Christmas Blessings from Shekinah Path

Blessing God for His Help

Psalms 28:7 in the NKJV says, "The LORD Yahweh is my strength and my shield; My heart trusted in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart greatly rejoices, And with my song I will praise Him."

This verse of David speaks so much! First David rightfully recognizes the Almighty as his strength and his shield. This gives us the idea of Yah's power to both intervene and shield us from evil. Secondly King David confirms his heartfelt trust by saying "I am helped". Spoken in the past tense, he is confirming that as far as he is concerned, it has already been done for him. Do we have faith like that? Do we trust that our Heavenly Father will always help us when we call out to Him? David did!

Notice what David says next. He is glad in his heart and rejoices by magnifying God with a song of praise. How often do we do that? I mean we pray and pray for something and then when God does it for us, do we remember to thank Him with our whole heart as David did? See, our Creator gave us all of these wonderful gifts to show gratitude and praise for His loving care. Many of us can sing and some of us can even play an instrument. Can't we direct some of that talent back to bless the One who gave it to us in the first place? We can sing of His wonders and even proclaim the Lord Messiah's Gospel to a world in dire need.

If we are truly thankful for all that Yah has done for us, such as His help, forgiveness of sins and salvation through His Son, Yahshua, (which means "Yah's Salvation") we will find ways to express our joy. He our AWESOME GOD and so worthy of praise!

A City on a Hill

"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden;" Matthew 5:14

Yahshua's own words proclaim that WE are the light of the world. There is a lot of focus on HIM which is only appropriate but not if it takes away from hearing his WORDS. Think of the Menorah, the lamp stand used in the temple and now for Hanukkah.

If you notice, the Menorah has a center light that is higher than the rest. It is used to light all of the other oil lamps or candles on the branches. Yahshua is that middle light, the foremost of the world:

"In him was life, and that life was the light of men." John 1:4

The reason for the Messiah's coming was to spread that light to us. WE are that city on a hill! Our purpose is light up this dark world with HIS Gospel. Not so much the Gospel about Yahshua but the Gospel of Yahshua, namely what he taught. It is quite clear to see that the main focus of his teachings was the Kingdom of God and its righteous rule. We then, should be beacons lighting the way for people to find it. In fact, Jesus said that this was something for us to seek first:

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33

I Say: Merry Christmas!

I saw a video on Facebook today showing a Flash Crowd doing a portion of Handel's Messiah replete with Hallelyah Chorus! It was glorious but made me think back to a time not very long ago where I learned that 1700's composition for an Christmas Concert performed in a public school.

We all know from secular history that this country was founded on the bedrock of Judeo-Christian beliefs. So when did we become an atheist nation, afraid to mention our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? The truth is ... we didn't. There are certain voices in the liberal media trying to dictate and rather harshly so, what Americans are supposed to believe.

This sort of intimidation includes ridicule and singling out Biblical beliefs as being "myths". This is serious because it is our faith in Yahshua's words that will either save or judge us:

"There is a Judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day." John 12:48

No way of getting around it. Yahshua believes the Law and the Prophets because he said he came not to abolish the writings of Moses but to fulfill it:

"Don't misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose." Matthew 5:17

All of that which was written was a foretaste of the glory and redemption to come! So, Jesus wasn't ashamed to believe the Law and the Prophets. Now that his work has been accomplished, we shouldn't be either. We are NOT a nation of agnostics and atheists no matter what the mainstream media would have us believe. Think for yourself and don't let anyone quiet you for your beliefs. Freedom of Speech is part of our National Heritage. So I say, "Merry CHRISTmas"!

Heart Matters

"May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight Oh Yah!" Psalm 19

Yahshua was more concerned with a man's heart than his outside actions. In fact he made a point to show that it is not what goes into a man's mouth that defiles him but what comes out! What is inside definitely will come to the surface:

"Out of the fullness of the heart, the mouth speaks." Matthew 12:24

Listen to someone or yourself speak and you will quickly see where the deepest thoughts and affections lay. If we are always talking about money, material things and our pleasures, well, there you have it! If we bless God and then curse people who are made in His image, we are showing which is the dominant spirit within us. God really can't do His work within us if we allow our thoughts and motivations to be dominated by the flesh.

We know that Yahshua is our righteousness and his finished work is enough to prepare us for the Kingdom, still in order for that set apart spirit to dwell richly within us, we must examine our hearts. People may say, "Follow your heart!" but the course of wisdom is to lead it.

A Thankful Thanksgiving

"...and be thankful!"

This is the time of year that we are supposed to do that. When I see the glorious blaze of fall colors, the geese fattened up for their migration and all the lovely vegetables and flowers, I can't help but bless God for them all. Thanksgiving is about having an attitude of gratitude for all God has given us. Really every good and perfect gift comes down to us from our Heavenly Father through Christ. Still there is something more our Creator wishes to give us.

"Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful." Colossians 3:15

So what is robbing you of your peace? Worries and anxious thoughts over the Bush Tax Cuts? Perhaps your health is not what it should be. Maybe your finances are a mess and family members or friends are mistreating you. Whatever it is, this is not God's will for us to be worried, afraid and apprehensive about the future. We are told:

"Casting all your care on him; for he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7

When we do this, then we can invite God's peace to rest on us. With that peace should come a thankful heart for all that Yah does for us each day down to the smallest details. The Bible says He opens His hand and satisfies the desires of every living thing. How much more so will He care for those made in His image and subject to Yahshua? Jesus trusted Him and now we can also!

"You open Your hand And satisfy the desire of every living thing." Psalm 145:16

This is something that we surely can be thankful for! The peace that we have comes from a lifetime of trusting in God, looking back on all He has done to preserve, guide and bless us. This gives us rest and confidence in His future provisions seen or unseen. Yes, and be thankful!

