Tag: moses

TODAY’S WORD: The Power of God Revealed: Exodus 9 and Pharaoh’s Heart

Exodus 9:9-15 is part of the narrative describing the ten plagues that God inflicted upon Egypt to persuade Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery. These specific verses fall within the account of the sixth plague, which involves boils. Here’s a breakdown of the significance of these verses:

1. Sixth Plague: Boils (Exodus 9:9-11)

  • Verses 9-10: Moses and Aaron, following God’s instructions, take handfuls of soot from a kiln and throw it into the air in Pharaoh’s presence. The soot causes boils to break out on people and animals throughout Egypt.
    • “It will become fine dust over the whole land of Egypt, and festering boils will break out on men and animals throughout the land.”
  • Verse 11: The magicians of Egypt cannot stand before Moses because of the boils, demonstrating the powerlessness of Egypt’s spiritual and medicinal leaders compared to the God of Israel.
    • “The magicians could not stand before Moses because of the boils that were on them and on all the Egyptians.”

2. God’s Sovereignty and Judgment (Exodus 9:12-15)

  • Verse 12: God hardens Pharaoh’s heart, which prevents him from listening to Moses and releasing the Israelites. This demonstrates God’s control over the situation and His plan to reveal His power and name.
    • “But the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart and he would not listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the Lord had said to Moses.”
  • Verse 13: God instructs Moses to confront Pharaoh early in the morning and deliver a message.
    • “Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Get up early in the morning, confront Pharaoh and say to him, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of the Hebrews, says: Let my people go, so that they may worship me.’
  • Verse 14: God declares that He will send the full force of His plagues against Pharaoh, his officials, and the people to show that there is no one like Him in all the earth.
    • “Or this time I will send the full force of my plagues against you and against your officials and your people, so you may know that there is no one like me in all the earth.”
  • Verse 15: God explains that He could have already wiped out the Egyptians but has chosen to show His power and proclaim His name through the unfolding events.
    • “For by now I could have stretched out my hand and struck you and your people with a plague that would have wiped you off the earth.”

Significance:

  1. Divine Judgment and Power: These verses highlight God’s power and authority over all creation, emphasizing that He can bring about plagues that affect the entire population and even the spiritual leaders of Egypt. The boils serve as a tangible demonstration of God’s judgment against Pharaoh and the Egyptians for their oppression of the Israelites.
  2. God’s Sovereignty: The hardening of Pharaoh’s heart shows that God is in control of the situation. Despite the escalating severity of the plagues, Pharaoh’s refusal to release the Israelites showcases God’s sovereignty and plan to display His power.
  3. Purpose of the Plagues: The plagues are not just random acts of punishment but are intended to reveal God’s power and make His name known. Through these acts, God demonstrates that He is the one true God, superior to the gods of Egypt, and worthy of worship and obedience.
  4. Preparation for Deliverance: These events are crucial in the lead-up to the eventual deliverance of the Israelites. They set the stage for the final plagues, which will ultimately convince Pharaoh to let the Israelites go, leading to their liberation and the fulfillment of God’s promises to them.

By studying this passage, one can gain a deeper understanding of the themes of divine power, judgment, and deliverance that run throughout the biblical narrative.

Thanks Be To God (that I am Lutheran)

IT’S ASH WEDNESDAY!

Numbers 27: Empowering Women Through Inheritance

HIGH FIVE!

Numbers 27:1-11 tells the story of the daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—who approached Moses and the leaders of Israel to request their deceased father’s inheritance since he had no sons. This was a significant moment because, under the laws at that time, inheritance was typically passed through male descendants.

The text’s significance lies in several key aspects:

  1. Advocacy and Justice: The daughters’ courage to speak up for their rights and seek justice was notable. Their plea led to a change in the inheritance laws, demonstrating that individuals, regardless of gender, could influence societal norms and bring about legal reforms.
  2. God’s Justice: Moses brought their case before the Lord, and God confirmed that the daughters’ request was just. God then established a new inheritance law that allowed daughters to inherit if there were no sons, ensuring fairness and justice within the community.
  3. Inclusivity and Equality: This passage highlights the importance of inclusivity and equality within the Israelite society. It set a precedent that acknowledged the rights of women and ensured they were not left destitute or without a family inheritance.
  4. Faith and Obedience: The daughters’ faith in God and their obedience to approach Moses showed their trust in God’s justice and their willingness to follow His guidance.

