God blesses us with truth from the sermon on the mount (Matthew 5-7)

40 days to be blessed gave me the idea of Matt5-13. To see if reading the scripture and walking through it with my brother could transform our thinking about "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered.." Matthew 13:44

Reading the Bible for life change requires unction. Unction is acquired only through a believers prayer. Lord help the sermon on the mount impact my life, beyond myself for generations to come, in Jesus name. 

In the New Testament, unction takes on a broader spiritual significance, often associated with the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ, referred to as the "Anointed One" or "Messiah," embodies the ultimate fulfillment of Old Testament anointing. In Luke 4:18-19, Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah, declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor" . This passage highlights the divine empowerment and mission of Jesus through the anointing of the Holy Spirit. 

The concept of unction extends to all believers in the New Testament, as they are anointed by the Holy Spirit. In 1 John 2:20, the apostle John writes, "But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth" . This anointing signifies the believer's reception of the Holy Spirit, granting them spiritual insight and discernment. - unction

Jesus message announces God's love and generous grace for everyone (Matt 5-13, Romans 10-12)

The Lord's countenance brings clarity and peace of mind (Matthew 5:3)

• The cure for family trauma and depression is placing hope in God (Matt 5:3-6, Psalm 42-43)
• Hearts and minds carries decisions, wrong or right (Romans 2:15, Mat 5:8, 6:22, Hebrews 11-13)

Prayer is our most important activity. 

• Prayer brings God to the mind of those who are far off (1 Peter 4:7-11)
• Years ago I would "gift wrap the gospel" in cash, I would have a tweet card or sticker with a message to bless the receiver. 

Halloween 2015

• Seeking (with a salty thirst): His Kingdom and His Righteousness (Matt 5:6,13,6:33, Jer 29:13)
• Suffering for peace and righteousness is easy, His burden is light (Matthew 5:3-10,11:30)
• Purpose in praise and prayer, illustrated in salt and light (Psalms 34; Matthew 5:12-19)

Jesus explains the Spirit of the law is love in the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 5:17-48)

• In wisdom, God generously enables our lives, the world says this is foolish (Matt 5:42)

God sees us and rewards good deeds received with prayer, forgiveness, and fasting (Matthew 6:1-18)

I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments (Psalm 119:45, Matthew 6:9-13)

• Separation of wicked from the righteous (Matt 13:47-49)

 Jesus sermon concludes, defining what Loving Others Looks like (Matthew 7:1-29)

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Blessed with wisdom having walked through the narrow gate (Matt 7:13, Rev 22:14, Prov 3:18)

Matthew 7:7-8) keep on asking = receive, keep on seeking = find, keep on knocking = "the door will be opened to you."

• What door? the narrow gate you enter into God's Kingdom. Matthew 7:13

Blessed are those who wash their robes. They will be permitted to enter through the gates of the city and eat the fruit from the tree of life. Rev 22:14

Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy (blessed) are those who hold her tightly. Proverbs 3:18

This weekend we had wonderful time with family, celebrating life and birthdays and rekindled relationships. Lane, Chloe, and Roman are delightful as are Mike and Jeannie. My brothers and sisters got along, a great answer to prayer and I got quality time with all of them. 

Pastor Jeremy's son and graduating class was blessed with our the Word: "fan into flame the gift of God." 2 Tim 1:6

Sunday's sermon was on Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take." As the pastor talked about a TV show to illustrate we have limited understanding - I kept reading through Proverbs 3. 

1-4) IF Never forget loyalty, kindness, store/write commands deep in your heart, THEN long satisfying life, favor God and people, good reputation. 

• 5-6) Trust (faith), depend, seek LORD, whole hearted, in everything, he shows which path to take (walk by faith)

7-8) IF Humbley fear LORD, turn from evil THEN healing Body, strengthen bones.

• 9-10) Honor LORD wealth, best part of everything produced, THEN he fill your barns with grain, vats overflow with good wine.
• 11) Don't reject the LORD's discipline, or be upset when HE corrects you...
• I had split hostas in a portable greenhouse and thought of giving them extra sun. The sun almost killed them, so now they are back in the shade and protected, receiving warmed at night and morning sun. Some relationships are like this. As I've been discovering: Jesus sermon concludes, defining what Loving Others Looks like (Matthew 7:1-29), I've rediscovered I never knew you explained in parable of virgins (Matthew 7:23, Matthew 25:12). 
• 12) for the LORD corrects those he loves, just a s father corrects a child in whom he delights
• I know God helped me explain that our thinking comes from influence we bring into our minds. I got to share this with my brother Monday at Punch: Tasteful, sunny disposition brings glory to God (Psalm 34:8, Matthew 5:13-16)

13) Joyful is the person who finds wisdom (Ask, Seek, Knock), understanding (Matthew 13:15)

• 14-17) Wisdom is precious, offers long-life, riches, honor, guidance down delightful paths, all ways are satisfying
• 18) Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly.
• 19-20) By Wisdom, LORD founded earth, by understanding created heavens, by HIS knowledge deep fountains burst forth (geyser of living water, welling up to eternal life), dew settles beneath the night sky (gentle living water for the thirsty)

21) Don't lose sight of common sense and discernment, hand on to them.

• Seeking (with a salty thirst): His Kingdom and His Righteousness (Matt 5:6,13,6:33, Jer 29:13)
• 22-26) refresh you soul, safe on your way, sleep soundly without fear, unafraid, LORD secures and keeps us from being caught in a trap.

27-28) Use power to help those who deserve it (Lane, Chloe & Roman)

29-35) Be peaceful, trustworthy, godly, upright, humble and honorable. 

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Jesus sermon concludes, defining what Loving Others Looks like (Matthew 7:1-29)

 Matthew 6:19-7:29

My heart during our first quarter check in leads me to change my approach with people. To seek the wisdom of God rather than the wisdom of the world. Isaiah 58 reminded me that I want to be known as a rebuilder of walls and a restorer of homes, guided continually by the LORD - I will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring (welling up to eternal life). 

Worry is a dark thought that is cured with heavenly insight (Matthew 6:19-34)

Matthew 7:1-6) Judge others, be judged in the same way - the standard by which you judge.

"why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own?"

Heavenly insight: We can't help others, when we can't see past the log in our own eye. First get rid of the log in our eye (the lamp that gives light to our bodies, the light we think we have).

Don't waste what is holy on people who are unholy - like throwing pearls to pigs, they trample pearls, then turn and attack me.

How do I get rid of the log in my eye?

Matthew 7:7-8) keep on asking = receive, keep on seeking = find, keep on knocking = "the door will be opened to you."

• What door? the narrow gate you enter into God's Kingdom. Matthew 7:13
• the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult Matthew 7:14
• Hearts and minds carries decisions, wrong or right (Romans 2:15, Mat 5:8, 6:22, Hebrews 11-13)
  
• Confess daily and repent from premeditated sin
  

9-11) parents, when child asks for bread and fish you don't give them stone and snake, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.

• Jesus Feeds 5,000+ and Promise we will do more

Matthew 7:12) “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.

