Podcasts about be comforted

God is to be blessed by His people because He is such a blessing of complete comfort to them. Be Comforted in Our Blessed God of All Comfort.

Episode 9: “Refusing to Be Comforted”Featuring the audiobook “The Dreamer, the Schemer, & the Robe,” by Jenny L. CoteOldest son Reuben cooks up a lie to tell his father Jacob about how they lost Joseph, thinking it would be more merciful than the truth. Meanwhile, a piece of artwork in the studio comes crashing to the floor, bringing out some Reuben-like tendencies in our hosts! 0:44 – Crash! Uh-oh – what was that?!? Would the truth come out?4:50 - Chapter 8: “Refusing to Be Comforted”23:09 – As if to make a point – Announcer Lad takes us straight to Jenny's Corner25:13- Time to get to the bottom of things – how did the crash really take place??26:45 – Max points out a detail that seems to incriminate Announcer Lad… sort of.And as always – we'd love to hear from you! Email Jenny: Jenny@epicorderoftheseven.comBy the way - the audiobook, “The Dreamer, the Schemer,& the Robe: written by Jenny L. Cote, and narrated by Denny Brownlee, is available on Audible.com. Click here to order:adbl.co/3BPQ1Zy

     For Christians, there is blessing through submission to God. This blessing comes from operating within the sphere of God's love and laws, which establish boundaries for us to thrive and survive.[1] This is because “a man's way is not in himself, nor is it in a man who walks to direct his steps” (Jer 10:23); rather, “The steps of a man are established by the LORD, and He delights in his way” (Psa 37:23). As God's children, we are instructed, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Prov 3:5-6).      Living in submission to God means putting His will above our own, trusting in His plan, and following His directives. It entails aligning our thoughts, words, and actions with God's will and commandments. This submission is characterized by humility, trust, and obedience to follow God's directives over personal desires.      In the Old Testament, Abraham exemplified submission when God called him to leave his homeland and go to a land that He would show him. Moses wrote, “Now the LORD said to Abram, ‘Go forth from your country, and from your relatives and from your father's house, to the land which I will show you…So Abram went forth as the LORD had spoken to him” (Gen 12:1, 4). Abraham's obedience to the Lord made him “the friend of God” (Jam 2:23; cf., 2 Ch 20:7; Isa 41:8). When God said to Isaiah, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us? (Isa 6:8a), Isaiah responded, “Here am I. Send me!” (Isa 6:8b). And when it was revealed to Mary that she would conceive in her womb and bear the humanity of Christ, she said, “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Jesus, the Perfect Example of Submission      Jesus Christ provides the perfect example of submission to God. He's the perfect example because He is perfect and never disobeyed the Lord. Jesus said, “I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (John 5:30), and “I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (John 6:38). In the Garden of Gethsemane before His crucifixion, Jesus prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will” (Matt 26:39; cf., Matt 26:42, 44). Paul tells us that Jesus “humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Phil 2:8). Jesus' willingness to submit to the Father's will, even to the point of death, is the ultimate example of submission. Jesus never deviated from the Father's course for Him.      Jesus' submission to the Father started when He was very young. By age twelve, Jesus knew God was His Father and what the Father's mission was for Him (Luke 2:40-47).[2] Isaiah wrote, “The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of disciples, that I may know how to sustain the weary one with a word. He awakens Me morning by morning, He awakens My ear to listen as a disciple” (Isa 50:4). This passage refers to Jesus' humanity, where God the Father would educate Jesus as His disciple. This education enabled Him to minister to others, as He says, “that I may know how to sustain the weary one with a word” (Isa 50:4b). To those who are weary in their souls, a divinely spoken word can lift the spirit and revive the heart (see Matt 11:28). And Jesus' discipleship training took place in the early morning hours, as Messiah states, “He awakens Me morning by morning, He awakens My ear to listen as a disciple” (Isa 50:4c). According to Arnold Fruchtenbaum, “During His boyhood in Nazareth, every morning, Jesus was awakened by His Father in the early hours of the morning to receive instruction. In this way Jesus learned who He was, what His mission was, and how to act and react accordingly.”[3] As a human boy, Jesus had to be educated, which meant the discipline of acquiring knowledge over time. Because of His daily discipline, Jesus was fluent in the Scriptures by age 12. Fruchtenbaum states: "The New Testament gives us an account of a 12 year old Jesus visiting the Temple in Jerusalem for the first time (Luke 2:41–50). By the age of 12 Jesus was fully conversant with the Hebrew Scriptures and able to debate deep spiritual matters with the leading theologians of the day. Furthermore, when Jesus is later rebuked by His mother for remaining in the Temple, He replies, “Did you not know I would be in My Father's house?” This one statement shows that by the age of 12 Jesus knew that Joseph was not His father, knew that God was His Father, and therefore understood that He was the Messiah of Israel."[4]      Jesus was fully submissive to the Father, saying, “The Lord GOD has opened My ear; and I was not disobedient nor did I turn back” (Isa 50:5). Another translation reads, “The sovereign LORD has spoken to me clearly; I have not rebelled, I have not turned back” (Isa 50:5 NET). The word “disobedient” translates the Hebrew verb marah (מָרָה), which, according to HALOT, means “to be recalcitrant, rebellious.”[5] Jesus was not hardhearted nor defiant to the Lord in any way. When God spoke to Messiah, His Servant, He was in total submission to God in everything. Throughout Scripture we observe where other servants of the Lord tried to escape His call to service. When Moses was called by the Lord (Ex 4:1-12), he replied, “Please, Lord, send someone else” (Ex 4:13 CSB). When God called Jonah, we're informed His prophet rebelled, and “Jonah rose up to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD” (Jon 1:3a). But Messiah never rebelled against the Lord. He was in total submission to Him. And such submission required a mind that was saturated with divine viewpoint, and a will that was totally surrendered to God. Warren Wiersbe states: "His mind was submitted to the Lord God so that He could learn His Word and His will (Isa 50:4). Everything Jesus said and did was taught to Him by His Father (John 5:19, 30; 6:38; 8:28). He prayed to the Father for guidance (John 11:42; Mark 1:35) and meditated on the Word. What God taught the Servant, the Servant shared with those who needed encouragement and help. The Servant sets a good example here for all who know the importance of a daily “quiet time” with the Lord. The Servant's will was also yielded to the Lord God. An “opened ear” is one that hears and obeys the voice of the master. The people to whom Isaiah ministered were neither “willing” nor “obedient” (Isa 1:19), but the Servant did gladly the will of the Lord God. This was not easy, for it meant yielding His body to wicked men who mocked Him, whipped Him, spat on Him, and then nailed Him to a cross (Matt 26:67; 27:26, 30)."[6]      Later, Jewish scholars would marvel at Jesus' wisdom (Matt 13:54; John 7:15); yet, they were unwilling to submit to Him as Messiah. This is an amazing thing, for though “the Light has come into the world” (John 3:19a), and that Light was bright and clear, we are informed that “men loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their deeds were evil” (John 3:19b). Here, we are reminded that at the heart of every problem is the problem of the heart, and the human heart is very corrupt and in great need of life and light. King David: An OT Example of Submission      David provides a good example of an OT believer who lived in regular submission to God. The Bible describes David as a man after God's own heart (1 Sam 13:14; cf. Acts 13:22). David walked faithfully with the Lord and surrendered to His will. David was an obedient king, for the most part, and subsequent kings were measured by him (1 Ki 3:14; 9:4-5; 11:4-6, 31-34, 38; 14:7-8; 15:1-5; 11-15; 2 Ki 14:1-4; 16:1-3; 18:1-3; 22:1-2). David set the bar for what it meant to be a good king, and this allowed others to have a standard to guide them. However, we should not conclude that David was perfectly obedient and kept the Lord's will in all matters in his life. He did not. No believer ever does, for there are none who are sinless (Eccl 7:20; 1 John 1:8, 10), except the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Cor 5:21; Heb 4:15; 1 John 3:5).      