Thursday, March 31, 2011

Day 90-11

VI From the crossing into Canaan to the reign of Saul - 1422-1065 B.C. ~ cont.
C. Establishment of Judges ~ cont.
3. 3rd Judge - Shamgar (served 1 year, dual judgeship) - Judges 3:31
a. 3rd Apostasy and servitude (Canaan) - Judges 4:-3
b. Ruth and Naomi (of Moab) settle in Bethlehem - Ruth 1:1-22
c. Story of Ruth
(1) Serves - Ruth 2:1-23
(2) Rests - Ruth 3:1-18
(3) Is rewarded  - Ruth 4:1-12
(4) Marries Boaz, birth of Obed (34th gen) - Ruth 4:13-17
{pages 394-399}

Shamgar - Third judge, slew 600 men with an ox goad, only two verses recorded with his name (Judges 3:31 and 5:6).  (Goad?  A rod for prodding the oxen.)

Shamgar - H8044 - Of uncertain derivation; Shamgar, an Israelite judge.

Hitchcock Bible Names Dictionary - named a stranger; he is here a stranger.


Not much information on Shamgar, no notation (that I could find) regarding the length of his judgeship.  Can not track back to his tribe, just the son of Anath.


And Israel apostasies again...it is easy oft times to look at people from the past and wonder how they could have missed the obvious lessons, but truly, are we any different?  Do we learn from other's mistakes?  Do we see the example that Israel was to those that came after her?


Which brings us to one of my favorite books...Ruth.  Awwwww....a love story with multiple layers.

I thoroughly love Father's Word...delight, thrive in and for it...but the story of Ruth, oh so touches my heart.  For the past few years I have primarily delighted in it, hopeful that Father would provide a physical kinsman redeemer (a/k/a a husband) for myself.

However, of late, I am challenged and inspired by Father and HIS provision of THE kinsman redeemer that Christ Jesus is for me.  He who had abundance, ability, provision took this wayward, God hating woman, purchased her out of the market place of sin, chose me to be HIS child, clothed me with HIS righteousness and chooses to call me His.

If Father never deems it prudent or glorifying to Himself to give me to a son of His, I will still say, "It is well with my soul."  For what further could I ask or expect from One who has done so much?

I went browsing for more information on the Kinsman Redeemer, several sites with interesting information.  Here are a few I decided to share:

Kinsman-Redeemer - The Goel  - I liked this one, it uses charts to show distinctions and types.  Very interesting.

Themes That Count in Ruth - REALLY liked this one...I appreciated the literary structure outline and presentation.  Enjoyed the comparisons and word studies.  Will explore this site further.

Our Kinsman Redeemer -  This site listed 4 requirements for a Goel:
Four things were required in order for a kinsman to redeem:
  • He must be near of kin. (Leviticus 25:48; 25:25 Ruth 3:12–13)
  • He must be able to redeem (Ruth 4:4–6). He must be free of any calamity or need of redemption himself.
  • He must be willing to redeem (Ruth 4:6ff)
  • Redemption was completed when the price was completely paid (Leviticus 25:27; Ruth 4:7-11).

Though I have seen lists of 3 which would seem to incorporate able with completed (able = sufficient resource/ability to perform).

Jesus Christ Our Kinsman Redeemer - Liked this one, simple, direct.  Goel requirements:  relationship - resources - willingness.

Doctrine of the Kinsman Redeemer - Detail on this one, dug a bit deeper on technical information.

From Rags to Riches - Enjoyed the flow of the article, showing how, like Ruth, we are all unworthy rags and Father in HIS divine choice, picks, cleans and sanctifies us for HIS glory.

Duties of Kinsman-Redeemers - Thought this one intriguing as it was from the Ehow site.  :-)


Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:  That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.  (Galatians 3:13-14)

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Day 89-11

VI From the crossing into Canaan to the reign of Saul - 1422-1065 B.C. ~ cont.
C. Establishment of Judges ~ cont.
2. 2nd Judge - Ehud (served 80 years) ~ cont.
c. A Levite and his concubine - Judges 19:1-30
d. Civil war - Judges 20:1-48
e. Mourning for the tribe of Benjamin - Judges 21:1-25
{pages 388-394}

Ehud - Raised up by the LORD to deliver Israel from her bondage.  Tribe of Benjamin.  Son of Gera.  Left handed.  Made a two-edged sword and killed the King of Eglon.

H261 - From H258; united; Echud, the name of three Israelites.
  • H258 - Perhaps a primitive root; to unify, that is, (figuratively) collect (one’s thoughts).
And the children of Israel again did evil in the sight of the LORD, when Ehud was dead.  (Judges 4:1)

The LORD judges the tribe of Benjamin for their unwillingness to purge wickedness (homosexuals) from their midst.

Now as they were making their hearts merry, behold, the men of the city, certain sons of Belial, beset the house round about, and beat at the door, and spake to the master of the house, the old man, saying, Bring forth the man that came into thine house, that we may know him.  (Judges 19:22)

Gill's commentary:

bring forth the man that came into thy house, that we may know him; not what manner of person he was, of what country and profession, whither he was going, and what business he had here; but that they might have carnal knowledge of him in an unnatural way, or commit that sin with him which is commonly called sodomy; and the men of Sodom expressed their lust by the same word, Gen_19:5.

I still find it hard to grasp the old man's willingness to offer up his virgin daughter.  I can, somewhat, reconcile about the Levite offering his concubine (she had played the harlot).  God obviously did not allow such treachery to be perpetrated against the virgin, for she is not given.  The concubine is offered, received, used and abused to death.

The Levite totes her corpse home, cuts her in pieces and sends portions to all the tribes of Israel.  All the tribes gather, would appear even Benjamin (Judges 20:3, perhaps the other portion?).  Israel goes to war against Gibeah, request the perpetrators:

Now therefore deliver us the men, the children of Belial, which are in Gibeah, that we may put them to death, and put away evil from Israel. But the children of Benjamin would not hearken to the voice of their brethren the children of Israel:  But the children of Benjamin gathered themselves together out of the cities unto Gibeah, to go out to battle against the children of Israel.  (Judges 20:13-14)

Which perplexes me.  The residents of Gibeah knew there were evil men in their midst.  They should have known the Word of the Lord and His orders concerning the wickedness.  Yet, they tolerated it, to the point of  being willing to fight and defend the wicked.

I could make a larger application to the nations of the world, but think rather, that I should take a very close examination of my own life.  Where am I tolerating sin in the camp?

