Trends of the end times

Trends of the end times

This Friday, we were privileged at FGB Jaya Chapter One to have brother Samuel Phillip from Bangalore teach about the End times.

Looking at the general timeline of world history, we have 4,000 years before Christ, 2,000 years after Christ, 7 years of Tribulation and then 1,000 years of the millennial reign under Jesus Christ. The final 1,000 year period is God’s way of showing what perfect government under God is after 6,000 years of failed human government.

A key part of the end times is found in the book of Daniel when King Nebuchadnezzar explains his dream of the great statue with the head made of gold, the chest and arms of silver, the stomach and thighs of bronze and the legs iron. As Daniel explained, these represented four great kingdoms on the Earth, the Babylonian, Persian, Greek and Roman empires. Today, the actual Rome empire is no more, but it represented the foundation of the modern world. Humanism, democracy, census, modern law all came from the Roman empire.

In earlier years after the Roman empire broke to pieces, countries were largely ruled by their own kings, but in the years of European conquest, when European countries went out to conquer smaller countries all over the world for trade, they left behind many new countries with democratic governments all over the world. The feet made partly of iron and partly of baked clay could refer to communism and democracy being combined together under one government.

Of the 2,000 years after Christ, we can see that in the first 1,400, there was not much development. However, in the years 1400-1900, we see a very rapid advance in the human race in almost every field, and in the last 100 years from 1900-2000, the introduction of petrol as fuel, cars, planes, computers, and lately the internet has pushed the human race nearer and nearer the end times. These days, there are even cyber wars, which alike spiritual war, which cannot be seen. Monitoring of humans has never been closer. Google is in fact developing a software which can translate any language into one language, bringing us to a time like the tower of Babel when the whole world spoke one language. The whole world is going into biometrics, CCTV, having a global eye on everyone all the time. Even the development of a webpage, which can be called upon from anywhere in the world seems to be trying to mirror what God can do – (The eyes of the Lord ranges to and fro across the whole world looking to strengthen those who are committed to Him).

In Revelation 13, the chapter speaks of the beast with power to kill those who do not worship the image of the beast and to force everyone to be unable to buy or sell without the mark of the beast. Business control is important for the Anti-Christ, not just business itself, but the way that business is done. The technology for the electronic device to be implanted in one hand or forehead is already here.

In Revelation 11, when the two witnesses are killed all the people will see their bodies. Because of the television, this is now possible. Worldwide new coverage has made possible bringing events in any part of the world to everyone else with access to a TV. Now, it is also possible to communicate with anyone, any time.

In Matthew 12:25, it is written that Jesus knew their thoughts. The technology to read a person’s mind is already here, to read a person’s brain and read their intentions before they act. Technology has also allowed a person to use his thoughts to move prosthetic arms or even move the wheelchair.

Amos 8 talks about a famine for the Word of God. In today’s world, there is a plan to rewrite the Bible to suit the modern world, to delete marriage, man, woman. US/Europe is moving towards a move to ban any publication against human freedom. The Word is against the world’s lust and immorality. It is forbidden to preach the gospel in some countries, even in Sweden.

In Ezekiel 28, Satan was judged “through his widespread trade, he was filled with violence and sinned”. Revelation 18 shows the judgment on Babylon with reference to her merchants and trading. In today’s world, there is a lot of corruption in business, and even in spheres like education, medical care and sports have become all business-minded and focused on money. To some, even church is a business, and there are those who open a church and say nice things but their ultimate aim is to live off the money of the members. Business is not wrong in itself, but often becomes the source of pride, and any kind of pride is against God.

Another end time prophecy fulfillment Is that Israel shall blossom and bud and fill the whole world with fruit. Isaiah 27:6. Today, Israel has become a primary laboratory for a lot of eco-innovation. Moreover, most of the great corporations such as Microsoft, Dell, Intel, Google, Facebook and Cisco have Jews as owners. The French Prime Minister is a Jewish descendant. Many of the great inventors were Jews. 3% of the world’s population are Jews but they consit of 30% of the world’s nobel prize winners. They are planning to rebuild the temple as we speak, which must happen before the end.

In recent times, the great natural disasters are a warning to us not to be proud of our boats, plane, cars, homes or careers. Any one of them can be gone in a moment. There are signs in the sky and high temperature and high pressure underground where there are toxic chemicals and molten lava ready to blow. As said in 2 Peter, the whole world will eventually burn out.

The breaking of covenants has also become widespread with 60-70% of marriages in the West and the Far East ending in divorce.

All these signs which were not so present even just 20 years tell us that we really are right in the end times, and we need to be ever prepared, beware of pride and keep close to Jesus.

