Angels Part 2 of 6

ANGELS Part 2 of 6
Daniel 8:16-26
Vv 16-17: …“Gabriel, tell this man the meaning of this vision.” As he came near the place where I (Daniel) was standing, I was terrified and fell prostrate. ‘Son of man’, he said to me; ‘understand that the vision concerns the time of the end.’”

New angel information: This angel’s name is Gabriel, and he sounds like a man who foretells the future. This time Gabriel is speaking to Daniel, a prophet. Daniel wrote the book that’s named after him in the Bible. Find Daniel, the 8th book after Psalm, the book in the center of the Bible.

Daniel’s book addresses the Hebrews, who were exiled in Babylonia between 605-530, B.C. Gabriel gives the vision that foretells End Time events. It sounded scary, and Daniel was so frightened—because of the vision, or because God’s angel was addressing him?—that he fell face down on the ground. (Prostrate means face-down). This proves that angels deliver God’s messages to people.

Daniel 9:21-23: “While I (Daniel) was speaking and praying, confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel and making my request to the Lord my God for his holy hill—while I was still in prayer, Gabriel, the man I had seen in the earlier vision, came to me in swift flight about the time of the evening sacrifice. He instructed me and said to me, ‘Daniel, I have now come to give you my insight and understanding. As soon as you began to pray, an answer was given, which I have come to tell you, for you are highly esteemed.’”

Aha—more angel information: Swift flight means that angels do fly. He looks like a man, (no wings), and gave Daniel further instructions as an answer from God. Gabriel also gave Daniel his “insight and understanding”. So, angels think and reason on their own, knowing God’s message. What was Daniel's reaction to being highly-esteemed (by God)?

Daniel12:1: “At that time, Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered.”

“Delivered” means saved, liberated from the wages of sin.

Take Home Nugget

Michael is a great prince of angels who protects God's people, and also foretells the future. “Your people” are God’s chosen: Jews and Gentiles, whose name is written in “the book”—see Revelation 21:27.

The Book—so wondrous!
Philippians 4:3, sojourners fair,
Lamb’s Book of Life, Revelation 21:27--
Is your name found there?

HAPPY HANUKKAH, Sisters and Brothers of Judaism.

J.D. Griffith

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Angels Part 1 of 6

ANGELS Part 1 of 6
Luke 20:36
“…and they can no longer die; for they are like the angels.”

Tricking Jesus was a game for the Sadducees. But Jesus read their minds, and enlightened them with straight talk. After the resurrection, things will be different, (Luke 20:35-36).

There’s been a lot of talk about Angels lately. Books have been published about them, cults have sprung up in angel adoration, and toy angels complete Christmas decorations. Some angels have wings, some look like genderless creatures. Wherever holiday scenes decorate the landscape, angels are found in abundance. From what Jesus said in today’s Scripture, we learn that angels are immortal.

Who is like the angels, and will never die? Jesus’ answer is clear: After the resurrection of the dead, we too, will never die.

Are angels really everywhere?

Yes.

Psalm 34:7 says, “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them.” When believers—as God’s kids—follow Jesus, we are guarded by His angels.

Does this surrounding layer of protection give you confidence? Have you ever been scared in the dark? Do you imagine bogeymen chasing you at night?

Psalms 91:11-12 says, “For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.” Psalm 91 is the Scripture that assures God’s children that we are protected on all fronts. God is our refuge and strength, v.2, against the terror of the night, v.5, and be with us in trouble, v.15.

Angels surround, before and behind, to the right and the left, those who love the Lord. (Read Luke 4:10-11 to see the words the devil quoted to Jesus during His temptation. Do they sound familiar?)

Fear not, for you are safe beyond measure.

“Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it” comes from Hebrews 13:2. What else could this passage mean except that angels are everywhere people are? Do you suspect that you may have met an angel?

Take Home Nugget

Luke 20:38 talks about immortality: “He is not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to Him all are alive.” When God created the universe, death was not part of the picture. After death, we will live forever, just as angels will live forever. The question is not will you live, but where will you live?

With angels surrounding us everywhere
Of what can we be afraid?

J.D. Griffith

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Faith Icons: Assorted (Part 6 of 6)

FAITH ICONS: ASSORTED (Part 6 of 6)
Genesis 37-50, Exodus 2-Deuteronomy 34, Joshua, Judges, 1,2 Samuel, Luke 2:34-38

Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”

The roll call of Faith Icons is nowhere complete, but this devotional series shows readers: who faith icons are, where to find their stories in the Bible, and what was significant about their lives.

