Psalm 50

Why does God request sacrifices from his people? That seems to be the unspoken question that God seeks to answer through the psalmist. God doesn't need food. He doesn't want an animal killed so that he can enjoy the bloodletting. God asks for his people to sacrifice so that he can view the heart. Is the heart of the one giving filled with joy at the opportunity to give? Are the words spoken in the heart "thank you"? The sacrifice may not be a reflection of the heart of the worshipper, but in that sacrifice God sees the depths of the person. Then he can judge them; the righteous for salvation and the wicked for judgment.
It took me about 2 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Deuteronomy 31-34

As Moses is pronouncing his final blessing on the nation of Israel his mind goes back 40 years to his last day as a shepherd of sheep.  What sort of details does he recall when he was an 80 year old wanderer, out with his flock?   What details does he recall from the bush.  Did he still feel the heat?  Was the quiver still in his stomach as he remember the first time God called out his name?  Was he looking forward to his death?  Did he understand that he would see God in the completeness of his glory?  Did he understand that he would meet The Prophet who would walk in the land where Moses was not allowed to walk?  How many times in his life did his mind go back to that bush?

It took me 17 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 49

All of us sin. God made it clear in his very first command to the ones he loves; if you disobey me you will die. But the psalmist points out, in verses 7-9, that our deaths do not atone for our sins; death is the terrible consequence of our sinful choice. Adam and Eve both died. Yet if their only failing was to take and eat of the fruit their deaths did not clear their name of that disobedience. It cost more than a sinner's life to redeem a sinner. This psalm aches for a great act of grace; grace that God promises in verse 15. It is only through God's action that we can have any hope of redemption.
It took me about 2 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Deuteronomy 27-30

Chapter 27-29 are filled with the blessings God promised his people Israel as the fruit of the obedience with his covenant.  It also expands on the details of the curses that are inherent when that covenant is violated.  While the blessings that God describes are very favorable their details are general.  In contrast God goes into great details when he talks about the curses that will befall Israel if they reject him.  The terror of those curses are disgusting in their vivid details, especially when he explains how desperate the people will respond to the sieges.  Chapter 30 offers a light of hope for the destruction that is described in the curses of the preceding chapters.  God explains that the people will humble themselves in their punishment and seek to return to God’s side again.  And God will be there waiting; anxious for their return.  Like the family of a soldier returning from the battle, or a prisoner being restored to his freedom. 

Though the passage is addressed to Israel I believe this section also speaks to all people today about the nature of our God.  He is always ready and willing to receive people back into his family.  Have we never known God?  He is ready.  Did we grow up in the faith and then turn away?  He wants us back.  Have we sinned and rejected his law as a believer?  He will forgive us.  The death of Jesus on the cross paid the penalty throughout eternity, so that we could spend eternity with our God and creator.

It took me 20 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 48

How big is God? That really isn't a valid question because God's nature defies our ability to comprehend in any way, shape, or form. So the writter of this psalm pondered another question in verse 10: how big is God's name? The psalmist mind took to imaging such a concept and saw it stretched out over all the earth. But then he added another measure to the situation; how many praises are offered to God? Our words cannot be measured to height, width, length, of depth. But a word and be measured the decible and duration. I can say with confidence that there are few locations around the globe where an hour long, noon-time praise of God is absent. Just like the praises from God's people know no end, so is God's name.
It took me almost 2 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Psalm 47

The strength of a nation is often measured in the size of its milatary. The number of ships, tanks, planes, and rockets determine the influence of a modern country. It is my understanding that ancient kingdoms determined their strength in much the same way. The number of soldiers would have been key, but of equal or greater measure would be how many fighters a king could outfit with armor and weaponry. When the psalmist sought to describe the power of the LORD he borrowed this idea. There was no need to count the number of divisions that were at God's command; every shield in every hand was equiped to serve God the creator. There is no king like our King.
It took me about 1 minute to read this psalm.
Stuart

Deuteronomy 23-26

In chapter 26 Moses teaches the people a testamony that they are to confess before the LORD every time they bring up the tithe. In verses 5 through 15 the one making the offering is called to acknowledge two facts:
What God has done in the past to bring about this harvest. Explaining how God has kept his part of the covenant.
What the individual has done in response to God's provisions. How he has acted to keep his part of the covenant.
I suppose it would not be a bad idea for Christians to make the same declarations when offering our gifts, and lives, to God. As a way to keep us in line with all of God's plans. 
It took me about 14 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 46