His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom

His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom

Scripture: “As I looked, “thrones were set in place, and the Ancient of Days took his seat. His clothing was as white as snow; the hair of his head was white like wool.
His throne was flaming with fire, and its wheels were all ablaze. A river of fire was flowing, coming out from before him. Thousands upon thousands attended him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him. The court was seated, and the books were opened. Daniel 7:9-10

“‘But the court will sit, and his power will be taken away and completely destroyed forever. Then the sovereignty, power and greatness of all the kingdoms under heaven will be handed over to the holy people of the Most High. His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all rulers will worship and obey him.’ Daniel 7:26-27

Observation: Daniel Chapter 7 focuses on one powerful dream that Daniel had during the time of King Belshazzar. In it, he saw 4 beasts rise up from the sea, representing four great kingdoms that would come and reign upon the earth. Corresponding to King Nebuchadnezzar’s vision of the great statue, the four kingdoms are basically the Babylonian, Persian, Greek and Roman empires that have come and conquered the world. Emphasis is placed on 10 kings that will come from the Roman empire. The fact is, the old Roman empire has long been vanquished, and the world has changed completely since, with myriads of independent countries everywhere, and the great military powers of the world have now been positioned in the East (China), North (Russia) and West (U.S.) of the world rather than the central part of the world in the Middle East and Europe, where the old empires were. Nevertheless, somehow, in the end of days, these 10 kings will rise up from the same Roman Empire spirit to rule the world, perhaps dividing the world into 10 mega-states. Around that time, the Anti-Christ would come up and vanquish 3 of the kings, change set times and laws, and boast mightily against God. He will also make war with the holy ones, referring to the Jews and the Christians, who will fall before him until the Lord returns and defeats him completely. And then the Lord will rule the earth with His holy people in a kingdom that will last forever.

The first passage of the chapter today looks at the description of God in Daniel’s dream. He is called the Ancient of Days. This reminds us that God is ancient, far more ancient that anything in all creation. He has always been, and will always be. He is the Great I AM. His clothing is white as snow, symbolizing purity and holiness. Just as God is a holy, we too are to be holy. In addition, the hair of God’s head was white like wool. In Revelation, when our Lord Jesus appeared to John, His hair was the same, white like wool, white as snow. The white hair also symbolizes supreme wisdom. Next, it is written that God’s throne was flaming with fire, and its wheels were all ablaze. The flame represents purification and judgment. The wheels of the throne show us that God is living and active, always on the move. The river of fire coming from God is symbolic of the Holy Spirit which came and descended upon the disciples in flames of fire.

In the second passage, we see the final end time event when the Anti-Christ is judged and all kingdoms under heaven given to the holy people, who will rule in God’s everlasting kingdom. No matter what happens during the period of tribulation, when the enemy seems to win against God’s holy people, we must remain loyal to Jesus, and hold on to our faith, believing that in the end, the Lord will come back and we will have the final victory.

Application: Study the qualities of God, and pray to be more like Him – to be pure and holy, to have His wisdom, to be open to work with Him whenever He may call us, to desire more and more of His Holy Spirit. Praise Jesus that He is coming back again and that He will win the final victory, vanquishing the enemy forever, and establishing a kingdom that will never end.

Prayer: Father God, I pray that I may be more like you, pure and holy. Teach me more of Your wisdom O Lord, lead me to work with You wherever you may be working, and give me more and more of Your Holy Spirit. I praise You, Lord Jesus, that You are coming back again and You will win the final victory. Help me be faithful and true to You, to the end. Sustain me always I pray. In Jesus name, Amen.

For He is the living God

For He is the living God

Scripture: “I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. “For he is the living God and he endures forever; his kingdom will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end. He rescues and he saves; he performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth. He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions.” So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian. Daniel 6:26-28

Observation: Daniel Chapter 6 gives us the account of Daniel's ministry during the time of King Darius of Persia, and how he was thrown into the lion's den. Under the rule of King Darius, Daniel was so wise and so good in his work that the king planned to make him in charge of the whole kingdom. His jealous colleagues sought to bring him down and tricked the king into issuing a decree that would force Daniel to betray his faith or be thrown into the lion's den. Daniel did not compromise but prayed to God for help, and God sent His angel to miraculously rescue Daniel from any harm. The overjoyed king issued a new decree asking all the people in his great kingdom to honor God.

The king's decree is also instructive for us. Just as the king ordered his people to fear and reverence God, we too who follow Christ must fear and reverence Him. The Scripture teaches us that the fear of the Lord is beginning of wisdom and the Lord delights in those who fear Him and who put their trust in His unfailing love. We fear and reverence Him by seeking to live holy lives, and to know Him deeper. Fear of God and love of God as written in the Psalms often come together. Though God is a loving, personal God, He is also the Great Judge and Creator and we must follow His ways.

Secondly, King Darius proclaimed that the God of Daniel is the living God. God is alive.He sees and hears and moves actively all over the world. The eyes of the Lord range to and fro across the whole earth seeking to strengthen those who are commited to Him.

