Healing the Sick at Evening | Miracle of Jesus Christ

The Bible gives us many examples of Jesus healing people, delivering people, and setting the captives free. We also know that many more miracles were done by Jesus but not ever recorded. Think back to after the resurrection when Jesus revealed Himself to Thomas, and said, "Thomas, because thou hast seen Me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed." (John 20:29) John writes in verses 30 and 31 of that same chapter, "And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through His name." So the point in reading these miraculous accounts of what Christ did is to build our faith and that faith will cause us to accept Jesus as Son of God and Messiah, so then we will receive everlasting life. We must continue to share these stories because everyone needs to know the truth about who Jesus is and what He actually did while He was on the earth.

The first account of this miracle is in Matthew 8:16-17. It reads:

When the even was come, they brought unto Him many that were possessed with devils: and He cast out the spirits with His word, and healed all that were sick: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.

Jesus had a reputation that He could do the miraculous and that drew desperate people to Himself. Many were possessed with devils. This is an important statement. This was an issue in that area at the time. We see today in 2024 there are many in this nation, and around the globe who are possessed with devils and they are in need of deliverance that can only come from Jesus. We are told in the Holy script that Jesus cast out the evil spirits with His word. He didn't have to beg them to go, or ask them to leave. Jesus Christ had all power given to Him by His Father and He had authority over unclean spirits and they had to obey Him. Why did Jesus heal the sick and afflicted? We are told it was to fulfill the prophecy Isaiah gave.

Isaiah 53:3-5 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our face from Him; He was despised, and we esteemed Him not. Surely He hath born our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.

Jesus was most certainly despised and rejected of men. We see how he sorrowfully opened His arms wide to Jerusalem and with a heavy heart said, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen doth gather her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!" (Matthew 23:37) Yet He still healed the sick and tormented. He still carried our sins and our penalty and paid the price to redeem us all, including those who to this day will reject Him.

Mark gives an account of these miracles as well in chapter one, in verses 32 through 34.

And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto Him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils. And all the city was gathered together at the door. And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew Him.

Mark gives a little more information on what is happening this particular evening. An onslaught of people have come to be healed and delivered by Jesus. They are gathered at the door. The Bible tells us Jesus is the door that we must go through to get to God. "Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before Me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, He shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture." John 10:7-9

Jesus healed many that came and delivered those possessed with devils. Mark goes on to say that Jesus did not permit the demons to speak because they knew Him. These evil spirits knew Jesus is the Christ and they would have said so if they were allowed to speak. Jesus was very sensitive to the timing in which His Heavenly Father did all things and this was not the time, so they were not allowed to speak.

Luke's Gospel gives account of this story in chapter 4 verses 40 and 41.

Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto Him; and He laid His hands on every one of them, and healed them. And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And He rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that He was Christ.

I like reading Luke's account because of the details he included. He said there were divers diseases, like we read in Mark's Gospel. Luke says Jesus laid His hand on every single one of them and healed them. There was no blanket prayer or a group session. Jesus went to each individual and healed them all.

The devils also came out proclaiming Jesus is the Son of God, the Christ. Jesus had to rebuke them and not allow them to speak because He knew it was not time for that. Jesus knew His life was on a timeline designed by His Father and we see over and over again how Jesus continues to lay down His own will and yields to His Father.

Jesus was familiar with suffering and sorrow. We know this if we study His life. He felt pain and grief. He knew what it felt like to be with someone day and night for three and half years and they still would betray Him with a kiss in the garden of Gethsemane. Jesus knows what we are going through and Peter reminds us that Jesus set the tone for how we should respond when we are hurt, strongly criticized, and wounded. Let's read that final passage in closing of today's study.

1 Peter 2:21-25 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth: Who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not: but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously: Who His own Self bare our sins in His body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by Whose stripes ye are healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

Friends, Jesus still heals, delivers, and saves. Call upon Him now and He will meet your needs. Just ask Him to do it and He will. He has given us proof today in His Word that it is His desire for us to be whole. Let's keep our confidence in the One who can do what no one can: Jesus our miracle working Savior!

I hope something shared today has been strength for your journey and light for your way.

God bless you,
Bridgett Owens

Psalm 30 | Bible Study Wednesday

Welcome back to Bible Study Wednesday! This year God has pressed upon my heart to study the book of Psalms. Each Wednesday we take a closer look at a new chapter. Today we are going to chapter 30. If you have not done so, please take the time to read through these 12 verses. I will be sharing some thoughts about today's passage and break down this chapter below. Please pray and ask Holy Spirit to open your spiritual eyes and ears to receive everything He has to teach you in today's passage. Let's begin!

It occurred to me that last week I jumped ahead to Psalm 40. I do not know why I did that. I remember thinking that it could not possibly be the 40th week of the year, but I was doing multiple things and ignored the Holy Spirit trying to tell me I was not in the correct Psalm for that week. So, today and each week moving forward I will do my best to stay on track and then we will skip Psalm 40 and move to Psalm 41 through Psalm 52 to finish the year. God works all things together for good to them who love Him and are called according to His purpose. I truly believe that the timing is correct for this particular psalm in my life and I am thankful to be studying it today.

Verse 1

Psalm 30 was a song at the dedication of the house of David. To extol means to enthusiastically praise. This particular psalm is David's excitement and great delight for many things God is doing. In this specific verse David is thankful for the victory God gave him over his enemies. What can we see in our own lives right now that looking back we see God's hands delivering us and uplifting us to victorious places? Can we, like David, extol God?

Verse 2

This verse is underlined in my Bible. As someone who suffers with a chronic illness, it has been a beautiful reminder that God is healing me and helping me with all that I am going through. When we call upon our Heavenly Father, He will hear us and heal us. He is the Great Physician. He is the God who heals us.

EXODUS 15:26 And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in His sight, and wilt give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee.

Today if you need healing in your body, or you know someone that does, listen to God's voice and do what is right in His sight, obey His Laws and Commandments and this promise is for you to claim! He is the God that heals you!

Verse 3

David was critically ill and God healed his body. He was facing death and maybe you have had a bad diagnosis or you may have suffered to the point you thought you might die; trust God to heal you and He will do it! David is enthusiastically praising God because he was facing a life-threatening condition and God healed him. He was about to die and be buried and God healed him and gave him a fresh lease on life.

