Happy Halloween!

Tuesday, October 31, 3017

If Halloween has some Christian roots, is it much different from Easter or Christmas? Let’s look. 

Christmas Day commemorates the birth of Jesus as recorded in the New Testament. 

It has been commercialized to include trees and lights and eggnog and Rudolph and —yes — Santa Claus.

Santa originated from a bishop or monk (depending on whom you read) in the fourth century from what is now Turkey. Some say he and his carriage were blended over the years with the Germanic god, Woden, and with other pagan midwinter customs. So Santa is based predominantly on myth and tradition and, at least in my mind, is not Christian. 

Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus from the dead as depicted in the New Testament. In our country it typically marks the beginning of Spring and of rebirth in general. And it, too, has been commercialized to include the Easter bunny and Easter egg hunts.  So where did those traditions originate?

What do you know about rabbits? They multiply. In fact the animal attributed to the fertility goddess, Eostre, was the rabbit. And eggs, of course, represent fertility. Somehow after the 13th century the two melded together, especially in Europe. So when German immigrants came to the United States in the 1700s, they brought their Easter bunny with them who placed eggs, candies, and gifts in little nests the children made. Over time the nests changed into baskets and chocolate became the most popular candy. Based on this information, I think it’s safe to say the big white rabbit is not Christian either. 

So is Halloween much different from Christmas and Easter? Here’s my conclusion. 

Halloween is pagan. Period. 

Christmas is Christian. 

Easter is Christian. 

Each has elements that are based on myth and tradition and not on Scripture but Halloween is not based on Scripture at all. 

Does that mean that Christians shouldn’t incorporate these traditions into their families’ lives? I will say that our children grew up Trick-or-Treating, anticipating a visit from the Jolly Old Fat Man, and hunting Easter eggs to put in their baskets. Maybe I’m a bad parent. Or maybe I chose to fight other battles and to take advantage of every opportunity to celebrate life with my babies. 

Lord, today is a really fun day for a lot of people. We recognize, however, that it has its sinister components. Help us to be careful and safe. And thank you for the fact that Jesus is the victor over evil in our lives. 

Origin of Halloween

Monday, October 30, 2017

Last week we looked at the possible Christian origins of Halloween. Turns out it started in about the eighth century. Today I want to explore the pagan side of Halloween which dates back about 2000 years. According to the Internet, it’s earliest roots are in the Irish Festival of Samhain. Wikipedia says:

Samhain is a Gaelic festival marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter or the "darker half" of the year. Traditionally, it is celebrated on October 31. 

People felt that this time of year was when  spirits, witches, and goblins were most active. So they would build bonfires and wear costumes to either frighten them away or confuse them.

According to the Encyclopedia Britannica:

Halloween was thought to be the most favorable time for divinations concerning marriage, luck, health, and death. It was the only day on which the help of the devil was invoked for such purposes.

Halloween wasn’t celebrated in the United States until the early 1800’s when Irish settlers came to avoid the great potato famine. They brought their Halloween customs with them which included a 

blend of Celtic lore and religious tradition. Slowly Halloween has blossomed here into one of the country’s most popular holidays. 

These days some people observe Halloween by staying true to its more pagan roots. But most seem to view it as an innocent fall celebration where children dress up and go collect candy from their neighbors. 

Based on what I have read, I definitely see a more sinister side to the festivities surrounding Halloween. I hope we are not tricking ourselves into thinking it’s not a big deal when in actuality it is the devil’s favorite time of year. Perhaps we should keep our guard up just in case. 

Lord, regardless of the origins of Halloween, help us to remember that You have conquered death once for all. You bring the victory of life to your people. Thank you. 

Memory Verse 2017 -- Week 43

Sunday, October 29, 2017

For it is by grace 

you have been saved, 

through faith — and this is 

not from yourselves, 

it is the gift of God — not by works, 

so that no one can boast. 

Ephesians 2:8-9

Think about this. There’s nothing we can do to earn a place in heaven. Nothing. We will NEVER be good enough. Being a humanitarian is admirable but it won’t get me any closer to heaven. I must throw down live if myself and accept God’s gracious gift. Thank you, Lord!

Spend the week focusing on this scripture: 

• Read the verse in your Bible. 
• Read the passage before and after it. 
• Write it in your journal. 
• Ask the Lord to show you how it applies to your life. 
• Put it on a piece of paper and post it in a prominent place in your home so that you can see it often. 
• Put the words to music. Make up a tune or use one you already know. Singing always helps in the memory process. It's a left brain / right brain thing. 
• Always memorize the scripture reference with the verse so you can remember where to find it in the Bible. 