• Narrow gate, we enter the Kingdom of God - where anything is possible feeding 5000 from nothing but a man of God and loaves and fishes. 
• Prayer gives the gift of Unction, an anointing, charisma that gives the Gospel, the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. Romans 1:16
  

Matthew 7:12) “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.

Matthew 7:15-20) Beware of false prophets (disguised), identify by fruit/action - good or bad, "every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire."

Matthew 7:21-23) Not everyone, not big words, but doing the will of Jesus Father in heaven will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. 

• I never knew you explained in parable of virgins (Matthew 7:23, Matthew 25:12)

Matthew 7:24-29) Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock...Jesus...taught with real authority—quite unlike their teachers of religious law.

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In wisdom, God generously enables our lives, the world says this is foolish (Matt 5:42)

Luke 6:30 Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what is yours, do not demand it back.

Luke 6:34-35 And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. / But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them, expecting nothing in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.

I've been thinking about where we get our wisdom. Our pastor is doing a series on Proverbs, "un-common sense." We either follow ourselves (flesh), follow a guru (world), follow wickedness (devil) or follow God (godly life).

• Tasteful, sunny disposition brings glory to God (Psalm 34:8, Matthew 5:13-16)
• People have four dispositions, three are toxic, one is from God

I love 2 Peter 1:3‭-‬11 NLT that talks about spiritual power and growth, through coming to know God and his great and precious promises. We make every effort to respond to God's promises by supplementing our faith with generous provision of moral excellence. 

We see a progression of love in action, in our Matt5-13 series: 

• Matthew 5:42 Give to those who ask, and don’t turn away from those who want to borrow.
• Matthew 5:48 You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
• Matthew 6:24 “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.
• 1 Timothy 6:10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.
• Matthew 7:12 “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

Principles taught throughout scripture

• Proverbs 19:17 Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender.
• Deuteronomy 15:7-11 If there is a poor man among your brothers within any of the gates in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, then you are not to harden your heart or shut your hand from your poor brother. / Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs. / Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought in your heart: “The seventh year, the year of release, is near,” so that you look upon your poor brother begrudgingly and give him nothing. He will cry out to the LORD against you, and you will be guilty of sin. ...
• Proverbs 21:26 All day long he covets more, but the righteous give without restraint.
• 1 John 3:17 If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him?

Acts 20:35 In everything, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus Himself: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

• Jesus explains working in his kingdom is about giving not taking (Matthew 19:30-21:17)
• When we give we are blessed, principles on giving

We need the unction of God, only by prayer with faith, hope, and love everything needed has been given to us. 

• Study universal holiness of life, Men are God's method

James 2:15-16 Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. / If one of you tells him, “Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,” but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that?

Proverbs 3:27-28 Do not withhold good from the deserving when it is within your power to act. / Do not tell your neighbor, “Come back tomorrow and I will provide”—when you already have the means.

2 Corinthians 9:7 Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.

Galatians 6:9-10 Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. / Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith.

Isaiah 58:7 Isn’t it to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the poor and homeless into your home, to clothe the naked when you see him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

Romans 12:13 Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Hebrews 13:16 And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

Psalm 37:21 The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous are gracious and giving

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Hearts and minds carries decisions, wrong or right (Romans 2:15, Mat 5:8, 6:22, Hebrews 11-13)

They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right. Romans 2:15

God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. (Matt 5:8) “Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light. Matthew 6:22

So if your whole body is full of light, with no part of it in darkness, you will be radiant, as though a lamp were shining on you.” Luke 11:36

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105

Yesterday, I was enjoying Release Yourself From Resentment - Best of Bill Johnson Sermons | Bethel Church. He highlights the life of Joseph, mistreated, a life of trials, abuse and imprisonment because of family dynamics and trauma. He then becomes the most powerful person in Egypt and uses his power and influence to save the world, including and especially his family. We remember this famous verse.

• Genesis 50:20, where Joseph tells his brothers, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good, to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives"

Joseph trusted in God and embraced heavenly wisdom instead of worldly wisdom (James 3:13-18, which contrasts true wisdom from above with earthly, unspiritual, and demonic wisdom. 1 Corinthians 3:19 also states that the wisdom of the world is foolishness with God.)

• Nature of Worldly Wisdom: This wisdom is characterized by envy, selfish ambition, and a desire for worldly gain. It often prioritizes pleasure, power, and status over righteousness and spiritual well-being. It says, you were wronged/injured and they deserve payback/punishment. 
• True Wisdom: The contrast is with "wisdom from above," which is described as pure, peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy, and without partiality or hypocrisy. This wisdom is rooted in God's character and brings about a harvest of righteousness. 
• Implications: This view suggests that pursuing worldly wisdom can lead to a life that is disconnected from God and focused on self-interest, ultimately leading to confusion and evil. 

What's interesting is that when the new testament remembers Joseph it says, "It was by faith that Joseph, when he was about to die, said confidently that the people of Israel would leave Egypt. He even commanded them to take his bones with them when they left." Hebrews 11:22

He's dream went from being about himself (Genesis 37:5-7) to being about his people who would live in freedom in the promised land (Hebrews 11:22). 

We now see this in our lives as Christians

• Romans 8:28, And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.

And this is what happened to Jesus on the Cross

• Acts 2:23-24, He was delivered up by God’s set plan and foreknowledge, and you, by the hands of the lawless, put Him to death by nailing Him to the cross. / But God raised Him from the dead, releasing Him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep Him in its grip.

Hebrews 12-13 brings our life of trials in view of Jesus and our heavenly Father's discipline leads to decisive love for God and others. 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up. After all, you have not yet given your lives in your struggle against sin.

And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said,

“My child, don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline,

    and don’t give up when he corrects you.

For the Lord disciplines those he loves,

    and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.”

As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? If God doesn’t discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children at all. Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever?

For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.

So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong.

Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Make sure that no one is immoral or godless like Esau, who traded his birthright as the firstborn son for a single meal. You know that afterward, when he wanted his father’s blessing, he was rejected. It was too late for repentance, even though he begged with bitter tears.

You have not come to a physical mountain, to a place of flaming fire, darkness, gloom, and whirlwind, as the Israelites did at Mount Sinai. For they heard an awesome trumpet blast and a voice so terrible that they begged God to stop speaking. They staggered back under God’s command: “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned to death.” Moses himself was so frightened at the sight that he said, “I am terrified and trembling.”

No, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to countless thousands of angels in a joyful gathering. You have come to the assembly of God’s firstborn children, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God himself, who is the judge over all things. You have come to the spirits of the righteous ones in heaven who have now been made perfect. 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.

Be careful that you do not refuse to listen to the One who is speaking. For if the people of Israel did not escape when they refused to listen to Moses, the earthly messenger, we will certainly not escape if we reject the One who speaks to us from heaven! When God spoke from Mount Sinai his voice shook the earth, but now he makes another promise: “Once again I will shake not only the earth but the heavens also.” This means that all of creation will be shaken and removed, so that only unshakable things will remain.

Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe. For our God is a devouring fire.

Keep on loving each other as brothers and sisters. Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! Remember those in prison, as if you were there yourself. Remember also those being mistreated, as if you felt their pain in your own bodies.

Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery.

Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said,

“I will never fail you.

    I will never abandon you.”

So we can say with confidence,

“The Lord is my helper,

    so I will have no fear.

    What can mere people do to me?”

Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. So do not be attracted by strange, new ideas. Your strength comes from God’s grace, not from rules about food, which don’t help those who follow them.

We have an altar from which the priests in the Tabernacle have no right to eat. Under the old system, the high priest brought the blood of animals into the Holy Place as a sacrifice for sin, and the bodies of the animals were burned outside the camp. So also Jesus suffered and died outside the city gates to make his people holy by means of his own blood. So let us go out to him, outside the camp, and bear the disgrace he bore. For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come.

Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.

Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit.

Pray for us, for our conscience is clear and we want to live honorably in everything we do. And especially pray that I will be able to come back to you soon.

Now may the God of peace—

    who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus,

the great Shepherd of the sheep,

    and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood—

may he equip you with all you need

    for doing his will.

May he produce in you,

    through the power of Jesus Christ,

every good thing that is pleasing to him.

    All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.

I urge you, dear brothers and sisters, to pay attention to what I have written in this brief exhortation.

I want you to know that our brother Timothy has been released from jail. If he comes here soon, I will bring him with me to see you.

Greet all your leaders and all the believers there. The believers from Italy send you their greetings.

May God’s grace be with you all. (Hebrews 12-13)

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Separation of wicked from the righteous (Matt 13:47-49)

Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was cast into the sea and caught all kinds of fish.  When it was full, the men pulled it ashore. Then they sat down and sorted the good fish into containers, but threw the bad away. So will it be at the end of the age: The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous Matt 13:47-49

I was at the Springfield art fair on Saturday with Joe, John, Connie, and Kim. There was a guy and his wife holding signs warning about hell and preaching in the style of sinners in the hands of an angry God. But nobody paid much attention. 

In our study of Matt5-13, I've been enjoying discovering new facets of truth. Jesus starts out saying "blessed are the poor, who realize their need for God - for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. Jesus then spends a lot of time talking about what the Kingdom of heaven is and how the righteous and wicked respond to it. 

The kingdom of heaven will be free from sin - it's source, lure, and consequences (Rev 20:7-15). Jesus has already accomplished this and is continuing it's accomplishment today. I was reflecting on Geysers, planters and pruners: How people are born into and matured in the Faith with the realization that I can't "bring" anyone to faith. I can however pray to God who is able to do more than I can ask or imagine. So that what I do. I pray for my family, friends, co-workers, city, state, country, and world. "your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." This give me a new perspective and I get to see God is working and I can see the light. "In your eyes" sung as a worship song to God is pretty amazing, they guy at the end is "speaking in tongues."

• Fellowship, and good announcement: be made right with God (Matthew 6:1-18)
• Worry is a dark thought that is cured with heavenly insight (Matthew 6:19-34)
• The cure for family trauma and depression is placing hope in God (Psalm 42-43)

Separation is to life or destruction

• Matthew 3:12 - His winnowing fork is in His hand to clear His threshing floor and to gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”

Separation after resurrection is predicted

• Daniel 12:2 - And many who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, but others to shame and everlasting contempt
• Matthew 25:32-33 - All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. / He will place the sheep on His right and the goats on His left.
• Ezekiel 34:17-22 - This is what the Lord GOD says to you, My flock: ‘I will judge between one sheep and another...
• John 5:28-29 - Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming when all who are in their graves will hear His voice / and come out—those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment.

Separation of the unprepared from the prepared

• Matthew 22:10-14  -So the servants went out into the streets and gathered everyone they could find, both evil and good, and the wedding hall was filled with guests. / But when the king came in to see the guests, he spotted a man who was not dressed in wedding clothes. / ‘Friend,’ he asked, ‘how did you get in here without wedding clothes?’ But the man was speechless. ...
• Luke 6:47-49 - I will show you what he is like who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them: / He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid his foundation on the rock. When the flood came, the torrent crashed against that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. / But the one who hears My words and does not act on them is like a man who built his house on ground without a foundation. The torrent crashed against that house, and immediately it fell—and great was its destruction!”

Seperation of the abiding children of God (heirs of the Kingdom), from workers of lawlessness

• Matthew 7:22-23 - Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ / Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!’
• Romans 2:6-8 - God “will repay each one according to his deeds.” / To those who by perseverance in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, He will give eternal life. / But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow wickedness, there will be wrath and anger.
• Luke 13:24-30  - “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able. / After the master of the house gets up and shuts the door, you will stand outside knocking and saying, ‘Lord, open the door for us.’ But he will reply, ‘I do not know where you are from.’ / Then you will say, ‘We ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.’ ...
• John 15:6 - If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers. Such branches are gathered up, thrown into the fire, and burned.
• 2 Corinthians 5:10 - For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad.

Separation from sin's source, lures, and consequences is our best life

• Revelation 20:12-15 - And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne. And books were opened, and one of them was the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books. / The sea gave up its dead, and Death and Hades gave up their dead, and each one was judged according to his deeds. / Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death—the lake of fire. ...
• Revelation 21:27  - But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who practices an abomination or a lie, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

Ezekiel 20:38 - And I will purge you of those who rebel and transgress against Me. I will bring them out of the land in which they dwell, but they will not enter the land of Israel. Then you will know that I am the LORD.

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The cure for family trauma and depression is placing hope in God (Psalm 42-43)

 I gave favorable feedback to my coworkers, seeing the good they've contributed and celebrating the team effort. I'm blessed and grateful. I've enjoyed reviewing The Lord's countenance brings clarity and peace of mind (Matthew 5:3) and having fun seeing Tony and Jane. 

Psalm 42-43 has the cure for overcoming family trauma (descendants of Korah). I've had this insight previously Look up when your feeling down

Change my thinking (Psalm 42:1-5)

• 1-3) long for, thirst for God, the living God - tears day and night (blessed are those who mourn, they will be comforted Matt 5:3-5). 
•  - Tears that go into your mouth, SALT - Taste and be comforted, 
• 4) Heart breaking remembering wonders of worship, joy, thanksgiving, celebration
• 5) Why discouraged, heart so sad? I WILL PUT MY HOPE IN GOD! Praise him again, my Savior, my God!
• The "call" of God and the ability to respond (Gen 12:1)
  

Change my theology (Psalm 42:6-11)

• 6-8) Currently discouraged, but remember God. Lost at sea, but each day LORD pours unfailing love upon me, sing his songs, praying to God who gives life
• 9-10) Feeling forgotten, wandering grief, oppressed. 
• 11) Why discouraged, heart sad? I WILL PUT MY HOPE IN GOD! Praise him again, my Savior, my God!
• Thankful obedience is our acceptable worship, leads us to understanding
  

Change my view of my tormentors (Psalm 43:1-5)

• 1-2) God declares me innocent, defends and rescues, God is my only safe haven. Why wander in grief, oppressed?
• 3) Send out your light and your truth, let them guide me. Let them lead me to your holy mountain, the place where you live (Hebrews 11-12)
• 4) There I will go to the altar of God, to God-the source of all my joy. I will praise you with my harp, O God, my God!
• 5) Why discouraged, heart sad? I WILL PUT MY HOPE IN GOD! Praise him again, my Savior, my God!
• Seeking (with a salty thirst): His Kingdom and His Righteousness (Matt 5:6,13,6:33, Jer 29:13)

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The Lord's countenance brings clarity and peace of mind (Matthew 5:3)

Enjoying the sunrise this morning and contemplating the birds who get up before the sunrises. "Good Morning God!" is their song. We have the windows open because the A/C went out. As I watch the sunrise and praying for family, work friends and ministry partners this blessing came to me. "The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace (Numbers 6:26 NKJV)"

Yesterday at SALT and LIGHT we reviewed John 14 where Jesus speaks truth and invites questions. It brought me to ASK and you will receive, SEEK and you will find, KNOCK and the door will be opened. 

