Borrowed from Matthew 24:15-20 (with a few explanations)
. MT 24:15 "So when you see standing in the holy place `the abomination that causes desolation,' spoken of through the prophet Daniel (9:27; 11:31; 12:11) --let the reader understand-- then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains (Ge 19:17). Let no one on the roof of his house go down to take anything out of the house. Let no one in the field go back to get his cloak. How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers (they were killed in caves by the soldiers of Antiochus)! Pray that your flight will not take place in winter (Chanukah is in the winter) or on the Sabbath (Antiquities 12.6.2). For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now--and never to be equaled again. If those days had not been cut short (Antiochus was killed shortly after this), no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened. At that time if anyone says to you, `Look, here is the Christ!' or, `There he is!' do not believe it. For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect--if that were possible. See, I have told you ahead of time.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Chanukah - Day 4
Borrowed from Revelation 13 (with a few explanations)
. Then I saw another beast, coming out of the earth (Israel). He had two horns like a lamb (by name: Jason and Menelaus, the two high priests who paid Antiochus for their position), but he spoke like a dragon (Jason was originally named Onias, but his name was changed because like the dragon he was Helenistic). He exercised all the authority of the first beast on his behalf (of course, because he bought the position from the first beast, Antiochus), and made the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast (to keep his position, it was necessary to have people worship the Epiphanes), whose fatal wound had been healed (It was only rumor that he was killed in Egypt - 2 Macc 5:5). And he performed great and miraculous signs, even causing fire to come down from heaven to earth in full view of men. Because of the signs he was given power to do on behalf of the first beast, he deceived the inhabitants of the earth. He ordered them to set up an image in honor of the beast (Antiochus wanted an image of Zeus set up) who was wounded by the sword and yet lived. He was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that it could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed. He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name.
. This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man's number. His number is 666.
. Then I saw another beast, coming out of the earth (Israel). He had two horns like a lamb (by name: Jason and Menelaus, the two high priests who paid Antiochus for their position), but he spoke like a dragon (Jason was originally named Onias, but his name was changed because like the dragon he was Helenistic). He exercised all the authority of the first beast on his behalf (of course, because he bought the position from the first beast, Antiochus), and made the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast (to keep his position, it was necessary to have people worship the Epiphanes), whose fatal wound had been healed (It was only rumor that he was killed in Egypt - 2 Macc 5:5). And he performed great and miraculous signs, even causing fire to come down from heaven to earth in full view of men. Because of the signs he was given power to do on behalf of the first beast, he deceived the inhabitants of the earth. He ordered them to set up an image in honor of the beast (Antiochus wanted an image of Zeus set up) who was wounded by the sword and yet lived. He was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that it could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed. He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name.
. This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man's number. His number is 666.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Chanukah - Day 3
. The lesson for today is that we do not live for the world, but for Christ. The Scripture says, “No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.” Mt 6:24
. We live in a time when all too many people want to live like others in the world. We want what they have, we want to live the life they live, and we never consider whether the things we do are of God or not. Consider: what are the themes and language in the movies we watch?
. Thus it was in the days of the Maccabees. Some of the Hebrews departed from their God and sought the lifestyle of the Greeks. They accepted their gods and their lifestyle. When the Greeks brought an idol to the town of Modin and asked people to bow down, at least one man was willing. But the priest Mattathias refused setting an example of how we are to follow God even in the face of adversity.
. “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
. “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives." (1 John 1:5-10)
. We live in a time when all too many people want to live like others in the world. We want what they have, we want to live the life they live, and we never consider whether the things we do are of God or not. Consider: what are the themes and language in the movies we watch?
. Thus it was in the days of the Maccabees. Some of the Hebrews departed from their God and sought the lifestyle of the Greeks. They accepted their gods and their lifestyle. When the Greeks brought an idol to the town of Modin and asked people to bow down, at least one man was willing. But the priest Mattathias refused setting an example of how we are to follow God even in the face of adversity.
. “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
. “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives." (1 John 1:5-10)
Chanukah - Day 2
Borrowed from Revelation 13 (with a few explanations)
. And I saw a beast (Antiochus Epiphanes ) coming out of the sea (the world of the Gentiles). He had ten horns and seven heads, with ten crowns on his horns, and on each head a blasphemous name. The beast I saw resembled a leopard (Greece), but had feet like those of a bear (Persia) and a mouth like that of a lion (Babylon). The dragon gave the beast his power and his throne and great authority. One of the heads of the beast seemed to have had a fatal wound (2 Macc 5:5) , but the fatal wound had been healed. The whole world was astonished and followed the beast (at least the Hellenistic Jews). Men worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast (he called himself Epiphanes) and asked, "Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?"
. The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies and to exercise his authority for forty-two months. (Josephus, Wars of the Jews V,9,4) He opened his mouth to blaspheme God, and to slander his name and his dwelling place and those who live in heaven. He was given power to make war against the saints and to conquer them (conquering Jerusalem and desecrating the Temple). And he was given authority over every tribe, people, language and nation (Egypt, Syria, Babylon and more). All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast--all whose names have not been written in the book of life belonging to the Lamb that was slain from the creation of the world.
. .He who has an ear, let him hear.
. .If anyone is to go into captivity, into captivity he will go. If anyone is to be killed with the sword, with the sword he will be killed.
This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of the saints.
. And I saw a beast (Antiochus Epiphanes ) coming out of the sea (the world of the Gentiles). He had ten horns and seven heads, with ten crowns on his horns, and on each head a blasphemous name. The beast I saw resembled a leopard (Greece), but had feet like those of a bear (Persia) and a mouth like that of a lion (Babylon). The dragon gave the beast his power and his throne and great authority. One of the heads of the beast seemed to have had a fatal wound (2 Macc 5:5) , but the fatal wound had been healed. The whole world was astonished and followed the beast (at least the Hellenistic Jews). Men worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast (he called himself Epiphanes) and asked, "Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?"
. The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies and to exercise his authority for forty-two months. (Josephus, Wars of the Jews V,9,4) He opened his mouth to blaspheme God, and to slander his name and his dwelling place and those who live in heaven. He was given power to make war against the saints and to conquer them (conquering Jerusalem and desecrating the Temple). And he was given authority over every tribe, people, language and nation (Egypt, Syria, Babylon and more). All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast--all whose names have not been written in the book of life belonging to the Lamb that was slain from the creation of the world.
. .He who has an ear, let him hear.
. .If anyone is to go into captivity, into captivity he will go. If anyone is to be killed with the sword, with the sword he will be killed.
This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of the saints.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Chanukah - Day 1
. Chanukah is one of the fun times of the year when we celebrate a victory given by God so His people could worship freely. There are many lessons that come through the Chanukah story which are good for each of us to remember.
. One of the lessons of Chanukah is to be committed to God. We should never be ashamed of our faith, and we should never back down and reject our faith no matter the cost.
. Many people ask me if I am Jewish or if I am Christian. I could answer the question something like ths: "Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God,smitten by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed." Isaiah 53:4-5
. The follow up question to this is "If you are a Christian, why do you still celebrate Chanukah?" The answer is that I celebrate Chanukah because Jesus did. Take a look at John 10:22-30 (and you can read further)
. "Then came the Feast of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was in the temple area walking in Solomon's Colonnade. The Jews gathered around him, saying, 'How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.'"
. "Jesus answered, 'I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one.'"
. I picture Jesus playing with the dreidle when he was young. His family celebrated Chanukah as he was growing up. And Jesus came to the Temple at the time of Chanukah and recognized the festival. Was Jesus the promised Messiah? Just as the Miracle of Lights was a display of God's power, the miracles brought by Jesus were a proof of His Lordship.
. Those who know Jesus follow Him. They hear His voice. He gives eternal life. This is the plan of God. Jesus is Immanuel.
John wrote in his first letter (1 John 2:7-17) this Chanukah thought:
. "Dear friends, I am not writing you a new command but an old one, which you have had since the beginning. This old command is the message you have heard. Yet I am writing you a new command; its truth is seen in him and you, because the darkness is passing and the true light is already shining.
. Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness. Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness; he does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded him.
. I write to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name.
. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning.
. I write to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one.
. I write to you, dear children, because you have known the Father.
. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning.
. I write to you, young men, because you are strong,
. and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one.
. Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world--the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does--comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever."
. One of the lessons of Chanukah is to be committed to God. We should never be ashamed of our faith, and we should never back down and reject our faith no matter the cost.