Compassion

"[It is of] Yahweh's loving kindnesses that we are not consumed, because his compassion doesn't fail." Lamentations 3:22

How awesome to know that even when our faith and power to do good fails, our Heavenly Father's does not! This is because of who HE IS:

"If we are faithless, he remains faithful. He can't deny himself." 2 Timothy 2:13

What God looks for however is a contrite and honest spirit. One that acknowledges our inability to be sinless on our own. Self-righteousness is one of the main things Yahshua cited the Pharisees on during his ministry. Why? Well, when we are so full of ourselves, there is no room for God to fill us with His spirit. Not only that, we can become cruel and lacking in compassion of others who like everyone except Yahshua have sinned and missed the mark of full obedience to God:

²³ for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, Romans 3:23

So if we recognize our own short-comings, it will be easier to reach out to others with the Good News of God's Kingdom. People need to know that right now they can have peace with the Creator of the Universe through His Son. We can and should show the same compassion towards them as Yah has shown us!

"for through the Messiah, God was reconciling the world to himself by not counting their sins against them. He has committed his message of reconciliation to us." 2 Corinthians 5:19

Are You Ashamed?

"If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels." Luke 9:26

This may sound harsh but one of the ways that we show that we love the Son of Man, Yahshua, is to obey his words and tell others about him. If we are not willing to do that because of being afraid of what others may say or do, can we say we really love him? Love is based on action. Many saints in the First Century chose to be thrown to wild animals or burned rather than deny their Lord Messiah. Today in many Islamic, Hindu and atheist countries, Christians who profess Yahshua are often persecuted, have their goods taken away and are imprisioned. Do we have the same "stuff" and determination to preach the Messiah's message no matter what the cost?

For you had compassion on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. Hebrews 10:34

The silver lining in this cloud is the hope of a better possession and an abiding one. All the glory, riches and social advantages we enjoy now are soon to pass away. They are not enduring and will do us no good when we come face to face with the Master. So we may have to ditch being "politically correct" in favor of telling the Gospel of Yahshua which contends that there is only ONE way to the Father.

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6

If we are ashamed to proclaim this simple truth, then we have denied who Jesus truly is and his agency as Savior. There are times that we have to part company with the crowd and speak what is right, no matter how unpopular the message may be.

The Cost

"About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them." Acts 16:25

When you think about it, Paul & Silas' faith is what helped land them in jail in the first place! Still we don't blame our Heavenly Father when we suffer for standing up for the Good News. After all every Christian is called to preach and Yahshua said we would be persecuted for it:

Remember the word that I said to you... If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you... because they do not know Him who sent Me." John 15:21

So it is a lack of knowledge of the One True God that fuels this opposition as well as Ha Satan desire that people will continue to be ignorant of the Father's plan for salvation. Even so, Yah takes no pleasure in the death of wicked people even when they oppress His servants:

"Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord God: and not that he should return from his way and live? For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore, turn yourselves, and live ye."--Ezek. 18:23, 32.

Really how can people turn if they have not heard and how can they hear if no one goes out and speaks? I mean, somebody's got to do it!

"How then shall they call upon him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe on him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without one who preaches?" Romans 10:14

So sometimes that's just the way it rolls. God is not going to shield us from everything unpleasant. It's the price of doing business for God's Kingdom but whatever the outcome, we should be rejoice in being counted worthy to suffer for our faith while asking for even more courage to KEEP on preaching. After all, lives are at stake.

"And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word." Acts 4:29

PHOTO: Christian recording artist Natalie Grant performing at RevGen 2010.

Treasure in Clay Pots

It is so wonderful to know that even when we are unfaithful, Yah is not. Just because we are having a bad day or a lapse of faith does not change His promises to us.

"If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself." 2 Timothy 2:13

This is in part because He knows we are a work in progress. More importantly, since He is our Creator, He is intimately aware of how we are made.

"for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust." Psalm 103:14

This is why Yahshua Ha Messiah is perfect for the office of King, High Priest and Mediator. He suffered through all the temptations that are common to fallen flesh:

Hebrews 4:15—'For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin."

Yahshua pleads for us at his Father's throne, knowing just how difficult it is to remain faithful through every type of temptation. Doubt, fear, forebodings from without and within all can undermine our faith...for a season. All the same, we can overcome because HE overcame. The point is to trust Yahshua to prepare us for God's Kingdom. If we do that, Jesus will give us his righteous spirit received from the Father which will begin to transform us into vessels holding great treasure.

"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves." 2 Corinthians 4:7

Remember that an earthen vessel starts out as dust or clay. If we yield to the Potter's hand, we can find ourselves transformed into reflections of his glory!

Intercession

"And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven." James 5:15

I think about how gracious our Heavenly Father is. How rich in mercy and love to allow us to interact and be part of another believer's restoration, forgiveness and healing. There are points here to show that these would only be accessible to true worshipers. Note that it is a prayer offered in faith that will make a sick person well. We know that this isn't an absolute promise because Paul speaks of a fellow believer by the name of Epaphroditus being extremely sick almost to the point of dying:

"For indeed he was sick to the point of death, but God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, so that I would not have sorrow upon sorrow." Philippians 2:27

He wasn't instantly or miraculously healed but his recovery took time. Still Paul gave thanks as we should also. I'm sure Epaphroditus was surrounded and known by other Christians who were praying for him. We shouldn't lose heart just because we are not suddenly well or cured of a disease or illness for even in 1st Century times, that didn't always happen.

Notice too the opening verse from James says, "IF he has sinned it will be forgiven him". Some may think that sinning will cause God to curse you with sickness. This verse shows that this is not true although illness may be the natural outcome of reckless living and unclean sexual practices.