Overall, Numbers 27:1-11 is a powerful example of how faith, advocacy, and a desire for justice can lead to significant changes in laws and societal practices, promoting equality and fairness for all members of the community.

(In memory of Alia Mendez)

TODAY’S WORD: Understanding Numbers 16: The Dangers of Rebellion

HIGH FIVE!

Numbers 16:20-35 is a dramatic and sobering passage that deals with the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram against Moses and Aaron’s leadership. Here’s a detailed look at its significance:

1. Rebellion Against God’s Appointed Leaders:

Korah, Dathan, and Abiram challenge Moses and Aaron’s authority, claiming that the whole community is holy and questioning why Moses and Aaron elevate themselves above the assembly. This rebellion is not just against the human leaders but against God’s appointed order. It underscores the importance of respecting divinely established leadership and authority.

2. Divine Judgment:

In this passage, God’s response to the rebellion is swift and severe. Moses and Aaron intercede for the people, but ultimately, God instructs the congregation to move away from the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram. The ground opens up and swallows the rebels and their households, and fire comes out from the Lord and consumes the 250 men offering incense. This dramatic judgment serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of defying God’s authority.

3. Holiness and Consecration:

The passage emphasizes the theme of holiness and the sanctity of God’s chosen leaders. By challenging Moses and Aaron, the rebels were also questioning God’s decisions. The harsh punishment reflects the seriousness with which God views the sanctity of His appointed servants and the importance of maintaining the order He has established.

4. The Power of Intercession:

Moses and Aaron’s intercession for the people illustrates the role of spiritual leaders in seeking mercy on behalf of their communities. Despite the rebellion against them, Moses and Aaron plead for the lives of the broader community, showing their compassion and dedication to their role as shepherds of Israel.

5. Warnings for Future Generations:

This event serves as a stark warning for future generations about the dangers of pride, jealousy, and rebellion. It underscores the need for humility, obedience, and respect for divine authority.

Summary:

Numbers 16:20-35 is significant because it highlights the gravity of rebelling against God’s appointed leaders and the severe consequences of such actions. It underscores the themes of divine authority, holiness, and the power of intercession. The passage serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience, humility, and respect for God’s established order.

LET’S WORK THAT DOUBLE… CLOPEN??? (what encumbrance???)

TODAY’S WORD: The Significance of God’s Voice in Deuteronomy 5:22-33

HIGH FIVE!

The text “DEUTERONOMY 5:22-33” refers to a specific passage from the Bible, specifically from the book of Deuteronomy in the Old Testament.

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Hebrew Bible and of the Old Testament. It primarily consists of three sermons or speeches delivered to the Israelites by Moses on the plains of Moab, shortly before they enter the Promised Land.

The passage 5:22-33 is part of Moses’ retelling of the Ten Commandments and the events at Mount Sinai. This section specifically deals with:

  1. The reaction of the Israelites to hearing God’s voice and seeing the fire on the mountain.
  2. The people’s request for Moses to be an intermediary between them and God.
  3. God’s approval of this request and His desire for the people to fear Him and keep His commandments.

The image shows a golden microphone trophy with a ribbon that says “IS HOPE”, placed on what appears to be an open book, likely a Bible. This visual representation, combined with the Biblical reference, suggests a theme of speaking God’s word or sharing a message of hope based on Biblical teachings.

The juxtaposition of the modern microphone with the ancient text emphasizes the enduring relevance of these scriptures and their continued proclamation in contemporary settings.

I NOTICE… YOU USE THE WORD “juxtaposition” CONSISTANTLY…

TODAY’S WORD

HIGH FIVE!

The text “Exodus 9:13-35” refers to a passage in the biblical book of Exodus. Let’s explore its significance together:

In this section, God sends a series of plagues upon Egypt to demonstrate His power and demand the release of the Israelites from slavery. The specific verses you mentioned describe the seventh plague: a severe hailstorm that devastated crops, livestock, and people. Despite Pharaoh’s initial promise to let the Israelites go, he later hardened his heart and refused.

The passage highlights themes of divine judgment, human stubbornness, and God’s sovereignty. It also underscores the ongoing struggle between Pharaoh’s pride and God’s purpose.

Feel free to ask if you’d like further insights or interpretations! 😊

Why did Pharaoh keep changing his mind?