Origin of Halloween

Saturday, October 28, 2019

My limited research on the Internet revealed at least two theories for how Halloween got started. Some say it’s a Christian celebration — some day it is pagan. 

Do you know what a “hallow” is? It’s a saint. And All Hallows’ Day is celebrated on November 1st. This is a “Western Christian” Feast to remember the beloved departed: hallows, martyrs, and other faithful believers. All Hallow’s Eve, October 31, marks the beginning of the three day observance, Allhallowtide. 

All Hallows’ Eve or Evening eventually got shortened to All Hallowe’en and then to just Halloween.  And there you go. 

There’s a long history of how All Hallow’s Day moved from the springtime to November 1st. Suffice it to say it involved a declaration from the Pope. And really the whole month of November is dedicated to remembering the dead. That stands to reason since many plants die back in autumn and winter and there is more darkness than light. 

Personally I don’t choose to observe November 1st as a celebration for the dead. It seems pretty strange to me. There’s no need to pray for them because they’re already dead. Why would you pray for a hallow (Saint) or a martyr anyway. They’ve, like, already “arrived.” I would rather thank God for them and pray for the living to come to a saving faith in the Lord. 

Father, as with all celebrations help us to avoid mixing the pure with the pagan. The Israelites did it back in the day and we have a tendency to do it even now. Instead help us to focus on You — and to enjoy ourselves on Halloween. 

It’s Almost Halloween

Friday, October 27, 2017

What are some good Halloween costumes this year? According to people in the know, certain costumes are off limits these days. 

• Native American 
• Confederate soldier
• Belly dancer
• Nun (especially one that’s pregnant)
• Priest, Rabbi
• Old man walking with a cane
• Playboy Bunny (or any other rabbit)
• Girl dressed as Patrick the Starfish
• Boy dressed as Anna or Elsa
• Mexican
• Geisha (but Greek/Roman god or goddess is okay)
• Refrigerator (you might offend plus sized people)

That leaves us with. . . . 

• Candy (as long as it isn’t chocolate)
• Cartoon characters (as long as they aren’t sexualized)
• Animals (unless you’re an animal rights activist and then I guess they are all off limits)
• Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz friends (unless you’re from Kansas and then you might not appreciate the stereotype)
• Satan (because it’s okay to offend Christians)
• Plants (unless you’re going as a Venus fly trap)

What about candies? Besides the fact that giving out raisins or pencils might get you labeled as the house NOT to visit, most candies pass the social appropriateness test. But I would like to ask the sensitivity committee about the following:

• Dum Dums
• Nerds
• Wax lips
• Smarties
• Oreos
• Chocolate kisses
• Air Heads
• Now and Later
• Jolly Ranchers
• Blow Pops

I don’t know. It just seems like those candies might be offensive to some people. And I wouldn’t want to trigger anything for anybody.

Preparing for the promised land

Thursday, October 26, 2017

Ok. I think I’ve about worn out the Ten Commandments. But I have one more entry to close out the series. 

When God gave Moses these laws by which the people should live, they were out roaming around in the wilderness. God had promised them a permanent home but that wouldn’t come to fruition for many years. Still He wanted them to abide by His guidelines for life — the Ten Commandments. 

I’ve been thinking about the different seasons people go through in their lives. Sometimes we find ourselves wandering around in the desert searching for the place where He wants us to go. Maybe we’re in college trying to get a solid foundation for a fruitful career. Maybe we’re beginning a marriage. Maybe we’re raising children. Maybe we’re trying to make a difference in the world through our talents and passions. Or maybe we’re facing the end of this earthly life and looking forward to the ultimate promised land. 

If we face each day with determination to follow God faithfully, we might echo the words of Elijah:

O GOD, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, make it known right now that you are God in Israel, that I am your servant, and that I’m doing what I’m doing under your orders.
‭‭1 Kings‬ ‭18:36‬ ‭MSG‬‬

Consider this passage in Deuteronomy:

And I command you today: Love GOD, your God. Walk in his ways. Keep his commandments, regulations, and rules so that you will live, really live, live exuberantly, blessed by GOD, your God, in the land you are about to enter and possess.
‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭30:16‬ ‭MSG‬‬

Lord, you are always directing us to new places in our walk with you. Help us to keep your commandments so that we can claim exuberant living in Your promised land. 

Live Your Faith

Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Last week we looked at the Ten Commandments. In order to get them back in our society, we as believers are going to have to make it a point to live by them every day. Perhaps in so doing, others will recognize that we are different from the world and will inquire as to the reason. 

Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
‭‭James‬ ‭1:21‬ ‭NIV

Jesus, the Word, is Truth. There is nothing evil  or vile in Him. Through Him we have the standard by which to live. And He lives in the hearts of believers. 

If we are living lives of immorality or filth, we are not following in His footsteps. We must in humility throw down our less-than-stellar behavior and allow the Lord to be in control of our lives. 

Then we will have peace and others will want it, too. 

Lord, show us where we fail you. Help us to stand firm on your morals. Thank you for being so patient with us! 

Seasons Come and Seasons Go

Tuesday, October 24, 2017

Yesterday was a cold and dreary autumn day in the Bluegrass State — perfect for a bowl of homemade soup and a good book. I had to settle for Campbell’s Soup and a long day at work. But I still loved it. 

What is it about fall that intrigues me? The crisp air? The beautiful trees? Football? Goblins? Shorter days? The reminder that winter is just a moment away? Yes to all of the above. I think the reality for me is that I just love the changes that the different seasons bring. That’s one of the reasons why I love Kentucky — four seasons. It’s a Goldilocks kind of state: not too hot (for very long), not too cold (usually), just right! 

What does the Bible say about seasons? Of course Ecclesiastes states that there is a time and season for everything. 

As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭8:22‬ ‭NIV‬‬

All through Scripture God gives us promises we can hang our hats on. He has created a perfect balance for our planet. We know that, without a shadow of a doubt, the sun will come up tomorrow. And He will bless us with the seasons in due time. He is the Master Designer. His handiwork is all over the place for us to enjoy. 

So rather than moan about colder temperatures or shorter days, I’d rather embrace them. And I want to take in all the color before it’s gone for another 12 months. 

Lord, you have made some pretty special fall colors. Thank you for this gift. Thank you for autumn and the upcoming winter because spring will follow right on their heels. 

Moses Interceeds for the People

Monday, October 23, 2017

Yesterday I saw something in our Sunday School lesson that was pretty interesting. We’ve been studying Exodus and the focus yesterday was chapter 32.

Moses has been up on the mountain for days and days and the people wondered what had happened to him. Ready to move on, though, they told Aaron to make them an idol to worship. So he did and they did. 

Meanwhile up on the mountain, God told Moses what the people were doing and He was pretty miffed. He threatened to wipe them all off the face of the earth. But Moses interceded on behalf of the people — not because the people were good, or honest, or respectable, or faithful, or reliable or had asked for forgiveness. No. Moses reminded God of His own characteristics. He begged Him to spare the people because of His mercy and grace and faithfulness and promises. And He did. 

Then the LORD relented and did not bring on his people the disaster he had threatened.
Exodus‬ ‭32:14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Who does this remind you of? Jesus. 

For God showed His love for us in this: while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

He didn’t wait for us to repent. He sacrificed himself while we were as rotten as could be. And because of His sacrifice and intercession, God relented and did not destroy us. 

Thank you, Lord, for your mercy. Thank you for providing a way for us to be released from the bondage of sin. Thank you for Jesus, our intercession. 

Memory Verse 2017 -- Week 42

Sunday, October 22, 2017

But God demonstrates 

His own love for us in this: 

While we were still sinners, 

Christ died for us. 

Romans 5:8

Spend the week focusing on this scripture: 

• Read the verse in your Bible. 
• Read the passage before and after it. 
• Write it in your journal. 
• Ask the Lord to show you how it applies to your life. 
• Put it on a piece of paper and post it in a prominent place in your home so that you can see it often. 
• Put the words to music. Make up a tune or use one you already know. Singing always helps in the memory process. It's a left brain / right brain thing. 
• Always memorize the scripture reference with the verse so you can remember where to find it in the Bible. 

Where in the World are the Ten Commandments

Saturday, October 21, 2017

Whatever happened to the Ten Commandments? They used to be posted in public schools, judicial buildings (which makes perfect sense to me) and other government properties across the nation. 

In 1980, however, the Supreme Court ruled that they must be removed from all public schools. And over the next few years, they were slowly removed from most public places altogether. 

Does it surprise anyone that the nation’s moral compass has simultaneously disappeared? We can’t teach a moral standard based on absolute Truth in our schools. We can’t expect Legislators to write moral standards into laws or Justices to uphold them in court. Moral relativism is the standard today because there is no concrete “right” or “wrong.”

God must be saddened by the wisdom (or lack thereof) of our people in the United States. He gave the Ten Commandments for everybody’s good. And we have thrown them away. 

Lord, I feel like we have gone too far to be able to fix this in our country. Have mercy on us. May those of us who still cherish your Commandments continue to live by them daily —and to teach them to our children and to our children’s children. 

