Family-owned ∙∙∙

Family-owned ∙∙∙

The Father loves his Son and has put everything into his hands. – John 3:35

Romans 8:17 Since we are his children, we are his heirs. Together with Christ, we are heirs of God’s glory.

Titus 3:4-7

 4 But when God our Savior revealed his kindness and love,

 5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.

 6 He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior.

 7 Because of his grace he declared us righteous and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.

The Power of Employee Ownership

When a company is employee-owned, its employees hold a direct stake in its success. Not only do they share in the profits and benefits, but they also have a voice in the company’s operations and decisions. This structure often leads to a more engaged, motivated workforce that feels invested in the company’s future.

What Does Employee-Owned Mean?

Employee-owned businesses are those in which a significant portion of the company’s ownership (typically more than 30%) is held by the employees. One of the most common ways this is achieved is through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Under an ESOP, employees receive company stock as part of their compensation packages, giving them a tangible investment in the company’s success.

Benefits for Employees and the Company

Employee ownership does more than just reward workers; it also benefits the business itself. Employees who have a personal stake in the company’s outcomes tend to work harder, smarter, and with greater commitment to its goals. A sense of ownership fosters alignment between the company’s success and individual achievement.

Beyond internal morale, employee ownership can also enhance a company’s relationships with its customers, suppliers, and local communities. Companies that prioritize their workforce tend to be perceived as more ethical and reputable, which further contributes to their success.

The Kingdom of God as a Family Business

The kingdom of God is, in a sense, employee-owned. A better characterization might be family-owned. When people accept Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord, they become part of the Father’s Forever Family. We are de facto partakers and participants in “the family business.”

The Father’s business is entirely unique, focused on redemption. Unlike any earthly venture, He has a 100% market share in the redemption industry. He has carved out a distinct niche in the field. No one can effectively compete with Him in the work of redemption. His sole rival, the enemy of our souls, is in the anti-redemption business. He actively opposes redemption and does everything in his power to prevent anyone from being redeemed.

God’s Redemption Plan

The Father’s plan is stipulated in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”

Through the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ, the debt of all our sins has been paid in full. Every person on Earth is offered redemption, forgiveness, and an invitation into the Father’s Forever Family. This incredible gift means not only eternal life but also the joy of participating in the Father’s great work.

Adopted into the Father’s Forever Family

No one earns their place in this divine family. It is not something we deserve or achieve through our own efforts. Instead, it is a gift from God, rooted in His love and mercy. Barclay described it this way: “God, the great Father, in His amazing love and mercy, has taken lost, helpless, poverty-stricken, debt-laden sinners and adopted them into His own family, so that the debts are canceled, and the glory inherited.”

REFLECT & PRAY

Every child of the King is fully vested in the family business. We are not only heirs to untold spiritual wealth but also co-laborers in the Father’s work.

Father, as I reflect on the extraordinary gift of being adopted into Your Forever Family, I am overwhelmed. It is hard to comprehend how You, in Your infinite greatness, would want me to be part of Your Family. May I live in awe and gratitude every single day.

INSIGHT

The Father’s Business and the Son’s Ownership

The Father entrusted control and ownership of His eternal business to His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. As the one and only Son of the Father, Jesus is the ultimate heir and owner of all things. Yet, here lies the astounding and awe-inspiring truth: every child of God is a joint heir with Christ. This means that everything belonging to the Lord Jesus Christ is, in part, also ours. 

Our inheritance is not merely something to look forward to in the future; it is a present reality.

An Unlimited Spiritual Account

Pause for a moment and imagine being an heir to an unlimited account filled with eternal spiritual riches. This is the reality for every child of the King. Our inheritance is so vast that it cannot be quantified. To illustrate, it resembles a “Googleplex,” an incomprehensibly vast number that encompasses the endless riches of creation.

Although an infant cannot yet write checks or fully access their inheritance, we, as children of the King, already have access to this account. This spiritual treasure is available to us today through the Holy Spirit. As we walk with the Spirit, we can tap into this vast wealth, which empowers us with hope, confidence, energy, and vision.

Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” These resources enable us to live out the abundant life God intended.

A Present and Future Hope

Barclay beautifully put it this way, “Christians are men and women for whom the best is always still to be; they know that however wonderful life on earth with Christ may be, the life to come will be greater still. Christians are people who know the wonder of the forgiveness of past sins, the thrill of present life with Christ, and the hope of the greater life which is yet to come.”

