Deborah – superhero of Israel ∙∙

Deborah – superhero of Israel ∙∙

In those days, there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes. – Judges 21:25

Judges 2:18-19

 18 Whenever the LORD raised up a judge over Israel, he was with that judge and rescued the people from their enemies throughout the judge’s lifetime. For the LORD took pity on his people, who were burdened by oppression and suffering.

 19 But when the judge died, the people returned to their corrupt ways, behaving worse than those who had lived before them. They went after other gods, serving and worshiping them. And they refused to give up their evil practices and stubborn ways.

Superheroes possess abilities beyond those of ordinary folks. They use their powers to help people in times of danger.

The antecedents of modern fanciful superheroes are found in real history, myth, and legend. Superheroes perform feats of incredible strength, fighting prowess, and cunning. They are reminiscent of the tales of Hercules, Jason, Achilles, or the Amazon warriors.  Some Old Testament Biblical superheroes are Samson, Deborah, and David.

When difficult challenges arise, and others freeze and shrink back, superheroes plow ahead and face them. The same is true of real-life heroes. There are numerous examples of individuals who consistently live heroic lives, such as firefighters and other first responders.

Medical personnel such as nurses who regularly comfort the sick and dying are heroes. Their selfless response to the COVID-19 pandemic showcased their loyalty. Ubiquitous signs proclaimed, “Real heroes work here!” Nurses embody certain personality traits or qualities that distinguish them from others. They uphold a strong ethical code and personal values, showing empathy and providing care. They lead their lives guided by these values and are prepared to face the personal risks upholding them.

The Book of Judges was written circa 1045 BC. It covers the period from just after the Conquest of Canaan, circa 1300 BC, to the time of Solomon, circa 1000 BC (1 Kings 6:1). The book of Judges chronicles the tragic story of Israel’s cycle of disobedience, rebellion, and idolatry. Repeatedly, the people of Israel went from short periods of righteous living to failure and sin. Eventually, they would repent and ask the Father for help.

The Father honored His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Father would send a leader, a judge, to save His people from their oppressors.

During a particularly difficult period, Deborah, the prophet, appeared. She was a “force of nature” to contend with. However, rather than being a physically imposing warrior, like  Wonder Woman or a female WWF superstar.

1 Corinthians 1:26-29

 26 Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you.

 27 Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful.

 28 God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important.

 29 As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God.

Use your imagination and picture her as a small, petite woman, perhaps only 5’ 2”. Her strength came from within, resting upon her character and integrity. She was robust, resourceful, and resilient. She was taken seriously and had great personal resolve, courage, and influence. Deborah was steadfast and devoted to the Father. She was one of His servants. She inspired the army of Israel to be confident and win.

In addition to her natural strengths, Deborah was also a prophet. She heard directly from the Father (Judges 4:6-7). The Father would give her the military strategy to defeat the enemies of Israel. She would, in turn, pass it on to Barak, leader of Israel’s army. When Barak carried out her instructions, victory was certain. The Father’s intervention and battle plan brought success.

REFLECT & PRAY

Proverbs 21:31 The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD.

Father in so many ways, we are ordinary people like Deborah. Encourage us to seek to have the spirit of Deborah.

INSIGHT

The Father has only two simple criteria for service: availability and willingness. Only Deborah was suited for the task at hand. No man was willing to man up.

Ancient armies were not coed. The leaders were most often strong, dominant male warriors. Consider Agamemnon, Alexander, Caesar, or Hannibal. The fact that Israel’s all-male army would not go to war without Deborah was a slap in their face. There was no honor for these men.

Deborah did not seek personal acclaim. Ultimately, the praise and glory were directed towards the Father. He was the unseen leader of Israel’s army. She was only His mouthpiece.

Judges 4:8-9

 8 Barak told her, “I will go, but only if you go with me.”

 9 “Very well,” she replied, “I will go with you. But you will receive no honor in this venture, for the LORD’s victory over Sisera will be at the hands of a woman.”

When it comes to battles, the honor and glory of the victory go to the victorious commander. Barak forfeits the honor of being the commanding general. Deborah accepts the leadership position. Deborah’s words in the original Hebrew could well be rendered, “Into the hand of a woman the Lord will sell” the opposition. The emphasis here is that not only will Barak lose the honor of victory, but he will lose it to a woman.