Ten Commandments vs Two Commandments

Friday, October 20, 2017

Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17)

1. You shall have no other gods before Me.
2. You shall make no idols.
3. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
4. Keep the Sabbath day holy.
5. Honor your father and your mother.
6. You shall not murder.
7. You shall not commit adultery.
8. You shall not steal.
9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
10. You shall not covet.

Two Commandments (Matthew 22:37-40)

1.   Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 

2.   Love your neighbor as yourself. 

The first four Commandments are reflected in verse 37 of Matthew 22. And the last six are summarized in verse 38. According to Matthew 22:40, “All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

I think it’s pretty neat that God gave us such careful instructions for our lives. He loves us too much to let us run around in chaos and lawlessness. So if we meditate on these ten and two commandments and apply them to our lives, we will be well on our way to a blessed life. 

I remember an acronym I learned in Bible School a long time ago: JOY. 

• Jesus
• Others
• You

I think these ten and two commandments can be found in this acronym. If we put the Lord first in our lives and treat others with utmost respect, putting ourselves last in the scheme of things, we will experience inner peace and joy. 

That is my prayer for us today — that we will find the Lord’s joy as we prioritize things in our lives based on these Scriptures. 

Lord, thank you for the guidelines you have given us all through the Bible. May we adhere to them so that we will have peace and joy all the rest of our lives. 

Ten Commandments: Respect for Each Other

Be Content With What You’ve Got

Thursday, October 19, 2017

(5) Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you. 
(6) You shall not murder. 
(7) You shall not commit adultery. 
(8) You shall not steal. 
(9) You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
(10) You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20:12-17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I don’t know about you but I don’t typically use the word “covet” in my daily conversations. So just for the fun of it, let’s look at some synonyms for it. 

covet means to have a longing for and implies strong envious desire. 

desire stresses the strength of feeling and often implies strong intention or determination.

wish sometimes implies a general or transient longing especially for the unattainable.

want specifically suggests a felt need or lack.

crave stresses the force of physical appetite or emotional need.

Consider this quote:

He had discovered a great law of human action, without knowing it—namely, that in order to make a man or a boy covet a thing, it is only necessary to make the thing difficult to attain. —Mark Twain,  Tom Sawyer,   1876

Don’t we know people like that? I do. My dog, Cassie, couldn’t care less about chewing on a rawhide — unless Benny has one and I tell her she can’t have it. Then she’s all about getting it. And it doesn’t really help if I let her have one. She wants Benny’s. 

It’s all about the chase. Right? That’s covetous thinking to be sure. 

What else does Scripture say about coveting?

The images of their gods you are to burn in the fire. Do not covet the silver and gold on them, and do not take it for yourselves, or you will be ensnared by it, for it is detestable to the LORD your God.”
‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭7:25‬ ‭NIV‬‬

God knew exactly why the people couldn’t have idols. Because they would take their eyes off of Him and covet the expensive materials they were made of. They would get things all mixed up. He told them not to have idols and not to covet what they couldn’t have. And they did both. 

You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God.
‭‭James‬ ‭4:2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I guess the bottom line is that God provides us with everything that we need. But it’s never enough. We want more. Instead we should be content with what we’ve got and be grateful for our abundance. 

Lord, show us when our minds wander and our focus turns from you to other people or things. Draw us back. You alone are worthy of our devotion. 

Ten Commandments: Respect for Each Other

Honesty 

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

(5) Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you. 
(6) You shall not murder. 
(7) You shall not commit adultery. 
(8) You shall not steal. 
(9) You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
(10) You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20:12-17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

God made it clear that we should tell the truth. We should never fabricate our testimonies. 

Do not spread false reports. Do not help a guilty person by being a malicious witness.

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭23:1‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We should always stand for the truth. Interestingly the following Matthew passage looks like it was derived directly from the Ten Commandments. 

For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭15:19‬ ‭NIV‬‬

It sounds to me like God is showing us the opposite of what He wants. He requires life-support, sexual purity, truth, and trust. 

Like a club or a sword or a sharp arrow is one who gives false testimony against a neighbor.

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭25:18‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I love how Proverbs tends to cut right to the heart of the matter.  My falsehoods are as devastating to my friends as if I had shot them with an arrow. I’m supposed to love my neighbor. Not shoot him. 

If we are not supposed to tell lies, then what is the truth?

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14:6‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Truth = Jesus 

Lies = Satan

Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

‭‭John‬ ‭8:32‬ ‭NIV‬‬

It is through a personal relationship with the Truth that we are able to know the difference between honesty and lies. We must grab ahold of Him and never let go. He alone can show us Truth. 