Joseph

Joseph was Jacob’s (Israel’s) favorite son. His brothers sold him into slavery, but he shows us graceful forgiveness in Genesis 50:20, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.” (Genesis 37, 39-50).

Moses

Raised as a prince and hunted down as a murderer, God got his attention with a burning bush. (Exodus 3:1-10). Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt to the Promised Land, and received the Ten Commandments. (Exodus—Leviticus —Numbers—Deuteronomy).

Joshua

Joshua requested God to stop the sun for a whole day. It has never happened—before or since. (Joshua 10:12-14).

Rahab

Rahab believed that two spies who came to her house were sent from God, and protected them from discovery (Joshua 2).

Deborah and Barak

The judge Deborah was also a prophetess (Judges 4:4). She and Barak worked under God’s command, and together, they succeeded in everything the Lord led them to accomplish.

Gideon

Gideon found courage to lead Israeli troops against Midian—even after God trimmed down their numbers from 22,000 to 300 (Judges 7:2-21). Gideon refused earthly rewards in Judges 8:23. The Gideon Bible is found in hotel rooms across the world.

Jephthah

Disowned and kicked out, Jephthah agreed to lead Israel in battle against Ammon (Judges 11-12). He and his daughter sacrificed much when he followed through with a vow he made to God.

Sampson

Sampson’s supernatural strength sweeps through the pages of Judges 13-16. He conquered his enemies because his faith was strong.

Hannah

Hannah pledged her son to the Lord, and gave Samuel to the priest, Eli, in 1Samuel 1-2.

Samuel

After God revealed Himself to Samuel, he became a great prophet. What a rich life he lived! Check out how he anointed kings over Israel. (1 and 2 Samuel).

David

The shepherd was anointed king of Israel (1Samuel 16:13). He shows us fear and reverence for God by persevering through many trials to achieve the crown (2Samuel). David penned many Psalms that inspire us to triumph in adversity.

Anna

A prophetess, the widow Anna worshipped day and night in the temple—with prayer and fasting. Because of her faith, God let her meet baby Jesus. (Luke 2:36-38).

Take Home Nugget

Most faith icons did not see their promises come true, but were convinced of their reality. Belief=Faith. When you’re looking for good reading, adventure is awaiting you inside the Bible.

Look in the mirror to see God's newest Faith Icon!

J.D. Griffith

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Faith Icons: Jacob (Part 5 of 6)

FAITH ICONS: JACOB (Part 5 of 6)
Genesis 25:19-34
The Lord responded to Rebekah about her difficult pregnancy in v. 23: “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older one will serve the younger.”

Twin boys, born over 3,500 years ago, launched today’s current events. Faith icons Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are patriarchs of the Christian belief. The two nations in Rebekah’s womb fathered different peoples. Esau became the father of the Edomites (Genesis 36:43). His little brother, Jacob, became father of the Israelites (Genesis 32:28). Israelite kings ruled over the Edomites (Genesis 36:31). But let's start this story at the beginning.

The boys were total opposites. Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the open country. Jacob was a quiet man, staying among the tents. Since their Dad, Isaac, enjoyed eating wild game, he loved Esau. Their Mom, Rebekah, loved Jacob (Genesis 25:27-28).


One day, Esau, weary and hungry from hunting, said, “Give me some stew, Jacob.”
“First, sell me your birthright.” Jacob bribed. (The birthright was a very big deal. The oldest son inherited the bulk of his Father’s estate, and became leader of the family).

They argued, and finally Esau swore an oath to sell Jacob his birthright. (Genesis 25:29-34).

Later, Rebekah overheard Isaac ask Esau to prepare him fresh game. He promised to give Esau his blessing afterwards. (Genesis 28:7). Rebekah commanded Jacob to beat Esau into receiving Isaac’s blessing. Jacob deceived his Dad by playing the role of Esau (even wearing his clothes). Afterwards, Isaac gave Jacob his blessing—that made Jacob master over Esau. (Genesis 27:27-29).

Esau returned with food for his Dad, and asked for his blessing. After learning about Jacob’s deception, Isaac wondered what to do.

Esau demanded, “Bless me, too!”