The Boundless Riches of the Father

Just how rich is our Heavenly Father? He is rich beyond measure.  Not only does He own everything He has created, but He also possesses the power to create infinitely more. His wealth is limitless, and as His children, we share in this abundance.

What Must We Do to Partake?

What is required of us to share in these riches? Absolutely nothing. Once we are reborn into His Forever Family, the Father graciously bestows His boundless wealth upon us. We don’t earn it or work for it. Instead, it is freely given, welcoming us as heirs and active participants in His business of redemption and love.

Our only “obligation” is to place our trust in the completed work of the Lord Jesus Christ on the cross. From that moment, everything changes. As children of the King and co-heirs with the Lord Jesus Christ, we receive an inheritance that surpasses all earthly treasures.

An Eternal Treasure

The sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ made available to every child of the King an eternal treasure as their inheritance. When the Father sent the Lord Jesus Christ to die for us, it was “the greatest revelation of God’s kindness and love for humankind. God took the initiative. God does not save people because they behave righteously, but because He is merciful.” 

What an incredible privilege it is to be a child of the King! Being loved, redeemed, and given an eternal inheritance is a gift so great that it is beyond description.

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© Dr. H 2025

Are you willing to play? ∙∙

Are you willing to play? ∙∙

Come now, and let us reason together, says the LORD. – Isaiah 1:18

Can two walk together, except they are agreed? – Amos 3:3

Genesis 3:8-10

 8 They heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden.

 9 Then the LORD God called to the man, and said to him, “Where are you?”

 10 He said, “I heard the sound of You in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid myself.”

How Did Dogs Become Man’s Best Friend?

Scientists have uncovered a fascinating explanation for how wolves, the wild ancestors of today’s dogs, may have become man’s best friend. Wolves were likely the first animals domesticated by humans thousands of years ago, and their willingness to interact and cooperate with people might have been crucial. 

One notable behavior is their ability to play fetch. Researchers at Stockholm University discovered that some wolves don’t need training or selective breeding to chase and retrieve objects. In fact, a few young wolves naturally show a playful streak and respond positively to human interaction and direction.

The Science Behind Fetch

Behavioral ecologist Christina Hansen Wheat conducted tests on three litters of hand-raised, 8-week-old wolf pups. Among the ten wolf pups she observed, most showed little interest in retrieving balls. However, three pups from the same litter not only retrieved balls but also responded to encouragement from unfamiliar people. Remarkably, one pup succeeded on all three attempts to fetch.

Wheat stated, “When I saw the first wolf puppy retrieving the ball, I literally got goosebumps,” said Wheat in a press release. “It was so unexpected, and I immediately realized that if some wolves possess a genetic variation for human-directed play behavior, this could have been instrumental in dog domestication” (iScience).

Wheat suggested that this playful behavior of playing fetch may have been pivotal in taming wolves. By selectively breeding those willing to interact in this way, humans likely paved the way for the development of domestic dogs. She explains, “It makes sense, we connect with our dogs when we interact with them” (iScience).

The Father’s Desire for Fellowship

Just as wolves’ willingness to play sets them apart, perhaps the Father’s purpose in creating sentient human beings was similar. He knew that some pack members would be willing to “play” with Him. When Adam and Eve were created, the Father walked with them in the Garden of Eden. He enjoyed spending time with His intelligent creation.

The Gospels reveal that the Lord Jesus Christ, during His time on Earth, delighted in companionship, especially with His disciples.

John 3:22 reveals that, “Jesus and his disciples came into Judean territory, and there he spent time with them and was baptizing.”

The Greek word for “spent time,” diatribo, conveys the idea of “remaining, staying, or even ‘rubbing shoulders’ with someone.” Today, we might say that Jesus simply “hung out” with His disciples. In much the same way, perhaps this echoes the Father’s enjoyment when He walked in fellowship with Adam and Eve.

A Tragic Change

Regrettably, everything changed after Adam and Eve sinned. Their intimate relationship with the Father was broken, replaced by fear, shame, and evasion.

Genesis 3:8-10 records this event: “They heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden. Then the LORD God called to the man, and said to him, ‘Where are you?’ He said, ‘I heard the sound of You in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid myself.’”

