of unknown outcomes of known challenges; fear drives a rebellion that immediately seeps in and trust is gone.

WHY? Why do we have to go through?  Why must we live like this?  Why doesn’t the Lord fix this?  Why, why, why?  Upon the report of those sent out to “scout” the land and hearing there would be battles to overtake the land of “milk and honey” promised by God to them; the Israelites rebelled.  Moses and Aaron succumb to the pressure of the thousands now turning against them—and God!  Ooh, let’s see what happens next…

Numbers 14

The People Rebel

14 That night all the members of the community raised their voices and wept aloud. 2 All the Israelites grumbled against Moses and Aaron, and the whole assembly said to them, “If only we had died in Egypt! Or in this wilderness! 3 Why is the Lord bringing us to this land only to let us fall by the sword? Our wives and children will be taken as plunder. Wouldn’t it be better for us to go back to Egypt?” 4 And they said to each other, “We should choose a leader and go back to Egypt.”

5 Then Moses and Aaron fell facedown in front of the whole Israelite assembly gathered there. 6 Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, who were among those who had explored the land, tore their clothes 7 and said to the entire Israelite assembly, “The land we passed through and explored is exceedingly good. 8 If the Lord is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us. 9 Only do not rebel against the Lord. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will devour them. Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them.”

10 But the whole assembly talked about stoning them. Then the glory of the Lord appeared at the tent of meeting to all the Israelites. 11 The Lord said to Moses, “How long will these people treat me with contempt? How long will they refuse to believe in me, in spite of all the signs I have performed among them? 12 I will strike them down with a plague and destroy them, but I will make you into a nation greater and stronger than they.”

13 Moses said to the Lord, “Then the Egyptians will hear about it! By your power you brought these people up from among them. 14 And they will tell the inhabitants of this land about it. They have already heard that you, Lord, are with these people and that you, Lord, have been seen face to face, that your cloud stays over them, and that you go before them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. 15 If you put all these people to death, leaving none alive, the nations who have heard this report about you will say, 16 ‘The Lord was not able to bring these people into the land he promised them on oath, so he slaughtered them in the wilderness.’

17 “Now may the Lord’s strength be displayed, just as you have declared: 18 ‘The Lord is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.’ 19 In accordance with your great love, forgive the sin of these people, just as you have pardoned them from the time they left Egypt until now.”

20 The Lord replied, “I have forgiven them, as you asked. 21 Nevertheless, as surely as I live and as surely as the glory of the Lord fills the whole earth, 22 not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— 23 not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors. No one who has treated me with contempt will ever see it. 24 But because my servant Caleb has a different spirit and follows me wholeheartedly, I will bring him into the land he went to, and his descendants will inherit it. 25 Since the Amalekites and the Canaanites are living in the valleys, turn back tomorrow and set out toward the desert along the route to the Red Sea.”

26 The Lord said to Moses and Aaron: 27 “How long will this wicked community grumble against me? I have heard the complaints of these grumbling Israelites. 28 So tell them, ‘As surely as I live, declares the Lord, I will do to you the very thing I heard you say: 29 In this wilderness your bodies will fall—every one of you twenty years old or more who was counted in the census and who has grumbled against me. 30 Not one of you will enter the land I swore with uplifted hand to make your home, except Caleb son of Jephunneh and Joshua son of Nun. 31 As for your children that you said would be taken as plunder, I will bring them in to enjoy the land you have rejected. 32 But as for you, your bodies will fall in this wilderness. 33 Your children will be shepherds here for forty years, suffering for your unfaithfulness, until the last of your bodies lies in the wilderness. 34 For forty years—one year for each of the forty days you explored the land—you will suffer for your sins and know what it is like to have me against you.’ 35 I, the Lord, have spoken, and I will surely do these things to this whole wicked community, which has banded together against me. They will meet their end in this wilderness; here they will die.”

36 So the men Moses had sent to explore the land, who returned and made the whole community grumble against him by spreading a bad report about it— 37 these men who were responsible for spreading the bad report about the land were struck down and died of a plague before the Lord. 38 Of the men who went to explore the land, only Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh survived.

39 When Moses reported this to all the Israelites, they mourned bitterly. 40 Early the next morning they set out for the highest point in the hill country, saying, “Now we are ready to go up to the land the Lord promised. Surely we have sinned!”

41 But Moses said, “Why are you disobeying the Lord’s command? This will not succeed! 42 Do not go up, because the Lord is not with you. You will be defeated by your enemies, 43 for the Amalekites and the Canaanites will face you there. Because you have turned away from the Lord, he will not be with you and you will fall by the sword.”

44 Nevertheless, in their presumption they went up toward the highest point in the hill country, though neither Moses nor the ark of the Lord’s covenant moved from the camp. 45 Then the Amalekites and the Canaanites who lived in that hill country came down and attacked them and beat them down all the way to Hormah.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

Rebellion against Moses and Aaron, their leaders was rebellion against God.  Rebellion against God comes in many forms but begins with grumbling and complaining with an entitled attitude.  People say things like; “God, you owe this to us.” “Why are having trouble?” “Did God promise this land only to lead us to death?” “If our leaders don’t do what we want, we’ll just get new leaders.” “We were better off in Egypt as slaves to our oppressors!” “I rather die in Egypt than in this wilderness—in fact, kill me now in this desert!”

YIKES, BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU PRAY FOR! 

All the complaints of God’s rebellious people became what God used to seal their fate. “All the Israelites grumbled…” Their whining and grumbling against God, wailing in fear and dismay, demanding their own way, while putting undue pressure on God’s leaders, Moses and Aaron, all weirdly became “prayers” that God indeed answered! 

“I will do to you the very thing I heard you say: In this wilderness your bodies will fall—every one of you twenty years old or more who was counted in the census and who has grumbled against me. Not one of you will enter the land I swore with uplifted hand to make your home… As for your children that you said would be taken as plunder, I will bring them in to enjoy the land you have rejected…”  The final blow… “For forty years—one year for each of the forty days you explored the land—you will suffer for your sins and know what it is like to have me against you.”   

Oh, be careful little eyes what you see, Oh be careful little ears what you hear,

Oh be careful little mouth what you say, For the Father up above is looking down in love…

So, be careful little eyes what you see, little ears what you hear, little tongues what you say, little hands what you do, little feet where you go, little hearts who you trust, and be careful little minds what you think…(the rest of verses in this Sunday School song.)

THE BRIGHT SPOTS IN THE REBELLION—CALEB AND JOSHUA!

Even though it was ten against two; Caleb and Joshua stood their ground.  They became the “rocks” in these hard discussions that moved the heart of God!  God knew their hearts. God knows all our hearts!  God is always on the lookout, searching for hearts who are fully committed to Him.  Both young men are being “groomed” by God as future leaders.  “Of the men who went to explore the land, only Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh survived.”  God will equip Joshua and Caleb to lead His people into the Promised Land!

PEOPLE MOURNED GOD’S JUDGEMENT; BUT STILL REBELLED!

When Moses told the people what God said, they “mourned over their sins.”  But they continued to rebel!  They decided to carry on business as usual and go into the land without God’s leading, protection or provision despite Moses’ warning!  What were they thinking, we ask?  Let’s ask ourselves.  We sometime do the same in our daily walk.  Ok, Lord, I shouldn’t have said or done that and I’m sorry—that I got caught.  And because you love me, surely you won’t discipline me is most often our presumption.  So, more likely, through lack of remorse, we do it again.  So, “don’t judge lest you be judged,” Jesus tells us.  (Matthew 7:1) 

“All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Paul preaches. (Romans 3:23) But please read what comes next: “and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished— 26 he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.” Romans 3:24-26 

The only Way to remove sin is confession to Jesus. We cannot merely decide to “be better” or “be good.”  Only God is good. Only Jesus can save us from our sins and our rebellious ways.  God gave us help!  It is God’s Holy Spirit who then comes to reside with power within our being, and helps us transform into all God created us to be then do for our good and His glory!  We cannot do this alone apart from God! We need His help.

When we humbly admit we need God; God gives us all we need.  When we fully and committedly believe that Jesus died for our sins and rose to give us the hope of eternal life a transformation of God in us occurs.  Our hearts are cleansed; our minds renewed with less presumptions and assumptions of our own small thinking; our spirits refreshed by His new mercies; and the joy of His salvation flourishes as we yield to Him daily as an offering of worship.  Only then we will bear the fruits of His Holy Spirit…see Galatians 5 for the list of new behaviors that will begin to happen on our journey.  We will also begin to see ourselves asking God what HE wants; more than demanding God to do what we want.

Our response trust and obey God.  Our obedience to God demonstrates our real love for God.  Real faith stops asking why.

Lord,

When I am perplexed, you are my Rock!  Thank you for reminding us of our own dangerous rebellion against You. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us and make life hard for us.  Lead us away from all temptations, especially thinking we are entitled or better than others.  Deliver us from evil, the real enemy of our hearts.  May Your will be done in all the details of today.

In Jesus Name, Amen

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PERSPECTIVE

Posted on February 8, 2025 by randscallawayffm

I was a science teacher for a time in the last season of my public teaching career.  God led me to this fascinating work then equipped my own feelings of inadequacies with gifts of encouragement and the joy of learning new things!  Hired by the Department of Defense, it allowed opportunities to teach in ways that suited my style of helping kids learn—more doing and less lecture!  The curriculum was designed carefully and specifically by other teachers for the sole purpose of taking the fear of learning science, technology, engineering, and math from fifth graders. 

Many kids (and teachers) think that this area of learning is beyond their abilities to learn and just could not see themselves doing the work of scientists and engineers.  So, our work was to change their minds so that more students would be drawn to STEM instead being driven away from it—all because of their own fears.  The reasons this program was created by the military leaders and supported by the Department of Defense was for their own workforce.  The military needed more people to fill the now and future vacancies in science, tech, engineering, and math so they readily supported STARBASE—a program meant to encourage students to pursue more education related to STEM so they could be contributors in our world!

This program was freely offered to all schools in the area.  We were located on an Air Guard base, located by the airport, that gave us a building of operation where students and their teachers.  Some teacher in the beginning were skeptical at first but after the first few minutes of seeing their students readily engage and observing the fun they were having in DOING STEM activities; they were sold!  Another benefit of the program was to see students tagged as trouble makers be so drawn in that they forgot to cause trouble, which amazed their teachers!

