We are mired in a time of year that makes my soul cringe. It's a time of bell ringers, christmas trees, and fancy lights. It's a time of revelry and gala gatherings. It's a time of santa claus and presents under the tree. It's a time of witchcraft and idolatry!!
It doesn't take “rocket science” to understand the idolatrous nature of christmas. I will not try to “re-invent the wheel” with this post. Rather, I will simply refer my readers to various websites that explain the pagan origins of the festivities associated with this time of year.
There are many sites that explain the origins of christmas. A simple web search for key words such as “christmas tree”, “origins of christmas”, etc. will garner a wealth of information regarding the subject. As a beginning, I direct my readers to the following two sites.
http://www.simpletoremember.com/Vitals/Christmas_TheRealStory.htm
http://www.thercg.org/books/ttooc.html
I have been told the celebration of christmas is “an American tradition”. Certainly, it has become so in our land. However, it's a tradition welcomed by many generations prior to our country. A simple search of the date, “December 25th”, will also garner a wealth of information regarding the pagan gods associated with this time of year.
As a sincere follower of Yeshua, I am saddened with the direction taken by the majority of people in our country. Such idolatry delivered Israel and Judah into the bondage of exile. Idolatry is never good for the future of any nation.
If I am saddened by the obsession of this country's citizenry for the hideous trappings of christmas, I am horrified and angered with the blasphemous connection of Messiah and christmas by “so-called” preachers and pastors that have “gone whoring” after the gods of this holiday.
It is bad enough to pay homage to these gods by participating in the revelry of the season. However, it's a travesty of blasphemy against the person of our Adonai and Messiah to assign December 25th as the day to honor the birth of our Lord. Listed below are two more websites where sincere truth seekers can search for truth concerning the true day of our Messiah's birth.
http://www.annomundi.com/bible/birth_of_yeshua.htm
http://www.betemunah.org/birth.html
It is common knowledge that Messiah's birth is in the fall. Overwhelming Biblical evidence places His birth during the Feast of Tabernacles. How neat—one of the Hebrew feasts required in YHVH's Torah! Yet, for gain of the “almighty dollar”, preachers stand in their pulpits and lie to members of their flock—blasphemously substituting pagan rituals for YHVH's Holy Torah.
This post is not intended to win friends and influence people. It's unashamed posture is to proclaim the truth of YHVH. If feelings are hurt, then so be it. The fact is; adherence or reverence to christmas in ANY form or to ANY degree is witchcraft and idolatry. To label christmas as “the reason for the season”, or equate Messiah with any trapping of christmas is blasphemy.
With the language of this post, it should be clear as to where we stand in the matter involving this ungodly holiday. It should also be understood why I am highly grieved when someone wishes me “merry christmas”. My response is a holy “bah humbug”!
To put accent on these thoughts, I leave my readers with the words of a great man in the service of YHVH—a man highly respected by YHVH and this man. “Now therefore, fear the Lord, serve Him in sincerity and in truth, and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the river and in Egypt. Serve the Lord! And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve...but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24: 14-15
Blessed Trust--Heed The Call
Section Six
Blessed Trust
Chapter Sixteen
Heed the Call
Psalms 84: 12. “O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in You!”
Paul writes to the Philippians in 2: 5-8, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Yeshua the Messiah, who, being in the form of Yahweh, did not consider it robbery to be equal with Yahweh, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bond servant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross”.
In his commentary on this Scripture Albert Barnes writes, “If (Yeshua) was really divine, then His consenting to become a man was the greatest possible act of humiliation”. To explain the ultimate depth of love Yahweh has for us, consider Yeshua’s words through John in 3: 16. “For Yahweh so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
Paul also writes of this self-less act of our Lord to the Romans in 5: 8. “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Messiah died for us.” In v. 9, he says we have “now been justified by His blood” and “saved from wrath through Him”. In v. 10 he says “we (WERE) His enemies”. Even so, “we were reconciled to Yahweh through the death of His Son”. Even more than that reconciliation, we were “saved by His life”. And, this reconciling brings great rejoicing, as he says in v. 11.
This reconciliation is in no way part of our doing. For, Paul prefaces these preceding verses with v. 6. “For when we were still without strength, in due time Messiah died for the ungodly.” He told the Ephesians in 2: 8-9, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of Yahweh, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Then, he concludes his comments in v. 10 with, “For we are His workmanship, created in Yeshua the Messiah for good works, which Yahweh prepared beforehand that we should walk in them”.
Now is the time any preacher of YAH’s word longs for—harvest time. This is the time he takes in the harvest and reaps the fruit of his labor. The key to this altar call is found in one word in John 3: 16—“believes”. Consider what James says about the devils in 2: 19. “You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!” Therefore simple believing, head knowledge, is not the answer. The word used in consideration of “believes” signifies a complete resting upon, heart knowledge.
It is the same resting and trust that you are now portraying in reading these words. You are resting the entire weight of your body on that chair in which you are sitting. That is the trust you have in the ability of that chair to hold you up. In believing in Yeshua, the same faith and trust is evident. You simply rest your entire being, your past failures, your hopes, your dreams, everything you are and hope to be in the person of Yeshua our risen Messiah.
It is as simple as Paul said to the Roman jailer as recorded in Acts 16: 31, “Believe on the Lord and you shall be saved”. It is as simple as Paul wrote to the Romans in 10: 8-10. “…The word is near you in your mouth and in your heart…that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Yeshua and believe in your heart that Yahweh has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
I leave you with the words of an old invitational hymn favorite as I routinely perform it, and have recorded on my "Humble Beginnings" album, “Softly and Tenderly”. I invite you to heed the call of our benevolent Master Shepherd and be gloriously and eternally encouraged as the Psalmists conclude this beautiful 84th Song. “O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man (or woman) who trusts in You!”
“Softly and tenderly Yeshua is calling,
Calling for you and for me.
See on the portals He’s waiting and watching,
Watching for you and for me.
Come home, come home.
Ye who are weary come home.
Earnestly, tenderly Yeshua is calling,
O, sinner, come home.
(Narration: Yeshua said, “Come unto Me all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. For he that comes unto me, I shall in no wise…I shall in NO wise…I shall in NO WISE cast out.”)
Why should we linger when Yeshua is pleading,
Pleading for you and for me.
Why should we linger and heed not His mercies,
Mercies for you and for me?
Come home, come home.
Ye who are weary come home.
Earnestly, tenderly Yeshua is calling,
O, sinner, come home.
(Narration: Yeshua said, “Come unto Me all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest…rest for your weary, weary soul.”)!”
Thank You For Reading My Series on Psalms 84--Your Comments Are Appreciated
Blessed Trust
Chapter Sixteen
Heed the Call
Psalms 84: 12. “O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in You!”
Paul writes to the Philippians in 2: 5-8, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Yeshua the Messiah, who, being in the form of Yahweh, did not consider it robbery to be equal with Yahweh, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bond servant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross”.
In his commentary on this Scripture Albert Barnes writes, “If (Yeshua) was really divine, then His consenting to become a man was the greatest possible act of humiliation”. To explain the ultimate depth of love Yahweh has for us, consider Yeshua’s words through John in 3: 16. “For Yahweh so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
Paul also writes of this self-less act of our Lord to the Romans in 5: 8. “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Messiah died for us.” In v. 9, he says we have “now been justified by His blood” and “saved from wrath through Him”. In v. 10 he says “we (WERE) His enemies”. Even so, “we were reconciled to Yahweh through the death of His Son”. Even more than that reconciliation, we were “saved by His life”. And, this reconciling brings great rejoicing, as he says in v. 11.
This reconciliation is in no way part of our doing. For, Paul prefaces these preceding verses with v. 6. “For when we were still without strength, in due time Messiah died for the ungodly.” He told the Ephesians in 2: 8-9, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of Yahweh, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Then, he concludes his comments in v. 10 with, “For we are His workmanship, created in Yeshua the Messiah for good works, which Yahweh prepared beforehand that we should walk in them”.
Now is the time any preacher of YAH’s word longs for—harvest time. This is the time he takes in the harvest and reaps the fruit of his labor. The key to this altar call is found in one word in John 3: 16—“believes”. Consider what James says about the devils in 2: 19. “You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!” Therefore simple believing, head knowledge, is not the answer. The word used in consideration of “believes” signifies a complete resting upon, heart knowledge.
It is the same resting and trust that you are now portraying in reading these words. You are resting the entire weight of your body on that chair in which you are sitting. That is the trust you have in the ability of that chair to hold you up. In believing in Yeshua, the same faith and trust is evident. You simply rest your entire being, your past failures, your hopes, your dreams, everything you are and hope to be in the person of Yeshua our risen Messiah.
It is as simple as Paul said to the Roman jailer as recorded in Acts 16: 31, “Believe on the Lord and you shall be saved”. It is as simple as Paul wrote to the Romans in 10: 8-10. “…The word is near you in your mouth and in your heart…that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Yeshua and believe in your heart that Yahweh has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
I leave you with the words of an old invitational hymn favorite as I routinely perform it, and have recorded on my "Humble Beginnings" album, “Softly and Tenderly”. I invite you to heed the call of our benevolent Master Shepherd and be gloriously and eternally encouraged as the Psalmists conclude this beautiful 84th Song. “O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man (or woman) who trusts in You!”
“Softly and tenderly Yeshua is calling,
Calling for you and for me.
See on the portals He’s waiting and watching,
Watching for you and for me.
Come home, come home.
Ye who are weary come home.
Earnestly, tenderly Yeshua is calling,
O, sinner, come home.
(Narration: Yeshua said, “Come unto Me all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. For he that comes unto me, I shall in no wise…I shall in NO wise…I shall in NO WISE cast out.”)
Why should we linger when Yeshua is pleading,
Pleading for you and for me.
Why should we linger and heed not His mercies,
Mercies for you and for me?
Come home, come home.
Ye who are weary come home.
Earnestly, tenderly Yeshua is calling,
O, sinner, come home.
(Narration: Yeshua said, “Come unto Me all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest…rest for your weary, weary soul.”)!”
Thank You For Reading My Series on Psalms 84--Your Comments Are Appreciated
Fringe Benefits--Our Sun and Shield
Chapter Fifteen
Fringe Benefits—Our Sun and Shield
Psalms 84: 11. “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.”
I have heard it termed of service for our Lord, “The pay isn’t all that great, but the fringe benefits are out of this world”. How true that catchy little phrase is! Although we are the benefactors of YAH’s goodness, we are not guaranteed the best life can offer all the time. We must be willing to accept the bad with the good. There is great truth to the observation of our Lord through Matthew in 5: 45. “YAH makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.”
Even so, while we are in this life, Yahweh, the majestic God of Israel, is our light. He is ever-shinning His light to brighten the paths we walk according to His leading. He is ever-protecting us along the way as our Shield and Defender. Yahweh is as He promised Abram in Genesis 15: 1. “I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward”. He truly is as the Psalmists literally mean—our “splendid shield”.
While we are in this life, Yahweh bestows upon us His “glorious grace”. He blesses us with His gracious kindness. We are precious in His sight, His little children. We have the beauty of His favor. The presence of His Spirit is pleasant indeed. We are well favored in His sight. He rains down upon us His majesty, splendor, and honor—in abundance. For those that truly call upon His name, the splendor of His favor is according to His words through John in 10: 10. “I came that you may have life, and have it more abundantly.”
While we are in this life, Yahweh doesn’t fail to bestow upon his upright anything that is good. Over and over, He has been quick to reward these with His benevolent providence. It is David that sang in Psalms 34: 9-10, “Oh, fear the Lord, you His saints! There is no want to those who fear Him. The young lions lack and suffer hunger; but those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing.”
But, when this life is over, and our work on earth is done, when our trials are forever behind us, we will become the recipients of our “out of this world”, fringe benefits. We will no longer trek through our “Valley of Baca”. Sorrow, tears, and pain will be a part of a distant past. It will be as Isaiah wrote in 65: 17. “For behold, I create a new heavens and a new earth; and the former shall not be remembered or come to mind.”
For those of His faithful, remnant few, our Inheritance will be as Isaiah spoke of in 60: 19-20. “The sun shall no longer be your light by day, nor for brightness shall the moon give light to you; but the Lord will be to you and everlasting light, and Yahweh your glory. Your sun shall no longer go down, nor shall your moon withdraw itself; for Yahweh will be your everlasting light, and the days of your mourning shall be ended.”
In that day, the land of promise will be ours for eternity. Yahweh will be our eternal shield. For His faithful, remnant few, the reward will be as Isaiah continued in vv. 21-22. “Also your people shall all be righteous; they shall inherit the land forever, the branch of My planting, the work of My hands, that I may be glorified. A little one shall become a thousand and a small one a strong nation. I, Yahweh, will hasten it in its time.”
In that day, it will be as Isaiah wrote in 66: 22-23. “For as the new heavens and the new earth which I will make shall remain before Me, says Yahweh, so shall your descendants and your name remain. And it shall come to pass that from one New Moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another, all flesh shall come to worship before Me, says Yahweh.” So, live uprightly in His presence in all humility of heart, without false pride and self-piety, and be gloriously encouraged, from now throughout eternity.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Fringe Benefits—Our Sun and Shield
Psalms 84: 11. “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.”
I have heard it termed of service for our Lord, “The pay isn’t all that great, but the fringe benefits are out of this world”. How true that catchy little phrase is! Although we are the benefactors of YAH’s goodness, we are not guaranteed the best life can offer all the time. We must be willing to accept the bad with the good. There is great truth to the observation of our Lord through Matthew in 5: 45. “YAH makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.”
Even so, while we are in this life, Yahweh, the majestic God of Israel, is our light. He is ever-shinning His light to brighten the paths we walk according to His leading. He is ever-protecting us along the way as our Shield and Defender. Yahweh is as He promised Abram in Genesis 15: 1. “I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward”. He truly is as the Psalmists literally mean—our “splendid shield”.
While we are in this life, Yahweh bestows upon us His “glorious grace”. He blesses us with His gracious kindness. We are precious in His sight, His little children. We have the beauty of His favor. The presence of His Spirit is pleasant indeed. We are well favored in His sight. He rains down upon us His majesty, splendor, and honor—in abundance. For those that truly call upon His name, the splendor of His favor is according to His words through John in 10: 10. “I came that you may have life, and have it more abundantly.”
While we are in this life, Yahweh doesn’t fail to bestow upon his upright anything that is good. Over and over, He has been quick to reward these with His benevolent providence. It is David that sang in Psalms 34: 9-10, “Oh, fear the Lord, you His saints! There is no want to those who fear Him. The young lions lack and suffer hunger; but those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing.”
But, when this life is over, and our work on earth is done, when our trials are forever behind us, we will become the recipients of our “out of this world”, fringe benefits. We will no longer trek through our “Valley of Baca”. Sorrow, tears, and pain will be a part of a distant past. It will be as Isaiah wrote in 65: 17. “For behold, I create a new heavens and a new earth; and the former shall not be remembered or come to mind.”