Thirdly, God's kingdom will not be destroyed and his dominion will never end. On earth, we see many kingdoms and nations, but all these are under God's control. It is the Lord who judges. He exalts one and brings down another. When Jesus returns, He will establish God's kingdom forever.

Finally,God rescues and saves. He is able to perform great miracles to save those who are His own. We are never to forget to turn to God for all our needs, great or small. He is indeed an ever present help in time of trouble.

Application: Commit in our hearts to fear and reverence God always.Proclaim that God is the living God, and that His kingdom will never end. For all our needs, look to Him as the Great God who rescues and saves.

Prayer: Father God, may my heart never fail to fear and reverence You always. You are the Living God, and Your kingdom and dominion will never end. I will ever look to You for help,for You O Lord are the loving God who rescues and saves. May Your name be praised forever.In Jesus name,Amen.

Wisdom like that of the gods

Wisdom like that of the gods

Scripture: There is a man in your kingdom who has the spirit of the holy gods in him. In the time of your father he was found to have insight and intelligence and wisdom like that of the gods. Your father, King Nebuchadnezzar, appointed him chief of the magicians, enchanters, astrologers and diviners.  He did this because Daniel, whom the king called Belteshazzar, was found to have a keen mind and knowledge and understanding, and also the ability to interpret dreams, explain riddles and solve difficult problems. Call for Daniel, and he will tell you what the writing means.” Daniel 5:11-12

Observation: Daniel 5 takes us to the amazing episode where King Belshazzar of Babylon saw the fingers of a hand suddenly appear out of thin air and write his judgment on the wall. At a great banquet for a thousand of his nobles, King Belshazzar dishonored God by ordering for the gold goblets taken from the temple in Jerusalem by his father King Nebuchadnezzar to be used at his banquet. The divine hand of judgment appeared and wrote on the wall, and no one could interpret its meaning until the queen mother told the king about Daniel. Daniel was called and prophesied that Belshazzar’s reign would end that very night because of his sin, and Darius the Mede took over the kingdom that same night.

The passage of our focus today is based on the introduction of Daniel by the queen mother to her son. Firstly, Daniel was described as having the spirit of the holy gods in him. The Babylonians did not believe that there was only one true God, but Daniel did have one Spirit, the Holy Spirit in him. We too, who have received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are given the Holy Spirit in us. The Holy Spirit has all insight and intelligence and wisdom and He makes it available to us when we most need it if we continue to seek Him.

The queen mother further mentioned that these qualities were found in Daniel during the time of Nebuchadnezzar. This shows us that Daniel had been forgotten during the rule of King Belshazzar who had not even heard of him. Rather than use his father’s advisors, King Belshazzar must have surrounded himself with his own peers, his own people. Like Daniel who was sidelined, there may be also times when we seem to be forgotten, pushed to the side, neglected, even though God is with us. However, Daniel still remained close to God, and He would have continued his practice of fasting and praying, even when his talents were not used. For us too, in times when we perhaps do not find ourselves active in ministry, we too should remain close to God and disciplined in prayer and the Word, ready to serve Him once we are called upon to do so, like Daniel.

One of the key characteristics of Daniel mentioned that is especially relevant today is the ability to solve difficult problems. In every church, business, and even in the home, people with the ability to solve difficult problems are highly valued. When we solve a problem, we are bringing peace to a situation. As Jesus declared “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God”. Whenever we face any problem anywhere, let us ask God for wisdom and help to solve the problem. He is an ever present help in times of trouble!

Application: Recognize and declare that the Holy Spirit in us is all wise, all understanding, all-powerful. If we are in a period of less active service, do not be idle, but continue to be strong in the Lord, reading the Bible and praying. Thank God that the Holy Spirit gives us the wisdom to solve problems. Whenever we face any problems, ask God help and for wisdom to solve problems.

Prayer: Praise You, Holy Spirit, for You are all-wise, all-knowing, all-understanding, all-powerful. All wisdom comes from You, O God. Help me be ever close to You, active in prayer and in the Word, at all times. In every problem that I face, I will look to You for strength and help and wisdom. In You alone I trust O Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.

 

The sin of King David

The sin of King David

Goshen Bible Study

Led by brother Daniel

Our study was focused on 2 Samuel 11, on the notorious incident where King David fell into sin. In a time where kings normally go off to war, King David had stayed back, and in his leisure happened to notice a very beautiful woman bathing. Desiring her, he proceeded to inquire about her and then sent for her although he knew she belonged to another man’s wife. Her name was Bathsheba, and her husband Uriah the Hittite was a valiant warrior, one of the mighty Thirty who served David. Soon Bathsheba became pregnant, and King David tried to cover up his sin by arranging for Uriah to come back from battle and sleep with his wife. However, despite David’s desperate efforts, Uriah refused, as he was convicted he should not have this pleasure while his commander and fellow soldiers were at war. Finally, David plotted with Joab the army commander to have Uriah killed by the enemy by placing him where the fighting was fiercest and withdrawing suddenly. And after Uriah died, King David sent for Bathsheba and took her as his own wife. Even after this, David did not repent until the prophet Nathan came and rebuked him through a carefully constructed parable. And although David was forgiven, there were terrible lasting consequences of his sin on his household.