Thank you, Lord, for showing us the way. Help us to adhere to your ways and to be truth- tellers for You. 

Ten Commandments: Respect for Each Other

Theft 

Tuesday, October 17, 2017

(5) Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you. 
(6) You shall not murder. 
(7) You shall not commit adultery. 
(8) You shall not steal. 
(9) You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
(10) You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20:12-17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

These last six Commandments deal with how we are to relate with each other in light of our relationship with the Lord. It stands to reason that our neighbor’s “things” are not ours. And for us to walk away with them is just flat out wrong. We do not have the right to take things that don’t belong to us. 

So what do we do with people in our country who are convicted of theft? Usually they are incarcerated for a period of time corresponding to the severity of the crime. 

Let’s see how this was handled at the time the Ten Commandments were handed down. 

Anyone who steals must certainly make restitution, but if they have nothing, they must be sold to pay for their theft.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭22:3‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Now if the US were to adopt this punishment, we might discourage people from stealing. Don’t you think? If I thought I might be sold into Alavert, I might rethink the idea of robbery. 

Or if slavery isn’t enough, we could go another route. 

People do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy his hunger when he is starving. Yet if he is caught, he must pay sevenfold, though it costs him all the wealth of his house.
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭6:30-31‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Interesting. Steal something worth $100 and pay $700 to get off the hook. 

My English teachers always warned against plagiarism which is stealing someone else’s words and using them as if they were your own. Looks like in Jeremiah some of the prophets were caught plagiarizing. 

“Therefore,” declares the LORD, “I am against the prophets who steal from one another words supposedly from me.”
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭23:30‬ ‭NIV‬‬

God’s pretty serious about stealing. In fact all these Commandments are addressed in Jeremiah. 

Will you steal and murder, commit adultery and perjury, burn incense to Baal and follow other gods you have not known, and then come and stand before me in this house, which bears my Name, and say, “We are safe—safe to do all these detestable things?”
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭7:9-10‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We have got to be stronger than the people of the Old Testament. They had barely received the Commandments when they were off breaking them. And then acting like nothing ever happened. Sounds kind of like today, doesn’t it?

Is it pretty safe to say that most of the people reading this blog have never really stolen anything that would land them in prison? Maybe. Maybe not. We’d best analyze our situations carefully and honestly and reconcile any shortcomings with the Lord. 

Lord, I pray that your Spirit will remind me of my sins regarding thievery. Take away the guilt and help me move forward in healthy relationships with your people. 

Ten Commandments: Respect for Each Other

Adultery

Monday, October 16, 2017

(5) Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you. 
(6) You shall not murder. 
(7) You shall not commit adultery. 
(8) You shall not steal. 
(9) You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
(10) You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20:12-17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do you know how many times the word “adultery” or some form of it is found in the Bible? 68. Considering there are 66 books in the Bible, that’s a pretty significant number. I think that indicates that even from the beginning people have struggled with sexual sin. What do you think?

Regarding a sexual relationship outside of marriage, consider what Proverbs has to say. 

But a man who commits adultery has no sense; whoever does so destroys himself. 
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭6:32‬ ‭NIV‬‬

It is God’s design that one man and one woman should marry, having saved themselves sexually for the other. They are to remain married and stay faithful to one another until the cows come home. Period. To do it any differently than that is to break God’s commandment. Who cares what the world finds socially acceptable. We have to answer to God. 

So what is adultery anyway? Based on several dictionaries I consulted, I found that it is “sex outside of marriage.” I take that to include two single people, two married people, or one married and one single person. 

Much like we found with murder, Jesus has something very interesting to say about adultery. 

You have heard that it was said, “You shall not commit adultery.” But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5:27-28‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Consider the penalty for adultery as laid out in the Old Testament. 

If a man commits adultery with another man’s wife—with the wife of his neighbor—both the adulterer and the adulteress are to be put to death.
‭‭Leviticus‬ ‭20:10‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Yikes! I’d better keep my mind from wandering! 

So where should we stand today regarding infidelity or adultery? We should consider it to be wrong, we should avoid it at all costs and we should teach this to our children and our children’s children. I don’t think God changes His mind about things like this. Adultery was always a sin and always will be. 

LORD, help us not to fall into the trap set by Satan in our society — that sexual satisfaction is a person’s right and is perfectly acceptable. Help us, instead, to keep ourselves sexually pure for our partners and for Your glory. 

Memory Verse 2017 -- Week 41

Sunday, October 15, 2017

Just as people are destined to die once, 

and after that to face judgement. 

Hebrews 9:27

This is a really good example of when it is good to read a verse in context wirh the whole passage, the whole book, and the whole Scripture. Without doing that, this verse seems a little bit random. See what you can find. And how does it apply to your life?