In their patriarchal society, the men of Israel reluctantly followed a housewife and mom. It was totally counter-cultural. Yet, with Deborah at the helm, the men were certain that God was with them and would ensure their victory. The logic is simple: Wherever the Lord sends His prophet, He is with His prophet. The men had only two choices: follow a woman into battle and win, or go it alone and lose.

“When God wants to glorify Himself through His people, He always has a perfect plan for us to follow. God chose the leader of His army, the place for the battle, and the plan for His army to follow. God also guaranteed the victory.” (Wiersbe)!

Is it possible to have Deborah’s spirit today? Can we be full of faith and courage and energized by the Father’s zeal? Yes, absolutely, yes!

Every child of the King has a purpose, abilities, and gifts. Each child of the King can hear from the Father, take Him at His Word, trust, and take action. Each of us can have the spirit of Deborah.

In the 21st century, our war is frequently not with flesh and blood enemies. Instead, our enemies are internal: fear of failure, feelings of inferiority, concerns over what others think, low self-esteem, and often even stubbornness. The Father wants to free us from our internal foes!

Philippians 2:13 For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.

There is a somewhat humorous back story, an oddity of science. For many years, despite the apparent evidence to the contrary, it was thought that bumblebees should not be able to fly because of their short and stubby wings. Their bodies are body too heavy for their wings. In the 1930s, French entomologist August Magnan concluded that the insect’s flight was impossible, a notion that has stuck in popular consciousness since then.

Thus, the bumblebee flight was considered a violation of the law of aerodynamics. Apparently, bumblebees skipped their science, mechanics, and physics classes and were not burdened by this information.

The enigma of bumblebee flight was solved in 2005 by Dr. Michael Dickinson, a professor of biology and insect flight expert at the University of Washington. He used high-speed photography to capture the wing movement of flying bees.

It turns out that bumblebees do not flap their wings up and down. This is a common misconception. Instead, they flap their wings back and forth. This has been dubbed a “bug flap.” Such movements provide sufficient lift to allow the bumblebees to fly. Who would have guessed? Perhaps while skipping class, they were outside watching hummingbirds, dragonflies, or even helicopters.

“Aerodynamically, the bumblebee shouldn’t be able to fly, but the bumblebee doesn’t know it, so it goes on flying anyway” (Mary Kay Ash).

What is the connection? The name Deborah means bumblebee. Perhaps Deborah was simply unaware that men would not follow women’s leadership. So she led them anyway.

Deborah’s supernatural influence and power demonstrate that the impossible can undoubtedly come to pass. The spirit of Deborah, a spirit of vibrant faith and trust, is available to every child of the King. As the Father exposes what needs to be done in our lives, we should not shrink back from these internal enemies. Instead, we must forge ahead, relying on the Holy Spirit, who is actively at work within us.

Mark 10:27 Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But not with God. Everything is possible with God.

It is past time to stop doubting our faith and believing our doubts. Instead, doubt our doubts and believe our faith.

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© Dr. H 2024

When a generation knows not God ∙

When a generation knows not God ∙

The people of Israel served the LORD throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him – those who had personally experienced all that the LORD had done for Israel. – Joshua 24:31

Judges 21:25 In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes.

The 18th century was one of the most extraordinary chapters in the development of Western civilization. Extraordinary individuals possessing a deep understanding of human behavior, historical context, and the foundations for a stable, enduring Republic rose to positions of power and influence. In 1788, the nascent American states debated ratifying the new US Constitution. The fact that individuals from so many disparate backgrounds and dispositions could join together and create such a document was considered by many nothing less than a divine act of Providence. George Washington made several salient observations worthy of consideration in the 21st century.

“It appears to me, then, little short of a miracle, that the Delegates from so many different States . . .. should unite in forming a system of national Government, so little liable to well-founded objections” (Washington).

“We are not to expect perfection in this world; but mankind, in modern times, have apparently made some progress in the science of government” (Washington)

“No country upon earth ever had it more in its power to attain these blessings than United America. Wondrously strange, then, and much to be regretted indeed would it be, were we to neglect the means and to depart from the road which Providence has pointed us to so plainly; I cannot believe it will ever come to pass” (Washington).