In psalms 2 the question was asked; "why do the nations rage . . . against the LORD..?" In this psalm God states that the nations will rage, but not from an internal rebellion. The rage discussed in psalm 46 will find the nations the recipients of God's rage rather than the distributors of human anger. So now God says that he will shake the nations to show them that he is mighty and powerfu. The psalmist calls him a shelter. God does all these thing to display his power to all people.
It took me about 2 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 45

Our history books are filled with lists of people who made names for themselves. Some were great leaders while others were terrible dictators. Many are recognized for the accomplishments that benefitted their contemporaries as well as their descendants. Still other evoke terror in the hearts of those they asailed and are referenced with contempt in following generations. The author of this psalm was not concerned that his name was known. God has ensured that his words have been preserved while his name disappeared. I believe God honored him in this way because of the desire he penned in the last veres; that the LORD's name would be praised forever. We can work to honor ourselves and hope that we are remembered past our children's generation. Or we can seek to honor God and rest in confidence that he will be remembered for thousands of generations.
It took me about 3 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Deuteronomy 20-22

The beginning of chapter 20 speaks of Israel going to war against an enemy nation.  When the soldiers of faith look upon the enemy and see horses, chariots, and multitudes of fighters they are not to lose heart because it is not their numbers or advanced weaponry that would win the battle.  Scripture bears witness to the truth of these instructions throughout their history.  They are battle instructions equally as true for the Christian today.  But our battles are “not against flesh and blood” (Ephesians 6:12) but against a spiritual army.  And there are many days when we may observe the actions of our enemy and determine that the battle is already lost.  I will admit that there have been many days when I look at the culture in which I live and declare a defeat in one area or another.  That is not the attitude to hold when living in this life.  We may say with confidence that the war was won at Calvary and still question whether that defeated army, really it is a terrorist group, can be beaten in a post-war skirmish.  To win the battle we must take the boldness of the instructions that Moses gave and stand firm.  To surrender in the spiritual war means to conform.  So if I stand true against the affronts of the culture the battle is won.  Every time my society tells me to conform and I refuse by holding fast to God’s grace the battle is won.  The battle ground may never change during our lifetime, but no one can take us from the high ground of God’s grace, forgiveness and strength.

It took me about 12 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 44

This song presents the glory of God and his discipline of Israel. In verse 22 the psalmist denotes the burden of oppression that God has put on his people. It was this verse that God useds to showed Paul that difficulties of this life have always been with God's people. In Romans 8:36 Paul quotes Psalm 44:22 and then makes the connection that our circumstances do not dictate our relationship with God. God's love and our faith make up the foundation of our confidence in God. Just as it did when this psalm was first sung. We see that in verses 23-26 as the psalmist calls out to God for his deliverance.
It took me about 3 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Deuteronomy 17-19

Abomination – “something worthy of or causing disgust or hatred” 

We don’t like to talk about abominations because it is really strong language.  I remember being taught not to hate anybody.  But there are actions in people’s lives that God calls abominations.  In chapter 18 verses 10 and 11 Moses lists some of the actions that are abominations; actions that God deems worthy of disgust.  All of these have to do with the rejection of God’s sovereignty and placing something in his place.  God points out that it was because of the persistence in practicing these abominations that God was removing the inhabitants of the land of Canaan.  I have heard many Christians expressing that the Biblical stance on homosexuality as an abomination, but I don’t recall anybody condemning people who shape their lives around astrology with the save passion.  God does not hold only one or two actions and attitudes in disgust and hatred; there are many actions that sinful people commit that cause God anguish.  Those attitudes that remove God from his rightful position of ultimate ruler of our life should be avoided by those who believe.

It took me about 12 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 43

Many times throughout scripture God's people identify God's revelation as light and truth. In verse 3 of this psalm the writer makes that same connection. He recognizes that is God's revelation that will bring us into the very presence of God. With that knowledge we can move forward in hope for what God will do and is doing with us.
It only took me a minute to read this psalm.
Stuart

Deuteronomy 14-16

What was the purpose of the tithe?  Moses discussed the tithe in 14:22-29 and it seems to provide many functions.  Part of it was used to create a celebration of the worshiper with God.  A way to recognize what God had provided for the one making the offering.  It was a party for all those who a toiled at their work which God had increased and given a harvest.  It was also an opportunity to invite the Levites, the poor, the widows, and the orphans to join in the celebration of what God had provided for the worshiper.  The tithe offered every third year was to be set aside in local storage to care for the needs of the Levites, the poor, the widows, and the orphans.  So from Moses’ discussion what is the tithe suppose to teach us?  I don’t believe it was intended to be a rigid structure to be used as a test of faith.  It was to be a freewill offering that was not laid on the altar and burned, but shared with many in a celebration of the bounty that God provides to his people.  Maybe in today’s culture the best way to offer a tithe to God might be to buy a cake and find a lonely widow in the congregation and celebrate a birthday (or even an un-birthday) with she and her friends.  As Tony Compolo entitled one book; “This Kingdom of God is a Party.”

