How can we know we are "repenting" (Malachi 3:6-7)

"I the Lord do not change...Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty." Malachi 3:6-7

God uses material faithfulness as the proving ground for spiritual trust and formation. The themes flow from covenant to conduct to consequence.

1. God's unchanging covenant is the foundation God's faithfulness is not reactive. It is predetermined and rooted in His promises to Jacob (Mal. 3:6; Rom. 11:28–29). Israel's survival is not due to performance but covenantal commitment (Deut. 7:9; Lam. 3:22–23). This establishes trust. Return is always possible because God does not change (Mal. 3:6; Heb. 13:8).

2. Return to God is expressed through tangible obedience "Return to me" is not abstract (Mal. 3:7). It is demonstrated through tithes, offerings, and stewardship (Mal. 3:8–10). Withholding is framed as distrust and misalignment with God's order. Giving becomes a diagnostic of the heart (Matt. 6:21; Luke 16:10–11).

3. Stewardship reveals spiritual alignment Material resources are positioned as "very little" (Luke 16:10). Yet they expose deeper loyalties (Luke 16:11–12). Faithfulness in money equals faithfulness in trust. Mismanagement signals divided allegiance. You cannot serve both God and money (Luke 16:13; Matt. 6:24).

4. God invites testing in one domain to build trust in all domains Malachi presents a rare invitation. Test God through obedience in giving (Mal. 3:10). The outcome is provision, protection, and overflow (Mal. 3:10–11; Phil. 4:19). This is not transactional prosperity. It is relational validation of trust (John 14:21; James 2:18).

5. Blessing includes provision, protection, and public witness The "windows of heaven" represent sufficiency (Mal. 3:10; Ps. 78:23–24). The "rebuked devourer" represents protection from loss (Mal. 3:11). The result is external credibility. Others recognize God's favor (Mal. 3:12; Matt. 5:16). The community becomes a signal.

6. Tithing trains the fear of the Lord Deuteronomy clarifies intent (Deut. 14:22–23). Giving is formative, not merely financial. It teaches reverence, dependence, and worship. The outcome is wisdom, knowledge, and understanding (Prov. 9:10; Ps. 111:10). Fear of the Lord is the gateway to all three (Job 28:28; Isa. 33:6).

7. Generosity is designed to sustain community and justice Provision extends beyond the giver. Levites, foreigners, widows, and the fatherless are included (Deut. 14:28–29; Mal. 3:5). This embeds equity into the system (Lev. 19:9–10; Amos 5:24). Kingdom economics are communal, not individualistic (Acts 2:44–45; 2 Cor. 8:13–15).

8. True riches are spiritual, not material Jesus reframes value. Money is "unrighteous wealth" (Luke 16:11). True riches are the life of the Spirit. Righteousness, peace, joy, wisdom, and empowerment (Rom. 14:17; 1 Cor. 1:30; Eph. 1:3). Material trust is preparation for spiritual entrustment (Luke 16:11–12; 1 Tim. 6:17–19).

9. Faith is developed through constraint before abundance "Very little" is intentional (Luke 16:10). It is the training environment. Trusting God in scarcity builds capacity for abundance (Deut. 8:2–3; 2 Cor. 9:8). This aligns with Paul's learned contentment across all conditions (Phil. 4:11–13; Heb. 13:5).

10. The end goal is Spirit-enabled purpose and impact The Holy Spirit brings wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, and knowledge (Isa. 11:2; 1 Cor. 12:7–11). These enable God's work through people. Like Bezalel, individuals are empowered for specific kingdom assignments (Exod. 31:3–5). Faithful stewardship unlocks participation in that work (Matt. 25:21; Eph. 2:10).

---

In summary, the passage teaches a progression. Covenant leads to trust (Mal. 3:6; Rom. 8:28). Trust is proven through stewardship (Luke 16:10–12). Stewardship forms reverence (Deut. 14:23). Reverence unlocks wisdom and Spirit-led living (Prov. 9:10; Isa. 11:2). Material faithfulness becomes the gateway to true spiritual riches (Luke 16:11; Eph. 1:3).

Read More ->>

Limitless Forgiveness (Matthew 18:21-22)

Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven! - Matthew 18:21-22

Jesus teaches that forgiveness has no cap. Peter wanted a rule. Jesus wanted a heart. Forgive without keeping score.

Why it matters

• True forgiveness reflects God’s character (Matthew 18:35).

• God forgave us at infinite cost, so we forgive freely (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13).

• Unforgiveness traps us emotionally. It becomes a prison.

• A forgiven heart releases grudges and restores peace (Romans 5:1).

What Jesus meant

• “Seventy times seven” is not a math problem. It is a mindset.

• Forgiveness is an attitude before it is an action.

• When your heart is surrendered, you can forgive the eighth time as easily as the first.

• Nothing justifies clinging to an unforgiving spirit.

Broader Biblical reinforcement

• God forgives lavishly and repeatedly (Psalm 103:8–12).

• Love “keeps no record of wrongs” (1 Corinthians 13:5).

• We are called to restore gently, not retaliate (Galatians 6:1).

• Mercy triumphs over judgment (James 2:13).

• Bear with each other and forgive as the Lord forgave you (Colossians 3:13).

• If we do not forgive others, we block our own freedom (Matthew 6:14–15).