David personally acknowledged his sins, saying “my iniquities are gone over my head; as a heavy burden they weigh too much for me” (Ps 38:4). He also wrote, “My iniquities have overtaken me, so that I am not able to see; they are more numerous than the hairs of my head, and my heart has failed me” (Ps 40:12). Among David's recorded sins, the most offensive was his adulterous affair with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband, Uriah (2 Sam 11:1-17). Scripture tells us that David had slept with Bathsheba and had her husband, Uriah, killed; and “the thing that David had done was evil in the sight of the LORD” (2 Sam 11:27). What is commendable about David is that he handled his sin in a biblical manner by confessing it and seeking the Lord's forgiveness. Concerning Uriah and Bathsheba, David said, “I have sinned against the LORD” (2 Sam 12:13; read Psalm 51 for the longer version of David's confession). And upon his confession, the prophet Nathan said to David, “The LORD also has taken away your sin; you shall not die” (2 Sam 12:13). Here we see God's grace and government at work; for though David was forgiven and restored to fellowship with God, there were still consequences for his actions and the Lord dispensed judgment upon David and Bathsheba (2 Sam 12:14-18).      On another occasion, David followed Satan's temptation and “sinned greatly” by taking a census in Israel (1 Ch 21:1, 8), presumably because he was trusting in his military strength rather than the Lord. When God judged David for this, David confessed his sin and declared, “I have sinned greatly, in that I have done this thing” (1 Ch 21:8a). Not only did he confess his sin, but he also sought the Lord's forgiveness, saying, “Please take away the iniquity of Your servant, for I have done very foolishly” (1 Ch 21:8b), and “I am in great distress; please let me fall into the hand of the LORD, for His mercies are very great” (1 Ch 21:13). It is a hallmark of mature believers to humble themselves before the Lord through confession.      Furthermore, David practiced the sin of polygamy contrary to the Law of Moses, which specifically commanded the king of Israel, that “he shall not multiply wives for himself” (Deut 17:17). From Scripture we know the names of eight of David's wives: Michal (1 Sam 18:27), Abigail (1 Sam 25:39-42), Ahinoam (1 Sam 25:43), Bathsheba (2 Sam 12:24), Maacah, Haggith, Abital, and Eglah (2 Sam 3:2-5). And he had other wives and concubines that are not named, as Scripture reveals, “David took more concubines and wives from Jerusalem, after he came from Hebron” (2 Sam 5:13a). Interestingly, the Bible says nothing about David's practice of polygamy, and though it is a sin according to Scripture, it was apparently tolerated in David's life, perhaps because it never resulted in his wives leading him into idolatry as it had with his son, Solomon (see 1 Ki 11:1-11).       Despite David's imperfections and sins, he was still regarded as a man after God's own heart (1 Sam 13:14; Acts 13:22). His life demonstrates several key areas of faithfulness that are instructive for Christians. David exhibited a deep love and devotion to God, as reflected in his heartfelt expressions throughout the 75 Psalms he wrote (see Psa 3:1; 4:1; 5:1; 6:1; 8:1; 9:1; 11:1; 12:1; 13:1; 14:1; 15:1; 18:1; etc.).[7] Many of the Psalms reveal David's heart of worship to the Lord. His repentance and humility are evident after his sin with Bathsheba, where he sincerely sought God's mercy and forgiveness (Psa 51:1-2). David's trust in God's sovereignty was unwavering, as witnessed in his confrontation with Goliath and his reliance on God (1 Sam 17:37). His obedience to God's commands is seen in his refusal to harm King Saul, respecting God's anointed king (1 Sam 24:1-6). His commitment to justice and righteousness was evident in his reign, where he sought to administer justice and equity for all his people, for “David reigned over all Israel; and David administered justice and righteousness for all his people” (2 Sam 8:15). Even in difficult times, David depended on God for guidance, protection, and comfort, as beautifully expressed in Psalm 23. Lastly, his desire to build a house for God, although fulfilled by his son Solomon, demonstrated his dedication to honoring and prioritizing the Lord (2 Sam 7:1-2). These aspects of David's life highlight the important areas of faithfulness: devotion to God, humility, trust in God's sovereignty, obedience to God's commands, a heart for worship, commitment to justice and righteousness, dependence on God in difficult times, and a desire to honor and prioritize the Lord. The life of David demonstrates that believers can have a healthy walk with the Lord and be in submission to Him and doing His will in the major areas of their lives. Dr. Steven R. Cook   [1] This truth can be compared to the relationship between a loving and wise parent and their child. Just as a parent establishes boundaries and rules to protect and guide their child, God provides His commandments for our well-being, and this because there is much evil in the world. A loving parent sets these boundaries to ensure the child's safety from evil and help them thrive. They know that without guidance, a child might make harmful decisions because they lack the wisdom and experience to navigate life's complexities on their own. Similarly, God's laws create a framework within which we can experience true freedom and blessing. By submitting to God's guidance, we avoid the pitfalls and dangers that come from relying solely on our own understanding. When we trust in the Lord and acknowledge Him in all our ways, He directs our paths, leading us to a life of purpose and fulfillment. [2] Jesus, in His humanity, was not omniscient, and needed to develop and grow in His understanding. Luke tells us that Jesus “continued to grow and become strong, increasing in wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him” (Luke 2:40). When Jesus was twelve, He traveled with Joseph and Mary to Jerusalem (Luke 2:41-42), but after they left, we're informed “Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem” (Luke 2:43b). Joeseph and Mary were not aware that Jesus had stayed behind (Luke 2:43-44), but when they looked for Him and could not find Him, “they returned to Jerusalem looking for Him” (Luk 2:45b). Luke tells us, “Then, after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and His answers” (Luke 2:46-47). Jesus, in His humanity, had great biblical wisdom, but not because He learned from the Rabbinic scholars of the day. The Jewish leadership understood this. John wrote,  “The Jews then were astonished, saying, ‘How has this man become learned, having never been educated?'” (John 7:15). Jesus replied to them, saying, “My teaching is not Mine, but His who sent Me” (John 7:16). [3] Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, Messianic Christology: A Study of Old Testament Prophecy Concerning the First Coming of the Messiah (Tustin, CA: Ariel Ministries, 1998), 51. [4] Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, Messianic Christology: A Study of Old Testament Prophecy Concerning the First Coming of the Messiah (Tustin, CA: Ariel Ministries, 1998), 51. [5] Ludwig Koehler et al., The Hebrew and Aramaic Lexicon of the Old Testament (Leiden: E.J. Brill, 1994–2000), 632. [6] Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Comforted, “Be” Commentary Series (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 126. [7] King David is traditionally attributed with writing 73 of the 150 Psalms in the Book of Psalms. These Psalms often bear his name in their superscriptions, indicating his authorship. Additionally, the New Testament ascribes two other Psalms to David (Psalm 2 in Acts 4:25 and Psalm 95 in Hebrews 4:7), bringing the total traditionally attributed to David to 75.