For those of His faithful, remnant few, our Inheritance will be as Isaiah spoke of in 60: 19-20. “The sun shall no longer be your light by day, nor for brightness shall the moon give light to you; but the Lord will be to you and everlasting light, and Yahweh your glory. Your sun shall no longer go down, nor shall your moon withdraw itself; for Yahweh will be your everlasting light, and the days of your mourning shall be ended.”
In that day, the land of promise will be ours for eternity. Yahweh will be our eternal shield. For His faithful, remnant few, the reward will be as Isaiah continued in vv. 21-22. “Also your people shall all be righteous; they shall inherit the land forever, the branch of My planting, the work of My hands, that I may be glorified. A little one shall become a thousand and a small one a strong nation. I, Yahweh, will hasten it in its time.”
In that day, it will be as Isaiah wrote in 66: 22-23. “For as the new heavens and the new earth which I will make shall remain before Me, says Yahweh, so shall your descendants and your name remain. And it shall come to pass that from one New Moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another, all flesh shall come to worship before Me, says Yahweh.” So, live uprightly in His presence in all humility of heart, without false pride and self-piety, and be gloriously encouraged, from now throughout eternity.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Humility In Service--A Day In Your Courts
Section Five
Humility in Service
Chapter Fourteen
A Day in Your Courts
Psalms 84: 10. “For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.”
There is a common thread of contrast I try to bring out in all of my writings. That is the ever-perpetual controversy between man’s wisdom and YAH’s wisdom. And, as always, His wisdom ever-confounds the wisest of men. For, it is the prophet Isaiah that wrote of YAH in 55: 9, “For, as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts”.
There are many that fill pews in our churches and fellowships, some to overflowing. There are many that desire the goodness of our Lord. John records in 6: 28 this desire of the people among the 5000 Yeshua had just fed. “Then they said to Him, ‘What shall we do, that we may work the works of YAH?” Yet, for unwillingness and/or inability to relinquish hold on personal comfort or understanding in favor of the wisdom of our Lord, many of these fell by the wayside and no longer followed in the purity of His ways.
Even so, there is a remnant few that are as John records Yeshua speaking of in 6: 45, “It is written in the prophets, ‘and they shall all be taught by Yahweh’. Therefore everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Me.” These are not offended by the teaching of their Lord. They may not totally understand what He is teaching. Yet, there is a ring of truth in their minds regarding His words. There is a drawing of the Spirit that captivates their very souls.
For the majority of these to whom Yeshua spoke, offense was taken. As with these, many in our day follow suit, take offense, form doctrines and fellowships more palatable to their senses, or just fall away altogether. Yet, for YAH’s elect, His chosen, His remnant few, the response is as Peter responded in 6: 68-69 to our Lord asking if they too would “go away”. “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
For Peter, there was no other viable choice. For the precious few that remained at Yeshua’s side, the words of their Master Shepherd gave comfort and satisfaction to their parched souls. There was peace and fulfillment in His blessed presence. Therefore, it is no wonder Peter would respond as he did.
Peter’s words are different. Yet, the intent of meaning, the mind-set, the matter of his heart, was no different than the same of the Psalmists in 84: 10—“For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand”. For Peter and the Psalmists, there was intrinsic value in that short time with their Lord that was more than a thousand times greater than in the presence of wickedness.
For them, it was far better to humbly serve as a janitor in the House of the Lord, than to stand in great places and receive the accolades of men. For them, it was far better to receive the “well done good and faithful servant” accolades of their Master Shepherd. Yes, for them, there was no other sensible choice.
As they daily walked with their Messiah, they built their lives upon and around the words of their Lord, “He that desires to be the greatest among you must be the servant of all”. As they learned and built upon this humble lesson, they found encouragement that literally permeated their soul and spirit. Follow this example, my friends, and likewise be greatly encouraged!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Humility in Service
Chapter Fourteen
A Day in Your Courts
Psalms 84: 10. “For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.”
There is a common thread of contrast I try to bring out in all of my writings. That is the ever-perpetual controversy between man’s wisdom and YAH’s wisdom. And, as always, His wisdom ever-confounds the wisest of men. For, it is the prophet Isaiah that wrote of YAH in 55: 9, “For, as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts”.
There are many that fill pews in our churches and fellowships, some to overflowing. There are many that desire the goodness of our Lord. John records in 6: 28 this desire of the people among the 5000 Yeshua had just fed. “Then they said to Him, ‘What shall we do, that we may work the works of YAH?” Yet, for unwillingness and/or inability to relinquish hold on personal comfort or understanding in favor of the wisdom of our Lord, many of these fell by the wayside and no longer followed in the purity of His ways.
Even so, there is a remnant few that are as John records Yeshua speaking of in 6: 45, “It is written in the prophets, ‘and they shall all be taught by Yahweh’. Therefore everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Me.” These are not offended by the teaching of their Lord. They may not totally understand what He is teaching. Yet, there is a ring of truth in their minds regarding His words. There is a drawing of the Spirit that captivates their very souls.
For the majority of these to whom Yeshua spoke, offense was taken. As with these, many in our day follow suit, take offense, form doctrines and fellowships more palatable to their senses, or just fall away altogether. Yet, for YAH’s elect, His chosen, His remnant few, the response is as Peter responded in 6: 68-69 to our Lord asking if they too would “go away”. “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
For Peter, there was no other viable choice. For the precious few that remained at Yeshua’s side, the words of their Master Shepherd gave comfort and satisfaction to their parched souls. There was peace and fulfillment in His blessed presence. Therefore, it is no wonder Peter would respond as he did.
Peter’s words are different. Yet, the intent of meaning, the mind-set, the matter of his heart, was no different than the same of the Psalmists in 84: 10—“For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand”. For Peter and the Psalmists, there was intrinsic value in that short time with their Lord that was more than a thousand times greater than in the presence of wickedness.
For them, it was far better to humbly serve as a janitor in the House of the Lord, than to stand in great places and receive the accolades of men. For them, it was far better to receive the “well done good and faithful servant” accolades of their Master Shepherd. Yes, for them, there was no other sensible choice.
As they daily walked with their Messiah, they built their lives upon and around the words of their Lord, “He that desires to be the greatest among you must be the servant of all”. As they learned and built upon this humble lesson, they found encouragement that literally permeated their soul and spirit. Follow this example, my friends, and likewise be greatly encouraged!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Precious Seed of Promise
Chapter Thirteen
Precious Seed of Promise
Psalms 84: 9. “O God, behold our Shield and look upon the face of Your Anointed”.
As the Psalmists suggest, let's look upon "His Anointed". From the beginning, everything has proceeded according to YAH’s plan. He made covenant with Abraham and passed it to Isaac and Jacob. Then, He made covenant with His people through Moses, and eventually to David. And, it is David that spoke so eloquently of the Seed of these covenants. He said in 110: 2 of the Psalms, “The Lord shall send the Rod of Your Strength out of Tsiyon. Rule in the midst of your enemies!”
Of this Rod of Strength, Micah writes in 5: 4, “And He shall stand and feed His flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord His God. And they shall abide, for now He shall be great to the ends of the earth”.
David opened the 110th Song with, “The Lord said to my Lord, sit at My right hand, till I make Your enemies Your footstool”. And, He said of this “Rod of Strength” Seed in v. 4, “The Lord has sworn and will not relent, You are a Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek”.
Paul writes to the Galatians in 3: 26, “For you are all sons of God through faith in Yeshua the Messiah”. Our faith in Him and acceptance of His sacrificial gift of life has made us to become a part of the group called the “sons of God”. It is a faith spoken of by John in 1: 12, “But, as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name”.
Although we were once His enemies, we are now His adopted sons. It is as Jeremiah wrote in Lamentations 3: 22, “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compasions fail not.” Even though condemnation was duly ours, we now possess an eternal inheritance from our Father, Yahweh. It is as Paul wrote in 4: 7 to the Galatians, “… you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Yeshua the Messiah”.
There is blessed truth of inheritance for us in the words of Paul to the Ephesians in 2: 12-13. He says, “…at the time you were without Messiah, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But, now in Yeshua the Messiah you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Messiah.”
The simplicity of Yeshua’s gift of life is spelled out in His words through John in 3: 16. “For Yahweh so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” So simple, yet so easily stumbled over!
Paul tells the Galatians in 3: 27, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Yeshua the Messiah”. Individually and collectively we are bonded together in Israel’s Messiah. Then, Paul sums up our inheritance in v. 29. “If you are Messiah's, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”
Regardless of who we are, regardless of our social status, in Messiah we are partakers of His precious covenant with us through Abraham. Whether we are of the Natural Olive Tree (native born) or the Wild Olive Tree (adopted son), those of us that answer His calling of grace are “grafted into” the “Commonwealth of Israel”.
What a glorious inheritance! The Seed of YAH’s covenant has become our High Priest. Turn from the ways of disobedience. Cleanse your heart and “come before His presence with thanksgiving”. In so doing, He receives from us honor, glory, and dominion—that which is duly His. Thereby, He makes our hearts to be greatly encouraged through the covering shield of His compassionate providence!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Precious Seed of Promise
Psalms 84: 9. “O God, behold our Shield and look upon the face of Your Anointed”.
As the Psalmists suggest, let's look upon "His Anointed". From the beginning, everything has proceeded according to YAH’s plan. He made covenant with Abraham and passed it to Isaac and Jacob. Then, He made covenant with His people through Moses, and eventually to David. And, it is David that spoke so eloquently of the Seed of these covenants. He said in 110: 2 of the Psalms, “The Lord shall send the Rod of Your Strength out of Tsiyon. Rule in the midst of your enemies!”
Of this Rod of Strength, Micah writes in 5: 4, “And He shall stand and feed His flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord His God. And they shall abide, for now He shall be great to the ends of the earth”.
David opened the 110th Song with, “The Lord said to my Lord, sit at My right hand, till I make Your enemies Your footstool”. And, He said of this “Rod of Strength” Seed in v. 4, “The Lord has sworn and will not relent, You are a Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek”.
Paul writes to the Galatians in 3: 26, “For you are all sons of God through faith in Yeshua the Messiah”. Our faith in Him and acceptance of His sacrificial gift of life has made us to become a part of the group called the “sons of God”. It is a faith spoken of by John in 1: 12, “But, as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name”.
Although we were once His enemies, we are now His adopted sons. It is as Jeremiah wrote in Lamentations 3: 22, “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compasions fail not.” Even though condemnation was duly ours, we now possess an eternal inheritance from our Father, Yahweh. It is as Paul wrote in 4: 7 to the Galatians, “… you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Yeshua the Messiah”.
There is blessed truth of inheritance for us in the words of Paul to the Ephesians in 2: 12-13. He says, “…at the time you were without Messiah, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But, now in Yeshua the Messiah you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Messiah.”
The simplicity of Yeshua’s gift of life is spelled out in His words through John in 3: 16. “For Yahweh so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” So simple, yet so easily stumbled over!
Paul tells the Galatians in 3: 27, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Yeshua the Messiah”. Individually and collectively we are bonded together in Israel’s Messiah. Then, Paul sums up our inheritance in v. 29. “If you are Messiah's, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”
Regardless of who we are, regardless of our social status, in Messiah we are partakers of His precious covenant with us through Abraham. Whether we are of the Natural Olive Tree (native born) or the Wild Olive Tree (adopted son), those of us that answer His calling of grace are “grafted into” the “Commonwealth of Israel”.
What a glorious inheritance! The Seed of YAH’s covenant has become our High Priest. Turn from the ways of disobedience. Cleanse your heart and “come before His presence with thanksgiving”. In so doing, He receives from us honor, glory, and dominion—that which is duly His. Thereby, He makes our hearts to be greatly encouraged through the covering shield of His compassionate providence!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Rembrance of Providence--Heartfelt Reminders
Heartfelt Reminders
(Part 3 of Three)
Yet, for the person with a sincere, truly circumcised heart after the Father, the words they hear are found in Ezekiel 16: 60-61. “Nevertheless I will remember My covenant with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish an everlasting covenant with you. Then you will remember your ways and be ashamed…” These will see the vast difference between their goodness and Yahweh’s goodness. They will possess a heart-set that is “broken and contrite”.
For these remnant few, Yahweh has sent a Redeemer. He continues through Ezekiel and says in v. 62, “I will establish My covenant with you. Then you shall know that I am the Lord…when I provide you an atonement for all you have done”. For these remnant few, the prophecy of Zacharias in Luke 1 speaks of this “Atonement”, our promised Redeemer, Messiah.
In v. 68, he asserts that Yahweh has “visited and redeemed His people”. In v. 69, he says this Redeemer is “raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David”. Spoken of since the beginning of time, He has come to purchase us back from our enemy—with every drop of His precious blood. In vv. 72-73, Zacharias says our Redeemer has come “to perform the mercy promised to our fathers and to remember His holy covenant, the oath which He swore to our father Abraham”.
Then, he speaks of our blessed benefit through our Redeemer in vv. 74-75. His coming is “to grant us that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life”.
Bow before Yeshua, the Son of David, The Seed of His covenant through Abraham. With a “broken and contrite heart”, yield to His life-giving ways, as did the singers of the 84th Psalm, and be blessed with His encouraging “peace that passes all understanding”.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
(Part 3 of Three)
Yet, for the person with a sincere, truly circumcised heart after the Father, the words they hear are found in Ezekiel 16: 60-61. “Nevertheless I will remember My covenant with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish an everlasting covenant with you. Then you will remember your ways and be ashamed…” These will see the vast difference between their goodness and Yahweh’s goodness. They will possess a heart-set that is “broken and contrite”.
For these remnant few, Yahweh has sent a Redeemer. He continues through Ezekiel and says in v. 62, “I will establish My covenant with you. Then you shall know that I am the Lord…when I provide you an atonement for all you have done”. For these remnant few, the prophecy of Zacharias in Luke 1 speaks of this “Atonement”, our promised Redeemer, Messiah.
In v. 68, he asserts that Yahweh has “visited and redeemed His people”. In v. 69, he says this Redeemer is “raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David”. Spoken of since the beginning of time, He has come to purchase us back from our enemy—with every drop of His precious blood. In vv. 72-73, Zacharias says our Redeemer has come “to perform the mercy promised to our fathers and to remember His holy covenant, the oath which He swore to our father Abraham”.
Then, he speaks of our blessed benefit through our Redeemer in vv. 74-75. His coming is “to grant us that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life”.
Bow before Yeshua, the Son of David, The Seed of His covenant through Abraham. With a “broken and contrite heart”, yield to His life-giving ways, as did the singers of the 84th Psalm, and be blessed with His encouraging “peace that passes all understanding”.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Rembrance of Providence--Humble Reminders
Humble Reminders
(Part 2 of Three)
Repentance is a matter of the heart. Unless the heart is circumcised in humility, confession is mere emptiness. There must be a diametric change of focus—a sincere exchange of our ways for YAH’s ways. Such was not the case for these in Jeremiah 14. They did what most do in our day. They use words of repentance, expect God to remember His covenant, all the while they resist turning from their own way.