It took me about 11 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Deuteronomy 11-13

Moses passes on a very important set of instructions in 11:18. They were to put the words of God's in their minds; in other words memorize scripture. The Christian circles with which I intersect seldom discuss to benefits or discipline of scripture memorization. And I know that it is NOT something that just happens or is easy to implement in our life. But we know that Jesus considered it important, as did Paul. Both of these men recited numerous passages from memory. (Jesus did have a human brain with which he had to function while in the flesh.) I'm sure that they both enjoyed reading from the scrolls, but they had been trained as Moses instructed Israel and had hidden God's word in their inner most thoughts. That what we should do as well.
It took me about 15 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 42

Life can be difficult.  There is probably no one who has lived a life free from physical and emotional pain. It is those hard times in life when we are emotionally drug down. When the going gets tough almost all of us face dispair. This psalm says that our faith in God provides a counter-measure for those times when life is so hard. When we look around and see gloom and doom we can rest assured that God will give us a hope. Does that mean he will take away the pain? Not necessarily. Does it mean he will always restore our physical ailments? No. Will he keep us from facing death? Not likely. What it does mean is that if we depend on him he will carry us through the unknown turmoil that we will face. And he will grant us the privledged of glorifying him through our struggles.
It took me only a couple of minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Deuteronomy 8-10

In chapter 10 verses 18 Moses declared that God loves the sojourner; those who were not born of the covenant people were among the people those who would receive favor from God. Why would God give such attention to those people whom he did not choose from Abraham's line! Perhaps it is because God has always been seeking people who would forsake the riches of this world and hold fast to the true wealth of faith is found only in serving God.
It took me about 15 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 41

Jesus told his disciples to treat other people as they wished to be treated (Matt. 7:12) and to love their neighbors as they love themselves (Matt. 22:39).  David said that God's attention, and subsequent deliverence, was on those who kept his attention of the weak. The ESV uses the word "poor". Regardless of which word may offer the best translation I believe God wants his people not to turn away from those who are the most vulnerable in our society.
It took me about 1 minute to read this psalm.
Stuart

Deuteronomy 5-7

In chapter 5 verses 23-27 Moses reminds the people of their reaction to God's audible voice when he spoke the 10 commandments while they were camped in Horeb. The people were terrified. Moses surely understood their fear as he recalled his first encounter with God's voice at the burning bush. The reaction of the people showed that the recognized God's greatness. They were not overwhelmed with curiosity. Their only focus was to stay away from God for they saw his power on display. There have been times where the display of power in God's creation put me in awe of his greatness. But I think that I have only a small grasp of what those Israelites experienced that day. It was truely a day they would never forget.
It took me about 12 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 40

I've never had much direct contact with sheep, but I understand that they can get themselves in situations where all they can do is start bleeting and crying out. I wonder if there was a day that young David heard the fearful call of a sheep over a hill? When he crossed the rise he saw one of his flock up to him belly in a bog; worn out from the struggle crying out in hope that his shepherd would save him. David might have slipped off his sandals and waded into the muck to retrieve the wayward animal. He would have to raise him high and carry him until they reach solid footing. Then setting the his sheep on the rocky soil he would retrieve is footwear and they would rejoin the rest of the flock. I see that story in the first 3 verses of this psalm and the lesson that young shepherd learned in the last 2.
It took me about 4 minutes to read this song of David.
Stuart

Deuteronomy 1-4

In Deuteronomy 1:30-31 God compares himself to a father carrying his son. I remember a trip to the Grand Canyon a number of years ago. Our traveling group decided we would venture into the depths of the canyon. After an exhausting trip down on 2 and a half miles of winding trail we chose to retreat to the canyon rim. The trip up was much more strenuous then the walk down. Joining us on the trek up was another group; I believe they were German tourist. In that group was a father and his pre-teen son. With more than a mile of trail to go the son was exhausted. There was no way he could complete the hike out of the canyon on his own. So he climbed onto his father's back and Dad began the trip carrying the weight of his son to the canyon rim. I don't know if that is exactly the picture God wanted to get across to Israel, but I think it is pretty close.
It took me about 22 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 39