Our emotional needs are what makes us human – and thankfully, God wants to help meet these needs. Today I am sharing Bible verses for emotional needs for love, comfort and purpose, and 3 ways we can use scripture as therapy. Friend, let these verses help you embrace daily joy!WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:[03:19] Emotional Need #1: The Need to Be Loved[07:49] Emotional Need #2: The Need to Feel Worth[11:52] Emotional Need #3: The Need to Be Comforted[20:23] Emotional Need #4: The Need For Purpose and Direction[27:50] 3 Ways We Can Use These Scriptures as Therapy[30:52] Emotional Needs Remind Us That It's Healthy for Us to Stay Dependent on GodRESOURCES:Godly joy is a fruit of the spirit, but our physical, mental, and spiritual states (things we're in charge of) play a huge role in our ability to receive godly joy. Let me show you 10 practical ways to tap into everyday Christ-centered joy in my new free video training:  10 Habits and Mindsets to Cultivate Extraordinary Joy. Download it now!Discover how God's love radically changes your identity, your perspective and your ability to find peace in the “I Am Loved” Bible Study!Need a simple, biblical way to manage overwhelm + stress? Christian meditation is a scientifically proven tool to soothe the nerves + connect with God to restore the soul. Get my Christian Meditations for Daily Calm resource to help you bring more calm into your life. RELATED EPISODES:182: 3 Steps to Take When You're Stuck In an Emotional Funk218: New Christian Meditations for Calm! 3.5 Minutes to Refresh Your Mind with God's Peace219: Is Christian Meditation Biblical? How Is Christian Meditation Different from Eastern Meditation?220: How Can Christian Meditation Help You Better Manage Stress?221: Super Busy? 15 Ways Christian Meditation Can Fit Into Your Daily Schedule222: How to Manage Emotional Overwhelm with Christian Meditation