There is convicting terminology in the opening statement of our Lord. He says “they LOVE to wander”. This is their heart-set. There is no changing it. Mercy would make a mockery of our Lord’s justice. For these people, and those like them in our day, punishment will be swift and sure when it comes—for all to see just as for these.
Jeremiah records in vv. 11-12 a curious statement from our Lord, one that appears to parallel a divinely inspired statement by John in his first epistle concerning the “sin unto death”. God says through Jeremiah, “Do not pray for this people, for their good. When they fast, I will not hear their cry; and when they offer burnt offering and grain offering, I will not accept them. But I will consume them by the sword, by the famine, and by the pestilence”.
There is a point beyond which any person can go in regards to rejection of God’s ways in favor of their ways. It is what has been termed as “a point of no return”. In his first epistle, John put is this way in 5: 16, “If anyone sees his brother sinning a sin which does not lead to death, he will ask, and He will give him life for those who commit sin not leading to death. There is sin leading to death. I do not say that he should pray about that”—the same verbiage used in Jeremiah 14: 11.
It is a sin against the Holy Spirit. It is a “heart-set” that willingly presumes our ways against our Lord’s ways—a sin against the work and will of the Holy Spirit that calls evil good and good evil. The future of this person or people is described by the writer of Hebrews in 10: 27. He says “There no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries.”
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
(Part 2 of Three)
Repentance is a matter of the heart. Unless the heart is circumcised in humility, confession is mere emptiness. There must be a diametric change of focus—a sincere exchange of our ways for YAH’s ways. Such was not the case for these in Jeremiah 14. They did what most do in our day. They use words of repentance, expect God to remember His covenant, all the while they resist turning from their own way.
There is convicting terminology in the opening statement of our Lord. He says “they LOVE to wander”. This is their heart-set. There is no changing it. Mercy would make a mockery of our Lord’s justice. For these people, and those like them in our day, punishment will be swift and sure when it comes—for all to see just as for these.
Jeremiah records in vv. 11-12 a curious statement from our Lord, one that appears to parallel a divinely inspired statement by John in his first epistle concerning the “sin unto death”. God says through Jeremiah, “Do not pray for this people, for their good. When they fast, I will not hear their cry; and when they offer burnt offering and grain offering, I will not accept them. But I will consume them by the sword, by the famine, and by the pestilence”.
There is a point beyond which any person can go in regards to rejection of God’s ways in favor of their ways. It is what has been termed as “a point of no return”. In his first epistle, John put is this way in 5: 16, “If anyone sees his brother sinning a sin which does not lead to death, he will ask, and He will give him life for those who commit sin not leading to death. There is sin leading to death. I do not say that he should pray about that”—the same verbiage used in Jeremiah 14: 11.
It is a sin against the Holy Spirit. It is a “heart-set” that willingly presumes our ways against our Lord’s ways—a sin against the work and will of the Holy Spirit that calls evil good and good evil. The future of this person or people is described by the writer of Hebrews in 10: 27. He says “There no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries.”
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Rembrance of Providence--Gentle Reminders
Chapter Twelve
Remembrance of Providence
Psalms 84: 8b. “Hear my prayer; Give ear, O God of Jacob!”
Gentle Reminders
(Part 1 of Three)
The Psalmists use in 84: 8 the phrase, “…hear my prayer; give ear…” We hear and understand the precious promises of our great God of Israel. Yet, in our finite, human condition, we cannot but help letting our doubt creep into our verbiage. The Psalmists here are no different. They know their Lord will never leave or forsake them, yet they must utter such phrases of humility, for their benefit, to remind Yahweh of His promises.
Yahweh says in Leviticus 26: 40-43, “If they confess their iniquity and the iniquity of their fathers…in which they were unfaithful to Me, and that they also have walked contrary to Me…if their uncircumcised hearts are humbled, and they accept their guilt—then I will remember My covenant with Jacob and My covenant with Isaac and My covenant with Abraham I will remember”.
The land that is ours, the very land of our personal being, has been laid desolate because of disobedience since the day of Adam—walking in our own judgment. Yet, a turning from our ways to His ways garners the blessed promise of our Lord, as He continues in v. 45. “But for their sake I will remember the covenant of their ancestors, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt in the sight of the nations, that I might be their God: I AM THE LORD!”
It is our shepherd king, David that so eloquently portrays this life-giving repentance. He sings in Psalms 25: 4-5, “Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me”. This shepherd bowed him self low before His God. He sang in vv. 6-7, “Remember, O Lord, Your tender mercies and Your loving kindnesses, for they are from old. Do not remember the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions; according to Your mercy remember me, for Your goodness’ sake, O Lord”.
When we humble our selves as did David, we have YAH’s comforting favor. Yet, it was different for the people of Jeremiah that refused to humble them selves before Yahweh. YAH says of these people through Jeremiah in 14: 10, “Thus they have loved to wander; they have not restrained their feet. Therefore the Lord does not accept them; He will remember their iniquity now, and punish their sins”.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Remembrance of Providence
Psalms 84: 8b. “Hear my prayer; Give ear, O God of Jacob!”
Gentle Reminders
(Part 1 of Three)
The Psalmists use in 84: 8 the phrase, “…hear my prayer; give ear…” We hear and understand the precious promises of our great God of Israel. Yet, in our finite, human condition, we cannot but help letting our doubt creep into our verbiage. The Psalmists here are no different. They know their Lord will never leave or forsake them, yet they must utter such phrases of humility, for their benefit, to remind Yahweh of His promises.
Yahweh says in Leviticus 26: 40-43, “If they confess their iniquity and the iniquity of their fathers…in which they were unfaithful to Me, and that they also have walked contrary to Me…if their uncircumcised hearts are humbled, and they accept their guilt—then I will remember My covenant with Jacob and My covenant with Isaac and My covenant with Abraham I will remember”.
The land that is ours, the very land of our personal being, has been laid desolate because of disobedience since the day of Adam—walking in our own judgment. Yet, a turning from our ways to His ways garners the blessed promise of our Lord, as He continues in v. 45. “But for their sake I will remember the covenant of their ancestors, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt in the sight of the nations, that I might be their God: I AM THE LORD!”
It is our shepherd king, David that so eloquently portrays this life-giving repentance. He sings in Psalms 25: 4-5, “Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me”. This shepherd bowed him self low before His God. He sang in vv. 6-7, “Remember, O Lord, Your tender mercies and Your loving kindnesses, for they are from old. Do not remember the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions; according to Your mercy remember me, for Your goodness’ sake, O Lord”.
When we humble our selves as did David, we have YAH’s comforting favor. Yet, it was different for the people of Jeremiah that refused to humble them selves before Yahweh. YAH says of these people through Jeremiah in 14: 10, “Thus they have loved to wander; they have not restrained their feet. Therefore the Lord does not accept them; He will remember their iniquity now, and punish their sins”.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Supremacy of Yahweh--God of Armies
Section Four
Supremacy of Yahweh
Chapter Eleven
God of Armies
Psalms 84: 8a. “O Lord God of hosts…”
Moses writes in Deuteronomy 6: 4, “(Shema) Hear O Israel: the Lord our God is one! You shall love the Lord your God with all you heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength”. As Moses said to Israel, I say “Shema”, pay attention, my friends. The supremacy of our God is assured. There is none before Him. There will be none after Him. He is the “Aleph and Tov”—“the Beginning and the End”. He commands the true depth of the meaning of "Shema", "hear and obey".
The commandment due our attention is to “love the Lord (our) God with all (our) heart, with all (our) soul, and with all (our) strength”. It is not for us to render allegiance once in a while or when it suits us. It is for us to surrender our “ALL” to Him—“in everything”, as Paul said to the wives in Ephesians. As the bride of Yahweh our Messiah, it is not a surrender that is half-hearted. It is a subordination of self that is “with all (our) soul, and with all (our) strength”.
Sadly, only a small remnant will faithfully surrender their all. Others will mire themselves in varying levels of the cares of the world. They choose the easy route, mix the purity of God with the impurity of the world, and become tainted of spirit and soul. For these and the faithful, it will be as Paul wrote to the Galatians in 6: 7-8. “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows that will he also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.”
Sooner or later, “self” pride will give occasion for our great God to demonstrate His supremacy. Such was the case for Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon. His prideful boast in Daniel 4: 30 set the stage for a demonstration of humbling proportions. Relegated to his living “dream world”, he crawled on hand and knee in the field and ate grass as the cattle.
When he literally crawled out of his “dream world”, he said, in v. 34, “I blessed the Most High and praised and honored Him who live forever”. He acknowledges YAH’s “dominion is an everlasting dominion” and that His “kingdom is from generation to generation”. It’s rather apparent this man learned his lesson well, for, he begins v. 35 with “all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing”.
In diametric irony to the ideals of men, he acknowledges YAH’s unquestioned status as “Commander-in-Chief” of the armies of heaven. He positively declares YAH “does according to His will” and that “no one can restrain His hand”. He even says we have no place to question His decisions. As the Psalmists say with the phrase, “O Lord God of hosts”, YAH truly and literally is our “God of armies”, a premise Paul so eloquently articulates to the Romans in 9: 20.
The question of consideration is not necessarily one of right or wrong choices, but, rather, a matter of the heart. Is the basis of choice founded in God and His supreme directive, or of “self”? For Nebuchadnezzar, life in the palace and personal pride in his achievements weren’t the problem. It was his improper focus. He needed an “attitude adjustment”. When the lesson was learned, blessed forgiveness and restoration were extended, as is seen in v. 36.
As it was with Nebuchadnezzar, so it may be for us today. It may not be the choice, but the reason or basis for the choice. Is it God’s; or, is it our choice? The wrong foundation makes the choice wrong, even if it’s right. The king concludes in v. 37 with, “Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, all of whose works are truth, and His ways justice. And those that walk in pride He is able to put down”.
I encourage all to yield to the supreme direction of our benevolent Messiah and confess with our heart, as Nebuchadnezzar, concerning every facet of our lives. It is a heart-felt confession that leads us to answered prayers. And, our faithful standing at His side leads to the sweetness of His encouraging providence.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Supremacy of Yahweh
Chapter Eleven
God of Armies
Psalms 84: 8a. “O Lord God of hosts…”
Moses writes in Deuteronomy 6: 4, “(Shema) Hear O Israel: the Lord our God is one! You shall love the Lord your God with all you heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength”. As Moses said to Israel, I say “Shema”, pay attention, my friends. The supremacy of our God is assured. There is none before Him. There will be none after Him. He is the “Aleph and Tov”—“the Beginning and the End”. He commands the true depth of the meaning of "Shema", "hear and obey".
The commandment due our attention is to “love the Lord (our) God with all (our) heart, with all (our) soul, and with all (our) strength”. It is not for us to render allegiance once in a while or when it suits us. It is for us to surrender our “ALL” to Him—“in everything”, as Paul said to the wives in Ephesians. As the bride of Yahweh our Messiah, it is not a surrender that is half-hearted. It is a subordination of self that is “with all (our) soul, and with all (our) strength”.
Sadly, only a small remnant will faithfully surrender their all. Others will mire themselves in varying levels of the cares of the world. They choose the easy route, mix the purity of God with the impurity of the world, and become tainted of spirit and soul. For these and the faithful, it will be as Paul wrote to the Galatians in 6: 7-8. “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows that will he also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.”
Sooner or later, “self” pride will give occasion for our great God to demonstrate His supremacy. Such was the case for Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon. His prideful boast in Daniel 4: 30 set the stage for a demonstration of humbling proportions. Relegated to his living “dream world”, he crawled on hand and knee in the field and ate grass as the cattle.
When he literally crawled out of his “dream world”, he said, in v. 34, “I blessed the Most High and praised and honored Him who live forever”. He acknowledges YAH’s “dominion is an everlasting dominion” and that His “kingdom is from generation to generation”. It’s rather apparent this man learned his lesson well, for, he begins v. 35 with “all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing”.
In diametric irony to the ideals of men, he acknowledges YAH’s unquestioned status as “Commander-in-Chief” of the armies of heaven. He positively declares YAH “does according to His will” and that “no one can restrain His hand”. He even says we have no place to question His decisions. As the Psalmists say with the phrase, “O Lord God of hosts”, YAH truly and literally is our “God of armies”, a premise Paul so eloquently articulates to the Romans in 9: 20.
The question of consideration is not necessarily one of right or wrong choices, but, rather, a matter of the heart. Is the basis of choice founded in God and His supreme directive, or of “self”? For Nebuchadnezzar, life in the palace and personal pride in his achievements weren’t the problem. It was his improper focus. He needed an “attitude adjustment”. When the lesson was learned, blessed forgiveness and restoration were extended, as is seen in v. 36.
As it was with Nebuchadnezzar, so it may be for us today. It may not be the choice, but the reason or basis for the choice. Is it God’s; or, is it our choice? The wrong foundation makes the choice wrong, even if it’s right. The king concludes in v. 37 with, “Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, all of whose works are truth, and His ways justice. And those that walk in pride He is able to put down”.
I encourage all to yield to the supreme direction of our benevolent Messiah and confess with our heart, as Nebuchadnezzar, concerning every facet of our lives. It is a heart-felt confession that leads us to answered prayers. And, our faithful standing at His side leads to the sweetness of His encouraging providence.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
From Strength To Strength--A Walk In Maturity
A Walk In Maturity
(Part 4 of Four)
As we continue to add strength upon strength, every part of our lives teem and run over with YAH’s agape love. We love our Lord because He first loved us. Because He loved us first, even when we rejected Him, we so love our neighbor, with no expectation of love in return. That is the “self”-less love that issues directly from the heart of the Father.
It is a love Paul described for the Corinthians in 13: 4-8 of his first letter. “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity but rejoices in truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.” Paul concludes his thoughts in v. 13 with, “Now abide faith, hope, and love, these three; but the greatest of these is love”.
This is the progression of “strength to strength” I believe our loving Lord wants for us. It is a progression I believe the sons of Korah envisioned in this Psalm. It is a progression from childhood to spiritually mature adulthood Paul wrote of in chapter 13 of his first letter to the Corinthians. It’s also a progression Peter articulates in his epistle.
Those that neglect this progression in their lives are as Peter says in v. 9, “short-sighted, even to blindness, and have forgotten (they) were cleansed from (their) old sins.” These will live in misery and maybe never even realize it. Yet, those that truly “go from strength to strength” make their “election and calling sure and never stumble”, as Peter says in v. 10.
Rather than just climb out of our valleys up the mountains before us, we now are enabled to dance upon the mountaintops, as the Shulamite woman said of Solomon in 2: 8 of his song. “The voice of my Beloved (Yeshua, my Husband)! Behold He comes leaping on the mountains, skipping on the hills”. Go from His strength to His strength, my friends, and be eternally encouraged both now and when you “appear before Yeshua in Tsiyon!”
