United We Stand - Acts 2:42-47; 4:23-24, 29-35 - July 1, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – United We Stand – July 1, 2007

Our background scripture is Acts 2:41-47; 4:1-37.

Our focal scripture is Acts 2:42-47; 4:23-24, 29-35.

This begins a new series of study entitled “Let’s Do Church Right.” Our focal scripture for our series will be taken from the Book of Acts.

The Book of Acts was written by Doctor Luke for Theophilus. Theophilus was likely an influential acquaintance of Doctor Luke who wanted to know the details about this new movement involving JESUS called “The Way” or later “Christianity.” Likely Theophilus commissioned Luke to give him a historical record of the life of CHRIST as Luke recorded in the Gospel of Luke and the continued activities of the HOLY SPIRIT in the lives of believers especially the Apostles as recorded in The Book of Acts.

Doctor Luke was a physician who was close to the Apostles and traveled with Paul. He records the activities of the Apostles as they established Christian fellowships (churches) and spread the gospel of JESUS CHRIST. He records the workings of the HOLY SPIRIT in the lives of the Apostles and these new believers. He gives us a good look at the life of the early church.

These early Christians were looking for the return of CHRIST at any moment. They wanted others to know about CHRIST and to be ready when HE returned.

This is true for us today. We are even closer to the return of CHRIST than ever before. We should, as the early Christians, have a sense of urgency about getting the gospel to all people. CHRIST will either return or we will be meeting HIM when our time comes to leave earth and join HIM in heaven.
Our previous lessons have focused on Christians entering into the Spiritual Promised Land here upon earth. These lessons will focus on what Christians will do in the Spiritual Promised Land.

As always Christians have choices. When we know the truth, will we share the truth of JESUS with others or will we hide the truth? Will we share our possessions with others in need both spiritually and physically?

CHRIST wants us to share the Goods News which is the gospel of CHRIST. The gospel is the good news about CHRIST. CHRIST lived as 100% human yet HE was 100% GOD, HE was tempted in all ways as we are yet HE lived a sinless life; HE died for our sins, was resurrected from death, showed Himself to over 500 people before HE ascended into heaven and sent the HOLY SPIRIT back to indwell the body of all believers. HE gives us the gift of grace, gives us the gift of eternal life, gives us the assurance of salvation and makes us part of GOD’S family through the miracle of rebirth in our spirit.

Now let’s take a look at the life of the early church through the eyes of Doctor Luke as he recorded it in the pages of Acts. Our study today focuses on the unity of these new believers. Unity is the key for serving GOD. First, we must have unity within our hearts as an individual and then we must have unity as a body of believers. A house divided cannot stand.

Let’s read Acts 2:42-47:

42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayers. 43 Then fear came over everyone, and many wonders and signs were being performed through the apostles. 44 Now all the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 So they sold their possessions and property and distributed the proceeds to all, as anyone had a need.[14] Or to all, according to one’s needs 46 And every day they devoted themselves [to meeting]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. together in the • temple complex, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And every day the Lord added to them[15] Other mss read to the church those who were being saved.

This is after the arrival of the HOLY SPIRIT on Pentecost and Peter had preached during the Festival of Weeks or Pentecost. After Peter’s sermon 3,000 people accepted JESUS as their SAVIOR. This was only the beginning of many others becoming believer’s because the scripture tells us that new believers were added daily.

Pentecost was a celebration fifty (50) days after the Passover. It was a well attended celebration in Jerusalem. GOD knew that the Festival would attract a broad mixture of people. (Note the scripture below – salves, gentiles, priests, orphans, widows, sons and daughters were invited.) Those who attended the Festival gave a freewill offering in proportion to how the LORD had blessed them. GOD’S timing is awesome. GOD blessed the new believers with the HOLY SPIRIT and in turn the new believers shared both the good news of CHRIST and physical sustenance with others.

Those who were invited to attend this celebration are recorded in Deuteronomy 16:9-12:

The Festival of Weeks (Pentecost)
9 “You are to count seven weeks, counting the weeks from the time the sickle is first [put]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. to the standing grain.[3] Lv 23:15–21 10 You are to celebrate the Festival of Weeks to the Lord your God with a freewill offering that you give in proportion to how the Lord your God has blessed you. 11 Rejoice before the Lord your God in the place where He chooses to have His name dwell—you, your son and daughter, your male and female slave, the Levite within your gates, as well as the foreign resident, the fatherless, and the widow among you. 12 Remember that you were slaves in Egypt; carefully follow these statutes.

Speculation is that many who had traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost decided to remain because they had become Christian’s. They had found the truth in JESUS, as the promised Messiah and the HOLY SPIRIT had confirmed this truth in their hearts. They wanted the fullness of CHRIST in their lives and to learn of HIM. So they remained in Jerusalem to hear from the Apostles. As a result Jerusalem was very crowded.

The young Christians were eager to hear the Apostles pass along all that CHRIST had taught them. They witnessed the power of the HOLY SPIRIT through many signs and wonders. Verse 43 uses the word “fear”. This is not “fear” as being afraid but being in “awe” of what they were observing and experiencing. They knew that the power of GOD was being manifested in their midst. They had never witnessed such a happening, it was a physical confirmation of the presence and power of GOD. This caused some to fear or stand in awe. The signs and wonders got their attention. As a result many gave their lives to CHRIST daily.

Those who lived in the area sold their homes, land, possessions and gave what they had for the common good of their fellow brothers and sisters in CHRIST.

Their willingness to share reveals that their hearts had been changed by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. The attitude of the heart is key in serving GOD.

As we study these lessons, we must keep in mind that this is not a receipt for performing. If we have the wrong attitude of heart, we will work very hard and be miserable. If the LORD leads us then, although hard, it will be rewarding.

Let’s read Acts 4:23-24, 29-31:

23 After they were released, they went to their own fellowship[6] Or friends, or companions and reported all that the • chief priests and the elders had said to them. 24 When they heard this, they raised their voices to God unanimously and said, “Master, You are the One who made the heaven, the earth, and the sea, and everything in them.
29 And now, Lord, consider their threats, and grant that Your slaves may speak Your message with complete boldness, 30 while You stretch out Your hand for healing, signs, and wonders to be performed through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” 31 When they had prayed, the place where they were assembled was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak God’s message with boldness.

The Apostles Peter and John were on their way to the temple to pray. A man lame from birth asked them for money. This account is recorded in Acts 3:1-10:

1 Now Peter and John were going up together to the • temple complex at the hour of prayer at three in the afternoon.[1] Lit at the ninth hour 2 And a man who was lame from his mother’s womb was carried there and placed every day at the temple gate called Beautiful, so he could beg from those entering the temple complex. 3 When he saw Peter and John about to enter the temple complex, he asked for help. 4 Peter, along with John, looked at him intently and said, “Look at us.” 5 So he turned to them,[2] Or he paid attention to them expecting to get something from them. 6 But Peter said, “I have neither silver nor gold, but what I have, I give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ the • Nazarene, get up and walk!” 7 Then, taking him by the right hand he raised him up, and at once his feet and ankles became strong. 8 So he jumped up, stood, and started to walk, and he entered the temple complex with them—walking, leaping, and praising God.[3] Isaiah 35:4–6 9 All the people saw him walking and praising God, 10 and they recognized that he was the one who used to sit and beg at the Beautiful Gate of the temple complex. So they were filled with awe and astonishment at what had happened to him.