Our goals were met and exceeded as a team.  We replaced the fear with fun, innovative hands-on experiences that totally changed their perspective.  Using less lecture and more “now, you do it” activities; we introduced them to all they could do and accomplish now and later!  They soon discovered that what they first thought about world of STEM as being unreachable and unconquerable was now in their grasp!  Perspectives can be changed by trusting the Teacher who cares for them and wants the best for them.

Twelve men went to spy out Canaan,
(Ten were bad, two were good)
What do you think they saw in Canaan?
(Ten were bad, two were good)
Some saw giants, big and tall!
Some saw grapes in clusters fall,
Some saw God was in it all.
(Ten were bad, two were good).

If you are a “lifer,” one who grew up in church, you will remember this Sunday School song.  You also probably sang the song instead of reading it…And now this chorus is probably stuck in your head!  But it summarizes the story we are about to read. One man from each of the twelve tribes was sent out by Moses to check out their new home—the land God promised to them over the generations since Abraham—“a land flowing with milk and honey”!  They were sent and they went. They came back with two perspectives of thinking:  We can’t.  We can.  Read on…see what happens in the next couple of chapters on the journey!

Numbers 13

Exploring Canaan

13 The Lord said to Moses, 2 “Send some men to explore the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the Israelites. From each ancestral tribe send one of its leaders.”

3 So at the Lord’s command Moses sent them out from the Desert of Paran. All of them were leaders of the Israelites. 4 These are their names:

from the tribe of Reuben, Shammua son of Zakkur; 5 from the tribe of Simeon, Shaphat son of Hori; 6 from the tribe of Judah, Caleb son of Jephunneh;7 from the tribe of Issachar, Igal son of Joseph; 8 from the tribe of Ephraim, Hoshea son of Nun; 9 from the tribe of Benjamin, Palti son of Raphu; 10 from the tribe of Zebulun, Gaddiel son of Sodi; 11 from the tribe of Manasseh (a tribe of Joseph), Gaddi son of Susi; 12 from the tribe of Dan, Ammiel son of Gemalli; 13 from the tribe of Asher, Sethur son of Michael; 14 from the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi son of Vophsi; 15 from the tribe of Gad, Geuel son of Maki.

16 These are the names of the men Moses sent to explore the land. (Moses gave Hoshea son of Nun the name Joshua.)

17 When Moses sent them to explore Canaan, he said, “Go up through the Negev and on into the hill country. 18 See what the land is like and whether the people who live there are strong or weak, few or many. 19 What kind of land do they live in? Is it good or bad? What kind of towns do they live in? Are they unwalled or fortified? 20 How is the soil? Is it fertile or poor? Are there trees in it or not? Do your best to bring back some of the fruit of the land.” (It was the season for the first ripe grapes.)

21 So they went up and explored the land from the Desert of Zin as far as Rehob, toward Lebo Hamath. 22 They went up through the Negev and came to Hebron, where Ahiman, Sheshai and Talmai, the descendants of Anak, lived. (Hebron had been built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.) 23 When they reached the Valley of Eshkol, they cut off a branch bearing a single cluster of grapes. Two of them carried it on a pole between them, along with some pomegranates and figs. 24 That place was called the Valley of Eshkol because of the cluster of grapes the Israelites cut off there. 25 At the end of forty days they returned from exploring the land.

Report on the Exploration

26 They came back to Moses and Aaron and the whole Israelite community at Kadesh in the Desert of Paran. There they reported to them and to the whole assembly and showed them the fruit of the land. 27 They gave Moses this account: “We went into the land to which you sent us, and it does flow with milk and honey! Here is its fruit. 28 But the people who live there are powerful, and the cities are fortified and very large. We even saw descendants of Anak there. 29 The Amalekites live in the Negev; the Hittites, Jebusites and Amorites live in the hill country; and the Canaanites live near the sea and along the Jordan.”

30 Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, “We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.”

31 But the men who had gone up with him said, “We can’t attack those people; they are stronger than we are.” 32 And they spread among the Israelites a bad report about the land they had explored. They said, “The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size. 33 We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.”

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

Our human evaluation of any situation or circumstance is skewed until we seek the viewpoint and perspective of God.  If God is our Master Teacher; we trust our Teacher as the One who can do anything that is needed on earth to fulfill His plan and purpose.  If we trust only in our own abilities and what we have on hand at any given moment; our perspective is small and our purpose for living life weakened.  If we trust only what we see, we will “play it safe” avoiding the learning adventures God has planned for each one of us.  It’s all in our view of things—our perspective.  Twelve went out to check out the Promised Land.  Only two came back thrilled and ready to move in!  Trust has everything to do with our perspective.

Jesus came to change the view of the religious, the skeptics, and even the oppressive government leaders who forgot God and opposed Jesus as the Son of God.  Jesus came down from His throne in heaven and walked the earth, seeking to save the lost without God. Jesus was a “breath of fresh air” with new ways to think about real life to the oppressed, sick, crippled, blind, deaf, and lost.  Jesus changed the perspective of God in everyone He met. (See Matthew 5-7 for more!)

And we are so glad He did!  What a magnificent Plan of God to send His Son to help us see life in view of how God sees life and all He has created with purpose.  Jesus changed everything when He came and at the same time fulfilled the Law that God gave the Israelites centuries earlier.  Our God was, is and always will be—amazing, generous, and forever faithful in His love and care of us.  Believe in His Son, Jesus and we begin to understand more of His Higher thinking Perspective with Purpose, designed by God for us.  Jesus died to save us and lives to receive us into His Kingdom!  It’s freely offered and within our grasp!

Our response?  It’s all up to us!  If only we could see life from His point of view and trust what He says.  If only we could immediately obey when He speaks to us through His Word and Holy Spirit who lives in us.  If only we could drive out all our human fears with His relentless love.  If only we could truly think, say, and behave in ways that reflect who we say we really believe.  Pause to pray.  Be still and know God more.  Let go of what we want and take hold of all God wants to give to us and do through us.  Live with expectant hope now for Jesus is coming back soon—He promised!  God delivers on His promises.

Lord,

Wow, the memories that you place in our hearts that connect the dots of our learning, growing, and transforming in ways that change our perspective of thinking even today are always amazing! Thank you for daily reminders of how rescue me, cleanse and renew my mind. Thank you for allowing me to understand from your viewpoint with a longing to know more! You are God. I trust you, dear Jesus.  I give you my life because you are Life to me!  Thank you for your gifts of joy and peace when I change my mind!

In Jesus Name, Amen   

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GOD GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLED

Posted on February 7, 2025 by randscallawayffm

“The Lord mocks the mockers but is gracious to the humble.”  Proverbs 3:34(The wisdom book of Proverbs is full of warnings against pride and arrogance.)

“Likewise, you younger people, submit yourselves 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…” 1 Peter 5:5-6

“What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.

You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. Or do you think Scripture says without reason that he jealously longs for the spirit he has caused to dwell in us? But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says:

“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” James 4:1-10

The root cause of every war, internal and external, is rebellion against God. The sin of pride, thinking we know what is best, begins the rebellion. Pride spreads throughout our being like cancer.  Pride breeds more sins such as jealousy, greed, and arrogance—all unholy behaviors and not of God.  Our relationship with God and others is hindered.  God seems to be at a distance from us.  Why? God and sin do not occupy the same space.  We must confess our sins with a humbled, sincere heart. 

When we confess; God will draw near, cleanse us, and forgive us; and the wars will cease! We will not be at war with God, so we will not be at war with ourselves. This means we will not be at war with others.                   

Numbers 12

Miriam and Aaron Oppose Moses

Miriam and Aaron began to talk against Moses because of his Cushite wife, for he had married a Cushite. 2 “Has the Lord spoken only through Moses?” they asked. “Hasn’t he also spoken through us?” And the Lord heard this.

3 (Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.)

4 At once the Lord said to Moses, Aaron and Miriam, “Come out to the tent of meeting, all three of you.” So the three of them went out. 5 Then the Lord came down in a pillar of cloud; he stood at the entrance to the tent and summoned Aaron and Miriam. When the two of them stepped forward, 6 he said, “Listen to my words:

“When there is a prophet among you,
    I, the Lord, reveal myself to them in visions,
    I speak to them in dreams.
7 But this is not true of my servant Moses;
    he is faithful in all my house.
8 With him I speak face to face,
    clearly and not in riddles;
    he sees the form of the Lord.
Why then were you not afraid
    to speak against my servant Moses?”

9 The anger of the Lord burned against them, and he left them.

10 When the cloud lifted from above the tent, Miriam’s skin was leprous—it became as white as snow. Aaron turned toward her and saw that she had a defiling skin disease, 11 and he said to Moses, “Please, my lord, I ask you not to hold against us the sin we have so foolishly committed. 12 Do not let her be like a stillborn infant coming from its mother’s womb with its flesh half eaten away.”

13 So Moses cried out to the Lord, “Please, God, heal her!”

14 The Lord replied to Moses, “If her father had spit in her face, would she not have been in disgrace for seven days? Confine her outside the camp for seven days; after that she can be brought back.” 15 So Miriam was confined outside the camp for seven days, and the people did not move on till she was brought back.

16 After that, the people left Hazeroth and encamped in the Desert of Paran.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

Moses was the most humble man on the planet!  By his response to the attack on his leadership by his brother Aaron and his sister, Mirium we learn to respond in ways God would be pleased!

  1. Moses was the victim of needless gossip within his own family.  “You hurt the ones you love most” is true. When gossip and sarcastic criticism by family members that you trust “throw shade on you,” (as they say these days), in betrayal; it is excruciatingly painful. We don’t expect it, so we are shocked.  Being a humble man, Moses sought the Lord often.  The Lord heard the gossip and was angered.  Moses didn’t respond to his accusers; but allowed God to take care of it.
  2. Jealousy caused Aaron and Miriam to speak out against Moses. God told them, however, that he spoke directly and openly with Moses. As a result, Aaron and Miriam received God’s judgment.  A lack of contentment often leads to the problem of jealousy.  Even though their words were against Moses, their words were in rebellion to God.  Moses response?  Moses stood with them and became their advocate before God.
  3. Moses forgave his brother and sister and did not hold their sin against them.