Isaac blessed Esau, but as Jacob’s servant. Esau became incensed. First Jacob took his birthright, then stole his blessing! Esau wanted to kill Jacob. (Genesis 27:32-41).

Isaac sent Jacob to Uncle Leban, (Rebekah’s brother), to find a wife. (Genesis 28:1-5). Esau went to Uncle Ishmael, (Isaac’s half-brother), and married Ishmael’s daughter. (Genesis 28:6-9). Jacob and Esau prospered in separate lands (Genesis 36:5-8), were reunited in peace (Genesis 33:1-4), and buried Isaac together (Genesis 35:29).

Take Home Nugget

Jacob wrestled all night with “man” in Genesis 32:24-28. “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed.” Israel is father of the Jewish nation.

Christianity owes its belief and faith to Jacob (Israel), and the Jewish nation. Jesus descended from King David, (Matthew 1:6, 16). Jewish men wrote the Bible. The only exception is the gentile physician, Luke. He wrote the books Luke, and Acts in the Bible's New Testament.

Israel means ‘he struggles with God’.

J.D. Griffith

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Faith Icons: Isaac (Part 4 of 6)

FAITH ICONS: ISAAC (Part 4 of 6)
Genesis 21, 22, 25, 26, 27

Genesis 21:6: “Sarah said, ‘God has brought me laughter…’” Isaac means he laughs.

Abraham was a hundred years old, Sarah was ninety, and Ishmael was thirteen when Isaac was born. (Genesis 17:17, 24).

“Dad, no!” Isaac shrieked.

Isaac trusted Abraham—and got on top of the stone slab—until his Dad raised his knife up high above Isaac’s chest.

Could Isaac hear the angel’s command to not harm the boy? (Genesis 22:12). What thoughts must have run through Isaac’s head?

“There’s our burnt offering, son” Abraham said, pointing to a thicket. The brush caught a ram’s horns fast (Genesis 22:13).

This is our first glimpse of Isaac. Trust is the name of the game, and Abraham’s faith legacy passed to his son. Isaac was 37 years old when his Mom, Sarah, died (Genesis 23:1), and he grieved. One day, Isaac went to a field to meditate and saw camels approaching. (Meditation, before the Bible was written, meant to ponder what spoken history says about God).

Isaac watched a woman cover her face with a veil, and jumped to his feet. His spine tingled as the camels drew close (Genesis 24:62-66). (Abraham sought a wife for Isaac from his native land).

“Meet Rebekah” the servant said. “She is your Dad’s great-niece (Genesis 24:24).

“Great!” Isaac said, reaching for her hands. “Will you marry me, Rebekah?” Mom, you’d love her! he thought, leading Rebekah into his tent. (Genesis 24:67).

Isaac, forty years old when he married Rebekah, prayed for the Lord to bless them with children (Genesis 25:20-21). Twin boys were born to them when Isaac was sixty years old. Isaac favored Esau (reddish color, body covered with hair, skilled hunter); Rebekah loved Jacob (quiet, stayed around the tent). (Genesis 25:24-27).

During a severe famine, Isaac traveled to Gerar to see Abimelech, king of the Philistines. God told Isaac to live in this land for awhile, promising to be with him and bless him (Genesis 26:1-6). Soon Isaac had grown too powerful for Abimelech, and was ordered to leave (Genesis 26:16).

Isaac moved to the Valley of Gerar and settled there. After settling well water issues, he planted crops. He flourished as his flocks and herds multiplied greatly. Abimelech, learning of Isaac’s wealth and power, signed a peace treaty with him (Genesis 26:17-31).

Isaac lived to be 180 years old. Esau and Jacob reunited to bury their Dad. (Genesis 35:29).

Take Home Nugget

Without faith, it is impossible to please God—because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists—and He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6).

J.D. Griffith

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Profound Gratitude

PROFOUND GRATITUDE
2Corinthians 2:9-10
The Message: “Instead of trusting in our own strength or wits to get out of it, we were forced to trust God totally—not a bad idea since He’s the God Who raises the dead! And He did it, rescued us from certain doom. And He’ll do it again, rescuing us as many times as we need rescuing.”

The apostle Paul was a man driven to succeed. Former enemy of Christ—he worked passionately for God’s kingdom—profoundly grateful for his salvation. He shows believers today how to live victoriously, succeeding in every task. The key to victory is the three “C”s: Clarity, Commitment, and Counsel.