We can also see the interlacing of each other's lives within the Body of Christ. Paul thanked Yah for being merciful to his friend AND himself. Due to his deep brotherly love, the possible loss of Epaphroditus would have been sorrow upon sorrow for Paul. Do we have that kind of "agape" or selfless love for others in the assembly of Yahweh? If we do, we will find it easy to pray and intercede for those whom we haven't even met who are suffering from sickness, mistreatment and persecution. This is the compassionate love the Father has for us through Yahshua Messiah. This is the same kind of love we must exhibit to those within the Body of Christ.

The Outsiders

"John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in your name; and we forbade him, because he follows not with us." Luke 9:49

Reading on after this, you'll see that Yahshua was not pleased with his disciples' actions:

"But Jesus said to him, "Do not hinder him; for he who is not against you is for you." Luke 9:50

There are so many denominations, doctrines, sects and factions in the Body of Christ. Each of them is puffed up in believing that only they have the truth! They have all taken their eyes off the truth who is Yahshua himself! They want to supplant him as God's agent of salvation by saying you can only be saved by joining their "club". Not true! That is SO not what Jesus taught! Just as the man who the disciples hindered had faith in the authority of Yahshua's name & teachings, anyone today who believes in him has that same access. You will note that this rebuke came at a time when the disciples themselves could not cast out a demon who was tormenting an epileptic boy. They had just botched an exorcism but thought it proper to forbid someone else who was being successful!

"Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not." Mark 9:18

So it goes on today. We need to stop criticizing and demonizing each other. Yahshua knows who are his own and he says bless, do not curse. There is no reason to try thwart someone's ministry when it follows the Word of God because the Bible tells us if it is of men, it will fail. However if it is from Yah, you may find yourself fighting against God.

Who is Like Our God?

Who then is like our El, (God), Yahweh of Hosts? There are so many wonderful attributes of the One True El that we can praise and acknowledge. Did you know that the Muslim god, Allah is given many wonderful features but is never, ever called "Love"? Allah is the Moon god of Saudi Arabia and his worshipers believe in the Koran as their holy book. The Bible speaks of trading the image or glory of the One True God for the abasement that can only come from the worship of false gods.

"and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles". Romans 1:23

This includes the worship of created things such as the sun and moon:

"They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator--who is forever praised. Amen." Romans 1:25

This means that the glory that we could have has been bartered for something much less luminous. This will effect not only our world view but how we treat others. Yahshua said that his followers would be characterized by love. Since Yahshua reflects his Heavenly Father so perfectly, we would recognize and respond to love immediately.

"Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." 1 John 4:8

So who is like our God? Well, first Yahshua because he gave his life so that we might live in a renewed relationship with the Father and then those who truly love God and others. If we submit to Yahshua, we will find ourselves being changed into the image of Yahweh just as he is.

"The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation." Colossians 1:15

So we are given this wonderful promise if we are in Messiah, (Christ):

And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18

The Potter's Hand

"I am the potter, you are the clay." Many of us have read this but do we know the original context and scripture this thought is found in? Here is where it comes from:

“O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter has done? declares the LORD. Behold, like the clay in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel." Jeremiah 18:6

Those of us who belong to Yah through His Son, Yahshua have the prospect of being molded to God's purposes. The house of Israel was in a covenant relationship which they freely entered into at Mt. Sinai. Those of us who have been purchased under the better covenant through Yahshua's blood have the same prospect although now God's Son is the agent through whom the molding takes place. This is why Paul stresses the importance of the building up and uniting of Christ's Body which is his assembly or church.

"from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love." Ephesians 4:16

Like a body builder, Yahshua builds his body up! He is the head of the body and hence still part of it but he molds and sculpts each part, each individual so that we grow in faith and support each other in love. Yah is still the originator of this power to transform but He has given it to His Son to mold us to be co-heirs in God's Kingdom. Once set by the potter's hand we can say:

"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." 2 Corinthians 4:7

Who Am I?

Then he asked them, "But who do you say I am?" Peter replied, "You are the Messiah." Yahshua asked this question of his disciples because he wanted to gauge their faith in God's promise to Moses which was this:

"I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers; I will put my words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him." Deuteronomy 18:18

Didn't Yahshua fit that description? Look at his genealogy as cited in the Book of Luke. He is a Jew! "A prophet like you from your brothers", means he would be a Hebrew man like Moses. Regarding having the Father's words put into his mouth, Yahshua said:

"I know that His commandment is eternal life; therefore the things I speak, I speak just as the Father has told Me." John 12:50

Yahshua is citing the source of eternal life which included his own because he was not immortal. He could not truly die for us if he wasn't but immortality has been given to him as a reward by the Father. Secondly he confirms who he is by saying that he speaks just as the Father has told him. So I believe Yahshua asks us the same question today. When Peter said, "The Messiah!" Mark 8:29, we should realize that Yahshua said Peter was correct! Attempting to add to or alter that answer based on later traditions and surmised doctrines will always be a mistake.
The Messiah=Son of God=King of Israel who will rule the earth from that Kingdom.

Better is One Day

Psalm 84:10-12 says:

Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. 11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. 12 O LORD Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you.

Now the position of doorkeeper is a lowly one. Not much prestige but it is in fact the role of a servant. Still the psalmist prefers this subservient role for ONE DAY over thousands elsewhere in lofty circumstance.

Sometimes we can get off track thinking that our Heavenly Father owes us material blessings. The first century followers of Yeshua found out very quickly that they were to pick up their torture stake and walk after him. Paul even wrote of those who had their material goods taken away for the cause of the Good News. Hebrews 10:34 Paul so states...

34 For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.

That doesn't quite sound like the name it - claim it doctrine being preached today! The focus should not be on the temporal pleasures and "toys" of this world but in the vigorous proclaiming of God's plan of salvation and coming earthly rule by Yeshua. In this way we show that we prefer one day in God's courts within a servant's role over the glitz and passing affections of this world.