Be Comforted, Our Father in Heaven

Be Comforted, Our Father in Heaven

A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Refusing to Be Comforted Subtitle: Metropolitan Tabernacle Vol 44 Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 7/10/1898 Bible: Psalm 77:2 Length: 47 min.

The Navi encourages us, 'Nachamu, Nachamu'-'Be Comforted, Be Comforted.' And the simple question is: Why? On the basis of what? What changed? I don't see a rebuilt Beis HaMikdash. I'm still in Galus. The loss I have experienced has not been 'found.' Why should I be comforted?

Key Verse-v. 5- -For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.- -ESV---Aim- To Suffer and Be Comforted in Jesus-as God's supernatural church

Key Verse—v. 5: "For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too." (ESV)Aim: To Suffer and Be Comforted in Jesus—as God's supernatural church

Introduction      As God's chosen leader for Israel, Moses had provided everything the people needed for a life of success and prosperity (Deut 11:26-28; 30:15-18). However, in this pericope, the Lord informs Moses and Joshua that after Moses dies and Joshua leads the nation into Canaan, the people will abandon the Lord and pursue idols to their own harm. And this will happen after the Lord demonstrates His goodness to them and blesses them greatly. This shows that godly leadership does not guarantee others will follow. Nevertheless, God's leadership must maintain faithfulness to their appointed task, even when they know those they lead will fail to live by the virtues they are taught. This requires commitment and integrity before the Lord. Text      This new section opens with Moses' death being mentioned and the appointment of Joshua as his successor. The text reads, “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Behold, the time for you to die is near; call Joshua, and present yourselves at the tent of meeting, that I may commission him.' So Moses and Joshua went and presented themselves at the tent of meeting. 15 The LORD appeared in the tent in a pillar of cloud, and the pillar of cloud stood at the doorway of the tent” (Deut 31:14-15). The “tent of meeting” was a special place located outside the camp where Moses would meet with God for instruction and direction (Ex 33:7-11; Num 11:16, 12:4). The “pillar of cloud” was the visible presence of God for Israel during this time (Ex 13:21-22). Whereas Moses had previously commissioned Joshua publicly as his successor (Deut 31:7-8), here the meeting was private, with only Moses and Joshua presenting themselves to the Lord. In what follows, the Lord speaks first to Moses (Deut 31:16-21), and then to Joshua (Deut 31:23).      The text reads, “The LORD said to Moses, ‘Behold, you are about to lie down with your fathers; and this people will arise and play the harlot with the strange gods of the land, into the midst of which they are going, and will forsake Me and break My covenant which I have made with them'” (Deut 31:16). The Lord revealed to Moses that after his death, the people of Israel would begin the journey of apostasy in which they would turn away from the Lord and worship idols. In this way, they would break their covenant promise to the Lord and turn away from Him (cf., Judg 2:17). This must have been sad news to Moses, who had spent his years as a faithful and godly leader who instructed and encouraged his people to know the Lord and walk with Him (Deut 11:26-28; 28:1; 30:15-16). The Lord continued to inform Moses, saying: "Then My anger will be kindled against them in that day, and I will forsake them and hide My face from them, and they will be consumed, and many evils and troubles will come upon them; so that they will say in that day, ‘Is it not because our God is not among us that these evils have come upon us?' 18 But I will surely hide My face in that day because of all the evil which they will do, for they will turn to other gods." (Deut 31:17-18)      Because Israel would act wickedly by turning from the Lord and worshipping idols, He would execute the curses of the covenant (Deut 28:15-68). His people would incorrectly think their problems came upon them because God had abandoned them, saying, “Is it not because our God is not among us that these evils have come upon us?” (Deut 31:17b). It's true the nation would experience great suffering, but not because God had failed, but because they had. The Lord declared, “I will surely hide My face in that day because of all the evil which they will do, for they will turn to other gods” (Deut 31:18). Earl Radmacher correctly notes, “The principal reason for God's judgment on His people was their continual idolatry. They abandoned His grace and willingly embraced the evil religious practices of the Canaanites.”[1]When God hides His face, it is the opposite of blessing, in which He causes His face to shine upon them for their good (Num 6:24-26).      In order for Israel to correctly assess their circumstances from the divine perspective, the Lord instructed Moses and Joshua to write a song and to teach it to Israel. The Lord said, “Now therefore, write this song for yourselves, and teach it to the sons of Israel; put it on their lips, so that this song may be a witness for Me against the sons of Israel” (Deut 31:19). Here, the directive was for Moses and Joshua to write the song together. The song itself is recorded in Deuteronomy 32:1-43. The phrase, “put it on their lips” means, “have them recite it” (CSB), which denotes memorizing it in order to be able to recall it from memory. The Lord gives the reason, saying, “For when I bring them into the land flowing with milk and honey, which I swore to their fathers, and they have eaten and are satisfied and become prosperous, then they will turn to other gods and serve them, and spurn Me and break My covenant” (Deut 31:20). Earl Kalland notes: “Teach it to the Israelites and have them sing it” (Deut 31:19) implies sufficient repetition to fix it in the minds of the people. Only then would they be able to sing it, and only then would it be a witness to the Lord's admonition, not only to those of that generation, but to their descendants who will not have forgotten it (Deut 31:21). The song was to be taught nationally from generation to generation.