The Father’s joy in spending time with His creation was shattered when his only sentient, created beings ran and hid. How tragic! Humanity no longer wanted to walk with Him. Like wild wolves avoiding humans, people turned away, wanting nothing to do with their Creator. We treat the Father like wild wolves treat humankind. For the most part, wolves want nothing to do with humanity. Even now, most people ignore Him. Only a few members of the human pack are willing to respond to His call and play with Father.

The Father’s Pursuit

Yet, the Father has not stopped seeking us. Just as we fret over a beloved pet that “gets out” and runs away, He has been calling to humanity for thousands of years. Only those who are His and recognize His voice will come to Him.

The Lord Jesus Christ made this quite clear in John 10:27-28: “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of My hand.”

REFLECT & PRAY

The Father is not a stern, unyielding, or vengeful judge, as some have been taught to fear. Rather, He is a warm, tender, and deeply loving presence, overflowing with compassion. With a gentle whisper, He invites us to draw near, yearning for us to share in His embrace. He longs for heartfelt connection, not demanding our response but tenderly seeking it out of boundless love. Picture the joyful, trusting moments spent with a loyal dog, nuzzling close in pure affection. Could it be that the Father is an ever-loving “hugger,” wrapping us in His warmth and care?

Father, thank You for calling me by name and for making me Yours forever. Create in me a hunger and thirst for Your Word and for spending time with You. Help me to respond to Your loving call with joy and gratitude.

INSIGHT

The Father Invites Us to Play

The Father invites us to engage with Him wherever we wish. Adam and Eve had a special place, “the playground,” where they spent time with the Father, the Garden of Eden. Many of the Father’s children have a special place where they choose to be alone with Him.  

Each person has a unique playground. A child might find joy playing in the sand or mud. A baseball player’s sanctuary is the field, where they practice and compete. A pianist might discover their place of connection at a piano, preparing for the thrill of performing in a concert hall. For intellectuals, who love to explore knowledge, their playground is the mind and the realm of ideas. Each of us connects with the Father in their own unique way.

A Call to Reason

The Father not only invites us to play but also to reason with Him. The Father speaks to us through Isaiah the prophet, Isaiah 1:18, “Come now, and let us reason together.”

This invitation is remarkable. The Father wants us to engage in dialogue with Him, to bring our thoughts and concerns to the table. This isn’t limited to casual conversation. The Father encourages us to use our logic and reason in our discussions with Him. He urges people to talk things out.

The Historical Context

Isaiah’s words reflect a time when the nation of Israel had turned away from God’s laws. Through the prophet Isaiah, the Father raised a legal complaint against the people for their rebellion. Their sin was as deep. But they were in denial. He compares their sins and iniquities to blood-colored, crimson stains on their souls.

The Hebrew word for “reason” in this passage is yaḵaḥ, a legal term that conveys the idea of “arguing or deciding a case in court.” Essentially, the Father was saying, “Come, and let us discuss this matter together and work it out.”

The Difference Between His Opinion and Ours

When engaging in reasoning or discussion with the Father, it’s crucial to remember this fundamental truth: His opinions are not like ours. The difference between His opinion and our opinion is that God’s opinion is always absolutely correct! Through dialogue, He doesn’t simply “prove His point.” Instead, He lovingly guides us to understand His truth.

The Father’s intent in reasoning with His people wasn’t to condemn them outright. He wants them to realize for themselves and be convinced in their own minds of their guilt. And then take appropriate action: acknowledge it, turn from it, and repent from it.

His Endgame is Forgiveness

Wiersbe observes that the Father is offering them a pardon if they repent, change their ways, and turn from their sin. He assured them that their scarred souls could be cleansed. Their sins, as glaring as scarlet, could be made as pure as snow. Their guilt, once as red as crimson-dyed cloth, could be made white like wool.

God promises in Isaiah 1:18, “Though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they will be like wool.”

When the Father plays, He has an endgame in mind: total forgiveness. He desires to expunge the sin from our records, cleanse us, and restore our relationship with Him.

A Lesson for Today

The Father continues to call each of us to His side. He doesn’t seek to push us away but to draw us closer, offering truth, clarity, forgiveness, and love.

May we be willing to come when He calls.

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© Dr. H 2025

The enemy of my enemy is my friend ∙

The enemy of my enemy is my friend ∙∙

You boast, “We have made a covenant with death, And with Sheol we have made a pact. . The coming destruction can never touch us, for we have made falsehood our refuge and we have concealed ourselves with deception.” – Isaiah 28:15

Isaiah 28:16-18

 16 Therefore, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: “Look! I am placing a foundation stone in Zion, a firm and tested stone. It is a precious cornerstone that is safe to build on. Whoever believes need never be shaken.”