Summertime

Summertime is perhaps my favorite season! I enjoy the beach, especially swimming in the ocean. I've even had the opportunity to sail to Nantucket Island off the coast of Cape Cod and take a whale watching cruise off the coast of Maine. The New England states are oppressively hot in the summer though. When we are refreshed by the living water Yeshua promised, we won't mind the seasons when it comes to the ministry.

It reminds me of Psalm 1:3 when King David said:

"And he shall be like a tree which is planted near the running waters, which shall bring forth its fruit, in due season. And his leaf shall not fall off: and all whosoever he shall do shall prosper."

I look for Yah to prosper me in my spiritual walk, in my music ministry and in my life. In fact He has told me, "I will prosper you." Now I may not be able to see how or even when God will do this for me but with eyes of faith, I am standing on His promises. I know that whatever I need will be supplied including the strength to keep faithful during the summer months and beyond.

Got Joy?

With all of the things we have to accomplish in our busy lives, one thing we should never forget to do is rejoice! I mean what is the point of having a relationship with such a loving, compassionate Heavenly Father if we can't stop and smell the roses of His blessings?

"The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17

Just knowing that Yah will rejoice over us with singing should encourage to rejoice over HIS salvation with the same degree of enthusiasm. I can't believe He gave us all of these diverse emotions simply to suppress or ignore. People have no problem expressing themselves at a soccer game or rock concert. Why is it we suddenly get so self conscious during worship?

Really, if someone has tasted and seen how good God really is, rejoicing isn't an option.... it's mandatory!

"Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again--rejoice!" Philippians 4:4

"Let the redeemed of the Lord say so". We are the redeemed and our "say so" is our testimony of thankfulness to Almighty God through His Son, Yeshua. We can thank them both but all praise and honor eventually go to the Father because He set Yeshua in that high position. Now Yeshua Ha Messiah in turn sets us in our positions of service in his kingdom to come. This is truly something to jump up and shout about so be filled with joy and get your praise going!

Be Prepared

Lazy summer days! Oh how tempting it is to take off from the ministry and relax as you see my guitar doing here. Still, we are told to be prepared to minster in season and out of season:

"Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage--with great patience and careful instruction." 2 Timothy 4:2

It is pretty obvious that Satan doesn't take a vacation from evil so how can we ever abandon doing good? Now I'm not talking about taking a well needed rest. Yeshua and his disciples often did that but even so they did not take their eyes off the most important thing....preaching the Word of God. Even while resting at the well, Yeshua reached out to a Samaritan woman with the offer of life everlasting.

Whoever drinks this water will get thirsty again;
But anyone who drinks the water that I shall give
will never be thirsty again:
The water that I shall give
will turn into a spring inside welling up to eternal life. John 4:13

As tired and thirsty as he was, he cared enough to extend himself just a little bit more. The result? Not only did the Samaritan woman believe but so did the others living in her community. They relied not on her testimony, but came out themselves to see if Yeshua was indeed the Messiah. This is such a great example for today when many are tempted to self indulge or "take it easy". We can ask Yah and His Son Yeshua for eyes to see opportunities to bless and spread the Gospel message with those who are thirsting no matter if in good season or bad.

Don't Forget About Me

Out of sight, out of mind? Unfortunately today with so many varying distractions vying for our attention, this can become quite the case. That is why I like to unplug and just get outside in God's creation. These daily visual ques prompt feelings of gratitude, respect and worship in the believer. If a person does not yet have such faith, it should at least cause that person to ask, "What is the purpose of life and why am I here?"

Likewise in times of trouble, we can begin to focus on the problem rather than our Deliverer. We run ourselves ragged, going in circles trying to figure out what WE are going to do. Isn't it so much better to trust our Heavenly Father and His Son to provide all that we need at just the right time? I am a witness of God's perfect timing in my life. Even when I could not see how things would work out, I knew they would work out. Setting my heart on my Redeemer and not my circumstance is so liberating! Yah wants to restore us but we have to look to Him wholeheartedly:

"For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the Lord..." Jeremiah 30:17

This requires patience and an attitude of faith because all of this works out towards our edification. Just as a lump of coal becomes a diamond under immense pressure, so our spiritual character is developed. Just think if we never got into trouble, how could we know and appreciate God's delivering hand in our lives? The goal is not to forget about God by going our own way, especially in times of trouble.

"For my people have forgotten me, they have burned incense to false gods ; and they have been made to stumble in their ways, in the ancient paths, to walk in bypaths, in a way not cast up;" Jeremiah 18:15

Notice this verse says they have been made to stumble in their ways for having forgotten Yahweh. Yes, if we forget our Heavenly Father, we will stumble on our own. That is because our reasoning is not as His is. Even though Yeshua was a son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered, (Hebrews 5:8). Our Heavenly Father waits to offer help and refuge to those humble enough to admit their need. God wants us to come to Him with any and every matter. In fact He makes this very clear:

"If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." James 1:5

So ASK God and do not forget Him in your future plans and times of trouble. No matter what the situation, HE has the answer and wants to give His children the best of advice.

Give Me the Roses

This being Mother's Day weekend, I will tell you, as a Mom, what we really want on "our day". First of all we want to be remembered. A call, email or even a text message will suffice. Just being thought about on Mother's Day isn't enough. We need to see those thoughts take some form of action so a card or communication from another route is very important to us.

The second thing I like for Mother's Day is not to have to cook! I do most of the cooking on a daily basis. I really don't want to have to plan a Mother's Day meal that day too. I mean what is the point of that? Yeah! I get to knock myself out even more on what is supposed to be a day off. When someone else brings home something already deliciously prepared, it is SO appreciated.