• Psalm 4:6 - There are many who say, “Who will show us any good?” Lord, lift up the light of Your countenance upon us. 

God has a countenance but so do we, sometimes our countenance can be diagnosed by our attitude toward God.

• Psalm 10:4 - The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts. 
• Psalm 11:7- For the Lord is righteous, He loves righteousness; His countenance beholds the upright. 

Enjoying the grace of God received as I walk by faith. I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments (Psalm 119:45, Matthew 6:9-13) now I'm seeing "how" God shows his grace to us and what it means to live with grace upon grace, sufficient grace for everything we need.  The Lord lift up his countenance upon us, is getting back to God see me, let me see you... 

• Grace is often defined as the unmerited favor of God. I've often thought of Grace and Mercy being two sides of the same coin. Grace the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings. Mercy is compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.
• Numbers 6:26 NLT reads "May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace." Grace = Show you his favor, Mercy = give you his peace.

It's fun to read different versions of the Bible and receive a new facet. 

What does God's countenance mean?

In Judaism and Christianity, the concept is the manifestation of God rather than a remote immanence or delegation of an angel, even though a mortal would not be able to gaze directly upon him. "Countenance" can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a person's facial expression or the face itself, often indicating mood or character. As a verb, it means to tolerate, approve, or support something. 

Years ago I learned that when Moses asked to see God's glory, he said I will let my goodness pass before you - mercy and compassion. 

Inside the Tent of Meeting, the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Afterward Moses would return to the camp, but the young man who assisted him, Joshua son of Nun, would remain behind in the Tent of Meeting.

One day Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Take these people up to the Promised Land.’ But you haven’t told me whom you will send with me. You have told me, ‘I know you by name, and I look favorably on you.’ If it is true that you look favorably on me, let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favor. And remember that this nation is your very own people.”

The Lord replied, “I will personally go with you, Moses, and I will give you rest—everything will be fine for you.”

Then Moses said, “If you don’t personally go with us, don’t make us leave this place. How will anyone know that you look favorably on me—on me and on your people—if you don’t go with us? For your presence among us sets your people and me apart from all other people on the earth.”

The Lord replied to Moses, “I will indeed do what you have asked, for I look favorably on you, and I know you by name.”

Moses responded, “Then show me your glorious presence.”

The Lord replied, “I will make all my goodness pass before you, and I will call out my name, Yahweh, before you. For I will show mercy to anyone I choose, and I will show compassion to anyone I choose. Ex 33:11-19

We often have drown in sorrow, but a meeting with friend transforms our heart and attitude. 

• Proverbs 15:13 (NKJV): A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.
• Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV) As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.
• Worry is a dark thought that is cured with heavenly insight (Matthew 6:19-34)
  

We should see the repetition in Psalm 42-43 as a prescription when our friend is away: Hope in God, praise Him For the help of His countenance!

• Psalm 42:5 - Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance. 
• Psalm 42:11 - Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God. 
• Psalm 43:5 - Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God. 

God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. (Matthew 5:3)

• Psalm 44:3 - For they did not gain possession of the land by their own sword, Nor did their own arm save them; But it was Your right hand, Your arm, and the light of Your countenance, Because You favored them. 
• Psalm 80:16 - It is burned with fire, it is cut down; They perish at the rebuke of Your countenance. 
• Psalm 89:15 - Blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! They walk, O Lord, in the light of Your countenance. 
• Psalm 90:8 - You have set our iniquities before You, Our secret sins in the light of Your countenance.

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I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments (Psalm 119:45, Matthew 6:9-13)

Today I changed my blog name from Psalm 119:11 to Psalm 119:45

I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments.

God's grace empowers us to walk as Jesus walked, to love as Jesus loved, to hear, see, and understand as Jesus understood. Grace is given through faith and grace is poured out through love. Grace is described in the Bible (across NLT, ESV, NIV, NASB) 

• Jesus the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth (John 1:14)
• For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. (John 1:16)
• For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. (John 1:17)
• And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him. (Luke 2:40)

2 Cor 12:9 quotes the resurrected Jesus saying, "My grace is sufficient for you (all you need), for my power is (best) made perfect (perfected) in weakness.”

• perfect humble obedience, meekness (Matthew 5:5) - earth

our response, "So now (therefore) I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ (Christ's power) can work through me (may rest upon me/dwell in me).

• humble boasting is showing our poverty and need for God (Matthew 5:3) - kingdom of heaven

My friend Elshaddai shared these thoughts during our SALT Praise and Encouragement

A Royal Priesthood (1 Peter 2:9, NET)

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may proclaim the virtues of the one who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

The Priestly Benediction (Numbers 6:22-27, NET)

The Lord spoke to Moses: “Tell Aaron and his sons, ‘This is the way you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them:

“The Lord bless you and protect you;

The Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you;

The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.”’

“So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.”

The Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13, NET)

So pray this way:

Our Father in heaven, may your name be honored,

may your kingdom come, may your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread,

and forgive us our debts, as we ourselves have forgiven our debtors.

And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one,

(for yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever, amen)

The Liturgical Coda (1 Chronicles 29:11-13, NET)

O Lord, you are great, mighty, majestic, magnificent, glorious, and sovereign over all the sky and earth! You, Lord, have dominion and exalt yourself as the ruler of all. You are the source of wealth and honor; you rule over all. You possess strength and might to magnify and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give thanks to you and praise your majestic name!

Amen.

Living Now as Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Daniel, Naomi, and Jesus did in view of the present and future reality (Hebrews 11-12 and Revelation 5:10)

For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ! Romans 5:17

Then the sovereignty, dominion, and greatness of the kingdoms under all of heaven will be given to the people, the saints of the Most High. His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all rulers will serve and obey Him.’ Daniel 7:27

Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord (Isaiah 40:31, 40Days)

Long for, wait expectantly for the Lord for clarity (Hosea 10:12, Isaiah 30:18-22)

Three Days, recurring theme in the Bible for changing your heart

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Worry is a dark thought that is cured with heavenly insight (Matthew 6:19-34)

 Matthew 6:19-7:29

Key verses: 

"Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body...the light you think you have..." Matthew 6:22-23

Key insights

• Desire for the kingdom of heaven, serving God, seeking the Kingdom of God above all else and living righteously dominate the thoughts of believers.
• You will stand trial before governors and kings because you are my followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell the rulers and other unbelievers about me. (Matthew 10:18)
• Let love be your highest goal! But you should also desire the special abilities the Spirit gives—especially the ability to prophesy....Prophecy turns unbelievers into believers (1 Corinthians 14:1-4,22-25
• Worry (negative desire) and complaining enslave unbelievers (Matthew 6:32)
• Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? 2 Cor 6:14
• unbelievers who indulge in sexual sin, or are greedy, or cheat people, or worship idols. 1 Cor 5:10
• Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the Lord. Don’t touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you. 2 Cor 6:17

6:19-21) Store your treasures in heaven, not earth. Where your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. 

