Bread from heaven ∙

Bread from heaven ∙

In the morning you shall be filled with bread, and you shall know that I am the LORD your God. – Exodus 16:12

Exodus 16:13-15

 13 So it came about . . . In the morning there was a layer of dew around the camp.

 14 When the layer of dew evaporated, behold, on the surface of the wilderness there was a fine flake-like thing, fine as the frost on the ground.

 15 When the sons of Israel saw it, they said to one another, “What is it?” For they did not know what it was. And Moses said to them, “It is the bread which the LORD has given you to eat.”

“The difference between men and boys is the price of their toys” (Malcolm S. Forbes).

So often, people are not satisfied with what they have. It seems that they always want something else, something more. When does this begin? It seems to set in at a very young age. Commonly, a child is not satisfied with their toys for very long. They often want something different, particularly what somebody else has. The point is that whatever we have is never enough.

So it was with the children of Israel in the wilderness. They had just witnessed ten of the greatest miracles of the Old Testament. That was soon followed by the amazing miracle of the opening of the Red Sea, allowing them to escape Pharaoh’s army while destroying it simultaneously. They had been set free and given liberty from their taskmasters. They were no longer slaves to the Egyptians. Were they grateful? Did they give thanks and praise to the Father? No! They complained and were not satisfied with what they had.

Exodus 16:2-3

 2 The whole community of Israel complained about Moses and Aaron.

 3 “If only the LORD had killed us back in Egypt,” they moaned. “There we sat around pots filled with meat and ate all the bread we wanted. But now you have brought us into this wilderness to starve us all to death.”

Whatever gratitude they had did not last long. Rather than being thankful for what they had, they focused on what they did not have. It seems incredulous. Until we do a little introspection, examine our own hearts, and recognize we do the same thing.

The Father graciously gave them what they asked for.

Exodus 16:4 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Look, I’m going to rain down food from heaven for you. Each day the people can go out and pick up as much food as they need for that day.”

Exodus 16:14-15

 14 When the layer of dew evaporated, behold, on the surface of the wilderness there was a fine flake-like thing, fine as the frost on the ground.

 15 When the sons of Israel saw it, they said to one another, “What is it?” For they did not know what it was. And Moses said to them, “It is the bread which the LORD has given you to eat.

The Father has a sense of humor that bubbles to the surface now and then. He is delightfully playful numerous times. As HE observes the people walking about questioning, wondering what they see, they keep asking, “What is this, please?” That is, “Ma-na, ma-na, Ma-na”? He simply says that is what you will call it – Manna.

Manna was the bread of heaven. It was a supernatural provision that lasted for 40 years. But it was much more. It was a prophecy, a picture that one day, the Father would provide a far more wonderful and satisfying bread of heaven.

Deuteronomy 8:3 Yes, he humbled you by letting you go hungry and then feeding you with manna, a food previously unknown to you and your ancestors. He did it to teach you that people do not live by bread alone; rather, we live by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.

How can we live by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord?

REFLECT & PRAY

“When Jesus called Himself ‘The Living Bread,’ He was not claiming to be exactly like the manna. He was claiming to be even greater!” (Wiersbe)!

Father thank You for providing the True Bread of Heaven, your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Thank You for drawing each child of the King to the Lord Jesus Christ.

INSIGHT

In John 6, an exchange ensues between the Jewish religious leaders and the Lord Jesus Christ. Ultimately, the Lord Jesus Christ claims to be sent by the Father as the true bread which comes out of heaven.

He tells the crowd that the Father wants them to believe in the One He sent. The crowd responds. They challenge Him. Since He made such extraordinary claims, they ask to show us a sign that we would believe in You.

Speaking of bread, it brings to mind when the Father provided the heavenly bread, manna, through Moses.

John 6:35 Jesus replied, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.

They began to murmur. Unified consensus eluded. They could not fully agree because they knew He was Joseph and Mary’s son. How can he say He came from heaven? How can he make such a claim?

Reacting to these doubts, the Lord Jesus Christ makes even bolder statements. Some have thought there is a suggestion of cannibalism.

But the mystery of this passage is found within it. When understood, it explains itself, and the secret is resolved.

John 6:53-58

 53 So Jesus said again, “I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you cannot have eternal life within you.”

 54 “But anyone who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise that person at the last day.”

 55 “For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink.”

 58 “I am the true bread that came down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will not die as your ancestors did even though they ate the manna but will live forever.”