. Many people ask me if I am Jewish or if I am Christian. I could answer the question something like ths: "Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God,smitten by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed." Isaiah 53:4-5
. The follow up question to this is "If you are a Christian, why do you still celebrate Chanukah?" The answer is that I celebrate Chanukah because Jesus did. Take a look at John 10:22-30 (and you can read further)
. "Then came the Feast of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was in the temple area walking in Solomon's Colonnade. The Jews gathered around him, saying, 'How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.'"
. "Jesus answered, 'I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one.'"
. I picture Jesus playing with the dreidle when he was young. His family celebrated Chanukah as he was growing up. And Jesus came to the Temple at the time of Chanukah and recognized the festival. Was Jesus the promised Messiah? Just as the Miracle of Lights was a display of God's power, the miracles brought by Jesus were a proof of His Lordship.
. Those who know Jesus follow Him. They hear His voice. He gives eternal life. This is the plan of God. Jesus is Immanuel.
John wrote in his first letter (1 John 2:7-17) this Chanukah thought:
. "Dear friends, I am not writing you a new command but an old one, which you have had since the beginning. This old command is the message you have heard. Yet I am writing you a new command; its truth is seen in him and you, because the darkness is passing and the true light is already shining.
. Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness. Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness; he does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded him.
. I write to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name.
. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning.
. I write to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one.
. I write to you, dear children, because you have known the Father.
. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning.
. I write to you, young men, because you are strong,
. and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one.
. Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world--the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does--comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever."
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Revealing Our Lord and Savior
This Fall we are using the book of Revelation to guide us on Wednesday Nights. The sessions have been very beneficial thus far. John writes, “Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.” (Rev. 1:3)
Most of the studies I have done in Revelation have been on the Second Coming of Jesus … and what is going to happen “then,” and to those left behind. As you follow the scripture, there are lots of things that “happen” in Revelation. I could follow the same course, but I have the belief that God’s Word has something to say to me today… here and now. As I read through Revelation, I could not help but notice the songs sung and the poetry in the book. This book is also about Prayer and Worship and following God (and Him only!) This is where I have found a blessing. So I have followed that approach in my study and prayer.
As I read Revelation 1, the first thing that jumped out at me were the names and descriptions of Jesus. Most of them are in triplets, and some of them even amplify each other. Like for instance: In verse 5 Jesus is called 1) the Faithful Witness; 2) Firstborn from the Dead; 3) Ruler of Kings. Then the Bible says in that verse and the next: 1) He loves us; 2) He freed us from our sins; and 3) Made us to be a Kingdom and Priests. It is great how this ties together. Jesus was the Faithful Witness … because He loves us. 2) Because Jesus died on the cross and was firstborn of the dead, He freed us from our sins. 3) And as the Ruler of Kings He has the authority to make us a Kingdom of Priests.
Jesus is 1) Coming on the clouds; where 2) every eye will see Him (even those who pierced him); and 3) All people of earth will mourn because of Him. (Daniel 7:13-14; Mt. 24:30). He is the 1) Alpha and Omega; 2) the One who is, who was, and who is to come (the “I AM”); 3) the Almighty.
We come to an awesome Savior. One who is worthy of our worship. He is God incarnate who came to save us and give us life.
Most of the studies I have done in Revelation have been on the Second Coming of Jesus … and what is going to happen “then,” and to those left behind. As you follow the scripture, there are lots of things that “happen” in Revelation. I could follow the same course, but I have the belief that God’s Word has something to say to me today… here and now. As I read through Revelation, I could not help but notice the songs sung and the poetry in the book. This book is also about Prayer and Worship and following God (and Him only!) This is where I have found a blessing. So I have followed that approach in my study and prayer.
As I read Revelation 1, the first thing that jumped out at me were the names and descriptions of Jesus. Most of them are in triplets, and some of them even amplify each other. Like for instance: In verse 5 Jesus is called 1) the Faithful Witness; 2) Firstborn from the Dead; 3) Ruler of Kings. Then the Bible says in that verse and the next: 1) He loves us; 2) He freed us from our sins; and 3) Made us to be a Kingdom and Priests. It is great how this ties together. Jesus was the Faithful Witness … because He loves us. 2) Because Jesus died on the cross and was firstborn of the dead, He freed us from our sins. 3) And as the Ruler of Kings He has the authority to make us a Kingdom of Priests.
Jesus is 1) Coming on the clouds; where 2) every eye will see Him (even those who pierced him); and 3) All people of earth will mourn because of Him. (Daniel 7:13-14; Mt. 24:30). He is the 1) Alpha and Omega; 2) the One who is, who was, and who is to come (the “I AM”); 3) the Almighty.
We come to an awesome Savior. One who is worthy of our worship. He is God incarnate who came to save us and give us life.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Prayer - ἐρωτάω - Challenge
Sometimes we challenge things. Jesus’ disciples questioned why many things happened. There were the parables the disciple’s did not understand, and they questioned Jesus; There were situations they saw as they traveled, and they questioned Jesus. (Mk 4:10; Jn 9:2) Sometimes they thought that perhaps things were not in the best interest of Jesus and his band of disciples, like when a Canaanite woman came to him with a request. The disciples said, “send her away.” (Mt 15:23).
Sometimes there is some desperation to have something done. The disciples begged Jesus to heal Peter’s mother in law (Lk 4:38). The people of the Gerarenes begged Jesus to depart from them after they saw the demons go into the pigs. (lk 8:37)
Jesus challenged his disciples with questions: "Who do people say that I am?" (Mt 15:23; 16:13) He challenged them to do things (Lk 5:3)
In the world, we challenge each other, sometimes it is for the best, sometimes it is not. Sometimes it is because we don't understand, sometimes it is because we do not like what we understand. Sometimes it is just because we want something. Other times it is because we need something. The word There were the parables the disciple’s did not understand, and they questioned Jesus. The word ἐρωτάω is used often in our Bible.
The word ἐρωτάω is also used in Prayer. The rich man challenges God to send Lazarus to his house to warn his family about the consequences of not following God (Lk 16:27).
In the Bible most of the ἐρωτάω prayers are uttered by Jesus (Jn 14:16; 16:23, 26; 17:9, 15, 20). The ἐρωτάω prayer of Jesus is a strong prayer, because there is a strong need. It is a challenge (appeal) to meet the need.
And our God who is faithful, indeed meets the need. We can pray the ἐρωτάω also, and God hears.
Sometimes there is some desperation to have something done. The disciples begged Jesus to heal Peter’s mother in law (Lk 4:38). The people of the Gerarenes begged Jesus to depart from them after they saw the demons go into the pigs. (lk 8:37)
Jesus challenged his disciples with questions: "Who do people say that I am?" (Mt 15:23; 16:13) He challenged them to do things (Lk 5:3)
In the world, we challenge each other, sometimes it is for the best, sometimes it is not. Sometimes it is because we don't understand, sometimes it is because we do not like what we understand. Sometimes it is just because we want something. Other times it is because we need something. The word There were the parables the disciple’s did not understand, and they questioned Jesus. The word ἐρωτάω is used often in our Bible.
The word ἐρωτάω is also used in Prayer. The rich man challenges God to send Lazarus to his house to warn his family about the consequences of not following God (Lk 16:27).
In the Bible most of the ἐρωτάω prayers are uttered by Jesus (Jn 14:16; 16:23, 26; 17:9, 15, 20). The ἐρωτάω prayer of Jesus is a strong prayer, because there is a strong need. It is a challenge (appeal) to meet the need.
And our God who is faithful, indeed meets the need. We can pray the ἐρωτάω also, and God hears.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Prayer - ἐντυγχάνω - Hitting the Mark
ἐντυγχάνω – entygchanō
In 1307, Herman Gessler, a newly appointed Austrian Vogt raised a pole in the village square of Burglen and demanded that all the local townspeople bow before it. A man named William Tell passed by without bowing and was arrested. William Tell had a reputation as an expert marksman with the crossbow, so he was challenged to shoot an apple off the head of his son, Walter. William Tell accepted the challenge, loaded his crossbow, and with one shot, hit the mark and split the apple which had been placed on the head of his son. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpGZM3Kf1yw)
The pray of entygchanō is the prayer of “hitting the mark.” Paul would say, “I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air.” (1 Cor 9:26). Our prayers should be specific, well aimed, so we can hit the mark.
This pattern of prayer begins with God. That is the best place to learn about prayer. We see the pattern of ἐντυγχάνω prayer in Jesus Christ who is our High Priest.
“Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” Hebrews 7:23-25
The Priest is an intercessor for common people. In the Old Testament the Priest offers sacrifices for Dedication, Fellowship, and Sin offerings to help man build a relationship with God. If we come to a Priest and ask what kind of offering they will advise, the best they can do for us is only surface deep, and that does not always do what is necessary.