Lessons from our study

·      There is an order in which sin works as described in James 1:14-15 “but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.” Normally, we are not tempted by a great sin straight away, but it starts with small steps, leading us deeper and deeper into a whole sea of sin. Therefore we must always keep watch

·      As the saying goes “idle hands are a devil’s workshop”. In a time when kings go off to war, King David wasn’t doing anything constructive, and this led to temptation. Even in our leisure, it is important to be constructive and positive in what we do, and we should not slack off from our work and responsibilities.

·      Even the mighty can fall. Although King David was so great and so close to God, even called a man after God’s own heart, he fell. This is a warning to us that all of us can fall, so we need to be humble and beware of pride always.

·      The battle is in the mind. The seed for King David’s sin was sown when he first saw Bathsheba and continued to look at her, probably lustfully. He must have continued to let thoughts about her linger in his mind, and this led to him inquiring about her and then sending for her. It is in the mind that we have to arrest unhealthy thoughts or images, but instead focus on godly, holy, good things.

·      Sin has tragic consequences on others. King David’s first son with Bathsheba died as a result of the sin. Later, Nathan’s prophecy that the sword would never leave his house came true. David’s son Absalom killed his brother Amnon and rebelled against his father before finally being killed himself by Joab. Later, King Solomon, the son who succeeded King David ordered the execution of his brother Adonijah.

·      God forgives us when we turn back, no matter how heinous our sin. Although King David’s sin was so terrible - adultery, betrayal and murder, God forgave him when he repented. In the end, it is not for us to judge one another, or even ourselves, but to come back to God humbly, and receive His grace and forgiveness through Christ Jesus.

  

The Absalom spirit

The Absalom spirit

SIB, Pastor Chew Weng Chee

When we look at the timeline of David’s life, we see a certain trend. Every time he reaches a high, he suddenly plunges down. After his anointing as king, his defeat of Goliath, and being taken into the royal family, David suddenly found himself pursued by a jealous King Saul to the ends of Israel and beyond, forcing him to become a fugitive. After he became established as King of Israel and enjoyed many successful years, he fell into adultery and murder, and his sin resulted in a downward spiral for both him and his family. Similarly, many successful students, businesspeople, even church leaders and pastors, after attaining great success suddenly find themselves plunging down into despair. Sometimes God allows these things to happen to remind us that we are human, and that we need Him.

The Absalom rebellion against David was a follow through of the judgment on David’s sin. Nathan had prophesied that the sword would never leave David’s house, and his family suffered tragic consequences. Although David had been forgiven, there were still terrible consequences for many people for some time. Besides that, the sin had also blunted David’s spiritual acumen until he could not see the rebellion coming at all. We need to beware of the Absalom spirit which is the spirit of divisiveness in the church.

Absalom was the third son of David, and though the Scripture records him as being very attractive, there is no mention of his spirituality. It is important for us to remember 1 Samuel 16:7 which shows us that God looks at the heart and not the outward appearance. Absalom was charming, deceptive, cunning, subtle and treacherous. He turned the hearts of the Israelites against David using favors, flattery and casting doubts over his father’s concern for his people. The Absalom spirit causes chaos and confusion in a church or business. Its ultimate aim is to undermine, to tear down and gain mileage for himself, projecting himself as savior or salvation.

How come David did not spot it? Because of his sin, David’s spirit was blunted. He could not discern and missed it. We must be very careful not to fall into the same mistake. The roots of the rebellion actually started earlier when Amnon raped Tamar, his half-sister. David heard of it and was furious but he did nothing. Absalom hated Amnon and later took it upon himself to kill him. There was immorality and bloodshed in his house, for David had not taken control. If the father does not take authority, all hell breaks loose. The father, the company head, the church leaders has to do what is righteous. David should have dealt with it based on God’s standards. He would have been unpopular but it is better to be unpopular than compromised. If we do not define ourselves, we allow others to define us. We must maintain the standard of God. Though there are those who may hate him and seek to destroy him, Pastor Chew has one standard, God’s absolute standard. David failed because he did not take control. We have to believe that when we do what is right, God will back us up. Pastor’s experience is that when he takes a stand for God, God backs him up all the way. We cannot compromise on God’s standard.

There are 6 particular characteristics of an Absalom spirit that we must beware of.

Firstly, the Absalom spirit plants doubts and casts slurs on God’s ordained leadership. They criticize the pastors or leaders, saying they don’t care, that they don’t develop you.

Secondly, the Absalom spirit uses kindness, handouts and favors as their means to gain the hearts of the people. They take effort to carefully construct an image to impress.