• Psalm 37:4) Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.
• Luke 12:34) Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.

22-23) Eye is a lamp that provides light for your body, healthy filled with light, unhealthy, filled with darkness. "light you think you have is actually darkness"

• Interesting metaphor eyes provide light and light is thought. 
• Reminds me that people take things personally and are offended, instead of seeing the offender as having a bad day.
• How am I praying for people? Forgive us as we forgive, lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
• Dark thoughts are worry and complaining (Matthew 6:31-32)

24) Either serve God or be enslaved to money. Fork in the road, hate/love, devoted/despise

25-27) Don't worry about everyday life (food, clothes), look at the birds (don't plant, harvest, store/barns)

• Worry is a dark thought, the cure is to look with new questions
• Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing?
•  Look at the birds with the light of God: your heavenly Father feeds them
• And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? 
• Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?
• 28-30) And why worry about your clothing?
• Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. they don't make clothing, yet dressed more beautifully than Solomon
• God cares for them, certainly will care for you
• Why do you have so little faith?

31-33) Don't worry with complaining words about food and clothes

These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.

Ned's Atomic Dust Din opened for Jesus Jones in 1991, it was a wonderful show and the first time I heard Grey Cell Green and the confusing line 

"When your 'Dis zay high eerrr',

it has been found

you'll be running far away"

then it clicked 'Dis zay high eerrr, Desire!'

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Fellowship, and good announcement: be made right with God (Matthew 6:1-18)

I enjoyed learning about the euangelion gospel, my friend said Euangelion reminded him of Eulogy, if Eu means good and angelion means announcement, we discovered Eulogy means Good Word (Eu, logas). My insight from the video was thinking of the prophets like we do the gospels, we say the "gospel of Matthew" but never say the "gospel of Isaiah." Then this morning I realized I had this insight last year Isaiah 48:12-51:23 is Jesus life and teaching from Isaiah. 

I got to celebrate the retirement of my friend Paul M and connect with Paul J and Dan (Tom's boss). We all lived downtown at various times. As we were talking I was sharing about the SALT network has many people joining that aren't church goers. How fellowship is what people need, a community of faith, people to praise and people to pray. The Minneapolis community has changed over the years but for better we have many great churches downtown like Substance, River Valley and even the traditional ones seems to be vibrant. I remember going to a church with my dad years ago downtown when I wasn't a church goer. I don't remember much of that experience, just enjoyed being with my dad while I was going through a confusing part of life. This morning I was remembering reading Isaiah from a "Student Bible" my dad had given me, the word of the Lord accomplishes all that it has in store for us. 

Today all the flowers are blooming on Judy's tree, its amazing to see what happens in just a few days in spring. This is a time of growth and new beginnings, praying for my brother, sisters, mom and dad this morning and all our cousins and extended family. I'm looking forward to seeing family on Mother's day and next week in Mason City, Il. Praising God the for the gift of friendship and bright hope for tomorrow. 

God sees us and rewards good deeds received with prayer, forgiveness, and fasting (Matthew 6:1-18)

Forgiveness is more than incredible and beautiful than I had imaged. We generally accept blessing other with bring a blessing from God but receiving forgiveness from God is absolutely life changing. 

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Jesus message announces God's love and generous grace for everyone (Matt 5-13, Romans 10-12)

Getting ready for SALT Words Matter word of the Month "Gospel (euangelion)", big idea Jesus message announces God's love and generous grace for everyone! This gospel announcement changes the world and changes everyone's life. My brother and I often talk about Christian institutions we take for granted. Dates and time (in the year of our Lord), public Schools and hospitals. Benevolent government and charitable organizations. "Red Cross", Serpent on a pole is symbolic of John 3, Good Will/Easter Seal, Salvation Army, Samaritans Purse and the list goes on and on. 

SALT, Praise and Encouragement Thomas Saunders had us read Psalm 119:105-112, God's word, promises, laws, decrees and our response. 

Still pondering God sees us and rewards good deeds received with prayer, forgiveness, and fasting (Matthew 6:1-18) and the job description of Peacemaker, being a Child of God - representing him as he's ordained. The big insight from my conversation with my brother this past Sunday was the link from God's blesses those who are merciful, for they will "BE SHOWN" mercy.

This brought us to Romans 12:1-2, but this morning I'm seeing Romans 12 is tied to Sermon on the Mount. I'll explore this tomorrow (as this morning a water line broke and cut into my normal quiet time). Thank God for water and sewer that normally works so well. Grateful for the reminder of years of blessing and years of struggle when I lived without a shower at 1212 Yale Street.  

"In view of God's mercy" NIV = "because of all he has done for you" NLT

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God sees us and rewards good deeds received with prayer, forgiveness, and fasting (Matthew 6:1-18)

This is so interesting how our job description as Peacemakers, children of God continues to build from the Spirit of the law, Jesus continues to explain what "righteousness" is. What should we be thirsty for that will lead to being satisfied/filled. What does the kingdom of God look like, as we are poor and realize our need for him? Jesus explains good deeds received with prayer, forgiveness and fasting have the effecting of bringing God's will to earth, as it is in heaven. A key tenant is seen in Matthew 6:14-15:

“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.

A) Righteous good deeds are reward by our God who sees

6:1-4) good deeds (like light for all to see, leading praise to God Matthew 5:16) charity giving should be private, your Father who sees will reward.

Reward shows up 12 times in Matt5-13, this is the third occurrence, the first two are here:

• God blesses persecuted for doing right as followers of Jesus, great reward awaits in heaven. (Matthew 5:10-12)
• If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Love your enemies, you are perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect (Matthew 5:43-48)

B) Prayer and fasting according to God's will is rewarded by our God who sees

6:5-6) Pray to Father in private, not masked in public, your Father who sees everything will reward you. El Roi (gen 16:13)

6:7-9) Pray to our Father in heaven, he knows exactly what you need before you ask

6:10) Pray your Kingdom come, will be done on earth as it is in heaven

• We have every Spiritual Blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. Ephesians 1:3-6 
• All Authority give to Christ at the Resurrection, and he pass that authority on to us to make disciples - Matthew 28:18-20

6:11-15) Give food, forgive sins as we have forgiven those who sin against us, not yielding to temptation but rescue from evil one, forgive those who sin, brings forgiveness from our heavenly Father. Refusing to forgive others, leaves our sins unforgiven.