WHO did for us what Moses did for his siblings? Jesus, of course! Moses’ example of humility and forgiveness became the precursor for what Jesus will do centuries later for all of us.  The most powerful words delivered by Jesus who humbly hung on a cross publicly to pay for our sins were; “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they are do.” Luke 23:34  Because of Jesus, we are forgiven and made whole.

Pause to pray, reflect, evaluate, and respond humbly to God.  Are you jealous of someone’s name, position, authority, or possessions? Are you envious of others’ families? Do you gossip to make yourself feel better about yourself?  Are you being betrayed by gossip?  Whatever the circumstance or wherever you are in your faith journey; Ask God to show you how you can be content with the things that really matter—Jesus’ love and forgiveness as Savior and Lord.  Ask God to end the war within you. (See Romans 10—Moses is mentioned by Paul!)  And I will do the same.

“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” Paul, Romans 10-9-10

Lord,

Cleanse our hearts completely.  Remove all that does not belong there.  Renew our minds, change our thinking from satisfying self to seeking Your holy ways. Refresh our souls with your new, tender mercies for today.  As we humbly seek you with listening ears and opened eyes; restore the joy of you in us and us in you.  I’m yours.  You are indeed everything we need! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

In Jesus Name, Amen

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GRUMBLING AND COMPLAINING

Posted on February 6, 2025 by randscallawayffm

“Wasn’t that the best burger in the world that we had back at the Egyptian Burger Palace?!” “AND, we have never had fish that tasted so good since leaving that part of the country!”  “The home we lived in twenty years ago was by far the best place to live—better than this tent!” “Why can’t we have what we had?” “We are not a maximum comfort.” “This desert is too hot and dusty.” “I didn’t sign up for this trip!” “And, just how many times can we eat this manna from heaven that takes no effort on our part to collect each day?!”  “Waah…”  “I want to go back to where the fish was free—slavery, torture, and bondage wasn’t so bad…”

Wait, what now?  What did you just say to Me?  God is not pleased with grumbling and complaining. In fact, complaining on the journey will delay the trip and cause irreparable damages in some instances to the Chosen. God who is longsuffering in his compassion for His people, sends a warning fire outside the camp, but will then provide some meat for the journey to go with their manna. Our God is relentlessly faithful—even when we are not.

Grumbling to and about the God who created us, wants the best for us, provides all we need and more and who protects and rescues us from our enemies is dishonored with every word of complaint, worry, overthinking, grumbling, and distain from us over temporary circumstances.  We either trust God or we don’t.  What we truly believe about God is reflected in what we think, say, and do in challenging circumsstances. There’s no way around it—we just can’t hide it—God knows our hearts!

Numbers 11

Fire From the Lord

Now the people complained about their hardships in the hearing of the Lord, and when he heard them, his anger was aroused. Then fire from the Lord burned among them and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp. 2 When the people cried out to Moses, he prayed to the Lord and the fire died down. 3 So that place was called Taberah, because fire from the Lord had burned among them.

Quail From the Lord

4 The rabble with them began to crave other food, and again the Israelites started wailing and said, “If only we had meat to eat! 5 We remember the fish we ate in Egypt at no cost—also the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions and garlic. 6 But now we have lost our appetite; we never see anything but this manna!”

7 The manna was like coriander seed and looked like resin. 8 The people went around gathering it, and then ground it in a hand mill or crushed it in a mortar. They cooked it in a pot or made it into loaves. And it tasted like something made with olive oil. 9 When the dew settled on the camp at night, the manna also came down.

10 Moses heard the people of every family wailing at the entrance to their tents. The Lord became exceedingly angry, and Moses was troubled. 11 He asked the Lord, “Why have you brought this trouble on your servant? What have I done to displease you that you put the burden of all these people on me? 12 Did I conceive all these people? Did I give them birth? Why do you tell me to carry them in my arms, as a nurse carries an infant, to the land you promised on oath to their ancestors? 13 Where can I get meat for all these people? They keep wailing to me, ‘Give us meat to eat!’ 14 I cannot carry all these people by myself; the burden is too heavy for me. 15 If this is how you are going to treat me, please go ahead and kill me—if I have found favor in your eyes—and do not let me face my own ruin.”

16 The Lord said to Moses: “Bring me seventy of Israel’s elders who are known to you as leaders and officials among the people. Have them come to the tent of meeting, that they may stand there with you. 17 I will come down and speak with you there, and I will take some of the power of the Spirit that is on you and put it on them. They will share the burden of the people with you so that you will not have to carry it alone.

18 “Tell the people: ‘Consecrate yourselves in preparation for tomorrow, when you will eat meat. The Lord heard you when you wailed, “If only we had meat to eat! We were better off in Egypt!” Now the Lord will give you meat, and you will eat it. 19 You will not eat it for just one day, or two days, or five, ten or twenty days, 20 but for a whole month—until it comes out of your nostrils and you loathe it—because you have rejected the Lord, who is among you, and have wailed before him, saying, “Why did we ever leave Egypt?”’”

21 But Moses said, “Here I am among six hundred thousand men on foot, and you say, ‘I will give them meat to eat for a whole month!’ 22 Would they have enough if flocks and herds were slaughtered for them? Would they have enough if all the fish in the sea were caught for them?”

23 The Lord answered Moses, “Is the Lord’s arm too short?Now you will see whether or not what I say will come true for you.”

24 So Moses went out and told the people what the Lord had said. He brought together seventy of their elders and had them stand around the tent. 25 Then the Lord came down in the cloud and spoke with him, and he took some of the power of the Spirit that was on him and put it on the seventy elders. When the Spirit rested on them, they prophesied—but did not do so again.

26 However, two men, whose names were Eldad and Medad, had remained in the camp. They were listed among the elders, but did not go out to the tent. Yet the Spirit also rested on them, and they prophesied in the camp. 27 A young man ran and told Moses, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.”

28 Joshua son of Nun, who had been Moses’ aide since youth, spoke up and said, “Moses, my lord, stop them!”

29 But Moses replied, “Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!” 30 Then Moses and the elders of Israel returned to the camp.

31 Now a wind went out from the Lord and drove quail in from the sea. It scattered them up to two cubits deep all around the camp, as far as a day’s walk in any direction. 32 All that day and night and all the next day the people went out and gathered quail. No one gathered less than ten homers. Then they spread them out all around the camp. 33 But while the meat was still between their teeth and before it could be consumed, the anger of the Lord burned against the people, and he struck them with a severe plague. 34 Therefore the place was named Kibroth Hattaavah, because there they buried the people who had craved other food.

35 From Kibroth Hattaavah the people traveled to Hazeroth and stayed there.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

Moses was the first to hear the whiny wailings of God’s People. “Can’t you do something, Moses?”  “Where’s the beef?” “We want meat!”  “Go tell God what we want!”

Moses response?  “Just kill me now, God!”

The Middle Man Moses heard it all.  Having been a pastor’s wife and a leader in ministry myself, I easily and readily feel the pain of Moses who is grieved over the grumblings of the people in his care.  Moses is frustrated, so painfully frustrated in fact, that he does indeed go to God, like the people said to do; but Moses has very different questions for God. God had holy, profound answers that helped Moses beyond his humanness.  “Gather 70 elders who will stand with you.”  “I will speak and pour out the power of my spirit over them.”   Wow!  Let that sink in…

“I sought the Lord and He heard and He answered,
I sought the Lord and He heard and He answered,
I sought the Lord and He heard and He answered,
That’s why I trust Him, that’s why I trust Him…”

Can you hear “Trust in God” by Elevation Worship playing in the background of this story of God in our lives?

I ponder this often.  Many of us in the God’s church jump to conclusions and ask the wrong questions of leaders and of God.  We approach problems with human first attempts of blame, explain, and reframe.  We want to first place blame it on someone—even God, Himself!  We want circumstances, pain, troubles and even death explained so we surmise, assume, and presume answers with our limited human brains.  When all else fails; we reframe the situation so that it fits into our own understanding of what life should be in our estimation and evaluation.  Yikes.  And then we grumble when these tactics don’t satisfy our need to know.  Ugh.  Humbled again.

How about humbly asking God what HE wants?  (Pause, reflect, repent, ask, be still and listen.)  How about asking God what He wants us to learn, know, and apply to our lives as we trust and obey Him?  How about trusting God no matter what is happening around us?  Moses is the leader of hundreds of thousands of people who goes immediately to God for answers.  God heard and He answered—in power!  That’s how God works on our behalf!

Do not read into what I am about to say with political fervor.  It is not my intent to make a political statement but to express a mournful, spiritual concern over our behaviors as believers that grieved my heart in this decade.  Our worldwide Covid Calamity tested our faith, resolve, trust, and most of all, our witness to a world in need of a Savior.  I was disappointed and heartbroken observing and hearing distasteful, unbiblical comments from believers of Jesus—attenders, part of the Body of Christ, called church.  Instead of showing compassion for all people, obeying those in authority; we grumbled and whined over the situation of restrictions placed upon us for our own protection!  We took sides and fought with each other rudely over how to minister to people in ways to keep covid from spreading in efforts to keep people safe.  As church leaders, we heard it all, along with “if you just had enough faith…you would let us do what we want to do.”  And like Moses, we might have mumbled, “just kill me, now, Lord.”

Through it all, many of us missed great opportunities to show the love of God through Jesus’ example to a dying world—both physically and spiritually.  But many of us, instead, proved to the world that church is not for them.  Where is the love?  People are still seeking.

The people who complain the most about God and their spiritual leaders end up coming to those leaders for help! How gracious Moses was to intercede on their behalf, and how like our Lord Jesus Christ, when from the cross He prayed; “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23:34). More than once when Israel sinned, it was the intercession of Moses that stayed God’s hand of judgment. On one occasion, Moses even offered to die so that Israel might be spared (Exodus 32:30–35).  Isn’t this what Jesus did for us?  Die in our place?  (The answer is yes.)

How tragic it is when professed believers in churches crave substitutes from the world instead of desiring the heavenly manna of the Word of God (Matthew 4:4; John 6:66–69). It isn’t always enemies outside the local church who do the damage but counterfeiters who get inside the church fellowship (Acts 20:28–30; 3 John 9–11). These intruders might march with the church crowd and act like they are God’s people, but they don’t have an appetite for spiritual things, and eventually their true allegiance is revealed (1 John 2:18, 19).  “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” in living our lives.  So, be careful in judging and especially in critcizing.  Jesus taught, “we must take the log from our own eye before taking the splinter from another’s eye” in criticism and sarcastic judgement.  This deed blocks our view of God.