"...make me know ...... the measure of my days." Would knowing when we will die be a gift or a curse? David saw something profitable in that knowledge. I think he realized that to live with our mortality clearly in focus would help us keep the situations of this life in their proper priority. How angrily should we respond to the wicked? David said that he couldn't hold back his words, but the question I have is this; what type of words did he use? Did he speak in anger and attempt to reduce the wicked person into a mass of hatred? Did he pile insults on top of acqusations? What ever he said he knew it was not what God had intended for David. Such sharpe toungues is not why God gifted us to speak. I know that I need to learn when God is moving me to speak as well as the times he wants me to wait and be silent before him. God alone is the only ruler and right judge.
It took me about 3 minutes to reads this psalm; though it could also be a dirge.
Stuart

Galatians 4-6

Paul made a very startling statement to the believers throughout Galatia in 4:28.  He called those believers “children of promise.”  I think it is safe to say that is how God looks at all 21^st century believers as well.  But to what promise is he referring?  In the context it is easy to see; the promise made to Abraham.  How long ago was that?  Well over 3,000 years.  I think back in history and I can think of some events that provided me with a promise.  Here in the United States a group of political men made a promise in 1787 that I could speak my mind freely.  They made few other promises that have had a significant impact on my live.  But 222 years nothing compared to 3,000 years.  And that is when God told someone about the promise.  Paul wrote in Ephesians 1:4 that God had chosen us before he even created the world.  I’m not even going to take a guess as to how long ago THAT was.  But I take that to mean that God had the promise in mind before he created ANYTHING.  God must think that we are really special that he would plan something long before he even began to act on it.

It took me about 13 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 38

I wonder what led David to view his life from God's perspective. He takes the first 8 verses to describe the corruption of his position before God. When confronted by those who would judge him David waited for God's word; since that is the final authority. I wonder if this is a song written during the days before David fled from Saul? Those days when he was a rising star in Israel with admirers and enemies. Maybe he went up to the temple with a sacrifice (as the introduction implies) and realized how much he needed God's deliverance. David's final thoughts were focused on his need for God's closeness.
It took me about 4 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Galatians 1-3

In chapter 1 verses 11 – 14 Paul recounts a situation in which Peter the apostle was not acting in accord with the message of grace that he had helped support some time earlier.  Peter’s actions showed a distinction of Christians of Jewish background and those who believed yet were not born under the Law.  In front of a large group Paul confronted Peter regarding his actions; his wrong actions.  I wonder what went through Peter’s mind.  What words of argument was he preparing?  Did Peter’s anger flare?  I wonder if the former fisherman ALMOST began to talk like a fisherman again?  I have in mind that Peter quickly quieted any thoughts and really listened to Paul’s words.  I don’t see him reacting, but rather pondering what was said.  Then to the astonishment of the Jewish believers and the joy of the Gentile believers Peter agreed.  He might have gotten up and hugged Paul.  He might have thanked him out loud for his words of truth or maybe asked Paul to pray with him as he repented of his sinful attitude.  But I suspect that sometime during the meal Peter put aside his pride and fear, and joined a table of Gentile Christians, eating from their plates.  I imagine that the night of tears after denying Jesus was one memory that Peter never could wipe from his mind.  I wonder if his meal with Paul that day was another event permanently etched in Peter’s character.

It took me about 11 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 37

To the Jews of David's day possessing a piece of the Promised Land was the best that could be provided. There was an abundance of everything because God had prepared a country of beauty and abundant resources. As David looks b ack on his life (vs 25) five times in the psalm he sings about those who will inherit the land. In verses 9, 11, 22, 29, and 34 David mentions the inheritence. The characterics of those whom God will bless with an inheritence are: waiting on the LORD, meekness, living in God's blessings, and the righteous. In verse 34 he personalizes these traits and directs the listener to pursue God. All of these traits have been trademarks in the kings life and God had indeed given David his heart's desires (vs 4), always acting in David's favor (vss 5-6). Why wouldn't David encourage others to follow in his steps. God had carried David from the sheepfold to the king's house.
It took me about 5 minutes to read what David wrote.
Stuart

Numbers 34-36

In chapter 34 verses 19-28 God listed the leaders of each tribe of Israel who would oversee the partitioning of the land of Canaan.  They were led by the high priest and Moses replacement.  These leaders were not the children of the leaders mentioned in Number 1 who oversaw the first census of Israel.  God selected them for this task.  He could have had Joshua and Eleazar handle all of the lottery for the inheritance, but I think that God has always been about cooperation among his people.  This was not rule by committee, but it was participatory leadership.  God had already laid down the directives, and he selected 12 men to work together in ensuring the allotment of the land was carried out according to God’s plans.  It was a system of checks and balances to provide a human element of support that God’s plans were being enforced.  At least that’s how it looks to me.