Israel asked God about going against Benjamin (Judges 20:18), they go out and lose 22,000 men.  Israel asks again (Judges 20:23) and go out again.  They lose 18,000 men.  Israel asks counsel again (Judges 20:26-28). Goes out to battle and lose 30 more men, but draws the people out and smites of Benjamin 25,100 (Judges 20:35) or 25,000 (Judges 20:46).  Six hundred men turn to the wilderness.  If I have computed correctly:

My question, what happened to the other 1000 men?  Even if I take away the 700 men of Gibeah, that would leave 900...still 300 more than the 600 which fled.  Hmmm....okay, Gill's commentary on verse 46:

So that all which fell that day of Benjamin were twenty and thousand men,.... It is before said 25,100 Jdg_20:35 here the one hundred are omitted, and the round number of thousands given, which is no unusual way of speaking and writing; the whole army of Benjamin consisted of 26,700 of which 18,000 were slain in the field of battle, 5000 in the highways, and 2000 at Gidom, in all 25,000; and we may suppose one hundred as they were straggling in the road, or found in by places, or are not mentioned with either of the thousands for the sake of a round number, and six hundred fled to the rock Rimmon; as for the other 1000, it is highly probable, they fell in the two first battles, as Ben Gersom and Abarbinel rightly suppose; for it is not credible, that though they got such amazing victories, it was without the loss of men, and these are as few as well can be imagined. Jarchi thinks these thousand fled to the cities of Benjamin, and were slain when the Israelites entered them, as after related, Jdg_20:48 which is much more probable than a tradition they have, that they went into the land of Romania, and dwelt there. Now all those that were slain were men.

I soooo want to camp on that thought...all were men...while I realize that Israel smote the women and children of that city...the women did NOT go out to war.  War is, in my opinion, one method that God uses to judge nations and women and children did and do suffer.  However, women were never actively sent out to battle.  That was the man's job...and still is, not a woman's.  Stepping off my soap box now.  :-p

Now the men of Israel had sworn in Mizpeh, saying, There shall not any of us give his daughter unto Benjamin to wife.  (Judges 21:1)

And the children of Israel said, Who is there among all the tribes of Israel that came not up with the congregation unto the LORD? For they had made a great oath concerning him that came not up to the LORD to Mizpeh, saying, He shall surely be put to death.   (Judges 21:5)

Curious as to whether sworn and oath are the same and there is an overlap with the word, covenant.  Perusing...

sworn - H7650 - A primitive root; properly to be complete, but used only as a denominative from H7651; to seven oneself, that is, swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times).

H7650 used 186 times in 175 verses.  Used first in Genesis 21:23 of Abraham's request to Abimilech.  Last usage in Malachi, which I found interesting as it is against false swearers as part of a large indictment against those who oppress.

And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts.  (Malachi 3:5)

Usually translated as swear or swore, also used as oath, charge, or adjure.

oath - H7621 - Feminine passive participle of H7650; properly something sworn, that is, an oath.

Used 30 times in 29 verses.  First used in Genesis:

And if the woman will not be willing to follow thee, then thou shalt be clear from this my oath: only bring not my son thither again.  (Genesis 24:8)

I was trying to find the servant's name and came across this article, Eliezer: A Faithful Servant, a challenge to us all, as servants of the Lord, to be diligent in our responsibilities.

Primarily translated as oath, with an occasional swore or curse (Isaiah 65:15), last usage:

And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against his neighbour; and love no false oath: for all these are things that I hate, saith the LORD.  (Zechariah 8:17)

Both of the last usages for oath and swear have false in them...I just have to know if they are the same.  :-D

Both verses, Malachi 3:5 and Zechariah 8:17 are the same.  Not chasing it any further (today) than this:

H8267 - From H8266; an untruth; by implication a sham (often adverbially).
  • H8266 - A primitive root; to cheat, that is, be untrue (usually in words).
Lord, let not Your people be found unprofitable, but continually striving to please You.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.   (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Day 88-11

VI From the crossing into Canaan to the reign of Saul - 1422-1065 B.C. ~ cont.
C. Establishment of Judges ~ cont.
1. 1st Judge - Othniel ~ cont.
i. Israel's backsliding - Judges 2:10-15, 20
j. Some nations left - Judges 2:21-23; 3:1-4, 11
k. 2nd Apostasy and servitude (Moab)
l. Death of Eleazar (apx 130 years) - Joshua 24:33
2. 2nd Judge - Ehud (served 80 years) - Judges 3:15-30
a. Micah's idol worship - Judges 17:1-13
b. Danites invade Laish - Judges 18:1-31
{pages 384-388}

In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes.  (Judges 17:6)

In those days there was no king in Israel: and in those days the tribe of the Danites sought them an inheritance to dwell in; for unto that day all their inheritance had not fallen unto them among the tribes of Israel.  (Judges 18:1)

And it came to pass in those days, when there was no king in Israel, that there was a certain Levite sojourning on the side of mount Ephraim, who took to him a concubine out of Bethlehemjudah.  (Judges 19:1)

In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes.  (Judges 21:25)

The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.  (Proverbs 12:15)

Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.  (Proverbs 21:2)

Why did those verses appeal to me?  Perhaps because of the moral decay and degradation of our society.  We seem to be at a crossroads in this time frame of people doing what is right in their own eyes.  There seems to be a loosely held (if at all) moral absolute of what is right and wrong.  We murder unborn children and call wickedness good and good evil.

My heart is greatly distressed.

The Bride is fragmented into a plethora of denominations and there does not seem to be unity amongst the brethren.  Perhaps I am naive to think that brethren should be able to sit down with the Holy Writ and, in love, wrestle through and come to a firm consensus of what the Word states.

A few men, filled with the Spirit, turned the world upside down, boldly proclaiming the gospel of Christ Jesus.  Father added to the church daily those whom He had called.

Where is that passion?  Where is not counting our lives but as a sacrifice poured out to Him?  Not by just a few *missionaries,* but by all those who are called?  Perhaps it is a vivid vitality I feel is lacking.  Perhaps I am not in a position to *see* all of the bodily outworking of the Spirit (highly probable).  Lord, You have stated that You would pour out Your Spirit upon Your people, where is that dynamic manifestation?

And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:  And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:   And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke:  The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come:  And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.  (Acts 2:17-21)

Which is an echo of Joel:

And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:  And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit.  And I will shew wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke.  The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the LORD come.  And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call.  (Joel 2:28-32)

Have you called unto Him who is faithful and true?

He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.  (The Book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ, 22:20)

Even so, come, Lord Jesus.