Verse 4

David wants the saints to join him in thanking God and remembering the times the LORD moved on our behalf before. How many prayers has He answered? How many big and mighty things has our great God Jehovah done for us? Can we recall how God is Holy and is not changed by what is going on in our world today? He sits high and lifted up on His throne and He is Sovereign. He is Holy. He is Mighty and Great in power! Yes, let's pause this Bible study to worship who He is and thank Him for all that He has done on our behalf. He is still working out details and putting plans together. It is incredible and we are blessed to have a Holy and Righteous Heavenly Father that loves us so much He continues to bless us.

PSALM 68:19 Blessed be the Lord, Who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation, Selah.

Verse 5

This is a familiar verse, and also underlined in my Bible. This is a character reference of God. He does get angry. He is a Holy God and when we are not living according to His holy Laws and Commands, we make Him angry. He expects us to live in holiness. But His anger does not last a long time. David says it only lasts a moment. He favors His children with love and life and even though we may cry all night and mourn in the dark seasons of life, we are promised a morning of joy. There will be a breakthrough of praise and overflowing joy in our lives as we overcome the hardships and trials in life.

Verses 6-7

This passage reminds me of the proverb about pride coming before the fall. When we are puffed up and think we have it made, we may have our head up so high we fail to see the stumbling block in our path and down we go!

PROVERBS 16:18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

I like the way the Message translation says these two verses, "When things were going great I crowed, "I've got it made. I'm GOD's favorite. He made me king of the mountain." Then You looked the other way and I fell to pieces."

What have we been asking God and believing that He will do something big and mighty for us? What has He done for us that we had no way of ever being able to do for ourselves? Have we taken the credit? Have we had prideful thoughts and like David thought we had it made? It's all smooth sailing from here? Be careful because God does not want us to get puffed up about our blessings. We are to be thankful and grateful but hold them with loose grips. We are loaned these things but they are not ours to keep forever. Vehicles break down. Homes need maintenance. Relationships require effort on your part to continue to flourish. Careers can end. Bodies can become weak or ill. Let's thank God for what we are blessed with but never get puffed up because of where God puts us. He can as easily bring us down low as He can exalt us in due time.

Verses 8-10

David recognizes his mistake. He goes to God, and he cries out in supplication. Remember supplication is humbly and earnestly begging for something. David's plea is for God to redeem him. He asks what good is it if he dies? Can the dust praise God? Will the dust share God's truth? David begs for mercy and asks God sincerely for His help. You see, friends, we are nothing apart from God. He is our Creator. He is our Heavenly Father. He is our friend. He sent us our Redeemer. Jesus loves us so much that He has redeemed us with His precious blood.

If you find yourself puffed up and proud when you should be meek and humble and grateful, turn to God. Repent of the sin of pride and open your heart to His love and mercy and grace. Ask for His help and trust that He will not leave you in the condition you are in. He is too merciful and too loving to do that to His children who truly are sorry.

Verses 11-12

When our change comes, when the times of refreshing wash over our souls, may we be like David. We can say, after He cleanses us, that God has turned my mourning into dancing. I am no longer sad about what I lost because I am back in His presence, dancing before the Lord. Instead of sackcloth and ashes and fasting, God has given me a garment of praise and gladness, so that I may praise You God and not be silent. I will thank You forever!

ISAIAH 61:3 To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called the trees of Righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He might be glorified.

Today's Bible study was so precious to me. I hope that you all have a wonderful day. I pray that something shared on my blog today has given you strength for your journey and light for your way. God bless you!

~Bridgett Owens

Psalm 27 | Wednesday Bible Study

 

Welcome back to Bible Study Wednesday! We are doing our first Bible study this month. God pressed upon my heart to study the book of Psalms this year. Each Wednesday we take a closer look at a new chapter. Today we are going to chapter 27. If you have not done so, please take the time to read through these 14 verses. I will be sharing some thoughts about today's passage and break down this chapter below. Please pray and ask Holy Spirit to open your spiritual eyes and ears to receive everything He has to teach you in today's passage. Let's begin!

Verse 1

David's psalm begins with a question he asks in two ways. Whom shall I fear, or whom shall I be afraid of? Those questions are in direct comparison to the characteristics of God.

*God is my light.

*God is my salvation.

*God is my life's strength.

Since God is light, salvation, and strength, there is nothing to fear. David cannot fear darkness when he is walking in the Light. David is never lost when he knows his Salvation is in God alone. David does not fear powerful people, because God has all Power, all Strength and He will never fail or lose.

Verses 2-3

David recalls times past when enemies came at him to kill him, but God caused them to stumble and fall. ISAIAH 54:17 No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of Me, saith the LORD. David had this promise. We have it, too.

David said even when a multitude of people surround him to harm him, he will not be afraid. He said he will keep his confidence even if war breaks out against him! HEBREWS 10:35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. We can stand firm on the solid rock of Jesus regardless of how many bad things happen to us or come against us. ROMANS 8:31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? That verse alone is one we can stand on and proclaim with confidence knowing God will prevail over all our enemies.

Verse 4

What was David's greatest desire? What was his heart's longing? What is the biggest thing He asked of God? It is in this verse. David didn't just ask God for this, but he sought for it. He longed to dwell in the house of God for the rest of his life. To see God's beauty and to ask for His help. David didn't have God on an emergency hotline, only to be called on when he wanted something. No, God called David a man after His own heart. He loved David and David loved God. They had a relationship. David delighted in God. This is why ten chapters later we see David pen these words, "Delight thyself also in the LORD; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart." (PSALM 37:4) What are we delighting in?

Verse5

David had nothing to fear. God will hide him in His pavilion, in the secret place of His tabernacle, and set David upon a rock. He had sure footing. He had protection. He had provision. There was nothing that David would face that God couldn't and wouldn't handle! We can have that same confidence.

Verse 6

David said now he can hold his head up high, give joyful sacrifices to God, and sing praise to the LORD. Why? Because everything David needs is found in relationship with God. Everything you and I face in this life is found in the promises of God's Word. All our hope, strength, protection, provision, and blessings are found in God alone. We have nothing to fear or dread and when we get to the point of recognizing that, we will be no match for satan because then we will walk in confidence of who our Father is and what He is doing in our lives. We will be undefeated because Jesus has already overcome the world. These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Verses 7-8

David says to God, "Hear me when I cry. Have mercy upon me and answer me." Then he says, "When You said to seek Your face God, I did so." Have we been seeking God's face or His hands? Are we more interested in what God can do for us, or are we more concerned about doing something for Him? What does our prayer life look like? Are we using our prayer time to only petition the LORD and never praise or thank Him? What is our heart posture like? Are we like David and we want to seek the face of God? We want to know Him intimately. We want to be in fellowship and communion with God?