Spirit of the teaching
Forgiveness restores wholeness. It repairs relationships. It mirrors the grace God pours into us. A heart ready to forgive is a heart aligned with the Kingdom.

Reflection prompt
Who needs forgiveness from you today? What freedom would it create in your soul if you released the record of wrongs?

Closing quote
“He who cannot forgive breaks the bridge over which he himself must pass.” —George Herbert

This was a repost from here: Jesus prescribes limitless readiness to forgive from the heart (Matthew 18:21-22), 

Read More ->>

Crowns of reward for those who lovingly trust in Christ Jesus

BSF lesson 9 on Rev 4:2-6 talks about John's vision of God on His throne. We see each elder dressed in white (purity), wearing a crown of gold (victory in Christ. All believers are promised pure white garments of righteousness, crowns of reward and glory in Christ. 

• Unapproachable light: 1 Timothy 6:16
• Heavenly rewards: 2 Timothy 4:7-8; James 1:12; 1 Peter 5:4; Revelation 19:7-8
• Mount Sinai: Exodus 19:16
• Fear of God: Exodus 19:17-19; 20:18-21; Deuteronomy 5:23-27
• Mercy and access: Romans 5:1-2; Hebrews 4:14-16
• Seven: Leviticus 25:8-9; 1 Samuel 2:5; Zechariah 4:10; Revelation 1:4; 3:1
• Spirit of the Lord: Isaiah 11:2 

Kim and I were talking about the "types of crowns" and found this great resource in Got Questions (This also makes me think about the helmet of salvation. We win the battle of the mind (Eph 6:17), when we see God has already fought our battle. Lord God is "clothed" in righteousness, bringing justice and salvation for his own. Isaiah 59:17; The Lord put on righteousness as his armor, wore the helmet of salvation and clothed himself with robe of vengeance and wrapped himself in a cloak of divine passion (to bring justice). Isaiah 61:10; Overwhelming joy in the Lord God! He dressed me with clothing of salvation and a robe of righteousness. Isaiah 63:1-3 The Lord's clothing stained red, announcing your salvation - the Lord has power to save! (Revelation 19:13)

James tells us that this crown of life is for all those who love God (James 1:12). The question then is how do we demonstrate our love for God? The apostle John answers this for us: “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome” (1 John 5:3). As His children we must keep His commandments, obeying Him, always remaining faithful. So, as we endure the inevitable trials, pains, heartaches, and tribulations—as long as we live—may we ever move forward, always “looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2) and receive the crown of life that awaits us.

1) The Imperishable Crown – (1 Corinthians 9:24-25) “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate [disciplined] in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown” (NKJV). All things on this earth are subject to decay and will perish. Jesus urges us to not store our treasures on earth “where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal” (Matthew 6:19). This is analogous to what Paul was saying about that wreath of leaves that was soon to turn brittle and fall apart. But not so the heavenly crown; faithful endurance wins a heavenly reward which is “an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:4).

2) The Crown of Rejoicing – (1 Thessalonians 2:19) “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?” The apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:4 to “rejoice always in the Lord” for all the bountiful blessings our gracious God has showered upon us. As Christians we have more in this life to rejoice about than anyone else. Luke tells us there is rejoicing even now in heaven (Luke 15:7). The crown of rejoicing will be our reward where “God will wipe away every tear . . . there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4).

3) The Crown of Righteousness – (2 Timothy 4:8) “Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” We inherit this crown through the righteousness of Christ which is what gives us a right to it, and without which it cannot be obtained. Because it is obtained and possessed in a righteous way, and not by force and deceit as earthly crowns sometimes are, it is an everlasting crown, promised to all who love the Lord and eagerly wait for His return. Through our enduring discouragements, persecutions, sufferings, or even death, we know assuredly our reward is with Christ in eternity (Philippians 3:20). This crown is not for those who depend upon their own sense of righteousness or of their own works. Such an attitude breeds only arrogance and pride, not a longing, a fervent desire to be with the Lord.

4) The Crown of Glory – (1 Peter 5:4) “And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.” Though Peter is addressing the elders, we must also remember that the crown will be awarded to all those who long for or love His appearing. This word “glory” is an interesting word referring to the very nature of God and His actions. It entails His great splendor and brightness. Recall Stephen who, while being stoned to death, was able to look into the heavens and see the glory of God (Acts 7:55-56). This word also means that the praise and honor we bestow to God alone is due Him because of who He is (Isaiah 42:8, 48:11; Galatians 1:5). It also recognizes that believers are incredibly blessed to enter into the kingdom, into the very likeness of Christ Himself. For as Paul so eloquently put it, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18 NKJV).

5) The Crown of Life – (Revelation 2:10) “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” This crown is for all believers, but is especially dear to those who endure sufferings, who bravely confront persecution for Jesus, even to the point of death. In Scripture the word “life” is often used to show a relationship that is right with God. It was Jesus who said, “I have come that they may have life and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). Just as things such as air, food, and water are vital for our physical lives, Jesus provides us what is required for our spiritual lives. He is the One who provides “living water.” He is the “bread of life” (John 4:10, 6:35). We know that our earthly lives will end. But we have the amazing promise that comes only to those who come to God through Jesus: “And this is the promise that He has promised us—eternal life” (1 John 2:25).