So, we learn that it is a serious mistake to complain against the Lord, attack His servants, and ask for “religious substitutes” that satisfy our fleshly desires. These murmurers in Israel were eventually judged by God and used by Paul as a warning to the churches today (1 Corinthians 10:10). “Do all things without complaining and disputing” (Philippians 2:14). An unthankful heart makes it easier for people to commit all kinds of sins (Romans 1:21).  Gratitude deflects our grumpy attitude.

Few experiences discourage God’s servants more than people criticizing them unjustly and complaining about the blessings the Lord has given. I’ve heard it said by an elder; “Want a better pastor? Pray for him/her.”

“The Lord had warned Israel that the way they treated the daily manna would be a test of their obedience to His Word. In rejecting the manna, Israel really rejected the Lord, and it was this rebellious attitude that invited the judgment of God. This reminds us that the way we treat God’s Word is the way we treat the Lord Himself. To ignore the Word, treat it carelessly, or willfully disobey it is to ask for the discipline of God (Hebrews 12:5–11). Instead of feeding on the things of the world that bring death, let’s cultivate an appetite for the holy Word of God (Job 23:12; Psalm 1:1; Jeremiah 15:16; Matthew 4:4; Luke 10:38–42; 1 Peter 2:1–3).”—Warren Wiersbe, Wiersbe Study Bible

Lord, God of Heaven and Earth,

Help us.  Lead us.  Bless us and keep us; may your face shine on us and be gracious to us; and may the Lord turn your face toward us and give us peace.  Thank you, Lord.

In Jesus Name, for our good and Your Glory, Amen

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THE TRUMPETS CALL!

Posted on February 5, 2025 by randscallawayffm

These are the days of Elijah
Declaring the word of the Lord
And these are the days of Your servant Moses
Righteousness being restored

… And though these days of great trials
Of famine and darkness and sword
Still we are the voice in the desert crying
Prepare ye the way of the Lord!

… Behold He comes, riding on the clouds,
Shining like the sun at the trumpet’s call
So, lift your voice, it’s the year of Jubilee, And out of Zion’s hill, salvation comes,

There are two songs playing in the background of my mind this morning as we read God’s Way to signal His people to get up, tear down camp, and move forward at His command—in an orderly fashion!  “The Days of Elijah” is the first song that comes to mind.  Trumpets have often been the calling card of God through the ages.  The Lord directs Moses to make two trumpets for use in calling the thousands encamped to attention.  Trumpets blasts are signals for the people to move out on God’s command!  Trumpets are also used to lead them in battles against their enemies. We see trumpets used as signals through the Word of God!  I’ll share the second song later…right now let’s get into the Word of what the Lord said to Moses.

Numbers 10

The Silver Trumpets

The Lord said to Moses: 2 “Make two trumpets of hammered silver, and use them for calling the community together and for having the camps set out. 3 When both are sounded, the whole community is to assemble before you at the entrance to the tent of meeting. 4 If only one is sounded, the leaders—the heads of the clans of Israel—are to assemble before you. 5 When a trumpet blast is sounded, the tribes camping on the east are to set out. 6 At the sounding of a second blast, the camps on the south are to set out. The blast will be the signal for setting out. 7 To gather the assembly, blow the trumpets, but not with the signal for setting out.

8 “The sons of Aaron, the priests, are to blow the trumpets. This is to be a lasting ordinance for you and the generations to come. 9 When you go into battle in your own land against an enemy who is oppressing you, sound a blast on the trumpets. Then you will be remembered by the Lord your God and rescued from your enemies. 10 Also at your times of rejoicing—your appointed festivals and New Moon feasts—you are to sound the trumpets over your burnt offerings and fellowship offerings, and they will be a memorial for you before your God. I am the Lord your God.”

The Israelites Leave Sinai

11 On the twentieth day of the second month of the second year, the cloud lifted from above the tabernacle of the covenant law. 12 Then the Israelites set out from the Desert of Sinai and traveled from place to place until the cloud came to rest in the Desert of Paran. 13 They set out, this first time, at the Lord’s command through Moses.

14 The divisions of the camp of Judah went first, under their standard. Nahshon son of Amminadab was in command. 15 Nethanel son of Zuar was over the division of the tribe of Issachar, 16 and Eliab son of Helon was over the division of the tribe of Zebulun. 17 Then the tabernacle was taken down, and the Gershonites and Merarites, who carried it, set out.

18 The divisions of the camp of Reuben went next, under their standard. Elizur son of Shedeur was in command. 19 Shelumiel son of Zurishaddai was over the division of the tribe of Simeon, 20 and Eliasaph son of Deuel was over the division of the tribe of Gad. 21 Then the Kohathites set out, carrying the holy things. The tabernacle was to be set up before they arrived.

22 The divisions of the camp of Ephraim went next, under their standard. Elishama son of Ammihud was in command. 23 Gamaliel son of Pedahzur was over the division of the tribe of Manasseh, 24 and Abidan son of Gideoni was over the division of the tribe of Benjamin.

25 Finally, as the rear guard for all the units, the divisions of the camp of Dan set out under their standard. Ahiezer son of Ammishaddai was in command. 26 Pagiel son of Okran was over the division of the tribe of Asher, 27 and Ahira son of Enan was over the division of the tribe of Naphtali. 28 This was the order of march for the Israelite divisions as they set out.

29 Now Moses said to Hobab son of Reuel the Midianite, Moses’ father-in-law, “We are setting out for the place about which the Lord said, ‘I will give it to you.’ Come with us and we will treat you well, for the Lord has promised good things to Israel.”

30 He answered, “No, I will not go; I am going back to my own land and my own people.”

31 But Moses said, “Please do not leave us. You know where we should camp in the wilderness, and you can be our eyes. 32 If you come with us, we will share with you whatever good things the Lord gives us.”

33 So they set out from the mountain of the Lord and traveled for three days. The ark of the covenant of the Lord went before them during those three days to find them a place to rest. 34 The cloud of the Lord was over them by day when they set out from the camp.

35 Whenever the ark set out, Moses said,

“Rise up, Lord!
    May your enemies be scattered;
    may your foes flee before you.”

36 Whenever it came to rest, he said,

“Return, Lord,
    to the countless thousands of Israel.”

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

I listen to the trumpet of Jesus
While the world hears a different sound
I march to the drumbeat of God Almighty
While the others just wander around
I’m a member of the Holy Ghost traveling band
We’re moving on up to a better land
I hear the voice of the Supernatural singing
Like only those who know Him can

I love this chorus!  The second song coming to mind is “The Trumpet of Jesus!” which was sung many years ago by the Imperials.  This song impacted my life as a young adult growing in my faith and is a reminder of all the times Jesus continued to give His gift of peace and wisdom through all the storms of my life.  And He’s doing it again! Jesus teaches trust for all of Life.  Jesus was, is, and always will be the Trumpet Call to bring us to a right relationship with God, our Father, we must trust completely!

When we listen for the “trumpet’s call” to repent in Jesus Name, love God back with all our hearts, minds, and souls, and then follow God’s guidance that His Holy Spirit living within us provides; we please him. Although God’s plan may not always be clear to us, we must follow.  Even when it seems we are being led in circles in the desert of our wilderness thinking—trust God!  Here’s the second verse—

One sweet sound makes
A whole world of difference
When the world seems indifferent to you
His melody of love calls you to be great
When marking time was all you thought you could do
So if you’ve been playing all your days by ear
Never knowing what your song was to be
Then pull up a chair, let down your hair
And take a few lessons from me…

I listen to the trumpet of Jesus
While the world hears a different sound
I march to the drumbeat of God Almighty
While the others just wander around
I’m a member of the Holy Ghost traveling band
We’re moving on up to a better land
I hear the voice of the Supernatural singing
Like only those who know Him can

In our troubles, loss of control we think we have, and in those unexpected twists and turns of life that make us fearful, we can shout, “ugh, this so unfair”!  We can shake our fists in the air in defeat or stamp our feet like a toddler who isn’t getting his way. OR we can make the decision that is not like the rest of an indifferent world and declare: 

“Yet will I trust Him, I know God knows what is best.”

(See the story of God through Job—God gave Job space in His Word to show us how to trust God through tremendous trials! See the Book of Job.)

Pause to reflect: 

  • How easily do I change direction?
  • Am I willing to adapt to God’s will?
  • Do I ask God to clarify His Plan and Purpose clear to me as I move toward His will for the future?
  • Am I listening for the Trumpet of Jesus each day with each step I take or am I listening to just a lot of noises and voices of the world around me?

A spiritual fanfare has a sound all its own
At the birth of a lasting song
It’s been two thousand years since Jesus was born
And still the celebration goes on
If you feel the need to get your life in tune
‘Cause you’re tired of the dirge every day
Then turn yourself around
Put your feet on the ground
And just hear what I have to say

I listen to the trumpet of Jesus
While the world hears a different sound
I march to the drumbeat of God Almighty
While the others just wander around
I’m a member of the Holy Ghost traveling band
We’re moving on up to a better land
I hear the voice of the Supernatural singing
Like only those who know Him can

Listen to the trumpet of Jesus…!

Max Lucado writes;

“Approximately two years had passed since the departure of the Israelites from Egypt. During this time at Mount Sinai, God gave them the tent of meeting, ceremonial and ritual laws, and travel instructions. Then they traveled from Mount Sinai into the wilderness of Paran enroute to the promised land. When they faced many hardships, they forgot about God’s provision and protection and began to curse and complain. God punished them for their lack of faith.

We show the same lack of faith when we think we can do as much (or more) than Almighty God. Such a lack of faith shows that we really don’t know how to trust God.

If you look long enough and hard enough, you’ll find something to bellyache about. So quit looking! Lift your eyes off the weeds. Major in the grace of God.  Gratitude is a wonderful option!

Collect your blessings. Catalog his kindnesses. Assemble your reasons for gratitude and recite them. “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1Thessalonians 5:16–18).”—Max Lucado’s Encouraging Word Study Bible

Lord,

Thank you for all you have done, are doing, and will do in my life with You.  You are Life! Lead me, Lord.