This discussion revolves around understanding and embracing the true bread of heaven. There’s no physical bread here, only the presence of Lord Jesus Christ. He does not intend for them to eat Him or drink His blood.

John 6:35 Jesus replied, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”

To cease to be hungry, to eat is to come to Him. To cease to be thirsty, to drink is to believe in Him.

¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 6-16-1

© Dr. H 2023

Don’t get sidetracked ∙∙

Don’t get sidetracked ∙∙

Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil. – Proverbs 4:27

Jeremiah 15:19 If you return to me, I will restore you so you can continue to serve me. If you speak good words rather than worthless ones, you will be my spokesman. You must influence them; do not let them influence you!

Getting sidetracked is a universal occurrence that can affect anyone. Our attention diverts from the primary task or objective, often toward matters of lesser significance. Consequently, our intended accomplishments are left incomplete.

Our original intentions and aspirations tend to fall by the wayside. We lose focus. We get off the main highway and begin to follow bunny trails. Frequently, we remain oblivious to this process as it unfolds. Recognizing the shift that has occurred takes time, leaving us slightly bewildered. This state of confusion can easily give rise to feelings of frustration and annoyance.

As we progress in age, these instances of diversion seem to become more commonplace. For example, we might enter a room only to forget momentarily why we did. But be of good cheer; forgetting a few things is not a sign of early-onset dementia. But if it’s ever happened to you, it sometimes feels like it.

Like the United States Marines, the Father is looking for a few good men and women. During Old Testament times, there was a special subset among the children of the King: His servants, the prophets. The Father’s prophets were His representatives, His emissaries. They were often sent to deliver a message. They could not be easily deferred. They did not back down or get sidetracked. They remained resolute in steadfast.

The Father explained this to Jeremiah simply and succinctly as a part of his prophetic commission.

Jeremiah 15:19 “If you return to me, I will restore you so you can continue to serve me. If you speak good words rather than worthless ones, you will be my spokesman. You must influence them; do not let them influence you!

The book of Proverbs is full of Solomon’s great wisdom. It was parsimoniously summarized in Proverbs 4.

Proverbs 4:23-27

 23 Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.

 25 Look straight ahead and fix your eyes on what lies before you.

 26 Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path.

 27 Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil.

REFLECT & PRAY

The Father uses distractions to urge us into a deeper relationship with Him.

Father it is so easy to be sidetracked and get off course. Help me to respond better to the vicissitudes of everyday life. Help me not to be discouraged by the frustrations and disappointments I encounter.

INSIGHT

To avoid being sidetracked, developing the skill of focused concentration is essential. It should be a top priority. Staying on task requires discipline and practice. Learning to focus and stay focused is a science and art that can be learned. How can we diminish getting sidetracked? By learning to deal with distractions effectively. This often leads to improved focus and increased effectiveness. Here are a few suggestions:

Avoid panic

Confusion and the feeling of losing control can lead to panic. There is often a lot of blaming and self-condemnation. Negative emotions only make matters worse. On the contrary, positive feelings and thoughts yield contrasting outcomes.

What can be done? How do we avoid a downward negative spiral? For children of the King, reading and meditating on the Scriptures can be quite calming to the spirit and soothing to the soul. Revisiting the Father’s promises in the face of our irritations can break the power of our errant propensities. As we turn irritations, frustrations, and burdens over to the Father, He assumes responsibility for our well-being.

Psalms 27:13 Where would I be if I did not believe I would experience the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living?

Slow down

Distractions are always crouching at the door: conflicting thoughts, uncontrollable emotions, bothersome sounds, offenses, slights, or minor interruptions.

What can we do? So, how can we combat these distractions? To safeguard our focus from being snatched away, it’s essential to take control. We’re presented with two primary choices: disregard the distraction or set a mental placeholder and deal with the distraction. Once the distraction is handled, we can then seamlessly realign our focus.

Psalms 66:9 Our lives are in his hands, and he keeps our feet from stumbling.

Take a break

There are moments when we just run out of gas mentally, and our focus and concentration diminish, causing our focus and concentration to wane. During these periods, we can shift our attention to a temporary new activity, granting our mind a much-needed break. Engaging in physical activity frequently facilitates a reset. A fascinating phenomenon occurs when we intentionally redirect our focus to another task – our brain continues its problem-solving efforts on an unconscious level. As a result, we often find ourselves inundated with novel ideas and potential solutions upon returning to the original challenge.

Psalms 119:67 I used to wander off until you disciplined me, but now I closely follow your word.