The third thing is loving kindness throughout the year. People often think they can cancel out a year of neglect and ignoring their mother by spending a lot on elaborate gifts, most of which are never delivered in person. I know a lot of us Moms can be difficult and demanding. Still the Bible says honor your father and mother so that your days upon the earth may be long. No one knows Mothers better than God! Perhaps this is why He also said:

Listen to your father who begot you, And do not despise your mother when she is old. Proverbs 23:22

We sometimes get a little more difficult as we get older. Getting old is not for whimps which is why I wish nothing to do with it! Really, we should try to keep healthy as much as we can so that we will not be an unnecessary burden on our children. All the same Ecclesiastes says:

I returned to see under the sun that the swift do not have the race, nor the mighty ones the battle, nor do the wise also have the food, nor do the understanding ones also have the riches, nor do even those having knowledge have the favor; because time and unforeseen occurrence befall them all. Eccl. 9:11

The best laid plans may go awry due to accidents, natural or man made disasters and other events beyond our control. Give us Moms the roses while we are alive. Love and honor us while we are here to appreciate it. Of all the gifts, these are the most precious to a mother's heart.

What's My Focus?

These days it is so easy to focus on the negative, daunting things of this world. Sometime we think that the more time and attention we give such things, the better it will all turn out! Fact is, all the worrying, pondering and plotting in the world can not change the behavior of someone else. Still that is what makes life interesting. We all have free will and the freedom to either obey or disobey our Heavenly Father. This also means that there is a potential to hurt and be hurt by others.

God Almighty, Yahweh of Armies is not a puppeteer! People ask, "Where was God on 9-11?" Really the question should be where were the terrorists' morals on 9-11? Man's inhumanity to mankind has long been documented. The Bible gives the reason why although many people don't wish to believe it:

The LORD smelled the pleasing aroma and said in his heart: "Never again will I curse the ground because of man, even though every inclination of his heart is evil from childhood. And never again will I destroy all living creatures, as I have done. Genesis 8:21

In Noah's time, many people were being hurt, abused and killed by the Men of Fame or Renown called Nephilim. These were mutant freaks of the ungodly union of fallen angels and women. These evil men forced God to intervene at that time. However as we see in the last sentence, God would never again destroy all life, (except those preserved in the ark of course), to punish evil. Another point is that not everyone at the time was an evil giant! There were human bystanders who never really responded to Noah's preaching enough to get in the ark.

We know now that the ark is symbolic of Yeshua, Ha Messiah. He is the vehicle of Yah's Salvation. In fact that is what his name, Yeshua means! This is how Yeshua is now the captain of our salvation. When we get on board with him, we obey HIM as commander and chief. A parallel is drawn between the fence sitting people then and those doing the same today:

Luke 17:26-27 (NIV) "Just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of the Son of Man. 27 People were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all."

This tells us that at Christ's second return, people will be going about their business as usual, focusing and fully involved only on the daily concerns of this world. Doing so will not change one's outcome at the time of Yeshua's arrival to rule. Answering his call now will.

Earth Day Everyday

I like to think of April as earth month because it is a time when we can really see our world in renewal mode. Day by day the sun stays in the sky a little longer as the temperatures warm gently.

I think of the amount of extravagance our Creator put into every type of life form. Some are microscopic and can not even be seen with the naked eye! What's up with that? My belief is that our Heavenly Father wants us to discover His many wonders. That takes effort but everything we see came from Him and ultimately belongs to Him. That includes us!

"A Psalm of David. The earth is the LORD’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein," Psalm 24:1

When we understand that the first man and woman were given stewardship of the earth, we see that it was held in trust for our care, use and enjoyment. Everything we see was made for a reason even if for the time, we are unable to see what purpose it may serve. We also need to acknowledge that just because we can not see that purpose at the time, it does not mean that a plant, bacteria or species, etc. lacks importance. Yah made and owns everything we see and even what don't.

"For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills." Psalm 50:10

God put these complex eco-systems in place for the animal's and plant's survival, even our own. So think. Just because you can't understand something now doesn't mean it lacks importance or value. The place a plant, bird or fish may have in its habitat may be inestimable. As much as possible, we should show respect and reverence for all of Yah's creation, seen or unseen. That will be our joyous task in His coming Kingdom. To care for this earth and the fullness thereof.

PRAYER: Bless You Almighty Yah, King of the Universe for all Your Creation and wisdom! Show me the best way to protect and respect the earth now and in the future. Amen

Friends of God

One of my favorite Praise & Worship songs is "I Am a Friend of God". The chorus goes, "I am a friend of God, He calls me friend!" Some people think that this is true simply because God is Love which is indeed His main attribute. However there is a reason why we can now be called friends of God as this was not the case for most people in times past. In fact the first person to be called "God's friend" was the patriarch Abraham from the land of Ur which is present day Iraq. Abraham is called a "friend of God" three times (2 Chronicles 20: 7, says, "O our God, did you not drive out the inhabitants of this land before your people Israel and give it forever to the descendants of Abraham your friend?" & Isa. 41: 8).

Abraham's friendship with God came as a result of his faith in God's promises to bless all nations through his seed. This intimate friendship did not come through Abraham's obedience to the law or even the covenant of circumcision as his righteousness before God was reckoned long before this.

"How was it reckoned? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision but in uncircumcision." Romans 4:10

It was Abraham's faith in the coming Messiah, who would be one of his descendants, that justified him before his Maker. In fact Romans 4:17 says that Yahweh appointed Abraham the father of many nations because he believed in a God "Who causeth the dead to live and calleth the things that are not as things that are." The things that were not included the promised seed of Abraham. Yeshua was not yet born nor was he in "Heaven with God" as part of some unbiblical "trinity". Abraham's faith in God's promise to rule the world by one of his seed or fleshly descendants was the cornerstone of that belief. God's creation of the Messiah in Mary's womb means that like Adam, Yeshua is the Son of God. Read Yeshua's geneology in Luke chapter 3 verse 38. It clearly says, son of Enos, son of Seth, son of Adam, son of God. The Messiah has always been anticipated to be 100% human. If he were not, then he could not fulfill what God promised to Abraham about one of his descendants ruling and blessing all the nations. If Yeshua were some immortal being, he also could not die because that is the definition of immortality... one who is not subject to death.