It was a remarkable time when most of these individuals firmly believed in the existence of a providential, creator God. They believed He had brought them to the present hour and given them victory over the strongest military power on earth at the time, Great Britain.

But what happens when the people of a nation collectively forget the God of the Bible? Sadly, this happened many times in the history of the nation of Israel.

Joseph, one of Jacob’s twelve sons, found himself in a tough situation as a prisoner in the land of Egypt. Yet the Father was with Joseph and gave him exceptional abilities, brilliance, and character. Joseph rose to the top and became second in command to Pharaoh. Through his leadership, Egypt and the emergent nation of Israel were saved from death by famine, paving their way to prosperity. Eventually, at the age of 130, Joseph’s life ended (Genesis 50:26).

Exodus 1:6-7

 6 In time, Joseph and all of his brothers died, ending that entire generation.

 7 But their descendants, the Israelites, had many children and grandchildren. In fact, they multiplied so greatly that they became extremely powerful and filled the land.

Soon, a shadow of intolerance spread across the land of Egypt. Anti-Semitism was on the rise, and harsh treatment of the children of Israel was commenced. When God is forgotten, so are the people associated with His name.

Exodus 1:8-10

 8 Eventually, a new king came to power in Egypt who knew nothing about Joseph or what he had done.

 9 He said to his people, “Look, the people of Israel now outnumber us and are stronger than we are.”

 10 “We must make a plan to keep them from growing even more. If we don’t, and if war breaks out, they will join our enemies and fight against us. Then they will escape from the country.”

Exodus 1:11-14

 11 So the Egyptians made the Israelites their slaves. They appointed brutal slave drivers over them, hoping to wear them down with crushing labor. They forced them to build the cities of Pithom and Rameses as supply centers for the king.

 12 But the more the Egyptians oppressed them, the more the Israelites multiplied and spread, and the more alarmed the Egyptians became.

 13 So the Egyptians worked the people of Israel without mercy.

 14 They made their lives bitter, forcing them to mix mortar and make bricks and do all the work in the fields. They were ruthless in all their demands.

The situation rapidly deteriorated, going from bad to worse. A program aimed at systematic extermination was set in motion. Pharaoh’s resolution was grim: the death of all newborn male Hebrew children.

Exodus 1:15-22

 15 Then Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, gave this order to the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah:

 16 “When you help the Hebrew women as they give birth, watch as they deliver. If the baby is a boy, kill him; if it is a girl, let her live.”

 17 But because the midwives feared God, they refused to obey the king’s orders. They allowed the boys to live, too.

 22 Then Pharaoh gave this order to all his people: “Throw every newborn Hebrew boy into the Nile River. But you may let the girls live.”

That scheme did not work out too well either. The Father providentially saved Moses from certain death at the hands of Pharaoh. The rest, as they say, is history.

REFLECT & PRAY

Proverbs 14:34 Godliness makes a nation great, but sin is a disgrace to any people.

Father thank You for your providential work and intervention in human history. Guide each child of the King in how they respond to the present hour.

INSIGHT

Tragically, the nation of Israel itself forgot the God of the Bible soon after they entered the Promised Land. Under the leadership of Joshua and Caleb, the people took possession of the Promised Land. The angel of the Lord led Joshua to victory (Joshua 5). The promise of the Father was fulfilled. This generation of Israelites knew and worshiped the true God, the Father. They had seen His miraculous work that freed them from slavery. This was Israel’s “the Greatest Generation.” But when that generation died out, their faith in God was not followed by those who came after them. By the end of the book of Judges, the people had forgotten the God of the Bible.

Judges 21:25 In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes.

The people of Israel served the LORD throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him – those who had personally experienced all that the LORD had done for Israel. (Joshua 24:31). 

Jeremiah 2:11 Has any nation ever traded its gods for new ones, even though they are not gods at all? Yet my people have exchanged their glorious God for worthless idols!

During the 20th century, numerous countries worldwide witnessed the emergence of generations that did not know the Bible’s God. Germany was among these nations. In his book “When a Nation Forgets God,” Dr. Erwin W. Lutzer r tells the story of what happened.