God uses discipline, not as a whip to force us in line, but as a messenger to urge us back into a safe place. Correction is a bridge to a deeper relationship with God (Stanley).

Jeremiah 15:19 If you extract the precious from the worthless, you will become My spokesman.

The prophets had a special responsibility to live a life without compromise. This commitment extended to their thoughts and expressions. What really mattered? The precious! They needed to develop the skill of learning to extract the precious from the worthless. To accurately represent the Father and be His spokesman, literally His mouth, they had to live by a higher standard. They could not entertain worthless ideas and speak meaningless words.

The same is true for any child of the King. How well are you doing at extracting the precious from the worthless?

¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 6-15-1

© Dr. H 2023

A family for the lonely ∙

A family for the lonely ∙

I hold you by your right hand – I, the LORD your God. And I say to you, Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you. – Isaiah 41:13

Psalms 68:4-6

 4 Sing praises to God and to his name! Sing loud praises to him who rides the clouds. His name is the LORD – rejoice in his presence!

 5 Father to the fatherless, defender of widows – this is God, whose dwelling is holy.

 6 God places the lonely in families; he sets the prisoners free and gives them joy. But he makes the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land.

There is an epidemic of loneliness raging across America. In the decade preceding the COVID-19 epidemic, nearly 30% of older Americans lived alone. Some 40% said they sometimes or always felt their social relationships were not meaningful, and 20% said they felt lonely or socially isolated.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the problem. A report by Harvard University researchers found that 36% of Americans are experiencing “serious loneliness,” and some groups, such as young adults and mothers with small children, are especially isolated (Harvard GSE Report, February 2021).

What is loneliness? Loneliness is linked to the quality of one’s relationships. “Social science researchers define loneliness as the emotional state created when people have fewer social contacts and meaningful relationships than they would like – relationships that make them feel known and understood. Essentially, if you feel lonely, you are lonely” (The Week, January 6, 2019).

“Loneliness is the state of distress or discomfort that results when one perceives a gap between one’s desires for social connection and actual experiences of it. Even some people who are surrounded by others throughout the day – or are in a long-lasting marriage – still experience deep and pervasive loneliness” (Psychology Today).

Feelings of isolation, emptiness, and a lack of meaningful connections with others characterize loneliness. It can occur regardless of the number of people around a person and affects individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Loneliness can have both short-term and long-term effects on mental and physical well-being.

A lack of social connectedness is, for many, very painful. Human beings made in the image of the Father have an innate desire to establish connections.

The Father delights in taking tender care of the children of the King. The Father crafted abundant provisions to address the challenges of solitude and seclusion. “God’s majesty never implies his remoteness from those who look to him; it implies instead his exhaustive attention to detail, and his inexhaustible ability to care for his faithful” (ESV notes).

REFLECT & PRAY

“Two possibilities exist: either we are alone in the Universe or we are not. Both are equally terrifying” (Arthur C. Clarke).

Father thank You for preparing a family, a home for each lonely child of the King. You know exactly who and what we need.

INSIGHT

The Father protects those who are weakest. He is a father to the fatherless (orphans) and an advocate, defender of the widows, protector of the unfortunate, and dispossessed. As a group, orphans and widows are defenseless. They have no one to protect them. Therefore, the Father personally assumes the role of their protector and guardian.

Deuteronomy 10:18 He ensures that orphans and widows receive justice.

Psalms 68:5 He is a father to the fatherless and an advocate for widows.

But the Father is more than a protector, He emerges as a formidable warrior, championing the plight of the underprivileged and oppressed. In the days of the old West, He might have been likened to a lawman, staunchly upholding justice. He defends those who are the least of the least in society.

As children of the King consider the mighty works of their warrior King, the psalmist invites them to sing, to praise, and make music to His name.

Psalms 68:4 Sing to God! Sing praises to his name! Exalt the one who rides on the clouds! For the LORD is his name! Rejoice before him!

He is depicted as one who “rides on the sky” or “rides in the clouds.” It is intended as “a poetic description of God’s exalted majesty” (Ross).

This word picture borrows an epitaph of the culture of the day. The mythological storm god Baal was called “the one who rides on the clouds.” This expresses a common intercultural theme of the time. Much like in 21st-century Western culture, almost everyone knows what the Super Bowl is or who Mr. Spock was. And we have common expressions we use, “yada, yada, yada,” “have a nice day,” or “be safe.” “This theme of the Divine Warrior is always closely associated with God’s justice and support for the least of society” (NICOT).