Christ, however is our faithful High Priest who knows us even as we are known. It was Christ who created us (Col 1:16), and who knows our frame and personality (Ps 139:13). Christ knows our ways (John 4:17-18) and our thoughts. As Christ intercedes for us, He prays exactly for those things we need. He knows the problems we face, the solutions we need, the gifts we are given and the ministry to which we are supposed to be involved. He knows every weakness and how it needs healing. He forgives our sins and can restore us. Christ is the perfect High Priest.
“Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died--more than that, who was raised to life--is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” Ro 8:34-35
The Holy Spirit, likewise prays for us. “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.” (Ro 8:26-27) The Gospel of John tells us the Spirit is our Comforter (John 15:26); Teacher (John 14:26); Protector (John 14:16-18); and Convictor (John 16:8-10).
This is the pattern of “hitting the mark” as we pray. It is knowing people and solutions; it is seeking God to really know people and situations as well as the will of God. Elijah “appealed to God against Israel: ‘Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me’ ? And what was God's answer to him? "I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal." So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace. (Ro 11:2-6)
Entygchanō Prayer begins with concern for people, and knowing them and their needs. This prayer includes seeking the face of God so we will know all situations; and concludes with praying specifically for people so we know when the prayer is answered and the target is obtained.
In 1307, Herman Gessler, a newly appointed Austrian Vogt raised a pole in the village square of Burglen and demanded that all the local townspeople bow before it. A man named William Tell passed by without bowing and was arrested. William Tell had a reputation as an expert marksman with the crossbow, so he was challenged to shoot an apple off the head of his son, Walter. William Tell accepted the challenge, loaded his crossbow, and with one shot, hit the mark and split the apple which had been placed on the head of his son. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpGZM3Kf1yw)
The pray of entygchanō is the prayer of “hitting the mark.” Paul would say, “I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air.” (1 Cor 9:26). Our prayers should be specific, well aimed, so we can hit the mark.
This pattern of prayer begins with God. That is the best place to learn about prayer. We see the pattern of ἐντυγχάνω prayer in Jesus Christ who is our High Priest.
“Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” Hebrews 7:23-25
The Priest is an intercessor for common people. In the Old Testament the Priest offers sacrifices for Dedication, Fellowship, and Sin offerings to help man build a relationship with God. If we come to a Priest and ask what kind of offering they will advise, the best they can do for us is only surface deep, and that does not always do what is necessary.
Christ, however is our faithful High Priest who knows us even as we are known. It was Christ who created us (Col 1:16), and who knows our frame and personality (Ps 139:13). Christ knows our ways (John 4:17-18) and our thoughts. As Christ intercedes for us, He prays exactly for those things we need. He knows the problems we face, the solutions we need, the gifts we are given and the ministry to which we are supposed to be involved. He knows every weakness and how it needs healing. He forgives our sins and can restore us. Christ is the perfect High Priest.
“Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died--more than that, who was raised to life--is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” Ro 8:34-35
The Holy Spirit, likewise prays for us. “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.” (Ro 8:26-27) The Gospel of John tells us the Spirit is our Comforter (John 15:26); Teacher (John 14:26); Protector (John 14:16-18); and Convictor (John 16:8-10).
This is the pattern of “hitting the mark” as we pray. It is knowing people and solutions; it is seeking God to really know people and situations as well as the will of God. Elijah “appealed to God against Israel: ‘Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me’ ? And what was God's answer to him? "I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal." So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace. (Ro 11:2-6)
Entygchanō Prayer begins with concern for people, and knowing them and their needs. This prayer includes seeking the face of God so we will know all situations; and concludes with praying specifically for people so we know when the prayer is answered and the target is obtained.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Prayer - αἰτέω - Begging
αἰτέω – aiteō
1SA 2:7 The LORD sends poverty and wealth; he humbles and he exalts.
1SA 2:8 He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap;
he seats them with princes and has them inherit a throne of honor.
"For the foundations of the earth are the LORD's; upon them he has set the world.
1SA 2:9 He will guard the feet of his saints, but the wicked will be silenced in darkness.
Aiteō is the prayer of Begging. Out of an inner need, a desire or a requirement, we beg God for something. This is not a simple asking, but it is more. Jesus said, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” Mt 7:7-12
People beg for many things out of desperation. Zechariah begged for a table so he could name his son John (Lk 1:63). James and John (Mk 10:35) and their mother (Mk 10:35) begged Jesus to seat them on his right and left. The multitude begged Pilate for Barabbas (Mt 27:20); and Joseph of Aramathea begged Pilate for the body of Jesus (Mt 27:58). The warden in Philippi begged for a light to see if the prisoners escaped (Ac 16:29). Paul begged that Christians might be filled with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. (Col. 1:9)
PS 72:12 For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help.
PS 72:13 He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death.
The lame man at the Temple begged for money – and the Lord gave him legs to walk on. (Ac 3:2) God is able to do immeasurably more than all we beg for or imagine. (Eph 3:20) The Lord wants us to pray out of need just like the beggar.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. (James 1:2-6)
JAS 4:2 You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.
There are some wonderful prayer promises in the Gospel of John. Note the Promises and the Conditions:
John 14:13 I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.
John 14:14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.
John 15:7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.
John 15:16 ... I … appointed you to go and bear fruit … the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
John 16:23 ... I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
John 16:24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
John 16:26-27 In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. (See 1 Jn 3:22; 5:14-16)
MK 11:22 "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. 23 "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, `Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
1SA 2:7 The LORD sends poverty and wealth; he humbles and he exalts.
1SA 2:8 He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap;
he seats them with princes and has them inherit a throne of honor.
"For the foundations of the earth are the LORD's; upon them he has set the world.
1SA 2:9 He will guard the feet of his saints, but the wicked will be silenced in darkness.
Aiteō is the prayer of Begging. Out of an inner need, a desire or a requirement, we beg God for something. This is not a simple asking, but it is more. Jesus said, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” Mt 7:7-12
People beg for many things out of desperation. Zechariah begged for a table so he could name his son John (Lk 1:63). James and John (Mk 10:35) and their mother (Mk 10:35) begged Jesus to seat them on his right and left. The multitude begged Pilate for Barabbas (Mt 27:20); and Joseph of Aramathea begged Pilate for the body of Jesus (Mt 27:58). The warden in Philippi begged for a light to see if the prisoners escaped (Ac 16:29). Paul begged that Christians might be filled with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. (Col. 1:9)
PS 72:12 For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help.
PS 72:13 He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death.
The lame man at the Temple begged for money – and the Lord gave him legs to walk on. (Ac 3:2) God is able to do immeasurably more than all we beg for or imagine. (Eph 3:20) The Lord wants us to pray out of need just like the beggar.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. (James 1:2-6)
JAS 4:2 You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.
There are some wonderful prayer promises in the Gospel of John. Note the Promises and the Conditions:
John 14:13 I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.
John 14:14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.
John 15:7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.
John 15:16 ... I … appointed you to go and bear fruit … the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
John 16:23 ... I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
John 16:24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
John 16:26-27 In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. (See 1 Jn 3:22; 5:14-16)
MK 11:22 "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. 23 "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, `Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Prayer - δέησις – Really Praying
δέησις – deēsis
As we pray today, what are we willing to give up? What do I mean, well, let’s examine these occurrences:
1. Zacharias – Luke 1:8-13 – Once in a lifetime opportunity. Time in preparation, prayer, study, fasting. This opportunity was so special, he gave up everything to be prepared.
2. Anna – Luke 2:36-37 – “departed not from the Temple” Loved God so much she gave all her time to the Lord and prayer.
3. Father of son with seizures – Luke 9:37-43. He sought out disciples, then Jesus. His investment included research, time and travel.
4. Cornelius – Acts 10:1-5 – He dedicated life to God, gave money, wanted to please God. He so love the Lord he prayed often and was willing to give up his reputation to admit he believed.
5. Paul – Romans 9:1-4 & 10:1– Cared for his people so much he was willing to give up everything, including his life.
Deēsis is the prayer that includes sacrifice.
All too often in this life we “stop in” to pray. We live a fast paced, hectic lifestyle, and we are not willing to fully stop and commit ourselves to prayer. When you desire something, how often do you spend two or three hours in prayer? How often do you fast? What do you give up for the cause? Do you care enough about loved ones to go out of your way to witness, or do you just share a word or two when it is convenient? (I wonder if that is why some are not saved? What is a life worth?)