Read More ->>

Leaders unyoked to God, ruin generations by greed and dishonesty (Jeremiah 5:1-6:21, Matthew 11:28-30)

key verse;

So I will go and speak to their leaders. Surely they know the ways of the Lord and understand God’s laws.” But the leaders, too, as one man, had thrown off God’s yoke and broken his chains. Jer 5:5

“From the least to the greatest, their lives are ruled by greed. From prophets to priests, they are all frauds. They offer superficial treatments for my people’s mortal wound. They give assurances of peace when there is no peace. Are they ashamed of their disgusting actions? Not at all—they don’t even know how to blush! Therefore, they will lie among the slaughtered. They will be brought down when I punish them,” says the Lord. This is what the Lord says:“Stop at the crossroads and look around. Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it. Travel its path, and you will find rest for your souls. But you reply, ‘No, that’s not the road we want!’ Jer 6:13-16

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matt 11:28-30

 Jeremiah 5:1-6:21

A) God sees our dishonest heart attitude

5:1-3) LORD, no one is honest, not paying attention, refusing correction/repentance

4-6) Poor ignorant of God's ways/laws, leaders thrown off God's yoke - bringing beasts, rebellion/sins many

• My yoke is easy, burden is light Matt 11:28-30

7-9) Pardon your family? Idolatry, adultery, covetous - I should avenge myself.

10-13) destroy grapevines, they don't belong to LORD - treachery, lied about consequences, didn't listen to God's prophets

14-17) LORD "Mighty foreigners, unknown language, mighty, devour, destroy all you have"

18-19) Yet, you will live under them because you 'gave yourself to foreign gods'

B) Warning for God's People who rejected God's way

20-25) Senseless, don't see, hear, don't respect presence/boundaries, stubborn/rebellious hearts - turned away, abandoned God, impure heart, wickedness deprives blessing, sin robbed of good things

26-31) Wicked, set traps for people, evil unlimited plots for wealth, refuse justice to orphans, deny rights of poor - they like false prophets, priest iron hand,  

6:1-5) Run for your lives, disaster, destruction, enemies about to devour you

6-9) Prepare for battle, city is wicked - punished, obvious listen to warning, everyone accounted for

10-15) No one listens, ruled by greed, prophets/priest are frauds, superficial treatment of mortal wounds, speak false peace to their destruction 

16-21) Stop, decide path of godly and find rest for your souls, all nations, fruit of schemes, rejecting God's word is disaster. Sacrifices are not pleasing to God. 

• Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matt 11:29

Read More ->>

It's wise to understand our unconscious bias (Proverbs 24:23)

People sometimes avoid popular psychology and training. For instance "unconscious bias" has been a focus for many at work to help people realize the preference towards hiring and promoting people who look, talk and act like ourselves. More importantly, unconscious biases are happening outside our own conscious awareness and show up as "isms" - racism, sexism, agism. They develop as we start seeing what we look for as "confirmation bias" and people behave as expected "conformity bias." I came across Proverbs 24:23 the other day and did a double-take. It says,

"Here are some further sayings of the wise: It is wrong to show favoritism (partiality) when passing judgment."

Partiality is unfair bias in favor of one thing or person compared with another; favoritism. Another word is prejudice or partisanship. 

This is repeated in other scriptures;

• To show partiality is not good, yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread - Proverbs 28:21
• Showing partiality to the wicked is not good, nor is depriving the innocent of justice. - Proverbs 18:5

Wisdom observes, understands the lovingkindness of the Lord - Psalm 107:43

• Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you. Proverbs 11:17
• Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, 1 Corinthians 13:4 

Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the LORD are true and right, and righteous people live by walking in them. But in those paths sinners stumble and fall. - Hosea 14:9

 - This verse came to me days ago and I recognized it as being important for me in God's desire for us is salvation in relationship with him (Hosea 13-14)

Thanksgiving and recognition of God's loving-kindness is the root of all healing (Psalm 118:1-4).  

Read More ->>

Criminal justice reform increases public safety through moral rehabilitation

Getting ready for Outrageous Justice that I'm hosting at my work's BRN SALT network. Taking the challenge to become a Justice Reform Advocate. 

Criminal justice reform increases public safety through moral rehabilitation. Local government hears our voice when regular citizens embrace a restorative, values-based framework. Join me in learning more and find out specific steps you can take at prisonfellowship.org. Help us transform the criminal justice process into one that restores. A criminal justice process that gives genuine opportunities to make amends and pursue moral rehabilitation.

From What the spike in murder rates means for criminal justice reform by Craig DeRoche  | May 20, 2016 12:04 AM

Without investment in education or moral rehabilitation, "correctional facilities" often don't correct or restore those who serve time. For too long, taxpayers have shouldered the cost of the fastest-growing area of government and greatest increase of centralized state power in America's history outside of healthcare. 

• Offenders return to the same behaviors or worse
• System underperformance; Law enforcement in the era of over-criminalization and over-incarceration has left them over-extended and under-resourced.
• Inefficient, costly system that fails to serve the public interest.
• Law enforcement officers can be freed up to solve serious crimes and take dangerous people off the streets.

What's needed now is not a return to the past, but a fresh vision for criminal justice. A restorative, values-based framework, advocated for by Prison Fellowship and many of its peers, is gaining consensus at the state and national levels.