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
(Part 4 of Four)
As we continue to add strength upon strength, every part of our lives teem and run over with YAH’s agape love. We love our Lord because He first loved us. Because He loved us first, even when we rejected Him, we so love our neighbor, with no expectation of love in return. That is the “self”-less love that issues directly from the heart of the Father.
It is a love Paul described for the Corinthians in 13: 4-8 of his first letter. “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity but rejoices in truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.” Paul concludes his thoughts in v. 13 with, “Now abide faith, hope, and love, these three; but the greatest of these is love”.
This is the progression of “strength to strength” I believe our loving Lord wants for us. It is a progression I believe the sons of Korah envisioned in this Psalm. It is a progression from childhood to spiritually mature adulthood Paul wrote of in chapter 13 of his first letter to the Corinthians. It’s also a progression Peter articulates in his epistle.
Those that neglect this progression in their lives are as Peter says in v. 9, “short-sighted, even to blindness, and have forgotten (they) were cleansed from (their) old sins.” These will live in misery and maybe never even realize it. Yet, those that truly “go from strength to strength” make their “election and calling sure and never stumble”, as Peter says in v. 10.
Rather than just climb out of our valleys up the mountains before us, we now are enabled to dance upon the mountaintops, as the Shulamite woman said of Solomon in 2: 8 of his song. “The voice of my Beloved (Yeshua, my Husband)! Behold He comes leaping on the mountains, skipping on the hills”. Go from His strength to His strength, my friends, and be eternally encouraged both now and when you “appear before Yeshua in Tsiyon!”
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
From Strength To Strength--Self Will Relinquished
Self Will Relinquished
(Part 3 of Four)
In the next level of our walk with our Lord, we move from the strength of mere acceptance of YAH’s ways to the strength of allowing Him direct access to our lives, helping us better conform to Him as Paul said. As we begin to know more of Him, we no longer relegate Him to the “co-pilot seat”. We make Him the “Pilot”—“The Captain”. We do like Greyhound Bus asks, “leave the driving to (Him)”.
With strength gained from promoting our Lord to the “driver’s seat” of our lives, we no longer bear the strain of stressful decision making. With our great God of Israel in the “Captain’s seat”, we are free to relax in obedience to Him, and gain the strength of self-control. With our Lord “doing the driving”, we are better able to master our fallen human nature. With this strength gained, the passions of our human will no longer control us; we control them.
To this building block of our walk, we perfect the strength of “perseverance”. In the relaxing time of letting our Lord direct our paths, we learn to trust. In that, our faith is strengthened. We stand tall in confidence because of Yeshua’s encouraging leadership. We realize and employ the very heart of perseverance. We implicitly trust our Messiah Who has ALL circumstances under His control, as Paul said in Romans 8: 28. With this strengthened faith, we are encouraged and enabled to resist discouragement and the temptation to give up.
As we grow in our Lord, we become more like Him. We better understand how He thinks—“the mind of Messiah” as Paul said. The more we release control of our lives to His direction, the closer we come to manifesting the concept expressed in Peter’s word, “godliness”. We have an ever-growing awareness of His peaceful presence in our lives, producing even greater strength.
As we approach ever-closer to His Throne of Grace, we fulfill at even greater levels Yeshua’s command to “love our neighbor as our selves”. The added strength of our “godliness” enables us to convey His immense kindness to those He places in our care. We readily render “self”-less service when and where it is needed—according to His standards, not man’s standards. If we say we love Yahweh and fail to render such compassion, our claim is false, as John wrote in 4: 20 of his first epistle.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
(Part 3 of Four)
In the next level of our walk with our Lord, we move from the strength of mere acceptance of YAH’s ways to the strength of allowing Him direct access to our lives, helping us better conform to Him as Paul said. As we begin to know more of Him, we no longer relegate Him to the “co-pilot seat”. We make Him the “Pilot”—“The Captain”. We do like Greyhound Bus asks, “leave the driving to (Him)”.
With strength gained from promoting our Lord to the “driver’s seat” of our lives, we no longer bear the strain of stressful decision making. With our great God of Israel in the “Captain’s seat”, we are free to relax in obedience to Him, and gain the strength of self-control. With our Lord “doing the driving”, we are better able to master our fallen human nature. With this strength gained, the passions of our human will no longer control us; we control them.
To this building block of our walk, we perfect the strength of “perseverance”. In the relaxing time of letting our Lord direct our paths, we learn to trust. In that, our faith is strengthened. We stand tall in confidence because of Yeshua’s encouraging leadership. We realize and employ the very heart of perseverance. We implicitly trust our Messiah Who has ALL circumstances under His control, as Paul said in Romans 8: 28. With this strengthened faith, we are encouraged and enabled to resist discouragement and the temptation to give up.
As we grow in our Lord, we become more like Him. We better understand how He thinks—“the mind of Messiah” as Paul said. The more we release control of our lives to His direction, the closer we come to manifesting the concept expressed in Peter’s word, “godliness”. We have an ever-growing awareness of His peaceful presence in our lives, producing even greater strength.
As we approach ever-closer to His Throne of Grace, we fulfill at even greater levels Yeshua’s command to “love our neighbor as our selves”. The added strength of our “godliness” enables us to convey His immense kindness to those He places in our care. We readily render “self”-less service when and where it is needed—according to His standards, not man’s standards. If we say we love Yahweh and fail to render such compassion, our claim is false, as John wrote in 4: 20 of his first epistle.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
From Strength To Strength--A Work In Progress
A Work In Progress
(Part 2 of Four)
Peter begins a “strength to strength” progression of Yah's care in 1: 5 of his second epistle with, “giving all diligence…” When we take special care to subordinate our will to YAH’s direction and live in harmony with our brother we begin to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Yeshua the Messiah”, as Peter wrote in 3: 18 of the same letter. When we willingly place our selves in the expert care of our Master Shepherd, we begin to adorn our selves in His excellence.
In this diligence, we “add to (our) faith virtue”. We choose the purity of His ways rather than the ever-shifting sands of our ways. We don’t conform to the world; we allow our selves to be “transformed by the renewing of (our) mind”, as Paul wrote to the Romans in 12: 2. With just the right amount of friction and resistance allowed by our Lord, we add strength of virtue to strength of obedient faith.
Our shepherd king, David, sang in Psalms 25: 4-5, “Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; on You I wait all the day”.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
(Part 2 of Four)
Peter begins a “strength to strength” progression of Yah's care in 1: 5 of his second epistle with, “giving all diligence…” When we take special care to subordinate our will to YAH’s direction and live in harmony with our brother we begin to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Yeshua the Messiah”, as Peter wrote in 3: 18 of the same letter. When we willingly place our selves in the expert care of our Master Shepherd, we begin to adorn our selves in His excellence.
In this diligence, we “add to (our) faith virtue”. We choose the purity of His ways rather than the ever-shifting sands of our ways. We don’t conform to the world; we allow our selves to be “transformed by the renewing of (our) mind”, as Paul wrote to the Romans in 12: 2. With just the right amount of friction and resistance allowed by our Lord, we add strength of virtue to strength of obedient faith.
Our shepherd king, David, sang in Psalms 25: 4-5, “Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; on You I wait all the day”.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
From Strength To Strength--You'll Never Walk Alone
Chapter Ten
From Strength to Strength
Psalms 84: 7. “They go from strength to strength; each one appears before God in Tsiyon.”
You'll Never Walk Alone
(Part 1 of Four)
We pass through this valley called “Baca”. But, we are not alone. We have companions and friends that walk with us. And, we have a loving Messiah that commissioned us and said, “And, lo, I will be with you always, even to the end of the world”—“Never Alone”, as the old Gospel hymn says.
Because we have responded positively to YAH’s choosing, we have become “partakers of (His) divine nature” as Peter said in 1: 4 of his second letter. He says our acceptance of His choosing has affected our escape from “the corruption that is in the world thought lust”, (our own personal ideals).
Because of our faith in Messiah, we have embarked on a journey that is a blessed progression. “As iron sharpens iron”, we are tested on all sides by the “many” that never begin the trek, even by some of the “few” that choose to remain in their “simple faith”—but mostly sharpened by our comrades. As a sword or knife is carefully sharpened, we are gently and skillfully honed on the wheels of YAH’s loving care.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
From Strength to Strength
Psalms 84: 7. “They go from strength to strength; each one appears before God in Tsiyon.”
You'll Never Walk Alone
(Part 1 of Four)
We pass through this valley called “Baca”. But, we are not alone. We have companions and friends that walk with us. And, we have a loving Messiah that commissioned us and said, “And, lo, I will be with you always, even to the end of the world”—“Never Alone”, as the old Gospel hymn says.
Because we have responded positively to YAH’s choosing, we have become “partakers of (His) divine nature” as Peter said in 1: 4 of his second letter. He says our acceptance of His choosing has affected our escape from “the corruption that is in the world thought lust”, (our own personal ideals).
Because of our faith in Messiah, we have embarked on a journey that is a blessed progression. “As iron sharpens iron”, we are tested on all sides by the “many” that never begin the trek, even by some of the “few” that choose to remain in their “simple faith”—but mostly sharpened by our comrades. As a sword or knife is carefully sharpened, we are gently and skillfully honed on the wheels of YAH’s loving care.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Refreshing Lemonade--The Light of Baca's Valley
The Light of Baca's Valley
(Part 3 of Three)
In this trek through our “Valley of Baca”, there will be many people we meet, yet few that will assist, share our vision, or lighten our burden. Even so, we are commissioned by Yeshua our Messiah to share His life giving waters. For, it is through us, and out of our own need, He will bless His children.
If it weren’t for the ones that bear His blessed light those in need would be as Isaiah described in 41: 17. “The poor and needy seek water, but there is none, their tongues fail for thirst.” Our loving Lord hears their cries in the dark of their valley and will not forsake them.
Then, through His faithful remnant people He does as Isaiah continues in v. 18. “I will open rivers in desolate heights, and fountains in the midst of the valleys; I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water.”
The “Golden Rule” says, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. When seemingly mired in personal troubles, look for those around you with a similar or worse lot than yours. Then, extend the loving compassion of YAH’s hand through yours. And, together, all will mount the obstacles in the valley through the strength of many. In so loving our neighbor, we show love for Adonai. And, as Yeshua says, “All the law (Torah) and the prophets hang on these two”. Focus on this truth and be refreshingly encouraged!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
(Part 3 of Three)
In this trek through our “Valley of Baca”, there will be many people we meet, yet few that will assist, share our vision, or lighten our burden. Even so, we are commissioned by Yeshua our Messiah to share His life giving waters. For, it is through us, and out of our own need, He will bless His children.
If it weren’t for the ones that bear His blessed light those in need would be as Isaiah described in 41: 17. “The poor and needy seek water, but there is none, their tongues fail for thirst.” Our loving Lord hears their cries in the dark of their valley and will not forsake them.
Then, through His faithful remnant people He does as Isaiah continues in v. 18. “I will open rivers in desolate heights, and fountains in the midst of the valleys; I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water.”
The “Golden Rule” says, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. When seemingly mired in personal troubles, look for those around you with a similar or worse lot than yours. Then, extend the loving compassion of YAH’s hand through yours. And, together, all will mount the obstacles in the valley through the strength of many. In so loving our neighbor, we show love for Adonai. And, as Yeshua says, “All the law (Torah) and the prophets hang on these two”. Focus on this truth and be refreshingly encouraged!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Refreshing Lemonade--Proper Focus
Proper Focus
(Part 2 of Three)
Wrong focus can derail even the most God-fearing man or woman. In analogy, it could be equated to driving down the highway at 60-70 MPH and only looking out either side window at passing scenery. An exclusive use of this focus will end in disaster. Equally, only regarding spiritual enemies on our sides (circumstances) produces the wrong kind of fear, takes our eyes off our goals, and yields similar devastating results.
It is just as dangerous to constantly focus on the rear view mirror. It’s not where we’ve been that counts. It’s where we’re going that counts! Such actions can be equally deadly in a spiritual sense. When we regretfully focus on past failures or relish in past victories for too long, we run headlong into the next bump in the road. Effectively, we become the bump in the road, a stumbling block to all that follow behind.
Those with proper focus fully understand and affect in their lives the words of Paul to the Philippians in 3: 13-14. “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things that are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Yeshua the Messiah.”
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
(Part 2 of Three)
Wrong focus can derail even the most God-fearing man or woman. In analogy, it could be equated to driving down the highway at 60-70 MPH and only looking out either side window at passing scenery. An exclusive use of this focus will end in disaster. Equally, only regarding spiritual enemies on our sides (circumstances) produces the wrong kind of fear, takes our eyes off our goals, and yields similar devastating results.
It is just as dangerous to constantly focus on the rear view mirror. It’s not where we’ve been that counts. It’s where we’re going that counts! Such actions can be equally deadly in a spiritual sense. When we regretfully focus on past failures or relish in past victories for too long, we run headlong into the next bump in the road. Effectively, we become the bump in the road, a stumbling block to all that follow behind.
Those with proper focus fully understand and affect in their lives the words of Paul to the Philippians in 3: 13-14. “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things that are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Yeshua the Messiah.”
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Refreshing Lemonade--More Than Conquerors
Chapter Nine
Refreshing Lemonade
(Part 1 of Three)
Psalms 84: 6b. “…They make it a spring; the rain also covers it with pools.”
More Than Conquerors
When walking through our “Valley of Baca”, time spent there often seems an eternity. Whether we find our selves in “Baca” because of our enemy, because of personal choices, or through no fault of our own, our length of stay in this wilderness valley is extended of our own choice, or focus; we tend to focus on the problem rather than the solution. In any case, the human tendency is to murmur and complain rather than accept the trial as a new challenge, and fight to gain strength from it.
I’ve heard it said, “When life deals a lemon, make lemonade”. When we are dealt a lemon in life, the challenge is to make a big pitcher of lemonade and, in the Lord’s strength, throw a party. Then, it will be for us as David said in Psalms 23: 5, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies”—an oasis in the desert, a mountaintop within the valley.
When we walk through the valleys of life in our own strength, the challenges before us seem as mountains of themselves. Yet, when traversing these valleys in the strength of our mighty God, these challenges become mere foothills. With ease, we can step over these bumps in our road because we understand the words of Paul to the Romans in 8: 37, “Yet in all things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Refreshing Lemonade
(Part 1 of Three)
Psalms 84: 6b. “…They make it a spring; the rain also covers it with pools.”
More Than Conquerors
When walking through our “Valley of Baca”, time spent there often seems an eternity. Whether we find our selves in “Baca” because of our enemy, because of personal choices, or through no fault of our own, our length of stay in this wilderness valley is extended of our own choice, or focus; we tend to focus on the problem rather than the solution. In any case, the human tendency is to murmur and complain rather than accept the trial as a new challenge, and fight to gain strength from it.