Deēsis is often included in a list with other types of prayer – Ac 1:14; Eph 6:18; Phil 4:6; 1 Tim 2:1. We will study these other types of prayers later.
Deēsis in its root form can mean “to bind or fasten with chains;” and “to put under obligation of the law, duty, etc; to be bound to a spouse.”
Deēsis gives way to (James 5:16) fervent prayer. Prayer that is (1 Tim 5:5) day and night. The prayer of (Eph 6:18) perseverance.
Jesus prayed this type of prayer (Lk 22:32); as did Paul for each of the churches he started (Phil. 1:4). They were like his children. We should pray this type of prayer as we pray for the Lost (1 Cor 5:20), and as we pray for VBS workers (Luke 10:2).
The scripture tells us: For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."
As we pray today, what are we willing to give up? What do I mean, well, let’s examine these occurrences:
1. Zacharias – Luke 1:8-13 – Once in a lifetime opportunity. Time in preparation, prayer, study, fasting. This opportunity was so special, he gave up everything to be prepared.
2. Anna – Luke 2:36-37 – “departed not from the Temple” Loved God so much she gave all her time to the Lord and prayer.
3. Father of son with seizures – Luke 9:37-43. He sought out disciples, then Jesus. His investment included research, time and travel.
4. Cornelius – Acts 10:1-5 – He dedicated life to God, gave money, wanted to please God. He so love the Lord he prayed often and was willing to give up his reputation to admit he believed.
5. Paul – Romans 9:1-4 & 10:1– Cared for his people so much he was willing to give up everything, including his life.
Deēsis is the prayer that includes sacrifice.
All too often in this life we “stop in” to pray. We live a fast paced, hectic lifestyle, and we are not willing to fully stop and commit ourselves to prayer. When you desire something, how often do you spend two or three hours in prayer? How often do you fast? What do you give up for the cause? Do you care enough about loved ones to go out of your way to witness, or do you just share a word or two when it is convenient? (I wonder if that is why some are not saved? What is a life worth?)
Deēsis is often included in a list with other types of prayer – Ac 1:14; Eph 6:18; Phil 4:6; 1 Tim 2:1. We will study these other types of prayers later.
Deēsis in its root form can mean “to bind or fasten with chains;” and “to put under obligation of the law, duty, etc; to be bound to a spouse.”
Deēsis gives way to (James 5:16) fervent prayer. Prayer that is (1 Tim 5:5) day and night. The prayer of (Eph 6:18) perseverance.
Jesus prayed this type of prayer (Lk 22:32); as did Paul for each of the churches he started (Phil. 1:4). They were like his children. We should pray this type of prayer as we pray for the Lost (1 Cor 5:20), and as we pray for VBS workers (Luke 10:2).
The scripture tells us: For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Prayer - ἐπικαλέω – Calling Upon God
ἐπικαλέω – epikaleō
Literally this word means to “call upon.” On the human side, it means the name I “call upon” for you. Various people in the Bible were called upon by surnames: Lebbaeus was surnamed Thaddaeus (A man of heart – surnamed the one who confesses; Mt 10:13); Judas – Iscariot (From the town of Kerioth; Lk 22:3); Joses – Barnabas (Son of Encouragement; Ac 4:36); Simon – Peter (the Rock; Acts 10:5). The name is important.
Names are important. For if you are going to call upon a name to help you, it must be a good name. Paul called upon the name of Caesar (Ac 25:11-12, 21, 25; 26:32; 28:19) when he was falsely accused. Paul knew that a lower officer of Rome could do nothing, so he appealed to the highest name in the kingdom.
This sets the stage for epikaleo prayer, a prayer for unbelievers, and those who believe.
Why do we need to “call upon” the Lord? It is first of all because we need Salvation. “For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile--the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" (Ro 1:12-15)
“And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.” (Acts 22:16)
As believers we are identified as those who call the name as our strength (Acts 9:21; 15:15; 1 Cor 1:2; Heb 11:16).
We need help when life presses in upon us: “Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” 2 Tim 2:22. We need the name when facing death (Acts 7:59). We need God to come alongside us and be our witness when under attack (2 Cor 1:23).
“Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. (1 Peter 1:17-19)
As we pray this prayer, we recognize the name of God, we recognize the Greatness of God, and we call upon Him.
Literally this word means to “call upon.” On the human side, it means the name I “call upon” for you. Various people in the Bible were called upon by surnames: Lebbaeus was surnamed Thaddaeus (A man of heart – surnamed the one who confesses; Mt 10:13); Judas – Iscariot (From the town of Kerioth; Lk 22:3); Joses – Barnabas (Son of Encouragement; Ac 4:36); Simon – Peter (the Rock; Acts 10:5). The name is important.
Names are important. For if you are going to call upon a name to help you, it must be a good name. Paul called upon the name of Caesar (Ac 25:11-12, 21, 25; 26:32; 28:19) when he was falsely accused. Paul knew that a lower officer of Rome could do nothing, so he appealed to the highest name in the kingdom.
This sets the stage for epikaleo prayer, a prayer for unbelievers, and those who believe.
Why do we need to “call upon” the Lord? It is first of all because we need Salvation. “For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile--the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" (Ro 1:12-15)
“And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.” (Acts 22:16)
As believers we are identified as those who call the name as our strength (Acts 9:21; 15:15; 1 Cor 1:2; Heb 11:16).
We need help when life presses in upon us: “Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” 2 Tim 2:22. We need the name when facing death (Acts 7:59). We need God to come alongside us and be our witness when under attack (2 Cor 1:23).
“Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. (1 Peter 1:17-19)
As we pray this prayer, we recognize the name of God, we recognize the Greatness of God, and we call upon Him.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Prayer - שָׁאַל - sha'al
שָׁאַל - sha'al
Sha’al is the prayer asking. This prayer is not the prayer of begging God in desperation. It is not the prayer of asking God to judge in my favor (and against someone else). This is a prayer of requests. Through prayer we ask God for small favors; we can ask God for guidance in decisions; or we can ask God for wisdom.
Observe how this request is used in Scripture. This is the prayer that asks God for rain in Spring time; not in the midst of the drought – when we are desperate, but in the Spring – as a continuation of the good rains that God is already bringing. (Zec. 10:1) This prayer is not just a request for rain, but a thanks in recognition of the God who gives rain and refreshes the earth. The prayer can also be a thanks for refreshing in our personal lives, recognizing God’s continual presence and expressing a desire to continue in the relationship.
This is the prayer of desire to know more about God. Through this prayer we spend time with God, seeking to know Him better. God tells us, “ask from one end of the heavens to the other. Has anything so great as this ever happened” (Dt 4:32-34). God wants us to know of His work and His wonders. Through this prayer we acknowledge God’s greatness and glory. God wants us to ask Him “His Name,” (Ge 32:29) and through this get a glimpse of His Personality.
The Prayer of asking should be used to help us make decisions – not just in times of crisis, but to make decisions for the future. King David regularly asked God for guidance. (1 Sam. 5:19). God told Ahaz to ask for guidance, even to the point of requesting a sign; (Isa 7:11) but this king who relied on himself – refused.
God wants us to seek Him. God wants to guide us in all things. God gave the priest the Urim and Thummim to inquire of Him. God gives us prayer and His word to ask of Him. God wants us to ask of Him; He says, “Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession.” (Ps. 2:8)
The prayer of asking includes asking for good things – for others (Pray for the peace of Jerusalem – Ps 122:6), and for ourselves (One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. – Ps 27:4).
The Lord wants to provide for us….
PS 105:40 They asked, and he brought them quail and satisfied them with the bread of heaven.
PS 105:41 He opened the rock, and water gushed out; like a river it flowed in the desert.
PS 105:42 For he remembered his holy promise given to his servant Abraham.
PS 105:43 He brought out his people with rejoicing, his chosen ones with shouts of joy;
PS 105:44 he gave them the lands of the nations, and they fell heir to what others had toiled for—
PS 105:45 that they might keep his precepts and observe his laws.
However, There is a condition …The Lord wants us to walk in all His ways, love Him and serve Him. God desires to give blessings to those who love Him with all their heart and with all their soul, observing the Lord’s commands and decrees because that is the desire of their hearts. “This is what the LORD says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Jer 6:16)
Sha’al is the prayer asking. This prayer is not the prayer of begging God in desperation. It is not the prayer of asking God to judge in my favor (and against someone else). This is a prayer of requests. Through prayer we ask God for small favors; we can ask God for guidance in decisions; or we can ask God for wisdom.