• A restorative approach to justice reform is based on the inherent value and dignity of each person impacted by crime and incarceration. 

The goal of criminal justice reform is to increase public safety. 

• We become safer when correctional facilities are environments where those who regret their crimes have genuine opportunities to make amends and pursue moral rehabilitation.  

Read More ->>

Outrageous Justice invitation

God calls His people to seek justice. But given the complexities of our criminal justice system, how can the followers of Jesus have a clear understanding of criminal justice issues and take action to promote peace and restoration?

To that end, Prison Fellowship® is excited to release the Outrageous Justice small-group curriculum, designed to awaken Christians to the need for justice that restores. Small groups will learn about the challenges in the American criminal justice system and explore how Christians can respond in hands-on ways to pursue justice and bring about true hope, restoration, and healing.

 About: https://www.prisonfellowship.org/about/justicereform/landing-pages/outrageous-justice/

 

OUTRAGEOUS JUSTICE STUDY GUIDE. Videos and Action Steps

 

Event Schedule	Topic	Subtopic
1/14/2021	OUTRAGEOUS JUSTICE	JUSTICE THAT RESTORES
2/4/2021	OUTRAGEOUS JUSTICE	JUSTICE THAT RESPONDS
2/25/2021	OUTRAGEOUS JUSTICE	JUSTICE THAT LISTENS
3/18/2021	OUTRAGEOUS JUSTICE	JUSTICE THAT FITS
4/8/2021	OUTRAGEOUS JUSTICE	JUSTICE THAT TRANSFORMS
4/29/2021	OUTRAGEOUS JUSTICE	JUSTICE THAT REDEEMS

Read More ->>

Abram demonstrates living by faith, Lot and Sodom a lifestyle of disaster (Gen 13-14)

Gen 13-14

Main Truth: Living with God brings true blessing, freedom, and friendship

A) Abram stays with God while Lot separates to Sodom (Gen 13)

13:1-4) wealthy Abram, moves from Egypt to Negev

3-4) between Bethel and Ai, the altar (Gen 12:7) he called on the name of Lord.

 - Calling on the name of the Lord is central to our faith (Gen 4:26, Romans 10:13, Acts 2:21)

 - Wisdom is understanding the will of the Lord and sacrifice (altar) are linked (Eph 5:15-17, Romans 12:1-2) leading us to honest humility (Romans 12:3)

5-7) wealthy Lot's herdsmen quarrel - land can't support them w/ Canaanites and Perizzites

8-9) Abram to Lot, don't quarrel, separate you choose

 - Wisdom and grace from calling on the name of the Lord (James 1:5, 3:17; Proverbs 3:13-18)

10-13) Abram Canann, Lot well-watered land east of Jordan, near Sodom - wicked, sinning people

14-17) Lord said Abram everything seen for your offspring, uncountable, so walk the land

18) Abram near great trees of Mamre, Hebron built altar to Lord

• What do Abram’s and Lot’s actions tell you about what they loved most?

• In what situation could you set aside selfish demands and respond with God’s grace?

Principle: God’s grace in us blesses others.

B) Abram rescues Lot defeating vast armies with few men (Genesis 14:1-16)

14:1-4) four kings war with Bera of Sodom, Birsha of Gomorrah + three others, 12 years subjects of Elam - 13th year rebelled. 

5-7) 14th year Elam's king defeated them conquered whole territory Amalekites, Amorites

8-12) In the battle King's of Sodom, Gomorrah fled, winners carried away food, possessions including Lot (who lived in Sodom). 

13-16) Escaped man told Abram the Hebrew, took 318 men pursued, attacked at night recovered everything and brought Lot back

C) Melchizedek and Abram give glory to God for victory (Gen 17-24) 

17-21) King of Sodom offers good in exchange for people and Melchizedek king of Salem bread, wine, blessing, and praise to God

 - Abram gives Melchizedek 1/10 of everything (Heb 7:4)

 - Tithe, what God gives return 1/10 (Gen 28:22) All from the land is God's (Lev 27:30-32), annual tithe (Deut 14:22) but every third year give it the Levite, foreigner, fatherless, widow (Deut 26:12)

 - Justice and love of  God must be first, yet don't neglect the tithe (Luke 11:42; Malachi 3:10)

22-24) to King of Sodom, I've sworn oath to LORD, God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, I won't accept anything belonging to you. You can never say I made Abram rich, let others have share.

• How do you see God’s grace at work through Abram to do good for many?

• How is God equipping you for spiritual battle in your life and others’ lives?

Principle: God’s grace equips us for spiritual victory.

Read Genesis 14:17-24.

Abram meets with Melchizedek and Sodom’s king.

• In what ways does the Bible say Melchizedek anticipates the person of Jesus Christ?

• How have you seen God’s grace (undeserved favor) in your life this week?

Principle: By God’s grace, Jesus is our priest and King.

Review Genesis 13-14.

• What from this week’s lesson is most impactful to you?

Main truth: The right response to God’s grace is thanksgiving and worship.