The Father does something delightful and marvelous for those who are alone or desolate. He finds and provides a place for them, a home, a family.  The Hebrew word translated as home or family is bayit. Bayit is literally a house, dwelling, building, and thus family or household.

God makes a home for the lonely (he places the lonely in families). – Psalms 68:6

There is a place for each child of the King, a family, a home on earth, and in heaven for all eternity. How marvelous and beautiful.

John 14:2 There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, I would have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you.

Children of the King will be with the Father for all eternity. The Father is with each child of the King now and forever.

Matthew 28:20 I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

The Lord Jesus Christ made an awe-inspiring promise that He would remain with His followers throughout all their days until the conclusion of the age. His words aren’t a mere promise of future presence; they emphatically declare, “I am with you,” a resounding affirmation of his unwavering presence. This promise holds the certainty of assurance and the timeless perspective, transcending the confines of here and there. When did this begin? His companionship started when we accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord. It extends indefinitely, reaching even to the end of existence itself.

Are you feeling lonely?

Isaiah 61:1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is upon me, for the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed.

Somewhere (Barbra Streisand)

There’s a place for us Somewhere a place for us

Peace and quiet and open air Wait for us somewhere

There’s a time for us Someday a time for us

Time together with time to spare

Time to learn And time to care

Someday Somewhere

We’ll find a new way of living We’ll find there’s a way of forgiving

Somewhere There’s a place for us (a place for us) Somewhere there is a place for us

Hold my hand, and we’re halfway there Hold my hand, and I’ll take you there

Someday, someday, somewhere, somewhere

We’ll find a new way of living We’ll find there’s a way of forgiving

Somewhere There’s a place for us A time and a place for us.

¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 6-10-1

© Dr. H 2023

What a Friend

What a Friend

A real friend sticks closer than a brother. – Proverbs 18:24

John 15:15 I no longer call you slaves because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me.

Joseph Medlicott Scriven (1819-1886) was an Irish-born Canadian poet. He was educated at Trinity College in Dublin. He committed his life to serving the Lord through his Plymouth Brethren faith.

The Father began in earnest Scriven’s spiritual preparation. Part of his training was learning to overcome horrendous losses. He was engaged to be married. The night before the wedding, his fiancée accidentally drowned. A few years later, he fell in love again and was due to be married, but his second fiancée got pneumonia and died.

Scriven received news that his mother was very ill. The comfort her, he wrote a poem called “Pray Without Ceasing.” It was later set to music and renamed: “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.”

What is a Friend?

A friend is someone with whom you share a mutual bond of affection, understanding, and trust. Friends connect on a personal and often emotional level. Friendships are built on respect, empathy, and genuine care for each other’s well-being.

Friendships can be crucial to our emotional well-being, providing companionship, a support network, and a sense of belonging. Relationships require care, effort, and time. Key characteristics of a friend include:

Trust: Friends can be counted on to keep your confidence and support you in need. There’s a sense of reliability and dependability in a true friendship.

Mutual Understanding: Friends often share similar values, interests, and experiences. They understand each other’s perspectives and can communicate openly and honestly.

Empathy: Friends are sensitive to each other’s feelings and are willing to listen, provide comfort, and offer advice when needed.

Support: Friends provide encouragement and assistance in both good and bad times.

Acceptance: Friends accept each other for who they are without condemnation or judgment.

Reciprocity: Healthy friendships involve a give-and-take dynamic.

Laughter and Enjoyment: Friends often have fun together, sharing laughs, enjoying activities, and creating positive memories.

Communication: Open and effective communication is essential in maintaining a solid friendship. Thoughts and feelings are honestly shared, and conflicts are resolved constructively.

Respect: Friends respect each other’s boundaries, opinions, and differences. Respect is a cornerstone of any meaningful relationship.

Forgiveness: through acts of kindness, patience, and empathy, friends maintain closeness and intimacy. Friends forgive one another, thus avoiding grudges and negative emotions.

REFLECT & PRAY

What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry Everything to God in prayer!

Father you have chosen to be my friend, my BFF. My mind and heart can hardly take it in. Thank You for loving me and wanting me close to Your heart.

INSIGHT

The Father is loving and kind and makes an excellent friend. Friendship begins with Him. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit interact with one another in perfect love. The heart of God reaches out in friendship to the world.