“Erwin Lutzer asks . . . What happens to the nation that forgets God? Using the history of Nazi Germany as his canvas, Lutzer brilliantly illustrates a critically important truth. Just as nature abhors a vacuum, a culture which drives every vestige of God from the marketplace of ideas inevitably finds it has sown seeds that it will reap in the whirlwind” (Frank Wright, President & CEO, National Religious Broadcasters).

Many of the things that unfolded in Nazi Germany are eerily similar to events occurring today. As the 20th century dawned, Germany bore remarkable similarities to the United States at the onset of the 21st century. Despite their rich culture and formidable military power, the German people were demoralized and diminished by warfare. The nation was thrust into a period of uncertainty and turbulence. Unthinkable political shifts occurred. Society plunged into darkness.

Consider several of Lutzer’s observations from the book:

  • The broader welfare of Germany overshadowed individual liberties and the right to dissent.
  • When the economy was robust, concerns over freedoms such as speech, travel, or electoral rights seemed secondary to many.
  • Given an option, the majority prioritized basic necessities like food over personal freedoms.
  • Treason was defined as anything contrary to the will and purpose of the Reich.
  • The best way to conquer your enemies is to divide them.
  • Political leadership tapped into the anger of the German people.
  • Propaganda was utilized to disrupt the existing state of affairs.
  • Before long, facts did not matter.
  • Lies and intimidation silenced opposition.
  • The cross of Christ was distorted and diminished when wrapped in the flag of a political party.
  • Churches did not have enough room for both the cross and the swastika.
  • Emotional appeals often proved stronger than rational arguments.
  • Warning signs were disregarded because people wanted to believe in something so strongly. It did not matter whether it was a lie or not.

Could it be that the Father is sending a warning to the children of the King? Is He speaking to us through the stories in the Scriptures and also modern-day events? Are we on the brink of a terrifying, monstrous future that most do not wish? What should the children of the King do?

We are to follow the example of the sons of Issachar.

1 Chronicles 12:32 From the tribe of Issachar, there were 200 leaders of the tribe with their relatives. All these men understood the signs of the times and knew the best course for Israel to take

Paul provides sufficient warning and practical advice.

1 Thessalonians 5:4-11

 4 But you aren’t in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won’t be surprised when the day of the Lord comes like a thief.

 5 For you are all children of the light and of the day; we don’t belong to darkness and night.

 6 So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded.

 10 Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever.

 11 So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.

“These are the times that try men’s souls. The greatest tyrannies are always perpetuated in the name of the noblest causes” (Thomas Paine).

“It is when a people forget God, that tyrants forge their chains” (Patrick Henry).

Could it be that even the most remarkable civilizations are “always one generation away from paganism” (Roger Ellsworth)?

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© Dr. H 2024

Very dry bones ∙∙

Very dry bones ∙∙

He led me all around among the bones that covered the valley floor. They were scattered everywhere across the ground, and they were very dry. – Ezekiel 37:2

Romans 4:17-21

 17 Abraham believed in the God who brings the dead back to life and creates new things from nothing.

 18 Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping – believing that he would become the father of many nations. For God had said to him, “That’s how many descendants you will have!”

 19 And Abraham’s faith did not weaken, even though, at about 100 years of age, he figured his body was as good as dead – and so was Sarah’s womb.

 20 Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this, he brought glory to God.

 21 He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises.

The Battle of Gettysburg was fought from July 1 to July 3, 1863. It was the bloodiest engagement of the American Civil War. There was a tremendous loss of life. The death toll was staggering, with a total of 165,620 soldiers participating in the battle: 93,921 from the Union and 71,699 from the Confederate side. The estimated casualties summed up to 51,112: Union – 23,049 (3,155 killed, 14,529 wounded); Confederate – 28,063 (3,903 killed, 18,735 wounded).

On July 4, 1863, following the cessation of hostilities, a grisly description of the devastation on the Gettysburg battlefield was documented. Parties were dispatched to inter the fallen soldiers, both Union and Confederate, wherever they had dropped. The sight of bodies scattered everywhere was shocking, with approximately 7,058 soldiers left on the field. The task was grim, and the air was heavy with the smell of decay. Despite the horror, the American soldiers who perished at Gettysburg were more fortunate than the deceased soldiers from the army of Israel described in Ezekiel’s vision of the valley of dry bones (Ezekiel 37:11).