 17 “I will test you with the measuring line of justice and the plumb line of righteousness. Since your refuge is made of lies, a hailstorm will knock it down. Since it is made of deception, a flood will sweep it away.”

 18 “I will cancel the bargain you made to cheat death, and I will overturn your deal to dodge the grave. When the terrible enemy sweeps through, you will be trampled into the ground.”

A Lesson for America and Children of the King

There is an important lesson for America, specifically for the children of the King. Sometimes, we must put aside our disagreements and form coalitions for the greater good.

A Moment of Unity Amid Division

Consider what happened in Israel in 2019. Amid intense political mudslinging and accusations of “fake news,” political candidates found themselves at a standstill. Multiple elections were held, yet no candidate was able to form the majority coalition necessary to become prime minister. The nation was in turmoil. Then, something remarkable happened.

Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s acting prime minister, and Benny Gantz, his primary opponent, decided to compromise. Why?

Gantz’s Choice for Unity

Benny Gantz, head of the Blue and White party, declared, “I chose the only path possible at this time, a national emergency government!” Reflecting on the situation, he added, “We are facing one of the most serious challenges in the history of our country. It is a global challenge of exceptional magnitude, and it has hit Israel at a time of crippling political deadlock and unbearable divisions – a lethal combination. Leadership has never been more necessary. Leading has never been more difficult.”

Gantz continued, “As a soldier who has dedicated my life to protecting the State of Israel, I have vowed to carry my commitment to the country forward and inform my decisions as a political leader. At this time of crisis, I had no choice but to put politics aside and choose the only path that allows us to avoid a fourth election . . .. I chose the only path which positions Israel to effectively fight this horrific pandemic: the path of a national emergency government.”

He concluded with a powerful appeal for unity. “More than ever, Israel needs unity. Israel needs strong and capable leadership, able to relentlessly fight the coronavirus while protecting Israel’s democracy. And let me state clearly: No matter how fierce the battle, I will never compromise on democracy. I will never compromise on the principles underpinning the votes of the more than one million Israelis who voted for Blue and White.”

The Challenge of Trusting God

If there was ever a time that demanded wisdom, discernment, and reliance on the Father’s guidance, it is dealing with our enemies. However, this is not a new challenge. Throughout history, the Father has called His people to trust Him fully, even when circumstances appear dire.

We should trust the Father with all our hearts in every situation, depending on Him alone. Before the children of Israel entered the Promised Land, they received a stern warning. The Father provided them with clear reasons for being cautious and not entering into agreements with foreign nations.

Exodus 23:32-33 cautions: “Make no treaties with them or their gods. They will cause you to sin against me. If you serve their gods, you will be caught in the trap of idolatry.”

Yet despite these clear instructions, the Israelites disobeyed. They formed alliances, trusted in foreign powers, and spiraled into the worship of idols and false gods.

The Cost of Disobedience

The consequences of disobedience were disastrous, as seen in Isaiah 30 and Isaiah 28.

Isaiah 30:2-35: warns: “For without consulting me, you have gone down to Egypt for help. You have put your trust in Pharaoh’s protection. You have tried to hide in his shade. But by trusting Pharaoh, you will be humiliated, and by depending on him, you will be disgraced. All who trust in him will be ashamed. He will not help you. Instead, he will disgrace you.’”

Isaiah writes in Isaiah 28:15, “You boast, ‘We have struck a bargain to cheat death and have made a deal to dodge the grave. The coming destruction can never touch us, for we have built a strong refuge made of lies and deception.’”

In every case, the results were catastrophic.

A Call to Trust and Obedience

The Old Testament is filled with stories of God’s miraculous interventions on behalf of His people (Joshua 10:11-14).  These accounts remind us of the blessings that come from trusting and obeying Him. Yet, as children of the King, are we not guilty of repeating the same mistakes? Do we too often rely on our own plans, thinking they are better than God’s?

REFLECT & PRAY

It’s time to reflect on our trust in the Father. Too often, we think we have a “better idea” than the Father. Really?

Father, thank You for providing a firm foundation, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, upon which I can stand and never be shaken. When trials come, help me trust in You completely. I need not panic nor be disturbed. Remind me daily to believe in and depend on You and the perfect provision of the Lord Jesus Christ.