Notice they were going to the temple to pray. The temple was still the focal point but now there was a new message being taught by the Christians. The new believers were meeting in the temple area and in homes. JESUS while HE walked upon earth went to the temple to teach. So the temple was the place to go. The temple is where people came because they were seeking forgiveness of their sins and had a desire to know GOD and have a relationship with GOD.

The healing of the lame man was proof of GOD’S power and got the attention of those in and around the temple. The combination of GOD healing of the lame man, the Apostles presenting the gospel of CHRIST and the power of the HOLY SPIRIT resulted in 5,000 people becoming believers in CHRIST as their SAVIOR. This did not set well with the Jewish religious leaders. In particular the Sadducees did not like the Apostles reference to the resurrection of CHRIST because they did not believe in the resurrection of the dead. That is why they were sad-u-see. So Peter and John were held in custody over night.

Our scripture picks up after Peter and John are released from custody and they return to their fellowships.

Peter and John give a report of what happened. Let’s examine some of the key words which will reveal the attitude of these young believer’s hearts.

In verse 24 they refer to GOD as “Master.” This is the strongest word which means absolute rule and authority. The absolute authority is GOD WHO is sovereign as demonstrated by the fact that HE created heaven, earth, sea and everything in them. GOD had also revealed HIS power through signs and wonders. As a result, these early Christians were willing to place complete trust in HIM. This is the key for serving GOD. Do we trust and have utmost confidence in HIM? If not, could that be one reason we, as Christians today, do not see the manifestation of GOD’S power through signs and wonders through our lives?

In verse 29, notice the word “grant.” Grant denotes a sense of urgency or “do it now”. Then they used the word “slaves.” This expresses the attitude of their hearts. They were ready to serve our LORD as HE directed. They were aware of the threat from the religious authorities but they wanted to speak with boldness. They had a sense of urgency to tell others about JESUS. Do we have that same sense of urgency? If not, do we have an attitude of our heart problem?

In verse 30, they acknowledge the LORD as the source of signs and wonders. They wanted to speak with boldness as HE continued to perform signs and wonders. The Jewish religious leaders wanted them to be quiet but the new believers wanted to shout the good news of CHRIST from the roof tops. They wanted to be bold witnesses for the LORD.

When the attitude of their heart matched their willingness to serve the LORD the very foundation of earth was shaken. GOD confirmed their confidence in HIM with something only GOD could do. HE shook the ground.

In verse 31, we read that they were filled with the HOLY SPIRIT. This could raise questions regarding the HOLY SPIRIT. We know that JESUS sent the HOLY SPIRIT at Pentecost. All believers from Pentecost to this moment receive the HOLY SPIRT at the moment they believe in JESUS.

The new believers were born-again in their spirit. They were children of GOD and had eternal life. So what is happening in the scripture we just read?

I have to go back to my own conversion experience. I accepted CHRIST when I was about 9 years old. Often, when I give my testimony I will say, “I think I became a Christian when I was about 9 years old.” I was never sure. I struggled for years trying to figure out what it meant to be a Christian. I was a very poor Christian when I compared myself to other Christians. I was in my 30’s and had a renewed interest in serving the LORD as a Christian. I tried very hard to be what I thought a Christian was supposed to be. I could not do it. It was very frustrating to me. I felt defeated and helpless. There was no power in my life and no assurance of salvation. When I thought about dying I thought if my good out weighed my bad then I would go to heaven. My concept of Christianity was performance oriented.

I was driving to work early one morning, June 1971 and I was praying. I told the LORD that I had tried to live the so called Christian life and just could not do it. I said I had cleaned up 60% or 70% of my life and could turn it over to HIM but the remaining 30-40% I could not control. Therefore, I would give HIM all of my life, the good and the bad, if HE would give me the strength to live the Christian life.

Well let me tell you, in the twinkling of the eye HE took my life as it was and from that moment forward it has been an awesome journey with HIM. I had to yield the control of my life to HIS control. When I did it was an overwhelming sense of joy and assurance. It was me getting out of the way and allowing the HOLY SPIRIT to take over the direction of my life. In other words, I was filled with the HOLY SPIRIT.

When the new believers acknowledged GOD as Master of their lives, they determined they would serve CHRIST regardless of the cost. They empted themselves of self and they were filled with the HOLY SPIRIT. Think of a glass to drink from. If it is filled with tea but you want it to be filled with water, you must empty the tea. Then you can fill the glass with water. As long as self rules our lives the LORD cannot. Allow HIM to be the LORD of your life. Empty the rule of self from your life and ask HIM to fill you with the HOLY SPIRIT. Awesome!!!

Let’s read Acts 4:32-35:

32 Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of his possessions was his own, but instead they held everything in common. 33 And with great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was on all of them. 34 For there was not a needy person among them, because all those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35 and laid them at the apostles’ feet. This was then distributed to each person as anyone had a need.

Once again we see the attitude of the heart. They were of one heart. There was unity among the believers. They voluntarily shared with each other. Selling their possessions and sharing with others was not a mandatory. Each believer responded as they felt led to respond.

We must be careful. Often we see other Christians giving and they get the praise of others. This may prompt us to give. We have to be careful. Are we giving because we are led to give from a pure heart or do we want to be praised?

Remember the new believers were selling their property and possessions and laying the proceeds at the feet of the Apostles. But there was a couple whose heart was not pure. The event is recorded in Acts 5:1-11:

1 But a man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a piece of property. 2 However, he kept back part of the proceeds with his wife’s knowledge, and brought a portion of it and laid it at the apostles’ feet. 3 Then Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the proceeds from the field? 4 Wasn’t it yours while you possessed it? And after it was sold, wasn’t it at your disposal? Why is it that you planned this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God!” 5 When he heard these words, Ananias dropped dead, and a great fear came on all who heard. 6 The young men got up, wrapped [his body]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , carried him out, and buried him. 7 There was an interval of about three hours; then his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 “Tell me,” Peter asked her, “did you sell the field for this price?” “Yes,” she said, “for that price.” 9 Then Peter said to her, “Why did you agree to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look! The feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out!” 10 Instantly she dropped dead at his feet. When the young men came in, they found her dead, carried her out, and buried her beside her husband. 11 Then great fear came on the whole church and on all who heard these things.

Again this was all voluntary. Ananias and Sapphira did not have to do what they did. HE wants us to serve HIM with a pure heart. HE knows our heart and whether or not we are being truthful or deceitful.

Unity is critical in the body of believers. When we are unified, much can be accomplish as our LORD leads us. There are many denominations that serve our LORD. May all Christians be unified with a pure heart before the LORD to accomplish HIS work.

Renew Your Devotion to GOD Today - Deuteronomy 29:10-15; 30:1-3,6,11-14,19-20 - June 24, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Renew Your Devotion To GOD Today – June 24, 2007

Our background scripture is Deuteronomy 27-34.

Our focus scripture is Deuteronomy 29:10-15; 30:1-3, 6, 11-14, 19-20.

This is our last lesson in this series. It gives all Christians hope even when, as Christian’s, we have been in our Spiritual Promised Land and an enemy, our flesh, took us captive from the Promised Land.