So if we believe that the Messiah's death, finished work, faithfulness and obedience were enough, we will have faith like Abraham that Yeshua will rule God's Kingdom. By this same declaration of faith, we too are friends of Yah!

"Having therefore been declared righteous by faith, let us have peace towards Yahweh through our Master Yeshua the Messiah." Romans 5:1

And Be Thankful

How many times to we ask, no beg God to give us something or help us? Now match that with just how many times we remember to thank Him when it comes to pass. There is so much we take for granted but it should not be that way.

So many times we are worried about a trip or task. We ask our Heavenly Father for help and strength. At the end of the day when all is done and we are safely at home, do we think of Him and what He has done? I would like to propose a change in our daily routine. Before you close your eyes to sleep, recount all of the loving things God has done. Nothing is too big or too small to thank Him for. We can especially thank Him for peace and resting in His loving care as members of the Body of Christ:

"¹⁵Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." Col. 3:15

I am convinced that this thankfulness brings peace and only the peace of Christ is true and tangible. We can become like Martha, concerned with many things when only one thing is needed. That is to sit at the feet of Yeshua and learn from him.

"But the Lord answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things;" Luke 10:41

We can also get off track worrying about temporal things. Facing certain death at the hands of his enemies, Yeshua asked his Father for HIS will to be done and not his own. The Father was pleased with Yeshua's prayer and because of his laying down his life for us, we now have access to that same perfect peace. Through Yeshua, we also have been assured that same perfect resurrection! Jesus is our Passover Lamb, once and for all time. When we let the peace of the Messiah rule in our hearts we will see that we have so much to be thankful for. Our lives will reflect the true peace within.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I thank you for everything that You have done for me today. I especially thank you the peace in my heart from Christ. In Yeshua's name I bless You!

Take Heart

There is a Proverb of great wisdom that I think applies today:

"When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan." Proverbs 29:2

Solomon's son, Rehoboam found this out the hard way when he taxed and made the yoke on his people Israel even heavier than this spendthrift father. How did the people react to his lack of compassion? Here is an except from Wikipedia:

"The people, led by Jeroboam feared that Rehoboam would continue to tax them heavily - as had his father Solomon. Jeroboam and the people promised their loyalty in return for lesser burdens. The older men counseled Rehoboam at least to speak to the people in a civil manner (it is not clear whether they counseled him to accept the demands), but the king sought advice from the people he had grown up with; they advised him to show no weakness to the people, and to tax them even more, which Rehoboam did. He proclaimed to the people,

"Whereas my father laid upon you a heavy yoke, so shall I add tenfold thereto. Whereas my father chastised (tortured) you with whips, so shall I chastise you with scorpions. For my littlest finger is thicker than my father's loins; and your backs, which bent like reeds at my father's touch, shall break like straws at my own touch."

Jeroboam and the people angrily rebelled; the ten northern tribes broke away and formed a separate kingdom, Israel, which was also known as Samaria, or Ephraim^. The realm Rehoboam was left with was called Judah, after the Tribe of Judah that formed the largest part of the population."

So Rehoboam was left with half of the Kingdom he once held. We all know that lying, bribes and special favors were also prominent in the government of that time. The widows and orphans were routinely cheated and abused. The Glory of Israel, Yah Almighty sent his prophets to tell them to mend their ways or face exile. They did not listen and so were scattered to the four corners of the globe. Only when King Yeshua returns will righteous government be fully realized over the earth.

Deut. 24:17 warned...."Do not deprive foreigners and orphans of their rights; and do not take a widows garment as security for a loan."

PRAYER: Almighty God, You care for all people but especially the weak and the oppressed. You oh Yah are the champion of all such ones who call on Your name! Give our nation righteous authorities who will govern according to Your will. In Yeshua's faith, Amen.

A Free Gift

One of the most telling accounts in Luke concerns a very short, dishonest and rich chief tax collector named Zacchaeus. He might have been all those things but he still wanted to see Yeshua, (Jesus). Unable to see above the throngs, he decided to run ahead and climb a Sycamore Fig Tree to get a glimpse of Yeshua as he passed by.

Can you imagine his surprise when Yeshua looked up and calling him by name, said for him to come down for he wanted to eat at his house that day? Well, this displeased the crowd greatly because tax collectors were counted in with sinners and traitors to the Jewish nation. They not only collected tribute for their oppressors but also added a bit more on to help line their own pockets. Zacchaeus was a chief tax collector so he did such things on a much larger scale than the others in the region.

Still Zacchaeus had one thing going for him. He really wanted to see Jesus and made a strident effort to do so. Almighty God does not look at a person's outward appearance but sees the heart. Zacchaeus' heart was being drawn by the Father. I am sure He revealed this to His Son Yeshua who said:

"No man can come to me, except the Father which has sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day." John 6:44

So that is why after being around Yeshua at his table, he felt ashamed and vowed to make amends for the money he stole from those he collected taxes from.

"Jesus responded, "Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham." Luke 19:9

Spending time with Jesus does that to a person! Those who really seek him have already been drawn by the Father. The gift for such faith is what Yeshua promised when he said that he would raise such ones up on the last day. Salvation came to Zacchaeus' house that day because of:
1. His FAITH

2. His repentant spirit

3. His willingness to act to conform his life to God's standards as taught by Yeshua

4. God's free GIFT of salvation is by grace not by works

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for drawing me to You through the blood of Yeshua. I believe that his finished work is enough to credit the gift of salvation to me, a true spiritual daughter of Abraham. In Yeshua's Faith, Amen.