INSIGHT

Forming Alliances with Our Enemies

Sometimes, forming alliances with enemies is both wise and necessary when faced with a greater threat. However, this approach can be a double-edged sword, requiring discernment and measured action.

The Wisdom of “The Enemy of My Enemy”

The saying, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend,” is an ancient proverb that resonates through history. Many attribute its roots to principles from Sun Tzu’s The Art of War. It implies that opposing parties can find common ground to work together against a common enemy.

Winston Churchill exemplified this idea during World War II. When America and Great Britain allied with Russia to defeat Hitler, Churchill famously remarked, “If Hitler invaded Hell, I would make at least a favorable reference to the Devil in the House of Commons.” His statement captured the stark pragmatism of temporarily setting aside ideological differences for the greater good.

Divided Against Ourselves

An old story illustrates the foolishness of division among those who should be united. Once, several groups of Christians sought refuge in a fort during an attack by the enemy. The enemy bombarded the fort with rocks and small boulders. What did the beleaguered Christians do? Instead of coming together to defend themselves, they began throwing rocks at one another. It is all too easy and common to hurl stones at those we don’t entirely agree with, isn’t it?

How often do we fall into such behavior? Rather than joining forces, we focus on petty disagreements and aim our figurative stones at each other. It is both easy and common to criticize and quarrel over differences, but is it helpful?

Facing Greater Enemies

The children of the King face greater enemies than those found among their own ranks. The world, the devil, and the temptations of the flesh are formidable foes. Shouldn’t we set aside our divisions over non-essential practices or beliefs and confront these challenges together? Acting like quarreling children in a sandbox, fighting over toys, does nothing to advance His kingdom. It may be time to “put on our grown-up clothes,” act like adults, and recognize that we are members of the same body.

The Gift of Solitude

During the COVID-19 crisis, the world implemented drastic measures to address a global emergency. Terms like “social distancing,” “stay-at-home,” “shelter-in-place,” and “lockdown” became part of our everyday vocabulary. We adapted to new practices such as working from home and telemedicine, fundamentally changing how we interact with one another.

Such drastic times also present an opportunity. Embracing solitude can be a gift. Isolation encourages us to seek a deeper connection with the Father and to strengthen our spiritual walk. Rather than viewing social seclusion as a lonely confinement, it can serve as a time for introspection, renewal, and intentional connection with our heavenly Father.

Laying Down our Stones

How often do the children of the King quarrel needlessly with those we love? Bickering over trivial matters can fracture relationships that matter most. Instead of letting these moments divide us, what if we viewed them as opportunities to build bridges? The season of distancing has reminded us of the value of those closest to us. Perhaps it’s time to lay down our stones and work toward strengthening our family bonds.

What Is the Alternative?

If we refuse to unite, what option do we have? Division weakens us, making us vulnerable to our common enemies. However, when we align our hearts and efforts, we become stronger together. The choice is ours to make. Will we rise above and stand united for the honor and glory of our Lord and King?

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© Dr. H 2025

Touched by an angel ∙∙

Touched by an angel ∙∙

Just then, a hand touched me and lifted me, still trembling, to my hands and knees. – Daniel 10:10

Daniel 10:17-19

 17 How can someone like me, your servant, talk to you, my lord? My strength is gone, and I can hardly breathe.

 18 Then the one who looked like a man touched me again, and I felt my strength returning.

 19 “Don’t be afraid,” he said, “for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!” As he spoke these words to me, I suddenly felt stronger and said to him, “Please speak to me, my lord, for you have strengthened me.”

The Legacy of Touched by an Angel

“Touched by an Angel” was a heartwarming and inspiring American fantasy television series that captured audiences for nearly a decade. Airing from 1994 to 2003, it spanned 9 seasons with a total of 211 episodes. The series centered on two main characters, Monica and her wise supervisor Tess, as angels sent from heaven to guide people through their struggles.

Though these angels didn’t offer instant solutions or magical fixes, they came with messages of hope, displaying the Father’s unconditional love and often helping individuals turn their lives around. A quirky element of the show was Tess’s mode of transportation. Instead of a fiery chariot, she drove a classic 1972 Cadillac Eldorado Fleetwood, a charming detail that endeared her to fans.

What Is It Really Like to Be Touched by an Angel?