Scripture Memory Verse

“Go, walk through the length and breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you.” – Genesis 13:17

Read More ->>

Understanding Federal Department of Justice (DOJ)

 I'm finishing my AdvocacyVolunteerToolkit from Prison Fellowship today. Learning about the growth in prisons, prison budgets and how we arrived with the system of justice we have. I started this training after George Floyd but the ensuing riots have me thinking that people will want "harsher" treatment of criminal activity, not more understanding mental health based corrections. Here's what I've learned:

Drug trafficking offense makes up 50% of the 190,000 inmates in federal. While budgets for the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is up to 7 billion annually (more than a quarter of DOJ's budget) capacity is about 50% over-capacity, dangerous for both prisoners and staff. About half of BOP population is housed over 250 miles from home, making it very difficult for prisoners to remain in touch with family. The Charles Colson Task Force on Federal Corrections found that the quality and availability of rehabilitative programs in federal facilities vary widely. More that 60,000 people are released from federal prison each year. 

 - Reminds me of a TV show locked up abroad, it can always be worse - but USA has gotten crazy. My nephew told me about his dad being in jail and the family would go to visit him there in Africa. While terrible it seemed to be more open.

Prison Fellowship federal legislative agenda: Federal sentencing, expanded prison programming and earned time credits, support for post-release reentry programs.

The Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act seeks to ensure that punishments are proportionate.  By reducing mandatory minimums in some cases, and granting judges more flexibility in sentencing, the proposed changes will make the criminal justice system more efficient, more effective, and more fair.

 

Read More ->>

Justice That Restores (The Lord is my shepherd...He restores my soul Psalm 23)

Over the past month, I've gotten involved with Prison Fellowship. I wanted to invite you to a six-week study to learn about the criminal justice system and the potential for reform from a Christian perspective. This is a "no homework" study, 6-7:15 pm every Wednesday evening via Zoom, starting July 15th. Each session will have a 20-minute video followed by a group discussion. I like this study because they have small, medium, large action steps after each session. 

1. JUSTICE THAT RESTORES, 7/15, 6-7:15 pm

2. JUSTICE THAT RESPONDS, 7/22, 6-7:15 pm

3. JUSTICE THAT LISTENS, 7/29, 6-7:15 pm

4. JUSTICE THAT FITS, 8/5, 6-7:15 pm

5. JUSTICE THAT TRANSFORMS, 8/12, 6-7:15 pm

6. JUSTICE THAT REDEEMS, 8/19, 6-7:15 pm

Memory Verse:
A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. —Isaiah 42:3-4, Matthew 12:19,20-21
 - I added Psalm 23:1,3 to see "Restores" within the Bible. Psalm 23 is the second most looked up Bible verse on Google (second to John 3:16-21)

Open:
Is there something you have seen in the news, or an incident that happened to you or a friend, that has made you second-guess justice in America?
 - George Floyd, Breonna Taylor
Tell about a time when you felt you were unfairly punished by a parent, teacher, or boss. What happened? How did that feel?
 - shocking, humiliating, thinking about it makes my heart beat faster even now.

Readings:

• But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. Romans 3:21-24 NIV
• “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” - Luke 4:18-19 NIV

Respond:
1. In the video, you heard the story of Marlyn, a mom who ended up in jail because she didn’t have $200 to pay a traffic ticket. How do you think a person’s economic status affects their interactions with the justice system?
 - The poorer the person the greater the perception as wayward and deviant. It's not just wealth but what one does with their wealth that adds to the perception (taking the day off work, getting intoxicated, not supporting themselves). 

2. In the video, Craig said that even though we’re created in the image of God and loved by God, we all fall short. The Romans 3 passage echoes this same truth. What does it mean to “fall short”? What are some ways that ordinary people often fall short?

 - Falling short is missing the mark or not crossing the finish line. I thought of this as praying to God for the courage to forgive someone, then once given courage you decide it's "done" and don't give that person the forgiveness. This is because the world says forgiveness is "to no longer be angry" but the Bible says “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). 

3.a) In the video, Craig said, “What we call the problems in our culture are actually our solutions. …To take a violent act against another human being is to solve for the problem of fear, jealousy, or anger. To divorce our wife, to lie or get drunk, is the solution to the problems that are within us.” In other words, we try to solve our problems by acting out. What we think is the “solution ultimately causes pain for ourselves and others.” Tell about a time when you tried to solve a problem in a way that made things worse.

 - Interventions that require broader collaboration or skills I don't have. In my impatience, I try to do it alone.  The end results leave property more damaged than before (or "half-done") and drifting/damaged relationships. 

3.b) What does Romans 3:21-24 say about how we can attain righteousness? In other words, how can we satisfy God’s justice and be made right with Him? (Romans 3:22)

 - God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ's redemption, it's the gift of God given to all who believe (trust and acknowledge God's Son). AMP Bible, "But now the righteousness of God has been clearly revealed [independently and completely] apart from the Law, though it is [actually] confirmed by the Law and the [words and writings of the] Prophets. This righteousness of God comes through faith in Jesus Christ for all those [Jew or Gentile] who believe [and trust in Him and acknowledge Him as God’s Son]. There is no distinction, since all have sinned and continually fall short of the glory of God, and are being justified [declared free of the guilt of sin, made acceptable to God, and granted eternal life] as a gift by His [precious, undeserved] grace, through the redemption [the payment for our sin] which is [provided] in Christ Jesus,"

4) What does it mean to be “justified freely by grace”? (Romans 3:24)

I like the AMP version: 

being justified [declared free of the guilt of sin, made acceptable to God, and granted eternal life] as a gift by His [precious, undeserved] grace, through the redemption [the payment for our sin] which is [provided] in Christ Jesus,"

MSG version:

But in our time something new has been added. What Moses and the prophets witnessed to all those years has happened. The God-setting-things-right that we read about has become Jesus-setting-things-right for us. And not only for us, but for everyone who believes in him. For there is no difference between us and them in this. Since we’ve compiled this long and sorry record as sinners (both us and them) and proved that we are utterly incapable of living the glorious lives God wills for us, God did it for us. Out of sheer generosity, he put us in right standing with himself. A pure gift. He got us out of the mess we’re in and restored us to where he always wanted us to be. And he did it by means of Jesus Christ.