Thirdly, the Absalom spirit needs an audience to thrive. They will speak to 2,000 people but not two. If there is no audience, it goes somewhere else. They look for people in want, discontented people, those who are anti-establishment. They are very dangerous.

Fourthly, the Absalom makes promises he does not intend to keep. Pastor Chew mandate is that as God’s servant, he tells you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear. People like to hear certain preachers that keep saying God blesses and blesses, that it’s ok to want bigger, better things. These preachers never preach about suffering but only about the grace of God. All SIB pastors are called to preach the truth, without fear or favor of men.

Fifthly, unforgiveness and bitterness are the underlying causes for this type of spirit to germinate. Some people are hurt and offended that the Pastor hurt them, that the Cell Heads hurt them. We are called to forgive, and not give room for the Absalom spirit to work. It thrives on offenses. We need to forgive and move on with our focus to build God’s kingdom.

Sixth, the Absalom spirit is able to deceive even the elect and bring them over to his side. The most wise person, Ahitophel was deceived. He was David’s wisest counselor and his betrayal affected David most significantly.

Seventh, the Absalom spirit will surface sooner or later to cause rebellion.

How do we fight the Absalom spirit?

Firstly, be decisive. We need to make a clean cut. We cannot accommodate it, like David did.

Secondly, be discerning.

Thirdly, be devoted, totally committed to God and to His kingdom. If God is for us, no one can be against us! Do what is right, and we will have a clear conscience before God.

Finally, Absalom was caught by his own hair as he was running away from David. Ultimately, the hair that was his pride killed him. The head represents authority and the hair arrogance. Basically, Absalom set himself as head and by his head he was finally judged.

In closing we were reminded to beware most of pride, for pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall (Proverbs 16:18)

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

Those who walk in pride he is able to humble

Those who walk in pride he is able to humble

Scripture: Therefore, Your Majesty, be pleased to accept my advice: Renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed. It may be that then your prosperity will continue.” Daniel 4:27

Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble. Daniel 4:37

Observation: Daniel Chapter 4 tells us the most interesting story of how the great King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon had a strange dream about a great tree that was cut down to the stump after judgment from Heaven. Daniel explained to the king that the tree represented him, and how God would judge him for his pride by giving him insanity for 7 years where he would live alone. However, after the 7 years, Nebuchadnezzar would acknowledge the greatness of God, and His sovereignty over the whole world. Then he would be fully restored and his kingdom given back to him.

The major lesson from this chapter is found in the second passage, that we must beware of pride. We must always remember that God is sovereign and everything happens according to His will, according to His purpose. There is no room for us to become proud and think we are great on our own strength, riches or abilities. All that we have comes from God, and we must never forget that, but be grateful to Him in humility and honor Him for all He gives us and enables us to do. The Scripture says that God despises the proud but gives grace to the humble. Jesus said “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled but whoever humbles himself will be exalted”, and “whoever wants to be the first must be the very last, and the servant of all”. Jesus showed us the way by His humility and humble death on the cross. Always, always beware of pride, and remember to be humble.

Secondly, it is interesting that in the first passage, despite the judgment shown by God in Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, Daniel showed the king a way out. If he would humble himself and renounce his sins and instead do what was right and being kind to the oppressed, his prosperity would continue. To willfully continue in ways of sin is a way of pride and rebellion towards God. But if we repent and turn back to God and do right, His judgment will be averted. He is a forgiving, merciful God, but we must be humble and come to Him in sincerity.

Application: Acknowledge that God is sovereign over the whole earth. Thank Him for all that He has given us. Humble ourselves before God, and ask Him to forgive the pride that is in our hearts. If we are in a particular sin, repent, and seek God humbly. He will forgive us. He gives grace to the humble.

Prayer: Father God, You are sovereign over the whole earth. Everything belongs to You, and all I have has been given by You. Thank You, Lord, for all the grace You have given me. Forgive my moments of pride O Lord, but give me a humble heart like You, Lord Jesus. Forgive my sins, lead me to repentance, and fill me with Your Holy Spirit and a deep desire to follow Your ways. May Your name be praised forever. In Jesus name, Amen.

They trusted in Him

They trusted in Him

Scripture:

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” Daniel 3:16-18

Then Nebuchadnezzar said, “Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king’s command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. Daniel 3:28

Observation: In Daniel Chapter 3, we see yet another great incident. This time, the King, perhaps spurred on from the dream has ordered a great statue of gold to be built and instructed everyone in his kingdom to bow down to it. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego dramatically refuse and are thrown into a fiery furnace. Amazingly, as they prophesied to the king, God indeed delivered them and not a hair on their head was singed. In yet another great moment, the God of Heaven turned a terrible, life-threatening situation into a time of great reward for His servants.