I’ve heard it said, “When life deals a lemon, make lemonade”. When we are dealt a lemon in life, the challenge is to make a big pitcher of lemonade and, in the Lord’s strength, throw a party. Then, it will be for us as David said in Psalms 23: 5, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies”—an oasis in the desert, a mountaintop within the valley.
When we walk through the valleys of life in our own strength, the challenges before us seem as mountains of themselves. Yet, when traversing these valleys in the strength of our mighty God, these challenges become mere foothills. With ease, we can step over these bumps in our road because we understand the words of Paul to the Romans in 8: 37, “Yet in all things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Valley of Baca--Precious Recompense
Precious Recompense
(Part 3 of Three)
So, my friends walk through your “Valley of Baca” with a calm assurance. Our great God of the universe, Redeemer of Israel, walks by your side. No matter the trial, maintain a heart set on chasing after the Father. In everything you do, remember the words of David in Psalms 30: 4-5.
“Sing praise to the Lord, you saints of His, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name. For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”
Take heart my friends. That light at the end of the tunnel is not the five-o’clock freight. It’s the blessed, providence of His “ever-presence”. We know that light is His love shinning before us in this dark world because of these living testimonies. We also have the precious promise of a cessation of the seemingly endless cycle of valley to mountaintop to valley.
Isaiah says in 65: 17-19, “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth. And the former shall not be remembered or come to mind…for behold I create Jerusalem as a rejoicing, and her people a joy. I will rejoice in Jerusalem, the voice of weeping shall no longer be heard in her, nor the voice of crying”.
In progression from cradle to grave, our loving Messiah, Yeshua, promised through Isaiah in 61: 1-3 to send peace and healing to the poor and broken hearted. He proclaimed liberty to the captives and broke the chains of those bound in their own personal prisons.
He proclaimed His glory and promised vengeance on our enemies. He bestowed His blessed comfort and consolation on all those of His in their “Valley of Baca”. He gave “beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning”. He put upon our hearts the “garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness”. In all of this, He called us “trees of righteousness”, HIS planting and for HIS glory.
Then, our gracious and merciful Messiah spoke personally in John 16: 20 saying, “Most assuredly, I say to you that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; and you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy”.
Then, when all of the ups and downs of this life are over, He promised through the Revelator for the “sealed of Israel” in Revelation 7: 17, “For the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of waters. And God will wipe away all tears”.
Then, the Revelator said of the “Lamb of promise” in 21: 4, “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes, there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away”. In all of this, I enable you to be exponentially encouraged in His blessed, comforting peace (Shalom)!!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
(Part 3 of Three)
So, my friends walk through your “Valley of Baca” with a calm assurance. Our great God of the universe, Redeemer of Israel, walks by your side. No matter the trial, maintain a heart set on chasing after the Father. In everything you do, remember the words of David in Psalms 30: 4-5.
“Sing praise to the Lord, you saints of His, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name. For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”
Take heart my friends. That light at the end of the tunnel is not the five-o’clock freight. It’s the blessed, providence of His “ever-presence”. We know that light is His love shinning before us in this dark world because of these living testimonies. We also have the precious promise of a cessation of the seemingly endless cycle of valley to mountaintop to valley.
Isaiah says in 65: 17-19, “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth. And the former shall not be remembered or come to mind…for behold I create Jerusalem as a rejoicing, and her people a joy. I will rejoice in Jerusalem, the voice of weeping shall no longer be heard in her, nor the voice of crying”.
In progression from cradle to grave, our loving Messiah, Yeshua, promised through Isaiah in 61: 1-3 to send peace and healing to the poor and broken hearted. He proclaimed liberty to the captives and broke the chains of those bound in their own personal prisons.
He proclaimed His glory and promised vengeance on our enemies. He bestowed His blessed comfort and consolation on all those of His in their “Valley of Baca”. He gave “beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning”. He put upon our hearts the “garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness”. In all of this, He called us “trees of righteousness”, HIS planting and for HIS glory.
Then, our gracious and merciful Messiah spoke personally in John 16: 20 saying, “Most assuredly, I say to you that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; and you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy”.
Then, when all of the ups and downs of this life are over, He promised through the Revelator for the “sealed of Israel” in Revelation 7: 17, “For the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of waters. And God will wipe away all tears”.
Then, the Revelator said of the “Lamb of promise” in 21: 4, “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes, there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away”. In all of this, I enable you to be exponentially encouraged in His blessed, comforting peace (Shalom)!!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Valley of Baca--A Faithful Response
A Faithful Response
(Part 2 of Three)
As hard as it may seem, the words of Job in 19: 25-27 give us a guiding light and precious comfort, by way of praise.“For I know that my Redeemer lives, and He shall stand at last on the earth; and after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God. Whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!”
It is a faith exemplified by the Psalmist in 116: 5-8. “Gracious is the Lord, and righteous…return to your rest, O my soul, for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you. For You have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, and my feet from falling.”
It is a faith by way of praise offered by Hezekiah in Isaiah 38: 17. “Indeed it was for my own peace that I had great bitterness. But You have lovingly delivered my soul from the pit of corruption, for You have cast all my sins behind Your back.”
This king is an example for all that walk “the Valley of Baca”. Hezekiah continues in vv. 19-20, “The living, the living man, he shall praise You, as I do this day…the Lord was ready to save me; therefore we will sing my songs with stringed instruments all the days of our lives, in the house of the Lord”. His tears became tears of joy. And, he drew others into that joy with him. What a blessed magnetism!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
(Part 2 of Three)
As hard as it may seem, the words of Job in 19: 25-27 give us a guiding light and precious comfort, by way of praise.“For I know that my Redeemer lives, and He shall stand at last on the earth; and after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God. Whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!”
It is a faith exemplified by the Psalmist in 116: 5-8. “Gracious is the Lord, and righteous…return to your rest, O my soul, for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you. For You have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, and my feet from falling.”
It is a faith by way of praise offered by Hezekiah in Isaiah 38: 17. “Indeed it was for my own peace that I had great bitterness. But You have lovingly delivered my soul from the pit of corruption, for You have cast all my sins behind Your back.”
This king is an example for all that walk “the Valley of Baca”. Hezekiah continues in vv. 19-20, “The living, the living man, he shall praise You, as I do this day…the Lord was ready to save me; therefore we will sing my songs with stringed instruments all the days of our lives, in the house of the Lord”. His tears became tears of joy. And, he drew others into that joy with him. What a blessed magnetism!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Valley of Baca--Rivers of Sorrow
Chapter Eight
The Valley of Baca
Psalms 84: 6a. “…And they pass through the Valley of Baca
(Part 1 of Three)
Rivers of Sorrow
Because of the sting of sin, sorrow and tears are an integral part of our lives. And, sometimes this pain often reduces tears to a “Valley of Weeping”. In consideration of this literal meaning of “Baca”, Webster says “weep” means “to express emotion, especially sorrow by shedding of tears”. Synonyms of “bewail” and “cry” express the deep bitterness the Psalmists attempt to portray with the statement, “And they pass through the Valley of Baca”.
Yes, my friends, we are on a pilgrimage, a journey for our great God and precious Messiah. On that trek, we ascend to the highest of mountain peaks, and descend to the lowest of valleys. There is no avoiding it. A trip through our own personal “Baca” may include the loss or alienation of a friend, spouse, or family member. It may include the actual physical loss of the same—saying goodbye to them as they leave this world.
These travails of the heart can expand to the realm of personal physical health, or that of a loved one, and be inclusive of the words of David in Psalms 6: 2, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am weak; O Lord, heal me, for my bones are troubled. My soul is greatly troubled; but You, O Lord—how long?” And, yes, many times I ask as David. Lord, how long will you tarry? How long must I wait to see your deliverance?
Even more than the natural challenges of living in an imperfect world, we must face a host of opposition to the individual calling our Lord imparted to each of us. According to our varied circumstances, we could apply the words of David in Psalms 3: 2, “Many are they who rise up against me. Many are they who say of me, ‘There is no help in God’”.
Even with the momentary reprieve of mountain top experiences, the challenges we face are life-long. These challenges are inclusive of mind, body, and soul. These sorrows even extend to the spirit of man. And, who more than Job would be an example of such degradation?
In praying for his massive challenges, Job said in 17: 6-7, “But he has made me a byword of the people, and I have become one in whose face men spit. My eye has also grown dim because of sorrow, and all my members are like shadows”.
Even more personally disconcerting for sorrow’s sake is death itself. As Job most certainly felt the very presence of death, the Psalmist wrote in 116: 3, “The pains of death surrounded me, and the pangs of Sheol laid hold of me; I found trouble and sorrow”.
Even King Hezekiah felt the pangs of premature death. Isaiah records him saying in 38: 10, “I said, ‘in the prime of my life I shall go to the gates of Sheol; I am deprived of the remainder of my years’”. And, so, his lament continued through v. 20.
Yes, my friends, these things can’t be avoided. From cradle to grave, we must endure together, the glorious mountain top and the humbling valley. We must traverse the paths set before us in faith.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
The Valley of Baca
Psalms 84: 6a. “…And they pass through the Valley of Baca
(Part 1 of Three)
Rivers of Sorrow
Because of the sting of sin, sorrow and tears are an integral part of our lives. And, sometimes this pain often reduces tears to a “Valley of Weeping”. In consideration of this literal meaning of “Baca”, Webster says “weep” means “to express emotion, especially sorrow by shedding of tears”. Synonyms of “bewail” and “cry” express the deep bitterness the Psalmists attempt to portray with the statement, “And they pass through the Valley of Baca”.
Yes, my friends, we are on a pilgrimage, a journey for our great God and precious Messiah. On that trek, we ascend to the highest of mountain peaks, and descend to the lowest of valleys. There is no avoiding it. A trip through our own personal “Baca” may include the loss or alienation of a friend, spouse, or family member. It may include the actual physical loss of the same—saying goodbye to them as they leave this world.
These travails of the heart can expand to the realm of personal physical health, or that of a loved one, and be inclusive of the words of David in Psalms 6: 2, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am weak; O Lord, heal me, for my bones are troubled. My soul is greatly troubled; but You, O Lord—how long?” And, yes, many times I ask as David. Lord, how long will you tarry? How long must I wait to see your deliverance?
Even more than the natural challenges of living in an imperfect world, we must face a host of opposition to the individual calling our Lord imparted to each of us. According to our varied circumstances, we could apply the words of David in Psalms 3: 2, “Many are they who rise up against me. Many are they who say of me, ‘There is no help in God’”.
Even with the momentary reprieve of mountain top experiences, the challenges we face are life-long. These challenges are inclusive of mind, body, and soul. These sorrows even extend to the spirit of man. And, who more than Job would be an example of such degradation?
In praying for his massive challenges, Job said in 17: 6-7, “But he has made me a byword of the people, and I have become one in whose face men spit. My eye has also grown dim because of sorrow, and all my members are like shadows”.
Even more personally disconcerting for sorrow’s sake is death itself. As Job most certainly felt the very presence of death, the Psalmist wrote in 116: 3, “The pains of death surrounded me, and the pangs of Sheol laid hold of me; I found trouble and sorrow”.
Even King Hezekiah felt the pangs of premature death. Isaiah records him saying in 38: 10, “I said, ‘in the prime of my life I shall go to the gates of Sheol; I am deprived of the remainder of my years’”. And, so, his lament continued through v. 20.
Yes, my friends, these things can’t be avoided. From cradle to grave, we must endure together, the glorious mountain top and the humbling valley. We must traverse the paths set before us in faith.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
A Matter of the Heart
Chapter Seven
A Matter of the Heart
Psalms 84: 5b. “…whose heart is set on pilgrimage.” NKJV
“…in whose heart are the ways of them”. KJV
Chasing after YAH is a matter of personal desire. It is a matter of heart. Leaning to divine understanding rather than finite human wisdom can only be achieved with a heart that truly sets aside its own wisdom and inclines to the heart of the Father, as David did. In having a Godly “heart set”, we take the very center of our being—feelings, will, and intellect—and focus all on learning the ways of our Lord.
In consideration of this center of being, Yeshua said through Matthew in 22: 37, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” Yahweh said through Moses in Deuteronomy 6: 5, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might”.
Mark writes in 12: 29-30, “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength”. Then, Mark records the Scribe in v. 32 as saying, “And to love Him with all the heart, and with all the soul, and with all understanding, and with all strength…”
In the order they are used, consider each word used by the respective writers. For “heart”, Moses used the word, “lebab”, which suggests courage and understanding. Matthew, Mark, and the Scribe used the Greek word, “kardia”, which suggests one’s thoughts and feelings.
For “soul”, Moses used the word, “nephesh”, which suggests vitality and desire. It further suggests an all-consuming desire, even lustful, to achieve a certain goal. Matthew and Mark use “psuche”. On one hand, this word could refer to the immortal soul, but, in this case, is in direct agreement with the Hebrew word Moses used. It bears the meaning of “vitality, even as the vitality of plants”.
For “might”, Moses uses the word, “me’od”, which suggests vehement diligence. For “mind”, Matthew uses the word, “dianoia”. This word suggests deep thought in the use of the faculty of mind or disposition, and could not come about without meditating on the Word, as David did “day and night”.
According to Mark, Yeshua and the Scribe used the word, “ischus”, for “strength”. This word suggests forcefulness and power—or strength. It might be interesting to note that the Scribe added the word, “sunesis”, for “understanding”. This word suggests the use of the intellect, a putting together, which would appear to preclude one from using forcefulness without thinking about the ramifications of their actions—they put their mind in gear before they engage the power of their mouth, if you will.
The meanings above suggest the daily regimen of a finely tuned athlete, or anyone else striving to perform at a higher level, stretching themselves a little further each day, pressing steadfastly toward a goal, neither moving or looking to the left or right, totally focused on the task at hand. Each day they persist and extend themselves further than they or anyone else might think possible. Both the Hebrew and Greek words used work hand in hand to describe the person Yeshua and the Psalmists are telling us to be.
It might be interesting to note the word usage at the conclusion of each text phrase. The KJV reads, “…are the ways of them”, while the NKJV reads “is set on pilgrimage”. The Psalmists use “m’cilla”. Literally or figuratively, it means “a thoroughfare (as turnpiked)”. Specifically, it is “a viaduct or staircase, a path or highway.” It is derived from “caial”, which means, “to mound up (esp. as a turnpike)—to oppose (as by dam).”
We have been chosen to embark upon a journey for our Messiah with an ultimate destination of eternal joy. With hearts completely focused upon divine direction, we traverse a turnpike with limited exits to divert our attention from our journey. Also, fewer entrances mean less interference from evil intenders. We are built up on all sides so as to more easily oppose forces of darkness we encounter on the way. Our path is as a staircase, ever climbing higher on our journey.