The Scriptures provide vivid accounts of angelic interactions, some appearing in human form and others revealing divine radiance. Among these is the prophet Daniel’s extraordinary encounter, as recorded in Daniel 10.

Daniel was entrusted with prophetic visions regarding the future of his people and the coming of the Messiah. Overwhelmed by their complexity, he prayed and fasted, seeking clarity. Suddenly, his prayer was interrupted by an awe-inspiring figure that captivated him completely, far surpassing the brilliance of the angel Gabriel whom he had seen previously.

A Heavenly Encounter

Daniel’s vision begins with a voice. He gazed upward and described the figure: Daniel 10:5-6: “I looked up and saw a man dressed in linen clothing, with a belt of pure gold around his waist. His body looked like a precious gem. His face flashed like lightning, and his eyes flamed like torches. His arms and feet shone like polished bronze, and his voice roared like a vast multitude of people.”

This description closely mirrors the Apostle John’s vision of Christ in Revelation 1:10-16. Did Daniel see the pre-incarnate Christ or an angelic messenger, such as Gabriel? The Scriptures do not definitively answer. Ultimately, the identity of the visitor is secondary to the profound impact of the moment.

The Overwhelming Power of God’s Presence

Daniel was overtaken with awe. His strength drained, he turned pale, collapsed, and lay face down on the ground in utter weakness: Daniel 10:8-9: “I was left there all alone to see this amazing vision. My strength left me, my face grew deathly pale, and I felt very weak. Then I heard the man speak, and when I heard the sound of his voice, I fainted and lay there with my face to the ground.”

Falling prostrate before the presence of God Himself or when experiencing angelic visitations is a common reaction in the Scriptures.

The touch of an angel

Then, a hand touched Daniel, lifting him and renewing his trembling body: Daniel 10:10-11: “Just then a hand touched me and lifted me, still trembling, to my hands and knees. And the man said to me, ‘Daniel, you are very precious to God, so listen carefully to what I have to say to you. Stand up, for I have been sent to you.’ When he said this to me, I stood up, still trembling.”

The messenger reassured Daniel, explaining that his prayers had been heard in heaven and answered. Daniel 10:12 says, “Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven.”

Strength Restored

Overwhelmed once more, Daniel confessed his frailty and inability to comprehend the vision. Yet again, he was touched and strengthened, Daniel 10:18-19: “Then the one who looked like a man touched me again, and I felt my strength returning. ‘Don’t be afraid,’ he said, ‘for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!’ As he spoke these words to me, I suddenly felt stronger and said to him, ‘Please speak to me, my lord, for you have strengthened me.’”

Through divine touch, Daniel’s spirit was renewed, his strength restored, and his desire for understanding deepened.

REFLECT & PRAY

The Father often reaches out to encourage His people, sometimes through His written Word, sometimes through awe-inspiring messengers, and on rare occasions, through personal, life-changing visitations.

Father, thank You for reaching out and touching our hearts. Thank You for inviting us to experience Your love, guidance, and presence. May we always seek You with humility and trust in Your divine plan.

INSIGHT

A Vision Beyond Comprehension

The figure that appeared before Daniel was unlike anything he had encountered before, with one possible exception. The visitor had the likeness of a man but radiated an angelic presence. Daniel could not discern if he were witnessing a vision or a real man. Overwhelmed, he drifted in and out of consciousness, yet something about the figure stirred a sense of familiarity. The resemblance reminded Daniel of the Son of Man, whom he had seen earlier in dreams and visions when the Son of Man appeared before the Ancient of Days (Daniel 7:13).

A Marvelous Revelation

Gradually, Daniel’s mind cleared, and he became acutely aware of the extraordinary nature of the moment. It felt as though he was standing in the very presence of the Most High, nourished by the life and light emanating from Him. In that instant, he became aware of the existence of knowledge on a level much higher than his aging mind could comprehend. It transcended mere knowledge. It was a special place where truth, knowledge, and experience kiss.

Somehow, Daniel, in his feeble humanity, for a brief moment, supernaturally melded with the mind of the Eternal. He had a brief, close encounter with the very thoughts of the living God. He became aware of the wonderful, special wisdom and intelligence that spoke all things into existence. But this experience was about more than mere information.

A Glimpse Into the Mind of God

Why had the Father chosen to reveal this to Daniel? This glimpse into His thoughts was not just to satisfy curiosity but to whet Daniel’s appetite for something greater. It was an invitation for more than fleeting moments of enlightenment. The Father was calling Daniel to a deeper, daily experience of His Kingdom, a life lived on a spiritual plateau.