In the first passage, we see the courageous reply of the three young men, and there is much we can learn from it. Firstly, they stated that they did not need to defend themselves before him. They knew that they answered to God first, and anyone else, no matter how powerful was secondary. Ultimately, it is God who judges us, not man. Likewise, we too are not to judge others, as Jesus taught “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. Do not condemn or you will be condemned”. Each man will answer ultimately to God for himself. 

Secondly, they stated that God is able to save and that He would save them. The first step is believing that God can do it. He can quiet the storm, He can walk on water, He can cause the seas to part. The second step is believing that God will do it. It is easy to believe that God can do anything but to believe that He will look down upon us and do something for us is a different matter. However, as we grow to know God more, we will realize that though God is great and we are so minute when compared with the whole great universe, He is a loving, personal God who listens to even a little child who calls out to Him. When little children ask for something, they do so honestly and expectantly, and that is how we need to learn to be with God. As the Scripture says “unless you become like little children, you will no wise enter the kingdom of God”.

Thirdly, they stated that they were willing to die in the flames rather than betray God. Ingrained in their belief was that this life is only temporary, and there is a far greater reward after death for those who are faithful to God. They had an eternal viewpoint rather than an earthly, temporal viewpoint. Only with that view will we be willing to die for our faith if required to do so.

In the second passage, we see how the king was amazed at the great loyalty of the three young men to their God, and the miraculous way that God rescued them. Their faithfulness had opened the way for the king and indeed all the people to have a new found awe and respect for their mighty God!

The key point in all this is that they trusted God. In life or in death, they trusted Him and we too need to learn to do that too.

Application: Reaffirm that we are first answerable to God before all others in all we do. Declare that God is able to do all things and praise God for being willing to help us despite His infinite greatness. Praise God that He is a loving, personal God, that listens to those who call out to Him, and blessed them with His presence and His providence. Choose to view the world from an eternal viewpoint, recognizing that we are only strangers in this world and our destiny is in a far, better place. Pray that we will always, always trust Him.

Prayer: Our Father in Heaven, we thank You that You are great, above all the heavens and the earth, and You are the ultimate judge of all mankind. Praise You, Lord, for looking down on the sons of man, to reach out to those who seek You. Help me always have an eternal perspective, like Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who chose to honor You even in the face of death. Let my heart always trust You, Lord Jesus. In You only I put my trust. In Jesus name, Amen.

Wisdom and power are His

Wisdom and power are His

Scripture: “Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.
He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him. I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors: You have given me wisdom and power, you have made known to me what we asked of you, you have made known to us the dream of the king.” Daniel 2:20-23

Observation: In the second chapter of Daniel, the lives of the four friends are seriously threatened when the king decides to execute all the wise men of Babylon because he has a disturbing dream that greatly troubles him and he cannot even remember it. As all of us should do in our time of trouble, the four friends got together and prayed to God for help. As the Psalmist says “God is our refuge and our strength, and ever present help in times of trouble.”

God, in His mercy and for His glory, answered their prayers, and gave Daniel the dream and its interpretation and they were all saved. Daniel himself was greatly rewarded for this and his friends too were promoted as a result. God turned a treacherous life-threatening situation into one that greatly profited Daniel and his three friends. We are reminded not to look with human eyes at a situation but continue trusting in God who is able in an instant to turn something bad into something incredibly good.

The prayer of Daniel here is also highly instructive. Firstly, Daniel starts off with praise to the name of God forever and ever. God introduced Himself to the Israelites as Yahweh, meaning “I am”. God always is. Past, present, future – God transcends all of it. He is forever. We should study the names of God and declare it, and praise His name. We praise You, Jehovah-Rapha, for You, O Lord, are my great Healer. Bless You, Jehovah-Shalom for You, O Lord, are my peace.

Secondly, Daniel declares that wisdom and power belongs to God, and that He is in control of everything. Times and seasons change according to God’s will, and every king is only there by the will of God.

Thirdly, Daniel acknowledges that it is God who gives men wisdom and knowledge. The Scripture warns us not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought. All that we have, our wisdom, our knowledge, our abilities, our place in society are all given by God. There is no room for us to be proud but instead to be thankful for all He has given us.

Finally, Daniel thanks God for answering their prayers by revealing the dream of the King and its interpretation.

Application: Whenever we may be in trouble, turn to God for help in prayer. He listen to those who humble themselves before Him. Remind ourselves that all governments, all trends, all things in all creation are according to God’s will. We may think any particular situation is hopeless, but we must remind ourselves that all is in God’s hands. According to His wisdom and power, He can change any situation in an instant. Study Daniel’s prayer as a model prayer we can follow. For example,

·      Praise the names of God that we can think of and its attributes, for example:-