• The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant, found in Matthew 18:23-35, is a story Jesus used to illustrate the importance of forgiveness and the consequences of unforgiveness

6:16-18) fasting should be done in private, so only Father who sees everything will reward you.

C) Reward is realized on earth as it is in Heaven, Binding

The idea of reward culminates in Matthew 10:40-42, my greatest insight as we studies the Gospel of John last year (John 5:23, John 12:44-45, John 13:20, John 14:21, John 17:18, John 20:21) also in Luke 10:16 and 2 Cor 5:20, Gal 4:14, 1 Thes 4:8, 1 John 4:6 and the prophet Isaiah 6:8-9

“Anyone who receives you receives me, and anyone who receives me receives the Father who sent me. If you receive a prophet as one who speaks for God, you will be given the same reward as a prophet. And if you receive righteous people because of their righteousness, you will be given a reward like theirs. And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded.”

In Matthew 10:40, Jesus states, "Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me." This verse emphasizes the close connection between Jesus, his disciples, and the Father. Receiving the disciples is equated with receiving Jesus, and receiving Jesus is equated with receiving the Father.  

• The Disciples as Representatives: Jesus is sending his disciples out to preach and heal, effectively representing him. Therefore, when people receive the disciples, they are essentially receiving Jesus and his message. 
• A Deeper Connection: The verse goes beyond the practical act of receiving. It implies that those who welcome the disciples with open hearts and minds are also acknowledging and honoring Jesus and the Father. 
• The Shaliach Concept: This idea aligns with the shaliach concept in Jewish tradition, where a sent one is considered as representative of the sender. The disciples, as shaliach, are seen as carrying the same authority and representing the same person as Jesus. 
• A Promise of Reward: Matthew 10:41 and 42 further expand on this theme, promising rewards for those who receive prophets, righteous people, or even a simple cup of cold water to the disciples, emphasizing the importance of hospitality and kindness to those representing Jesus. 

The saying "what is bound on earth will be bound in heaven" (and similarly, "what is loosed on earth will be loosed in heaven") is a concept found in the Bible, particularly in Matthew 16:19 and 18:18. It signifies that earthly decisions and actions, especially within the church, have corresponding significance in the spiritual realm. 

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Jesus explains the Spirit of the law is love in the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 5:17-48)

Enjoying Studies in the Sermon on the Mount, where Martyn Lloyd-Jones says the point of this teaching to Christians is not "do these things and you'll be a Christian" but "do these things because you are a Christian." 

We've just finished BSF study on Revelation and I learned a new insight about the millennium kingdom that comes before the new heaven and new earth. In the millennium kingdom, the devil is bound and the "world" is gone - but we still have the flesh. The sermon on the mount has been regarded to some as only valid for millennium, but we see it's themes take us through the message of Jesus, "have faith in the kingdom of heaven." 

Purpose in praise and prayer, illustrated in salt and light (Psalms 34; Matthew 5:12-19)

Suffering for peace and righteousness is easy, His burden is light (Matthew 5:3-10,11:30)

Sometimes we're Saul, sometimes we're Ananias (Acts 9)

• Seeking (with a salty thirst): His Kingdom and His Righteousness (Matt 5:6,13,6:33, Jer 29:13)
• God blesses characteristics of people with promises (Matthew 5:1-12)

Often, we want to know "what must I do" (empty way of ancestors)  but Jesus describes "what we must be" (righteous Kingdom of Heaven) - the letter of the law, vrs the Spirit of the law. Matthew 5:17-38

17-20 - Law/Righteousness Kingdom of Heaven: Jesus righteous obedience to the law reminds me of faith, hope, and love - linked to Holy Spirit sin (didn't believe), righteousness (Jesus going to Father in heaven), and judgment (the evil one is defeated). 

• 21-26) Anger/Danger/Curse Hell, reconciliation not murder/prison: empty way of ancestors, murder occurs in the heart, reconcile before sacrifice, settle differences with adversaries.  
• 27-30) adultery, lust eyes and hands/Whole Body Hell X2
• 31-32) Simple Divorce is Adultery
• 33-37) vows to LORD/Yes, I will or No, I won't - maybe is from the evil one.
• 38-42) Eye for eye revenge, vs non resistance, physical (cheek), property loss (coat), work (mile), money (borrow)

43-48) Love neighbor, and enemies through prayer, "children of Father in heaven" - Matthew 5:9) work for peace, called children of God, Matt 5:10) persecuted for doing right, Kingdom of Heaven

Thoughts and feelings

1. We are adopted into God's family and he has requirements for us living in his name. 
2. It's interesting to see that we start out with the Kingdom of Heaven, the three dangers of hell, traditional decision making (fight or flight) and end with Love your enemies through prayer that brings us back to the Beatitudes "God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him. Theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven." Matthew 5:3

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Purpose in praise and prayer, illustrated in salt and light (Psalms 34; Matthew 5:12-19)

Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose... purpose is achieved...obey God’s laws and teach them... Matthew 5:17,18-19

Blessings and promises have purpose as salt and light have purpose. 

• Accepting/Receiving/follow-through: 
• Remember God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, theirs in the kingdom of heaven. 
• This progresses through mourning and comfort, humble except inheritance, thirst for righteousness and filled/satisfied, merciful shown mercy, 
• Leads to "born again" faith
• Pure heart sees God, peacemaker children, persecuted for righteousness -> theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

Reading Blessings of Moses, explained by Jesus (Deuteronomy 28:1-14;Matthew 5:1-19) and enjoying memories of National Day of Prayer, how when we intercede for people we are joining Jesus, the Holy Spirit and the Father. When I close my eyes I can see heaven, like trees walking - the Lord restores my sight and my soul is filled. I'm blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms. Joy comes in the morning. Thank you Lord. 

Psalm 34:1-3) I praise the Lord, time, voice, boast - the helpless take heart, Lord's greatness, exalt his name (oh, magnify the Lord with me, he is worthy to be praised). Matthew 5:12) Be happy, very glad! great reward awaits you in heaven, remember prophets persecuted in the same way. 

• This verse is a reminder of the power of collective worship and the importance of sharing our appreciation and reverence for God with others, as we uplift His name together. 
• This Psalm has been on my heart since Teen Challenge Spiritual emphasis week. "I trust in God, my Savior the One - who will never fail... I sought the Lord and He heard and He answered - that's why I trust Him."
• The world is full of Spiritual believers but not followers of Jesus Christ, yet the Lord is winning people over, restoring hearts, minds, souls, strength when we love God and love one-another. 

Psalm 34:4-7) I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me, freed me from all my fears. Looking to Him for help makes me radiant with joy, the shadow of shame disappears. In my desperation I prayed, and the Lord listened; He saved me from all my troubles. The angel of the LORD is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him. 

• Develop a prayerful outlook, Quiet time with the Lords Prayer

Psalm 34:8-10) Taste (salt) and see (light) the Lord is good - joy in refuge, Father/child trust/fear, have all we need, lacking no good thing. Matthew 5:13-15) Salt and Light have purpose

Psalm 34:11-14) children listen, learn to fear the Lord - live a good life, don't speak evil or tell lies, turn away from evil and do good, search for peace and maintain it. Matthew 5:16)- let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

Psalm 34:15-16) Eyes of Lord watch over those who do right, ears open to their cries for help. But the Lord turns against evil doers and erases their memory from the earth.