5) Through the prophet Isaiah, God told His people that He “loves justice” but “hates wrongdoing (robbery and iniquity)” (see Isaiah 61:8, quoted at the opening of this session). God offers grace but hates wrongdoing and crime. Is this inconsistent? How do these two ideas fit together?

 - Justice is the plumb line, wrongdoing is everything else. "Do Justice (Micah 6:8)", God did this (grace) for all who believe. 2 Cor 5:19: 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s trespasses against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God

 - Justice Defined:  1. The state or characteristic of being just or fair. 2. The ideal of fairness, impartiality, etc., especially with regard to the punishment of wrongdoing. 3. Judgment and punishment of a party who has allegedly wronged another.

 - Wrongdoing Defined: 1. uncountable Violation of standards of behavior. 2. countable An instance of doing wrong.

Countable Example Robbery:

-  Robbery Define: The offense of taking or attempting to take the property of another by force or threat of force.

Uncountable Example Iniquity

 - Iniquity Defined: 1. Deviation from what is right; wickedness, gross injustice. 2. An unfair act or unconscionable deed. 3. Hostility, malevolence, lawlessness.

6) In Luke 4, Jesus is reading aloud from the Old Testament prophet Isaiah, not only to define His mission, but to make it clear to His listeners that He was the Messiah. Looking at His words, what do you think He would say to the children of incarcerated parents? Or the parents of incarcerated young people? 

 - Jesus would say, you can have freedom with me and you can bring that freedom to your family. Jesus is one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead. To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name. (Acts 10:1-11:18 shows example of this with Cornelious and Peter). 

7) I've been to Lino Lakes, St. Cloud, and Mooselake visiting friends and family.

8) Jesus mentions the poor, the prisoners, the blind, and the oppressed. What does Jesus say He will do for each of these groups? How do these groups overlap? As Jesus’ followers, what are some practical ways we can continue His mission? 

 - Proclaim (announce, declare) good news, freedom, recovery of sight, set free, year of the Lord's favor.

 - Receive and apply these messages to my heart, mind, and soul. Then find ways to speak into their lives, build relationships with them, and proclaim the truth of Jesus. 

Read More ->>

Wisdom is recognizing we are inadequate without God (1 Kings 3:1-28)

Wisdom gives ability to meet needs, invite others to Godliness, and advocates for justice.

1 Kings 3:1, Solomon married Pharaoh daughter, worshiped God and other gods (1 Kings 3:2-4)

He talks with God in a dream, God asked what do want. As an inadequate leader, Solomon asks for wisdom and God grants his wish and more (1 Kings 3:5-15).

 - he didn't ask fior a platform, or honour. 

1 Kings 3:16-28

Wise guy

 - What defines wisdom? Wisdom is the ability to have understanding mind for leadership to discern good from evil. Wisdom gives discernment in the context of conflict, to make decisions. Wisdom gives us an uncommon way of thinking. 

 - How does Solemn point to Christ? He didn't see the prostitutes as they were,  but as they could be mothers. Wisdom allows us to lead in a way that points to Christ. 

When all Israel heard the king’s decision, the people were in awe of the king, for they saw the wisdom God had given him for rendering justice.

1 Kings 3:28 NLT

Wisdom speaks of God's glory, advocates for justice. 

Wisdom allows us to love while we wait for God to administer the justice 

Read More ->>

The Most High doesn’t live in temples made by human hands (Acts 7:48, Isaiah 66:1-5)

I've been in "a mood" from hearing that my Friend will not be able to participate in ministry with me. He's disqualified himself via past choices, however, I firmly believe it would be good for him to join me. As God often does, he brings the right counsel at the perfect time to help me through my "moods" and brings me into clarity. It is well with my soul. Thank you Lord. I can hardly believe it but this is my first post with the tag, "Rejection" - it's not the first rejection, but surprising to me I haven't touched on it sooner - must be my positive disposition.

In the title LORD Most High, the Hebrew words are Elohim Yahweh. We describe objects of exaltation as being “higher” than we are: higher in rank, in title, in beauty, in position, or in intelligence. Even authority is referred to in terms of height, from top-level management down to the common worker. Height conveys the idea of superiority in power, strength, and authority. So God Most High or LORD Most High means that there is no god, idol, or created being that should be worshiped or exalted above Yahweh, the LORD, because He is superior in every way. - Why is God described as God Most High?
 - Lord you are my God, and I will every praise you alone.

In Acts 7 Stephen is warning the people who are mistaken in their religion, he does this through the teaching of the prophets in the power of the Holy Spirit. Acts 7:2,3-55,51,55

https://biblehub.com/isaiah/66-4.htm is a great resource.
Good News Translation
So I will bring disaster upon them--the very things they are afraid of--because no one answered when I called or listened when I spoke. They chose to disobey me and do evil."