Verses 9-10

David understands what it means to be left out and forgotten. He begs God to not hide His face from him. He asks God to not put him away in God's great wrath. Why? Why would David say that? Because God has been His help. He says leave me not, neither forsake me. He needs God. God has always been there for David. When David called, God answered. David could not even get that kind of response from his father and brothers.

When Saul was rejected by God as king over Israel, God sent Samuel to anoint a new king. 1 SAMUEL 16:1 And the LORD said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, and I will send thee to Jesse the Bethlehemite: for I have provided for me a king among his sons. Samuel tells Jesse to bring all of his sons. Jesse lines up all his children except for David. One by one God rejects each son to be king. Samuel knows what God told him. Something is wrong when none of the sons are the new king. 1 SAMUEL 16:11 And Samuel said unto Jesse, Are here all thy children? And he said, There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep. And Samuel said unto Jesse, Send and fetch him: for we will not sit down till he come hither. His father was ashamed of David because he was a keeper of the sheep. His dad counted him out because he was the youngest and was ruddy. He was forgotten and forsaken by his own father at one of the most crucial times in his life. 1 SAMUEL 16:12 And he sent, and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and withal of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look to. And the LORD said, Arise, anoint him: for this is he. Now we can see why David would say when his own father and mother abandoned him, God will choose him. God picked David. God said, "David you are Mine!" at a time when he was being hidden and counted out by his own father. Others will fail us and let us down. Some will be ashamed of us and not want to include us, but God will never forsake us. He will never leave us. He will never abandon us!

Verses 11-12

David is praying that God will show and teach him the way to go. He wants a smooth path when his enemies are against him. Do you know how hard it is to navigate rocky, uneven paths? It slows you down. If you have someone chasing you to kill you, you want the advantage of a smooth path where you can get away faster. David knew he must be taught these things because doing life on our own is a dangerous, foolish adventure that ends in failure. David asks God to protect him from the liars and cruel enemies rushing toward him to harm him. God will give us the protection we need, too.

Verse 13

This is a verse I have outlined in my Bible. It is one of the verses I quote often in 2022 when I look around and see violence, turmoil, division, confusion, chaos, and frustration everywhere I turn. It is on the news, social media, reels, videos, tweets, texts, posts, you name it! Everyone has the freedom online to say and do whatever they please and they take their liberties. It is a wicked, vile world we live in and it is just becoming more wicked and vile as the days go by. I, too, like David would have given up if I had not seen God's goodness all around me. I may see the enemy at work everywhere I turn, but I also see the Mighty hand of God providing, protecting, and uplifting His people. He is our shield, our strength, and our help!

Verse 14

This verse is also underlined in my Bible. This verse is David speaking from experience. He is giving you and me advice. He is telling us what has worked for him over and over again. He is giving us the blueprint to be successful in this journey where it can be discouraging and even depressing to keep going. I want to repeat it here today. This is David's instruction to us; let it bless you.

"Wait on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD."

*Wait on God.

*Be of good courage.

*Wait on God.

And the promise? He will strengthen us.

We are not promised He will remove the problem. We are not promised a bed of roses. We are not told we will never have another issue. We are not promised that our loved ones would never die, or our bills would never pile up, or that we would be the most popular person on the planet. We are told God will strengthen our heart.

Why did David say this? Because when our heart is strong, we can keep running. When we get our strength back we can fight. When we have strength we do not have to worry which leads to sickness and disease and sometimes death. God is giving us His power to strengthen us when times are hard. If we feel like we have slowed to a snail's pace, we need to wait on God, be of good courage, and wait! He will get us through!

I hope something in today's study has spoken to you. Feel free to leave a comment below or reach out to me via email, on social media, or text me if you have my phone number. I pray that something I have shared on the blog today has given you strength for your journey and light for you way. God bless you!

~Bridgett Owens

Hard Assignment | Fuel For The Weekend

Welcome back to another Fuel For the Weekend blog post. I am excited about today! My husband is off work. He is not feeling the best. Javan and I are under the weather, as well, but we are still getting things done and that feels good. What are you doing this weekend?

Today I want to give you something to think about, talk about, and dig deeper in this weekend. It is in the book of Ezekiel. We are going to discuss five verses in the second chapter. But first, I would like to give a brief overview and background of where we studying. Ezekiel is a prophet of God. He is also a priest and he is ministering during the darkest days of the tribe of Judah's history. They are in captivity in Babylon and he will use parables, signs, and symbols, along with prophecies to get God's message across to His people in exile. Ezekiel has a very tough mission because God's chosen people are rebellious and hard-headed. This is why they are in exile; they would not respond appropriately to God nor would they observe His laws and commands. Now, they are in a place they do not want to be, severe oppression and depression overtake them, and it is up to Ezekiel to share God's message with them. What an incredible quest. Has God given you a task that you did not ask for, maybe one you do not want, but you have to do it? Has He called you to help others who seem like they could care less about God or anything He has to say? Ezekiel has been so commissioned.

Today's text is Ezekiel 2:1-5 but I want to start with chapter one verse 28 for a clear picture of why Ezekiel is no longer standing. So if we back up one verse, Ezekiel describes seeing something like a rainbow after the rain. This rainbow and it's brightness was how the likeness of the glory of God appeared to this prophet. When he saw this image he dropped to the ground. He fell on his face and then he heard "a voice of one that spake." Let's pick up our text in Ezekiel 2:1-5 and I promise there will be some hope and encouragement at the end of today's blog post for you!

Ezekiel 2:1 And He said unto me, Son of man, stand upon thy feet, and I will speak unto thee.

In this verse, when it says "son of man" it says in the expanded Bible that it means "human being" and it is used 93 times in this book to address the prophet. It is a title that refers to Ezekiel's frailty as a human in comparison to the great Sovereignty of God. God, the Creator, the LORD of all the earth, is speaking to Ezekiel and wants him to stand up so they can have a conversation. He recognizes that Ezekiel is flabbergasted and has hit the floor in overwhelm. He needs Ezekiel's attention, because He has to give him some instructions and He wants Ezekiel to hear everything He is saying.