GOD is speaking through Moses to the new generation of Israelites. Moses is giving the Israelites prophesy of things to come. The Israelites will enter the Promised Land about 1406 BC but after enjoying a long time of plenty, they will be led astray and worship strange gods. GOD will allow them to be captured and carried off into a foreign land. The northern kingdom falls about 722 BC and the southern kingdom falls to Babylon about 586 BC. The Jews are carried off to Babylon, which we know today as Iraq. The first Jews did not leave Babylon until 538 BC. Nehemiah rebuilds the Jerusalem wall about 445 BC.

This is just like our human life. Once our defenses are weakened or our wall is breached, the enemy comes in and ravages our kingdom. We are led into a foreign land. Once we come to our senses, GOD makes it clear that we can always come back into fellowship with HIM. Our walls have to be rebuilt, so-to-speak. We rebuild those walls by reading GOD’S Word, prayer (talking to GOD), fellowshipping with HIM, praising HIM, being honest with HIM, being obedient to HIM, by serving HIM, just to list a few of the building blocks toward restoration. We are fully restored at the moment we make our decision to come back to HIM but it often takes time for us to forgive ourselves and to work through issues as a result of being lead astray.
GOD tells the Israelites that once they come to their senses then they can come back to the Promised Land. The key is that the generation hearing this will be dead. So they must tell their offspring and their offspring must tell their offspring, etc. about GOD’S provision so when these things happen to them, they will remember the hope that GOD offers. And that is they can re-enter the Promised Land.

The same is true with us as Christians. When we have known the joy of the benefits and privilege of dwelling in our Spiritual Promise Land and have been led astray by our flesh, we can always come back. We must acknowledge our sin (confess our sin), ask GOD to forgive us of our sin, repent (which means stop sinning) and return to fellowship and a renewed relationship with our LORD. GOD is The GOD of second, third, fourth, fifth, etc. chances. HIS desire is for all HIS children to come to HIM and to be obedient to HIM.

Let’s examine our scripture.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 29:10-15:

10 “All of you are standing today before the Lord your God—your leaders, tribes, elders, officials, all the men of Israel, 11 your children, your wives, and the foreigners in your camps who cut your wood and draw your water— 12 so that you may enter into the covenant of the Lord your God, which He is making with you today, so that you may enter into His oath 13 and so that He may establish you today as His people and He may be your God as He promised you and as He swore to your fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 14 I am making this covenant and this oath not only with you, 15 but also with those who are standing here with us today in the presence of the Lord our God and with those who are not here today.

All of the new generation of Israelites, their families, servants, etc. were gathered to renew the covenant their ancestors had made with GOD about forty (40) years earlier. GOD wanted the new generation to rededicate themselves to HIM before they entered the Promised Land. Notice everyone is included. This is prophesy regarding the coming of CHRIST to redeem all mankind, Jew and Gentile alike.

Also, notice in verse 15 that the renewal of the covenant applied to all standing there and those not standing. Did this mean that if some were sick and could not attend at that moment that the renewal extended to them? Yes, it did apply to all alive at that moment but it also applied to those not yet born. It applied to all the generations to follow. Those living and hearing the words of Moses had the responsibility to pass this information on to other generations, so they would know that GOD is a GOD WHO forgives and restores. The key is that the people must come to their senses and see that GOD is GOD and desire to return to HIM.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 30:1-3, 6:

1 “When all these things happen to you—the blessings and curses I have set before you—and you come to your senses [while you are]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. in all the nations where the Lord your God has driven you, 2 and you and your children return to the Lord your God and obey Him with all your heart and all your soul by doing[1] Lit soul according to everything I am giving you today, 3 then He will restore your fortunes,[2] Or will end your captivity have compassion on you, and gather you again from all the peoples where the Lord your God has scattered you.[3] Lv 26:40–45; 1 Kg 8:46–50

6 The Lord your God will circumcise your heart[5] Dt 10:16; Jr 4:4 and the hearts of your descendants, and you will love Him with all your heart and all your soul, so that you will live.

Moses outlines a number of curses and blessing that would fall upon them in Chapter 29. Notice in verse 1 “and you come to your senses”, then you and your children will be restored. But, also, notice HE wants them to be completely committed to HIM. It is not oh I am in a bad situation, therefore I will cry out to GOD and HE will deliver me. GOD wants to know that we have had a genuine change of heart. It is vital that we really recognize and acknowledge that HE is the only ONE WHO can restore us. Just know that GOD looks at the attitude of your heart. HE knows when we are sincere.

HIS promise is that HE will restore and reestablish all who have a sincere desire to be restored to HIM. Notice this also includes our families and descendants. We as the head of the family must set the example of genuine dedication to GOD. This is why we renew our devotion to GOD or rededicate our lives to GOD. The Israelites did this in public. Our family needs to know when we take a stand for our LORD and rededicate our lives to HIM.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 30:11-14:

11 “This command that I give you today is certainly not too difficult or beyond your reach. 12 It is not in heaven, so that you have to ask, ‘Who will go up to heaven, get it for us, and proclaim it to us so that we may follow it?’ 13 And it is not across the sea, so that you have to ask, ‘Who will cross the sea, get it for us, and proclaim it to us so that we may follow it?’ 14 But the message is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart, so that you may follow it.[7] Rm 10:6–8

GOD makes it clear to the Israelites that renewing the covenant with HIM is not difficult. There are no excuses for delaying to renew your devotion to HIM because HE is right there with them. HE is within their reach. They do not have to go some place else. In fact HE is so close to them that HE is in their being. This is again prophesy regarding CHRIST coming to earth as a human, living a sinless life upon earth and sanctifying the human body to be the dwelling place for the HOLY SPIRIT for all believers. We as Christians are blessed indeed because the HOLY SPIRIT dwells within each one of us. The HOLY SPIRIT’S function is to teach us, enlighten us, empower us, to be our security deposit, to be our anchor, to reveal and confirm that we are GOD’S child, to give us assurance of salvation and much, much more.

1. Let’s read Deuteronomy 30:19-20:

19 I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Choose life so that you and your descendants may live, 20 love the Lord your God, obey Him, and remain faithful[10] Lit and hold on to Him. For He is your life, and He will prolong your life in the land the Lord swore to give to your fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”

GOD had cautioned the Israelites about not making any image of HIM. I thought it interesting that GOD calls as HIS witness to them heaven and earth. These are GOD’S creations and man cannot make any claim about having anything to do with creating them. These are made by the unseen GOD WHOM you worship.

As you may recall from the June 10th lesson:

Let’s read Deuteronomy 4:15-20:

15 “Be extremely careful for your own good—because you did not see any form on the day the Lord spoke to you at Horeb out of the fire— 16 not to act corruptly and make an idol for yourselves in the shape of any figure: a male or female form, 17 or the form of any beast on the earth, any winged creature that flies in the sky, 18 any creature that crawls on the ground, or any fish in the waters under the earth. 19 When you look to the heavens and see the sun, moon, and stars—all the array of heaven—do not be led astray to bow down and worship them. The Lord your God has provided them for all people everywhere under heaven. 20 But the Lord selected you and brought you out of Egypt’s iron furnace to be a people for His inheritance, as you are today.