• People refused to listen to Samuel. "No!" they said. - 1 Samuel 8:19
• Samuel was giving them God's word, not his own ideas.
• And he did evil in the sight of the LORD by following the abominations of the nations that the LORD had driven out. - 2 Kings 21:2
• He sacrificed his own son in the fire, practiced sorcery and divination, and consulted mediums and spiritists. He did great evil in the sight of the LORD, provoking Him to anger. 2 Kings 21:6
•  Today I see divination, consulted mediums and spiritists as when we listen to music
•  Music is extremely influential, passive hearing is very powerful

Now it gets personal:

• Because you refused my call, and no one took my outstretched hand, Proverbs 1:24, 
• I believed God, therefore I spoke (God's grace reaches for you)
• So they will eat the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. Proverbs 1:31
• For the waywardness of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them. Proverbs 1:32
• What the wicked dreads will overtake him, but the desire of the righteous will be granted. Proverbs 10:24

Wowza, thank you Lord that rejection comes with promises of blessing and justice.  https://biblehub.com/isaiah/66-5.htm,

• They replied, "You were born in utter sin, and you are instructing us?" And they threw him out. John 9:34
• If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. John 15:18
• They will put you out of the synagogues. In fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God. John 16:2
• It's okay to be rejected when you're doing the right thing, don't dispare anymore - God knows and will comfort you
• Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10
• You will be hated by everyone on account of My name, but the one who perseveres to the end will be saved. Matthew 10:22
• When Jesus said this, all His adversaries were humiliated. And the whole crowd rejoiced at all the glorious things He was doing. Luke 13:17

Thank you Lord, you have ministered to my soul. Bless you Lord, thank you for coming into my life and making me whole. Today, help me live by your truth and bring healing through my hands and feet. In Jesus name, AMEN!

Read More ->>

God's promises and sovereign will, seen in our lives (Romans 9:1-19)

Romans 9:1-29

AIM: Understand your choice within God's sovereign wrath and mercy

1) Speak truth in Christ, conscience confirmed by Holy Spirit
2-3) sorrow in heart, wishing self-cursed rather than kinsman Israel

• 4-5) adoption to sonship, divine glory, covenants (law, temple, promises), 
• patriarchs to Messiah (Matthew, Luke trace lineage)
• Messiah is God (John 1:1, Colossians 2:9)

6-9) God's word didn't fail, Abraham/Sarah, Israel's descendants are reckoned (Gen 21:12), not from birth but from promise (Romans 8:14, Galatians 3:16)
10-13) Rebekah/Isaac, twins, God's purpose, election (not works but him who calls) Jacob loved Esau hated (Mal 1:2,3)
14-15) Is God unjust? No, he says to Moses: mercy and compassion is God's sovereign choice (Ex 33:19)

• Yet our lives and decisions are part of this "choice". Jer 18:7-10, God announces people will be destruction or blessing but then if those people change for either good or bad - the Lord will not do as he said. Jonah 3:10 and Jeremiah 26:3 are also helpful to think about how God's sovereign choice interacts with our choice. 

16) No human desire or effort but God's mercy

• Remember Romans 8:28, Genesis 50:20, truth is same on the flip side of the Sovereignty coin

17) Pharaoh displayed God's power, God's name proclaimed in all the earth (Exodus 9:16,17, 14:4)

• Judgement, salvation to all humble, yet a remnant of wrath (Psalm 76:9-10)
• Think of Shadrach, Meshach, and Adeb-nego. By Nebuchadnezzar's wrath, God's glory was shown and proclaimed throughout the land (Daniel 3:15-27,28,29-30)

18) God mercy whom he wants, hardens whom he wants

• Who does God have mercy on? Think Beatitudes, The parable of the sower and faith comes by hearing (Seven blessings in Revelation explain faith, eternal life and sanctification)
• Who does God harden? Those who ignore, refuse or mock his call for salvation. (Lamb's seventh seal brings prayer and six trumpets for repentance)

19) Why does God still blame us? Who is able to resist his will?

• 20-24) Who are humans to talk back to the Creator, we are his work, for His purpose and glory
• Search scriptures like Paul to let the Holy Spirit reveal the mystery for you 
•  - mouthing off to God: Job 1:22,9:12,40:2 linked to clay/potter Isaiah 45:9
•  - clay and potter: Isaiah 29:16, 64:8, Jer 18:6 links to movement/ability Isaiah 10:15
•  Recurring theme in Paul's life: 2 Tim 2:20, gold/silver, wood/clay - common verses special use
• See God's kindness and forbearance/patients (Romans 2;4), The Lord works out everything to its proper end - even the wicked for a day of disaster (Proverbs 16:4)

25-29) Principle: Scripture interprets scripture. Application: How can you know how to live as God's loved, adopted children? Ho does obeying what you know, fulfill your God-given purpose? Where are you resisting God's will in your seeing, hearing, and understanding - when will you repent of this resistence?