All I Need

It is amazing to learn that despite all of my worrying, striving and effort, Almighty God stands ready to supply my every need! No issue or concern is too big or too small. It can be something with my health, emotional state or spiritual need. He wants us to come to Him and not lean on our own understanding. In fact the Bible indicates Yah is insulted when we look to other ways of obtaining help before asking Him. Here is what Elijah said to the then King of Israel, Ahaziah:

He said to him, "Thus says Yahweh, 'Because you have sent messengers to inquire of Baal Zebub, the god of Ekron, is it because there is no God in Israel to inquire of his word? Therefore you shall not come down from the bed where you have gone up, but shall surely die.'"2 Kings 1:16

Now we know that a King of Israel was commanded by Law to study the word of Yah day and night so that he might rule acceptably. That is why it is said to whom much is given, much is required. In that seat of authority and knowing what God said about following false gods, there was no excuse for his actions. In Ahaziah's heart, there was no God in Israel. He turned his back on the one true source of a positive response to his request. You see Ahaziah inquired of Baal Zebub as to whether or not he would recover from the illness in his feet. Rather than waste his time with Baal, (who did NOT help him), he should have asked Yahweh, the God of Israel to heal him. Just as the prophet Elijah foretold, he died.

God spoke of the wayward nation of Israel as no longer seeking His blessing. They turned instead to witchcraft which is also idolatry. They looked to other things to satisfy their temporal and spiritual needs. Do we do that today? Do we think we can get better advice about our future from a horoscope, Madam Zulu the spiritualist or some other demonic devising? When we choose these sources over consulting the ONE True God, He is rightfully insulted!

The Almighty made us in His image, male and female. He is deeply interested in every aspect of our lives. His son Yeshua delivers His set apart spirit which is the power to lead Godly lives. What more do we need? Really, HE is all I need!

Heavenly Father, You are my everything and Yeshua is my portion forever! Steady my heart to inquire of YOU as to all of my needs today. In Yeshua's name, amen.

Better Possessions

We take very much for granted living in the USA. Even in many developed European countries, you do not see the freedom of speech we have here. In fact one of the reasons why people migrated to the United States is because in their own countries, they were not allowed to think and believe freely. The state church was what everyone living in that country was to subscribe to.

This means if you read the Bible and came to a different opinion as to its interpretation than the church of the realm's doctrine, you were not only labeled a heretic but a traitor to the king! You were not allowed to be governed by your own conscience but what the authorities said you must believe. To this day in countries like China, the only legal Christians are those who subscribe to one of the three Self Churches which are operated by the atheist Chinese government! Many people have seen through this also and meet in secret using homes, fields and barns to avoid being detected. This is just what the former members of the Church of England under King James did. While death was seldom meted out, confiscation of goods and imprisonment were common. The Apostle Paul likewise saw this during his own time when the newly formed Church was being persecuted:

"For you both had compassion on me in my chains, and joyfully accepted the plundering of your possessions, knowing that you have for yourselves a better possession and an enduring one in the heavens." Hebrews 10:34

Sometimes, that's the way things will turn out. Our God is not a puppeteer controlling every move of our adversaries. Oftentimes for the sake of righteousness, when we speak out, we will suffer similar loses and mistreatment. What if Paul and the first members of the Body of Christ had kept silent? Notice however that such people have a better possession and an enduring one in the heavens. This means treasure that will not rust, fade or perish in fire. Yah sees and remembers those who love Him and stand up for His word which was given through His Son, Yeshua. Jesus is Yah's Salvation! That is what Yeshua or Joshua means. Everlasting life in God's Kingdom which will be established right here on earth is certainly a better possession than anything this passing world can offer.

PRAYER: Merciful Heavenly Father, let me be ready to give an answer for the hope that is in my heart both in season and out of season. Help me to stand up for Your truth regardless of what governments, peoples or religious groups may say. In Yeshua's faith, Amen.

His Grace is Enough

While performing at Body & Soul's Corner Cafe this month I was really blessed to hear other musicians with different styles. However, we all share one thing. A love for our Heavenly Father and His Son Yeshua! That is one of the reasons why we will practice, travel and perform free of charge at venues like this. There really is a battle going on. One for the hearts and minds of people who need to hear the true Gospel and respond to God's one time offer.

"Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth." Psalm 110:3

Sing it, speak it, dance it. There are so many ways to praise and magnify what Yah has done through His Son. Now is not the time to be complacent but to get involved. God does not need anything from us really. However He does appreciate heartfelt worship and the extension of His grace by telling others what He has done for us in Christ. That now through Yeshua's finished work we can be called the righteousness of God!

"God's righteousness through the faithfulness of Jesus the Messiah- for all who believe. For there is no distinction among people," Romans 3:22

Notice there is no distinction between those who believe. Pious acts, ritual and ceremony make no difference even though many still feel the need to "make themselves" righteous before God. If that were the case or even possible, what was Yeshua's sacrifice for?

"Listen! I, Paul, tell you this: If you are counting on circumcision to make you right with God, then Christ will be of no benefit to you." Galatians 5:2

Many want to rely on themselves instead of Yeshua. This is a big mistake because we end up in a cycle of dead works to prove our worthiness to Yah. Salvation through faith in Yeshua is a free gift and a loving example of God's grace. What we could not be justified from by the Law of Moses, we are now freed from by Jesus obedient life and atonement.

"And by him, (Jesus), all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses." Acts 13:39

This means that tithing doesn't do it. Reciting pre-written prayers doesn't do it. Belonging to a church doesn't do it either. Legalistic believers like to fall back on James' "Faith without works is dead". However, this is not talking about our salvation but how faith should manifest itself. Relying on works for a right standing with Yah is to set aside what the Messiah has already accomplished for us.

PRAYER: Father I thank you for anointing Yeshua to complete what I could not do for myself. He is the only mediator between You and man so let me rest in that and rely on Your grace, not my own works. In Yeshua's faith, Amen.

Snowbound

Winter snowstorms are here! Blizzards and being snowed in are part of the season. Still it reminds us that we are not in control of everything. All that we can do is prepare as best we can for the upcoming storms.