In Jesus Name, Amen

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REMEMBERING THE RESCUE; OBEYING THE RESCUER

Posted on February 4, 2025 by randscallawayffm

I used to play softball as a middle to high school student.  I loved the sport.  I wanted to be good at this sport I loved.  I listened to the coach’s direction to be better.  I practiced hitting, catching, and pitching.  I was shorter than most, but fast enough to get to the bases to stay in the game.  But I was also easily distracted by others playing the game and by those shouting commands from the bleachers.  “Keep your eye on the ball” was the phrase most used in this sport.  But, it is so easy to take our eyes off the ball and our focus from the coach, when other voices become louder and distract us from the game.  When this would happen, the coach would say, “remember what I taught you.”

God rescued his people from the slavery and bondage of the Egyptians.  He coached them with specific, detailed directives to perform the night before departure.  God told them exactly what to do, what to eat, and how to prepare so that when the angel of death swept through Egypt, His people would be spared.  The Israelites were directed to spread the blood of a lamb over the doorposts of their homes.  This lamb was then prepared as their last meal in Egypt.  In this way the angle of death would “pass over” their homes.  The blood was their identity.  The blood indicated to Whom they belonged.  The Blood rescued them from death.  God’s Rescued were to remember this moment and celebrate it “at the appointed time” given to them by God.  “Remember…”, says God, and celebrate the Rescue as I have taught you.

TAKE NOTE:  A problem arises within the camp that needs clarity in celebrating the Passover. They go to Moses who tells them, “Wait and see what God says.”  This is the most profound act of wisdom that Moses, their leader provides.  Moses knows that this issue is above his “pay grade” (as most issues are) and goes to the Lord for resolution. 

Numbers 9

The Passover

The Lord spoke to Moses in the Desert of Sinai in the first month of the second year after they came out of Egypt. He said, 2 “Have the Israelites celebrate the Passover at the appointed time. 3 Celebrate it at the appointed time, at twilight on the fourteenth day of this month, in accordance with all its rules and regulations.”

4 So Moses told the Israelites to celebrate the Passover, 5 and they did so in the Desert of Sinai at twilight on the fourteenth day of the first month. The Israelites did everything just as the Lord commanded Moses.

6 But some of them could not celebrate the Passover on that day because they were ceremonially unclean on account of a dead body. So they came to Moses and Aaron that same day 7 and said to Moses, “We have become unclean because of a dead body, but why should we be kept from presenting the Lord’s offering with the other Israelites at the appointed time?”

8 Moses answered them, “Wait until I find out what the Lord commands concerning you.”

9 Then the Lord said to Moses, 10 “Tell the Israelites: ‘When any of you or your descendants are unclean because of a dead body or are away on a journey, they are still to celebrate the Lord’s Passover, 11 but they are to do it on the fourteenth day of the second month at twilight. They are to eat the lamb, together with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. 12 They must not leave any of it till morning or break any of its bones. When they celebrate the Passover, they must follow all the regulations. 13 But if anyone who is ceremonially clean and not on a journey fails to celebrate the Passover, they must be cut off from their people for not presenting the Lord’s offering at the appointed time. They will bear the consequences of their sin.

14 “‘A foreigner residing among you is also to celebrate the Lord’s Passover in accordance with its rules and regulations. You must have the same regulations for both the foreigner and the native-born.’”

The Cloud Above the Tabernacle

15 On the day the tabernacle, the tent of the covenant law, was set up, the cloud covered it. From evening till morning the cloud above the tabernacle looked like fire. 16 That is how it continued to be; the cloud covered it, and at night it looked like fire. 17 Whenever the cloud lifted from above the tent, the Israelites set out; wherever the cloud settled, the Israelites encamped. 18 At the Lord’s command the Israelites set out, and at his command they encamped. As long as the cloud stayed over the tabernacle, they remained in camp. 19 When the cloud remained over the tabernacle a long time, the Israelites obeyed the Lord’s order and did not set out. 20 Sometimes the cloud was over the tabernacle only a few days; at the Lord’s command they would encamp, and then at his command they would set out. 21 Sometimes the cloud stayed only from evening till morning, and when it lifted in the morning, they set out. Whether by day or by night, whenever the cloud lifted, they set out. 22 Whether the cloud stayed over the tabernacle for two days or a month or a year, the Israelites would remain in camp and not set out; but when it lifted, they would set out. 23 At the Lord’s command they encamped, and at the Lord’s command they set out. They obeyed the Lord’s order, in accordance with his command through Moses.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

God guided the Israelites in the wilderness with a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. The cloud and fire moved according to God’s will. When they moved, the people moved; where they stopped, the people stopped.  When we follow God’s guidance, we please him. We identify with Him who leads us.  Our trust in an unfailing God builds within us to bolster our resolve to follow Him.  Although God’s plan may not always be clear to us, we must follow in response to our Coach’s direction who knows our present circumstances that we can only see from a limited view. Remember that our Coach also sees all future outcomes that we cannot see from our vantage point.

God rescued us from our sins that held us as hostages to the evil one intent on destroying us.  God so loved us He personally sent His One and Only Son, Jesus, to be the Sacrifice to not only cover over our sins but to pay our debt of sin in full.  Jesus is the reason we can now have a personal relationship with Almighty God!  Our identity is Jesus.  We are God’s children, joint heirs with Christ who reconciled (reconnected) us to God. 

Jesus, Lamb of God, who was God in flesh come down to earth and moved into the neighborhood of humanity to personally be with us, teach us, and redeem us once and for all.  Pause, take time to remember who God is, what Jesus did to save us, with all Jesus taught us as he fulfilled the Law and explained the full intention of God for the Law. 

Because of Jesus, believing followers can now live our lives with daily expectant hope for life eternal with Him because He has promised a prepared a place for us!  How do we respond? Each day we wake up, thank God for life and opportunities to tell His story.  Daily offer ourselves to God as worship to God.  (Romans 12:1-2) Love God back with all that is in us.  Talk to God throughout the day.  Listen for God voice.  Be attentive to how God works in the smallest details and overcomes the obstacles that discourage us.  Observe His glory at work and immediately give Him praise.  Love others like God loves us—without manipulating conditions.  And finally, celebrate the love of God who lives in us and never leaves us.  Lean into His wisdom, insight, and understanding as our guide in all the details of this life.  Follow the Coach as He disciplines us in the practice of His ways.

BE READY TO MOVE ON GOD’S COMMAND

When other voices shout directions from the bleachers; listen instead for the voice of God’s Holy Spirit who resides in all of us, ready to lead us to all that is true, right, and holy.  Be still, let go of what we think and hang onto, to know God more.  Know that God has our best interest at heart.  Know that God never fails, never gives up, and never leaves us in the dust.  Know that God steps in, dusts us off, and puts our feet on solid ground.  Know God’s forgiveness.  Our part is to be ready, teachable and flexible to the will of His Holy Spirit.  Move or stay—all at His command.

One of my favorite portions of scripture that helps me remember my Rescuer and celebrate my Coach is found in Psalm 143:8-12.  May this be our prayer today:

“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,
    for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go,
    for to you I entrust my life.
Rescue me from my enemies, Lord,
    for I hide myself in you.
Teach me to do your will,
    for you are my God;
may your good Spirit
    lead me on level ground.

For your name’s sake, Lord, preserve my life;
    in your righteousness, bring me out of trouble.
In your unfailing love, silence my enemies;
    destroy all my foes,
    for I am your servant.”

In Jesus Name, for our good and Your Glory, Amen!

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YOU ARE MINE             

Posted on February 3, 2025 by randscallawayffm

“Be my Valentine,” “I’m Yours”, “Love you”, “Love me back”!  All these short phrases are stamped on candied hearts.  As kids, we would buy the small boxes with the cellophane window by the dozens to hand out to those in our class at school. To be known as belonging to someone, even in friendship, is a gift among humans.  Psychologists will tell you that beyond the four basic, physical needs of air, water, food, and shelter to survive, is the need to belong.  We don’t really want to be alone.  We want to belong to someone.  When that Someone is God; we are never alone.  We are His and He is ours when we love Him back with all our hearts, minds, and souls.  Jesus made that connection possible. Pause to give Him praise and thanksgiving!

Moses consecrated and anointed the completed place of worship. The people brought gifts and offerings for the tent of meeting.  Now, the emphasis is on the Levites clan that God has chosen to be set apart as His.  “The Levites are mine,” says the Lord.  The Levites are appointed, anointed, dedicated, consecrated, and assigned to all tasks involving the Tent of Meeting.  God has given them the details of how to perform every task along with the assignment of “doing the Lord’s work”.  The Levites are “gifts” to Aaron and his sons to help them do the work of sacrifice that atones the sins of all Israelites—a sojourning group of thousands.  The Levites will as lead the people in worship to their God—our God.  To truly know God, we must worship Him for who He really is, our great, powerful, and awesome God.

Numbers 8

Setting Up the Lamps

The Lord said to Moses, 2 “Speak to Aaron and say to him, ‘When you set up the lamps, see that all seven light up the area in front of the lampstand.’”

3 Aaron did so; he set up the lamps so that they faced forward on the lampstand, just as the Lord commanded Moses. 4 This is how the lampstand was made: It was made of hammered gold—from its base to its blossoms. The lampstand was made exactly like the pattern the Lord had shown Moses.

The Setting Apart of the Levites

5 The Lord said to Moses: 6 “Take the Levites from among all the Israelites and make them ceremonially clean. 7 To purify them, do this: Sprinkle the water of cleansing on them; then have them shave their whole bodies and wash their clothes. And so they will purify themselves. 8 Have them take a young bull with its grain offering of the finest flour mixed with olive oil; then you are to take a second young bull for a sin offering. 9 Bring the Levites to the front of the tent of meeting and assemble the whole Israelite community. 10 You are to bring the Levites before the Lord, and the Israelites are to lay their hands on them. 11 Aaron is to present the Levites before the Lord as a wave offering from the Israelites, so that they may be ready to do the work of the Lord.

12 “Then the Levites are to lay their hands on the heads of the bulls, using one for a sin offering to the Lord and the other for a burnt offering, to make atonement for the Levites. 13 Have the Levites stand in front of Aaron and his sons and then present them as a wave offering to the Lord. 14 In this way you are to set the Levites apart from the other Israelites, and the Levites will be mine.