Observe how this request is used in Scripture. This is the prayer that asks God for rain in Spring time; not in the midst of the drought – when we are desperate, but in the Spring – as a continuation of the good rains that God is already bringing. (Zec. 10:1) This prayer is not just a request for rain, but a thanks in recognition of the God who gives rain and refreshes the earth. The prayer can also be a thanks for refreshing in our personal lives, recognizing God’s continual presence and expressing a desire to continue in the relationship.
This is the prayer of desire to know more about God. Through this prayer we spend time with God, seeking to know Him better. God tells us, “ask from one end of the heavens to the other. Has anything so great as this ever happened” (Dt 4:32-34). God wants us to know of His work and His wonders. Through this prayer we acknowledge God’s greatness and glory. God wants us to ask Him “His Name,” (Ge 32:29) and through this get a glimpse of His Personality.
The Prayer of asking should be used to help us make decisions – not just in times of crisis, but to make decisions for the future. King David regularly asked God for guidance. (1 Sam. 5:19). God told Ahaz to ask for guidance, even to the point of requesting a sign; (Isa 7:11) but this king who relied on himself – refused.
God wants us to seek Him. God wants to guide us in all things. God gave the priest the Urim and Thummim to inquire of Him. God gives us prayer and His word to ask of Him. God wants us to ask of Him; He says, “Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession.” (Ps. 2:8)
The prayer of asking includes asking for good things – for others (Pray for the peace of Jerusalem – Ps 122:6), and for ourselves (One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. – Ps 27:4).
The Lord wants to provide for us….
PS 105:40 They asked, and he brought them quail and satisfied them with the bread of heaven.
PS 105:41 He opened the rock, and water gushed out; like a river it flowed in the desert.
PS 105:42 For he remembered his holy promise given to his servant Abraham.
PS 105:43 He brought out his people with rejoicing, his chosen ones with shouts of joy;
PS 105:44 he gave them the lands of the nations, and they fell heir to what others had toiled for—
PS 105:45 that they might keep his precepts and observe his laws.
However, There is a condition …The Lord wants us to walk in all His ways, love Him and serve Him. God desires to give blessings to those who love Him with all their heart and with all their soul, observing the Lord’s commands and decrees because that is the desire of their hearts. “This is what the LORD says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Jer 6:16)
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Prayer - זָעַק - za`aq
זָעַק - za`aq
There are many things in life we cannot do alone. We all need help in times of desperation, or when things get too big to handle. The word za`aq means to call to one’s aid. Za`aq can be a call to assembly, a call to join together, a shriek; a call out to someone or a proclamation.
Ancient Israel was a nation constantly under attack from outside forces. The people suffered in bondage under foreign invaders. Under domination, the people cried out for help. The first time we hear the Hebrew people cry out is when they are in bondage to the Egyptians in Exodus 2:23. The Hebrew people also cry out in Judges 3:9 to God who raised up Othniel; in Judges 3:15 God raised up Ehud; In Judges 6:6-7 God raised up Gideon; In Judges 10 God raised up Jephthah. In 1 Samuel 5:10, the people of Israel call upon the Ark of God.
Herein is a problem. We as people look to our own strength, or to our own inventions to save us in times of distress. We seek to figure things out ourselves rather than trusting God. The Bible tells us to Love the LORD our God with all our heart and with all our soul and with all our strength. The Lord’s help begins out of a Love relationship. In our relationship we “pray without ceasing;” we trust the Lord in everything; we let the Lord be our Shepherd and guide us. All of this comes first, and out of lifestyle. Then when help is needed, we are trained to cry out to God first.
All too often, people do not look to God. People cry out to others for help. Barak cried to Zebulun (Judges 4:10); Sisera cried to his chariots (Judges 4:13). The question comes, when you are in trouble, who do you cry out to? One of the natural things in life is to ask help of those we know, those we think can help us. At the beginning of life we call out to our mothers and fathers to give assistance, whether food, or protection, or whatever. But there are situations where people can not help.
When others can not help, people look to other things to help. In the Old Testament, some people cried out to idols (Isa. 57:13; Jer 11:12; Hos 7::14; Jonah 1:5). Today, when in desperation, man cries out to his idols: money; government; medicine; and many other things. But we need to realize ultimately our trust should be in the Lord. In desperation, we need to cry to God First and foremost.
David teaches us the lessons of prayer in Ps 142. King David cries to the Lord, and to the Lord alone. No matter who or what is the problem, David takes it to the Lord in prayer. There were many other places King David could have taken his requests (after all he was the king); however Only God knows the King’s path – past and future. The Lord has cared and will care for David’s soul. The Lord is David’s refuge. The Lord is David’s portion in the land of the Living. David’s choice was to cry to the Lord first, and not last. When we cry to the Lord – the Lord delivers us out of our distress (Ps 107:19).
There are many things in life we cannot do alone. We all need help in times of desperation, or when things get too big to handle. The word za`aq means to call to one’s aid. Za`aq can be a call to assembly, a call to join together, a shriek; a call out to someone or a proclamation.
Ancient Israel was a nation constantly under attack from outside forces. The people suffered in bondage under foreign invaders. Under domination, the people cried out for help. The first time we hear the Hebrew people cry out is when they are in bondage to the Egyptians in Exodus 2:23. The Hebrew people also cry out in Judges 3:9 to God who raised up Othniel; in Judges 3:15 God raised up Ehud; In Judges 6:6-7 God raised up Gideon; In Judges 10 God raised up Jephthah. In 1 Samuel 5:10, the people of Israel call upon the Ark of God.
Herein is a problem. We as people look to our own strength, or to our own inventions to save us in times of distress. We seek to figure things out ourselves rather than trusting God. The Bible tells us to Love the LORD our God with all our heart and with all our soul and with all our strength. The Lord’s help begins out of a Love relationship. In our relationship we “pray without ceasing;” we trust the Lord in everything; we let the Lord be our Shepherd and guide us. All of this comes first, and out of lifestyle. Then when help is needed, we are trained to cry out to God first.
All too often, people do not look to God. People cry out to others for help. Barak cried to Zebulun (Judges 4:10); Sisera cried to his chariots (Judges 4:13). The question comes, when you are in trouble, who do you cry out to? One of the natural things in life is to ask help of those we know, those we think can help us. At the beginning of life we call out to our mothers and fathers to give assistance, whether food, or protection, or whatever. But there are situations where people can not help.
When others can not help, people look to other things to help. In the Old Testament, some people cried out to idols (Isa. 57:13; Jer 11:12; Hos 7::14; Jonah 1:5). Today, when in desperation, man cries out to his idols: money; government; medicine; and many other things. But we need to realize ultimately our trust should be in the Lord. In desperation, we need to cry to God First and foremost.
David teaches us the lessons of prayer in Ps 142. King David cries to the Lord, and to the Lord alone. No matter who or what is the problem, David takes it to the Lord in prayer. There were many other places King David could have taken his requests (after all he was the king); however Only God knows the King’s path – past and future. The Lord has cared and will care for David’s soul. The Lord is David’s refuge. The Lord is David’s portion in the land of the Living. David’s choice was to cry to the Lord first, and not last. When we cry to the Lord – the Lord delivers us out of our distress (Ps 107:19).
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Prayer - תְּפִלָּה - Interceding for us
תְּפִלָּה - tĕphillah
There are at least a dozen Hebrew words for pray and prayer. But easily the most common word for "prayer" is tepillâ and the related verb, pâlal. This word can mean just “pray” or it can mean “intervene” or judge.
1KI 8:27 "But will God really dwell on earth? The heavens, even the highest heaven, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built! 28 Yet give attention to your servant's prayer (t@phillah) and his plea for mercy (t@chinnah), O LORD my God. Hear the cry (rinnah) and the prayer (t@phillah) that your servant is praying (palal) in your presence this day. 29 May your eyes be open toward this temple night and day, this place of which you said, `My Name shall be there,' so that you will hear the prayer (t@phillah)your servant prays (palal) toward this place. 30 Hear the supplication (t@chinnah) of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray (palal) toward this place. Hear from heaven, your dwelling place, and when you hear, forgive.
1KI 8:44 "When your people go to war against their enemies, wherever you send them, and when they pray (palal) to the LORD toward the city you have chosen and the temple I have built for your Name, 45 then hear from heaven their prayer (t@phillah) and their plea (t@chinnah), and uphold their cause.
This word for prayer asks God to act as a judge and intervene. See Psalm 17:1-15
On the television there are multitudes of programs about lawyers and police (who attempt to be lawyers). As they lay out their case before the judge, they want the judge to take their side. (That is true for both the prosecution and the defense). Which side is right? Well, it is always my desire for the side I am on to be found right.