As GOD’S people behold the world, know that I AM GOD and I have the power to create all that your eyes can see. When you choose ME you also choose life for yourself and your family. You are to be an example for your family. When you devote yourself to ME, it will not only give you an abundant life but it will also benefit your family.

We can renew our devotion to GOD in a church service or we can renew our devotion to GOD wherever we are. We should respond at the moment the HOLY SPIRIT prompts us to respond. The importance of renewing our commitment to GOD publicly, such as in during a worship service, is to reveal to others that we are serious about our decision. It also shows GOD that we are not ashamed of publicly taking a stand for HIM. It should alert fellow believers of our commitment and they will pray for us, be available to help us grow and mature in our renewal to our LORD and come to our aid when needed.

Rededicate your life to CHRIST today. Ask HIM to give you the strength to live your life as HE chooses. It may be that you have been performing and trying to live the Christian life in your own strength. I can tell you that is impossible. Remember all Christians are under grace. What GOD wants from us is an intimate loving relationship with HIM. Spend time with HIM to get to know HIM and let HIM direct your activity of service. HE will reveal to you the work that HE is doing and will ask you to join HIM in that work when HE has equipped you to do that work. Watch, wait and abide in HIM. May our LORD bless you and keep you in the palm of HIS hand.

Remember The LORD is GOD - Deuteronomy 8:1-11, 17-18 - June 17, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Remember The LORD is GOD – June 17, 2007

Our background scripture is Deuteronomy Chapter 6 – 11.

Our focus scripture is Deuteronomy 8:1-11, 17-18.

This is lesson three (3) in our series of Bible study. To me this is an exciting lesson. Come journey with our LORD as HE leads us into the Promised Land of Christian living.

In preparing for this lesson the LORD gave me a clear understanding of how this scripture does indeed compare to our walk as a Christian. It is a journey of faith and we can experience the Promised Land of Spiritual relationship with HIM on earth.

Most, if not all, Christians have a time along their journey with our LORD when they have wandered or currently are wandering in the wilderness. It is during these times in the wilderness that our LORD is preparing us and revealing to us that HE can care for us. This is to build our confidence and trust in HIM to give us courage to enter our Spiritual Promised Land.

Moses continues to preach to the new generation of Israelites to prepare them to enter their Promised Land. The Land GOD had obtained for their forefathers some forty (40) years earlier but their lack of faith prevented them from obtaining it. The old generation had to die off before the new generation could enter the Promised Land. The new generation wandered in the wilderness as they grew and matured. During those days they saw the hand of GOD working.

Just think for a moment about that and compare this situation to our Christian journey with our LORD. The Israelites are physically preparing to journey into a physical place that is flowing with plenty. The worship of GOD would be more performance orientated. We as Christians are being prepared to journey into a Spiritual relationship with our LORD that will be replete with spiritual bounty. Our relationship with GOD is through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. We are a child of GOD through the miracle of rebirth. So we have a physical/Spiritual/family relationship with GOD through CHRIST.

As a Christian our old life, our flesh, must die and give way to our new life in CHRIST. For many of us this takes a long time; often forty (40) years or longer. Our old life must come under the authority of the HOLY SPIRIT before we are prepared to enter our Spiritual Promised Land here upon earth.

The Physical Promised Land is GOD’S gift to the Israelites.

JESUS is GOD’S great gift to all mankind and our Spiritual Promised Land is also a gift.

The Physical Promised Land is a place of plenty but the Israelites would have to work to obtain what was in the land. Our Spiritual Promised Land is the place where we will serve and be obedient to our LORD and SAVIOR JESUS. We will fellowship with HIM. HE will be as personal to us as our closest friend upon earth. We will walk with HIM and talk with HIM.

Our spiritual Promised Land is the place where we know GOD, fellowship with HIM as Adam and Eve did. We can walk with HIM in the cool of the evening as described in Genesis.

Just as Adam had to work and have responsibility in the Garden of Eden, we as Christians will still work and be obedient to our LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST as HE directs our lives. For a Christian to dwell in the Spiritual Promised Land does not necessarily mean we have to quit our jobs or change our careers. We can be ordained bakers, lawyers, used car sales person, clerks, service personnel, police, military, doctors, housekeepers, mothers, housewives, teachers, garbage collectors, cab drivers, EMS and the list goes on and on. GOD may call some to go into a full time Christian career. But HE will call and you will know HIS call because you will be in relationship with HIM.

The key is when we have the relationship with HIM, we will always be in the center of HIS will and we will know exactly what HE wants us to do. If it is to abide (rest and wait) and learn of HIM, then that is what we do as we do our regular work.

As Christians we all have the light of CHRIST in us and are called, as the HOLY SPIRIT prompts, to share CHRIST. It may be as simple as others seeing CHRIST in us as we go about our daily routine in life. We may offer a cup of cold water to a fellow traveler. Do not think because, in your eyes, GOD has not called or led you to do something grand that you are not doing the will of GOD. Just be obedient to whatever GOD directs you to do.

GOD has blessed many people with material blessings. Let HIM guide you in sharing those blessings with others. Seek the relationship first and then follow HIS commands.

Let’s journey together into the Physical and concurrently the Spiritual Promised Lands.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 8:1-5:

1 “You must carefully follow every command I am giving you today, so that you may live and increase, and may enter and take possession of the land the Lord swore to your fathers. 2 Remember that the Lord your God led you on the entire journey these 40 years in the wilderness, so that He might humble you and test you to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep His commands. 3 He humbled you by letting you go hungry; then He gave you manna to eat, which you and your fathers had not known, so that you might learn that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.[1] Mt 4:4; Lk 4:4 4 Your clothing did not wear out, and your feet did not swell these 40 years.[2] Dt 29:5; Neh 9:21 5 Keep in mind that the Lord your God has been disciplining you just as a man disciplines his son.

Let’s consider verse 5. There are times we think the non-believers get away with wrong doing more than Christians. Think about that? What does verse 5 tells us? GOD disciplines HIS children. If you are not HIS child, HE still cares and HE will call you to salvation.

GOD will never give HIS children any thing that will harm them. So part of the preparation of receiving blessings is for HIS children to be completely focused upon HIM. This is best done by having a loving intimate relationship with HIM.

This is accomplished by spending time with HIM getting to know HIM. This is not going to a monastery and being isolated from the world but it is simply living everyday life and seeking HIS guidance through everyday living. Focus upon HIS Word, talk with HIM in prayer, fellowship with HIM and be obedient.

Moses reminds the new generation not to forget the experiences of their time in the wilderness. This generation grew up in the wilderness and experienced GOD’S provisions for them during that experience. We as Christians must, also, remember our time in the wilderness. Even when we were in the wilderness, GOD took care of us and provided for us. Just think about it.

During our time in the wilderness we wanted a deeper walk and experience with our LORD but it seemed to elude us. Our flesh would rise up and rob us of experiencing the fullness of CHRIST in us. But GOD knew the areas in our lives that needed to be brought under HIS authority. A nature, habit or an addiction that robbed us from being all GOD wanted and intended for us to be in CHRIST. GOD allowed us to go through that awful time for HIM to show us that HE would get us through the bad times in our lives. HE focuses on what we can be and not what we are. HE wants every Christian to live in the Spiritual Promised Land but there are requirements for entering.