17 The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help.

    He rescues them from all their troubles.

18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted;

    he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.

19 The righteous person faces many troubles,

    but the Lord comes to the rescue each time.

20 For the Lord protects the bones of the righteous;

    not one of them is broken!

21 Calamity will surely destroy the wicked,

    and those who hate the righteous will be punished.

22 But the Lord will redeem those who serve him.

    No one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.

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Suffering for peace and righteousness is easy, His burden is light (Matthew 5:3-10,11:30)

Preparing for the National Day of Prayer yesterday I had this thought. We receive Grace through Faith and are filled, we pour out grace to others through Love. "It is more blessed to give than receive" Acts 20:35. Faith, Hope, and Love last forever but the greatest is Love 1 Cor 13:13

Earlier in the week, the show Jeopardy was on in the background and for the category of world religions, the clue was "all suffering comes from desire or ignorance," "What is Buddhism?" The yin and yang, made me think about the cross - a third option in Christianity is suffering for doing good. The vertical relationship with God, beyond the horizontal relationship with people.

God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.

God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.

...Fast forward to Matthew 11:2-6

John the Baptist, who was in prison, heard about all the things the Messiah was doing. So he sent his disciples to ask Jesus, “Are you the Messiah we’ve been expecting, or should we keep looking for someone else?”

Jesus told them, “Go back to John and tell him what you have heard and seen— the blind see, the lame walk, those with leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised to life, and the Good News is being preached to the poor.” And he added, “God blesses those who do not fall away because of me. (or are offended because of me)”

Jesus continues to say John the Baptist is great but the least in the Kingdom of Heaven is greater. Before John came the law and prophets, and John is like Elijah (from Mal 4:5-6  “Look, I am sending you the prophet Elijah before the great and dreadful day of the Lord arrives. His preaching will turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and the hearts of children to their fathers...”

Malachi has an interesting contrast of blessing or curses, wisdom or folly, honor God's name or corrupt the promises...

Then Jesus began to denounce the towns where he had done so many of his miracles, because they hadn’t repented of their sins and turned to God. Mathew 11:20 ...

At that time Jesus prayed this prayer: “O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding these things from those who think themselves wise and clever, and for revealing them to the childlike. Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way! Matthew 11:25-26

“My Father has entrusted everything to me. No one truly knows the Son except the Father, and no one truly knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.” Matthew 11:27

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

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Sometimes we're Saul, sometimes we're Ananias (Acts 9)

God intercedes and brings people into our lives when we need confirmation. This is our last week of the BSF Revelation study and we're doing many new things this coming year for the Exile and Return study. I like to pray over the lesson and think about the Group Leaders and their members interaction. Specifically Question 14 asks, "In what way is God calling you to a deeper trust or greater confidence in His plan for your life and this world?" As members answer this question honestly and share it with the group, we can also be receiving a confirmation if we pray specifically and listen to the Lord. This process is illustrated in Acts 9:10. 

I know in my life, Scott S. was like Ananias to me as was David H. David reached out to me after so many years to reconnect and I'm looking forward to that. 

Seeking (with a salty thirst): His Kingdom and His Righteousness (Matt 5:6,13,6:33, Jer 29:13)

• Saul's version: Saul was uttering threats with every breath and was eager to kill the Lord’s followers - Acts 9:1
• Ananias version:  Now there was a believer (disciple) in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling, “Ananias!” - “Yes, Lord!” he replied. - Acts 9:10

God blesses characteristics of people with promises (Matthew 5:1-12)

• Saul's version: He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” -  “Who are you, lord?” Saul asked. - And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” (Acts 9:4-6)
• Ananias version:  The Lord said, “Go over to Straight Street, to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to me right now. I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again.” - Acts 9:11-12

40 ways to be blessed

Waiting for the promises of God, filling time with love not distraction

Lord help me to wait for you in love, to engage the people you put in my life and heart, with the Spirit of Truth. Amen. 

I often talk back to God like Ananias and the "stay at home" brother of the prodigal. 

“But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem! And he is authorized by the leading priests to arrest everyone who calls upon your name.” Acts 9:13-14

I need to go back to responding "Yes Lord!" Acts 9:10, I'm a believing disciple and will trust in your Way!

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Seeking (with a salty thirst): His Kingdom and His Righteousness (Matt 5:6,13,6:33, Jer 29:13)

One of my brothers favorite verses is "You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. (Jer 29:13)" this came up as I was reading through Matthew 5-13. I know he like journaling in a physical book, and though I gave him a One Step Closer Bible, I have a feeling he won't use it. So I purchased a NLT journaling and note-taking Bible for him.

I was stuck by the idea of people being "the salt of earth", that "lost its flavor. (Matt 5:13). We often talk about the spirit we are born with, verse the Holy Spirit we receive when we are born again (John 3). The big idea from Matthew 5:1-12 is God blesses characteristics of people with promises. These characteristics represent how we view ourselves in relationship with Him. Am I poor and realize my need for him? If so then do I mourn (salty tears) and receive His comfort? Humbly receive my inheritance (rule and subdue the whole earth Gen 1:28)? Hunger and thirst (salt) for justice NLT/righteousness NIV, [those who actively seek right standing with God] AMP. This hunger and thirst is "SATISFIED"

If you're satisfied, you're contented, and you don't need anything more. You're not overjoyed, but you're not complaining either. When something is satisfied, the requirements have been met and nothing more needs to be done. When you pay back the money you owe on a loan, you have satisfied the debt. You sleep well but also wake up energized. 

This progresses in our lives to be merciful and in doing so we are shown mercy. With a pure heart we will see God. We work for peace and are called his children and we're persecuted unjustly as we follow Jesus, actively seeking right standing with God. This is the way of the prophets. 

Discovering Matt 5:6

Psalm 42:1-2: For the choirmaster. A Maskil of the sons of Korah. As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul longs after You, O God. / My soul thirsts for God, the living God. When shall I come and appear in God’s presence?

Isaiah 55:1-2: “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy, and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost! / Why spend money on that which is not bread, and your labor on that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of foods.

John 4:13-14: Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again. / But whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a fount of water springing up to eternal life.”

John 6:35: Jesus answered, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never hunger, and whoever believes in Me will never thirst.

Revelation 7:16-17: ‘Never again will they hunger, and never will they thirst; nor will the sun beat down upon them, nor any scorching heat.’ / For the Lamb in the center of the throne will be their shepherd. ‘He will lead them to springs of living water,’ and ‘God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’”

Psalm 63:1: A Psalm of David, when he was in the Wilderness of Judah. O God, You are my God. Earnestly I seek You; my soul thirsts for You. My body yearns for You in a dry and weary land without water.

Isaiah 44:3: For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and currents on the dry ground. I will pour out My Spirit on your descendants, and My blessing on your offspring.

John 7:37-38: On the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood up and called out in a loud voice, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. / Whoever believes in Me, as the Scripture has said: ‘Streams of living water will flow from within him.’”