All children of the King have received a tremendous gift because of the Lord Jesus Christ. We are now friends with the living God, the creator of the universe, the Lord of lords, and the King of Kings. He is truly our BFF!

John 15:15 I no longer call you slaves because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me.

In the Old Testament era, being called a “servant of the Lord.” That privilege did not belong to just anybody. The prophets were the Lord’s servants (Jeremiah 35:15). But to become a friend of God was an even higher honor.

Exodus 33:11 The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend.

Nobody else could get that close. Moses’ privilege was unparalleled.

Yet, because of the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, each child of the King has been drawn into a close friendship with God. He is saying to every child of the King, “Let’s be friends.” The Father has befriended us. We become part of His Forever Family.

What is it like to have God as your friend?

Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

A friend is always faithful, especially in times of disappointment, crisis, or misfortune. The hallmark of a true friend is unwavering loyalty. “The contrast is between casual friends on the one hand and a close friend on the other; it is a contrast between the appearance of friendship and real friendship” (Bland).

In Hebrew, the word translated as friend is rea. Reacan be translated as friend, neighbor, darling, comrade, or companion. A true friend is a companion whose love and affection surpass that of a sibling or a fair-weather friend who is supportive only when it is easy or convenient. A brother is stuck with you. But a friend chooses you.  

Proverbs 27:6 Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy.

A real friend is also honest and straightforward. They confront and challenge out of love and concern. “The wounds (reproofs) of a friend are faithful (expressive of loyalty and solidarity) and are to be carefully distinguished from the profuse (possibly: deceptive) kisses of an enemy” (Miller).

Proverbs 27:9 The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.

The Father has chosen to be friends with every child of the King. The Lord Jesus Christ was quite explicit when He revealed this incredible fact. 

John 15:15 I no longer call you slaves . . .. Now you are my friends,

Being a friend of the Lord Jesus Christ provides a deep and profound connection with Him. As we draw close, know, and follow Him, the Lord Jesus Christ offers unconditional love, wisdom, guidance, confidence, and hope.

How are your friendships shaping up? Have you embraced the concept of the Lord Jesus Christ as your Best Friend Forever? Can you fathom the journey of cultivating and nurturing the profound, continuously growing friendship He has offered? Just envisage the sheer wonder of having the Lord Jesus Christ as your BFF. What could be more magnificent and delightful friendship than that?

What a friend we have in Jesus

What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear!

What a privilege to carry Everything to God in prayer!

Oh, what peace we often forfeit, Oh, what needless pain we bear,

All because we do not carry Everything to God in prayer!

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?

We should never be discouraged. Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Can we find a friend so faithful, Who will all our sorrows share?

Jesus knows our every weakness; Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy-laden, Cumbered with a load of care?

Precious Savior, still our refuge Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer!

In His arms He’ll take and shield thee, Thou wilt find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised Thou wilt all our burdens bear;

May we ever, Lord, be bringing All to Thee in earnest prayer.

Soon in glory bright, unclouded, There will be no need for prayer

Rapture, praise, and endless worship Will be our sweet portion there.

¯\_(ツ)_/¯

© Dr. H 2023

Grumbling complainers ∙

Grumbling complainers ∙

Just as Death and Destruction are never satisfied, so human desire is never satisfied.

 – Proverbs 27:20

1 Corinthians 10:6-13

 6 These things happened as a warning to us, so that we would not crave evil things as they did,

 7 or worship idols as some of them did. As the Scriptures say, “The people celebrated with feasting and drinking, and they indulged in pagan revelry.”

 9 Nor should we put Christ to the test, as some of them did and then died from snakebites.

 10 And don’t grumble as some of them did, and then were destroyed by the destroyer.

 11 These things happened to them as examples for us. They were written down to warn us who live at the end of the age.

 12 If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.

 13 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.

In 1976 the American movie, “Network” showed in movie theaters across the United States. “Network” received widespread critical acclaim. It was a commercial success and won four Academy Awards.

The decade of the 1970s was marked by significant challenges: frustration, depression, soaring inflation, and the Oil Crisis of 1973.

“Network” vividly portrays the deep-seated frustration and despair of those individuals who felt they have no recourse, remedy, or strategy. It embodies the intense emotions of disillusionment prevalent in modern life. Through the character of Howard Beale, a fictitious TV anchor played by Peter Finch, the film encapsulates this sentiment with his iconic outburst, “I’m as mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this anymore!” He urges viewers to voice their own frustrations by leaning out their windows and passionately declaring, “I’m as mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this anymore!”