Ezekiel 37:1-2

 1 The LORD took hold of me, and the Spirit of the LORD carried me away to a valley filled with bones.

 2 He led me all around among the bones that covered the valley floor. They were scattered everywhere across the ground, and they were very dry.

The vision of the valley of the dry bones is the scene of the aftermath of a horrific and ghastly battle. Why were the bones strewn about in the valley and very dry? There were no burials! All that was left were the skeletons of the dead. The corpses had long ago decomposed.

But there’s more. Matthew Henry wrote his commentary 300 years ago, between 1687 and 1712 AD. He realized that the dry bones represented the hopeless condition of the Jewish people. “The Jews in Babylon were like those dead and dry bones, unlikely ever to come together, to be so much as a skeleton, less likely to be formed into a body, and least of all to be a living body” (Matthew Henry).

But Ezekiel’s story does not end with despair, dismal death, disarticulation, and destruction. What seems utterly hopeless becomes a promise of ultimate restoration.

REFLECT & PRAY

Why do we find ourselves in hopeless situations, far outside our comfort zone? The Father employs many strategies to develop His children. Overcoming impossible situations is but one of them. The improbable, if not impossible, circumstances of life develop great faith. Great faith prepares His children to fulfill the Father’s dreams and plans for their lives.

Father, thank You for bringing hope and encouragement where there is despair and hopelessness. Father, thank You for creating a life where there is death.

INSIGHT

Imagine this hypothetical situation. Suppose the Father whisked you away in a vision and took you to a graveyard. All around, you see tombstones, well-maintained graves, an occasional tree, and flowers left in memory of loved ones. The Father asks you, what do you think? Can these people come back to life again?

What an incredible question amidst a sea of gravestones. It seems surreal. Things like that just don’t happen. If we were there, we might’ve been tempted to be somewhat disrespectful and ask, “Are You kidding me?”

That’s pretty much what happened. The Spirit of the Lord asks Ezekiel an astonishing, seemingly preposterous question.

Ezekiel 37:3 “Son of man, can these bones become living people again?”

Ezekiel, the prophet, was wise and strong in faith. With great discernment, he deftly and respectfully put the ball back in the Father’s court. He recognized that the Father alone knew the correct answer; only He already knew the outcome.

Yet, Ezekiel also knew in His heart that if it could be done, only the Father could do it. For the Lord God Almighty, all things are possible. The Father “brings the dead back to life and who creates new things out of nothing” (Romans 4:17).

Ezekiel 37:3 “O Sovereign LORD,” I replied, “you alone know the answer to that.”

Indeed, the Sovereign LORD most certainly knows. But remarkably, He chose to include Ezekiel in the process of restoring life.

Ezekiel 37:4-10

 4 Then he said to me, “Speak a prophetic message to these bones and say, ‘Dry bones, listen to the word of the LORD!

 5 This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Look! I am going to put breath into you and make you live again!

 6 I will put flesh and muscles on you and cover you with skin. I will put breath into you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD.’”

 7 So I spoke this message, just as he told me. Suddenly, as I spoke, there was a rattling noise all across the valley. The bones of each body came together and attached themselves as complete skeletons.

 8 Then as I watched, muscles and flesh formed over the bones. Then skin formed to cover their bodies, but they still had no breath in them.

 9 Then he said to me, “Speak a prophetic message to the winds, son of man. Speak a prophetic message and say, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Come, O breath, from the four winds! Breathe into these dead bodies so they may live again.’”

 10 So I spoke the message as he commanded me, and breath came into their bodies. They all came to life and stood up on their feet – a great army.

Did the Father need Ezekiel’s help? Of course not. But this was an opportunity for Ezekiel to grow mighty in spirit.

When remarkable things happen, good or bad, how frequently do we ask why? Often, we don’t get an answer. However, in this situation, the Father graciously explained to Ezekiel what the vision was all about.

The dead, disarticulated, dry bones represent the Jewish nation. Israel and Judah were divided for some 300 years. Untold numbers of them had died. Those who remain alive are in exile, far from home. For all practical appearances, they are a doomed, dispersed, dead nation without hope. They are like bleached bones on a battlefield. They said to themselves, “Our nation is finished.”

How often do we ask why when extraordinary events transpire, whether for good or ill? Many times, we receive no response. But in this instance, the Father kindly explained the meaning behind the vision to Ezekiel.