Monday, March 28, 2011

Day 87-11

VI From the crossing into Canaan to the reign of Saul - 1422-1065 B.C. ~ cont.
C. Establishment of Judges ~ cont.
1. 1st Judge - Othniel ~ cont.
e. Joshua's farewell - Joshua 23:1-16; 24:1-28; Judges 2:6-7
f. Death of Joshua (110 years) - Joshua 24:29-31; Judges 2:8-9
g. Joseph's bones buried - Joshua 24:32
h. Incomplete victories
(1) Judah (Jerusalem plundered first time) - Judges 1:1-19
(2) Benjamin - Judges 1:22-26
(3) Other tribes - Judges 1:27-36
{pages 379-384}

And the people served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders that outlived Joshua, who had seen all the great works of the LORD, that he did for Israel.  (Judges 2:7)

And Israel served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders that overlived Joshua, and which had known all the works of the LORD, that he had done for Israel.  (Joshua 24:31)

served - H5647 - A primitive root; to work (in any sense); by implication to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc.  {Used 288 times in 261 verses.}

First usage in Genesis 2:5 - And every plant of the field before it was in the earth, and every herb of the field before it grew: for the LORD God had not caused it to rain upon the earth, and there was not a man to till the ground.

Last usage in Malachi 3:18 - Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.

known - H3045 - A primitive root; to know (properly to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including observation, care, recognition; and causatively instruction, designation, punishment, etc.).  {Used 946 times in 873 verses.}

First usage in Genesis 3:5 - For God doth know that in the day ye eat, thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.

Last usage in Malachi 2:4 - And ye shall know that I have sent this commandment unto you, that my covenant might be with Levi, saith the LORD of hosts.

seen - H7200 - A primitive root; to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitively, intransitively and causatively).  {Used 1308 times in 1208 verses.}

First usage in Genesis 1:4 - And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.

Last usage in Malachi 3:18 - Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.

did/done - H6213 - A primitive root; to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application.  {Used 2633 times in 2287 verses.}

First usage in Genesis 1:7- And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.

Last usage in Malachi 4:3- And ye shall tread down the wicked; for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet in the day that I shall do this, saith the LORD of hosts.

The verses which I opened with resonated within me primarily because of the negligent state of the Bride.  It is too easy to forget the good the Lord has done for us and to fail to serve HIM fully.  I am guilty of becoming focused on the dilemma versus the deliverer.

O Lord, help us, Your people, to see the magnificent works that Your hands have wrought in selecting those whom You have called to be Your children.  May we continually be focused upon You and serving You where ever You may place us.  Lord, let us not be weary or fainthearted when difficulties arise.  Help us to keep our eyes upon You and to make our calling and election sure.  Lord, help us to see as You, to see Your vision, Your plan, Your purpose, to give a proper estimate of You.

Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.  (Proverbs 29:18)

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Day 86-11

VI From the crossing into Canaan to the reign of Saul - 1422-1065 B.C. ~ cont.
B. The division of Cannan ~ cont.
2. Portions set aside ~ cont.
c. The Lord's faithfulness fulfilled - Joshua 21:43-45
d. 2 1/2 tribes sent to their homes, east of Jordan - Joshua 22:1-34
C. Establishment of Judges - Judges 2:16-19
1. 1st Judge - Othniel
a. 1st apostasy and servitude (Mesopotamia) - Judges 3:5-8
b. Othniel delivers (served 40 years) - Judges 3:9-10
c. Birth of Boaz (35th generation) (Son of Salmon/Rahab)
d. 1st Jubilee Year (Leviticus 25:10)
{pages 376-379}

Phinehas - H6372 - Apparently from H6310 and a variation of H5175; mouth of a serpent; Phinehas, the name of three Israelites.
  • H6310 - From H6284; the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literally or figuratively (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with preposition) according to.
  • H5175 - From H5172; a snake (from its hiss).
Phinehas name is mentioned 25 times in Scripture (several of those are for the son of Eli).  Who is this Phinehas?  Son of Eleazar, grandson of Aaron. Levitical priest who withstood the Moabites marrying with the Israelites, spearing Zimri and Cozbi.  This valor was rewarded by God with a covenant of peace (Numbers 25:12) and a covenant of an everlasting priesthood (Numbers 25:13).  Moses sent him to war with the holy instruments and the trumpets.  Partook of the contingency which confronted the children of Reuben, Gad and the 1/2 tribe of Manasseh about the altar they built.  Asked counsel of the Lord regarding the tribes of Israel attacking their brother Benjamin.  Begat Abishua and, if I counted correctly, was the great (x11) grandfather of Ezra the prophet.  Mentioned in the Psalms thus:

Then stood up Phinehas, and executed judgment: and so the plague was stayed. And that was counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore.  (Psalm 106:30-31)

Othniel - H6274 - From the same as H6273 and H410; force of God; Othniel, an Israelite.
  • H6273 - From an unused root meaning to force; forcible; Othni, an Israelite.
  • H410 - Shortened from H352; strength; as adjective mighty; especially the Almighty (but used also of any deity.
Othniel mentioned 7 times in Scripture.  Son of Kenaz.  Nephew of Caleb.  Warrior worthy of his hire, won Caleb's daughter (Achsah) by taking Kirjathsepher.  The children of Israel cried unto the Lord and HE raised up Othniel as a deliverer.  Provided the land rest for 40 years (trials, probations and testings).  Father to Hathath.  Possible descendant, Heldai, served in the courses of the King (1 Chronicles 27:15 - questionable, can not verify).

Both worthy men, full of courage, honor and fervency for the Lord, to execute HIS decrees and follow the Lord.  Men who inspired others to stand to the test of being men of God and inspired others to follow them as they battled for the Lord and His righteousness.

Father, Your Bride is in need of such warriors this day.  Raise up men of character and integrity to boldly proclaim your truth.  Men who will swear to their own hurt and change not from the course You have given them.

Father raise up women of strength and nobility, who will support and encourage the Bride, working alongside and aiding the members in helping to proclaim Your gospel throughout the nations.

Father bless Your people with wisdom, discernment, guidance and strength to go forth without fear or trepidation.  To be bold and courageous, not counting our lives anything other than a sacrifice poured out to Thee.

That we might proclaim as Paul:

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.   (Acts 20:24)

Saturday, March 26, 2011

Day 85-11

VI From the crossing into Canaan to the reign of Saul - 1422-1065 B.C. ~ cont.
B. The division of Cannan ~ cont.
1. Division among the 9 1/2 tribes ~ cont.
f. Remaining tribes ~ cont.
(4) Issachar - Joshua 19:17-23
(5) Asher - Joshua 19:24-31
(6) Naphtali - Joshua 19:32-39
(7) Dan - Joshua 19:40-48
g. Joshua's portion - Joshua 19:49-51
2. Portions set aside
a. Cities of refuge - Joshua 20:1-9
b. Cities of the Levites - Joshua 13:14, 33; 21:1-42; 1 Chronicles 6:54-81
{pages 371-376}

Divide.  I was chuckling over the mathematical and/or bookkeeping terms used in the Word.  Divide, add, multiply, reconcile, etc.

A quick search brought up the word, divide 49 times throughout the whole counsel of God, only twice in the NT.

Searching for the Hebrew and/or Greek words translated divide.