[2]      Unfortunately, the people who welcomed the Lord's prosperity, would develop a sense of independence, and because the human heart is corrupt, they would turn away from the Lord and pursue idols to their own harm. There is wisdom in the prayer of Agur, who asked the Lord, “Two things I asked of You, do not refuse me before I die: Keep deception and lies far from me, give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is my portion, that I not be full and deny You and say, ‘Who is the LORD?' Or that I not be in want and steal, and profane the name of my God” (Prov 30:7-9).      The Lord continued to inform Moses and Joshua, saying, “Then it shall come about, when many evils and troubles have come upon them, that this song will testify before them as a witness (for it shall not be forgotten from the lips of their descendants); for I know their intent which they are developing today, before I have brought them into the land which I swore” (Deut 31:21). God knew the hearts of His people were corrupt and that they would turn away from Him after they'd enter the land of Canaan and experienced His blessings. Peter Craigie states: "The words that the Lord addresses to Moses on the eve of his death must have caused great sadness in the aging leader. The substance of his long address to the Israelites had been faithfulness to God and a warning against the dangers of resorting to foreign gods and their cults. But now, about to die, Moses is told that this people will rise up and consort with gods foreign to the land. The words of God are not primarily prophetic; they portray rather divine insight into the basic character of the people and their constant tendency to unfaithfulness."[3]      As God's faithful leader, “Moses wrote this song the same day, and taught it to the sons of Israel” (Deut 31:22). God's call for His leaders to be faithful must be obeyed, even when they know those they lead tend toward corruption and will fall away and pursue evil the first chance they get. Godly leaders are responsible to the Lord, to be faithful to Him, to maintain godly output, even when those under their care are defiant. This is true for national leaders, pastors, business leaders, teachers, parents, etc.      After giving Moses specific instructions, the Lord commissioned Joshua the son of Nun, saying, “Be strong and courageous, for you shall bring the sons of Israel into the land which I swore to them, and I will be with you” (Deut 31:23). Even knowing the future failure of His people, the Lord commissioned Joshua to be Moses' successor and to lead the people into righteousness. Failure among the people was not for want of direction and provision by the Lord. No doubt, after Moses' death, Joshua would feel the burden of leadership. His only consolation was that God was with him, to strengthen and guide him along the way, and that his duty was to be faithful to the Lord. According to Peter Craigie, “Of the forms of loneliness that a man can experience, there are few so bleak as the loneliness of leadership. But Joshua assumed his lonely role with an assurance of companionship and strength. God's presence with him would be sufficient to enable him to meet boldly every obstacle that the future could bring.”[4]      Next, we learn, “It came about, when Moses finished writing the words of this law in a book until they were complete, 25 that Moses commanded the Levites who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD, saying, 26 ‘Take this book of the law and place it beside the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, that it may remain there as a witness against you'” (Deut 31:24-26). Here, again, we have a clear statement concerning Mosaic authorship of the book of Deuteronomy (cf., Deut 31:9). Moses gave the book of the Law to the Levites who were to carry it along with the ark of the covenant. Having this written record served a purpose, “that it may remain there as a witness against you” (Deut 31:26b). Truth is objective, and God's judgments are based on fixed standards of righteousness. Moses then spoke to the people, saying: "For I know your rebellion and your stubbornness; behold, while I am still alive with you today, you have been rebellious against the LORD; how much more, then, after my death? 28 Assemble to me all the elders of your tribes and your officers, that I may speak these words in their hearing and call the heavens and the earth to witness against them. 29 For I know that after my death you will act corruptly and turn from the way which I have commanded you; and evil will befall you in the latter days, for you will do that which is evil in the sight of the LORD, provoking Him to anger with the work of your hands." (Deut 31:27-29)      Later, near the end of Joshua's life, he encouraged the people to adhere to the Law of Moses so that they might know success and blessing (Josh 23:6-11), with a warning of judgment if they disobeyed (Josh 23:12-16; 24:20-24). Though Israel's journey of apostasy would begin with the death of Moses, it would gain full steam after the death of Joshua. Historically, we know Israel failed to drive out the Canaanites as God directed (Judg 1:21; 28-33). And because of their disobedience to drive them out, Israel was negatively influenced by the Canaanites who corrupted their values, and they repeatedly did evil in the sight of the Lord by worshipping idols (Judg 2:11; 3:7, 12; 4:1; 6:1; 10:6; 13:1). Sadly, each successive generation got worse and worse (Judg 2:19). And each time Israel fell into idolatry,  God gave them into the hands of their enemies to punish them (Judg 3:8, 12; 4:2; 6:1; 10:6-7; 13:1). But when they cried out to the Lord, He graciously delivered them (Judg 3:9, 15; 4:3; 6:6; 10:12), and for a while they experienced peace. The cycle of sin, suffering, prayer, salvation, and a period of peace was repeated six times in the book of Judges over a period of approximately 350 years.      