The lifeless, disarticulated, dry bones symbolize the Jewish nation. Israel and Judah had been split for some 300 years. Countless lives were lost. Those who survived are exiled, far from their homeland. They seem like a doomed, scattered, dead nation devoid of hope. They resemble bleached bones on a battlefield, whispering, “Our nation is finished.”

But they are far from done! It was prophesied that they would rise again and return to their land. This restoration would occur in two phases. The initial part would be physical restoration. All the scattered bones would reunite, though lifeless. Then, they would undergo spiritual generation in a miraculous turn of events. The Father will live within their hearts.

Ezekiel 37:13 O my people, you will know that I am the LORD. They will once again realize and believe that their God is God.

When challenging or even impossible things occur, how do we look at them? Do we react? Do we view them through the lens of faith or the lens of skepticism and disbelief? Is our viewpoint confined to disjointed, hopeless skeletons? Or do we envision a dynamic, potent, living army led by the LORD of Heaven’s Armies?

Psalms 27:13 I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living.

Genesis 18:14 Is anything too difficult for the Lord?

Romans 4:21 God is able to do whatever he promises.

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© Dr. H 2024

First Responder ∙∙

First Responder ∙∙

I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. incline your ear to me and hear my prayer. – Psalms 17:6

Psalms 46:1-2

 1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in time of need.

 2 Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea.

Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a psychological and motivational construct that outlines five stages of human needs. These five stages encompass physiological, safety, love and belonging, esteem, and self-actualization needs. According to this theory, individuals are driven to meet these needs in a sequential order, starting with the fundamental physiological requirements.

The innate human need for safety is undeniable. It is part of our human DNA. People yearn for a safe and secure hiding place or refuge. This desire has been amplified during the 21st century due to the emergence of “social distancing” and “shelter in place” precautions.

David echoed this need for safety. However, David didn’t seek physical shelter. Instead, his refuge was found in his faith in his Father God, the King of the universe. David’s story, as narrated in the Scriptures, is one of continual threats and danger. He was a hunted man. He was persistently stalked by Saul, leading to years of evasion. He found himself continually on the run, fleeing from Saul. However, David’s prayers revealed his close and intimate relationship with the Father and his unwavering trust in Him. From an early age, David understood that genuine safety could only be found in the compassionate embrace of his Father God.

Psalms 17:8 Guard me as the apple of the eye; Hide me in the shadow of Your wings.

Every child of the King has access to safety and security. Confidence and peace are only moments away when we pray and reflect on the Father’s care for us and His readiness to provide assistance. The intimate bond David shared with the Father and the assurance it provided him is available to every child of the King.

Hebrews 13:5 God has said, “I will never leave you. I will never abandon you.”

Our Father’s precious promises serve as a source of unwavering trust and confidence in Him every day. He is our “safe place.” He earnestly and patiently desires that the children of the King acknowledge and come to Him. The Father delights in all those who put their trust in Him. He views each one of His children as extraordinarily precious, deserving of His unique affection. They experience both protection and shelter in His loving and compassionate presence (Stanley).

REFLECT & PRAY

Safety is not the absence of danger but the presence of God.

Father thank You for being our “safe place.” Sometimes, it seems our world and the peril it brings into our lives are threatening, overwhelming, and closing in. Yet You provide supernatural peace, serenity, assistance, and the strength to get us through.

INSIGHT

Psalms 46:1-2

 1 God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.

 2 So we will not fear when earthquakes come, and the mountains crumble into the sea.

The Psalms frequently emerge from a backdrop of personal despair, fear, frustration, and a sense of hopelessness. Individuals like David consistently bring their day-to-day practical issues to the Father through prayer and worship, seeking His assistance and intervention at all times.

Psalms 46:1 was the inspiration for Martin Luther’s hymn, “A Mighty Fortress is our God.” The Father is always ready to help, even in our challenging and tumultuous times, He never fails to support us. He always has our back. As Helen Keller wisely said, “Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. The fearful are caught as often as the bold.”

When the children of the Father seek refuge in Him, they discover an inner resilience and the courage to confront whatever comes their way.

In our interconnected world of the 21st century, we are constantly bombarded with global upheavals, catastrophes, and disasters. This includes severe weather events, the emergence of famines, wars, epidemics, and pandemics.