Look at verse 3. JESUS quoted this verse to Satan when HE was tested, tried and tempted in the wilderness. JESUS had HIS time in the wilderness to prepare HIM for HIS journey for our salvation.

Matthew 4:1-4:

1 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the Devil. 2 After He had fasted 40 days and 40 nights, He was hungry. 3 Then the tempter approached Him and said, “If You are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” 4 But He answered, “It is written: Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”[1] Dt 8:3

The wilderness is GOD’S proving ground and we, also, will be tried, tested and tempted in the wilderness. But even during the wilderness experience the Israelites saw that GOD provided; JESUS knew that HIS FATHER would provide and we, also, will see or have seen that GOD provides.

The Israelites saw that during those forty (40) years the very clothes they were wearing did not wear out. This was before polyester.

As a Christian, neither do our clothes of salvation wear out during our time in the wilderness. Remember the provision and care of our LORD during our time in the wilderness when we enter the land of Spiritual plenty.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 8:6-10:

6 So keep the commands of the Lord your God by walking in His ways and • fearing Him. 7 For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land, a land with streams of water, springs, and deep water sources, flowing in both valleys and hills; 8 a land of wheat, barley, vines, figs, and pomegranates; a land of olive oil and honey; 9 a land where you will eat food without shortage, where you will lack nothing; a land whose rocks are iron and from whose hills you will mine copper. 10 When you eat and are full, you will praise the Lord your God for the good land He has given you.

Again, it is very important to stay focused on GOD when we arrive in the land of plenty. Walking in HIS ways carries the intent of ongoing action. “Fearing HIM” is not hiding and being afraid of HIM but treating HIM with honor, reverence and respect. Never forget that HE is the provider.

GOD, through Moses, describes the Promised Land that HE has obtained for them. Let’s read verses 6-10. Now let’s explore the spiritual comparison.

Verse 6 gives us GOD’S expectation for us to journey with HIM. HE wants us to have a heart and an attitude that is in step with HIM. When we are walking with HIM, HE will bring us into a spiritual relationship as deep as we want. First, the land is good. The land has all that is needed for growth. There is plenty of water. The water I think represents the HOLY SPIRIT. There is easy to get to water that flows in a stream. But there is also spring water that you can search for and find. But if you really want to commit to the LORD in the deepest way possible there is bountiful, living water that can be found deep. You can find these sources of water whether you are in the valleys or the hills. No matter what stage of life you are in the water is available to you.

JESUS told the woman at the well.

John 4:7-14: (Living Water)

7 A woman of Samaria came to draw water. “Give Me a drink,” Jesus said to her, 8 for His disciples had gone into town to buy food. 9 “How is it that You, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a • Samaritan woman?” she asked Him. For Jews do not associate with[5] Or do not share vessels with Samaritans.[6] Other mss omit For Jews do not associate with Samaritans. 10 Jesus answered, “If you knew the gift of God, and who is saying to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would ask Him, and He would give you living water.” 11 “Sir,” said the woman, “You don’t even have a bucket, and the well is deep. So where do you get this ‘living water’? 12 You aren’t greater than our father Jacob, are you? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and livestock.” 13 Jesus said, “Everyone who drinks from this water will get thirsty again. 14 But whoever drinks from the water that I will give him will never get thirsty again—ever! In fact, the water I will give him will become a well[7] Or spring of water springing up within him for eternal life.” 15 “Sir,” the woman said to Him, “give me this water so I won’t get thirsty and come here to draw water.”

John7:37-39: (Streams of Living Water)
The Promise of the Spirit
37 On the last and most important day of the festival, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone is thirsty, he should come to Me[6] Other mss omit to Me and drink! 38 The one who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said,[7] Jesus may have had several OT passages in mind; Isaiah 58:11; Ezk 47:1–12; Zch 14:8 will have streams of living water flow from deep within him.” 39 He said this about the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were going to receive, for the Spirit[8] Other mss read Holy Spirit had not yet been received,[9] Other mss read had not yet been given [10] Lit the Spirit was not yet; the word received is implied from the previous clause. because Jesus had not yet been glorified.

Living water relates to the HOLY SPIRIT in our lives. JESUS tells us to come to HIM and streams of living water will flow from deep within us. It is all about yielding, obedience and knowing HIM through relationship.

In our Spiritual Promised Land there are a great variety of fruit that the HOLY SPIRIT produces. Keep in mind that the fruit of the SPIRIT has seeds and will reproduce. The Promised Land is replete with natural resources. We can plant, cultivate, grow and harvest as much fruit as we desire. We can mine as much natural resources as we desire. There are gems, gold, silver and valuable resources to be mined as we dwell in the SPIRITUAL Promised Land.

GOD cautions Christians because often we can get too big for our britches, so-to-speak, when things go smoothly. When GOD works through us and HE uses HIS power to move mountains, often we get the idea that it is our power because after all GOD needs us. Beware; this is the beginning of a great fall. It happened to the Israelites. They went into the Promised Land but they also lost it because of compromise.

I am convinced GOD is preparing some of you to enter the Spiritual Promised Land.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 8:11-20:

11 “Be careful that you don’t forget the Lord your God by failing to keep His command—the ordinances and statutes—I am giving you today. 12 When you eat and are full, and build beautiful houses to live in, 13 and your herds and flocks grow large, and your silver and gold multiply, and everything else you have increases, 14 [be careful]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. that your heart doesn’t become proud and you forget the Lord your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the place of slavery. 15 He led you through the great and terrible wilderness with its poisonous snakes and scorpions, a thirsty land where there was no water. He brought water out of the flintlike rock for you. 16 He fed you in the wilderness with manna[3] Ex 16:4 that your fathers had not known, in order to humble and test you, so that in the end He might cause you to prosper. 17 You may say to yourself, ‘My power and my own ability have gained this wealth for me,’ 18 but remember that the Lord your God gives you the power to gain wealth, in order to confirm His covenant He swore to your fathers, as it is today. 19 If you ever forget the Lord your God and go after other gods to worship and bow down to them, I testify against you today that you will perish. 20 Like the nations the Lord is about to destroy before you, you will perish if you do not obey the Lord your God.

GOD tells us to stay focused on HIM when we are in the land of plenty. HE tells us to always remember where we came from. We need to remember our escape from the slavery of sin. And we need to remember that GOD led us through the wilderness and performed miracles to care for us as we wandered in the wilderness. We need to remember that we are only in the Spiritual Promised Land because GOD obtained it for us through HIS ONLY SON JESUS.

Also, keep in mind that if you loose your first love there will be consequences. You will loose your relationship (Not your salvation) with GOD and you will loose the joy of knowing the LORD. Just know that entering the Promised Land has great rewards but because of your human nature it also offers the potential for compromise and complacency.

Verse 20 tells the Israelites about the enemies GOD will help them conquer as they enter the Promised Land. As we enter our Spiritual Promised Land, GOD will help us conquer our flesh nature and flesh enemies. When we are set free and experience the abundant life in CHRIST and enjoy the power of HIS presence in our lives, we must keep our focus upon HIM. Never forget that. GOD promises us that if we forget HIM, disaster will come to us. Again as a Christian we will not loose our salvation because once a child of GOD always a child of GOD. But we will loose our Spiritual Promised Land. Can it be restored? Yes. Confession - agreeing with GOD that you have sinned and repentance – stop sinning.