In anticipation of the next chapter, we read, “Then Moses spoke in the hearing of all the assembly of Israel the words of this song, until they were complete” (Deut 31:30). As God's faithful servant, Moses wrote the song as he'd been directed by the Lord. Present Application      In this chapter we have a glimpse into some of the issues related to godly leadership. When called to lead others according to God's values, it's important to know there will be times when those under our care will not follow us into God's will, but will turn away from the Lord, and this to their own harm and the harm of others. Furthermore, ministry to the Lord can be marked by great hardship; however, integrity demands that we stay the course, no matter the difficulty of our situations. Below are a few examples of godly leaders whose leadership was rejected by others.      In Scripture, we learn Noah was faithful to the Lord and preached His Word for one hundred and twenty years with very minimal results (2 Pet 2:5), and God's judgment fell upon the world in a global deluge, with the result that only “eight persons were brought safely through the water” (1 Pet 3:20). The prophet Samuel was faithful to the Lord and tried to dissuade his generation from rejecting the Lord as their King, as they'd requested a human king in order that they might be like the other nations (1 Sam 8:4-17). But they rejected Samuel's leadership, and “the people refused to listen to the voice of Samuel, and they said, ‘No, but there shall be a king over us, that we also may be like all the nations'” (1Sa 8:19-20a). God gave them Saul, a king after their own hearts, and the nation suffered.      Perhaps one of the most frustrating ministries found in Scripture is that of the prophet Isaiah. The prophet had heard the Lord's calling to ministry and accepted it wholeheartedly (Isa 6:8). Isaiah knew his generation needed to hear the Lord's Word, and perhaps hoped they'd respond in humility as he'd just responded to the Lord's vision in the temple (Isa 6:1-7). God informed Isaiah that his ministry would be met with negative volition. When God's people turned away from Him, choosing a path of darkness and closing their ears to His Word, He added to their blindness and deafness as a form of judgment (Isa 6:9-10). Isaiah's ministry to his people would result in a further hardening of their hearts. Hearing this difficult news, Isaiah asked, “Lord, how long?” (Isa 6:11a). The answer came from the Lord, “Until cities are devastated and without inhabitant, houses are without people and the land is utterly desolate, the LORD has removed men far away, and the forsaken places are many in the midst of the land” (Isa 6:11b-12). But God, in His sovereignty and grace, would preserve a remnant of His people alive (Isa 6:13). According to Earl Radmacher, “The more the prophet would proclaim the word of God, the less response he would get from the people. This was a call to a discouraging ministry. In truth, the call of God is for faithfulness to Him, to His Word, and to the call itself.”[5] Warren Wiersbe offers a similar statement, saying, “God does not deliberately make sinners blind, deaf, and hard-hearted; but the more that people resist God's truth, the less able they are to receive God's truth. But the servant is to proclaim the Word no matter how people respond, for the test of ministry is not outward success but faithfulness to the Lord.”[6]      Jeremiah is another example of a godly servant who faithfully preached God's Word for twenty-three years, but his generation would not listen. Jeremiah said, “these twenty-three years the word of the LORD has come to me, and I have spoken to you again and again, but you have not listened” (Jer 25:3). The result was that Judah was destroyed by the Babylonians and went into captivity in 586 B.C. Biblically, we know God is gracious, compassionate, and slow to anger (Neh 9:17; Psa 86:15; 103:8); however, His gentle qualities do not last forever, and when people persist in their sin and there is no hope of them turning to Him, His judgment falls (Psa 9:7-8; 96:13; Acts 17:31).      Of course, there's no greater display of leadership than our Lord Jesus, Who spoke perfect truth all the time and called others to trust in Him and to follow Him. Jesus repeatedly offered His kingdom to the nation (Matt 4:19; 10:7); yet, the majority of those who heard His message rejected Him (Matt 12:24; John 3:19; 12:37), and He pronounced judgment upon that generation (Matt 23:37-39). The result was that Jerusalem was destroyed in A.D. 70 when the Romans attacked the city and destroyed the temple.      As God's people, we control the output of our message, but never the outcome. What the recipients do with God's Word is between them and the Lord. As God's children, we are to be faithful to learn His Word (2 Tim 2:15; 3:16-17; 1 Pet 2:2), communicate it in love to others (Eph 4:15), and then let it do its work in the hearts of those who hear (Isa 55:10-11). However, we realize this will result in mixed outcomes, depending on the hearts of others. Charles Spurgeon said, “The same sun that softens wax also hardens clay.” By this he meant that God's Word, which gives light like the sun, has different effects depending on the material exposed to it. The reality is that some hearts are positive to God (wax) and these grow soft when exposed to the light of His Word, but other hearts are negative to God (clay) and exposure to His Word only makes them harder. As God's people, we are only responsible for our output of lifestyle and message, not the outcome of results. God measures our success by our willingness to submit to Him and our faithfulness to walk with Him moment by moment, learning His Word and doing His will. We want to be among those whom Jesus says, “Well done, good and faithful slave” (Matt 25:21a).   [1] Earl D. Radmacher, Ronald Barclay Allen, and H. Wayne House, Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Commentary (Nashville: T. Nelson Publishers, 1999), 266. [2] Earl S. Kalland, “Deuteronomy,” in The Expositor's Bible Commentary: Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, ed. Frank E. Gaebelein, vol. 3 (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1992), 195. [3] Peter C. Craigie, The Book of Deuteronomy, The New International Commentary on the Old Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1976), 372. [4] Ibid., 373. [5] Earl D. Radmacher, et al., Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Commentary, 814. [6] Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Comforted, “Be” Commentary Series (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 30.