Amos 8:11: Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord GOD, when I will send a famine on the land—not a famine of bread or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the LORD.

Psalm 107:9: For He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.

Isaiah 61:1-3: The Spirit of the Lord GOD is on Me, because the LORD has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and freedom to the prisoners, / to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor and the day of our God’s vengeance, to comfort all who mourn, / to console the mourners in Zion—to give them a crown of beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and a garment of praise for a spirit of despair. So they will be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.

Luke 1:53: He has filled the hungry with good things, but has sent the rich away empty.

1 Peter 2:2-3: Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, / now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.

Philippians 3:9-10: and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God on the basis of faith. / I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to Him in His death,

Romans 3:21-22: But now, apart from the law, the righteousness of God has been revealed, as attested by the Law and the Prophets. / And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.

Alleluia, you have saved me - so much better your way, Alleluia! 

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God blesses characteristics of people with promises (Matthew 5:1-12)

 I'm taking a fresh look at Matthew 5 with my brother this week. We're embarking on a study of Matthew 5-13 to gain personal insight on Jesus ministry and his parables. The idea is to read the Bible, write down thoughts and feelings about it and then talk about it next week. My hypothesis is that once you've read through Matthew 5-13 (NLT instead of KJV), the "hidden treasure"  will be "like a treasure that a man discovered" Matthew 13:44. 

I'm noticing Matthew 5:3-11 is different than "blessed are the poor in the spirit" is translated "God blesses those who are poor AND REALIZE THEIR NEED FOR HIM" for the "Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.

The pattern is "God blesses" "those who are" ____ , "for they/theirs is" ______

3) poor and realize need for him, Kingdom of Heaven

4) mourn, comforted

5) humble, inherit the whole earth

6) hunger and thirst for justice, satisfied

7) merciful, shown mercy

8) hearts are pure, will see God

9) work for peace, called children of God

10) persecuted for doing right, Kingdom of Heaven

11) mocked, persecuted with lies, evil words against - because you are my followers, reward in heaven

12) And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.

Matthew 5:1-12) Thoughts and feelings: 

• God blesses people with promises about the Kingdom of Heaven, when they exhibit certain characteristics. He ends these statements with "remember, prophets were persecuted in the same way." 
• The translation of poor in spirit to poor and realize their need for him jumped out at me (v 3). 
• My brother asked me to look for connection of words within words and I discovered "Real Eyes" from being poor in spirit to hearts that are pure they "will see God" (v 8). 
• It's also interesting that our job description is "work for peace" and title is "children of God" (v9). And that the Kingdom of Heaven includes "persecuted for doing right" and being mocked for following Jesus (v10-11). 

Fun to take fresh look without reviewing previous insights.

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40 ways to be blessed

I've been thinking of the beatitudes in Matthew 5 that lead us through the morality and meaning of life Jesus gives in Matthew 6-7. He then explains it again via parables, healing and doing life with his apostles. A friend pointed out to me that the sermon on the mount (clear teaching of Jesus was given to everyone, the crowd) not the apostles only (they were called in Matthew 10:1-5). But people didn't listen and repent, but in Matthew 13 where the teaching comes into focus, he says to his disciples. "Blessed are your ears, eyes, and heart - because you understand." 

I've been persisting in 40Days, imperfectly and decided not to give up. I realized today that my 41 has come today, this Sabbath. A new day. It started 8/14/2021 and ended 4/26/2025. What should have been 5 week and 5 days, took years. I was reviewing this time and looked at day two Sign of Jonah - Listen and repent for salvation and receive true Light (Luke 11:29-36): 

Evaluate is the light I think I have actually darkness? (see Luke 11:24-28 demons)

• Healthy Eye: provides light for your body (Luke 11:28 - blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice)
• Unhealthy Eye: body is filled with darkness (Luke 11:26 - when healed we do nothing, waiting for more evil) 

 So I looked up "blessed" and noticed the New Testament has 40 occurrences of blessed in NLT version.

The Beatitudes comes first but is translated "God blesses" instead of "blessed"

the first time "blessed" occurs is Matthew 13:16, "But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear...", this same phrase is used in Luke 10:23-24 after the 72 are sent out (anyone who accepts your message is also accepting me Luke 10:16) "Then when they were alone, he turned to the disciples and said, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you have seen. I tell you, many prophets and kings longed to see what you see, but they didn’t see it. And they longed to hear what you hear, but they didn’t hear it." - he then explains "Love God, Love People" which happen to be the name of my new BSF Leaders Meeting.

Then loaves and fish: "Then he told the people to sit down on the grass. Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he gave the bread to the disciples, who distributed it to the people." Matthew 14:19, Mark 6:41, Mark 8:7, Luke 9:16

Then the transfiguration: Matthew 16:17, "Jesus replied, “You are blessed, Simon son of John, because my Father in heaven has revealed this to you. You did not learn this from any human being."

Jesus blesses the children: "And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left" Matthew 19:15, Mark 10:16

The King at the end of the age: Matthew 25:34, "Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world."

Communion: "As they were eating, Jesus took some bread and blessed it. Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take this and eat it, for this is my body.” Matthew 26:26, Mark 14:22, Luke 24:30

At his trial: Mark 14:61: But Jesus was silent and made no reply. Then the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?”

Mary's baby: Elizabeth gave a glad cry and exclaimed to Mary, “God has blessed you above all women, and your child is blessed...You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said.” ...For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and from now on all generations will call me blessed. Luke 1:42,45,48

Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. Luke 2:34

The ascension: “And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.”

Then Jesus led them to Bethany, and lifting his hands to heaven, he blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up to heaven. Luke 24:49-51

Then Jesus told him, “You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.” John 20:29, Hebrews 7:7: And without question, the person who has the power to give a blessing is greater than the one who is blessed.

Abraham's Blessing fulfilled in Jesus Christ: You are the children of those prophets, and you are included in the covenant God promised to your ancestors. For God said to Abraham, ‘Through your descendants all the families on earth will be blessed.’ Acts 3:25, Gal 3:8

Christian living

• Acts 20:35: And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”
• Romans 14:22: You may believe there’s nothing wrong with what you are doing, but keep it between yourself and God. Blessed are those who don’t feel guilty for doing something they have decided is right.
• 1 Peter 4:14: If you are insulted because you bear the name of Christ, you will be blessed, for the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you.

Holy Spirit through faith: Through Christ Jesus, God has blessed the Gentiles with the same blessing he promised to Abraham, so that we who are believers might receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith. Gal 3:14

Spiritual united with Christ: All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. Eph 1:3

Good News entrusted: 1 Timothy 1:11, that comes from the glorious Good News entrusted to me by our blessed God. 1 Timothy 6:15: For, At just the right time Christ will be revealed from heaven by the blessed and only almighty God, the King of all kings and Lord of all lords.

Revelation 22:7: “Look, I am coming soon! Blessed are those who obey the words of prophecy written in this book.”

Revelation 22:14: Blessed are those who wash their robes. They will be permitted to enter through the gates of the city and eat the fruit from the tree of life.

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