It took me about 13 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 36

As I read verses 5 - 10 there was a song that kept running through ny head. This is where the song writer got the words; from another song writer who focused on the power of God's love. That love is unmeasurable just as the faithfulness, righteousness, and justice of God. Know that God's attributes are beyond human understanding is it surprising that David turns his life over to the hands of God's eternal judgment. There is no one who can compare to God in what he can do.
It took me just a couple minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Numbers 31-33

God spoke to Moses about Israel’s plans once they entered the Promised Land; drive out those who currently inhabit the land.  They were sinful people and God had chosen to displace them with the people of covenant.  In 33:52 God also specifies that Israel should destroy every last visible presence of those former inhabitants; their carved stones, metal idols, and local places of idolatry.    Because Israel was not to worship the way those sinful people worship.  God has the same plans for the lives of Christians.  It is not a command to kill people and destroy idol worship in those who surround us, but to get rid of the old forms of worship that we had in our lives.  I see the invasion of God’s holy army into Canaan as a parable of what he wants to do inside the life of every Christian.  Those sacred stones around which we have build our life; destroyed.  Those images that defined who we were; removed from sight.  Those personal expressions of worship that are not found in scripture; demolished.   Even as I grow in Christ I become confronted with vestiges of my life before I surrendered to Christ.   As I uncover them I ask, “What do I do with these, Lord?”  He makes the answer clear: Destroy, remove, demolish.  Even though that process can hurt and leave ugly scars that’s what he wants me to do.  Because there is only room for one God in the universe and in my life.

It took me about 15 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 35

I have never faced a lion when there was not a secure fence between us. I have never heard the roar of a big cat while walking through the woods. So I never had to ask myself how close that predator might be to me. David knew the fear that comes from the nearness of a lion on the prowl. He had learned to defend his flock from those lurking big cats that stalked his sheep when wild game was scarce. So when he calls malicious men "lions" we can be sure he isn't refering to a benevolent men's group. David had learned the tricks of those silent stalkers. It was probably similar traits that he saw is those who slandered his the led David to mention these people to God. David would not return curse for curse. When he was attacked he returned a blessing. A lesson that I am sure God is developing in my life.
It took me about 5 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Numbers 28-30

In chapter 28 God details the sacrifices that Israel is to offer on a regular basis. The daily, weekly, monthly, and festival sacrifices. In almost all of these descriptions the phrase "..a pleasing aroma to the LORD..." Is included in the description. I've heard that the burning of animals is not a pleasant odor to most people. The smell of the flesh as it is burnt is foul. So I wonder if the aroma that God detects is found in the meat or in the attitudes of those making the sacrifices? Could it be that it is always our attitude that God values the most?
It took me about 15 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 34

David talks about the greatness of God in this psalm. He also gives the secret to having God answer prayers; seek his out. The idea is not a casual overview but an indepth searching for God's presence. Much like a treasure hunter will invest time, effort, and money in order to find the object of his passion. That is how David sought the God od Israel. That is the example laid out for us. Putting all of our heart into the pursuit of God's heart is what we need to do. In that search we will find the wonder of God.
It took me about 2 minutes to read this psalm
Stuart

Psalm 33

The second part of verse 5 says a mouthful; "...the earth is full of the steadfast love of the LORD." When we consider that all that we have originated from God's creation of the earth. That which we eat is an expression of God's love. The shelters in which we dwell are made of earth stuff. Quite literally God's love is a shelter over us. Water; streams of passion for our survival. Clothing; a covering of concern from God's hand. Everything comes from God. Each item that we use everyday is an overflow from God's gracious nature.
It took me about 2 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Numbers 25-27

Phinehas was a priest who was very concerned that the Name of the LORD not be made worthless by anyone in Israel.  He was one of the witness who saw Zimri, a Simeonite, display how little regard he had for the God who had cared for him in the wilderness.  Zimri was more concerned with satisfying his sexual passions then following God’s Law.  Before Phinehas dispatched his spear into Zimri God acted in judgment on those who took after the Baal of Peor.  God ordered their execution and through the sword of the righteous in Israel 24,000 were struck down.  There were other leaders who had killed rebels throughout the camp of Israel, so why was Phinehas singled out?  Maybe the actions of Phinehas stood out because he acted after everyone else had thought the problem was resolved.  Maybe it was because Phinehas acted swiftly against this public display of sin by a leader within Israel.  Maybe it was because Phinehas understood the depths of the insult to God.