In the book of Acts, Saul is on the way to Damascus so he can persecute God's people. He thinks he is doing God a favor by consenting to the death of Christians in the early church. But as he goes to Damascus a light surrounded him and it was so bright he fell to the earth. Let's read it. Acts 9:4-6 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me?  And he said, Who are Thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks (goads). And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

God will get your attention when He needs you to step into your destiny. He has a specific call on your life and He knows what language to speak to get your attention. You will find yourself humbled and feeling very small in contrast to the vastness of God.

Ezekiel 2:2 And the spirit entered into me when He spake unto me, and set me upon my feet, that I heard Him that spake unto me.

In the book of Daniel, we see a similar situation. Daniel 8:17-18 So he came near where I stood: and when he came, I was afraid, and fell upon my face: but he said unto me, Understand, O son of man: for at the time of the end shall be the vision. Now as he was speaking with me, I was in a deep sleep, on my face toward the ground: but he touched me, and set me upright.

The supernatural is scary. It is overwhelming to experience God in that way, and yet there is great significance for it. God will help you when you are in that situation. He picked up Ezekiel and Daniel and he helped Saul who later became Paul and wrote a huge portion of the New Testament. Do not be afraid to seek God and experience His Sovereignty and power. You may not have the same experiences as these prophets but when God puts something in your heart that scares you, it's your big purpose and it can be frightening to think about. The good news is you are not alone.

Ezekiel 2:3 And He said unto me, Son of man, I send thee to the children of Israel, to a rebellious nation, that hath rebelled against Me: they and their fathers have transgressed against Me, even unto this very day.

Would you be excited about this assignment? If God tells you to witness to people who are too hard-hearted to listen to the voice of God, would you want to go? Would you be excited about talking to them and telling them what God had to say? I know I have had to speak to people who were so prideful and haughty they would hardly listen. They wanted things to be all about them and had no room for the correction of God's Word. Through much prayer and exhortation I was able to share what God wanted them to know. I was in awe as I watched Him chip away at their ego and their carnal nature. It was amazing to see Him work in ways I never knew were possible.

Remember they are not rejecting you if you speak God's Word, they reject Him. It is imperative that we share the Gospel and allow Holy Spirit to do the rest.

1 Samuel 8:7,8 And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them. According to all the works which they have done since the day that I brought them up out of Egypt even unto this day, wherewith they have forsaken Me, and served other gods, so do they also unto thee.

Ezekiel 2:4 For they are impudent children and stiffhearted. I do send thee unto them; and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD.

I love that God does not expect us to come up with our own speech when we go where He sends us. He does not leave everything up to us. He just asks that we be willing vessels to be used by Him to reach the ones who have gone astray. This is pivotal because we are not in the control chair, He is! That is the key to all of this!

Psalm 95:6-11 O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. For He is our God; and we are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand. To day if ye will hear His voice, Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness: When your fathers tempted Me, proved Me, and saw My work. Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known My ways; Unto whom I sware in My wrath that they should not enter into My rest.

Jeremiah 5:3 O LORD, are not Thine eyes upon the truth? Thou hast stricken them, but they have not grieved; Thou hast consumed them, but they have refused to receive correction; they have made their faces harder than a rock; they have refused to return.

Jeremiah 6:15 Were they ashamed when they had committed abomination? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush: therefore they shall fall among them that fall: at the time that I visit them they shall be cast down, saith the LORD.

If you have time, read Isaiah chapter 58. It is another instance of the stiff-necked, rebellious people that God loves and wants to redeem but they refuse. These are not accounts of the heathen, pagan nations. This is God speaking directly to and about the children of Israel that He rescued and delivered and provided for. He blessed them and helped them and they rejected Him and disobeyed Him over and over and over again.

Ezekiel 2:5 And they, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear, (for they are a rebellious house,) yet shall know that there hath been a prophet among them.

Why would God send Ezekiel to such a people? Why bother with them at all? So they will know that God loves them enough to send a prophet to be His mouthpiece. They can never say He did not try to show them the right way. They will be without excuse. He comes in love and mercy but the choice is theirs. It is up to them whether or not they receive it. They cannot receive the message from God without the messenger so God chose Ezekiel. Did He choose you? Do you have unsaved loved ones and friends who are doing life on their terms? Do you have family or friends who think they are enough, and that by doing good things, or donating to charities they will somehow squeeze into heaven? Friends, it is up to you and me to tell them!

One final thought and it is in Romans, the first chapter. We can read it together:

Romans 1:16-21 For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold (suppress) the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

Friends, we must take our assignment seriously. God is calling all of us to specific people in our lives. It may be a neighbor, a coworker, a friend, a family member, or even a stranger. Be sensitive to Holy Spirit and allow Him to use you to lead others to Christ. Yes, it may seem hard, because it is hard. It may seem impossible and hopeless, but it isn't. God is with us and we can do all things as He strengthens us according to Philippians 4:13. Remember with God nothing is impossible according to Luke 1:37. God bless you friends!

~Bridgett Owens

Good Report | Thankful Thursday

I am so thankful that Javan got his stitches out today. He did really well. The doctor packed the wound and I will continue that in the time increments he told me. The wound is expected to close in 6-8 weeks. Everything is going right along the time frame we were originally given. He still cannot swim in a pool, lake, or ocean, but he can watch a dirt track race in person with some extra precautions. I know this is not going to be the best summer of his life, but it is the perfect time to have the procedure and heal. We do not have any sports or school schedules to contend with, so it worked out. I am thankful for a good report at the doctor. God is so good!

ISAIAH 12:4-5

And in that day shall ye say,

Praise the LORD,

call upon His name,

declare His doings among the people,

make mention that His name is exalted.

Sing unto the LORD;

for He hath done excellent things:

this is known in all the earth.

I am declaring TODAY that I will praise His Holy name. I have called upon Him this morning and now I am declaring His good deeds to all of you. This Thankful Thursday, I am mentioning God's goodness and exalting His name. I am singing to God because He had done excellent things. What God has done: the good things and wonderful things and excellent things is known throughout the entire earth. We can see what blessings and answered prayers He has given us. What are you thankful for this Thankful Thursday? Exalt His name with me today and praise Him, sing to Him, for all the wonderful ways He has blessed your life.