H914 - A primitive root; to divide (in various senses literally or figuratively, separate, distinguish, differ, select, etc.). {42x in 40 verses}

And he saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.  (Genesis 1:4)

H2505 - A primitive root; to be smooth (figuratively); by implication (as smooth stones were used for lots) to apportion or separate.  {65x in 64 verses}

And he divided himself against them, he and his servants, by night, and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which is on the left hand of Damascus.  (Genesis 14:15)

H1234 - A primitive root; to cleave; generally to rend, break, rip or open.  {51x in 50 verses}

In the six hundredth year of Noah's life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened.  (Genesis 7:11)

H2673 - A primitive root (compare H2686); to cut or split in two; to halve.  {15x in 14 verses}

Then Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed: and he divided the people that was with him, and the flocks, and herds, and the camels, into two bands;  (Genesis 32:7)

H6536 - A primitive root; to break in pieces, that is, (usually without violence) to split, distribute.  {14x in 12 verses}

Whatsoever parteth the hoof, and is clovenfooted, and cheweth the cud, among the beasts, that shall ye eat.  (Leviticus 11:3)

H5157 - A primitive root; to inherit (as a (figurative) mode of descent), or (generally) to occupy; causatively to bequeath, or (generally) distribute, instate.  {59x in 57 verses}

By little and little I will drive them out from before thee, until thou be increased, and inherit the land.  (Exodus 23:30)

H5307 - A primitive root; to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitively or causatively, literally or figuratively).  {434x in 403 verses}

And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;  (Genesis 2:21)

H1504 - A primitive root; to cut down or off; (figuratively) to destroy, divide, exclude or decide.  {13x in 13 verses}

And the king said, Divide the living child in two, and give half to the one, and half to the other.  (1 King 3:25)

H6385 - A primitive root; to split (literally or figuratively).  {4x in 4 verses}

And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of one was Peleg; for in his days was the earth divided; and his brother's name was Joktan.  (Genesis 10:25)

H6565 - A primitive root; to break up (usually figuratively, that is, to violate, frustrate).   {51x in 47 verses}

And the uncircumcised man child whose flesh of his foreskin is not circumcised, that soul shall be cut off from his people; he hath broken my covenant.  (Genesis 17:14)

G1266 - From G1223 and G3307; to partition thoroughly (literally in distribution, figuratively in dissension).  {12x in 11 verses}

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

G3307 - From G3313; to part, that is, (literally) to apportion, bestow, share, or (figuratively) to disunite, differ.  {14x in 13 verses}

And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:  (Matthew 12:25)

I thought it interesting that all the Hebrew words are primitive root.  Decided I would go back and put the 1st verse for each word usage in...to help me (hopefully) get a better grasp of the word.

A quick search...thought I would only find words about land division in Joshua.  :-)

H1234 - used twice, about the Gibeonites and rent wine bottles.

H5157 - used 9 times, translated as inheritance.

H5307 - used 15 times in 14 verses, translated as fallen, fell, fall down, fell down, liest, lot, failed.

H2505 - used 7 times, translated as divide, divided, received, dividing.

I appreciated the encouragement of this verse:

And, behold, this day I am going the way of all the earth: and ye know in all your hearts and in all your souls, that not one thing hath failed of all the good things which the LORD your God spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, and not one thing hath failed thereof.   (Joshua 23:14)

My heavenly father's hand is not slack concerning His promises.  What He has said He will do, He does.  I am encouraged by the confidence I find in the character of the Most Holy One to do, and bring to pass all that He said He would and will do.

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:  (Philippians 1:6)

Friday, March 25, 2011

Day 84-11

VI From the crossing into Canaan to the reign of Saul - 1422-1065 B.C. ~ cont.
B. The division of Cannan ~ cont.
1. Division among the 9 1/2 tribes ~ cont.
d. Joseph's portion (Ephraim and 1/2 of Manasseh) - Joshua 16:1-10, 17:1-18
e. Tabernacle at Shiloh - Joshua 18:1
f. Remaining tribes - Joshua 18:2-10
(1) Benjamin - Joshua 18:11-28
(2) Simeon - Joshua 19:1-9; 1 Chronicles 4:28-33
(3) Zebulun - Joshua 19:10-16
{pages 367- 371}

And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.  (1 Thessalonians 5:23)

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Day 83-11

VI From the crossing into Canaan to the reign of Saul - 1422-1065 B.C. ~ cont.
B. The division of Cannan
1. Division among the 9 1/2 tribes - Joshua 13:7; 14:1-5
a. Caleb's portion - Joshua 14:6-15; 15:13-19; Judges 1:20, 10-16; 1 Chronicles 6:56
b. Israel's first sabbatical year (Leviticus 25:4)
c. Judah's portion - Joshua 15:1-12, 20-63, Judges 1:21
{pages 363-367}


I am a visual/kinetic learner...or maybe it is kinetic/visual...anyway...pictures help me to visually place who, what, where, when, why and how.  Perhaps this will be a blessing to someone else.  :-)

I thought the next few verses encouraging:

Nevertheless my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the people melt: but I wholly followed the LORD my God.  (Joshua 14:8)

Hebron therefore became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite unto this day, because that he wholly followed the LORD God of Israel.  (Joshua 14:14)

wholly - H4390 - A primitive root, to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively).

Used 251 times in 243 verses.  It is first used in Genesis 1:22 when God spoke to the water dwelling creatures to fill the seas.

I was interested in the wholly followed, wondering if the same could be said of me.  Will I, at that last day, hear:

His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.  (Matthew 25:21)

Reflecting, praying and digesting the fact that Caleb gave his daughter to wife.  I chased that through Scripture for a bit.  Still mulling it over.  I had always wondered why at weddings the question was, "Who gives this woman?" and why?

One can not give what is not his...and the thought of ownership of another person is hard for me to digest.  Our culture and its teachings of feminism and autonomy have taken a toll on how I think and perceive things.  That a daughter would be so valued and treasured as to have the intimacy of her father in helping to choose her marriage partner is an intriguing thought.

I particularly liked Calebs method of selecting a suitable mate...one who could demonstrate initiative, planning, and follow through.  Othniel was a man of courage.  Determined.  Focused.  Someone Caleb could trust to provide, protect and defend his daughter.  O for more men of Caleb and Othniel's character.

Lord, we stand in great need of men of godly character and conduct.  Men who can and do study the Word of God, who rightly divide it.  Who boldly proclaim the truth, who value women as treasured vessels, treating Your daughters with gentleness, kindness and integrity.  O Lord, raise up a multitude of saints who will stand firm for You w/out being arrogant, proud or haughty.  Let the boldness of Your people be because of their trust in You, not in earthly knowledge and may Your name be glorified and magnified throughout the earth.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Day 82-11

VI From the crossing into Canaan to the reign of Saul - 1422-1065 B.C. ~ cont.
A. The conquest of Canaan ~ cont.
3. Invasion and conquest ~ cont.
b. Southern campaign
(1) Gibeons long day - Joshua 10:1-27
(2) Other victories - Joshua 10:28-43
c. Northern campaign - Joshua 11:1-14
d. Result of conquests: REST  - Joshua 11:15-23
e. Victories reviewed - Joshua 12:7-24
f. More land available - Joshua 13:1-6
{pages 358-362}

A few verses caught my attention while reading, sharing.