It took me about 12 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 32

What does God do with the sins comitted by those who receive his grace? David begins this psalm with an explanation od the operation of God's garce. The sins are forgiven. The humbled heart before God receives more than mercy it receives the forgivness of God. That forgiveness covers the sins so that from God's perspective they are no longer visible. Since the sins are invisible then there is no accounting of them. The "ledger" is empty; there's nothing on record. All this happens because the heart of the penetant sinner is not trying to pull anything over on God. That soul has humbled themselves and is resting on their faith in God's willingness and ability to forgive sins. The faithful will not be disapointed.
It took me about 2 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Numbers 22-24

How much am I like Balak? I make up my mind as to what I need and how I want to see events unfold. Then I go looking for someone to agree with me and show me God's affirmation as well. Even those of us in the church follow Balak's path too often. I know that I need to slow down and seek out God before I finalize my choices. I need to listen for the voice of God before he speaks through a donkey. God is a giver of blessings for those who please him. And it is our faith and dependance that develops us into people who please God.
It took me about 10 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 31

I don't recall ever making the connection that the words of verse 5 were spoken by Jesus on the cross.(Luke 23:46) I am reminded how Jesus sought protection in scripture during his tempation recorded in Matthew 4. And it is equally true that it was scripture that carried him through the last few hours of suffering on the cross. In his agony he cried out David's words of anguish from the begining of psalm 22. Jesus also spoke the words of verse 5 from psalm 31 as well. So Jesus gives us a solid example of how to prepare for the suffering that we will face as this physcal life progresses. We must hide scripture in our hearts.  From this treasury we will reap a harvest of righteous living. 
It took me nearly 4 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Numbers 18-21

As Israel skirted the land of Edom a voice of complaining rose up in the camp.  Their impatience was getting the best of them.  That is an odd idea since the nation had spent most of 40 years in the wilderness why were they so anxious as to complain about the leader whom God had chosen?  They didn’t have the amount of water that they wanted, and they still ate manna every day.  I wonder if there were some of the remaining complainers who had left Egypt who started the ruckus?  Maybe they were in a hurry because they were thinking that since they had survived this long they might cheat God and get into the promised land.  But their complaints led God to act; sending poisonous serpents to infest the camp.  I wonder if they serpents only bit people who were complaining?

It took me almost 20 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Numbers 15-17

The first 21 verses of chapter 15 details the offerings that are to accompany the animal sacrifices made to the LORD.  In verses 13-16 God explains that this practice is the same for every member of Israel and anyone outside of Israel who seeks the God of Israel.  This is a shadow of the way in which the church is to interact with the culture surrounding it.  Israel was not to adopt the practices of the heathen people they encountered, and the church is to follow the same practice.  But if someone sought to follow God under the Law then they were to act in accordance with the Law.  I know that there have been times when I allowed my cultural preferences to dictate right and wrong my belief structure.  That is exactly what this passage encourages us to avoid.  I need to keep my focus on God’s work, on God’s standard, and on God’s word.  Any deviation from that will not be acceptable in the eyes of my Lord and Savior.

It took me about 16 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 30

The introduction to this psalm indicates that David wrote it to be sung at the dedication of the temple. We know that God refused to give David the privelege of building the temple. But David did make most of the preperations for its construction and operation. This psalm indicates that David was the creative force behind the dedication celebration over which Solomon presided. I wonder if David taught his son and the Levite singers the words of this song? This song is an indication of the faith by which David lived. He was so confident in God's word of a son to rule after him and build the temple that David went all out in his preperation. Even though he knew that his physical eyes would never see the completed work he acted. His acts in faith became the foundation upon which generations of his children would worship God Almighty. That is the fruit of seeking God with all of your heart.
It took me about 1 minute to read this psalm.
Stuart