Paul’s fuzzy vision of the daunting task of sharing the Gospel and establishing new churches needed clarification (KLAR-if-i-KA-shun, meaning explanation, focused purpose).

While traveling to Corinth with Timothy, a brother in Christ, Paul suffered hardships in the province of Asia. The adversity before them was so severe, that they thought they would die. Desperate, they prayed, and relied totally on God’s lead. Suddenly, the way to proceed sharpened unmistakably. Paul introduced Timothy to the new congregation in Corinth, and their visit displayed courageous joy to them (2Corinthians 2:23-24). The people were amazed at Paul’s and Timothy’s joy in sharing the Gospel after being tested so severely.

God provides clarity. Focused vision spots opportunities to achieve goals, and appreciation for God’s timing. Paul established new churches at every city in his missionary journey—without causing any of them grief.

Paul was committed to God’s plan of spreading the Gospel to the Gentile world (Greeks, and non-Jewish people). Paul never wavered in his faith. His dedication enabled him to plow forward, despite the obstacles blocking his way. Paul’s profound gratitude for success fueled his passion to achieve every goal.

Paul’s zeal is neither ordinary, nor unique. Those who seek God’s counsel are similarly led to victory. Acquiring Godly direction transforms ordinary boys and girls (like you and me) into extraordinary people. Together, our successful accomplishments glorify our amazing God.

Just like as it was for the apostle Paul, when we seek God daily, plowing forward towards goals always achieves success.

Will you join me in becoming extraordinary?

Take Home Nugget

God’s gift to us is life. Physical life can be supplemented with a rich spiritual life in Christ (John 20:31). Instead of wasting this gift, we can choose success. Like apostle Paul, our success will be marked with happiness, dedication, and profound gratitude.

Life—a gift profound!
Every day, in everything, let us give thanks.
Plowing towards success
Hearts bursting—gratitude unbound.

Happy Thanksgiving, America! November 26, 2009.

J.D. Griffith

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Victorious in Death

VICTORIOUS IN DEATH
1Corinthians 15:57
“Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory [over death] through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

(PARENTS: You may want to consider whether this devotion is suitable for your very young children.)

“Why did she die?” Raan asked everyone passing by.

A male nurse named Ariel, heard Raan’s plea, and sat down on the hospital floor. “Your name is Raan, right?”

Raan looked at Ariel, and nodded his head.

“I was your sister’s nurse, Raan. Maybe I can help you understand what happened today.”

“What does it mean to die?” Raan asked.

“It means that Sitare’s heart stopped beating, Raan. She can no longer see, hear, sit up, or feel pain.” Ariel said, looking directly into Raan’s eyes.

“Make her better!” Raan demanded, stomping his feet.

“I wish that I could, Raan. The doctors tried everything, but nothing worked. She’s at peace now.” Ariel said softly.

Raan wailed. His balled fists tried plugging the tears that flowed down his cheeks. Ariel held Raan tightly, rocking him, and stroking his hair.

“Come here, son” Raan’s Dad said, scooping Raan into his arms. Sitting down in a chair next to Raan’s Mom, he looked at Ariel. “You cared for Sitare, didn’t you? Thank you for helping Raan. They were very close. At home, when she got sick, Raan never left her side.”

“I am sorry for not being able to do more; very sorry for your loss.” Ariel offered.

“She’s with the Lord now.” Raan’s Dad said. A weak smile flickered across his face. “Raan, your sister is free!” His speech grew stronger with, “Jesus is holding her on His lap. And Grandmear is with them.”

Raan sat up and looked at his Dad. “Grandmear too? Why can’t we be with them on Jesus’ lap?”

“One day, God willing, we will all be together again.” Raan’s Mom said, encircling her arms around her family.

When God raised Jesus from the dead, He guaranteed all believers victory over death, too. Sickness and disease are frightening. Medications don’t always work as is intended. Lots of illnesses have no cure. Many people live in constant pain.

One day, all believers will be free from pain. Their assurance of victory in death is certain.

Take Home Nugget

Funerals often begin with a “Wake”, “Viewing”, or a “Celebration of Life”. People share memories of the deceased, Scripture is read, songs sung, prayers said. Believer’s hope is joyful for unseen future reunions with loved ones.

Check out victory over death in 1Thessalonians 4:13-18.

What is nonbeliever’s hope?

Because Christ is alive, we too shall live.
Faith Icons devotional series will continue November 27, 2009.

J.D. Griffith

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