~Bridgett Owens

Psalm 23 | Bible Study Wednesday

Welcome back to Bible Study Wednesday! This year God has pressed upon my heart to study the book of Psalms. Each Wednesday we take a closer look at a new chapter. Today we are going to chapter 23. I know it is a familiar passage, but if you have not done so, please take the time to read through these 6 verses. I will be sharing some thoughts about today's passage and break down this chapter below. Please pray and ask Holy Spirit to open your spiritual eyes and ears to receive everything He has to teach you in today's passage. Let's begin!

Verse 1

David begins this psalm declaring the LORD is his shepherd. We all know David was a shepherd boy. He was tending sheep when they called him to meet the prophet Samuel and was anointed king over Israel. He was looking after sheep when his father told him to take some food to his brothers and check on them, not realizing David would slay the giant Goliath. This is a special picture of God through David's eyes. He knows the commitment and the dedication it takes to be a good shepherd. A good shepherd will take care of the sheep's needs. They will not desire food, water, or shelter because the shepherd will provide. In Psalm 80:1, it says this, "Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, Thou that leadest Jospeh like a flock; Thou that dwellest between the cherubims, shine forth." Another reference to God being the Shepherd of our souls. Jesus even called Himself the Good Shepherd. John 10:11 I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep. We know that Jesus did give His life for the entire world, for whosoever will accept the gift of salvation.

David declares that since God is his Shepherd, he will not want. That does not mean he will get everything he wants. It means that God will meet David's needs. David does not have to go without necessities in life. It may seem like some of our needs do not get met as quickly as we like, or in the way we would like, but God is our Shepherd and He will take care of us.

Verse 2

This verse has two parts. The first statement is that God provides green pastures. This is indicative of blessings and abundance. If you think like a sheep, a pasture full of lush, green grass would be delicious. You could eat to your heart's content and still have plenty. This is again, David referring to the providential hand of God. Psalm 65:11-13 Thou crownest the year with Thy goodness; and Thy paths drop fatness (abundance). They drop upon the pastures of the wilderness: and the little hills rejoice on every side. The pastures are clothed with flocks; the valleys also are covered over with corn; they shout for joy, they also sing. What a picture! The overflow of God's goodness. He is saying the low spots, the valleys, are covered over with corn. There is goodness even in the low spots. There is rejoicing and singing. It is a time of blessing and provision. Isaiah 55:11-13 So shall My Word be that goeth forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing wherto I sent it. For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn, shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off. Instead of thorns you get pine cones and instead of briers you get dainty leaves that are green year round, and in summer you get star-like blossoms and the fragrance fills the air. Instead of receiving painful things, we receive useful and beautiful things. Wow! I love that!!

Part two of that verse says God leads us beside still waters. Sheep do not trust fast-flowing water. They will die of dehydration before they put their face in rushing water. They know they cannot swim well and it is a source of danger to them. The wool becomes heavy when soaked and the water bed is usually rocky and uneven. It would be easy for a sheep to topple over and drown. A good shepherd would never lead a thirsty flock to such a stream for the sake of letting them drink. Instead, they will take the sheep to calm waters.

This is the same for us. God leads us as the Good Shepherd. He does not intentionally take us into dangerous situations. Sometimes we have to cross rushing water, or tread along unsteady rock beds, but we know if He takes us through such circumstances it is for our protection and for our good. He will lead us beside the still waters as often as possible. We know that if He is leading, the path is safe as long as we follow where He leads.

 

Verse 3

Again, this verse contains two different parts. First, He restores our soul. When we are weary, and we have done everything we knew to do, we can become fatigued. The journey is long and hard when we choose Jesus as the Shepherd we follow. It is worth it, because of the benefits. Jesus restores our soul, which means He rebuilds it back to the original condition. Think of how one might restore an old car. There is a lot of work that goes into putting it back like it was. Sometimes the hard roads we travel seem nothing like the peaceful streams we read about in the Shepherd's psalm, but we have to remember, God is fixing some things in our lives. He is putting us back together. When we veer off the right path, He restores us back to where we belong.

Part two of this verse says, "He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake." He does not force us back into the right path, He leads us there. He leads by example. He goes ahead of us and leads the way. He shows us what choices to make and gives us wisdom. David says in Psalm 5:8 "Lead me, O LORD, in Thy righteousness because of mine enemies: make Thy way straight before my face." Have you prayed that prayer? I know I have. I wanted God to put me in right standing with Him so that others who mocked me and ridiculed me would know God was ordering my steps. When God leads us onto paths of righteousness it is for His name's sake. The world will take notice that we are going in a different direction. We do not accept the same invitations. We do not partake in the same activities. We are different because we are on the righteous path of God.

Verse 4

This verse has been used in songs, movies, spoken at funerals and in times of great distress. There is a lot of comfort in this verse. Even though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we do not have to be afraid. Yes, the Good Shepherd will lead us through this valley many times through the course of our lives, but we do not need to fear. Why? For You, God, are with me. You comfort me with Your rod and staff. But what are those things, the rod and the staff?

The rod is for protection. The rod would be used on predators trying to devour the sheep. God gives us protection from our enemy as well. It has been said that shepherds used it to count sheep. The rod would be extended and the sheep would go underneath it one by one. It reminds me that the Good Shepherd will leave the 99 to go after the one lost sheep. How would it know there were any missing if it did not count the sheep? Each one mattered to the shepherd. We can be assured each one of us matter to our Good Shepherd as well. Matthew 18:12-13 How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Such a beautiful picture of God's love and protection to us.

In Psalm 16:8, David says, "I have set the LORD always before me: because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. And in Isaiah, what a loving promise we find. Isaiah 43:2 When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. We can say that is all metaphorically speaking, but if we turn to Daniel 3:25, we read, "He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God. God will literally be with you and with me in each and every circumstance of our lives. He will lead us and guide us and protect us.

The staff is for guiding the sheep along the path the shepherd would take them on. He would use the curved top of the staff to rescue a sheep gone astray. Perhaps David recalled the times he would lean on the staff as he tended sheep. It was a great source to steady oneself on rough terrain and it would serve to support the shepherd. God is that staff for us. He guides us and pulls us back to safety. He also supports us and gives us a steady gait when navigating rough roads.