It is as the Apostle Paul said of himself in 3: 14-15 of Philippians. “I press toward the goal for the prize of the high calling of God in Yeshua the Messiah. Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind…” Love Yahweh Messiah with every fiber of existence and diligently seek to learn of Him. This is the only path to true freedom—a pilgrimage teeming with immense encouragement.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
A Matter of the Heart
Psalms 84: 5b. “…whose heart is set on pilgrimage.” NKJV
“…in whose heart are the ways of them”. KJV
Chasing after YAH is a matter of personal desire. It is a matter of heart. Leaning to divine understanding rather than finite human wisdom can only be achieved with a heart that truly sets aside its own wisdom and inclines to the heart of the Father, as David did. In having a Godly “heart set”, we take the very center of our being—feelings, will, and intellect—and focus all on learning the ways of our Lord.
In consideration of this center of being, Yeshua said through Matthew in 22: 37, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” Yahweh said through Moses in Deuteronomy 6: 5, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might”.
Mark writes in 12: 29-30, “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength”. Then, Mark records the Scribe in v. 32 as saying, “And to love Him with all the heart, and with all the soul, and with all understanding, and with all strength…”
In the order they are used, consider each word used by the respective writers. For “heart”, Moses used the word, “lebab”, which suggests courage and understanding. Matthew, Mark, and the Scribe used the Greek word, “kardia”, which suggests one’s thoughts and feelings.
For “soul”, Moses used the word, “nephesh”, which suggests vitality and desire. It further suggests an all-consuming desire, even lustful, to achieve a certain goal. Matthew and Mark use “psuche”. On one hand, this word could refer to the immortal soul, but, in this case, is in direct agreement with the Hebrew word Moses used. It bears the meaning of “vitality, even as the vitality of plants”.
For “might”, Moses uses the word, “me’od”, which suggests vehement diligence. For “mind”, Matthew uses the word, “dianoia”. This word suggests deep thought in the use of the faculty of mind or disposition, and could not come about without meditating on the Word, as David did “day and night”.
According to Mark, Yeshua and the Scribe used the word, “ischus”, for “strength”. This word suggests forcefulness and power—or strength. It might be interesting to note that the Scribe added the word, “sunesis”, for “understanding”. This word suggests the use of the intellect, a putting together, which would appear to preclude one from using forcefulness without thinking about the ramifications of their actions—they put their mind in gear before they engage the power of their mouth, if you will.
The meanings above suggest the daily regimen of a finely tuned athlete, or anyone else striving to perform at a higher level, stretching themselves a little further each day, pressing steadfastly toward a goal, neither moving or looking to the left or right, totally focused on the task at hand. Each day they persist and extend themselves further than they or anyone else might think possible. Both the Hebrew and Greek words used work hand in hand to describe the person Yeshua and the Psalmists are telling us to be.
It might be interesting to note the word usage at the conclusion of each text phrase. The KJV reads, “…are the ways of them”, while the NKJV reads “is set on pilgrimage”. The Psalmists use “m’cilla”. Literally or figuratively, it means “a thoroughfare (as turnpiked)”. Specifically, it is “a viaduct or staircase, a path or highway.” It is derived from “caial”, which means, “to mound up (esp. as a turnpike)—to oppose (as by dam).”
We have been chosen to embark upon a journey for our Messiah with an ultimate destination of eternal joy. With hearts completely focused upon divine direction, we traverse a turnpike with limited exits to divert our attention from our journey. Also, fewer entrances mean less interference from evil intenders. We are built up on all sides so as to more easily oppose forces of darkness we encounter on the way. Our path is as a staircase, ever climbing higher on our journey.
It is as the Apostle Paul said of himself in 3: 14-15 of Philippians. “I press toward the goal for the prize of the high calling of God in Yeshua the Messiah. Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind…” Love Yahweh Messiah with every fiber of existence and diligently seek to learn of Him. This is the only path to true freedom—a pilgrimage teeming with immense encouragement.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Overcomer's Reward
Overcomer's Reward
(Part 3 of Three)
Blessings of YAH’s strength are for those that overcome on a daily basis. The first step for the over-comer is depicted by the writer of 1 John in 5: 5. He asks and answers his own question, “Who is he that overcomes the world, but he who believes that Yeshua is the Son of God?” In v. 4, he defines the basis of that belief. “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith”.
Those that overcome in YAH’s strength bear the special privilege described by John the Revelator in 2: 7. “To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.” He says in v. 11, “He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death”. He says in v. 17, “To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it”. Then, in v. 26, he says, “And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations”.
The Revelator says in 3: 5, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels”. In v. 12, he says, “He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God.” In v. 21, he says, “To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.”
And, finally, the Revelator writes in 21: 7, “He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son”. He that has an ear let him hear what the Spirit says to His chosen people. Yahweh, God of Israel, I will lift up my eyes to the hills, from whence comes my Salvation—and be miraculously encouraged in Him!!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
(Part 3 of Three)
Blessings of YAH’s strength are for those that overcome on a daily basis. The first step for the over-comer is depicted by the writer of 1 John in 5: 5. He asks and answers his own question, “Who is he that overcomes the world, but he who believes that Yeshua is the Son of God?” In v. 4, he defines the basis of that belief. “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith”.
Those that overcome in YAH’s strength bear the special privilege described by John the Revelator in 2: 7. “To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.” He says in v. 11, “He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death”. He says in v. 17, “To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it”. Then, in v. 26, he says, “And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations”.
The Revelator says in 3: 5, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels”. In v. 12, he says, “He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God.” In v. 21, he says, “To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.”
And, finally, the Revelator writes in 21: 7, “He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son”. He that has an ear let him hear what the Spirit says to His chosen people. Yahweh, God of Israel, I will lift up my eyes to the hills, from whence comes my Salvation—and be miraculously encouraged in Him!!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Reason For The Blessing
Reason For the Blessing
(Part 2 of Three)
One the other hand, those that seek after and receive His strength are blessed indeed. David sings in 21: 1 of the Psalms, “The king shall have joy in your strength, O Lord. And in Your salvation how greatly he shall rejoice! You have given him his heart’s desire, and have not withheld the request of his lips”.
There is a reason why YAH gave His shepherd king “his heart’s desire”. It is a reason that was the life blood of the man after the heart of YAH. His heart was circumcised; it was soft and pliable, as his words depict in Psalms 37: 4. “Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” David’s obedience and allegiance to YAH made him usable in the hand of the Potter, and caused his desires to become YAH’s desires.
“Owz” (strength) is derived from “azaz” which means “to be stout, harden, impudent, to prevail, strengthen (self), or be strong”. In speaking to the Romans in 4: 20 concerning the strong faith of Abraham, Paul said, “He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God.” In closing comments of his first letter to the Corinthians in 16: 13 Paul says, “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.”
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
(Part 2 of Three)
One the other hand, those that seek after and receive His strength are blessed indeed. David sings in 21: 1 of the Psalms, “The king shall have joy in your strength, O Lord. And in Your salvation how greatly he shall rejoice! You have given him his heart’s desire, and have not withheld the request of his lips”.
There is a reason why YAH gave His shepherd king “his heart’s desire”. It is a reason that was the life blood of the man after the heart of YAH. His heart was circumcised; it was soft and pliable, as his words depict in Psalms 37: 4. “Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” David’s obedience and allegiance to YAH made him usable in the hand of the Potter, and caused his desires to become YAH’s desires.
“Owz” (strength) is derived from “azaz” which means “to be stout, harden, impudent, to prevail, strengthen (self), or be strong”. In speaking to the Romans in 4: 20 concerning the strong faith of Abraham, Paul said, “He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God.” In closing comments of his first letter to the Corinthians in 16: 13 Paul says, “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.”
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Strength In The Lord
Section Three
Blessed Preservation
Chapter Six
Strength in the Lord
(First of Three Parts)
Psalms 84: 5a. “Blessed is the man whose strength is in You…”
Within the utterance of this statement, the Psalmists use “owz” to describe “strength”. It carries a meaning of “force, security, majesty, and praise.” It is a definition characterized in “boldness, might, and power”. In this part, I will discuss the concept that YAH is our strength, His charge to seek that strength, the demise of the arrogant, and the benefits of obedience.
Moses sings in Exodus 15: 2, “The Lord is my strength and song; and He has become my salvation”. David expresses similarly in 1 Chronicles 16: 27. “Honor and majesty are before Him; strength and gladness are in His place.” Even Job weighs in on the subject in 12: 2. “With Him is strength and prudence. The deceived and the deceiver are His.”
It is the wise that recognize and praise YAH for His awesome majesty. It is even wiser to seek that strength, even pine for it and chase after it. It is our shepherd king David that speaks wisely in 1 Chronicles 16: 11. “Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face evermore.” David led by example. He sang in Psalms 27: 4, “One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life”. To dwell in His presence is to abide in His strength.
Yet, there are those that fail to heed the admonition of Proverbs 3: 5-6. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” They blindly go on, not realizing the demise of their choice. Proverbs 14: 12 says, “There is a way that seems right unto a man, but the ends thereof are the ways of death”.
In their own arrogance, they lean to the strength of their ways and ideals. They even justify their delusion when they equate YAH’s pleasure to their adapting to the ways and ideals of the culture and society with which they live. Such arrogance led YAH’s own children to captivity and personal destruction.
YAH spoke of these through Ezekiel in 24: 21. “Behold I will profane my sanctuary, your arrogant boast, the desire of your eyes, the delight of your soul; and your sons and daughters whom you left behind shall fall by the sword.” The prophet also says in 33: 28, “For I will make the land most desolate, her arrogant strength shall cease, and the mountains of Israel shall be so desolate that no one will pass through”. And Amos says in 3: 11, “An adversary shall be all around the land; He shall sap your strength from you, and your palaces will be plundered”.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Blessed Preservation
Chapter Six
Strength in the Lord
(First of Three Parts)
Psalms 84: 5a. “Blessed is the man whose strength is in You…”
Within the utterance of this statement, the Psalmists use “owz” to describe “strength”. It carries a meaning of “force, security, majesty, and praise.” It is a definition characterized in “boldness, might, and power”. In this part, I will discuss the concept that YAH is our strength, His charge to seek that strength, the demise of the arrogant, and the benefits of obedience.
Moses sings in Exodus 15: 2, “The Lord is my strength and song; and He has become my salvation”. David expresses similarly in 1 Chronicles 16: 27. “Honor and majesty are before Him; strength and gladness are in His place.” Even Job weighs in on the subject in 12: 2. “With Him is strength and prudence. The deceived and the deceiver are His.”
It is the wise that recognize and praise YAH for His awesome majesty. It is even wiser to seek that strength, even pine for it and chase after it. It is our shepherd king David that speaks wisely in 1 Chronicles 16: 11. “Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face evermore.” David led by example. He sang in Psalms 27: 4, “One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life”. To dwell in His presence is to abide in His strength.
Yet, there are those that fail to heed the admonition of Proverbs 3: 5-6. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” They blindly go on, not realizing the demise of their choice. Proverbs 14: 12 says, “There is a way that seems right unto a man, but the ends thereof are the ways of death”.
In their own arrogance, they lean to the strength of their ways and ideals. They even justify their delusion when they equate YAH’s pleasure to their adapting to the ways and ideals of the culture and society with which they live. Such arrogance led YAH’s own children to captivity and personal destruction.
YAH spoke of these through Ezekiel in 24: 21. “Behold I will profane my sanctuary, your arrogant boast, the desire of your eyes, the delight of your soul; and your sons and daughters whom you left behind shall fall by the sword.” The prophet also says in 33: 28, “For I will make the land most desolate, her arrogant strength shall cease, and the mountains of Israel shall be so desolate that no one will pass through”. And Amos says in 3: 11, “An adversary shall be all around the land; He shall sap your strength from you, and your palaces will be plundered”.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Still Praising Him
Chapter Five
Still Praising Him
Psalms 84: 4b. “They will still be praising You.”
When clouds fill the skies of our lives, praise to the Holy One of Israel is a sure way to make null and void their effect upon our lives. It is as the Psalmist wrote in 149: 6, “Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in their hand.” Even when our skies are bright, the gratitude of praise makes for more sustained sunshine. For, it is David that said in 108: 1, “O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and give praise, even with my glory”.
For “praising” the Psalmists use “halal”. Although it has a wide use in things or persons to be praised, the most common is praise for Yahweh. It is a verb that caries with it a charge, as something good and wise to do.
In Psalms 147: 1, the Psalmist writes, “Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and praise is beautiful.” And, In a Sabbath day song, 92: 1 says, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High…”
Praise is not just for the goodness within itself, but for the goodness of the One being praised. The Psalmist writes in 135: 3-4, “Praise the Lord for the Lord is good; sing praises to His name for it is pleasant. For the Lord has chosen Jacob for Himself, Israel of His special treasure.” We sing praises for who He is, as the Psalmists say 47: 6-7. “Sing praises to our God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises! For He is King of all the earth…”
Then, there is a responsibility for our praise. According to the meaning of “halal”, our praise should “shine” or “give light”. David sings in 9: 11, “Sing praises to the Lord, who dwells in Zion! Declare His deeds among the people.” And, most importantly, David sings in 78: 4 in consideration of our posterity. “We will not hide them from their children, telling to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and His strength and His wonderful works that He has done.”
“Halal” also supposes one that is “clamorously foolish” with their praise. It’s the same as spontaneous reaction for a home run at the ball park, or a touchdown at the football stadium. With that same exuberance, we should offer up praise for the mighty and wondrous deeds of Yahweh of Israel. Be a “Fan-atic”! David gives this same advice in 68: 3-4. “Let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God; Yes, let them rejoice exceedingly. Sing to God, sing praises to His name; extol Him who rides on the clouds, by His name YAH, and rejoice before Him.”
Then, David tops this off with a beautiful statement in Psalms 22: 3. “But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.” He dwells in the praises of His people. He is drawn like a magnet to the praises of His faithful. More importantly, He is as Nelson records in his NKJV. “But You are holy, enthroned in the praises of Israel”. Yes, He is my Captain—the King of my life.
The concept of praise is very important in deed. Yet, there is a little word in this phrase of the Psalmists that carries far more weight than the very concept of praise itself. It deals with consistency. It deals with repetition. Regardless of the circumstances, even if the last thing we want to do is praise, praise must be in our heart and on our lips.
The phrase says, “…they will STILL be praising You.” It is the word, “owd”, which means, “continuing repetitiously again and again, over and over, all life long”. No matter what may come our way, there is only one constant in the universe—the Creator of that universe. Continuously praise His majestic name, and be gloriously encouraged!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Still Praising Him
Psalms 84: 4b. “They will still be praising You.”
When clouds fill the skies of our lives, praise to the Holy One of Israel is a sure way to make null and void their effect upon our lives. It is as the Psalmist wrote in 149: 6, “Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in their hand.” Even when our skies are bright, the gratitude of praise makes for more sustained sunshine. For, it is David that said in 108: 1, “O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and give praise, even with my glory”.
For “praising” the Psalmists use “halal”. Although it has a wide use in things or persons to be praised, the most common is praise for Yahweh. It is a verb that caries with it a charge, as something good and wise to do.