Берегитесь лицемерия-3 Евангелие от Луки – 150От Луки 12:8-12I. Масштаб лицемерия (The Extent of Hypocrisy)II. Заразность лицемерия (The Contagiousness of Hypocrisy)III. Вакцина от лицемерия (The Vaccine Against Hypocrisy) A. Лицемерие будет разоблачено (Hypocrisy Will be Exposed) B. Не бойтесь людей, но бойтесь Бога (Don't Fear Man, but Fear God) C. Ищите признание Христа, а не людей (Seek Christ's Recognition, not Man's) 1. Признание Христа ценнее, чем людей (Christ's Recognition is More Valuable than Man's) 2. Отвержение Христа трагичнее, чем людей (Christ's Denial is More Tragic than Man's)D. Ревнуйте о Божьем, а не о людском (Be Zealous for the Things of God, not the Things of Man)Е. Утешайтесь Господом, а не людьми (Be Comforted in The Lord, not in Man)

1. How to Embrace the Kingdom of God2. How to Be Comforted

1. How to Embrace the Kingdom of God2. How to Be Comforted

Be Comforted! You are not alone! In this message Pastor Newland shares from scripture that the Holy Spirit is available to come alongside believers to bring us comfort, hope, instruction and so much more.

Hey, friends, it's our 100th Episode!!!! We are so excited to have reached this mark! We are also very excited to have our guest for today….Christy Nockels! Can you even believe it?!? Christy has been a worship leader, singer, and songwriter for several decades. She also has her own podcast, Glorious in the Mundane. If that's not enough, she has a book she's written called, The Life You Long For, and has a new album close to release. Christy shared with us about her scary season of being faced with hearing loss after a virus. This hearing loss was thought to be permanent; however, God is still the God of miracles! She shares her journey with us today, and we are so thankful for her heart for the Lord and how He has used her gifts for His glory. Christy Nockels Biography: As a worship leader for over 25 years, Christy Nockels would tell you that her heart is to simply lead others to connect and communicate with the living God. Christy began writing music and singing in the church at a young age, as the daughter of a pastor in Oklahoma. She met musician, Nathan Nockels, in 1993 at the Christian Artist Seminar in Estes Park, Colorado and the two married in 1995. The couple would form the Christian music duo, Watermark, touring nationwide and recording five acclaimed albums, including seven number one radio singles from 1998 to 2005, before laying down their Watermark journey for the sake of their family. Christy and Nathan were also among those invited by Louie and Shelley Giglio to be a part of the very first Passion Conference in Austin, TX, in 1997, which flourished into a fruitful twenty years of the couple songwriting and leading for the Passion Movement. Christy's voice and heart can be heard on songs like, “Waiting Here For You,” as well as her songwriting featured on church anthems like, “Lord, I Need You,” and “Healing is in Your Hands.” Christy now records for Keeper's Branch Records, the couple's independent record label, where they've enjoyed releasing fan-favorites like Be Held; Lullabies for the Beloved. Christy also launched a podcast in 2016 called, “The Glorious in the Mundane,” which is intentionally focused on helping women in any season of life, find the wonder and awe of God in the moments of the here and now. Christy and Nathan live in Franklin, TN where they love to gather around the farm table and even make music with their three children, Noah, Elliana and Annie Rose. They also love to spend time making their home, affectionally called Keeper's Branch, a place of rest for all who gather there. Recommended Resources and Songs Referenced: John 15 Abide, by Aaron Williams River of Grace, by Christy Nockels How Big You Are, by Christy Nockels Be Loved, by Christy Nockels By Our Love, by Christy Nockels Robin's Top 22 Favorite Christy Nockels songs: You Are My Stronghold, Waiting for You, Everything, Glory Baby, How Big You Are, Let It Be Jesus, Peace, By Our Love, Everything Is Mine In You, More Than You'll Ever Know, Arise and Be Comforted, My Heart Your Home, Driven to Humility, Where to Find Me, Amaryllis, Carry Your Name, A Grateful People, Incorruptible, Freedom Song, Be Loved, Who Am I, Jesus Rock of Ages #afrayedknotpodcast #100episodes #Abide, #miraculoushealing