1 John 1:9:

9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

GOD cautions Christians not to let this happen to them. Stay on your guard and stay focused on HIM.

Especially in our prosperity GOD wants us to rely upon HIM. GOD loves to shower HIS children with many blessings. Our part is to never forget WHO gives those blessings whether they are material or spiritual blessings.

Remember The LORD is GOD!!!

Practice Obedience Digently - Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9, 15-20, 39-40 - June 10, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Practice Obedience Diligently – June 10, 2007

Our background scripture is Deuteronomy 4:1-5:33.

Our focus scripture is Deuteronomy 4:1-2. 6-9, 15-20, 39-40.

This is lesson two (2) in our study. Our scripture is taken from the Old Testament but the principles are relevant to us today. The major difference between then and now is that they were under the law but we are under grace. The law is still in effect. The law gives the world a standard of performance. JESUS put a fine point on the law by placing it into context of having to keep the spirit of the law in thought as well as deed. When we see the law in that context, most of us will respond, then how can any of us keep the spirit of the law? That is why we need JESUS and that is why we need grace that only GOD can give to all who are saved by grace through our LORD JESUS CHRIST.

Make GOD’S Word Your Standard. Our beginning scripture is Moses’ message from GOD to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. It is vital that we be spiritually prepared when we follow and serve our LORD.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 4:1-2:

1 “Now, Israel, listen to the statutes and ordinances I am teaching you to follow, so that you may live, enter, and take possession of the land the Lord, the God of your fathers, is giving you. 2 You must not add anything to what I command you or take anything away from it,[1] Dt 12:32; Rv 22:18–19 so that you may keep the commands of the Lord your God I am giving you.

Just as the Israelites had to be spiritually prepared to enter into the Promised Land, it is vital for Christians to be spiritually prepared to enter and for them to remain in the place GOD has provided for them. Moses is giving the Israelites and in turn each of us today some valuable advice.

Moses urged the Israelites to keep the commands of GOD. We must keep in mind that keeping the commands of GOD and making the sacrifices in the Old Testament showed the Israelites’ obedience to GOD. The keeping of the commands and rituals preserved them until they were fully redeemed by CHRIST in the New Testament. We as humans cannot keep the commands and rituals of GOD well enough to earn salvation. However, there is one command that will earn us salvation and that is acknowledging that JESUS is GOD’S ONLY SON, that HE died on the cross for our sins and HE was raised from the dead as proof that HE is WHO HE said HE is.

We as humans often try to rewrite the scriptures in our minds to justify our actions and our situations. Rewriting scripture, as we wish, always leads to confusion, loss of confidence and trust in GOD. GOD is sovereign and HE wants all of HIS children to know HIM as HE is and not how we want HIM to be. To really know HIM is critical in being obedient to HIM.

The next scripture is also critical in following and serving our LORD. It is vital that we walk with HIM to carefully guard our testimony. We may be the only Christian some people will encounter. May others see CHRIST in us.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 4:6-9:

6 Carefully follow [them]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , for this will [show]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. your wisdom and understanding in the eyes of the peoples. When they hear about all these statutes, they will say, ‘This great nation is indeed a wise and understanding people.’ 7 For what great nation is there that has a god near to it as the Lord our God is [to us]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. whenever we call to Him? 8 And what great nation has righteous statutes and ordinances like this entire law I set before you today? 9 “Only be on your guard and diligently watch yourselves, so that you don’t forget the things your eyes have seen and so that they don’t slip from your mind as long as you live. Teach them to your children and your grandchildren.

Moses is stressing the need for the Israelites to remember who they are. They are representing GOD to fellow Jews and to the people of other nations.

As Christians we have the same responsibility. Our testimony is critical as we journey through life. We journey through the world every day. We come into contact with many people each day. Some people we interact with directly e.g. our children, our spouse, other family members, business associates, the clerk at a store, the person at the fast food counter, socially, spiritually, conducting business, etc. Other people will observe us as we interact with others and as we encounter life’s situations.

Ouch!!! That hurts. I know that I am far from being all CHRIST wants me to be. How we speak and treat others and especially our family sends a message to others. The tone of our voice is important. Our temper and how we control it is critical. The list goes on and on. As a Christian we may be the only Bible others may read and determine whether or not they want to seek what we have in CHRIST or drive them away from seeking HIM.

This is tough. We all are human and often our flesh nature rises up when others just do not act like we think they should. This is not rolling over and putting up with bad behavior. It is controlling how we respond to bad behavior. This is tough. This is why we must have the relationship with our LORD to stay in balance and control during difficult moments. I blow it and have to confess it to the LORD and ask for forgiveness. This often results in me having to ask someone to forgive me for my actions. We have to maintain our testimony to be effective representatives for our LORD.

Maintaining our relationship with CHRIST will help us maintain our interaction with others. This is not rolling over and allowing others walk on us. But it is us conducting ourselves in a CHRIST like manner. There were times JESUS got angry. We can hate the sin but love the sinner.

Avoid Idolatry At All Costs.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 4:15-20:

15 “Be extremely careful for your own good—because you did not see any form on the day the Lord spoke to you at Horeb out of the fire— 16 not to act corruptly and make an idol for yourselves in the shape of any figure: a male or female form, 17 or the form of any beast on the earth, any winged creature that flies in the sky, 18 any creature that crawls on the ground, or any fish in the waters under the earth. 19 When you look to the heavens and see the sun, moon, and stars—all the array of heaven—do not be led astray to bow down and worship them. The Lord your God has provided them for all people everywhere under heaven. 20 But the Lord selected you and brought you out of Egypt’s iron furnace to be a people for His inheritance, as you are today.

GOD made it clear to the Israelites and HE makes it clear to us today, no images of HIM or of any thing else in an effort to represent HIM!!! HE makes it clear to the Israelites that they had only heard HIS voice and had never seen HIM.

We know from scripture that Moses asked GOD to let him see HIS face. GOD said no. But HE would let him see the back of HIS head. Now think about this for a minute. GOD has a face, a back and a body like ours because HE will walk past Moses and cover Moses with HIS hand as HE passes by. This is recorded in Exodus 33:17-22:

17 So the LORD said to Moses, "I will also do this thing that you have spoken; for you have found grace in My sight, and I know you by name." 18 And he said, "Please, show me Your glory." 19 Then He said, "I will make all My goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before you. I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion." 20 But He said, "You cannot see My face; for no man shall see Me, and live." 21 And the LORD said, "Here is a place by Me, and you shall stand on the rock. 22 "So it shall be, while My glory passes by, that I will put you in the cleft of the rock, and will cover you with My hand while I pass by. 23 "Then I will take away My hand, and you shall see My back; but My face shall not be seen."

The disciples asked JESUS to show them the FATHER. HIS answer is recorded in John 14:8-11:

8 “Lord,” said Philip, “show us the Father, and that’s enough for us.” 9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been among you all this time without your knowing Me, Philip? The one who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me?[5] Jn 10:30,38 The words I speak to you I do not speak on My own. The Father who lives in Me does His works. 11 Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me. Otherwise, believe[6] Other mss read believe Me because of the works themselves.