In Psalms 147: 1, the Psalmist writes, “Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and praise is beautiful.” And, In a Sabbath day song, 92: 1 says, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High…”
Praise is not just for the goodness within itself, but for the goodness of the One being praised. The Psalmist writes in 135: 3-4, “Praise the Lord for the Lord is good; sing praises to His name for it is pleasant. For the Lord has chosen Jacob for Himself, Israel of His special treasure.” We sing praises for who He is, as the Psalmists say 47: 6-7. “Sing praises to our God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises! For He is King of all the earth…”
Then, there is a responsibility for our praise. According to the meaning of “halal”, our praise should “shine” or “give light”. David sings in 9: 11, “Sing praises to the Lord, who dwells in Zion! Declare His deeds among the people.” And, most importantly, David sings in 78: 4 in consideration of our posterity. “We will not hide them from their children, telling to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and His strength and His wonderful works that He has done.”
“Halal” also supposes one that is “clamorously foolish” with their praise. It’s the same as spontaneous reaction for a home run at the ball park, or a touchdown at the football stadium. With that same exuberance, we should offer up praise for the mighty and wondrous deeds of Yahweh of Israel. Be a “Fan-atic”! David gives this same advice in 68: 3-4. “Let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God; Yes, let them rejoice exceedingly. Sing to God, sing praises to His name; extol Him who rides on the clouds, by His name YAH, and rejoice before Him.”
Then, David tops this off with a beautiful statement in Psalms 22: 3. “But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.” He dwells in the praises of His people. He is drawn like a magnet to the praises of His faithful. More importantly, He is as Nelson records in his NKJV. “But You are holy, enthroned in the praises of Israel”. Yes, He is my Captain—the King of my life.
The concept of praise is very important in deed. Yet, there is a little word in this phrase of the Psalmists that carries far more weight than the very concept of praise itself. It deals with consistency. It deals with repetition. Regardless of the circumstances, even if the last thing we want to do is praise, praise must be in our heart and on our lips.
The phrase says, “…they will STILL be praising You.” It is the word, “owd”, which means, “continuing repetitiously again and again, over and over, all life long”. No matter what may come our way, there is only one constant in the universe—the Creator of that universe. Continuously praise His majestic name, and be gloriously encouraged!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Blessing of Dwelling in His House
Chapter Four
Blessing of Dwelling in His House
Psalms 84: 4a. “Blessed are those who dwell in Your house...”
Truly we are blessed by His presence. There is a specific element of blessing within the opening words of this verse, and refers to the words of David’s song in 65: 4. “Blessed is the man You choose, and cause to approach You, that he may dwell in Your courts.”
As with the Psalmists in the 84th, David uses “esher”, which means “happiness or blessedness”. By interjection, it means, “Oh, the great happiness of”. Similar language with the same usage is found in Psalms 33: 2. “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.”
In 4: 3 of David’s song we see a classifying of those He chooses. “But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself him who is Godly…” For His own glory, He seeks those with a genuine heart after the Father. In the same “blessed” language, the Psalmist writes in 1: 1-2, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law (Torah) of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.”
In a passage where John records Yeshua referring to His chosen as “friends”, 15: 16 records Him saying, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain…”
As opposed to the mighty, noble, and wise according to the flesh, Paul tells the Corinthians in 1: 27-28 of the first letter, “But God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen…”
Paul tells the Ephesians in reference to “blessings in heavenly places”, in 1: 4, “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love…” And, James reasons in 2: 5, “Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promise to those who love Him?”
Peter writes of Messiah in 2: 4 of the first epistle, “Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected in deed by men, but chosen by God and precious…” Then, he includes us with Yeshua in v. 5. “You also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Yeshua, the Messiah…”
In v. 9, Peter says we are “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that (we) may proclaim the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light.”
The promised victory of the “chosen” is found in Revelation 17: 14. “These (the wicked) will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called chosen and faithful.”
In all of this, we are as David finishes 65: 4, “…satisfied with the goodness of Your house, of Your holy temple”. For “satisfied”, David chooses “sabea”, which means “sufficient”. Yet, in the depth of definition, and the “bigness” of His goodness, we are more than just filled. We don’t have just enough to suffice. We have plenty. We are filled to satisfaction. We are satiated. We are as David sings in Psalms 23: 5, “(Our) cup runs over”. What a blessed encouragement!!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Blessing of Dwelling in His House
Psalms 84: 4a. “Blessed are those who dwell in Your house...”
Truly we are blessed by His presence. There is a specific element of blessing within the opening words of this verse, and refers to the words of David’s song in 65: 4. “Blessed is the man You choose, and cause to approach You, that he may dwell in Your courts.”
As with the Psalmists in the 84th, David uses “esher”, which means “happiness or blessedness”. By interjection, it means, “Oh, the great happiness of”. Similar language with the same usage is found in Psalms 33: 2. “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.”
In 4: 3 of David’s song we see a classifying of those He chooses. “But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself him who is Godly…” For His own glory, He seeks those with a genuine heart after the Father. In the same “blessed” language, the Psalmist writes in 1: 1-2, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law (Torah) of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.”
In a passage where John records Yeshua referring to His chosen as “friends”, 15: 16 records Him saying, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain…”
As opposed to the mighty, noble, and wise according to the flesh, Paul tells the Corinthians in 1: 27-28 of the first letter, “But God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen…”
Paul tells the Ephesians in reference to “blessings in heavenly places”, in 1: 4, “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love…” And, James reasons in 2: 5, “Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promise to those who love Him?”
Peter writes of Messiah in 2: 4 of the first epistle, “Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected in deed by men, but chosen by God and precious…” Then, he includes us with Yeshua in v. 5. “You also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Yeshua, the Messiah…”
In v. 9, Peter says we are “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that (we) may proclaim the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light.”
The promised victory of the “chosen” is found in Revelation 17: 14. “These (the wicked) will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called chosen and faithful.”
In all of this, we are as David finishes 65: 4, “…satisfied with the goodness of Your house, of Your holy temple”. For “satisfied”, David chooses “sabea”, which means “sufficient”. Yet, in the depth of definition, and the “bigness” of His goodness, we are more than just filled. We don’t have just enough to suffice. We have plenty. We are filled to satisfaction. We are satiated. We are as David sings in Psalms 23: 5, “(Our) cup runs over”. What a blessed encouragement!!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
The Sparrow and Swallow
Section Two
The Blessed Dwelling Place
Chapter Three
The Sparrow and Swallow
Psalms 84: 3. “Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young—even Your altars, O Lord of hosts, My King and my God."
As dawn breaks over the little valley garden, a gentle breeze courses through the trees and across my face. With the refreshing smell of pine in the air and melodious sounds of birds greeting the new born day with song, I sense the presence of Yahweh, El Shaddai, as He walks in the morning mist.
As darkness slowly fades in favor of morning light, flora awaken. Clothed in colors of the rainbow, their aura reminds me of the sweet aroma of the Lord’s presence. As the first rays of morning light cast their life giving beams over a protective mountain peak, the garden teems with the vibrant presence of the Lord.
As the flora rise up, turn their faces toward the morning light, and bow their heads to drink in the blessings of each ray, I humbly bow before the altar of YAH’s presence and cry out in my soul, “O Lord of hosts, my King and my God”.
This actual experience has stood in my memory for over forty years, to ever remind me of the gentle presence of my Friend and His loving kindness. As I walk through this life, I realize I am but a wayfaring stranger. My home is not of this world. But, in the radiant presence of Yahweh, Shalom, I am very much at home within His beautiful courts such as this one. And, when it comes my time, I will walk forever at His side. Then and there, unabated, I will drink the pure beauty of His presence.
As the Psalmists say in these few words, the birds of the air have found a home within the courts of their Maker. They have built nests, even to the altars, and there joyfully raise their young. They come and go with unabated freedom. The joy of the Psalmists as seen in their eloquently written hearts desire to be in the presence of YAH is obvious. I challenge each of us to do the same. Take time out of a busy routine and fly as the sparrow and swallow into the glorious presence of our God. Then, be marvelously encouraged!!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
The Blessed Dwelling Place
Chapter Three
The Sparrow and Swallow
Psalms 84: 3. “Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young—even Your altars, O Lord of hosts, My King and my God."
As dawn breaks over the little valley garden, a gentle breeze courses through the trees and across my face. With the refreshing smell of pine in the air and melodious sounds of birds greeting the new born day with song, I sense the presence of Yahweh, El Shaddai, as He walks in the morning mist.
As darkness slowly fades in favor of morning light, flora awaken. Clothed in colors of the rainbow, their aura reminds me of the sweet aroma of the Lord’s presence. As the first rays of morning light cast their life giving beams over a protective mountain peak, the garden teems with the vibrant presence of the Lord.
As the flora rise up, turn their faces toward the morning light, and bow their heads to drink in the blessings of each ray, I humbly bow before the altar of YAH’s presence and cry out in my soul, “O Lord of hosts, my King and my God”.
This actual experience has stood in my memory for over forty years, to ever remind me of the gentle presence of my Friend and His loving kindness. As I walk through this life, I realize I am but a wayfaring stranger. My home is not of this world. But, in the radiant presence of Yahweh, Shalom, I am very much at home within His beautiful courts such as this one. And, when it comes my time, I will walk forever at His side. Then and there, unabated, I will drink the pure beauty of His presence.
As the Psalmists say in these few words, the birds of the air have found a home within the courts of their Maker. They have built nests, even to the altars, and there joyfully raise their young. They come and go with unabated freedom. The joy of the Psalmists as seen in their eloquently written hearts desire to be in the presence of YAH is obvious. I challenge each of us to do the same. Take time out of a busy routine and fly as the sparrow and swallow into the glorious presence of our God. Then, be marvelously encouraged!!
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Desire For His Presence
Chapter Two
Desire For His presence
Psalms 84: 2. “My soul longs, yea, even faints for the courts of the Lord: my heart and my flesh cries out for the living God.”
When one goes without food for too long, a degree of weakness usually sets in. This is the beginning of meaning the Psalmists suggest in “longing” for the Master’s table. They use “kacaph” to portray one growing “pale”. They portray one that “pines after” His table, even to a deep desire. They just seem to never get enough of the goodness of His presence.
Whether it’s a perceived lack of food from the Master’s table, or just a seemingly insatiable desire for the “meat” of His Word, the necessary progression flows to the next level. The Psalmists now say, “yea, even fainteth”. They use “kalah” to convey the severity or urgency of the matter. If they can’t feed on His goodness, everything will come to an end. They will cease to exist. Even with proper preparation, they are incomplete and consumed within their spirit.
This is the gravity under which the Psalmists desire the presence of their Lord. Yet, there is only a hint of doom in the meaning they lay before us. They say their “heart and flesh cry out…” Here, the Psalmists use “ranan”. Even though the prime root word has a slightly negative connotation in “to creak in a harsh or shrill sound”, it carries a significant message of faith, hope, and triumphant praise, especially in a meaning very close to my heart. It means “to sing or cause to sing aloud”. No matter the depth of despair, many times a mere song can lift the human spirit—precious communion with their Lord, within the protective confines of “His courts”.
In closing this part, I am reminded of a popular song, “As The Deer”. I leave the reader with words from the same Psalmists, in the 42nd, that inspired that beautiful tune.
1.“As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God.
2.My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?
3.My tears have been my food day and night, while they continually say to me, where is your God?
4.When I remember these things, I pour out my soul within me. For I used to go with the multitude; I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept a pilgrim feast.
5.Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance.
6.O my God, my soul is cast down within me; therefore I will remember You from the land of the Jordan, and from the heights of Hermon, from the Hill Mizar.
7.Deep calls unto deep at the noise of Your waterfalls; all your waves and billows have gone over me.
8.The Lord will command His loving kindness in the daytime, and in the night His song shall be with me—a prayer to the God of my life.”
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Desire For His presence
Psalms 84: 2. “My soul longs, yea, even faints for the courts of the Lord: my heart and my flesh cries out for the living God.”
When one goes without food for too long, a degree of weakness usually sets in. This is the beginning of meaning the Psalmists suggest in “longing” for the Master’s table. They use “kacaph” to portray one growing “pale”. They portray one that “pines after” His table, even to a deep desire. They just seem to never get enough of the goodness of His presence.
Whether it’s a perceived lack of food from the Master’s table, or just a seemingly insatiable desire for the “meat” of His Word, the necessary progression flows to the next level. The Psalmists now say, “yea, even fainteth”. They use “kalah” to convey the severity or urgency of the matter. If they can’t feed on His goodness, everything will come to an end. They will cease to exist. Even with proper preparation, they are incomplete and consumed within their spirit.
This is the gravity under which the Psalmists desire the presence of their Lord. Yet, there is only a hint of doom in the meaning they lay before us. They say their “heart and flesh cry out…” Here, the Psalmists use “ranan”. Even though the prime root word has a slightly negative connotation in “to creak in a harsh or shrill sound”, it carries a significant message of faith, hope, and triumphant praise, especially in a meaning very close to my heart. It means “to sing or cause to sing aloud”. No matter the depth of despair, many times a mere song can lift the human spirit—precious communion with their Lord, within the protective confines of “His courts”.
In closing this part, I am reminded of a popular song, “As The Deer”. I leave the reader with words from the same Psalmists, in the 42nd, that inspired that beautiful tune.
1.“As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God.
2.My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?
3.My tears have been my food day and night, while they continually say to me, where is your God?
4.When I remember these things, I pour out my soul within me. For I used to go with the multitude; I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept a pilgrim feast.
5.Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance.
6.O my God, my soul is cast down within me; therefore I will remember You from the land of the Jordan, and from the heights of Hermon, from the Hill Mizar.
7.Deep calls unto deep at the noise of Your waterfalls; all your waves and billows have gone over me.
8.The Lord will command His loving kindness in the daytime, and in the night His song shall be with me—a prayer to the God of my life.”
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
The Beauty of His Presence
The Presence of Yahweh
Chapter One
The Beauty of His Presence
Psalms 84: 1: “How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts!
For “tabernacles”, the Psalmists used “mishkan”. From tents to Solomon’s Temple, the Spirit of the Living God there within dwelt in all His majesty and greatness. From His holy habitation proceeded justice and mercy for those that came into His presence and called upon His name.
Divine blessing immersed His faithful, while judgment fell accordingly on all those too mired in the cares of life to see value in YAH’s presence. Yet, for the faithful, they saw a value worth far more than silver or gold, rubies or diamonds. They realized the most beautiful and valuable gem was pale in comparison to YAH’s presence.
For “amiable”, the Psalmists used “y’diyd”. Nelson’s NKJV renders this word as “lovely”. Webster defines the word as “an agreeable, friendly and sociable attitude”. It is an amiable loveliness that is as big as the heart of YAH Himself. And, He pours out accordingly on those that seek Him in His temple.
In consideration of a “pouring out”, these Psalmists also sang in 46: 4-5, “There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High. God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God will help her, just at the break of day.”