That they feared greatly, because Gibeon was a great city, as one of the royal cities, and because it was greater than Ai, and all the men thereof were mighty.  (Joshua 10:2)

Watching a 'great' city capitulate to the 'enemy' must have been an extreme moral busting phenomenon.

And the LORD said unto Joshua, Fear them not: for I have delivered them into thine hand; there shall not a man of them stand before thee.  (Joshua 10:8)

I had this one marked because of the fear not.  :-D

And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, and were in the going down to Bethhoron, that the LORD cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword.  (Joshua 10:11)

I liked this one because the LORD fought against them and smote more with the hailstones than those who were slain by the sword of a man.  I need to remember that the Lord can fight the battle or give me the ability to stand through it.  The victory is always HIS.

Then spake Joshua to the LORD in the day when the LORD delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon.  And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day.  And there was no day like that before it or after it, that the LORD hearkened unto the voice of a man: for the LORD fought for Israel.   (Joshua 10:12-14)

A whole day.

And Joshua said unto them, Fear not, nor be dismayed, be strong and of good courage: for thus shall the LORD do to all your enemies against whom ye fight.  (Joshua 10:25)

All your enemies...all.  H3605 - From H3634; properly the whole; hence all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense).

31 kings defeated:

~ Jericho ~ fragrant
~ Ai ~ mass or heap
~ Jerusalem ~ founded peaceful
~ Hebron ~ society/friendship
~ Jarmuth ~ elevation
~ Lachish ~ who walks or exists of himself
~ Eglon ~ vituline (of or pertaining to a calf) - frisking
~ Gezer ~ dividing, sentence
~ Debir ~ an orator, a word
~ Geder ~ a wall
~ Hormah ~ devoted
~ Arad ~ sequester, fugitive
~ Libnah ~ white, whiteness
~ Adullam ~ their testimony, their prey, their ornament
~ Makkedah ~ herding
~ Bethel ~ house of God
~ Tappuah ~ apple (from its fragrance)
~ Hepher ~ pit or shame
~ Aphek ~ (in the sense of strength) fortress
~ Lasharon ~ plain
~ Madon ~ extensiveness
~ Hazor ~ village
~ Shimronmeron ~ guard of lashing
~ Achshaph ~ fascination
~ Taanach ~ who humbles thee
~ Megiddo ~ rendezvous
~ Kedesh ~ sanctum
~ Jokneam ~ people will be lamented
~ Dor ~ dwelling
~ Gilgal ~ wheel
~ Tirzah ~ delightsomeness

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Day 81-11

VI From the crossing into Canaan to the reign of Saul - 1422-1065 B.C. ~ cont.
A. The conquest of Canaan ~ cont.
3. Invasion and conquest ~ cont.
a. Central campaign ~ cont.
(4) Victory at Ai - Joshua 8:-1-29
(5) Altar built at Mt. Ebal (Deuteronomy 27:4) - Joshua 8:30-35
(6) Gibeonites (Hivites) spared - Joshua 9:1-27; Judges 2:1-5
{pages 354-358}

Fear not...that phrase is found 63 times in Scripture.  Fear not opens up today's reading in Joshua 8:1.

fear - H3372 - A primitive root; to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten.

not - H408 - A negative particle (akin to H3808); not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (Job_24:25) as a noun, nothing.

After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision saying fear not, Abram I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.  (Genesis 15:1)

God says it to Abram ~ God says it to Hagar ~ God says it to Isaac ~ Midwife to Rachel ~ Joseph's steward to the sons of Jacob ~ God says it to Jacob/Israel ~ Joseph says it to his brothers ~ Moses says it to Israel at the Red Sea ~ Moses says it to the people after they heard God speak and were fearful ~ God says it to Moses about the king of Bashan ~ Moses to the people regarding taking the land ~ the priest to speak unto the people about going into battle ~ God says it to Joshua ~ Joshua says it to the warriors fighting against the kings of the land whom they were to slay ~ Jael says it to Sisera ~ Lord says it to Gideon ~ Boaz says it to Ruth ~ midwives to Phinehas' wife ~ Samuel says it to the people ~ David says it to Abithar ~ Jonathan says it to David ~ Saul says it to the medium ~ David says it to Mephibosheth ~ Absalom says it to his servants in killing his brother Amnon ~ Elijah says it to the widow woman ~ angel of the LORD says it to Elijah ~ Elisha says it to his servant ~ Isaiah says it to Hezekiah ~ Gedaliah says it to Ishmael, Johanan, Seraiah, and Jaazaniah ~ David says it to Solomon ~ Lord via Zechariah to the inhabits of Jerusalem ~ Hezekiah to the people of Jerusalem ~ Nehemiah to the people ~ references in the Psalms and Proverbs ~ Lord GOD to the people who dwell in Zion ~ Isaiah to the people ~ LORD to Jeremiah ~ God via Jeremiah to the people about false gods ~ Lord to Israel ~ Lord GOD to Ezekiel ~ heavenly servant to Daniel ~ Joel to the people ~ Joel to the beasts of the field ~ Zephaniah to Jerusalem ~ Lord via Haggai to the people ~ LORD via Zechariah to Israel and Judah

Quite a lot of fear not reminders in the OT.  What about the NT, just using the phrase 'fear not'?

Angel of the Lord to Joseph ~ Jesus to disciples about persecution, death ~ angel to Mary Magdalene and the other Mary ~ angel to Zacharias ~ angel to Mary (mother of Jesus) ~ angel to the shepherds ~ Jesus to Simon ~ Jesus to the ruler of synagogue about his daughter ~ Jesus to daughter of  Sion ~ angel of God to Paul ~ Paul to servants about masters ~ Son of Man to John on the Isle of Patmos

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.  (2 Timothy 1:7)

So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.  (Hebrews 13:6)

It is easy to be fearful and afraid, I take comfort in Father's provision, repeatedly, throughout HIS Word in reminding me of those who have gone before to not fear or fear not.  He is more than sufficient to provide and protect HIS people and bring them to the exact place, at the exact time, in the exact condition HE wants.