Living on a Higher Plane

This divine invitation went beyond knowledge. He wanted Daniel to have more than a brief taste. Surely, He was inviting Daniel to experience daily the reality of the Father’s Kingdom. He was inviting him to live on a higher plain where the Father’s all-encompassing purity extinguishes sinful thoughts.

In this wonderful place, his worldly concerns were replaced by the Father’s perspective and desires. The Father wanted Daniel to see things through His eyes. The Father was not merely inviting him to experience His Kingdom. He was inviting Daniel to experience Him personally and intimately. For those brief, transcendent moments, Daniel saw the world through the eyes of the Creator of all things.

An Invitation for All Believers

What Daniel experienced is not unique to him alone. This divine calling extends to all children of the King. The Father invites each of us to draw near to Him, to experience His Kingdom in all its fullness, and to live continuously in His presence.

This is not merely about glimpsing divine truth but about being transformed by it, aligning our thoughts and hearts with the eternal, life-giving reality of God Himself.

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© Dr. H 2025

The Bad Boys of Bethel

The Bad Boys of Bethel

 23 Elisha left Jericho and went up to Bethel. As he was walking along the road, a group of boys from the town began mocking and making fun of him. “Go away, baldy!” they chanted. “Go away, baldy!”

 24 Elisha turned around and looked at them, and he cursed them in the name of the LORD. Then two bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of them. – 2 Kings 2:23-24

Leviticus 26:21-22

 21 If you continue to reject me and refuse to follow my commands, I will bring upon you seven times greater calamities as punishment for your sins.

 22 I will send wild animals to attack, which will take your children, kill your livestock, and reduce your population.

Drawing False Conclusions

Often, we misinterpret what we see or hear, leading us to come to incorrect conclusions. A lack of understanding can result in misinterpretations that have serious consequences and wide-ranging effects. This is especially important when approaching the Word of God. We must make every effort not to misinterpret or mishandle it. An excellent example of superficial misunderstanding is incorrectly interpreting 2 Kings 2:23-24.

A Cruel Punishment for Childhood Pranks?

Walter Kaiser observes that many readers draw invalid conclusions from the story. At first glance, it appears the prophet encountered a group of carefree children playing near Bethel. Seeing this strange-looking man, they began to chant in jest, “Go on up, you bald head! Go on up, you bald head!” Instead of recognizing the situation for what it was, the old prophet became enraged, turned around, and, with his eyes flashing with anger, shouted a curse in the name of the Lord.

This unsettling and macabre tale may leave readers horrified and appalled by its grisly nature. It evokes comparisons to the Brothers Grimm’s chilling fairy tale “Hansel and Gretel,” where a malevolent witch lures two unsuspecting children into her clutches, intending to fatten and eventually devour them. Heightening the unease is the shock that Elisha, a man of faith and servant of God, plays a pivotal role in such a dark and harrowing story.

In other words, it seems to depict a mild offense committed by some innocent children that escalated into a federal case, driven by a cranky old prophet who was as lacking in both hair and humor. The underlying complaint goes something like this: “How can one believe in a God who would send bears to maul little children simply for teasing an old man who likely had an unusual appearance even for that time?”

The Young Boys Weren’t Boys

Translations such as “little children” or “young boys” are clearly inaccurate when describing the group. Because the Hebrew words na’arim qetannim are more accurately rendered as “young lads” or “young men.” It implies they were “older adolescents or young adults capable of understanding the gravity of their actions.”

From various examples in the Old Testament where ages are specified, we understand that these were boys aged from twelve to thirty years old. For instance, Isaac is referred to as a na’ar (“young man”) in his early twenties at the time of his sacrifice in Genesis 22:12. Similarly, it describes Joseph in Genesis 37:2 when he was seventeen years old.

Was Elisha a Grumpy Old Man with No Sense Of Humor?

Elisha definitely was not elderly. Instead, he was about twenty-five years old when the incident occurred, shortly after Elijah was taken up to heaven. Elijah’s translation happened around 860 B.C., while Elisha’s death occurred around 795 B.C. Elisha’s ministry lasted at least fifty-five years, covering the reigns of Jehoram, Jehu, Jehoahaz, and Joash. Do the math.

Did Elisha Lose His Temper?

