 |
| NewTribesMission Bible in pictures these pictures in my office remind me of the money, God's word in the lives of people and dreams we have for the children we love. |
Money invested in God's plan
The magi traveled a long distance to give expensive gifts in worship to the King of the Jews at his birth (Matthew 2:1-11). God warned them in a dream not to return to Herod (Matthew 2:12). An angel of the Lord also warned Joseph to flee to Egypt and when it was safe to return (Matthew 2:14-23).
Money as golden handcuffs making it impossible for rich men to enter heaven
The rich young ruler bowed to Jesus asking "what must I do to be saved?" Jesus gave this proud man the law of Moses. When Jesus answered give your money to the poor and follow me, he left deeply sad because of his great wealth. Jesus then taught it's impossible for a rich man to enter heaven. The disciples recognized that everyone views himself as wealthy and asked: "who then can be saved?" Jesus said with man it's impossible but with God all things are possible (Mark 10:17-27). The parable of sower Jesus said the deceitfulness of wealth causes God's word to be unproductive in a person life (Matthew 13:22).
Money completely wasted in order to save one person
A demon possessed man is freed from demonic oppression when Jesus sends a legion of demons into 2,000 pigs. The townspeople were afraid and having lost a fortune in pigs asked Jesus to go away (Mark 1:1-20,17).
God's word makes the prisoner savior to his capture
Paul and Silas are in jail because they healed a demon-possessed girl who made money for her owner. They freed her even though she was "helping" them. Even after beatings they praised God, and earthquake freed them and they used their freedom to save the suicidal guard and his household (Acts 16:16-40).
God's word is like a seed scattered by a farmer.
It only takes root and produces fruit when it takes root in the good ground (Luke 8:4-15). Never underestimate the power of God’s Word to change a person’s heart
God's word comes to people who least expect it, saving sinners
The woman at the well John 4:4-42, Jesus ministers to the Samaritan woman at the well
Dreams that guide relationships and give warnings
Joseph dreamed to keep Mary as wife and that the child was conceived by the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:20). Some dreams matter and we know when they occur (dreams).
Dreams given in children
Jesus said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them. Children are "good soil" when they receive the gospel and trust God. (Mark 10:13-16)
Dreams given to people who wait their whole life to see it
Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:
“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
you may now dismiss your servant in peace.
For my eyes have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:
a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and the glory of your people Israel.”
The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”
There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. (Luke 2:25-38)