Verse 5

This particular verse has three main points. First, the LORD prepares a table before David in the midst of his enemies. God will spread a banquet table out for us to eat and enjoy while those who tried to discourage us and destroy us watch. He will give us the blessings and provision we have already read about in this passage so far. We will not eat and partake of these blessings in a prideful way, but we will humbly thank God for the blessings and He will lift us up when the time is right. 1 Peter 5:5-7 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the Mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.

The second part of this verse is He will anoint your head with oil. What is the significance of that? To honor a guest, one would anoint their head with oil. We read in Luke 7:44-47, Jesus had just been anointed with oil by Mary and her perfume in the alabaster box. The guests at the dinner party Jesus was invited to were all treating the woman with disdain and disrespect. Jesus had something to say to defend her and to let Simon and the others know they were wrong. "And He turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for My feet: but she hath washed My feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss My feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed My feet with ointment. Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. David says his head is anointed with oil, indicating he feels like an honored guest at the table of God.

The third part of this verse is David's cup running over. If you have ever watched a young child pour a glass of milk, they are sort of unsteady and are learning when to stop pouring. Sometimes the child pours too much and the milk runs over spilling out onto the table or floor. David feels so rich with God's blessings and provision, he says his cup is running over. Today we enjoy the same treatment by our Heavenly Father. He sits us at His table and feeds us all the good and healthy things in front of the enemy who works against us. He anoints our head letting the devil know we are His chosen and anointed vessels. Then God fills our lives to overflowing with good things so it can spill over onto those around us. Isaiah 25:1 O LORD, Thou art my God; I will exalt Thee, I will praise Thy Name; for Thou hast done wonderful things; Thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. In Psalm 16:11, David says, "Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in Thy presence is fulness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Jesus said, in John 15:11 These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. David's joy was running over it was so full.

Verse 6

David has confidence in God as His Good Shepherd. He knows that goodness and mercy, or loving kindness, will be David's traveling companions the rest of his life. What do you feel are your traveling companions? Sometimes it may feel like pain and suffering, or hardship and strife, maybe even loss and grief are constant companions to us in this life. We know that hard times do not last always when we serve the Risen King Jesus. David decided no matter what the circumstances of his life looked like, he would choose God's goodness and mercy to follow him.

In this life we have suffering and trials, but the good news is this life is not all there is. In fact, this life is fleeting. Remember what James said? James 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow, For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. David knew he would dwell in the house of the LORD forever! We have the same assurance if Jesus is our Savior. Revelation 21:1-5 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And He that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And He said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.

We all have the promise that we will live with King Jesus forever more one of these days! We may endure hardship in this life now, but soon it will all be forgotten when we behold the glory of God and His majesty. We will know it was all worth it to look upon His face. To know that Jesus has paid the ultimate price for us to live with Him in eternity, will cause us to forget the toil and strife of this life. What a day that will be!

I hope you have enjoyed studying the Shepherd's Psalm with me today. What is your favorite part? God bless you!!

~Bridgett Owens

3 Ships | Fuel For The Weekend

Sometimes God gives me a word, a phrase, or a concept and I will write it down, but then it may be a while before God gives me the full download. On May 4, 2022, God gave me three words: Relationship, Friendship, Kinship. Today, I want to share three SHIPS God wants us to join Him in, what can hinder us from being in each SHIP, and what our responsibility is if we say yes.

RELATIONSHIP -the way in which two or more concepts, objects, or people are connected, or the state of being connected; the state of being connected by blood or marriage; the way in which two or more people or groups regard and behave toward each other.

God wants a relationship with us. We are connected to God by His Son Jesus. It is through the blood of Jesus that we are redeemed to God, and it paid for the sins that separated us from God. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. We have all sinned and so we are all separated from God until we are cleansed in His blood. Isaiah 1:18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. 

If we will not choose Jesus to be our Lord, and if we refuse to admit our sins or turn from them, then we will not be in relationship with God. John 10:1 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. John 10:7 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. Jesus is the only Way to get to God. If we try to get to God any other way than a real relationship with Jesus Christ, we will not make it to heaven. That will hinder us from joining Jesus in the ship.

What is our responsibility to have a relationship with Jesus? Matthew 10:32-33 Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven. We must confess Jesus Christ is Lord and admit we have sinned. He will forgive us and cleanse us. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  When we do these things we will have a relationship with Jesus.

FRIENDSHIP -the emotions or conduct of friends; the state of being friends; a relationship between friends; a state of mutual trust and support between allied nations.

Jesus showed us what it is to be a friend. He said this in John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Jesus loved us so much that He laid down His life for all of us, His friends and His foes. Abraham was the friend of God. What did he do to get that title? James 2:23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.

It sounds great to be called the Friend of God, doesn't it? So what are some things that hinder us from being His friend? James 4:4 Ye adulterers and adultresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. In today's culture, that is some strong statements, isn't it? To be a friend of the world is to be the enemy of God. What is friendship with the world? What does that look like? It looks like living for yourself, pleasing others, looking for fulfillment apart from God; in a career or relationship or being famous. Mark 8:36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? What good is it to be rich and famous in this life and have the entire world applaud you but in the life to come you are tormented for eternity because you never made room for God? You never put Him first. How can we prevent being friends with the world and instead be the Friend of God? 1 John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

Our responsibility to have a friendship with God is found in the book of John. John 15:14-15 Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of My Father I have made known unto you. We are to do what Jesus commands. We are to love one another. We are to love our enemies. We are to love God. We must keep His commandments and they are not hard. 1 John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments: and His commandments are not grievous. When we choose to obey Christ and follow Him instead of dancing to the piper of this world, we will have friendship with God.

KINSHIP -blood relationship; a sharing of characteristics or origins.

God granted our pardon through the blood of Jesus. 1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. Our relationship with God is secured by the blood of Jesus Christ.

We were without salvation before we had a relationship with Jesus Christ. Now we are family of God when we are born again. Ephesians 2:11-13 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at the time ye were without Christ, 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 Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. The blood of Jesus washed us clean and it allows us to draw near to Him. In Revelation chapter one, verse five it says that Jesus loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood. That is such a perfect picture of how He cleansed us.

What can hinder this kind of kinship with Jesus? John 3:16-21 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world: but that the world through Him might be saved. He that believeth on Him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. To hinder kinship with Jesus is to reject Him. To hear the truth of God's Word and refuse to believe it. To want the darkness and evil deeds more than to walk in the light and revelation of Jesus Christ. This will not only keep you out of the family of God, but it will give you permanent residence in hell for all of eternity.