Yahweh – I am

Adonai-Jehovah -- The Lord our Sovereign

El-Elyon -- The Lord Most High

El-Olam -- The Everlasting God

El-Shaddai -- The God Who is Sufficient for the Needs of His People

Jehovah-Elohim -- The Eternal Creator

Jehovah-Jireh -- The Lord our Provider
Jehovah-Nissi -- The Lord our Banner
Jehovah-Ropheka -- The Lord our Healer
Jehovah-Shalom -- The Lord our Peace
Jehovah-Tsidkenu -- The Lord our Righteousness
Jehovah-Mekaddishkem -- The Lord our Sanctifier
Jehovah-Sabaoth -- The Lord of Hosts
Jehovah-Shammah -- The Lord is Present
Jehovah-Rohi -- The Lord our Shepherd
Jehovah-Hoseenu -- The Lord our Maker
Jehovah-Eloheenu -- The Lord our God

·      Declare that God is in control of everything

·      Thank God for His wisdom and power

·      Thank God for answered prayers

Prayer: Lord, I praise You that You are the Great I AM, You are forever, from everlasting to everlasting. I praise You that You are Jehovah Tsidneku. You are my righteousness. I bless You for You are Jehovah-Mekaddishkem, my great Sanctifier. I honor You as Jehovah Nissi, my banner. You hold all things in Your hands O Lord. You are in control of all situations. I will ever trust in You. Thank You, O Lord, for Your great wisdom and power, and I thank You, Lord for listening to my prayers. May Your name be praised forever. In Jesus name, Amen.

Ten times better

Ten times better

Scripture: In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king questioned them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom. Daniel 1:20

Observation: In the book of Daniel, it starts off by focusing on four young Hebrews who have been taken into captivity in Babylon. They were among men of excellent upbringing, from the royal family and the nobility, and they were also bright and handsome, with aptitude for every kind of learning. Basically, they were the cream of all the young men in Israel. It is interesting that in those days, the Kings of the great empires would seek out the best minds and talents from their captured territories regardless of race or religion.

Forcibly taken from home and thrown into a strange land, and even given new unfamiliar, ungodly names, these young men would have had a very difficult time. However, God in His providence, had allowed the four friends to be together. Just reading the Scriptures, we can already quickly sense the deep bond and friendship among the four young men. They drew strength from each other as well as their common faith in their living God. As said in the book of Ecclesiastes, a threefold cord is not easily broken. In this case, four was even stronger.

In the new land, God was with them and gave them favor in the eyes of the official in charge of them. They knew that the royal food given to the trainees would be unclean by God’s law and resolved not to partake of them. Still, though the official favored them, he feared for his own life if they did not look as healthy as they should because of poor eating. And here, Daniel gave the official a simple solution, a 10-day test, to see if their diet would cause them to look any worse than the other trainees. Daniel’s solution also had all the earmarks of faith. He believed that God, the great God of miracles, would easily bless them and cause them to look even healthier than the others, and God certainly did. Not only that, God honored their faithfulness, by blessing them with wisdom and understanding ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in Babylon.

Throughout this chapter, we get this common thread. God is with the young men in their difficulties. He gives them favor with those who are over them. He gives them good health. He gives them ability and wisdom to excel in their work.

Application: Praise God that it is He who gives us good health, who gives us favor with our bosses, who gives us the ability and wisdom to do our work well. Ask God for His wisdom and desire to be righteous and just and ethical in all that we do.

Prayer: Praise You, Father in Heaven that You are always with us. It is You O Lord who blesses us with good health, who gives us favor with those above us, who enable us to do our work well. Help me be righteous in my workplace O Lord. Lead me to do what is right and just always. In Jesus name, Amen.

The inheritance

The inheritance

Scripture: This is what the Sovereign LORD says: “These are the boundaries of the land that you will divide among the twelve tribes of Israel as their inheritance, with two portions for Joseph. You are to divide it equally among them. Because I swore with uplifted hand to give it to your ancestors, this land will become your inheritance. Ezekiel 47:13-14

You are to allot it as an inheritance for yourselves and for the foreigners residing among you and who have children. You are to consider them as native-born Israelites; along with you they are to be allotted an inheritance among the tribes of Israel. Ezekiel 47:22

Observation:

At the time of the temple illustrated in Ezekiel, there will also be an assignment of the land of Israel according to the twelve tribes. During the time of Ezekiel, the Israelites were all in exile, and although a remnant came back led by Ezra and Nehemiah, after Jesus’ death, they became scattered again throughout the nations. Only after World War II, did they come back again and from the country of Israel that we know today. Still, the boundaries of Israel are still to be extended and the inheritance not allocated in the order described at this moment.

Nevertheless, this very specific assignment of the land is a reminder of the future inheritance of Israel and God’s amazing faithfulness. Not one promise that He has made will be broken. All will be fulfilled in due time, just as He has said.

It is interesting also, that Ezekiel 47:22 speaks of foreigners living alongside native-born Israelites, and being considered the same as them, also being allotted an inheritance. This scenario could not be envisioned during the time of Joshua, but during this time, things are different. It is sort of saying to us that God has included us Gentiles as His own children together with His people.

What is spoken in the New Testament about our inheritance?