Spend the week focusing on this scripture: 

• Read the verse in your Bible. 
• Read the passage before and after it. 
• Write it in your journal. 
• Ask the Lord to show you how it applies to your life. 
• Put it on a piece of paper and post it in a prominent place in your home so that you can see it often. 
• Put the words to music. Make up a tune or use one you already know. Singing always helps in the memory process. It's a left brain / right brain thing. 
• Always memorize the scripture reference with the verse so you can remember where to find it in the Bible. 

Ten Commandments: Respect for Each Other

Murder 

Saturday, October 14, 2017

(5) Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you. 
(6) You shall not murder. 
(7) You shall not commit adultery. 
(8) You shall not steal. 
(9) You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
(10) You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20:12-17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

This commandment is an easy one for me because I’ve never murdered anybody. Well, I did think about it once when the boys were young! Just kidding! Is there more to this verse than those four words? Let’s look. 

“Whoever takes a human life shall surely be put to death.” Leviticus 24:17 ESV

Shall we have a discussion about capital punishment? I’d rather not if it’s all the same to my readers! But this passage very strongly condemns murder. And other passages make it clear that murder is wrong and punishable by death. 

Here’s an interesting one from the New Testament. 

“Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.” I John 3:15 ESV

I think it would be wise for us to assume that “brother” refers to any other person and not just to a family member or neighbor. I’d rather think too broadly than not inclusively enough. In that case we’ve probably got some soul-searching to do. 

“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire.” Matthew 5:21-22 ESV

Yikes! Have you ever been so angry with someone that you could spit nails? Have you ever hurled insults at someone? Have you ever called somebody “stupid” or a “moron?” Soul-searching once again!

This commandment turns out to be a hard one after all, doesn’t it? If I feel like it doesn’t apply to me then I’m fooling myself. I am most assuredly guilty. 

LORD, it is rather sobering to think that my hot-headed reactions to people could warrant the death penalty. I pray that you’ll help me to control my anger. I also ask your forgiveness for all the times I’ve lost my temper and acted badly. Thank you for your grace. 

Ten Commandments: Respect for Each Other

Friday, October 13, 2017

(5) Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you. 
(6) You shall not murder. 
(7) You shall not commit adultery. 
(8) You shall not steal. 
(9) You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
(10) You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20:12-17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I had such good parents. They loved me no matter what I did. They provided for my needs. They were my biggest cheerleaders. So honoring them was never hard to do. 

After my father died, Bill and I started talking to Mother about coming to live with us. But she had things to do and places to go. We respected her desire to stay independent and to continue the Lord’s work at her church. Later on things sort of fell into place and I told her I thought it was time for her to move to Kentucky. She didn’t kick and scream and pitch a fit. She acquiesced. The respect was mutual. 

Many people don’t have good relationships with their parents. Are they supposed to honor them anyway? The short answer is, “yes.”

First we must look at our own culpability. Do we butt heads with them because we, ourselves, are hard to live with? Are we the ones whose attitudes need to change? Are we clashing because of some silly something that needs to be reconciled? And I would suggest that no matter whose ”fault” it is, it is up to us to initiate the reconciliation. 

Secondly, do we disrespect our parents because, quite frankly, they haven’t done anything to earn our respect? Perhaps they have been abusive, manipulative, or downright mean. Does that release us from the command to honor them? I kinda don’t think so. Think about this. 

“God put his love on the line for us by offering his Son in sacrificial death while we were of no use whatever to him.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭5:6-8‬ ‭MSG‬

If God can do that for us, shouldn’t we consider honoring our parents — even when they are of no use to us? After all, they did one very wonderful thing — they birthed us. And we are all fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 139:14)

Also, when our parents are old and vulnerable, it is important for us to do everything we can to try to preserve their dignity. We can honor them when they are at their weakest even if they didn’t do that for us at any point in our lives. 

LORD, as we strive toward obedience, help us to honor You by honoring our parents — no matter how easy or difficult that might be. 

Ten Commandments: Respect the Lord’s Day

Thursday, October 12, 2017

(1) You shall have no other gods before me.

(2) You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them....

(3) You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name. 

(4) Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20:3-8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

What is so important about the Sabbath? How do we “remember” it? Or keep it Holy?

Recall the creation story in Genesis. God made everything over the course of six days and then rested on the seventh. Why did He do that? Did He need to rest? I don’t really think He was tired. Instead I think He was modeling for us what we need to do. We are prone to work, work, work and never take any time off. He wants us to take a break at least every seven days for our own health and well-being. 