Pharaoh’s wavering decisions can be attributed to several factors:

  1. Pride and Stubbornness: Pharaoh was the ruler of Egypt, and his pride often clouded his judgment. Despite witnessing the plagues, he refused to humble himself before God and release the Israelites.
  2. Fear of Losing Control: Letting go of a large slave workforce would weaken Egypt’s economy and infrastructure. Pharaoh feared losing control over this labor force.
  3. Divine Hardening: The Bible mentions that God hardened Pharaoh’s heart. This doesn’t mean God forced Pharaoh to act a certain way, but rather that God allowed Pharaoh’s stubbornness to persist.
  4. Political and Social Pressures: Pharaoh faced pressure from his advisors, priests, and the Egyptian population. Releasing the Israelites might have been seen as a sign of weakness.

In summary, Pharaoh’s pride, fear, and external pressures led to his indecisiveness. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of stubbornness and arrogance. 😊

(PLANT THAT DAMN APPLE TREE)

TODAY’S WORD

HIGH FIVE!

The text “DEUTERONOMY 11:18-21” refers to a specific passage in the Bible, from the book of Deuteronomy. Let’s explore its significance:

  1. Reflection on God’s Covenantal Laws:
    • In Deuteronomy 11:18, Moses instructs the Israelites to impress God’s words on their hearts and souls. The verb “impress” means to place or set these words within themselves.
    • The heart represents the seat of feelings and intellect, while the soul refers to the invisible part of a person where desires and passions reside.
    • By reflecting on God’s covenantal principles, the Israelites would remain faithful to Yahweh (Joshua 1:8; Psalms 1:2).
  2. Wearing God’s Commandments:
    • Moses also emphasizes the importance of wearing copies of God’s commandments.
    • In Deuteronomy 6:8, he commands the Israelites to bind these commandments as a sign on their hands and as frontals on their foreheads.
    • This figurative language underscores the constant awareness and observance of God’s laws.
  3. Teaching the Next Generation:
    • Passing down knowledge is crucial. Moses instructs the Israelites to teach God’s commandments to their children.
    • The teaching should happen consistently—when sitting at home, walking along the road, lying down, and rising up (Deuteronomy 11:19).
    • The repetition of contrasting verbs emphasizes the continuous nature of this teaching.
  4. Prosperity and Safety:
    • Following God’s laws would lead to a self-governing society, mutual benefit, prosperity, and safety.
    • By internalizing and sharing these principles, the Israelites would demonstrate their commitment to God and ensure blessings for generations to come.

In summary, Deuteronomy 11:18-21 emphasizes reflection, observance, and teaching of God’s covenantal laws—a path to prosperity and faithful living. 🌟

  • CHURCH (reading)
  • READ CHAPTER 3 OF “The Formation of the Resurrection Narratives”
  • WORK

TODAY’S WORD

HIGH FIVE!

The text “DEUTERONOMY 32:44-47” refers to specific verses in the book of Deuteronomy in the Bible. Let’s explore their significance:

  1. Context:
    • After reciting his song to the Israelites (verses 1-43), Moses exhorts them to covenant faithfulness, urging them to take everything to heart to live long in the Promised Land.
    • Joshua, the son of Nun, assists Moses in delivering this song to Israel (verse 44).
  2. Key Verses:
    • Deuteronomy 32:44: “So Moses came with Joshua the son of Nun and spoke all the words of this song in the hearing of the people.”
    • Deuteronomy 32:45: “When Moses had finished speaking all these words to all Israel…”
    • Deuteronomy 32:46: “Set your hearts on all the words which I testify among you today, which you shall command your children to be observant of, all the words of this law.”
    • Deuteronomy 32:47: “For it is not a futile thing for you, because it is your life, and by this word you shall prolong your days in the land which you cross over the Jordan to possess.”
  3. Significance:
    • Moses emphasizes the importance of God’s covenant words for Israel’s life.
    • The heart represents the inner man—intellect, will, and emotions. Moses urges the people to make these words the absolute standard by which they live.
    • Obedience to God’s laws ensures blessings and longevity in the Promised Land.
    • The law is not an idle or empty word; it is their life.

Remember that faith is not a trifle; it is the life of our souls! 🌟

  • DENTIST
  • GYM
  • MGRTRNGCL + R
  • OFFICER PRESENTATION FOR TOASTMASTERS
  • READ CH 2. OF “The Formation of the Resurrection Narratives”
  • WORK