In the absence of modern technology, the ancient world encountered similar disasters without any forewarning. The earth itself and the mountains are the most steadfast and invincible elements of their world (Kidner). Yet they could be shaken and tossed about as if they were mere pebbles due to violent earthquakes. People were always at risk of extreme weather conditions, droughts, locust infestations, military invasions, local floods, and fierce storms.

During such challenging times, we can be confident and unafraid. He is our strength. But what does that mean exactly? He is there for each child of the King. His presence keeps us resilient, potent, secure, and courageous.

He is our refuge, our fortress. What does that imply? “God is the one who protects us” or “God is the one who shelters us” (UBS). The Hebrew noun translated as refuge is machaseh. A refuge is a fortress, often built at high elevations for protection. It is derived from the Hebrew verb chacah, which means to be safe or to seek refuge. The Father is the one who takes care of us and protects us from danger (UBS).

“He is first like a strong fortress into which a man may flee and be absolutely safe; He is at the same time an unfailing source of strength, enabling one to cope” (Leupold).

But there is more. The Father is not merely our fortress and able to help; he is eager to do so. We have only to invite Him.

Psalms 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

The phrase very present translates a maxim meaning “very accessible”; the verb means “be present, near.” He is “ever-present.” He is available and ready to be found and depended upon. He is not absent, distant, aloof, missing, or in hiding. And He is adequate for every situation. He is always on our side. And He is also by our side.

“Much promised help from the world is worthless when trouble comes, but that is when God shines and performs so faithfully” (Butler). He is the ultimate “First Responder.” He runs toward danger.

There might be days when we feel as though our world is crumbling, and everything we rely on seems to be cast into the sea. However, if we place our trust in God, there is no reason to fear because we have a sanctuary that remains unshaken. (Stanley)

Furthermore, Hebrew, unlike other languages, doesn’t use bold, italics, or underlines for emphasis. Instead, Hebrew employs “word order” to highlight importance. Often, the most significant word in a sentence is positioned at the beginning. Psalms 46 starts with the word Elohim, “God.” This is designed to shift our focus towards the Father. He is of utmost importance. Our needs, circumstances, and difficulties are a distant second.

When times are tough, we reach out to the Father. However, our reliance on Him should not be occasional but constant. Our dependency on Him should become our norm.

¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 12-06-22

© Dr. H 2023

Glorify your Son ∙

Glorify your Son ∙

I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. – John 17:4

John 17:1-5

 1 Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so he can give glory back to you.

 2 For you have given him authority over everyone. He gives eternal life to each one you have given him.

 3 And this is eternal life – to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth.

 5 Now, Father, bring me into the glory we shared before the world began.

John 17:20-23

 20 I am praying for these disciples and all who will ever believe in me through their message.

 22 I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one.

 24 Father, I want these whom you have given me to be with me where I am. Then they can see all the glory you gave me because you loved me even before the world began!

Howard Carter, a British archaeologist, embarked on a quest to uncover the tombs of ancient Egyptian rulers. When he arrived in Egypt in 1891, most of these historical burial sites had already been discovered, and many had been looted throughout the centuries. But Carter, with his exceptional excavation skills, was ready for the challenge. In the early 1900s, his hard work paid off when he unearthed the tombs of Queen Hatshepsut and King Thutmose IV.

In 1907, Lord Carnarvon, an avid collector of antiquities, engaged Carter to oversee excavations in the Valley of the Kings. Carter’s primary goal was to find the tomb of the relatively unknown King Tutankhamun. On November 4, 1922, Carter stumbled upon a stairway that led to the tomb’s portal. He promptly informed Lord Carnarvon, who hurriedly traveled to Egypt. On November 23, 1922, they penetrated a mud-brick door, revealing a passage to Tutankhamun’s tomb.

There were signs that grave robbers had entered the tomb at some point, causing their hearts to sink with the dreadful expectation of another pillaged tomb.

However, on November 26, 1922, their spirits lifted as they breached another door leading to the outer chamber of Tutankhamun’s tomb. Illuminated only by the flickering flame of a candle, Howard Carter peered into the chamber. Behind him, Lord Carnarvon asked, “Can you see anything?” Carter answered, “Yes, wonderful things.”