On television the lawyers do anything to attempt to sway the judge: more evidence; better witnesses; bringing witnesses who are friends of the judge; or friends of the other side – but we know we can force them to take our side; practiced reasoning; bargaining with the judge or the other side; switching judges to a more “reasonable” judge; selecting the “right” jury; filling the court room with those who will “cheer” for us (and impress the judge); try to show the judge that public sentiment is on our side (my favorite is in Miracle on 34th Street when the letters to Santa Claus are placed on the judge’s desk); quoting the law; quoting obscure sections of the law; telling the judge what those who wrote the law meant (when the law does not take our side); trying to get someone on the other side to crack through pressure; persuasive opening and closing arguments; getting a renowned lawyer.
After all this, you might ask the question, “How does this relate to prayer?” It is because we are asking God to intercede or intervene for us in a particular case. Like, let’s say, Aunt Sally is sick; or our good friend Joe needs a job. Maybe its that a little more cash would come in handy and I would really like to win the lottery. I ask God to intervene for my side.
Have you ever looked at the idea that maybe it would be better if Aunt Sally did not get better? Think about this verse – 2 Kings 20:4-5: Before Isaiah had left the middle court, the word of the LORD came to him: "Go back and tell Hezekiah, the leader of my people, `This is what the LORD, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer (t@phillah) and seen your tears; I will heal you. On the third day from now you will go up to the temple of the LORD.
It was in the 15 years following the healing that Manasseh was born, one of Judah’s most wicked kings.
In the case of one out of work, maybe it is a ministry the person is doing – or the person who must lose a job to open the position.
תְּפִלָּה - tĕphillah = intervention, an act of God.
Now, this type of prayer is used particularly in the areas of confession, intercession and supplication. It is not as much used in Praise, Adoration or Thanksgiving.
Confession – 2 Chr 33:18-19; Neh 1:6-7; Ps 39:8-13; Ps 65:2-3.
Intercession (Supplication) – Ge 20:7; 1 Sam 1:10-12; Job 42:8; Ps 54:1-4; Ps 61:1-3; Ps 66:16-20; Ps 80:3-7; Ps 86:1-4; Ps 141:1-2.
There is another word that goes with this study – it is תּפִלָּה, tephillāh, "prayer," or "prayer-band" (plural tephillīn). There were two kinds: (1) one to be bound to the inner side of the left arm, and near the elbow, so that with the bending of the arm it would rest over the heart, (2) Another was to be bound in the center of the forehead, "between thine eyes" (Deut. 6:8). The boxes contain four biblical passages (Exodus 13:1-10, 11-16; Deuteronomy 6:4-9, 11:13-21). There is one overt reference to phylacteries in the New Testament – Mt 23:5 – “Everything they do is done for men to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long.” Another reference is found in Rev. 13:16.
DT 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. 5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
The lesson of the Phylactery Tephillin is that we ware to keep God ever on our minds and in our hearts. We are to “pray without ceasing.” It could be said that we should be interceding and intervening for people and about events in this world every time they are presented to us … and then on a continual basis – as is found in this New Testament passage:
LK 18:1 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. 2 He said: "In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared about men. 3 And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, `Grant me justice against my adversary.'
LK 18:4 "For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, `Even though I don't fear God or care about men, 5 yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won't eventually wear me out with her coming!' "
LK 18:6 And the Lord said, "Listen to what the unjust judge says. 7 And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? 8 I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?"
This prayer, this tĕphillah we are to constantly remember to pray in our hearts, and we are to remember the needs of others and ourselves.
There are at least a dozen Hebrew words for pray and prayer. But easily the most common word for "prayer" is tepillâ and the related verb, pâlal. This word can mean just “pray” or it can mean “intervene” or judge.
1KI 8:27 "But will God really dwell on earth? The heavens, even the highest heaven, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built! 28 Yet give attention to your servant's prayer (t@phillah) and his plea for mercy (t@chinnah), O LORD my God. Hear the cry (rinnah) and the prayer (t@phillah) that your servant is praying (palal) in your presence this day. 29 May your eyes be open toward this temple night and day, this place of which you said, `My Name shall be there,' so that you will hear the prayer (t@phillah)your servant prays (palal) toward this place. 30 Hear the supplication (t@chinnah) of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray (palal) toward this place. Hear from heaven, your dwelling place, and when you hear, forgive.
1KI 8:44 "When your people go to war against their enemies, wherever you send them, and when they pray (palal) to the LORD toward the city you have chosen and the temple I have built for your Name, 45 then hear from heaven their prayer (t@phillah) and their plea (t@chinnah), and uphold their cause.
This word for prayer asks God to act as a judge and intervene. See Psalm 17:1-15
On the television there are multitudes of programs about lawyers and police (who attempt to be lawyers). As they lay out their case before the judge, they want the judge to take their side. (That is true for both the prosecution and the defense). Which side is right? Well, it is always my desire for the side I am on to be found right.
On television the lawyers do anything to attempt to sway the judge: more evidence; better witnesses; bringing witnesses who are friends of the judge; or friends of the other side – but we know we can force them to take our side; practiced reasoning; bargaining with the judge or the other side; switching judges to a more “reasonable” judge; selecting the “right” jury; filling the court room with those who will “cheer” for us (and impress the judge); try to show the judge that public sentiment is on our side (my favorite is in Miracle on 34th Street when the letters to Santa Claus are placed on the judge’s desk); quoting the law; quoting obscure sections of the law; telling the judge what those who wrote the law meant (when the law does not take our side); trying to get someone on the other side to crack through pressure; persuasive opening and closing arguments; getting a renowned lawyer.
After all this, you might ask the question, “How does this relate to prayer?” It is because we are asking God to intercede or intervene for us in a particular case. Like, let’s say, Aunt Sally is sick; or our good friend Joe needs a job. Maybe its that a little more cash would come in handy and I would really like to win the lottery. I ask God to intervene for my side.
Have you ever looked at the idea that maybe it would be better if Aunt Sally did not get better? Think about this verse – 2 Kings 20:4-5: Before Isaiah had left the middle court, the word of the LORD came to him: "Go back and tell Hezekiah, the leader of my people, `This is what the LORD, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer (t@phillah) and seen your tears; I will heal you. On the third day from now you will go up to the temple of the LORD.
It was in the 15 years following the healing that Manasseh was born, one of Judah’s most wicked kings.
In the case of one out of work, maybe it is a ministry the person is doing – or the person who must lose a job to open the position.
תְּפִלָּה - tĕphillah = intervention, an act of God.
Now, this type of prayer is used particularly in the areas of confession, intercession and supplication. It is not as much used in Praise, Adoration or Thanksgiving.
Confession – 2 Chr 33:18-19; Neh 1:6-7; Ps 39:8-13; Ps 65:2-3.
Intercession (Supplication) – Ge 20:7; 1 Sam 1:10-12; Job 42:8; Ps 54:1-4; Ps 61:1-3; Ps 66:16-20; Ps 80:3-7; Ps 86:1-4; Ps 141:1-2.
There is another word that goes with this study – it is תּפִלָּה, tephillāh, "prayer," or "prayer-band" (plural tephillīn). There were two kinds: (1) one to be bound to the inner side of the left arm, and near the elbow, so that with the bending of the arm it would rest over the heart, (2) Another was to be bound in the center of the forehead, "between thine eyes" (Deut. 6:8). The boxes contain four biblical passages (Exodus 13:1-10, 11-16; Deuteronomy 6:4-9, 11:13-21). There is one overt reference to phylacteries in the New Testament – Mt 23:5 – “Everything they do is done for men to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long.” Another reference is found in Rev. 13:16.
DT 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. 5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
The lesson of the Phylactery Tephillin is that we ware to keep God ever on our minds and in our hearts. We are to “pray without ceasing.” It could be said that we should be interceding and intervening for people and about events in this world every time they are presented to us … and then on a continual basis – as is found in this New Testament passage:
LK 18:1 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. 2 He said: "In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared about men. 3 And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, `Grant me justice against my adversary.'
LK 18:4 "For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, `Even though I don't fear God or care about men, 5 yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won't eventually wear me out with her coming!' "
LK 18:6 And the Lord said, "Listen to what the unjust judge says. 7 And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? 8 I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?"
This prayer, this tĕphillah we are to constantly remember to pray in our hearts, and we are to remember the needs of others and ourselves.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Prayer - שִׂיחַ - Meditation
שִׂיחַ śîaḥ and הָגָה – hagah
Meditation is prayer of the mind. The American Negro College fund used to have an advertisement – “a mind is a terrible thing to waste.” Meditation is a prayer that calls us to use on our minds, to reach out beyond where we have been and grasp the truths that God has given. God has given us a wonderful mind that is capable of understanding many concepts, reaching out into the mighty truths of God, and applying those truths to our thoughts and actions.