In verse 20, GOD told the Israelites that HE had brought them out of the iron furnace for HIS purpose to be HIS people and HIS nation. We have been saved and born-again for GOD’S purpose. To achieve that purpose we must be obedient to GOD. To be obedient we must know and trust GOD.
In the crucible of bondage of slavery in Egypt, GOD prepared the Israelites to journey to the Promised Land. HE selected a people to be HIS and to make a nation of them. Through them HE would give the ultimate gift to all mankind, HIS ONLY SON JESUS.

The crucible of life prepares us today to journey to our Promised Land. GOD leads the way. We are to join HIM as HE leads. Often most of us think we need to lead GOD. We are to be obedient as HE reveals truth to us through HIS Word and through the HOLY SPIRIT. This is why our relationship with HIM is critical.

We think paganism is dead today but many of us sacrifice our children and loved ones on the alter of neglect. We who know CHRIST are called by GOD to teach and be the Christian example to our children and the world we come in contact with every day. The most valuable things we can give are time and an example. We must put into practice what we preach. But often it is “Do as I say and not as I do.” We cannot have a dual standard. We must be consistent.

Realize GOD Blesses Obedience.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 4:39-40:

39 Today, recognize and keep in mind that the Lord is God in heaven above and on earth below; there is no other. 40 Keep His statutes and commands, which I am giving you today, so that you and your children after you may prosper and so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you for all time.”

Moses is reminding the Israelites that once they arrive in the Promised Land not to forget GOD. Do not let the gods of materialism, pride, a sense of security and a sense of plenty rule your lives.

All Christians have to be alert to becoming complacent when we arrive in our Promised Land. GOD is still GOD and we are to continue in our relationship with HIM. It is when we pull away from GOD that the god of this world moves into our lives to pull us back into the bondage of the flesh.

When Moses says to keep HIS statues and commands in verse 40 that you may prosper and live long, we must be careful. We can get the idea that when we serve GOD all will go well with us. This is not true. Christians have their portion of problems. Also, the word “prosper” does not necessarily mean prospering as the world interprets prosperity. In many instances “prosper” means to grow and mature spiritually. As we build our relationship with GOD nothing can compare with that relationship. Time with our loved ones is priceless. Time with our LORD is priceless. Time with our LORD brings peace to our being and we can give HIM all of our burdens, troubles and cares. When HE carries our burdens and we are obedient to HIM that results in longer life and peace with our fellow humans. Allowing HIM to carry our load relieves our stress. Harmony with our fellow man also relieves stress and lessens the possibility of confrontation.

Enter the Promised Land of fellowship with our LORD today by yielding your life to HIM and follow HIM obediently. Then the flood gates of heaven will open and flood your being with the joy of the LORD. GOD loves obedience. We as parents also love for our children to be obedient. GOD is no different!

Admit Your Struggle with Sin - Deuteronomy 1:6-8, 26-33, 42-46 and Numbers 13:17-33 - June 3, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Admit Your Struggle with Sin – June 3, 2007

We begin a new series of study entitled “Putting Passion in Your Relationship with GOD.”

Our scripture for the month of June will be in the Book of Deuteronomy:
June 3 – Admit Your Struggle With Sin.
June 10 – Practice Obedience Diligently.
June 17 – Remember the LORD is GOD.
June 24 – Renew Your Devotion Today.

Our scripture is Deuteronomy 1:6-8, 26-33, 42-46 and Numbers 13:17-33. (Background scripture is Deuteronomy 1:1-33:29.)

Every Christian struggles with sin. Our first step to deal with sin in our lives is to admit that we struggle with it and seek GOD’S power to overcome it. Sin is missing the mark. It carries the idea of an archer shooting an arrow at a target and missing. In today’s society rather than admitting we missed the target, we change the target. We redefine ethics.

We must keep in mind that GOD’S Word is our standard and most of us have to be reminded that GOD is GOD and HE has not changed. Neither has HIS expectations for HIS children changed. Our lesson is a reminder for us to remember what GOD has done and is doing for us and through us. GOD wants us to respond when HE asks us to be obedient.

The Book of Deuteronomy is a review of what GOD did for the Israelites as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land. Moses preached to the new generation of Israelites to prepare them to go into the Promised Land. They have been wandering in the wilderness for 40 years.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 1:6-8:

6 “The Lord our God spoke to us at Horeb (HOH reb), ‘You have stayed at this mountain long enough. 7 Resume your journey and go to the hill country of the Amorites (AM uh rights) and their neighbors in the Arabah (AH ruh bah), the hill country, the lowlands, the • Negev and the sea coast—to the land of the Canaanites and to Lebanon as far as the Euphrates River.[5] Lit the great river, the river Euphrates 8 See, I have set the land before you. Enter and take possession of the land the Lord swore to give to your fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and their descendants after them.’[6] Gn 15:18–21; 26:3; 35:12

Moses is preaching to the new generation of Israelites. He is reminding them of the past and preparing them to enter the Promised Land. They are on the east side of the Jordan River in sight of the Promised Land. He is reminding them that GOD had prepared the way for their forbearers to enter the Promised Land about forty (40) years sooner but their unbelief prevented them from entering. Now they will have another opportunity. Will history repeat itself or will their faith in GOD be strong enough for them to obtain what GOD had already provided for them? All their forbearers had to do was to be obedient to GOD and claim what GOD had promised them. But they did not because of being discouraged by a negative report.

Let’s read the account of the events as recorded in Numbers 13:17-33:

17 When Moses sent them to scout out the land of Canaan, he told them, “Go up this way to the • Negev, then go up into the hill country. 18 See what the land is like, and whether the people who live there are strong or weak, few or many. 19 Is the land they live in good[5] Nm 14:7; Dt 1:25 or bad? Are the cities they live in encampments or fortifications?[6] Dt 1:28; 3:5; 9:1; Jos 14:12 20 Is the land fertile or unproductive?[7] Neh 9:25,35; Isa 30:23; Ezk 34:14,20 Are there trees in it or not? Be courageous. Bring back some fruit from the land.” It was the season for the first ripe grapes.[8] Nm 13:23 21 So they went up and scouted out the land from the Wilderness of Zin[9] Southern border of the promised land as far as Rehob[10] Northern border of the promised land near the entrance to Hamath.[11] Or near Lebo-hamath 22 They went up through the Negev and came to Hebron, where Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai, the descendants of Anak,[12] Nm 13:28,33; Dt 1:28; 2:10–11,21 were living. Hebron was built seven years before Zoan[13] Ps 78:12; Isa 19:11; 30:4; Ezk 30:14 in Egypt. 23 When they came to the Valley of Eshcol,[14] Nm 32:9; Dt 1:24 they cut down a branch with a single cluster of grapes, which was carried on a pole by two men. [They]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. also [took]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. some pomegranates and figs.[15] Nm 20:5; Dt 8:8 24 That place was called the Valley of Eshcol[16] = cluster because of the cluster [of grapes]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the Israelites cut there. 25 At the end of 40 days[17] Nm 14:33–34; 32:13; Ps 95:10 they returned from scouting out the land.
Report about Canaan
26 The men went back to Moses, Aaron, and the entire Israelite community in the Wilderness of Paran at Kadesh. They brought back a report for them and the whole community, and they showed them the fruit of the land.[18] Nm 32:9; Dt 1:24–25 27 They reported to Moses: “We went into the land where you sent us. Indeed it is flowing with milk and honey,[19] Nm 14:8; 16:13–14; Ex 3:8; Lv 20:24 and here is some of its fruit. 28 However, the people living in the land are strong, and the cities are large and fortified.[20] Dt 1:28; 3:5; 9:1; Jos 14:12 We also saw the descendants of Anak[21] Nm 13:33; Dt 1:28; 2:10–11,21 there. 29 The Amalekites[22] Nm 14:25,43,45; Ex 17:8–16; Dt 25:17–19 are living in the land of the Negev; the Hittites, Jebusites, and Amorites live in the hill country; and the Canaanites live by the sea and along the Jordan.” 30 Then Caleb[23] Nm 14:6,24,30,38; 26:65 quieted the people in the presence of Moses and said, “We must go up and take possession of the land because we can certainly conquer it!” 31 But the men who had gone up with him responded, “We can’t go up against the people because they are stronger than we are!” 32 So they gave a negative report to the Israelites about the land they had scouted: “The land we passed through to explore is one that devours its inhabitants, and all the people we saw in it are men of great size. 33 We even saw the Nephilim[24] Possibly means “fallen ones”; traditionally, giants; Gn 6:4 there.” (The offspring of Anak were descended from the Nephilim.[25] Dt 2:10–11,20–21 ) “To ourselves we seemed like grasshoppers, and we must have seemed the same to them.”