This moment marked the first time in over 3,300 years that anyone had entered King Tutankhamun’s tomb. The sealed burial chambers held the king’s gold coffin, mummy, and a staggering collection of thousands of magnificent, priceless artifacts. The discovery of King Tut’s tomb remains one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of all time.

Can anything be more glorious? Yes indeed. The most glorious event of all human history concerns the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. How can suffering and death be glorious?

John 17:4-5

 4 I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do.

 5 Now, Father, bring me into the glory we shared before the world began.

What is the glory for which Lord Jesus Christ prays?  For many, it’s an enigmatic treasure yet to be uncovered. To unearth this profound wisdom requires a diligent pursuit and excavation of its concealed marvels, which merely scratches the surface.

The quest begins with a better understanding of the etymology of the Greek word translated as glory.

The Greek word for glory is doxa, which is the source of the English word doxology. It is derived from the Greek verb dokeo. The verb means to think, suppose, form an opinion, acknowledge, or recognize. Dokeo is the Greek verb used when people formulate human opinions or perspectives. Human opinions or perspectives are mutable. They change and shift. They often flip-flop and may be based on inaccuracies or misinterpretation of data (Zodhiates).

Human opinion is the antithesis of the Father’s “opinion.” They are diametrically opposed. The Father’s words and thoughts are not mere opinions. Instead, they are facts; they are absolute truth. His truth contrasts with human truth by 180°. The Father’s truth never varies; it is changeless and absolute. It cannot be synthesized or compromised. “God’s opinion marks the true value of things as they appear to the eternal mind, and God’s favorable opinion is true glory” (Zodhiates). His opinion discloses with certainty how things really are and are to be understood.

Human opinion has a significant downside. It frequently obstructs one’s capacity to discover and comprehend the Father’s truth.

John 5:44 How can you believe when you receive glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God? (ESV)

John 5:44 No wonder you can’t believe! For you gladly honor each other, but you don’t care about the honor that comes from the one who alone is God (NLT).

REFLECT & PRAY

The Father gives eternal life to every child of the King, sharing His glory with them through the Lord Jesus Christ.

Father Your glory is unfathomable in our earthly existence. Assist us in concentrating on the glory that genuinely matters – Your glory. And let us disregard the fleeting, ephemeral, terrestrial glory of created beings.

INSIGHT

Attempting to comprehend the term glory is like trying to get your arms around the English word trunk. A trunk can denote a myriad of different things: a part of a tree, an elephant’s appendage, a car’s storage compartment, a piece of luggage, and so on. Similarly, glory possesses numerous interpretations. Some ways glory is employed in the New Testament can be pretty baffling. Their mysteries are only unraveled through reflection and the illuminating work of the Holy Spirit.

Glory is the recognition of and honor due an individual. Glory is also the absolute essence of the Father. He is worthy of honor and worship. Glory is something that can be observed. The Father allows His glory to be seen (Exodus 33:18-23). It manifests as bright, shining light, brilliance, or splendor. As such, it catches the eye, attracts attention, or elicits recognition and acknowledgment.

John 13:31 The time has come for the Son of Man to be glorified, and God will be glorified because of him.

The Lord Jesus Christ asserts that His crucifixion and resurrection will result in His glorification. How can this be? These events prove that the Lord Jesus Christ is the prophesied Messiah, the Redeemer of the world, the Son of God, and indeed God in the flesh. The Father perceives the death of the Lord Jesus Christ not as a downfall but as a monumental triumph. The plan of redemption required the sacrifice of His life. The Lord Jesus Christ sacrificed Himself and died for the sins of the human race. Christ’s resurrection validated that the Father accepted His sacrifice as a complete payment (Romans 1:4).

Those unfamiliar with the Father’s plan find the death of the Lord Jesus Christ a gruesome waste of a good man’s life. However, His sacrifice is eternally celebrated in heaven.

The Father and the Son can share glory with the children of the King. However, we can merely acknowledge the glory of the Father and the Son. When the Father bestows His glory upon us, He permits us to partake in His glory. But when we glorify the Father, we don’t contribute anything to Him; instead, we recognize, honor, praise, or worship Him for Who and what He is.

When we glorify the Father, we recognize Who He is in His unchanging essence.

¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 9-29-1

© Dr. H 2024