Meditation is prayer that begins in the mind and moves to the heart. Psalm 1 gives us a great illustration:
PS 1:1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked
or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.
PS 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates (haga) day and night.
PS 1:3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.
Here is an illustration given by God that shows us how Meditation works. When we think of trees, we think of the shade they produce, and how we enjoy sitting under them. We think of the beauty of the leaves, and how they quiver in the breeze. But the part of the tree that speaks of meditation is unseen – yet, without this part there would be no trunk, limbs or leaves. This part is the roots.
Notice the roots; they spread out from the bottom of this tree in a fine feathery web. What do these roots do? They look for water and nutrients. They spread out all through the soil, looking for any nugget of nutrition they can find. As they spread they invade everywhere. I have this clump of leaves dropped on top of the soil several years ago, and notice – it is filled with roots. Roots are the best means to prevent erosion – because they invade the soil – and hold it.
Meditation is the same thing. It is digging into the Word of God, exploring every corner, every syllable, and every word of each passage – comparing this passage to others, and connecting them in our minds, our hearts and in our actions. (Dt 6:5) Once we get the truths of God in our mind, and they spread through to our heart – and into every idea and action.
Warren Wiersbe says: “The Word of God is unlike any other book: we must be on good terms with the Author if we are to learn from what He has written. Our relationship to the Lord is determined by our relationship to His will, and that is determined by how we relate to His Word. Too many believers have only academic head knowledge of the Word, but they do not know how to put this knowledge into practice in the decisions of daily life. What we all need is a heart knowledge of the Word, and this means being taught by God.” (Ps 119:102)
PS 119:9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word.
PS 119:10 I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands.
PS 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
PS 119:12 Praise be to you, O LORD; teach me your decrees.
PS 119:13 With my lips I recount all the laws that come from your mouth.
PS 119:14 I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches.
PS 119:15 I meditate (siha) on your precepts and consider your ways.
PS 119:16 I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.
There are two words for Meditation:
1) Siyach - has the basic meaning of “to be occupied with,” or “concerned about.” Thus meditation focuses upon one idea. It revolves the idea around looking at it from all sides. The constant recollection of God’s past deeds by the hearing of Scripture and repetition of thought produce confidence in God (Pss. 104:34; 119:15,23,48,78,97,99,148; Ps. 63:6-8; 143:5). - Holman
2) Hagah – literally means “to utter in a low sound.” The word is used to denote the growling of a lion (Isa. 31:4) or the cooing of a dove (Isa. 38:14). Therefore it has been suggested that, in ancient Hebrew meditation, Scripture frequently was recited in a low murmur. – Holman
The Jewish people have practiced both types of meditation. The first is obvious – “I meditate on your precepts.” Jewish teachers will focus on a verse or a word, and define, and redefine its meaning. Torah, Mishnah, Gemara,
Hagah meditation involves blocking out distractions so a person can practice Siyach meditation. The Jewish people have developed various methods of doing this.
1) use of the Tallit – The word means Tal (tent) lit (Little) – it can be used to give you some space. Nu 15:37-41, we are to hold the tzitzit (fringes) to remind us of God.
2) Davining – Davining is a movement to distract other outside influences. By moving and praying it helps the focus.
3) Reading Scripture while praying.
The first time meditation is mentioned in the Bible is Genesis 24:63 – “Isaac went out to the field one evening to meditate (7742), and as he looked up, he saw camels approaching. 64 Rebekah also looked up and saw Isaac. She got down from her camel 65 and asked the servant, "Who is that man in the field coming to meet us?"
"He is my master," the servant answered. So she took her veil and covered herself.”
The first time meditation is mentioned in the New Testament is soon after Jesus was born:
LK 2:16 “So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” So, Mary meditated on those words.
Meditation is keeping God
1) Close to your heart – Ps 77:6 - I remembered my songs in the night. My heart mused and my spirit inquired:
2) Consistently on your mind – Ps 119:27 - Let me understand the teaching of your precepts; then I will meditate on your wonders.
3) A way to achieve 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray Continually”
There are at least three false views of Meditation
1) Emptying the mind of everything. This is the path to becoming a zombie. It is a means of barricading the things of God from entering your heart. Some say that by doing this you can find yourself. Godly meditation is the opposite! It is filling your mind with God, and in so doing you can understand who He made you.
2) Focusing on the Creation. To focus on the objects of creation is like a contractor looking at the artist’s rendition rather than studying the blueprints. While it is true there are many beautiful and wonderful things in our world (such as flowing water or flickering candles), these things are only reflections of the one who created them. Our meditation should focus on the Creator.
3) The wicked individual meditates upon violence (Prov. 24: 2). The meditation of a righteous person contemplates God or His great spiritual truths (Pss. 63:6; 77:12; 119:15, 23,27,48,78,97,148; 143:5). He hopes to please God by meditation (Ps. 19:14). Thus meditation by God’s people is a reverent act of worship. Through it they commune with God and are thereby renewed spiritually.
Psalm 19 gives us some topics to meditate upon.
Meditation is prayer of the mind. The American Negro College fund used to have an advertisement – “a mind is a terrible thing to waste.” Meditation is a prayer that calls us to use on our minds, to reach out beyond where we have been and grasp the truths that God has given. God has given us a wonderful mind that is capable of understanding many concepts, reaching out into the mighty truths of God, and applying those truths to our thoughts and actions.
Meditation is prayer that begins in the mind and moves to the heart. Psalm 1 gives us a great illustration:
PS 1:1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked
or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.
PS 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates (haga) day and night.
PS 1:3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.
Here is an illustration given by God that shows us how Meditation works. When we think of trees, we think of the shade they produce, and how we enjoy sitting under them. We think of the beauty of the leaves, and how they quiver in the breeze. But the part of the tree that speaks of meditation is unseen – yet, without this part there would be no trunk, limbs or leaves. This part is the roots.
Notice the roots; they spread out from the bottom of this tree in a fine feathery web. What do these roots do? They look for water and nutrients. They spread out all through the soil, looking for any nugget of nutrition they can find. As they spread they invade everywhere. I have this clump of leaves dropped on top of the soil several years ago, and notice – it is filled with roots. Roots are the best means to prevent erosion – because they invade the soil – and hold it.
Meditation is the same thing. It is digging into the Word of God, exploring every corner, every syllable, and every word of each passage – comparing this passage to others, and connecting them in our minds, our hearts and in our actions. (Dt 6:5) Once we get the truths of God in our mind, and they spread through to our heart – and into every idea and action.
Warren Wiersbe says: “The Word of God is unlike any other book: we must be on good terms with the Author if we are to learn from what He has written. Our relationship to the Lord is determined by our relationship to His will, and that is determined by how we relate to His Word. Too many believers have only academic head knowledge of the Word, but they do not know how to put this knowledge into practice in the decisions of daily life. What we all need is a heart knowledge of the Word, and this means being taught by God.” (Ps 119:102)
PS 119:9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word.
PS 119:10 I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands.
PS 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
PS 119:12 Praise be to you, O LORD; teach me your decrees.
PS 119:13 With my lips I recount all the laws that come from your mouth.
PS 119:14 I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches.
PS 119:15 I meditate (siha) on your precepts and consider your ways.
PS 119:16 I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.
There are two words for Meditation:
1) Siyach - has the basic meaning of “to be occupied with,” or “concerned about.” Thus meditation focuses upon one idea. It revolves the idea around looking at it from all sides. The constant recollection of God’s past deeds by the hearing of Scripture and repetition of thought produce confidence in God (Pss. 104:34; 119:15,23,48,78,97,99,148; Ps. 63:6-8; 143:5). - Holman
2) Hagah – literally means “to utter in a low sound.” The word is used to denote the growling of a lion (Isa. 31:4) or the cooing of a dove (Isa. 38:14). Therefore it has been suggested that, in ancient Hebrew meditation, Scripture frequently was recited in a low murmur. – Holman
The Jewish people have practiced both types of meditation. The first is obvious – “I meditate on your precepts.” Jewish teachers will focus on a verse or a word, and define, and redefine its meaning. Torah, Mishnah, Gemara,
Hagah meditation involves blocking out distractions so a person can practice Siyach meditation. The Jewish people have developed various methods of doing this.