And he wrote there upon the stones a copy of the law of Moses, which he wrote in the presence of the children of Israel.  (Joshua 8:32)

wrote - H3789 - A primitive root; to grave; by implication to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe).

copy - H4932 - From H8138; properly a repetition, that is, a duplicate (copy of a document), or a double (in amount); by implication a second (in order, rank, age, quality or location).
  • H8138 - A primitive root; to fold, that is, duplicate (literally or figuratively (); by implication to transmute (transitively or intransitively).
Not the whole law?  I browsed Gill and Henry - enjoyed Henry, sharing:

1. The law of the ten commandments was written upon stones in the presence of all Israel, as an abridgment of the whole, Jos_8:32. This copy was not graven in the stone, as that which was reserved in the ark: That was to be done only by the finger of God; it is his prerogative to write the law in the heart. But the stones were plastered, and it was written upon the plaster, Deu_27:4, Deu_27:8. It was written, that all might see what it was that they consented to, and that it might be a standing remaining testimony to posterity of God's goodness in giving them such good laws, and a testimony against them if they were disobedient to them. It is a great mercy to any people to have the law of God in writing, and it is fit that the written law should be exposed to common view in a known tongue, that it may be seen and read of all men.

And the men took of their victuals, and asked not counsel at the mouth of the Lord.  (Joshua 9:14)

I have always wondered why Joshua and the people continued to keep the league made with the Gibeonites.  Our ladies bible study teacher recently did a study on covenants and explained the significance of making a covenant.  If you would like to view, it is available for download, here.

And Joshua made peace with them, and made a league with them, to let them live: and the princes of the congregation sware unto them.  (Joshua 9:15)

peace - H7965 - From H7999; safe, that is, (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, that is, health, prosperity, peace.  {236x in 208 verses}
  • H7999 - A primitive root; to be safe (in mind, body or estate); figuratively to be (causatively make) completed; by implication to be friendly; by extension to reciprocate (in various applications).
league - H1285 - From H1262 (in the sense of cutting (like H1254)); a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh).  {284x in 264 verses}
  • H1262 - A primitive root; to select; also (as denominative from H1250) to feed; also (as equivalent to H1305) to render clear (Ecc_3:18).
sware - H7650 - A primitive root; properly to be complete, but used only as a denominative from H7651; to seven oneself, that is, swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times).  {186x in 175 verses}

Reputation?

Joshua 9:9-10 - Gibeonites heard of the fame of him (the Lord thy God), all HE did in Egypt, two kings of Amorites, king of Hesbon, king of Bashan.

And they answered Joshua, and said, Because it was certainly told thy servants, how that the LORD thy God commanded his servant Moses to give you all the land, and to destroy all the inhabitants of the land from before you, therefore we were sore afraid of our lives because of you, and have done this thing.  (Joshua 9:24)

What do our actions, or lack thereof, say about how we view the Sovereign Lord?  Do we boldly step out and follow HIS leading, even when we *see* giants in the land?  Are we fearful and afraid?  More concerned about our temporal bodies, houses, lives?  O Lord, how horribly I fail in laying down my life and all that I have (or think I *have*) to surrender completely to Your will, Your way, Your plan.  Lord, help me NOT to be stubborn and rebellious against You.  Father, cleanse me fresh daily, stirring, growing, creating a deeper craving desire to know You more intimately.  To trust You fully, to accomplish all that is within Your heart, all to Your glory and honor.

For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it.  (Mark 8:35)

Monday, March 21, 2011

Day 80-11 ~ cont.

:-)  I had a few other items that tickled my curiosity...so today is a two-fer.

Rahab the Harlot

Rahab - H7343 - The same as H7342; proud; Rachab, a Canaanitess.
  • H7342 - From H7337; roomy, in any (or every) direction, literally or figuratively.
Used 5 times in 5 verses.  Not the Rahab mentioned in Psalm 87:4, 89:10, or Isaiah 51:9 (an epithet of Egypt).

harlot - H2181 - A primitive root (highly fed and therefore wanton); to commit adultery (usually of the female, and less often of simple fornication, rarely of involuntary ravishment); figuratively to commit idolatry (the Jewish people being regarded as the spouse of Jehovah).

Used 93 times in 82 verses.  The first usage:

And they said, Should he deal with our sister as with a harlot?  (Genesis 34:31)

And it came to pass, as soon as Gideon was dead, that the children of Israel turned again, and went a whoring after Baalim, and made Baalberith their god.  (Judges 8:33)

For a whore is a deep ditch, and a strange woman is a narrow pit.  (Proverbs 23:27)

I will do these things unto thee, because thou hast gone a whoring after the heathen, and because thou art polluted with their idols. (Ezekiel 23:30)

I know the the Lord is speaking to Judah (Israel was already in captivity), but wonder how appropriate this message is to the Bride today?  I find it quite sad that the people of the Lord do not look, talk and/or act much different than those to whom we are to be ambassadors.

The Walls of Jericho - the Israelites had walked around the walls 7 days.  I never stopped to think that one of those days must have been a Sabbath.  It would be interesting to know which one...and if the 7th day of victory was the Sabbath.

I was curious about the walls of Jericho and the archeology...so...browsing and found:

The Walls of Jericho - this one has a video (end of the page) which launches once the page is loaded.

Answers In Genesis - this one has similar information to the one above.

Israel-a-history-of - The Walls of Jericho - this site was interesting, though the page loaded odd, had some additional information.

Day 80-11

VI From the crossing into Canaan to the reign of Saul - 1422-1065 B.C. ~ cont.
A. The conquest of Canaan ~ cont.
2. Crossing the Jordan ~ cont.
b. Camp at Gilgal - Joshua 4:19-24; 5:1
c. Circumcision - Joshua 5:2-9
d. Change of food
(1) First Passover in Canaan - Joshua 5:10
(2) Israel eats old corn of Canaan - Joshua 5;11
(3) Manna ceases as Canaan's fruit available - Joshua 5:12
3. Invasion and conquest
a. Central campaign
(1) Conquest of Jericho - Joshua 6:1; 5:13-15; 6:2-20
(2) Rahab spared (marries Salmon) - Joshua 6:21-27
(3) Defeat at Ai, Achan's sin - Joshua 7:1-26
{pages 350-354}

Circumcision.  A topic worth more than a mere blog posting upon.  However, I am going to begin some preliminary research and share it here.

Circumcision - found 36x in 32 verses.

At that time the LORD said unto Joshua, Make thee sharp knives, and circumcise again the children of Israel the second time.  (Joshua 5:2)

Circumcised - found 39x in 34 verses.

Circumcise - found 10x in 10 verses.

Now...what is the Hebrew word?  Greek word?