15 “After you have purified the Levites and presented them as a wave offering, they are to come to do their work at the tent of meeting. 16 They are the Israelites who are to be given wholly to me. I have taken them as my own in place of the firstborn, the first male offspring from every Israelite woman. 17 Every firstborn male in Israel, whether human or animal, is mine. When I struck down all the firstborn in Egypt, I set them apart for myself. 18 And I have taken the Levites in place of all the firstborn sons in Israel. 19 From among all the Israelites, I have given the Levites as gifts to Aaron and his sons to do the work at the tent of meeting on behalf of the Israelites and to make atonement for them so that no plague will strike the Israelites when they go near the sanctuary.”

20 Moses, Aaron and the whole Israelite community did with the Levites just as the Lord commanded Moses. 21 The Levites purified themselves and washed their clothes. Then Aaron presented them as a wave offering before the Lord and made atonement for them to purify them. 22 After that, the Levites came to do their work at the tent of meeting under the supervision of Aaron and his sons. They did with the Levites just as the Lord commanded Moses.

23 The Lord said to Moses, 24 “This applies to the Levites: Men twenty-five years old or more shall come to take part in the work at the tent of meeting, 25 but at the age of fifty, they must retire from their regular service and work no longer. 26 They may assist their brothers in performing their duties at the tent of meeting, but they themselves must not do the work. This, then, is how you are to assign the responsibilities of the Levites.”

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

TAKE NOTE:  It is interesting that when the tabernacle was dedicated to the Lord, God’s glory moved in (Ex. 40:34, 35) and God’s fire consumed the sacrifices on the altar (Lev. 9:23, 24). But God didn’t light the seven lamps on the gold lampstand in the Holy Place. Why not, we might ask?  God wants us to join HIM in His work to declare who He is.  Worship of God includes doing the work of the Lord as He commands.  Those who belong to God trust and obey God.  So, this assignment by God became the obligation of Aaron, the high priest, for he and his sons and their descendants would have the solemn responsibility of caring for the lampstand, trimming the wicks, adding the sacred oil, and making sure the light was shining. They “belonged to God.”

FOR CLARITY: “If Aaron and his sons were the “official clergy” in the camp, serving at the altar and in the tabernacle, then the Levites were the “dedicated laity” who assisted the priests in their ministry. They were taken and “set apart from the rest of the people of Israel” as substitutes for the firstborn males who belonged to the Lord. The Levites belonged to the Lord (Numbers 8:14), and He gave them to the priests as His special gift (v. 19). The Levites cared for the tabernacle, took the structure down for each march, carried it during the march, and then erected it again in the new location.”         —Warren Wiersbe Study Bible

EMERGING PRINCIPLES OF SERVICE: 

  1. God who chooses, equips, and consecrates His people for spiritual service, and we must accept His will.
  2. The priests oversaw the tabernacle ministry and the Levites assisted them. Every priest had to come from Aaron’s family, and no Levite was allowed to take the place of a priest.
  3. Levites were not permitted to serve at the altar, wear the priestly garments, or enter the sanctuary.
  4. Those who serve must first serve the Lord and then serve His people. God’s servants must be living sacrifices, an “offering to the Lord,” Romans 12:1-2.
  5. We serve the Lord by serving His people, but our orders must come from God. “For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake” (2 Corinthians 4:5).
  6. No matter what task the Lord assigns to us, it is important to His work, and we must do it cheerfully and carefully.  “Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” Ephesians 6:7-8, NLT

PRICIPLES OF GOD-LED LEADERSHIP:

The priests and Levites camped around the tabernacle in designated areas to serve as protectors against those who wanted to invade the holy area and invite the judgment of God.

Today, leaders in local churches must be diligent to protect the flock from “wolves in sheep clothing” who would destroy it. “Take heed to yourselves and to all the flock,” was Paul’s warnings to the leaders of the Ephesian church (Acts 20:28).  He cautioned them that dangerous enemies would arise from both outside the church and within the congregation (Acts 20:29–31). God’s servants must ever be on the alert and courageous to confront the enemies of God’s truth.

We are not alone, however.  No, Never Alone as the old hymn reminds us.  For we belong to God through Jesus work on the cross for our redemption from the Enemy.  Belonging to God means we are more that conquerors and become overcomers with the chief Overcomer, Jesus!  Yes, we are His and He is ours—what blessed assurance!

Lord,

Thank you for focusing our thoughts on belonging to You this morning. Thank you for your love, care, compassion, faithfulness, mercy, and grace that forgives us of all our sins!  Thank you for keeping watch over your beloved. Thank you for teaching us the truth as our daily manna for today.

In Jesus Name, Amen

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TWELVE DAYS OF GIVING

Posted on February 1, 2025 by randscallawayffm

What comes to my mind as we read of the offerings given from the Twelve Tribes of Israel in dedication to God is the song many of us playfully and laboriously sing during the Christmas season.  Most Americans know the lyrics to the “12 Days of Christmas” but most are unaware of the Biblical meaning and origin of the beloved carol!  Since God likes the number 12, let’s learn the true meaning behind the song.

“The Twelve Days of Christmas” is an English Christmas carol that lists a group of increasingly superb gifts given on each of the 12 days of Christmas (the 12 days that make up the Christmas season, starting with Christmas Day). The song, published in England in 1780 without music as a chant or rhyme, is thought to be French in origin. The standard tune we know was derived from a 1909 arrangement of a traditional folk melody by English composer Frederic Austin, who introduced the familiar prolongation of the verse “five gold rings” (now usually called “five golden rings”).

“The Twelve Days of Christmas” to a little more than a silly Christmas carol, most scholars of the Catholic Church deem it a very important surviving example of a time when that denomination used codes to disguise their teachings. Originally a poem written by Catholic clerics, this song was transformed into a carol at a time when celebrating the 12 days of Christmas was one of the most important holiday customs. By understanding the meaning of why the clerics chose the 12 days as wrapping for their poem, the full impact of the tradition of the 12 days of Christmas can be understood.

Meaning of Each Gift in the “12 Days of Christmas”, in case you didn’t know—

1. A Partridge in a Pear Tree: The partridge in a pear tree represents Jesus, the Son of God, whose birthday we celebrate on the first day of Christmas. Christ is symbolically presented as a mother partridge, the only bird that will die to protect its young.

2. Two Turtledoves: These twin birds represent the Old and New Testaments. So, in this gift, the singer finds the complete story of the Christian faith and God’s plan for the world. The doves are the biblical roadmap that is available to everyone.

3. Three French Hens: These birds represent faith, hope, and love. This gift hearkens back to 1 Corinthians 13, the love chapter written by the Apostle Paul. It also represents the Holy Trinity: The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

4. Four Calling Birds: One of the easiest facets of the song’s code to figure out these fowl are the four Gospels — Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

5. Five Gold Rings: The gift of the rings represents the first five books of the Old Testament, known as the Torah or the Pentateuch, (which we are now reading): Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.

6. Six Geese a-Laying: These lyrics can be traced back to the first story found in the Bible. Each egg is a day in creation when God “hatched” or formed the world; God created the heavens and the earth, God created the sky and seas, God created the land and plants, God created the sun, moon, and stars, God created fish and birds, God created land animals and man
 

7. Seven Swans a-Swimming: It would take someone quite familiar with the Bible to identify this gift. Hidden in the code are the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: Prophecy, Ministry, Teaching, Exhortation, Giving, Leading, Compassion. As swans are one of the most beautiful and graceful creatures on earth, they would seem to be a perfect symbol for spiritual gifts.

8. Eight Maids-a-Milking: As Christ came to save even the lowest of the low, this gift represents the ones who would receive his word and accept his grace. Being a milkmaid was about the worst job one could have in England during this period; this code conveyed that Jesus cared as much about servants as he did those of royal blood. The Eight Maids represent the 8 Beatitudes, from Matthew 5:3-10: Blessed are…the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven, Those who mourn: for they shall be comforted, The meek: for they shall inherit the earth, Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled, The merciful: for they shall obtain mercy, The pure in heart: for they shall see God, The peacemakers: for they shall be called children of God, They which are persecuted for righteousness sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

9. Nine Ladies Dancing: These nine dancers were really the gifts known as the fruit of the Spirit. The Fruits of the Spirit include: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self-control.

10. Ten Lords a-leaping: This is probably the easiest gift to understand. As lords were judges and in charge of the law, this code for the Ten Commandments was fairly straightforward to Christians.  Thou shall have no other gods before me, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain, Remember the Sabbath Day to keep it holy, Honor thy father and mother, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor, Thou shalt not covet.

11. Eleven Pipers Piping: This is almost a trick question, as most think of the disciples in terms of the dozen. But when Judas betrayed Jesus and committed suicide, only eleven men carried out the gospel message. Therefore, the Eleven Pipers Piping signify the 11 Faithful Disciples: Simon (whom He named Peter), Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James, son of Alphaeus, Simon, who was called the Zealot, Judas, son of James, and Judas Iscariot was later replaced with faithful Matthias.

12. Twelve Drummers Drumming: The final gift is tied directly to the Catholic Church. The drummers are the 12 points of doctrine in the Apostles’ Creed. (Protestants leave out number 9.)

1. I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

2. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.

3. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary.

4. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.

5. He descended into hell. On the third day, He rose again.

6. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.

7. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

8. I believe in the Holy Spirit,

9. the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints,

10. the forgiveness of sins,

11. the resurrection of the body,

12. and the life everlasting.

(Sources: The Twelve Days of Christmas – True Meaning Behind the Lyrics | Crosswalk.com, Christianity.com, Wikipedia.org.)

Okay, why did we need to know?  This information helps us understand the meaning and story behind important Christian holidays of tradition that began with God who first loved us and gave His Son to us.  Sometimes we just need to pause life and reflect take time to reflect on all that God has done for us through His Son, Jesus Christ!

AND, since God likes the number twelve as His way of organizing His People; we will come closer to knowing who He is and why He teaches the leaders of the Twelve Tribes to give back a portion of what He has so generously and graciously given to them.  Their offerings will be accepted as ways to atone for their sins and dedicate their lives to God!  Giving is in the DNA of God’s created because we were created in the image of God, the Giver of Life!

Numbers 7

Offerings at the Dedication of the Tabernacle

When Moses finished setting up the tabernacle, he anointed and consecrated it and all its furnishings. He also anointed and consecrated the altar and all its utensils. 2 Then the leaders of Israel, the heads of families who were the tribal leaders in charge of those who were counted, made offerings. 3 They brought as their gifts before the Lord six covered carts and twelve oxen—an ox from each leader and a cart from every two. These they presented before the tabernacle.