Read More ->>

Communicate needed change into a receptive heart

A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit. Proverbs 15:13 NIV 

I like rehab shows where people see the possibilities in houses, situations, and people that have "fallen off the rails" so to speak. Some of my favorites have been Restaurant Impossible, What Not To Wear, Dog Whisperer, and Curb Appeal. They all start with diagnostics and research - leading to confrontation and finally a new understanding and a new beginning. Have you ever had to give someone bad news for their own good, but maybe it didn't go as well as you hoped? Maybe that confrontation ended a relationship with someone you love. Maybe you were on the receiving end and have a crushed spirit. Whatever happened in the past or your current situation - God's got some great advice for us in Proverbs 15 to communicate needed change into a receptive heart. 

When people are in a good mood they are more receptive, open and can see possibilities. Song has power to change our mood and bring us into a place of receptivity. This is why teenagers can be easily depressed while listening to the same song over and over. For little children you can sing "If your happy and you know it clap your hands...If your happy and you know it then your face will surely show it, if your happy and you know it clap your hands."

Words are powerful and alter the path of our lives. Lord help us to be receptive to your truth, to seek you first and take it to heart.

Proverbs 15, says about God

1. The Lord is watching everywhere, keeping his eye on both the evil and the good. 
2. The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but he delights in the prayers of the upright. 
3. The Lord detests the way of the wicked, but he loves those who pursue godliness. 
4. Even Death and Destruction hold no secrets from the Lord . How much more does he know the human heart! 
5. The Lord tears down the house of the proud, but he protects the property of widows. 
6. The Lord detests evil plans, but he delights in pure words. 
7. The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayers of the righteous.

Proverbs 15:3‭, ‬8‭-‬9‭, ‬11‭, ‬25‭-‬26‭, ‬29 NLT

 - Jehovah Nissi: God provides daily blessings, experiences and people to remind us the He is our banner.

Read More ->>

God calls us to care for the needy and defenseless

Micah 6: 6-8
How do you know when someone cares about you or loves you? Caring for someone and showing love is synonymous. Love languages are universal such as gifts, acts of service, quality time, physical touch or words of affection. However sometimes people don’t receive love from another because there natural language (like words of affection) don’t understand another persons natural language (acts of service).
“Care” = “Love for others”. Deuteronomy 10:19; Psalm 133:1-3; John 13:14; John 15:12; Romans 12:9-10; Ephesians 5:2; Hebrews 13:1; 1 John 2:9-11;3:10-11;16-18;4:7-12 “Care” = “Kindness toward others”.Proverbs 12:25; 19:17; 1 Cor 13:4; Gal 5:22; Eph 4:32; Col 3:12; 1 Thess 5:15; 2 Tim 2:24; 2 Peter 1:5-7 In Micah 6:1-5, God as prosecutor in this cosmic court-room (vv. 1-2) states His case: (1) He rescued Israel from Egypt; (2) He gave as leaders Moses, Aaron, and Miriam; (3) He reversed the intended curse of Balaam (Numbers 23-24) and (4) He brought His people into the Promised Land. Micah 6:6-7 is Israel's confused reply to God’s past faithfulness recounted in Micah 6:1-5. (Micah 6:1-5 footnote. Ryrie Study Bible Expanded Edition. Chicago. Moody Bible Institute, 1994 p1382)
How does Hebrews 12:14,24; 1 Peter 1:15-16 and Romans 12:1 answer the question, “With what shall I come before the Lord”?
Personal holiness (setting yourself apart) is a commitment of oneself to God. It’s totally surrendering oneself to the Lordship of God. We can only come to the Lord in holiness that God gives (John 3:3-5, Eph 2:8-10). He provided the Way in Jesus. Hebrews 12:24 “You have come to Jesus, the one who mediates the new covenant between God and people, and to the sprinkled blood, which speaks of forgiveness instead of crying out for vengeance like the blood of Abel.” We must give ourselves to God as “a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable.” - Rom 12:1.
Micah 6:8 says the Lord requires you “to do justice”, how does Isaiah 1:17 and Jeremiah 22:3 helps me understand justice from God’s point of view. Isaiah 1:17; Jeremiah 22:3 “learn to do right. Seek justice is concerned with relieving the oppressed AND correcting the oppressor. Defending the fatherless and plead for the widow. Executing justice and righteousness is to deliver out of the hand of the oppressor him who has been robbed. It involves doing no wrong, not being violent to strangers or temporary residents, the fatherless or widow. Not shedding innocent blood in this place.
Micah 6:8 says God requires you “to love kindness”, practical help:

• Ephesians 4:32 - become useful, helpful and kind to others have compassion and understanding (tenderhearted) - forgive others readily and freely as God in Christ Jesus forgave you.
• Proverbs 12:25 - be an encouraging with your words, help lift anxiety from people’s heart
• 1 Thessalonians 5:15 - don’t pay back wrongs with more wrongs, but always aim to show kindness and seek to do good for everyone
• 2 Timothy 2:24 - Don’t be a fighter, instead be kind to everyone - preserving the bond of peace - this requires patient, forbearing willingness to suffer wrong.

Micah 6:8 says the Lord requires you “to walk humbly with your God”, read Psalm 18:27 and 2 Chron 7:14, meditate on these verses. What does walking humbly with God look like?

• God saves the humble but brings low the proud
• “If” I humble myself
• and pray
• and seek God’s face
• and turn from wicked ways
• “Then” God will will hear from heaven
• and will forgive my sin
• and will heal my land

Read More ->>