Ezekiel 20:12 says, “I gave them my Sabbaths as a sign between us, so they would know that I the LORD made them holy.” This indicates to me that we are to worship and concentrate on the LORD on the Sabbath. 

When I was a girl, we considered Sunday to be the Sabbath Day and nobody really did much on that day. We went to church and that was about it. We didn’t go out to eat or go shopping or go to work. 

But now, Sunday is just like another Saturday for most people in our country. It’s another day to sleep late or to go to the lake. Maybe we don’t work, but we sure do depend on a whole lot of other people to labor on Sundays. Somebody has to staff the restaurants and shops that we frequent on Sunday. 

And what do we do about pastors and church staff? Or first responders? Or hospital staff? They all work on Sundays. How do they protect that day if they have to work on it? 

I really don’t know the answers to these questions. I know God wants us to remember Him and His creation on the Sabbath. And He wants us to take at least one day off every week for our own good. But is it okay for our day of rest and worship to be on a different day of the week besides Sunday? 

I don’t think He wants us to be legalistic about which day of the week we commit to Him. He just wants our commitment. 

LORD, I don’t want to be too liberal in my assessment of the Sabbath. I want to remember you and all you have done for us. I want to make you proud. And I want to rest so that I can stay healthy. I just hope that it’s okay with you if I don’t necessarily do this on Sunday. 

Ten Commandments: More Respect for Our Creator

Wednesday, October 11, 2017

(1) You shall have no other gods before me.

(2) You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them....

(3) You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name. 

(4) Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20:3-8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Do we honor the Lord by respecting His name? Let’s think about it. 

Do we curse people using His name?

Do we use it in an abbreviation in our text messages? I’d say there are some young people today who don’t even know what “OMG” stands for. 

Do we use it as an exclamation? “Oh dear God!”

Do we say it out of sympathy but we really don’t mean what we say? “God bless his heart!”

Or how about using an abbreviation of it. “Gosh.” “Gee.” 

Besides the fact that He’s the King of kings and Lord of lords and Creator of the universe, what is it about God’s name that is so special?  God’s name is the very essence of who He is. And if we use it frivolously then we are disregarding the magnitude of His essence. 

You know that my name is Patience. Some would say I’m full if it. Some not so much. Regardless, when my parents named me they had no idea how I would turn out. 

But God has been and will be forever. His name reflects that. He is perfect. He is bigger than the universe. Yet we reduce Him to a mere mark of punctuation. 

And not only that, as Christians we bear His Name. So when we act in a way that is unbecoming of a “little Christ,” I think we are actually defaming His Name. 

What do you think?

Oh God, forgive us for taking You and Your Name for granted. Show mercy on us. Help us to be mindful of our failures and to turn from this sinful behavior. May our lives bring glory to Your Name. 

Ten Commandments: Respect for God

Tuesday, October 10. 2017

(1) You shall have no other gods before me.

(2) You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them....

(3) You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name. 

(4) Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20:3-8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

These first four Commandments are all about our relationship to God. He wants our undivided attention — our unwavering devotion. And He’s earned it, hasn’t He? 

So what gods do we put before Him? I don’t have any gods at my house. Or do I? I would propose that anything that takes  all my time and attention away from the Lord could be considered a god.

• IPhone
• Family
• Books
• Civic projects
• Church
• Exercise 
• Garden
• Work 

If I don’t have time every day to spend in the Word, then I need to find something to cut out. Nothing should come between me and the Lord. 

Father, You are the most important thing in my life. Help me to guard my heart against things that want to steal me away. 

Ten Commandments: We Need Boundaries

Monday, October 9, 2017

When we were little, why did our parents give us rules? Why did they set boundaries for us? Were they mean? Or demanding? I don’t know about your parents, but mine gave me rules to protect me and because they loved me. 

• Don’t talk to strangers. 
• Don’t stick things in an electrical socket. 
• Stop, look and listen before you cross the street. 
• Be nice.
• Tell the truth. 

I think God knew exactly what he was doing when He gave us the Ten Commandments. He knew we needed guidelines and boundaries. We needed rules regarding our relationship with Him and with other people. 

Interestingly when America had the bright idea to remove the Ten Commandments from our schools and judiciary buildings, many laws began to get blurry. We took away the standard and now there is none. We have a hard time calling murder what it is. We make exceptions for people for all the wrong reasons. Everything is upside down. 

It’s time we recognized the Ten Commandments for what they are: perfect laws established for our own good. The sooner we get ourselves back on track, the better. 

This week we are going to look at these ten laws of God and see how they apply to our lives today. 