4 The Lord said to Moses, 5 “Accept these from them, that they may be used in the work at the tent of meeting. Give them to the Levites as each man’s work requires.”

6 So Moses took the carts and oxen and gave them to the Levites. 7 He gave two carts and four oxen to the Gershonites, as their work required, 8 and he gave four carts and eight oxen to the Merarites, as their work required. They were all under the direction of Ithamar son of Aaron, the priest. 9 But Moses did not give any to the Kohathites, because they were to carry on their shoulders the holy things, for which they were responsible.

10 When the altar was anointed, the leaders brought their offerings for its dedication and presented them before the altar. 11 For the Lord had said to Moses, “Each day one leader is to bring his offering for the dedication of the altar.”

12 The one who brought his offering on the first day was Nahshon son of Amminadab of the tribe of Judah.

13 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering; 14 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; 15 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering; 16 one male goat for a sin offering[d]; 17 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Nahshon son of Amminadab.

18 On the second day Nethanel son of Zuar, the leader of Issachar, brought his offering.

19 The offering he brought was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering; 20 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; 21 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering; 22 one male goat for a sin offering; 23 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Nethanel son of Zuar.

24 On the third day, Eliab son of Helon, the leader of the people of Zebulun, brought his offering.

25 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering; 26 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; 27 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering; 28 one male goat for a sin offering; 29 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Eliab son of Helon.

30 On the fourth day Elizur son of Shedeur, the leader of the people of Reuben, brought his offering.

31 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering; 32 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; 33 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering; 34 one male goat for a sin offering; 35 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Elizur son of Shedeur.

36 On the fifth day Shelumiel son of Zurishaddai, the leader of the people of Simeon, brought his offering.

37 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering; 38 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; 39 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering; 40 one male goat for a sin offering; 41 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Shelumiel son of Zurishaddai.

42 On the sixth day Eliasaph son of Deuel, the leader of the people of Gad, brought his offering.

43 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering; 44 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; 45 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering; 46 one male goat for a sin offering; 47 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Eliasaph son of Deuel.

48 On the seventh day Elishama son of Ammihud, the leader of the people of Ephraim, brought his offering.

49 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering; 50 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; 51 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering; 52 one male goat for a sin offering; 53 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Elishama son of Ammihud.

54 On the eighth day Gamaliel son of Pedahzur, the leader of the people of Manasseh, brought his offering.

55 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering; 56 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; 57 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering; 58 one male goat for a sin offering; 59 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Gamaliel son of Pedahzur.

60 On the ninth day Abidan son of Gideoni, the leader of the people of Benjamin, brought his offering.

61 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering; 62 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; 63 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering; 64 one male goat for a sin offering; 65 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Abidan son of Gideoni.

66 On the tenth day Ahiezer son of Ammishaddai, the leader of the people of Dan, brought his offering.

67 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering; 68 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; 69 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering; 70 one male goat for a sin offering; 71 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Ahiezer son of Ammishaddai.

72 On the eleventh day Pagiel son of Okran, the leader of the people of Asher, brought his offering.

73 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering; 74 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; 75 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering; 76 one male goat for a sin offering; 77 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Pagiel son of Okran.

78 On the twelfth day Ahira son of Enan, the leader of the people of Naphtali, brought his offering.

79 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering; 80 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; 81 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering; 82 one male goat for a sin offering; 83 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Ahira son of Enan.

84 These were the offerings of the Israelite leaders for the dedication of the altar when it was anointed: twelve silver plates, twelve silver sprinkling bowls and twelve gold dishes. 85 Each silver plate weighed a hundred and thirty shekels, and each sprinkling bowl seventy shekels. Altogether, the silver dishes weighed two thousand four hundred shekels, according to the sanctuary shekel. 86 The twelve gold dishes filled with incense weighed ten shekels each, according to the sanctuary shekel. Altogether, the gold dishes weighed a hundred and twenty shekels. 87 The total number of animals for the burnt offering came to twelve young bulls, twelve rams and twelve male lambs a year old, together with their grain offering. Twelve male goats were used for the sin offering. 88 The total number of animals for the sacrifice of the fellowship offering came to twenty-four oxen, sixty rams, sixty male goats and sixty male lambs a year old. These were the offerings for the dedication of the altar after it was anointed.

89 When Moses entered the tent of meeting to speak with the Lord, he heard the voice speaking to him from between the two cherubim above the atonement cover on the ark of the covenant law. In this way the Lord spoke to him.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

The fact that God noted and recorded each name and each gift indicates His love for and interest in the individual believer. He knows us by name! (John 10:3)

We are a people blessed of the Lord, just like the ancients before us!  With these blessings comes the obligation to be a blessing to others. God wants us to be a generous people, supporting the local church and helping the work of the Lord around the world as He directs us.

Lord,

I trust you with my life because YOU are the Giver of Life eternal!  You are Provider, Healer, Sustainer, Protector, Savior, and Lord.  Who would I trust but You?  No one.

I offer my life to you as an offering to you.  Lead me in all I think, say, and do.

In Jesus Name, Amen

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THE VOW TO COME CLOSER STILL TO GOD

Posted on January 31, 2025 by randscallawayffm

I’ve heard it said many times and now realize in my life that God is a close as our most sincere, fervent prayer.  In truth, God is as close as the mere mention of His name! The Psalmist verifies it;

The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” Psalm 145:18

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” Psalm 34:18

How comforting it is to know that our God actually saves us by taking our pain and giving us special joy, comfort, healing that can only come from His Holy Spirit who lives in all who believe Him.  Sometimes, in tragedies, we will suddenly feel an extraordinary calm, this is the Spirit of God drawing ever nearer to us. There is power in His Presence as we draw near to Him.  We all face trials and tests that force us to decide daily and sometimes hourly to whom do we truly believe and trust with all our lives?  Do we trust God fully and completely—no matter the current situation or circumstance?

The Nazirites took a vow to be fully dedicated to the Lord and trust in Him completely.  It was God who established the Nazirite vow to form a small group who would serve God. The restrictions (abstain from drinking wine, cutting or shaving hair, and touching a dead body) were intended to keep a Nazirite’s life holy and clean.  They followed special rules to be closer in mind and spirit to God. They provide examples for us of dedication to God. Religious rules should only be followed by people who have a sincere heart.

Numbers 6

The Nazirite

6 The Lord said to Moses, 2 “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘If a man or woman wants to make a special vow, a vow of dedication to the Lord as a Nazirite, 3 they must abstain from wine and other fermented drink and must not drink vinegar made from wine or other fermented drink. They must not drink grape juice or eat grapes or raisins. 4 As long as they remain under their Nazirite vow, they must not eat anything that comes from the grapevine, not even the seeds or skins.

5 “‘During the entire period of their Nazirite vow, no razor may be used on their head. They must be holy until the period of their dedication to the Lord is over; they must let their hair grow long.

6 “‘Throughout the period of their dedication to the Lord, the Nazirite must not go near a dead body. 7 Even if their own father or mother or brother or sister dies, they must not make themselves ceremonially unclean on account of them, because the symbol of their dedication to God is on their head. 8 Throughout the period of their dedication, they are consecrated to the Lord.

9 “‘If someone dies suddenly in the Nazirite’s presence, thus defiling the hair that symbolizes their dedication, they must shave their head on the seventh day—the day of their cleansing. 10 Then on the eighth day they must bring two doves or two young pigeons to the priest at the entrance to the tent of meeting. 11 The priest is to offer one as a sin offering and the other as a burnt offering to make atonement for the Nazirite because they sinned by being in the presence of the dead body. That same day they are to consecrate their head again. 12 They must rededicate themselves to the Lord for the same period of dedication and must bring a year-old male lamb as a guilt offering. The previous days do not count, because they became defiled during their period of dedication.

13 “‘Now this is the law of the Nazirite when the period of their dedication is over. They are to be brought to the entrance to the tent of meeting. 14 There they are to present their offerings to the Lord: a year-old male lamb without defect for a burnt offering, a year-old ewe lamb without defect for a sin offering, a ram without defect for a fellowship offering, 15 together with their grain offerings and drink offerings, and a basket of bread made with the finest flour and without yeast—thick loaves with olive oil mixed in, and thin loaves brushed with olive oil.

16 “‘The priest is to present all these before the Lord and make the sin offering and the burnt offering. 17 He is to present the basket of unleavened bread and is to sacrifice the ram as a fellowship offering to the Lord, together with its grain offering and drink offering.

18 “‘Then at the entrance to the tent of meeting, the Nazirite must shave off the hair that symbolizes their dedication. They are to take the hair and put it in the fire that is under the sacrifice of the fellowship offering.

19 “‘After the Nazirite has shaved off the hair that symbolizes their dedication, the priest is to place in their hands a boiled shoulder of the ram, and one thick loaf and one thin loaf from the basket, both made without yeast. 20 The priest shall then wave these before the Lord as a wave offering; they are holy and belong to the priest, together with the breast that was waved and the thigh that was presented. After that, the Nazirite may drink wine.

21 “‘This is the law of the Nazirite who vows offerings to the Lord in accordance with their dedication, in addition to whatever else they can afford. They must fulfill the vows they have made, according to the law of the Nazirite.’”

The Priestly Blessing

22 The Lord said to Moses, 23 “Tell Aaron and his sons, ‘This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them:

24 “‘“The Lord bless you
    and keep you;
25 the Lord make his face shine on you
    and be gracious to you;
26 the Lord turn his face toward you
    and give you peace.”’

27 “So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.”

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

Don’t confuse “Nazirite” with “Nazarene.” Jesus was called a “Nazarene” because He came from Nazareth, a city despised by the people of Judea (John 1:43–46). The word “Nazirite” comes from a Hebrew word that means “to set apart, to dedicate.” Each Nazirite had a different goal in mind, but all of them wanted to glorify the Lord and obey His Word. They didn’t isolate themselves from society but rather were witnesses to others of the importance of total devotion to the Lord. Their vow was for a specified period (Read Acts 21:23–27 for an example) and a specified purpose.  We think of Esther who believed God and “for such a time as this” dedicated herself to God and His people to save them from harm. Enjoy this beautiful story of dedication in the Book of Esther!