H4135 - A primitive root; to cut short, that is, curtail (specifically the prepuce, that is, to circumcise); by implication to blunt; figuratively to destroy. {37x in 33 verses}

H4139 - From H4135; circumcision.  {1x - Exodus 4:26}

H5243 - A primitive root; to become clipped or (specifically) circumcised.  {4x in 4 verses}

G203 - From G206 and probably a modified form of πόσθη posthē (the penis or male sexual organ); the prepuce; by implication an uncircumcised (that is, gentile, figuratively unregenerate) state or person.  {20x in 17 verses}
  • G206 - Neuter of an adjective probably akin to the base of G188; the extremity.
G4059 - From G4012 and the base of G5114; to cut around, that is, (specifically) to circumcise.  {18x in 16 verses}

G4061 - From G4059; circumcision (the rite, the condition or the people, literally or figuratively).  {36x in 32 verses}

Now the question is, who is allowed/commanded to be circumcised, why and where are they circumcised?

H4135 - Abraham, every male child, born in the house, any male bought with money, token of a covenant, flesh of foreskin (male organ), everlasting covenant, uncircumcised is cut off from covenant, required men of Shechem (to debilitate for destruction), to partake of Passover, foreskin of heart.

(Gen 17:10-14; 17:23-27; 21:4; 34:15, 17, 22, 24; Exodus 12:44, 48; Leviticus 12:3; Deuteronomy 10:16; 30:6; Joshua 5:2-5, 7-8; Jeremiah 4:4)

H5243 - Used in Job 14:2, 18:16, 24:24 and Psalm 37:2 as cut off - flowers, branch, ears of corn, and grass.

G4059 - Circumcision of John the Baptist, Jesus, review of who/why circumcision, Jewish physically circumcised believers trying to convince physically uncircumcised believers of the necessity of fulfilling the law, first council of Jerusalem refutes necessity of physical circumcision, Paul circumcises Timothy but not Titus, Paul continues to reiterate the NON necessity of physical circumcision.

G4061 - Recap of OT circumcision, those believing Hebrews physically circumcised astounded at the outpouring of the HS on non physically circumcised people, Peter contents with physically circumcised about eating with Gentiles, physical circumcision does not avail, Abraham's imputed righteousness while physically uncircumcised, Jesus Christ minister of circumcision, gospel message ambassadors to circumcised (Jewish) versus uncircumcised (heathen, Gentiles), circumcision/non-circumcision availeth nothing - faith by love and/or new creature, no confidence in the flesh but rejoice in the spirit, Paul's credentials, vain talkers and deceivers.

In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in the putting off of the body of sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:  (Colossians 2:11)

For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:  But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.  (Romans 2:28-29)

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Day 79-11

VI From the crossing into Canaan to the reign of Saul - 1422-1065 B.C.
A. The conquest of Canaan
1. Israel prepares to invade
a. God instructs Joshua - Joshua 1:1-9
b. Rahab protects spies - Joshua 2:1-21
c. Spies hidden three days - Joshua 2:22-24
d. Joshua instructs people - Joshua 1:10-17
e. Move closer to Jordan - Joshua 3:1
f. The Ark's importance - Joshua 3:2-13
2. Crossing the Jordan - Joshua 3:14-17
a. Memorial stones placed - Joshua 4:1-18; Psalm 114:1-8
{pages 345-350}

There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.  (Joshua 1:5)

I need that encouragement today, coupled with the 'be strong and of good courage' reminders sprinkled through out today's reading.  It is highly unlikely that I will have to physically do battle today.  Spiritually though, it is a constant battle to corral this vessel (spirit, soul and body) to not give into the flesh.

not - H3808 - lo; a primitive particle; not (the simple or abstract negation); by implication no; often used with other particles.

fail - H7503 - A primitive root; to slacken (in many applications, literally or figuratively).

Translated as:  go ~ idle ~ forsake ~ alone ~ fail ~ slack ~ abated ~ draweth ~ respite ~ stay ~ feeble ~ weak ~ weakened ~ leave ~ go ~ cease ~ be still ~ slothful ~ faint ~ consumeth ~ let down (used 46x in 45 verses).  I particularly liked this one:

Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.  (Psalm 46:10)

forsake - H5800 - A primitive root; to loosen, that is, relinquish, permit, etc.

215 hits in 206 verses...okay, sharing a couple of usages.  :-)

Therefore shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.  (Genesis 2:24)

And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.  (Ruth 1:16)

He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth.  (Proverbs 10:17)

Not fail is used 16x, be strong 32x, good courage 16x...heh, interesting 16 + 16 = 32.

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.  (Joshua 1:8)

not - H3808 - lo; a primitive particle; not (the simple or abstract negation); by implication no; often used with other particles.

depart - H4185 - A primitive root (perhaps rather the same as H4184 through the idea of receding by contact); to withdraw (both literally and figuratively, whether intransitively or transitively).

meditate - H1897 - A primitive root (compare H1901); to murmur (in pleasure or anger); by implication to ponder.

Meditate is used 25x in 24 verses ~ sharing a few:

My lips shall not speak wickedness, nor my tongue utter deceit.  (Job 27:4)

But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in his law doth he meditate day and night.  (Psalm 1:2)

Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?  (Psalm 2:1)

The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment.  (Psalm 37:30)

For their heart studieth destruction, and their lips talk of mischief.  (Proverbs 24:2)

Book of the law - that particular phrase is used 19x - 3 in Deuteronomy, 5 in Joshua, 3 in 2 Kings, 3 in 2 Chronicles, 4 in Nehemiah and 1 in Galatians.

I can not know what I have not studied.  I can not know HIM if I partake lightly of HIS fare.  O Father, give unto Thy people a ravenous, unsatiated desire to feast upon Thy Word daily.  Meditating upon it, savoring it upon the tongue of our mind, feeling the fresh juice of it penetrate our world weary parched souls.  O Lord, help us to seek to suck the very marrow from the Your Holy Word.  Give us a desire to be nourished and brought into a deeper and more intimate relationship with Thee.

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  (2 Timothy 2:15)

Saturday, March 19, 2011

Day 78-11

V From the Exodus to the Crossing into Canaan - 1462-1422 B.C. ~ cont.
(1462 - 982 480 years of 1 Kings 6:1)
D. From Kadesh-Barnea to crossing of Jordan ~ cont.
5. Settling down in plains of Moab, east of Jordan ~ cont.
v. Death of Moses (120 years) - Deuteronomy 34:1-7
w. Thirty days of mourning ends - Deuteronomy 34:8-12
x. Joshua, the new leader - Deuteronomy 34:9
6. Psalms summing up previous history - Psalms 78:12-66, 105:16-45, 106:1-33, 135:1-20
{pages 340-345}

And Moses went up from the plains of Moab unto the mountain of Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, that is over against Jericho. And the LORD shewed him all the land of Gilead, unto Dan, And all Naphtali, and the land of Ephraim, and Manasseh, and all the land of Judah, unto the utmost sea, And the south, and the plain of the valley of Jericho, the city of palm trees, unto Zoar. And the LORD said unto him, This is the land which I sware unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, saying, I will give it unto thy seed: I have caused thee to see it with thine eyes, but thou shalt not go over thither.  (Deuteronomy 34:1-4)

My first thought, God gave Moses some type of improved eyesight.  I am wondering if the land just delineated is the land lease given to Abraham, or if this is actually the land that Israel is about to inhabit?  Either way that is a lot of land to view.