Numbers 11-14

Numbers 11 addresses two times that Israel whined to God. Their second complaint in this passage was about the food they had to eat. Their first complaint was not specified. They didn't or could identify what their problem was but they knew they didn't like it. When I was young there were times that I whined for no reason. My parents would respond with the phrase; "I'll give you something to cry about." It was not an idle threat. God doesn't respond idlely to those who refuse to receive what he provides. God became angry. That anger overflowed and addressed those people who were complaining the most. What lesson does that offer us?
It took me about 20 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 29

Each of us has been given a distinctive voice. Some of our voices can follow the melody notes in a song. Other voices produce the harmony notes. There are still other voices that are best when they are silent during a song. I've been told that my voice sounds similar to my dad and brothers voices. But those four voices were once blended in four parts of a barbershop quartet; each voice singing a different part. There may voices that call many to battle. But no one's voice can compare to God's voice. David points out that God's voice is powerful. His voice sounds like thunder and includes the flashes of lightening. But it also powerful enough to bring forth the fawn in the quiet of the forest. His is a voice that will never be matched on this earth.
It took me almost 2 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Numbers 8-10

The nomad slaves of Israel broke camp from in front of mount Sinai on the 20th day of the second month of their second year. They had been there for less than 10 months, but they had lived through some amazing events in that short time. The voice of God, Moses on the mountain, their rebellious calf idol, the donation for the tabernacle, the building and setting up the tabernacle, the annointing of the priests, and the memorial Passover meal. And God continued to provide for them. Six out of every seven days there was manna for them to gather. Without fail. And the cloud that had guided them out of Egypt continued to watch over them. God had taught them about sin, and the consequences of embracing sin. He also explained to Israel to freedom and forgiveness available through the sacrifices. Through all of this God still sought to instill in them their need to live by faith in him. Their God was not like the gods of Egypt or the idols of the nations they would encounter. He was the only God who had intentionally selected Israel as his people, and he would be with them wherever they went. On the day they left Sinia it was God's presence that led them on this journey to fulfill a promise.
It took me about 12 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 28

David looked at the people around him and noticed something similar to what we see today; evil people living beside the righteous. He had neighbors or family members who did not honor God, reapect their parents, or maybe even believe the account of the exodus. Therefore, they took advantage of the righteous after sweet talking them into exposing their vulnerabilities. David was concerned that his close proimity to these evil people would draw him into their habits. David's prayer was that he would be kept from their evil habits and stay close to God.
It took me about 2 minutes to read this song of David.
Stuart

Numbers 4-7

In chapter 4 God gave Moses the instructions for the Levites who had the privilege of carrying the most holy articles from the tabernacle.  The priests were to cover the articles to protect them from the elements and hide them from the sight of the people.  Even the Levites who were carrying them were not allowed to look on them.  I think that for me that would have been a tremendous temptation.  I imagine a Kohathite who was assigned to carry the ark walking up to this skin covered mound with two golden poles sticking out from each end.  The weight would have been manageable, but was the curiosity difficult to restrain?  Was it a constant fight not to peek inside the skins as they walked down the road?  Did they train themselves to look away if the wind caught the skin just right?  Maybe their reverence for their Savior and Redeemer made the task of carrying the ark a joy and the temptation to look at the hidden beauty passed quickly.  Maybe it was fear that deflected their curiosity.  It would take a great deal of faith to carry those articles of the tabernacle and trust that God to provide physical safety in such close proximity to the holiest object on earth. 

It took me about 18 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Numbers 1-3

The LORD brought Israel out of Egypt in an intentional act of mercy and grace. The congregation moved about with little order or purpose. Now God was prepared to begin the lessons of discipline that the people would need to form God's nation. God groups the people according to family and gives the a location. The reference point is God's place of worship. The same refernece point exist today. Though we may not like to submit to God's plan there is an order in the church as well. I'm not talking about a human hierachy, but rather an environment of order and purpose. Congregations shouldn't gather just to be together; there is a purpose to share with each other. We are to ensure that no one has a physical, emotional, or spiritual need. The the weak are protected, and the young are instructed.
It took me about 16 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 27

The begining and end of this psalm presents a message about God and the words in between fill out the truth presented. David began his song with words that recognize who God is; light, salvation, and stronghold. In this life these 3 represent mechanisms that remove fear. That is why David twice declare his absence of fear. In the God of Israel the anxieties from darkness, being lost, and vulnerability are all taken away. David ends his song with one wise instruction for those who have allowed God to take away their fears; wait on the LORD.
It took me about 3 minutes to read through this psalm.
Stuart