It is through the love of Jesus that we are free and in kinship with Him. We are in His family. 1 John 3:1-2 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. How do we become the children of God? We must accept Jesus Christ. John 1:11-13 He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. Our responsibility in being in the family of God is to accept Jesus Christ, be washed in His blood, have our sins forgiven, and live our lives to please Him. And the greatest responsibility is to tell others about Jesus so they can be in the family of God, too. Matthew 28:18-20 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. 

I hope that you will be in relationship with God, enjoy friendship with God, and become a family member in kinship with God. You have the choice right now. If you are a part of God's family, have you invited your family and friends to be a part of God's family, too? Remember the Great Commission Jesus gave us in Matthew 28:18-20. We must tell them all. This weekend, as you encounter friends, family, acquaintances, and strangers, be sure to invite them to join Jesus in these three ships today! God bless you!

~Bridgett Owens

Psalm 22 | Wednesday Bible Study

We are in the book of Psalms all this year. I have learned so much from studying each psalm in depth with you all. Today we will look at Psalm 22. This particular psalm of David has 31 verses. We will break the verses down and study them collectively. If you have not read today’s passage, please take the time to do so. Pray and ask Holy Spirit to open your spiritual eyes and ears to see and hear what He wants to teach you.

Overview

This is considered the great messianic psalm. Jesus Christ fulfilled this psalm on the cross of Calvary. The first 21 verses depict the suffering, and the last verses in this text refer to the triumph of faith. Jesus is recorded quoting Psalm 22:1 in the New Testament.

Matthew 27:46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?

Mark 15:34 And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?

Verses 1-2

We are familiar with the first part of verse one. We remember these words of Jesus as He was on the cross paying the penalty for our sins. I cannot relate to that, but I can relate to the second half of verse one. When David says, "God You are so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring." Have you ever been there? Have you ever been crying out to God and begging Him to turn things around, and in desperation you seem to be roaring to God and He seems so far away? I know I have.

In verse two, it is relatable also, in that David is saying, "O my God, I cry in the daytime, but You do not hear me. In the night season, I am not silent." He is being raw and honest with God. In essence he is declaring, "God where are You? I am crying out. Nothing is changing. Nothing is getting better. Are You listening to me at all? Day and night I feel so far from You!" I have been there and it is tough.

Verses 3-5

David knows the key to getting God's attention. Yes, God knows our needs, and He hears our cries, but that does not move God. The Bible clearly tells us in order to please God we must have faith, and walk in the Spirit.

Romans 8:8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.

Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.

We need to remember what God has already done in our lives. Let's focus on what good and perfect gifts He has already given to us. David says, "But You are Holy." He starts to recall God's character. "You dwell in the praises of Your people." Israel is God's chosen people. He lives in those praises. He is in the middle of the praise and worship. He delights in our rejoicing in Him. 

David thinks about the forefathers that trusted in God and were helped. Maybe he was thinking about the miraculous story where God redeemed his great-grandmother Ruth. She was a pagan and abandoned that lifestyle to follow God. She found His favor in the field of Boaz, David's great-grandfather. Maybe he was thinking about Abraham, Moses, and Joshua. "They trusted You, God, and You delivered them." He is building his faith up because he is rehearsing the victories God had brought those that believed in Him. David says, "They cried to You, and were delivered. They trusted in You and were not confused."

Have you ever been confused about what to do? Are you praying for clarity and direction right now? 

James 1:5 If any you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

1 Corinthians 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.

Isaiah 30:21 And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.

Verses 6-8

David feels like he is lower than the earth. He says he is a worm, not a man. He feels like everyone is laughing at him and mocking him. They are ridiculing him, saying, "You trusted in God to deliver you, let Him deliver you, since you love Him so much." Maybe you feel like others are laughing at you. I remember when we moved back up to Indiana from Alabama, others mocked us, too. They said things like, "I thought God told you to move to Alabama. What did you do to deserve to come back here?" They had other mean things to say, too, about God not providing for us and doing things for us. Those words and comments hurt, especially when they were from people we loved and once had fellowship with. Yet, Jesus experienced the same ridicule on the cross. The same mockery. If God is Your Father, let Him save You. What a rude awakening they are in for!

Matthew 27:43 He trusted in God, let Him deliver Him now, if He will have Him: for He said, I am the Son of God.

Luke 23:35 And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with Him derided Him, saying, He saved others; let Him save Himself, if He be Christ, the Chosen of God.

The enemy never uses new techniques. These people were being used by Satan to hurl the same insults he used on Jesus in the wilderness in Matthew chapter four. "If He is who He says He is." This is how the devil tries to throw us off, too. He questions our salvation, our relationship with Jesus, and our commitment to Christ. Know Who you belong to and do not let the devil gain a foothold in your mind.

Verses 9-10

David once again turns his attention to God’s goodness. He says, “You are the God from my mother’s womb. You delivered me from the womb and gave me hope as an infant.” David recalls God’s hand always upon his life. God says this beautiful promise in the book of Isaiah.

Isaiah 46:3-5 Hearken unto Me, O house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, which are borne by Me from the belly, which are carried from the womb: And even to your old age I am He; and even to hoar (gray) hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you. To whom will you liken Me, and make Me equal, and compare Me, that we may be like?

God says He will carry us even after our hair is gray! What a sweet promise. There is no God like our God! No other idol, person, career, amount of money, or anything will ever be able to compare with our great God Jehovah!

Verses 11-18

David requests God to help him. He says, “I have no one to help me.” He goes on to describe the enemy coming against him. The enemy surrounds him, trying to devour him, to destroy him, and his physical strength to fight is gone. He feels like he is nearly dead. David says his enemies pierced his hands and feet. This is a comparison for David, but Jesus actually endured that. After He died and rose from the dead, Jesus said, this:

Luke 24:39 Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself: handle Me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see Me have.

Matthew 27:35 And they crucified Him, and parted His garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted My garments among them, and upon My vesture did they cast lots. 

David felt vulnerable and like everyone was staring at him. Jesus experienced multitudes staring at Him, too, as He hung on the cross. David foretold what Jesus would experience at Golgotha. 

Luke 23:27 And there followed Him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented Him.