The sins of disobedience and discouragement prevent many Christians and the Christian body (The Living Church) from entering into the Promised Land that GOD had provided for them here upon earth. Our ultimate destination is the Promised Land of Heaven but in my opinion we can experience the Promised Land here upon earth. To me the ultimate Promised Land upon earth is to find peace, harmony and fellowship with our LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST and to get to really know HIM. Then as we fellowship with HIM we see HIS handiwork and power manifested through our lives as we are obedient to HIM. To me it does not get any better. Have I arrived? NO! But such a relationship is possible for all Christians. But the flesh must be brought under the authority of our LORD. This is easy to say but hard to let go of the things of the world.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 1:26-28:

26 “But you were not willing to go up, rebelling against the command of the Lord your God. 27 You grumbled in your tents[12] Ps 106:25 and said, ‘The Lord brought us out of the land of Egypt to deliver us into the hands of the Amorites so they would destroy us, because He hated us. 28 Where can we go? Our brothers have discouraged us, saying: The people are larger and taller than we are; the cities are large, fortified to the heavens. We also saw the descendants of the Anakim there.’

Keep in mind Moses is reviewing with the new generation the things GOD had dealt with the former generation.

The Israelites were in the very heart of the miracles that GOD provided as they escaped the Egyptian bondage. However, even after being intimate with the handiwork and power of GOD their faith and trust in GOD quickly vanished. They grumbled and spoke against GOD. They saw huge obstacles and rather than reflecting on the fact that GOD had already proven that HE was sufficient, they relied upon their ability. HE is THE ONE WHO overcame all the obstacles they faced but the people lost confidence and trust in GOD.

Many Christians do the very same thing. Often we say “Well GOD did all those miracles in the Old Testament and JESUS did miracles in the New Testament but not today.” If you believe that, then that is why your walk with the LORD is powerless. Our GOD is the same and HE has not changed though all the ages. HE is still in the business of performing miracles and displaying wonder working power. But HE is not in the business of entertaining us or doing tricks.

We must keep in mind that JESUS said HE always does and says what the FATHER tells HIM. For us to know and see what the FATHER and JESUS are doing, we must have an intimate loving relationship with THEM. It is no longer us but CHRIST living through us. It is HIS power.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 1:29-33:

29 “So I said to you: Don’t be terrified or afraid of them! 30 The Lord your God who goes before you will fight for you, just as you saw Him do for you in Egypt. 31 And you saw in the wilderness how the Lord your God carried you as a man carries his son all along the way you traveled until you reached this place. 32 But in spite of this you did not trust the Lord your God, 33 who went before you on the journey to seek out a place for you to camp. He went in the fire by night and in the cloud by day to guide you on the road you were to travel.

Moses continues his sermon, reminding the people of GOD’S care for them. We have the Bible which is our reminder of GOD’S care and provisions for HIS children. HIS care and provisions are just as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. GOD does not and has not changed. HE preserved HIS Word in the Bible so all Christians through all the ages will know of HIS power and care. HE says believe it. I AM the same today as yesterday!
Keep in mind this is not us testing GOD but trusting in GOD that all things are possible as HE directs.

Even today GOD goes ahead of us showing the way and preparing the way. Our part is to be obedient. Natural obedience comes from our relationship with our LORD. First, seek to know HIM and fellowship with HIM and obedience will follow. We will then learn and see that HIS yoke is easy.

When we try to muster up obedience on our own, obedience is hard and difficult. Stop trying on your own. Seek the relationship by asking the LORD to show you what you need to do for you to have the best possible relationship with HIM. Get to know HIM. We cannot be obedient to someone we do not know and trust. We must have unwavering confidence in the ONE WHO leads us. Neither can we serve GOD riding on someone else’s faith or relationship.

Let’s read Deuteronomy 1:42-46:

42 “But the Lord said to me, ‘Tell them: Don’t go up and fight, for I am not with you to keep you from being defeated by your enemies.’ 43 So I spoke to you, but you didn’t listen. You rebelled against the Lord’s command and defiantly went up into the hill country. 44 Then the Amorites who lived there came out against you and chased you like a swarm of bees. They routed you from Seir as far as Hormah. 45 When you returned, you wept before the Lord, but He didn’t listen to your requests or pay attention to you. 46 For this reason you stayed in Kadesh as long as you did.[17] Lit Kadesh for many days, according to the days you stayed

Still keep in mind Moses is still reflecting on the time when this new generation’s forefathers were leaving Egypt. The Israelites had refused to go into the Promised Land because of giants in the land.

Then Israelites had second thoughts and decided that they would be obedient and go fight. But GOD told Moses to tell them not to go now because they had missed their opportunity. HE would not help then and they would be defeated. That is exactly what happened.

GOD provides the opportunity and we need to be so trusting and confident in GOD that we respond as HE gives us the opportunity.

I know there have been times that the LORD has prompted me to say or do something and I hesitated or wanted to think about it a little longer. When I tried to recapture the moment or opportunity, I found it very difficult, awkward or impossible to recapture. There was an opening for a split second and the door closed. It breaks my heart when I am not obedient. Sometimes HE allows us to stump our toe to get our attention. Then later HE gives us another opportunity. Guess what? We usually respond!

When we are disobedient the LORD needs to let us wander in the wilderness, so-to-speak, for us to get our priorities in order. In the wilderness HE will equip us and draw us into a closer relationship with HIM, if we let HIM. HE prepares us so the next time HE gives us an assignment, we will be obedient.

Sin is an obstacle and barrier in serving our LORD. We must confess our sins, repent and HE will cleanse and restore us. Disobedience and discouragement are serious barriers as we journey with our LORD. Ask HIM to search your heart and reveal anything that prevents you from serving HIM completely.