The movie resonated with audiences, symbolizing a pivotal moment in American cultural history. Peter Finch’s portrayal was seminal. People were unshackled and began to “tell it like it is.”

While feelings of anger, resentment, and lashing out are nothing new. These sentiments trace back to ancient times, to the Garden of Eden. The Old Testament frequently highlights these emotions, mainly through stories of resentment and grumbling. Such narratives serve as lessons, urging us to make better decisions.

1 Corinthians 10:6-11

 6 Now these things happened as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they also craved.

 10 Nor grumble, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the destroyer.

 11 Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.

The Greek word translated as crave or desire is epithumeo. Epithumeo means to have a strong desire, a longing, or lust. Generally speaking, it is a neutral term for intense longing or craving. However, it most frequently takes on a pejorative sense and refers to an irregular and inordinate desire, appetite, lust, impure or worldly desires, or lewdness. Epithumeo can be thought of it as strong negative desires on steroids.

The Greek word rendered as grumble is gogguzo. Gogguzo means to grumble, complain, mutter, to express oneself in low tones of disapproval. It is an onomatopoetic word based upon a sound associated with what is named. English words such as growl, murmur, cuckoo, sizzle, and whippoorwill are examples of such.

Anyone can be disappointed or discouraged by circumstances. Many go to the next level and become agitated and extremely angry. But for the children of the King, there is a better way to respond.

We can learn the skill of taking every thought and emotion captive. Instead of being dictated by our feelings and thoughts, we have the power to govern them.

“Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goals” (Henry Ford).

REFLECT & PRAY

Paul likens human reasoning and debates to military strongholds or fortifications. Individuals construct these spiritual defenses to shield themselves and block an invasion from the knowledge of God.

Father so many times I’ve been deceived and misled. Help me to be wise and empower me to take every thought captive to the obedience of the Lord Jesus Christ.

INSIGHT

The true battleground lies in our minds and hearts: our thoughts, emotions, desires, and cravings. The adversary of our souls, along with his minions, is relentlessly working to sway and mislead the children of the King. They employ tactics of deception, falsehoods, ambiguity, doubt, and intense negative emotions like anger, fear, vengeance, and hatred to fulfill their aims.

The New Testament provides examples that showcase the enemy’s capacity to influence and determine outcomes.

One is recorded in the events of the night of the Last Supper in the Gospel of John. The enemy first influences Judas by placing the desire into his heart to betray the Lord Jesus Christ. Whatever his motives, Judas had betrayal in his heart. The enemy encouraged his thoughts and plans.

John 13:2 It was time for supper, and the devil had already prompted Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, putting it in his heart to betray Jesus.

Then Satan went to the next level and entered into Judas. Lord Jesus Christ was fully aware of the unfolding events.

John 13:27 Then after he had taken the morsel, Satan entered into him. Jesus said to him, “What you are going to do, do quickly.”

The rest is history. Judas was one of the twelve apostles. Yet he was the son of perdition (John 17:12). No one suspected what was coming except the Lord Jesus Christ Himself.

Could such an event befall a child of the King? Reflect on this: Judas wasn’t a child of the King. He opened his heart and mind and gave the enemy an opportunity. Paul cautions every child of the King against allowing such an opening. (Ephesians 4:27).

A second example is found in the Book of Acts.

Acts 5:3 Then Peter said, “Ananias, why have you let Satan fill your heart? You lied to the Holy Spirit, and you kept some of the money for yourself.”

Ananias dropped his defenses, permitting Satan to influence his choices and decisions. He allowed Satan to fill his heart. He chose poorly and suffered the consequences.

Is it possible for this to occur to a child of the King? Yes, it did. Indeed, it happened. Ananias was a child of the King. Yet he allowed Satan to take control and fill his heart.

How can we effectively deal with Satan’s attempt to influence and control us?

We learn the art and skill of subjecting every thought to the obedience of the Lord Jesus Christ. On our own, we cannot achieve this. However, the Father has equipped us with spiritual weapons to fight and win this spiritual battle for the mind.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5

 3 We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do.

 4 We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments.

 5 We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We take every thought captive to make it obey Christ.

“Stand up to your obstacles and do something about them. You will find that they haven’t half the strength you think they have” (Norman Vincent Peale).

The bottom line is that the Father has given us the ability to control our thoughts and emotions. The choice is ours.

What is the opposite of complaining and murmuring?

Expressing thankfulness and gratitude!

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© Dr. H 2023