Mark 15:24 And when they had crucified Him, they parted His garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take.

John 19:24 They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the Scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted My raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did.

Verses 19-21

David again asks God to be with him. He needs strength and he asks God to hurry to help. He is begging God to save his precious life from the adversary. I have been guilty of praying similar prayers. "God please hurry. Give us what You said we can have. We want it now. We need it now." Habakkuk wanted to know why God was not quick to punish the wicked for their evil acts. He starts in chapter one and asks God some hard questions. It seems brave to ask such pointed questions to God Almighty. In chapter two he says he will sit and wait for God to answer him. So God does and this what He said.

Habakkuk 2:2-4 And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.

Many people take verse two out of context. They say it means to make vision boards and basically tell God what our plans are for our life so He can make it happen for us. That is absolutely not what the Bible says to do here at all. The vision is coming to pass at a later time. The vision Habakkuk is to write is coming but it will not come when Habakkuk wants it to. God said, "Though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come." God ends this particular section of Scripture saying, "The just shall live by faith." That means we have to believe God is working things out. We have trust that even when nothing changes in the natural, things are being rearranged and moved around in the spiritual realm. God is working on our behalf to fulfill His plan for us in the earth. We must not be concerned more about what we want God to do for us, but rather what we can do for God while we are here on the earth.

Verses 22-31

David ends this psalm praising God. In verse 24 he says that God has heard the cries of the afflicted. We have hope that He hears us. In Hebrews it says this:

Hebrews 5:5-10 So also Christ glorified not Himself to be made an high priest; but He that said unto Him, Thou art My Son, to day have I begotten Thee. As He saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedec. Who in the days of His flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto Him that was able to save Him from death, and was heard in that He  feared; Though He were a Son, yet learned He obedience by the things which He suffered; And being made perfect, He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him; Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchizedec.

David says in verse 27, “All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD.” In verse 28, he says, “For the Kingdom is the LORD’s: and He is the governor among the nations.” We know that God is in control and one day we all will bow the knee and confess Jesus is LORD! In closing he adds, “They shall come, and shall declare His righteousness unto a people that shall be born, that He hath done this.” We are the people that shall be born and now we have an obligation to share with our children and their children and their children’s children about the goodness and Sovereignty of God!

I hope you have been blessed today. I know it’s actually Thursday when I am sharing this. I was under the weather and unable to post. But today you get two posts! I will share my Thankful Thursday post today as well. 

No matter how bad things seem to be right now, encourage yourself and build your faith on remembering how good God is. He will take you through these rough days and better times are coming. God bless you friend.

~Bridgett Owens

Psalm 20 | Wednesday Bible Study

 

Hello friends. Welcome back to another Wednesday Bible Study. We are continuing our series through the book of Psalms this year and we are in Psalm 20 today. It is a short chapter, only nine verses. This is another psalm of David. If you have not taken the time to read today's passage, please do so. Pray and ask Holy Spirit to open your spiritual eyes and ears to see and hear what He wants to teach us. Let's allow Him to plant this precious Word in the fertile soil of our hearts. As I typically do, today I will break the verses down and share what God is giving me to share with all of you.

Verses 1-4

David begins this chapter, in the first three verses, telling us about God. He says this:

1. God hears us in times of trouble.

2. By His name He defends us.

3. He will send us help.

4. God will strengthen us.

5. He will remember what we offer Him.

6. He accepts our burnt sacrifices.

7. He will grant our heart's desire.

8. God will fulfill our purpose, or another version says He will make our plans succeed.

In verse three, it tells us to pause and think about that. I think this is a great time to stop and reflect on all of these things. How many of us can honestly say that we have experienced these blessings as we walk with our Savior, Jesus? I know that I can look back over my life and see God doing all of these things for me. I have not offered burnt sacrifices but I have sacrificed as much as He told me to do.

Verse 5

What will we do about this knowledge of what God is doing for us, has done, and will continue to do? David says we will rejoice and set up our banners. We will praise God and lift up the banner proclaiming He is our Savior. Then in this same verse it says, The LORD will answer all our prayers. What a promise! What encouragement! This is awesome!

Verse 6

Now David is convinced and has confidence that God will save His anointed people. He will hear our cries from His Holy heaven and will save us with the strength of His right hand. Isn't this such a rich message today? We know God is listening to us, answering our prayers, helping us and delivering us in the day of our distress and times of trouble! What peace that comes from knowing that!

Verse 7

I was walking last night and I was praying; just asking God for an increase of faith and wisdom about some things He told me. My life was not matching up with what He said and I know that life is crazy and God is never wrong, so I needed Him to help me make sense of some things. It is not something I can understand in the natural with logic and reasoning. I said this as I was walking, "I will not trust in chariots, or horses, because I know You are with me and will deliver me with Your righteous right hand." And when I read this verse I had such joy in my soul because I did not know this verse was going to be in this particular chapter that I would be studying with you all today.

Isaiah 31:1 Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay (rely) on horses, and trust in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD! In Isaiah we see that God says woe to them who trust in the strength and force of other humans and things that seem like they are secure. Why? They are not looking to God, the Holy One of Israel to fight their battles and bring them victory.

It may seem scary when we see the enemy in great numbers against us. We may not be popular because of our faith and morals, but God gives us a word of encouragement in Deuteronomy. He tells us not to be afraid of them. Deuteronomy 20:1 When thou goest out to battle against thine enemies, and seest horses, and chariots, and a people more than thou, be not afraid of them: for the LORD thy God is with thee, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt. We do not need to fear because God is with us and He has delivered us from trouble and distress before.

Verse 8

The things the world puts all their trust in will be brought down and fall. We will rise and stand because God is with us and He cares about us. Romans 8:31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? Isaiah 54:17 No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of Me, saith the LORD.

Why would God do this for His children? Hebrews 6:10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward His name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. Keep working for God and keep honoring His name. He will not forget the things we give up, sacrifice, or let go of for the cause of Christ. He will not forget the work we do in love to further His Kingdom on this earth.

Verse 9

David ends the chapter with hope. "Save LORD! May the King answer us when we call." He will absolutely answer us when we call and I am so thankful for that.

I have been strengthened and encouraged with today's Bible study. I hope that you are blessed and encouraged as well. It is my prayer that something you read on this blog today has been strength for your journey and light for your way. God bless you!

~Bridgett Owens