This does not mean that we can not stop to appreciate and enjoy snow's beauty and unique exhilaration. During the last snowstorm, we went snowshoeing. Visibility was not very good but the scenery was spectacular. The next day, the sun came out, the skies were clear and blue so we went cross country skiing. I saw a red headed woodpecker and a flock of mourning doves. Other birds were riding the draft high above the tree line. All of this natural beauty, free for the enjoying! The sunshine on my face and the spray of powder lifted my spirits which can tend to drag during the winter months. Each season God has made is beautiful and we should rejoice and thank Him for them all. Rather than hide from the weather, maybe we can take the time to go out and enjoy it.

Job 38.22-23 “Have you entered the storehouses of the snow, or have you seen the storehouses of the hail, which I have reserved for the time of trouble, for the day of battle and war?”

Sing Out!

I've truly been blessed! I've recently been asked to perform for a new concert series featuring praise and worship music. Body and Soul Christian Bookstore started holding free concerts for the community on their Corner Cafe stage. I am so pleased that these opportunities are opening up not only for me but for others with a love for God and His Son, Jesus. How about you? Can you sing or play an instrument? If you have this gift, you can use it to bless your surrounding community and those living in it. Here is what the Bible says is the result of publicly praising and worshiping the One True God:

"He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what He has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in Yahweh." (Psalm 40:3)

God can and will give you a new song to sing to praise Him. When we do this, people will see and hear of what He has done and step back in awe. Then the scripture says they will put their trust in Yah. What could possibly be better than that? See Yeshua, (Jesus), said that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. God does so much for us each day. Is it possible to articulate His praise with a new song? Sure it is! Sometimes we have to just trust and go out on a limb. We can over think....I don't have the voice, musical skills, equipment, etc. The list goes on and on. Once we look to Yah to supply what we need to bless His name, we will find that there is no shortfall! If nothing else, we should go forward because as King David said:

"I will sing to Yahweh, for He has been good to me." (Psalm 13:6)

If you have tasted and seen that our Heavenly Father is good, you too have something to sing about and much to share with others. God has blessed us with His unfailing love, life, good food, clothing and a home. We also have people to love in the Body of Christ. So my heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast: I will sing and make music!

PRAYER: Gracious Yah, You are so good to me! Help me to share what is in my heart with songs of praise. Be glorified! In Yeshua's way, Amen.

True Peace!

Peace. Many define it is the absence of strife and conflict. Still there is more to peace than just what is not there. If you have accepted God's grace through His Son, the Messiah you can have peace that defies all comprehension. In fact Paul said this also:

"And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7

Our heart, (inner most feelings) and thoughts, (true motivation) will be guarded? What does that have to do with receiving peace? Really everything. Our minds often work overtime worrying, planning and trying to figure things out. This restlessness does not allow Yah's Spirit to work towards our becoming calm. We have not truly given our worries over to God if we continue to think about them. Also are we mindful and therefore thankful for what God has already done for us?

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful." Colossians 3:15

Yes, and be thankful! Now there's an original thought. See it is a thankful spirit that remembers past deliverance and trusts for the future. It is this well earned trust that allows us to have peace even in the face of horrible difficulties. We may not know how each event will turn out but we do know that Yah is always faithful and cares for us.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:6

Recalling Yah's goodness and provisions allows peace to be our overwhelming emotion and state of mind. Thanking Him for acts of mercy and love gives us strong assurance that He will do so again in our present circumstance. Hebrews 4:16 "So let us boldly approach the throne of grace. Then we will receive mercy. We will find grace to help us when we need it."

PRAYER: Gracious Heavenly Father. How many and bountiful are Your blessings! Thank you for providing for me in every way as I lay before Your Throne of grace my needs for today. In Yeshua's Name, Amen.

True Joy!

Everyone should have joy in their lives. The problem is, most of us are taught that "things" can bring it. Material things, sensory things, etc. However to find the deepest joy, we must go to the source of all good things. Only God knows how He made us and how to supply all of our deepest needs. That includes those that we do not even know about or fully understand.

We all know people who seem to have every possible benefit. Yet many people with such advantages are miserable, depressed and perhaps even suicidal. Why? Well, only Yah really knows the heart of His creation but much can depend on a person's expectations. We all misjudge many times in life. Things are seldom as wonderful as we have dreamed. In fact we may have overly inflated and unrealistic ideals for what we believe we should be or have. Two families have about the same income and monthly expenses. However one household can be struggling and miserable while the other, sailing along happily. Could it be that the family who is content with what they have is spending less reaching out for entertainment and other pleasures? Maybe the struggling family feels they must maintain a certain lifestyle in order to be content?

Unfortunately buying things has become a form of recreation for many people today. When funds are low and this is no longer an option, little is done to replace this activity. Feeling deprived, we may loose track of all the things we already have and don't use. What can maximize our satisfaction in what we already have? Think of sharing! If you already have a guitar, why not go an play it for someone who can not? If you already have a barbecue grill, why not invite someone over for a meal? The same thing for the many other luxuries and amusements we often take for granted. Someone else who does not have these things would be thrilled to share them! Yeshua set the example as a giver as opposed to a taker:

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." John 10:10

The abundant life Jesus is talking about here is a joyous relationship with his God and his Father who is also ours. We don't receive that until we start opening our hearts to giving. So the key to a joyful life is not in how much we can get but what we can share, such as the Kingdom message of the Messiah. Soon there will be no more horrible acts in nature, no more wicked acts of man. Greed and wars will be a thing of the past. Everyone will have the knowledge of Yahweh in their hearts which will be overflowing with happiness in sharing and blessing others.

PRAYER: Merciful Father in Heaven, please forgive me for seeking after material things and pleasures of life before You. Help me to see that only Your presence can bring me joy and to readily share what You have given me with others. In Yeshua's way, Amen.