Lord, thank you that You love us enough to give us rules by which to live. Help us be open-minded about what You have to show us this week. 

Memory Verse 2017 -- Week 40

Sunday, October 8, 2017

For the wages of sin is death, 

but the gift of God is eternal life 

in Christ Jesus our Lord. 

Romans 6:23

In the workplace we expect to be paid for our labor. Those are our wages — what we have earned.

It’s a really good thing that believers have the peace in knowing that because of Christ Jesus, we will not get what we deserve. Instead, we are gifted with eternal life.  

Spend the week focusing on this scripture: 

• Read the verse in your Bible. 
• Read the passage before and after it. 
• Write it in your journal. 
• Ask the Lord to show you how it applies to your life. 
• Put it on a piece of paper and post it in a prominent place in your home so that you can see it often. 
• Put the words to music. Make up a tune or use one you already know. Singing always helps in the memory process. It's a left brain / right brain thing. 
• Always memorize the scripture reference with the verse so you can remember where to find it in the Bible. 

Full Moon Over Kentucky

Thursday, October 5, 2017

Tonight we will have a full moon. Have you noticed how bright it has been over the past couple of nights? Unfortunately it’s supposed to be a bit cloudy tonight so we might not get to enjoy its grandeur. 

Here are some facts and myths about a full moon?

• In times past the cycle from one full moon to the next helped people keep track of the calendar. 
• The farmer’s Almanac pays close attention to the phases of the moon when giving predictions and directions for planting and harvesting. 
• Vampires — no that’s werewolves — are transformed by a full moon even if it is behind cloud cover. But werewolves can’t transform if they are on the polar-neutral equator. (Just thought I’d throw that in as interesting folk-lore.)
• Babies like to come during a full moon. We have three ladies at work that would like for that to be the case — they look like they’ve swallowed watermelons. Unfortunately there’s no clear data to back up this claim.
• The far side of the moon is not always dark. Because of the way it rotates around the earth, the moon always faces the earth.  So we always see one side. The picture below is actually taken of the far side and it is clearly not dark. 
• The moon is not a sphere like a basketball. Since we only see one side of it, we can’t tell that the far side is a bit oblong—kind of like an egg. 
• Is there gravity on the moon? Yes. It’s only about 1/6th of what we have on Earth. But it’s there. 
• The full moon affects the ocean tides. That’s true. But it is debatable that the moon’s phases might affect the hearts and minds of people. 

There you have it. Tomorrow when I get to  work I’ll find out if we have any full moon babies. 

Hope you enjoy the sights. 

What a Beautiful Day

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Oh! What a beautiful morning!
Oh! What a beautiful day!
I’ve got a beautiful feeling 
Everything’s going His way!

(Ok. So I changed the last line just a bit. I couldn’t resist.) 

Yesterday was absolutely beautiful where I live. The sky was a deep, clear blue. The sun was warm and luscious. The humidity was low. There was a gentle breeze. It was just lovely — and it soothed my heart. 

God knew exactly what He was doing when He created the earth and all that is in it. He even took a step back to check it out and acknowledged that He had done a good job. Even though people tend to mess it up — from Adam’s day to our own — Earth is a pretty good place to be. 

Sometimes when things seem particularly grim, God sends something to show us that He is still God and He is in control. Yesterday was that reminder for me. 

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.
‭Genesis‬ ‭1:31‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Lord thank you for yesterday’s reminder. Thank you that I recognized it’s blessing. You are the Master Designer!

Weeping and Great Mourning

Tuesday, October 3, 2017

A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.
‭Matthew‬ ‭2:18‬ ‭NIV‬

How many Rachel's are out there today weeping and mourning the loss of their children who died in Las Vegas Sunday and Monday. Yes, I realize that all or most of the victims were adults. But still they were somebody's children. Or spouses. Friends. Siblings. Parents. Whatever. And even those of us who are unrelated mourn. 

How can this be?

How can one man act as God and terminate the lives of so many --

and yet be such a coward as not to face the police when they arrived? 

What kind of man does that?

Don't you know the heart of God is broken once again at the senseless act of terrorism that rained down on His children. 

You know, Christ said He would come like a thief in the night and that we wouldn't know when that would be. We've got to be ready, y'all. 

Am I saying that this massacre was God's will. Absolutely not. No doubt, though, that some of the unsuspecting souls are now celebrating with the Saviour. But what about the others? 

Are we ready to meet our Maker?

Are our neighbors ready?

Lord, bless and comfort the families and friends of the fallen in Las Vegas. Bring healing and peace to the survivors and first responders. Thank you for providing salvation from evil for all who profess you as Lord. You, alone, are God and worthy of all praise.