We do not need to become Nazirites to serve Christ. As believers, we strive to learn to follow God’s Word and pray for God’s wisdom so you can better serve Him in all places…family, vocation, and even on vacation!  No matter where we are or what we are dealing with at any given moment; prayer takes away fears and anxieties as we place all our trust firmly in our heavenly Father.  I know this because God has done in over and over again in my life.  And just yesterday and today, as we face yet another trial, He’s doing it again!

God’s priests were not only given the privilege of serving at the altar and ministering in the sanctuary, but they were also allowed to bless God’s people in the name of the Lord. We still use this blessing today, for it belongs to us as well as to Israel.

The Apostle Paul reminds God’s church that we have been blessed with “every spiritual blessing” through the Lord Jesus Christ (See Ephesians 1:3), and we can claim this benediction through Him!

We need the blessings that God gave to the priests to deliver to His people.  How sweet it is to know that when we draw near to God; He draws near to us!  God’s blessings are to be cared for by the Lord who watches over us; to have the smile of His face upon us and the riches of His grace given to us; to have Him pay attention to us when we call; and, as the result of these things, to enjoy His peace in our hearts.

And that’s why we trust Him!

The Lord bless you and keep you;
the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.

In Jesus Name, for our good and His glory, Amen!  Yes, and Amen!

Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine
He’s been my fourth man in the fire, time after time
Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood
And what He did for me on Calvary is more than enough

I trust in God, my Savior
The one who will never fail
He will never fail
I trust in God, my Savior
The one who will never fail
He will never fail

Perfect submission, all is at rest
I know the author of tomorrow has ordered my steps
So this is my story and this is my song
I’m praising my risen King and Savior all the day long

I trust in God, my Savior
The one who will never fail…

“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23

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NEXT TO GODLINESS?

Posted on January 30, 2025 by randscallawayffm

“Cleanliness is next to Godliness,” Grandma Lacquement would often say to guilt me into washing my hands before meals after being outside with farm animals or fishing at the ponds! Grit under my fingernails was not acceptable to Grandma who served delicious meals to us!  Dirt on my overalls needed to be brushed off and muddy shoes left at the door before I could join them at the table.  Since Grandma was an avid Bible reader, and I felt “next to God”, I assumed this phrase was from God!

While the exact phrase “cleanliness is next to Godliness” does not appear in the Bible, the scriptures emphasize the importance of cleanliness. We learned throughout Leviticus God’s directives with details of various purification rituals required to maintain cleanliness. These rituals were not only about physical hygiene but also about spiritual purification.

The saying “cleanliness is next to godliness” suggests that being clean is nearly as important as being morally upright. It also implies the significance of maintaining personal hygiene and a tidy living environment without passing diseases. In Christianity, however, this idea isn’t just about keeping our bodies and homes clean. It also means keeping our hearts and minds clean. This internal cleanliness involves virtues like kindness, honesty, and faith.

As we read Numbers 5 today of the consequences of uncleanliness let us ask the Holy Spirit to examine our own hearts and evaluate our internal cleanliness.  Is our thought life virtuous; thinking, being, and doing what is right and good?  Are our heart’s intentions for our good and for God’s glory?  Cleanliness means being kind to others, telling the truth, and helping those in need. These good actions and attitudes make our hearts pure. When our hearts are pure, we are more like God wants us to be. The Bible teaches that God looks at the heart, not just our outward actions. So, being clean inside is very important to our faith!

Yes, faith is also a big part of internal cleanliness. Having strong faith means trusting in God and believing in His teachings. It means praying to seek God first, reading the Bible for understanding and application, as we strive to live like Jesus taught us. When we have strong faith, we are spiritually clean. This helps us feel closer to God and live in a way that honors Him. So, “Cleanliness is next to Godliness” reminds us to keep our hearts and minds clean with good virtues and strong faith.

Numbers 5

The Purity of the Camp

The Lord said to Moses, 2 “Command the Israelites to send away from the camp anyone who has a defiling skin disease or a discharge of any kind, or who is ceremonially unclean because of a dead body. 3 Send away male and female alike; send them outside the camp so they will not defile their camp, where I dwell among them.” 4 The Israelites did so; they sent them outside the camp. They did just as the Lord had instructed Moses.

Restitution for Wrongs

5 The Lord said to Moses, 6 “Say to the Israelites: ‘Any man or woman who wrongs another in any way and so is unfaithful to the Lord is guilty 7 and must confess the sin they have committed. They must make full restitution for the wrong they have done, add a fifth of the value to it and give it all to the person they have wronged. 8 But if that person has no close relative to whom restitution can be made for the wrong, the restitution belongs to the Lord and must be given to the priest, along with the ram with which atonement is made for the wrongdoer. 9 All the sacred contributions the Israelites bring to a priest will belong to him. 10 Sacred things belong to their owners, but what they give to the priest will belong to the priest.’”

The Test for an Unfaithful Wife

11 Then the Lord said to Moses, 12 “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘If a man’s wife goes astray and is unfaithful to him 13 so that another man has sexual relations with her, and this is hidden from her husband and her impurity is undetected (since there is no witness against her and she has not been caught in the act), 14 and if feelings of jealousy come over her husband and he suspects his wife and she is impure—or if he is jealous and suspects her even though she is not impure— 15 then he is to take his wife to the priest. He must also take an offering of a tenth of an ephah of barley flour on her behalf. He must not pour olive oil on it or put incense on it, because it is a grain offering for jealousy, a reminder-offering to draw attention to wrongdoing.

16 “‘The priest shall bring her and have her stand before the Lord. 17 Then he shall take some holy water in a clay jar and put some dust from the tabernacle floor into the water. 18 After the priest has had the woman stand before the Lord, he shall loosen her hair and place in her hands the reminder-offering, the grain offering for jealousy, while he himself holds the bitter water that brings a curse. 19 Then the priest shall put the woman under oath and say to her, “If no other man has had sexual relations with you and you have not gone astray and become impure while married to your husband, may this bitter water that brings a curse not harm you. 20 But if you have gone astray while married to your husband and you have made yourself impure by having sexual relations with a man other than your husband”— 21 here the priest is to put the woman under this curse—“may the Lord cause you to become a curse among your people when he makes your womb miscarry and your abdomen swell. 22 May this water that brings a curse enter your body so that your abdomen swells or your womb miscarries.”

“‘Then the woman is to say, “Amen. So be it.”

23 “‘The priest is to write these curses on a scroll and then wash them off into the bitter water. 24 He shall make the woman drink the bitter water that brings a curse, and this water that brings a curse and causes bitter suffering will enter her. 25 The priest is to take from her hands the grain offering for jealousy, wave it before the Lord and bring it to the altar. 26 The priest is then to take a handful of the grain offering as a memorial offering and burn it on the altar; after that, he is to have the woman drink the water. 27 If she has made herself impure and been unfaithful to her husband, this will be the result: When she is made to drink the water that brings a curse and causes bitter suffering, it will enter her, her abdomen will swell and her womb will miscarry, and she will become a curse. 28 If, however, the woman has not made herself impure, but is clean, she will be cleared of guilt and will be able to have children.

29 “‘This, then, is the law of jealousy when a woman goes astray and makes herself impure while married to her husband, 30 or when feelings of jealousy come over a man because he suspects his wife. The priest is to have her stand before the Lord and is to apply this entire law to her. 31 The husband will be innocent of any wrongdoing, but the woman will bear the consequences of her sin.’”

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

The concepts of “clean” and “unclean” were vital to sustaining daily life in Israel. Cleanliness involved much more than personal hygiene; it involved being acceptable to God in what they ate, what they wore, and how they conducted themselves at home and in public. The Israelites were in the infancy of their faith, and God used familiar pictures to teach them spiritual truth. He compared sin to disease and defilement and holiness to health and cleanliness (Leviticus 11–15). Unclean people were put out of the camp until they had met the ceremonial requirements for reentry.  This was for the protection of the healthy.

In the New Testament, the emphasis shifts more towards inner purity. Jesus teaches that it is not just the outward cleanliness that matters but the purity of the heart. For example; In Matthew 23:25-26, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for focusing on outward cleanliness while neglecting the cleanliness of their hearts: “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.”  The priests had all but forgotten God and had lived their lives without Him, demanding from the people what they did not deserve as compensation.  God’s system for restitution, atonement, and forgiveness had broken down in translation and application.  Jesus, God’s Son, came to set them straight!

Our response as believers in Jesus today is to maintain cleanliness in daily life as an expression of our respect for God’s creation, which includes our bodies. We were “made in the image of God”! The Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and should be treated with respect: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”  This principle extends to our living environments as well. Keeping our homes and surroundings clean reflects our respect for the blessings God has given us to steward or manage. It also creates an environment conducive to worship and fellowship with others! A clean home can be a place where God’s presence is felt while love and hospitality is extended to others.

In addition to physical cleanliness, believers in Jesus are called to pursue spiritual cleanliness. This involves asking the Holy Spirit to guide us in examining our hearts and minds regularly and seeking forgiveness and cleansing from God. Psalm 51:10 is a beautiful prayer that I pray daily and hold dear as I seek God: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” This verse highlights the importance of seeking God’s help in maintaining spiritual purity.

Staying clean is a discipline well worth the investment!  May our first thought as we rise each morning be communication with the God who loves us and sent His Son to save us!  Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 to “pray without ceasing,” which implies quick, inner prayers throughout the day. These honest prayers reflect our desire to be led by God in all the details of life and can be as simple as expressing gratitude or seeking guidance in a moment of need.

Daily reading the Bible is essential to staying “attached to the Vine” of our existence in Truth as a believer!  The Bible is daily manna for our souls! 

Sharing the Truth with friends who also believe or are on their way to believing is vital to our growing faith while maintaining spiritual cleanliness and wellness.  We need each other!  Paul speaks of this need often with ways to help each other!  All these disciplines help us to stay connected to God and to live lives that reflect His holiness.

Lord,

Cleanse my heart, remove all that does not belong.  Renew my mind with your Truth.  Transform my behaviors so I will be more like you today than yesterday.  Refresh my soul with your tender mercies of correction for today. Restore the joy of your salvation always at work within me.  Create in me a pure heart, O Lord.

In Jesus Name, Amen

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