What was so wrong with calling him a “bald head?” The term “bald head” was used as an insult in the Old Testament (Isaiah 3:17, 24). It clearly conveyed contempt, marking such a person as despicable. The youths were mockingly deriding him. This is evident from their chant: “Go on up! Go on up!” They were not referring to the uphill slope of the Bethel road. Instead, the youths were alluding to Elijah’s ascent into heaven.

Kaiser concludes that they did not believe or acknowledge God’s work in their midst. To put it in modern terms, they jeered, “Blast off! Blast off! You go too. Get out of here. We are tired of both of you.”

But why?

Bethel in the Days of Elisha

The period of Elisha (roughly 860-795 BC) was characterized by political instability, idolatry, and conflicts. Bethel was a significant city in ancient Israel, located in the northern kingdom. It was notorious for its idolatrous worship. After the kingdom split, King Jeroboam I (circa 930 BCE) established Bethel as a religious center to rival Jerusalem. It became a site of spiritual rebellion and open hostility toward the living God and His servants, the prophets. It was there that Jeroboam instituted the worship of the golden calf (1 Kings 12:28-33).

REFLECT & PRAY

Forty-two young men suffered serious injuries, perhaps death, due to their audacious, defiant behavior. What a tragedy to turn away from the living God and to live the rest of our lives with such scars as a reminder of rebellion.

Father, how often have I misunderstood you, or even worse, rebelled and defied you? Please strengthen me to walk with you and to honor you as my eternal King.

INSIGHT

The Seriousness of the Crime

Constable concludes, “Evidently, Elisha’s approach triggered a mass demonstration against him by many young men.” The young men were idolatrous mockers and thugs. Worshipping the golden calf at Bethel had taken them far away from knowing and honoring the one and only true God. In mocking Elisha and taunting him, they are actually mocking the God of Israel whom he served. House notes that “The youths were typical of a nation that ‘mocked God’s messengers, despised his words and scoffed at his prophets.’”

2 Chronicles 36:16 clearly indicates that, “the people mocked these messengers of God and despised their words. They scoffed at the prophets until the LORD’s anger could no longer be restrained and nothing could be done.”

This type of action was enumerated in Leviticus as rebellion punishable by death. Moses clearly warns in Leviticus 26:21-22: “Then if you walk contrary to me and will not listen to me, I will continue striking you, sevenfold for your sins. I will send wild animals that will rob you of your children . . ..”

Blessings and Curses

The tragic events of 2 Kings 2:23-24 did not occur in a vacuum. It is essential to grasp the historical and cultural background.

The nation of Israel was bound to the Lord God through a covenant relationship known as the Old Covenant. Leviticus 26 outlines the “Blessings and Curses” that stem from Israel’s response to the terms of this covenant. Obedience would lead to abundant blessings. At the same time, persistent disobedience would bring about severe judgment. Specifically, Leviticus 26:21-22 describes the serious consequences and escalating punishments for ongoing hostility toward God.  

Leviticus 26:21 states that if the people remain hostile and refuse to obey, disaster will come “seven times over,” indicating an intensification of punishment for their rebellion.

Leviticus 26:22 warns that God will send wild animals, resulting in devastating losses, including the loss of children and livestock.

The Old Covenant specified how the people were expected to conduct themselves because of their relationship with God. When they fail to comply and meet these expectations, it disrupts their connection with God. Disobedience results in consequences intended to encourage repentance and restoration.

Was Elisha Angry and Enraged?

To answer this question, we must ask another question. Was the Father angry and enraged when He saw the utter wickedness of the human race?

Moses indicates in Genesis 6:5-6 that rather than feeling anger, the Father was filled with sadness and regret. “The LORD observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil. So the LORD was sorry he had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke his heart.”

Elisha, as a man of God and one of His prophets, had a very sensitive heart. Rather than anger, he, too, was heartbroken and grieved. Elisha was content to leave the work of judging to God. He did not seek personal retaliation for wrongs suffered. He pronounced a judgment against them and asked God to fulfill the punishment He had promised when His name, His cause, and His word were being challenged. 2 Kings 2:24, “Elisha turned around and looked at them, and he cursed them in the name of the LORD.”

A Wake-Up Call

Such a harsh judgment meted out underscores the consequences of not taking God seriously and honoring Him and those who serve Him. The story of Elisha and the Bad Boys of Bethel is a wake-up call for all who read it.

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© Dr. H 2025