When we seek the face of His presence, He returns our faith upon the wings of His immense goodness. We become as gardens securely planted by the river. And, the flow of life giving water becomes veritable fountains of vitality flowing through us to parched lives. So, emulate David as he sings in 27: 4. “One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple.”
The beauty of YAH’s presence goes to the depths of His “ever-presence”. It’s like a one-liner I once heard, “If you feel far from God, guess who moved”. When we get a grip on our position, we find YAH was there all the time—ever solid, ever Faithful. When we come to Him, or return to Him, we “make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High”, and are accordingly encouraged.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
Chapter One
The Beauty of His Presence
Psalms 84: 1: “How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts!
For “tabernacles”, the Psalmists used “mishkan”. From tents to Solomon’s Temple, the Spirit of the Living God there within dwelt in all His majesty and greatness. From His holy habitation proceeded justice and mercy for those that came into His presence and called upon His name.
Divine blessing immersed His faithful, while judgment fell accordingly on all those too mired in the cares of life to see value in YAH’s presence. Yet, for the faithful, they saw a value worth far more than silver or gold, rubies or diamonds. They realized the most beautiful and valuable gem was pale in comparison to YAH’s presence.
For “amiable”, the Psalmists used “y’diyd”. Nelson’s NKJV renders this word as “lovely”. Webster defines the word as “an agreeable, friendly and sociable attitude”. It is an amiable loveliness that is as big as the heart of YAH Himself. And, He pours out accordingly on those that seek Him in His temple.
In consideration of a “pouring out”, these Psalmists also sang in 46: 4-5, “There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High. God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God will help her, just at the break of day.”
When we seek the face of His presence, He returns our faith upon the wings of His immense goodness. We become as gardens securely planted by the river. And, the flow of life giving water becomes veritable fountains of vitality flowing through us to parched lives. So, emulate David as he sings in 27: 4. “One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple.”
The beauty of YAH’s presence goes to the depths of His “ever-presence”. It’s like a one-liner I once heard, “If you feel far from God, guess who moved”. When we get a grip on our position, we find YAH was there all the time—ever solid, ever Faithful. When we come to Him, or return to Him, we “make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High”, and are accordingly encouraged.
Click Here For More Psalms 84 Treasures
An Encouraging Word
I once heard a "wishful thinking" story depicting Satan's desire for retirement. He had worked hard through the centuries wreaking havoc upon YHVH's plans. His was tired and looked forward to an impending and well-deserved rest enjoying the fruits of his labor.
In making plans for departure from his works of evil, he gathered all his tools of the trade—lust, greed, hate, etc.—and disposed of them. As he was parting with these tools, he just couldn't resist the thought of maybe coming out of retirement at sometime in the future. So, he decided to keep one tool, just in case. With this one tool—discouragement—he knew he would eventually regain all the other tools he disposed of.
Of course, we all know he will never retire—until the day Yeshua slams for the last time the gates to the bottomless pit. Even so, this little story sets the stage for a presentation of that which YHVH has asked me to do, and has been the focal point of our recent journey around our country—encouraging HIS remnant children.
Sometimes life is peaceful and all seems well. Yet, other times are replete with sorrow and misery—or somewhere in between. In the posts that follow this introduction, I will share thoughts of encouragement I found hidden within the 84th Psalm.
True encouragement is achieved “only” in a manner found in 1 Samuel 30: 6. In the previous 5 verses, an account is given for David's distress. Yet, it is recorded in the latter part of v. 6 that David looked up out of his trouble and “encouraged and strengthened himself in the Lord his God”. With these posts, I pray our Messiah bestows peace and contentment in the place of tribulation.
CLICK HERE FOR CHAPTER 1 OF "HIDDEN TREASURES OF PSALMS 84"
In making plans for departure from his works of evil, he gathered all his tools of the trade—lust, greed, hate, etc.—and disposed of them. As he was parting with these tools, he just couldn't resist the thought of maybe coming out of retirement at sometime in the future. So, he decided to keep one tool, just in case. With this one tool—discouragement—he knew he would eventually regain all the other tools he disposed of.
Of course, we all know he will never retire—until the day Yeshua slams for the last time the gates to the bottomless pit. Even so, this little story sets the stage for a presentation of that which YHVH has asked me to do, and has been the focal point of our recent journey around our country—encouraging HIS remnant children.
Sometimes life is peaceful and all seems well. Yet, other times are replete with sorrow and misery—or somewhere in between. In the posts that follow this introduction, I will share thoughts of encouragement I found hidden within the 84th Psalm.
True encouragement is achieved “only” in a manner found in 1 Samuel 30: 6. In the previous 5 verses, an account is given for David's distress. Yet, it is recorded in the latter part of v. 6 that David looked up out of his trouble and “encouraged and strengthened himself in the Lord his God”. With these posts, I pray our Messiah bestows peace and contentment in the place of tribulation.
CLICK HERE FOR CHAPTER 1 OF "HIDDEN TREASURES OF PSALMS 84"
Best Laid Plans Gone Awry?
As I sit here in our Texas RV park, I find myself reflecting back upon our journey over the last four and a half months. We embarked in early June westbound from Austin, Texas with the idea of making a complete circle of the United States. Our excitement was very hard to conceal. We were very eager to be about our Father's business of finding and encouraging HIS scattered remnant children.
As I sit here looking back upon the events of our journey, I can't help but wonder if something went wrong along the way. Maybe the enemy had been successful in derailing HIS plans for us. A time or two both of us even wondered if “WE” had contributed to the enemy's plans. Maybe we were even in league with him.
Many on our journey received our message of the unchanging purity of HIS Word with respectful rejection. Some on our journey were not as respectful in their rejection. They were quick to let us know we were straying—even to saying YHVH told them so. We even found ourselves early in our journey cut off from sources of contact with which we began—left to go it alone, simply because of our encouragement and from whom we received encouragement.
Sadly, many on our journey will continue on with the delusion of unholy mixtures and reap according to what they've sown. Some have chosen to remain loyal to “Church” doctrines that, at best, are mixtures of HIS purity with doctrines of men. At worst, they completely reject the pure message of Messiah by saying “YHVH is finished with Israel and now works through the 'Church'”.
Others have grabbed hold of the Messianic view of Holy Scripture, yet have fallen short of HIS purity by refusing to let go of impure church teachings—intolerant of any teaching other than theirs. Some have even gone “overboard” with their departure from “Churchianity” and seriously embraced Rabbinical Judaism—a bondage just as deadly as the one they left.
Yet, there were some real bright spots. There was a family in Phoenix, Arizona we met in our RV park. They were full-time RVers like us. There were extremely receptive to the message we presented. The fellowship was truly positive—and was a blessing to us especially in consideration of the spiritual battles we fought before and during our visit to Phoenix. They ministered to us at least as much as we to them.
There was a dear sister in California that prayed us through to our impending visit with her—a segment of our journey in which the enemy literally tried to kill us. Then, there was a brother in California and his family of three generations that opened his home and made us feel like we were part of the family—lots of Johnny Cash fans there too.
We found a dear brother and his family in Montana that received us with equal fervency. With original contacts cut off, we found another brother and sister in northeast Illinois that eagerly opened their home to us. We found a dear sister in the Chicago area equally as receptive. We even found a pastor in the Chicago area that opened his church for us to give testimony and a musical performance.
We made favorable musical contacts in Nashville, Tennessee. We were able to record three new albums in Knoxville, Tennessee. While in Knoxville, we made several new friends and had the opportunity to do a lot of performing. In this, we made contacts that will have bearing on some of our future musical endeavors.
A major highlight of the journey was just ahead of us. We had long desired to attend a Messianic conference in which Mike Clayton of “Joined to HaShem” ministries was speaking. When he was in Oregon, he was too far off our intended route and schedule. He was in Colorado a week or so after we had left. We never got to Ohio. But, Hickory, North Carolina was right on our intended path.
During this weekend conference, we not only heard Mike speak and teach. We were blessed with the teaching of Rico Cortez, Brad Scott, and Bill Cloud. The musical praise teams were terrific. We heard these men teach YHVH's Holy Torah the entire weekend. We heard men that didn't necessarily agree on simple things like the spelling and pronunciation of HIS name, or the day of Shabbat. Yet, they were “in one accord” teaching us how to “get along” and survive in the coming “greater exodus”.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina provided a much needed rest and one round of golf. Because of a neighbor at the RV park, I was given a second round of golf “free” by a new friend from West Virginia—just one day before my birthday. While I was playing golf, SueJean even got to do something I understand ladies love to do—go shopping.
Myrtle Beach was the culmination of a feat many only dream of—the Pacific coast to the Atlantic coast in one trip. While on the Oregon coast, we picked up a little ocean rock with the express purpose of depositing it in the Atlantic. It now resides in the Atlantic off the Myrtle Beach coast—and in the general direction of Israel.
We then traveled to Alabama to visit relatives. There was Torah teaching, rounds of singing, and plenty of great fellowship with SueJean's son and family. Reunion was also very sweet for me, especially after 50 years. We were able to meet with and minister to my cousin in southern Alabama. I pray our next get together won't need to wait that long.
At this point, we had only one thing left to do before returning to Texas. We were destined for a scheduled appointment to celebrate Sukkot (The Feast of Tabernacles) in Oklahoma with Monte Judah. Our fervent desire to maintain our testimony of Yeshua and keep HIS commandments had brought us to this end. What a blessed tag to put on a very eventful circular journey—eleven days of ministry and celebration! There, we were able to receive ministry and minister to people from both the U.S. and Canada.
Once again, I ask if our plans did go awry. I would honestly say, in fact, they definitely did. The plans “WE” made before leaving Austin were unceremoniously derailed before we got half way up the California coast—maybe even before we left Austin. From that time on, we were totally dependent upon YHVH's leading.
In one form or another, derailment happens when we rely upon our plans rather than HIS plans. In actuality, our journey has turned out FAR better at HIS hand than we could have ever dreamed concerning ours. I leave my readers with this verse of Scripture in hopes they will head its instruction and be blessed with HIS peaceful encouragement. I pray all have a terrific Son-shine day in Messiah!
“Trust in Adonai with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3: 5-6
As I sit here looking back upon the events of our journey, I can't help but wonder if something went wrong along the way. Maybe the enemy had been successful in derailing HIS plans for us. A time or two both of us even wondered if “WE” had contributed to the enemy's plans. Maybe we were even in league with him.
Many on our journey received our message of the unchanging purity of HIS Word with respectful rejection. Some on our journey were not as respectful in their rejection. They were quick to let us know we were straying—even to saying YHVH told them so. We even found ourselves early in our journey cut off from sources of contact with which we began—left to go it alone, simply because of our encouragement and from whom we received encouragement.
Sadly, many on our journey will continue on with the delusion of unholy mixtures and reap according to what they've sown. Some have chosen to remain loyal to “Church” doctrines that, at best, are mixtures of HIS purity with doctrines of men. At worst, they completely reject the pure message of Messiah by saying “YHVH is finished with Israel and now works through the 'Church'”.
Others have grabbed hold of the Messianic view of Holy Scripture, yet have fallen short of HIS purity by refusing to let go of impure church teachings—intolerant of any teaching other than theirs. Some have even gone “overboard” with their departure from “Churchianity” and seriously embraced Rabbinical Judaism—a bondage just as deadly as the one they left.
Yet, there were some real bright spots. There was a family in Phoenix, Arizona we met in our RV park. They were full-time RVers like us. There were extremely receptive to the message we presented. The fellowship was truly positive—and was a blessing to us especially in consideration of the spiritual battles we fought before and during our visit to Phoenix. They ministered to us at least as much as we to them.
There was a dear sister in California that prayed us through to our impending visit with her—a segment of our journey in which the enemy literally tried to kill us. Then, there was a brother in California and his family of three generations that opened his home and made us feel like we were part of the family—lots of Johnny Cash fans there too.
We found a dear brother and his family in Montana that received us with equal fervency. With original contacts cut off, we found another brother and sister in northeast Illinois that eagerly opened their home to us. We found a dear sister in the Chicago area equally as receptive. We even found a pastor in the Chicago area that opened his church for us to give testimony and a musical performance.
We made favorable musical contacts in Nashville, Tennessee. We were able to record three new albums in Knoxville, Tennessee. While in Knoxville, we made several new friends and had the opportunity to do a lot of performing. In this, we made contacts that will have bearing on some of our future musical endeavors.
A major highlight of the journey was just ahead of us. We had long desired to attend a Messianic conference in which Mike Clayton of “Joined to HaShem” ministries was speaking. When he was in Oregon, he was too far off our intended route and schedule. He was in Colorado a week or so after we had left. We never got to Ohio. But, Hickory, North Carolina was right on our intended path.
During this weekend conference, we not only heard Mike speak and teach. We were blessed with the teaching of Rico Cortez, Brad Scott, and Bill Cloud. The musical praise teams were terrific. We heard these men teach YHVH's Holy Torah the entire weekend. We heard men that didn't necessarily agree on simple things like the spelling and pronunciation of HIS name, or the day of Shabbat. Yet, they were “in one accord” teaching us how to “get along” and survive in the coming “greater exodus”.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina provided a much needed rest and one round of golf. Because of a neighbor at the RV park, I was given a second round of golf “free” by a new friend from West Virginia—just one day before my birthday. While I was playing golf, SueJean even got to do something I understand ladies love to do—go shopping.
Myrtle Beach was the culmination of a feat many only dream of—the Pacific coast to the Atlantic coast in one trip. While on the Oregon coast, we picked up a little ocean rock with the express purpose of depositing it in the Atlantic. It now resides in the Atlantic off the Myrtle Beach coast—and in the general direction of Israel.
We then traveled to Alabama to visit relatives. There was Torah teaching, rounds of singing, and plenty of great fellowship with SueJean's son and family. Reunion was also very sweet for me, especially after 50 years. We were able to meet with and minister to my cousin in southern Alabama. I pray our next get together won't need to wait that long.
At this point, we had only one thing left to do before returning to Texas. We were destined for a scheduled appointment to celebrate Sukkot (The Feast of Tabernacles) in Oklahoma with Monte Judah. Our fervent desire to maintain our testimony of Yeshua and keep HIS commandments had brought us to this end. What a blessed tag to put on a very eventful circular journey—eleven days of ministry and celebration! There, we were able to receive ministry and minister to people from both the U.S. and Canada.
Once again, I ask if our plans did go awry. I would honestly say, in fact, they definitely did. The plans “WE” made before leaving Austin were unceremoniously derailed before we got half way up the California coast—maybe even before we left Austin. From that time on, we were totally dependent upon YHVH's leading.
In one form or another, derailment happens when we rely upon our plans rather than HIS plans. In actuality, our journey has turned out FAR better at HIS hand than we could have ever dreamed concerning ours. I leave my readers with this verse of Scripture in hopes they will head its instruction and be blessed with HIS peaceful encouragement. I pray all have a terrific Son-shine day in Messiah!
“Trust in Adonai with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3: 5-6
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)