1) use of the Tallit – The word means Tal (tent) lit (Little) – it can be used to give you some space. Nu 15:37-41, we are to hold the tzitzit (fringes) to remind us of God.
2) Davining – Davining is a movement to distract other outside influences. By moving and praying it helps the focus.
3) Reading Scripture while praying.
The first time meditation is mentioned in the Bible is Genesis 24:63 – “Isaac went out to the field one evening to meditate (7742), and as he looked up, he saw camels approaching. 64 Rebekah also looked up and saw Isaac. She got down from her camel 65 and asked the servant, "Who is that man in the field coming to meet us?"
"He is my master," the servant answered. So she took her veil and covered herself.”
The first time meditation is mentioned in the New Testament is soon after Jesus was born:
LK 2:16 “So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” So, Mary meditated on those words.
Meditation is keeping God
1) Close to your heart – Ps 77:6 - I remembered my songs in the night. My heart mused and my spirit inquired:
2) Consistently on your mind – Ps 119:27 - Let me understand the teaching of your precepts; then I will meditate on your wonders.
3) A way to achieve 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray Continually”
There are at least three false views of Meditation
1) Emptying the mind of everything. This is the path to becoming a zombie. It is a means of barricading the things of God from entering your heart. Some say that by doing this you can find yourself. Godly meditation is the opposite! It is filling your mind with God, and in so doing you can understand who He made you.
2) Focusing on the Creation. To focus on the objects of creation is like a contractor looking at the artist’s rendition rather than studying the blueprints. While it is true there are many beautiful and wonderful things in our world (such as flowing water or flickering candles), these things are only reflections of the one who created them. Our meditation should focus on the Creator.
3) The wicked individual meditates upon violence (Prov. 24: 2). The meditation of a righteous person contemplates God or His great spiritual truths (Pss. 63:6; 77:12; 119:15, 23,27,48,78,97,148; 143:5). He hopes to please God by meditation (Ps. 19:14). Thus meditation by God’s people is a reverent act of worship. Through it they commune with God and are thereby renewed spiritually.
Psalm 19 gives us some topics to meditate upon.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Prayer - פָּגַע - Encountering God
Paga - פָּגַע—An Encounter with God
Paga – It is a Divine encounter, it is not just a chance meeting. It is a meeting with God Himself … Face to Face … Eye to Eye … Time spent with the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, time that has meaning and involves both the prayer and God.
It is like what happened in the story of the Good Samaritan (yes, I know that is Greek, not Hebrew – but it illustrates the point very well). A man was on his way down to Jericho, when he had a Paga, an encounter. It was not the type of encounter he wanted, but it was an encounter, a meeting – Thieves fell upon him. They encountered him. It is not something he asked for, it happened. And the results were life changing. Paga, encounter, it can mean to fall upon and to kill – as in the case of: “man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho” in Luke 10:30-36.
Paga, Encounter, that is what happened to Jacob at Mahanaim. Ge 32:1 – The Angels met him. (31:51-32:3)
The Paga, Encounter – It is what you do when you meet your neighbor’s donkey – or even an enemy’s gone astray. You encounter it and return it. Ex 23:4.
Paga, Encounter, it is what happened to Saul when he met the company of Prophets. He not only saw them, he met them, and it changed him – forever. It was a meeting orchestrated by God to change the man. 1 Sam 10:5. (1-8)
Paga. Encounter, It is intentional, on purpose. The Israelites came to Moses, after his first meeting with Pharaoh. The Pharaoh demanded more brick production – without the provision of straw. The Hebrews had to gather their own. They were not happy. The scripture says they Encountered Moses and Aaron (Ex 5:15-20)
Paga, Encounter, It is not like the chance meeting of the Priest or Levite on their way to Jerusalem in that story of the Good Samaritan, for they passed by on the other side. They only saw, they did not encounter the traveler. They passed on. Many in our churches say they want an encounter. They get close, but then when the real thing could happen, they just pass by.
It was the Samaritan who had the encounter. He stopped. He examined the need. He bandaged the traveler. He put him on his Donkey (not unlike the chance meeting with the donkey mentioned earlier in Ex 23:4, The Samaritan placed the traveler on the back of his donkey and took him to the Inn. He got involved. He paid the cost. And he even returned to make sure the traveler recovered – fully. Now that is a Paga, an encounter.
Paga, Encounter means to Intercede - "intercede" (to man: Jeremiah 36:25 (v.19-26) "to beg"; Jeremiah 15:11 (v.8-13);
Paga, Encounter, it is always impassioned. It is not just a casual meeting, or plea. It is impassioned. It is the request of Ruth in 1:16 (v.11-18); It is the request in Jeremiah 7:16 v12-16); It is the recognition of Job 21:15 v.7-15).
Paga, Encounter, it is the impassioned cry of God for His people - Isaiah 53:12 (There can be a cost to “encountering”); Isaiah 59:15-16.
We need to pray with God that there might be revival = Isaiah 64:5 (v.1-7); Jer 27:18 (not to man, but to God).
An intercessor is one who makes "contact" with God as opposed to the many who simply dabble in prayer.
This is a meeting, we are praying this summer we will meet God
Encounter God: Plead for Salvations (names) Pray for Revival
Plead for wellness (names)
Plead for Missionaries (names)
Plead for our prayer meeting – who will you encounter
Encounter – not just a chance meeting. This is major. This summer we hope to Encounter God. Other definitions are to meet, join, attack.
Paga – It is a Divine encounter, it is not just a chance meeting. It is a meeting with God Himself … Face to Face … Eye to Eye … Time spent with the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, time that has meaning and involves both the prayer and God.
It is like what happened in the story of the Good Samaritan (yes, I know that is Greek, not Hebrew – but it illustrates the point very well). A man was on his way down to Jericho, when he had a Paga, an encounter. It was not the type of encounter he wanted, but it was an encounter, a meeting – Thieves fell upon him. They encountered him. It is not something he asked for, it happened. And the results were life changing. Paga, encounter, it can mean to fall upon and to kill – as in the case of: “man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho” in Luke 10:30-36.
Paga, Encounter, that is what happened to Jacob at Mahanaim. Ge 32:1 – The Angels met him. (31:51-32:3)
The Paga, Encounter – It is what you do when you meet your neighbor’s donkey – or even an enemy’s gone astray. You encounter it and return it. Ex 23:4.
Paga, Encounter, it is what happened to Saul when he met the company of Prophets. He not only saw them, he met them, and it changed him – forever. It was a meeting orchestrated by God to change the man. 1 Sam 10:5. (1-8)
Paga. Encounter, It is intentional, on purpose. The Israelites came to Moses, after his first meeting with Pharaoh. The Pharaoh demanded more brick production – without the provision of straw. The Hebrews had to gather their own. They were not happy. The scripture says they Encountered Moses and Aaron (Ex 5:15-20)
Paga, Encounter, It is not like the chance meeting of the Priest or Levite on their way to Jerusalem in that story of the Good Samaritan, for they passed by on the other side. They only saw, they did not encounter the traveler. They passed on. Many in our churches say they want an encounter. They get close, but then when the real thing could happen, they just pass by.
It was the Samaritan who had the encounter. He stopped. He examined the need. He bandaged the traveler. He put him on his Donkey (not unlike the chance meeting with the donkey mentioned earlier in Ex 23:4, The Samaritan placed the traveler on the back of his donkey and took him to the Inn. He got involved. He paid the cost. And he even returned to make sure the traveler recovered – fully. Now that is a Paga, an encounter.
Paga, Encounter means to Intercede - "intercede" (to man: Jeremiah 36:25 (v.19-26) "to beg"; Jeremiah 15:11 (v.8-13);
Paga, Encounter, it is always impassioned. It is not just a casual meeting, or plea. It is impassioned. It is the request of Ruth in 1:16 (v.11-18); It is the request in Jeremiah 7:16 v12-16); It is the recognition of Job 21:15 v.7-15).
Paga, Encounter, it is the impassioned cry of God for His people - Isaiah 53:12 (There can be a cost to “encountering”); Isaiah 59:15-16.
We need to pray with God that there might be revival = Isaiah 64:5 (v.1-7); Jer 27:18 (not to man, but to God).
An intercessor is one who makes "contact" with God as opposed to the many who simply dabble in prayer.
This is a meeting, we are praying this summer we will meet God
Encounter God: Plead for Salvations (names) Pray for Revival
Plead for wellness (names)
Plead for Missionaries (names)
Plead for our prayer meeting – who will you encounter
Encounter – not just a chance meeting. This is major. This summer we hope to Encounter God. Other definitions are to meet, join, attack.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