Join Mark Call of Shabbat Shalom Mesa fellowship for a two-part look at parsha 'Vayeshev,' (Genesis/Bereshiet chapters 37 through 40) and the first installment in the story of the life of Yosef, or Joseph, and what ultimately emerges as the 'origin story' of the two lines of kings that become the two houses, and outline an important picture of divisions that still persist today. First, the Erev Shabbat overview of the entire portion: https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/hebrewnation/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/27203012/SSM-11-26-21-Vayashev-teaching-podcast-xxx.mp3 During the Sabbath Day teaching, Mark observes that sometimes it can be the 'small parts' of the story that may provide the clues that help us understand not only the character of the players involved, but an insight into how what might seem very different about their lives and challenges can guide us today. Who actually took Yosef out of that pit, and sold him to the Ishmaelites? Was it his brothers, or the Midianites? And does it really matter? Maybe, but not for the reason we might have thought. And we probably know that Joseph has been called the 'suffering servant,' and a "type and shadow" of at least one 'aspect' of the Messiah, a.k.a., Meshiach ben Yosef. He endured hardships in order to be in place to save many lives, including those who sold him into slavery. Today, we face what may be the biggest act of mass murder in human history, and a precursor to the coming "Mark of the Beaat," as well. Any parallels there? "Vayeshev: Sometimes It's Vital to Refuse to Be Comforted" https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/hebrewnation/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/27202624/WT-CooH-11-27-21-Vayashev-Refuse-to-be-comforted-podcast-xx.mp3 The combined two-part podcast is here:

Conflict until the Coming Age . . . I. A Historical King as a Prototype for Coming Anti-Christ & His Abominations! (11:21-45) II. Ongoing Tribulations as a Prototype for Coming Great Tribulation and Final Judgment! III. A View and Framework for End Times Events! o The Rapture of the Church (?; 1 Thess 4:16-17) o Great Tribulation (Rev 6-18) o The Return of Christ (Rev 19:9-18) o The Millennial Kingdom (Rev 20:1-10) o The Great White Throne (Rev 20:11-15) o The Eternal State (Rev 21) Practical Implications o Be Ready: o Be Faithful: o Be Comforted: o Be Bold:

Take a Moment to Calm Yourself, Diffuse a Heated Discussion and Hear Guidance. Be Comforted and Encouraged by Listening to Your Inspired Intuitiveness and Seeking Answers. Be Kind and Filled with Joy!

God Knew You Before He Created You. Be Comforted!

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Isaiah 40:1-11 – “Be Comforted, My People” The post Isaiah 40:1-11 – “Be Comforted, My People” appeared first on Princeville Presbyterian Church.

God is our comforter, strengthening us while we walk through this life. No matter how many troubles you might encounter, God has a plan of comfort already underway! Not only will you BE Comforted, but you are being prepared to BECOME Comfort for someone else.

Happy Mean Girls Day!!! Get ready to celebrate with your favorite Unfriendly Black Hotties.  Look Back At It [1:26]: UBH recently had its third birthday! CT and KW spend time reflecting on the things they've discovered along the way. Hey Facts Tho [9:07]: Oyez oyez oyez! The Hotties have prepared a veritable feast of facts to dazzle and delight you. Be Comforted [29:05]: CT and KW chat about the pop culture treats that are keeping them going during this trying time in US history. And as always, the Hotties have culture aplenty to get involved with [44:54]. Join them, won't you? This episode contains swearing and the N word. Music is courtesy of Ryan Little. Find more of his work here: freemusicarchive.org/music/Ryan_Little/. Find links and sources at theblackhotties.com. Follow CT & KW on Twitter jointly @theblackhotties, and individually @c_gracet & @thatblasiangirl. Links Armadillos are the real victims.  Metal moths #NoKavanaugh Beetles are also pretty metal in retrospect Shawty lemme dilate that time for ya Why Is This Happening? With Chris Hayes Little Dark Age by MGMT  

Isaiah 40 The post Be Comforted appeared first on Seneca Baptist.

This lesson begins a close look at a climactic set of verses from Isaiah. Discussing the passage from Isaiah 52:13-53:12, Dr. Warren Wiersbe opens a chapter in his commentary Be Comforted with this paragraph: "These five matchless stanzas of the fourth Servant poem are the Mt. Everest of messianic prophecy.” So wrote Old Testament scholar Dr. Kyle M. Yates over fifty years ago, and his words still stand. This passage is at the heart of chapters 49–57, and its message is at the heart of the Gospel. Like Mt. Everest, Isaiah 53 stands out in beauty and grandeur, but only because it reveals Jesus Christ and takes us to Mt. Calvary."  Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). Be Comforted (p. 130). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.