In Ephesians 1:13-15, Paul says “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.” Firstly, the deposit of our inheritance is the Holy Spirit. We are sure of the inheritance we have one day from God because of the Holy Spirit who is with us.

Later, Paul continues in Ephesians 1:18-19 “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.” Part of our glorious inheritance is simply belonging to God’s holy people. We who hope in Jesus become part of His royal family and able to receive His incomparably great power!

The Scripture also warns in Ephesians 5:5 “For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.” Some think they can continue to enjoy sin after they are saved. However, the Scripture is clear that those who continue to be immoral, impure or greedy has no inheritance in the kingdom of God.

Hebrews 9:15 makes it clear for us that it is only because of Jesus Christ that we can receive the promised eternal inheritance, as it is written “
For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.”

And in 1 Peter 1:3-5, our inheritance is beautifully described as one that can never perish, spoil or fade, but is kept in heaven for us. “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.”

Application: Praise God for the marvelous heavenly inheritance that He has prepared for us. Let the vision of our heavenly inheritance move us away from obsession or trust in earthly things, but towards hope in heavenly things. Recognize that God’s people are part of our glorious inheritance. We are part of God’s great family called together to be in Him. Examine our lives to see if we are in sin, recognizing that no immoral, impure or greedy person will inherit the kingdom of God. Our minds are key. It is so important to set our minds in looking towards Christ, and growing in Him rather than looking at the world and how to gratify the sinful nature.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I thank You that it is only in Your sacrifice alone that I am able to have a heavenly inheritance. Lead me, dear Lord, each step of the way, that I may look heavenward and seek Your glory rather than the things of the earth. Strengthen us and uphold us O Lord. Blessed be Your name. In Jesus name, Amen.

The trees by the river

The trees by the river

Scripture: Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor will their fruit fail. Every month they will bear fruit, because the water from the sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing.” Ezekiel 47:12

Observation: This particular topic has a special place in my heart, as I have named my blog – tree-by-waters.blogspot.com. Trees are mentioned from the very beginning of the Bible, and were created even before the creatures. They are meant by God to be a source of food, of life for every living creature. However, at the same time, the tree of knowledge of good and evil in the centre of the Garden of Eden was the subject of man’s fall because Adam disobeyed the Lord’s command not to eat from it.

Thereafter, Abraham came to dwell under the great trees of Mamre at Hebron. The picture of Abraham dwelling under the great shady trees there reminds us of God Himself being like a great shade over us, giving us comfort and shelter. As the Psalmist writes “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the almighty”.

Just as God created fruit bearing plants to bear fruit and give life, He too created man to bear fruit. John the Baptist warned in Matthew 3:10 “
The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.” The Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Throughout Scripture, men are very often likened to a tree, and as we study it, we can find certain qualities that cause a tree to bear fruit.

The first and probably most well loved Scripture on this topic is from Psalms 1 which speaks about how blessed is the man who does not follow evil but instead delights on God’s law and meditates on it day and night. He is likened to a tree beside streams of living water, which bears fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither – whatever he does prospers. The first quality we should desire to have is to shun evil and love God’s Word.

In Psalm 52:8, David exclaimed “But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God’s unfailing love for ever and ever.” The second quality is trust in God. Jeremiah 17:7-8 also gives us a wonderful picture of this ““But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”

The third quality is righteousness. Psalm 92:12 says “The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon” and  Proverbs 11:30 proclaims “the fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives.” The Scripture says that “the righteous shall live by faith”. We are righteous not by our works but by faith in salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ who has covered us with His righteousness. Does this mean we are no longer sinners? No, we still sin, due to our fallen nature. However, in our heart there is a desire to be righteous, and our mind is set on becoming more and more like Jesus. One day, when Jesus returns, He will make us perfect, just as He is perfect.

The next quality is a soothing tongue. The tongue has the power of life and death. A tongue that speaks words of hope, of encouragement, of life, is like a tree of life, bringing good and healing to many. The opposite is a perverse tongue that tears down and corrupts. The tongue is a dangerous member of our bodies, but we need to make it submissive to our Lord Jesus.

This picture in Ezekiel of the river of life from the temple causing trees to grow and bear fruit and leaves for healing can interestingly also be seen in Revelation. “Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.” Revelation 22:1-2

Application: Desire to bear fruit and pray to God to give us more of His Holy Spirit. Pray for a greater hunger for God’s Word. Trust in God more and more. Believe that Jesus has made us righteous, and desire to live out His righteousness more and more. Submit our tongues to our Lord Jesus. Let Him change the way we speak.

Prayer: Lord, I thank You for Your river of life that flows through me and gives me life and hope. Let Your Spirit dwell so deeply in me that I will bear His fruit and be a blessing to others.  I submit my tongue to You O Lord. Help me speak words that heal and build up rather than wound and tear down. All that I am, all that I have, use it for Your glory O Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.