And Moses was an hundred and twenty years old when he died: his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated.  (Deuteronomy 34:7)

Then this passage that Moses' eye was not dim...though as I prayerfully pondered upon it...all that we have, whether it is good sight or weakened, is in HIS hand.  Praying that Father would allow my natural force not to abate until HE calls me home.  That I would have vigor and mobility and clarity of mind, boldly proclaiming Him until my last breath.

Momentary hmmm, better check and see what natural force means:

H3893 - From the same as H3892; freshness, that is, vigor.
  • H3892 - From an unused root meaning to be new; fresh, that is, unused or undried.
And only used once.  Interesting.

Egypt = Ham?  

And smote all the firstborn in Egypt; the chief of their strength in the tabernacles of Ham:  (Psalm 78:51)

Israel also came into Egypt; and Jacob sojourned in the land of Ham.  (Psalm 105:23)

They shewed his signs among them, and wonders in the land of Ham.  (Psalm 105:27)

Egypt - H4714 - Dual of H4693; Mitsrajim, that is, Upper and Lower Egypt.

  • H4693 - The same as H4692 in the sense of a limit; Egypt (as the border of Palestine).
Ham - H2526 - The same as H2525; hot (from the tropical habitat); Cham, a son of Noah; also (as a patronymic) his descendants or their country.
  • H2525 - From H2552; hot.
  • H2552 - A primitive root; to be hot (literally or figuratively).
An interesting side study (for another time) on the origins of all the nations.  I did a tad bit of browsing and came up with a few sites below.

Answers in Genesis had a great chart for the Table of the Nations.

I found this site to be interesting based upon the charts and pictures, but have not had the time to read in depth.  Some of the word usage in the article (as I skimmed through) caused me concern, namely 'breeding' (humans do not breed, we procreate) and race.  We are all of the human race, we have ethnic and cultural diversities.  Race is a word meant to elevate or devalue people based upon color, education, intelligence, etc.

This site had several charts showing the descendants of Shem, Ham and Japheth.  I did not read the article in its entirety.  Be a Berean.  :-)

Signs and wonders in Egypt/Ham, God:

Sent ~ darkness
Made ~ it dark
Turned ~ water into blood
Slew ~ fish
Brought ~ frogs in abundance
Spake ~ flies/lice in all their coasts
Gave ~ hail for rain/flaming fire
Smote ~ vines/fig trees
Brake ~ trees of their coasts
Spake ~ locusts/caterpillars w/out number
Smote ~ firstborn
Brought ~ them (Israel) forth - (notably w/out one feeble person amongst them)

For the LORD hath chosen Jacob unto himself, and Israel for his peculiar treasure.  (Psalm 135:4)

chosen - H977 - A primitive root; properly to try, that is, (by implication) select.

Used 169 times in 161 verses.  The first usage is in Genesis 6:2 when the sons of God took wives of the daughters of men.

The Lord did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because you were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people.  (Deuteronomy 7:7)

For thou art a holy people unto the Lord thy God, and the Lord hath chosen thee to be a peculiar (5459) people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth.  (Deuteronomy 14:2)

Quite a few choose/chose verses to browse through, but very informative and encouraging.  There are many stating God or the Lord chose the place to put his name.  I jumped around after Deuteronomy and landed in the Psalms.

For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.  (Psalm 84:10)

Which made me think of the song, Better is One Day.

peculiar treasure - H5459 - Feminine passive participle of an unused root meaning to shut up; wealth (as closely shut up).

Used 8 times in 8 verses.  The first usage in Exodus 19:5:

Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine.

Above all people.  Chosen.  Israel is chosen of God.  Once God chooses someone or something, does He un-choose?  Does God still have plans for physical and/or national Israel?  Has the church replaced Israel?  Is the church an extension of Israel?  Those are some of the questions which I have been contemplating of late and will study further - later.  These particular verses of chosen and peculiar treasure reassure me of His unswerving commitment to those whom HE has placed in HIS protective care.

For thou art a holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth.  (Deuteronomy 7:6)

For the LORD hath chosen (977) Jacob unto himself, and Israel for his peculiar treasure.  (Psalm 135:4)

And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.  (Malachi 3:17)

Peculiar treasure made me think of these verses from the NT:

Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar (4041) people, zealous of good works.  (Titus 2:14)

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar (4046) people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:  (1 Peter 2:9)

G4041 - From the present participle feminine of a compound of G4012 and G1510; being beyond usual, that is, special (one’s own).

G4047 - From G4046; acquisition (the act or the thing); by extension preservation.
  • G4046 - Middle voice from G4012 and G4160; to make around oneself, that is, acquire (buy).
Shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.  O that the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart would be in continuous praise and glory of HIS name.  Lord, help those of us whom You have chosen to be Your own give glory and magnify Your name, regardless of where we are, or what types of situations and/or circumstances we find ourselves.

Friday, March 18, 2011

Day 77-11

V From the Exodus to the Crossing into Canaan - 1462-1422 B.C. ~ cont.
(1462 - 982 480 years of 1 Kings 6:1)
D. From Kadesh-Barnea to crossing of Jordan ~ cont.
5. Settling down in plains of Moab, east of Jordan ~ cont.
s. Song by Moses
(1) Commanded by God - Deuteronomy 31:14-30
(2) Spoken to the people - Deuteronomy 32:1-47
t. Moses goes to Mt. Nebo - Numbers 27:12-14, Deuteronomy 32:48-52
u. Final words to the tribes - Deuteronomy 33:1, 6-25, 2-5, 26-29; Psalm 91:1-16
{pages 334-340}

Now therefore write ye this song for you, and teach it the children of Israel: put it in their mouths, that this song may be a witness for me against the children of Israel.  For when I shall have brought them into the land which I sware unto their fathers, that floweth with milk and honey; and they shall have eaten and filled themselves, and waxen fat; then will they turn unto other gods, and serve them, and provoke me, and break my covenant.  (Deuteronomy 31:19-20)

I was reflecting upon how Israel and/or Israel/Judah had forsaken God, turning to the weak and beggerly elements of this world.  Israel as a chosen nation of God was to be an example to the other nations.  Christians throughout the world now raise that banner of walking in the light and truth of the Word of God.  Or she should.  My heart weeps for the bride for I fear, just as Israel, we are not giving a proper estimate of our Father.

Lord, that the hearts of Your people would be turned from the toys and trinkets of this temporal abode and feast upon the living, life changing Word.  Father, cleanse us Your people, make us meet for Thy use.  Let not anything we say or do cause the heathen to blaspheme Thy name.

~~**~~

For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?  And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?  (1 Peter 4:17-18)