Hebrews 11-13

Painful discipline.  I know that I often limit the application of discipline to times when I have been disobedient.  At those times I expect God to step into my life and offer a strong and painful rebuke.  But that is only half of the story.  I remember teaching my niece how to use a hand saw.  Because she didn’t hold the handle tight enough she developed a blister on her hand.  It was painful but not the result of disobedience.  It was the natural result of learning, growing, expanding her abilities.  That is the other side of painful discipline.  That is what the Hebrew writer addresses in 12:11.  The result of accepting, even welcoming, painful discipline is a life displaying the righteousness of Jesus.  Why does it have to be painful?  I think that I remember pain better than I remember ease.  I can recall much of the events of 36 hours that I endured a nerve pinch in my neck.  I got very little sleep, attended over 8 hours of meetings, and an plane flight from Boston through Philadelphia before landing in Indianapolis.  God taught me that he is able to keep my mind on task even when the limitations of this physical body are most noticeable.  I can remember many painful moments in my life, and out of each of those I have learned valuable lessons; most of which are focused on self-discipline.  It’s like God planned these lessons especially for me.

It took me about 15 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 26

David found a level place before the LORD. There he took his stand. But he wasn't a silent watchtower; he spoke about God. From this psalm David says that he speaks of God's justice, and his faithfulness to those who are faithful to him. David was prepared to address the crowds. It didn't matter if the crowd desired David's words of praise or not he was ready to speak about the God who is actively working in the lives of his people. The people were gathered to worship God, they should hear of his works. There were surely some who didn't want to hear David's words, just as there were people who who didn't want to hear Jesus speak.
It took me about 3 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Hebrews 7-10

In 10:32-34 the writer talks about the suffering of the church; dividing the believers into two groups.  Those being “publicly exposed to reproach and affliction” and those who partner with the others so treated.  This was expressed in compassion toward those who directly received the persecution and not being focused on the things that do not last.  For many years I was ignorant to those believers who were suffering persecution.  Slowing I became aware of their plight, and began to pray for them.  My prayers focused on relief from the struggle.  Then I met some believers who live with joy in the shadows because of the oppression they face.  I saw their riches and my poverty.  Recently I heard how persecution has come to Christians in the United States.  Specifically in California, where homosexual activists are targeting believers for holding views contrary to what they want.  There have been threats, and vandalism.  Now I pray that the believers will continue to speak God’s truth with boldness, love, and compassion.  I need to know what I must do to partner with those believers nearby and far away.  The Hebrew writer encourages us to live our faith in full view of the world.  The intent is not to condemn others but to allow them the chance to see the joy in a life being lived for Jesus.

It took me about 18 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 25

In verse 11 David pleads for the pardon of his sins. A task that he recognizes is great because his sins (like mine) are very great in God's sight. But he begins the request with a recognition of God's promises. Since the fall of man God has been forgiving sin and promising to forgive more and more. It is because of these promises that David prays with confidence. God has made a promise and so to show honor to his name he will keep that promise. God will pour his heart and soul into flesh in order to fulfill his promise. David didn't fully understand HOW God would keep his promise. All he knew, by faith, was that God Would keep his promise.
It took me about 3 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Hebrews 4-6

There seems to be an unusual transition in thought between Hebrews 4:11 and 12.  I had not noticed it before, and maybe it is caused by my perspective.  The Hebrew writing spent time talking about the rest that God has promised.  A rest that was not fulfilled when Israel entered the Promised Land, but a rest that was still being offered in the first century after Christ, and is still available today.  It is a Sabbath of God’s eternal provision.  A Sabbath that every Christian has set before them.  A Sabbath in which we perpetually dwell.  Then there is a jump into the vitality and power of the Word of God.  The Word is living and is at work in the lives of the faithful to bring about the change of heart that God is pursing in us.  But I don’t see the connection between the two thoughts.  Why does the writer re-enforce the discussion about God’s promised rest with the truth that God’s Word is actively at work in our lives? 

Maybe the Word being addressed is Jesus, our great high priest? 

It took me about 8 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 24

"Who is this King of Glory?" That is the question that David asked twice in this psalm. And it is a question that we need to answer for ourselves. If we don't have a strong grasp of the nature and position of the King of Glory then there is no way we will depend upon him in the times of struggle. David explains that he witnessed God's nature most clearly when he was on the battle field. It was there in the many struggles for life that David saw God work his salvation in David's life. We have I seen God work his salvation? Where have you seen God do his work?
It took me just over 1 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart