Tag: pray

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Esther: Part 2a – Plots, Deception, Risks and Faith

Read: Esther 2:19-4:17

With Ether’s role now established, the stories begin to unfold: plots, deception, risks and faith.

To set the stage, we’re given a sound-bite story about Mordecai overhearing a plot to assassinate King Xerxes. We actually learn a lot in just three verses, verse 22 in particular:

But Mordecai found out about the plot and told Queen Esther, who in turn reported it to the king, giving credit to Mordecai. Esther 2:22

Some observations:

  1. Mordecai’s presence at the king’s gate was so common that the conspirators didn’t think twice about him overhearing their conversation
  2. Mordecai had access to Queen Esther
  3. Esther had learned how to communicate with the king, no doubt some complex royal protocol
  4. When she made her report, Mordecai’s name didn’t surprise anyone

Sitting at the king’s gate may not be as trivial as it looks. Looking at various translations, it appears that after Daniel interpreted Nebuchadnezzar’s dream in Daniel 2, he took his place at the king’s gate (Daniel 2:49) while Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego served elsewhere in the king’s administration. Interesting.

Chapter 3 begins with Haman being promoted above other nobles (without any particular reason). Back at the king’s gate, everyone bows down to honor Haman–with the notable exception of Mordecai. This wasn’t a one-time event, Mordecai was continuously defiant.

Day after day they spoke to him but he refused to comply. Therefore they told Haman about it to see whether Mordecai’s behavior would be tolerated, for he had told them he was a Jew. Esther 3:4

Can you imagine the pressure? In my mind I see dozens of people bowing as Haman passes while one guy stays standing, perhaps not even paying attention to the mighty Haman. The NIV Study Bible notes suggest Haman is from the Amalekites and therefore the descension is the result of historical roots. This perspective helps to understand Haman’s response and perhaps the reason why he let it go on for “day after day” to reinforce his rationale that Mordecai disobedience and the need for such a visceral response.

All of this is necessary to the main theme in Esther and it’s important to note that these few verses encompass years, not days or even weeks. The book of Esther begins as Xerxes celebrates his reign in his third year. By this time (Esther 3:7), we are in the twelfth year — some nine years later!  As I look deep at the sub-themes in the text, the story takes on many dimensions and becomes very real as the drama unfolds.

Then Haman said to King Xerxes, “There is a certain people dispersed among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom who keep themselves separate. Their customs are different from those of all other people, and they do not obey the king’s laws; it is not in the king’s best interest to tolerate them. Esther 3:8

Haman was patient in establishing himself as trustworthy to Xerxes and sets the date for execution some 11 months in advance. All indications that this is a well conceived, methodical plan to rid the king of the infestation of “a certain people” and not an emotional response to a mere Jew not bowing down to Haman.

This should give us some insight into Satan’s playbook, the schemes that are designed to trap us, to turn governments against Christians and churches. It’s difficult to appreciate the tenacity because the text is so brief, but worth pausing a moment and considering how the plans are carefully constructed.

Torn robes, sackcloth and ashes became the wardrobe for Mordecai and many Jews throughout the land. Loud wailing was heard in the city. This was not suppressed by any stretch of the imagination — everyone must have known! CNN would have run 15-second soundbites for days.

Through couriers, Mordecai gets the words to Esther (he couldn’t see her while dressed in sackcloth) and asks her to appeal to the king. She’s learned a lot about royal protocol and responds:

any man or woman who approaches the king in the inner court without being summoned the king has but one law: that they be put to death unless the king extends the gold scepter to them and spares their lives. Esther 4:11

Mordecai’s response is one we’ve heard many times, so significant to remember as we go about doing the work of Christ even today:

“Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Esther 4:13-14

The pressure is on Esther and her response is to have everyone fast and pray for three days to build up support. In my mind, this was not a delay tactic or in any way some hope that this would pass. Far too many gears are in motion at this point, Esther knows this will happen if she doesn’t do something.

When this is done, I will go to the king,
even though it is against the law.
And if I perish, I perish.
Esther 4:16

Almighty and Sovereign Lord, I pray that we would have the courage to see the giants in front of us and pray this prayer–and if I perish, I perish.

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Project Stalled — Prophets Step In

Read: Ezra 5-6, Haggai 1-2 and Zechariah 1-6

We left the story at the point where it appears the opposition has won, the work in Jerusalem came to a halt. Does that read like an ancient headline or a text you just received?

Now Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the prophet, a descendant of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them. Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Joshua son of Jozadak set to work to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. And the prophets of God were with them, supporting them. Ezra 5:1-2

The first words of Haggai are stern and strong:

“You expected much, but see, it turned out to be little. What you brought home, I blew away. Why?” declares the Lord Almighty. “Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with your own house. Haggai 1:9

Zerubbabel and Joshua received the message well, they heard the word of the Lord through Haggai and as a result blessings flowed upon them for the sake of Jerusalem and for God’s glory.

Then Haggai, the Lord’s messenger, gave this message of the Lord to the people: “I am with you,” declares the Lord. Haggai 1:13

Those four words, “I am with you,” are perhaps the most powerful words anyone in ministry can possibly hear. When the Lord speaks these few words over your ministry, the world stands still. We know that if God is with us, there is absolutely nothing that will stand in the way–nothing!

A month later, Haggai speaks more words of encouragement for Zerubbabel and Joshua,

But now be strong, Zerubbabel,’ declares the Lord. ‘Be strong, Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘and work. For I am with you,’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘This is what I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt. And my Spirit remains among you. Do not fear.’ Haggai 2:4-5

Seriously folks, these are the words I long to hear, be strong, for I am with you and do not fear. Enough said, let’s go out and do God’s work with all our might!

Zechariah joins in with Haggai to speak truth and provide amazing encouragement:

‘Return to me,’ declares the Lord Almighty, ‘and I will return to you,’ says the Lord Almighty. Do not be like your ancestors, … “Then they repented and said, ‘The Lord Almighty has done to us what our ways and practices deserve, just as he determined to do.’”
Zechariah 1:3-4,6

Zechariah 2, A Man With A Measuring Line, tells the Israelites to leave Babylon, to come home!

“Shout and be glad, Daughter Zion. For I am coming, and I will live among you,” declares the Lord. Zechariah 2:10

Joshua is given new clothes and a turban in Zechariah 3–blessed and called by God to lead the people from exile.  Then Zerubbabel is blessed in chapter 4:

“This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty. “What are you, mighty mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become level ground. Then he will bring out the capstone to shouts of ‘God bless it! God bless it!’” Zechariah 4:6-7

Wow! Such amazing words of encouragement! Yesterday, call me weird, but I read aloud the two chapters of Haggai and most of Zechariah as if preaching a sermon. There are days, even months, when we need to hear such stirring words. The Spirit of God is not idle.

Zechariah 5 depicts evil being purged from Jerusalem, the iniquity of the people is removed from the land. Joshua is crowned as king in Zechariah 6, he will be a priest on the throne and there will be harmony between priests and rulers.  We’ll pick up with chapter 7 a bit later as it jumps ahead a few years.

And so, with those words of assurance, the story in Ezra 5 picks up the pace and a bold letter is written to King Darius to search his records and see that the rebuilding project was indeed sanctioned by his predecessor.

Then let the king send us his decision in this matter. Ezra 5:17

Not only did King Cyrus authorize the rebuilding, he offered to fund it!

Their expenses are to be fully paid out of the royal treasury, from the revenues of Trans-Euphrates, so that the work will not stop. Ezra 6:8

Punishment for disobeying this command:

Furthermore, I decree that if anyone defies this edict, a beam is to be pulled from their house and they are to be impaled on it. And for this crime their house is to be made a pile of rubble. Ezra 6:11

There’s nothing like a story with a happy ending:

So the elders of the Jews continued to build and prosper under the preaching of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah Ezra 6:14

As we seek ways to build God’s kingdom here on earth, I pray for such clear and bold prophecy. Those returning from exile were not wrong, it just looked like it from the reaction of those who did not want them to succeed. They were on the right path, but they needed to hear the message from God through Haggai and Zechariah and they did not disappoint the leaders! Lord, show us our iniquities, pack them up in a box and ship them to Babylon, wherever that is these days! Show us clearly what you would have us do this day for your purpose.

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Ezra: Return from Exile, Rebuilding Begins and Opposition Mounts

Read: Ezra 1-4

Finally, the remnant are able to return from exile, but this is just the beginning. Those who have occupied the land are not interested in seeing the Israelites succeed. Sound like a familiar scenario?

the Lord moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his realm and also to put it in writing: “This is what Cyrus king of Persia says: “‘The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth and he has appointed me to build a temple for him at Jerusalem in Judah. Any of his people among you may go up to Jerusalem in Judah and build the temple of the Lord, the God of Israel, the God who is in Jerusalem, and may their God be with them.
Ezra 1:3

Chapter 2 provides a list that shows the count of men from various families, priests, Levites, musicians, gatekeepers, temple servants and others that returned from exile. Even some that were excluded because they couldn’t find proper documentation.

It’s interesting to me that the musicians are distinguished whenever we see these lists. There is something about music that draws people to God. Not a large number, but they must have been important enough to be listed separately (along with the gatekeepers).

The priests, the Levites, the musicians, the gatekeepers and the temple servants settled in their own towns, along with some of the other people, and the rest of the Israelites settled in their towns. Ezra 2:70

They took seven months to get settled, then gathered to worship. They were afraid of those who surrounded them, but with the leadership of Joshua and Zerubbabel, the sacrificial system was restarted:

Then Joshua son of Jozadak and his fellow priests and Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and his associates began to build the altar of the God of Israel to sacrifice burnt offerings on it, in accordance with what is written in the Law of Moses the man of God. Ezra 3:2

Building an altar and sacrificing to God was not trivial in that time. There were plenty of eyes from not-so-friendly neighbors watching them closely. We definitely get that sense these days when we’re launching or relaunching a church. Non-profits don’t want competition for their space, though they may never come forward and say as much, they all know donor contributions are a limited resource.

Perhaps this is why Joshua and Zerubbabel waited for seven months before they began the rebuilding project. The foundation is reestablished and the pent-up excitement of the people cannot be withheld any longer!

With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord:
“He is good; his love toward Israel endures forever.”
Ezra 3:11

The youth had heard all the stories of old their entire lives, now they get to be a part of this incredible moment!

But many of the older priests and Levites and family heads, who had seen the former temple, wept aloud when they saw the foundation of this temple being laid, while many others shouted for joy. No one could distinguish the sound of the shouts of joy from the sound of weeping, because the people made so much noise. And the sound was heard far away.
Ezra 3:12-13

The oldest of the elders still remember the day when they worshipped freely. Those memories come rushing in and overtake them. It’s hard to imagine the elation and excitement in this country where we live in opulence. Where we decide what channel to watch, what diet we choose, etc. Freedom is not fully understood without the absence of the same. Lord, I pray we learn without imprisonment!

Opposition is Mounting

Why is it that someone’s joy and excitement stirs up jealousy in others? What is this part of the fallen nature of humanity? In chapter 4, the people around Jerusalem, those not part of the chosen families, show up to join in the festivities, but their hearts are bent on trouble.

But Zerubbabel, Joshua and the rest of the heads of the families of Israel answered, “You have no part with us in building a temple to our God. We alone will build it for the Lord, the God of Israel, as King Cyrus, the king of Persia, commanded us.” Then the peoples around them set out to discourage the people of Judah and make them afraid to go on building. Ezra 4:3-4

More than just discouraging the people, they were actively seeking to derail progress:

They bribed officials to work against them and frustrate their plans during the entire reign of Cyrus king of Persia and down to the reign of Darius king of Persia. Ezra 4:5

These people appealed to Artaxerxes with misinformation about the purpose of our ancestors, calling them wicked and rebellious people, trying to avoid paying him taxes, dishonoring the king, etc.

We inform the king that if this city is built and its walls are restored, you will be left with nothing in Trans-Euphrates. Ezra 4:16

Their appeal was heard by the king’s court.

As soon as the copy of the letter of King Artaxerxes was read to Rehum and Shimshai the secretary and their associates, they went immediately to the Jews in Jerusalem and compelled them by force to stop. Thus the work on the house of God in Jerusalem came to a standstill until the second year of the reign of Darius king of Persia. Ezra 4:23-24

Hiding is not the answer. Nor is arming ourselves with weapons. This reminds me of Jesus’ words to the disciples:

“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves.
Therefore be as shrewd as snakes
and as innocent as doves.
Matthew 10:16

Our battle may not be against flesh and blood, but there are many who would love to see us fail. The key is to carefully examine all that we are doing and see the direct connection between our actions, desires and plans to the great commission and calling of Jesus. When these lines are fuzzy, I would suggest that the opposition will frustrate the best of good intentions. At the same time, I believe that if we are walking in step with the Spirit, there is nothing that can stand in our way.

Lord, may we see your plans clearly in our hearts and in our minds.

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Imagine: No Bible

Last night I was having coffee with a friend as we explored Part III, Chapter 1 of Multiply, Disciples Making Disciples. The chapter is titled: Why Study the Bible? On the surface, those of us who were raised in the church don’t even consider the question, of course we study the Bible, don’t we? Or perhaps not. As I ask the question of pastors about biblical literacy, most shudder to think someone would evaluate their congregation, much less their own staff. Here’s the reality:

we, as a church, don’t study the Bible.

Chronologically, through this blog, we’re about to read the last books of the Old Testament, Ezra, Haggai & Zechariah, Nehemiah, Esther and Malachi. But before we venture into these books, I want you to imagine there is no Bible to explore the histories and prophecies of old. Whether you think about this in some sort of dystopian future world where books have been banished or you enter a time machine and land somewhere around A.D. 50, just imagine you no longer have the luxury of reading the printed Word of God.

Having just read A.D. 30 and A.D. 33, my mind lands on the time when Paul was writing the church plants in his day. Our Daily Bread included this reference today:

19Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 20built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. Ephesians 2:19-22

In typical Pauline fashion one paragraph is bound to the previous thought which was built on another and under the assumption that you understood the context. So many paragraphs start with “therefore” or in this case “consequently.” We have the ability to simply zoom out and see the rest of the text, but those around A.D. 50 relied on scrolls of the prophets which few had access to and the precious words from a letter that circulated through small gatherings of people known as Christians.

This is all they had and yet they became those who held fast to God’s Word, who hungered to learn more for they heard the message and story of Jesus from people who actually witnessed his teaching, death and resurrection!

Read these words from Paul to the church in Ephesus and consider our role in the church:

10His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, 11according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ephesians 3:10-11

Bouncing through a handful of translations and the MOUNCE Reverse-Interlinear edition (whatever that means!), the church, ekklēsia, suggests that we have a responsibility to make known to the world the purpose for which Jesus Christ came and dwelt among us.

But in A.D. 55, I wouldn’t have had the ability to click a few buttons and read more. I would have had to rely on the Spirit within me to comprehend those words.

I’m such a spoiled brat! I have BOTH the Spirit within me and the Bible in a dozen translations sitting on my bookshelf! God is all around me trying to teach me his Word.

Lord, I pray that I would thirst for your word and drink it up every day. Nourish me, Lord, for your purpose, not to make me fat! Show me how to impart this incredible story to the rest of the world in whatever ways I can.

Imagine no Bible for a moment.

Now imagine you are sitting in God’s library, a room full of books and writings that seem to have no end. The smell of bound leather is all around you as you make yourself comfortable. Jesus walks in the room and looks into your eyes with care and kindness. He sits across from you and begins to speak. He tells you stories about weddings and miracles, his concern about the establishment and the lost. He’s in no hurry to leave you as he laughs and smiles and cries. He just wants to answer all of your questions if you would simply ask with a heart that desires to hear the answer. He redeems and forgives. His incredible dialogue with Peter at the end of the Gospel of John always fascinates me, words of kindness and authority:

Jesus said, “Feed my sheep…Follow me!” John 21:17,19

Now open your eyes and see God’s Word in your hands. Be strong and courageous as you go out into the world today. Make him known to everyone!

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Habakkuk: Our Voice for God’s Answer

Read: Habakkuk 1-3

How long, Lord, must I call for help,
but you do not listen?
Or cry out to you, “Violence!”
but you do not save?
Habakkuk 1:2

This isn’t the verse you would pick for engraving on a plaque for the kitchen wall, but I’ll go out on a limb and say it’s one that you read and nod your head. So many times I want to ask God, “did you hear that prayer?” Habakkuk provides that voice for us, or at least for me. Time after time prayers are offered and it seems nothing is happening. Thanks Habakkuk. Thanks for having the guts to write down that which burns and tests my faith.

The Lord’s answer is not exactly what was expected:

“Look at the nations and watch—
and be utterly amazed.
For I am going to do something in your days
that you would not believe,
even if you were told.
Habakkuk 1:5

You asked, now stand back and watch and witness God’s response in short order. You complain, so here come the Babylonians, those who are feared and dreaded, the ones that invent laws to please themselves; these are the ruthless who laugh at kings and rulers and destroy city walls. These people are coming your way and you will not be able to stand against them.

Habakkuk proclaims God’s sovereignty and speaks for us again, looking for clarification, a kind of “help me understand” moment:

Is he to keep on emptying his net,
destroying nations without mercy?
I will stand at my watch
and station myself on the ramparts;
I will look to see what he will say to me,
and what answer I am to give to this complaint.
Habakkuk 1:17-2:1

God’s response is resolute.

“See, the enemy is puffed up;
his desires are not upright—
but the righteous person will live by his faithfulness—
Habakkuk 2:4

Hang in there Habakkuk! Remember the faith of Abraham, recall the stories of old. Hang in there all of us! God has a plan, even though our eyes are not capable of seeing and understanding. Woe to those who put their agenda before God’s.

  • Woe to him who piles up stolen goods Habakkuk 2:6
  • Woe to him who builds his house by unjust gain Habakkuk 2:9
  • Woe to him who builds a city with bloodshed and establishes a town by injustice! Habakkuk 2:12
  • Woe to him who gives drink to his neighbors, pouring it from the wineskin till they are drunk, so that he can gaze on their naked bodies! Habakkuk 2:15
  • Woe to him who says to wood, ‘Come to life!’ Habakkuk 2:19

Habakkuk speaks for us in chapter 3, concluding that he will be faithful, a testament to how we should respond.

Yet I will wait patiently for the day of calamity
to come on the nation invading us.
Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord,
I will be joyful in God my Savior.
Habakkuk 3:16-18

Even though I don’t see, yet I will wait, but more than that, I will rejoice while I’m waiting! God is my strength and refuge. He has adopted us into his family. It’s difficult to see at times, but we need to rest in that truth.

For the director of music.
On my stringed instruments.
Habakkuk 3:19

Chapter 3 is a song to be played, music to be written to help us remember. One of those tunes that get stuck in your head and you hear it all day long.

Wait patiently and rejoice.
I’m so tired of waiting!
Know that God is sovereign.
I know you rule, but…
Rejoice when trials come.
I don’t want to rejoice
Hear my voice
Take comfort in knowing
I died for you
Do something today that reveals to the world
that you understand
You are my sons and daughters

 

Featured Image by JP Henry on Unsplash

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Jonah: A Man Like Me?

Read: Jonah 1-4

Jonah is a short story that has captured the imaginations of countless people of all ages, but especially children in Sunday Schools and Vacation Bible Schools around the globe. It’s ironic that children enjoy the story while adults, if they would answer honestly, will most likely say it’s a fictional or allegorical work based on legend or folklore.

The NIV Study Bible provides this insight:

Although their specific suggestions range from fictional short story to allegory to parable, they share the common assumption that the account sprang essentially from the author’s imagination, despite its serious and gracious message. On the other hand, it must be acknowledged that Biblical narrators were more than historians.
They [Old Testament prophets] interpretatively recounted the past with the unswerving purpose of bringing it to bear on the present and the future. In the portrayal of past events, they used their materials to achieve this purpose effectively. Nonetheless, the integrity with which they treated the past ought not to be questioned. The book of Jonah recounts real events in the life and ministry of the prophet himself.

Why is it that we choose to believe one miracle and not another? We are so well educated that we think we can explain the universe, but in reality, through many apologetic arguments, at some point, we have to step out on faith. I’m not suggesting we put on blinders or act ignorant, but if we believe in a God that created the universe out of nothing, at some level it is possible that the same God could create a divine appointment between prophet and fish.

Then there’s the red-letter evidence in Matthew, the words of Jesus himself:

38 Then some of the Pharisees and teachers of the law said to him, “Teacher, we want to see a sign from you.” 39 He answered, “A wicked and adulterous generation asks for a sign! But none will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. 40 For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. 41 The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and now something greater than Jonah is here.
Matthew 12:38-41

I have much to learn and I don’t claim to have any knowledge at all except that I believe in the incarnational life of Jesus Christ, his death by crucifixion and subsequent miraculous resurrection. These beliefs already put me in the crazy pen, why not add the story of Jonah?

The Story

God tells Jonah to preach redemption to the evil city of Nineveh, a city so large that it would take three days to walk around it. That’s huge! Jonah decides to run away rather than be subjected to the humiliation of preaching in such a place as Nineveh. He pays for passage on a boat in the opposite direction and the trouble begins.

The superstitious sailors see the storm as a sign, something from the sea-gods must be happening. They cast lots and determine Jonah is the culprit. After Jonah begs them, they toss him overboard and the sea calms down.

At this the men greatly feared the Lord, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows to him. Jonah 1:16

Jonah’s first converts are on the boat after they are saved by removing him.

Chapter 2 contains Jonah’s short prayer in the belly of the fish, his repentance is recounted briefly here. Three days and nights is a long time to be trapped inside, plenty of time to think about mistakes and misgivings!

Chapter 3 describes Jonah’s renewed mission — he preaches to the Ninevites and they repent!

The Ninevites believed God. A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth. Jonah 3:5

Chapter 4 provides Jonah’s pathetic response, this is where I draw the title for this post, is this my response to God when his voice clearly tells me to do one thing and I choose to do another?

He prayed to the Lord, “Isn’t this what I said, Lord, when I was still at home? That is what I tried to forestall by fleeing to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. Jonah 4:2

Jonah’s mission was so successful that he wanted to die. These corrupt people, those who lived in great extravagance and self-absorbed living, actually repented and would reap the rewards for turning to God. Historically, we know this doesn’t last long, but for some, it seems, eternity was changed–they turned to God. Jonah is comforted by a plant, then God takes the plant away. God is in control the entire time, but Jonah has a part to play, he has a story to tell and many lives hang in the balance.

Jonah’s main flaw: he didn’t love the Ninevites as God loves all people. I continue to pray for God’s help in learning how to love as He loves, to see people as He sees them. When I get a taste for that kind of love, I know it’s real, but it’s hard to express in words.

Lord, help me to love as you do, at least one bit more today than yesterday. Help me to put aside the lessons this world has taught me and let me focus on your words, your actions, your ways.

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Obadiah’s Vision

Read: Obadiah 1

Just 21 verses long, the prophecy of Obadiah is short and sweet. The descendants of Esau, the Edomites, are singled out by Obadiah for their pride. In a recent video, Francis Chan, talking with a group of staff at Facebook, concluded that of all the sins we see, perhaps pride is the worst because it leads to so many other sins. Obadiah reveals the pride of the Edomites, their gloating will be their downfall.

His vision of from the Sovereign Lord about Edom:

The pride of your heart has deceived you,
you who live in the clefts of the rocks
and make your home on the heights,
you who say to yourself,
‘Who can bring me down to the ground?’
Obadiah 1:3

It seems the clefts of the rocks and the hidden places meant to hide the Edomites are not so hidden after all.

“In that day,” declares the Lord,
“will I not destroy the wise men of Edom,
those of understanding in the mountains of Esau?
Your warriors, Teman, will be terrified,
and everyone in Esau’s mountains
will be cut down in the slaughter.
Because of the violence against your brother Jacob,
you will be covered with shame;
you will be destroyed forever.
Obadiah 1:8-10

The Lord is Sovereign, we cannot hide from him nor choose that which we reveal.

You should not gloat over your brother
in the day of his misfortune,
nor rejoice over the people of Judah
in the day of their destruction,
Obadiah 1:12

Gloating, one of the most common actions as a result of pride, is likely the first indication of that which would humble us. Anytime I feel a sense of pride in accomplishment, I do my best to recognize that all gifts come from heaven above and God is the one who deserves all the glory.

Pride will lead to destruction:

Jacob will be a fire
and Joseph a flame;
Esau will be stubble,
and they will set him on fire and destroy him.
There will be no survivors
from Esau.”
The Lord has spoken.
Obadiah 1:18

I can’t help but wonder if we believe we can hide in the clefts of mountains we create for ourselves, places we feel no one will see. One thing I’ve told our girls over the years is simple, “lies will eventually become known, you can’t hide the facts forever.” There are many deceivers in the world, those who believe they are getting away with something by their clever actions, but God is the ultimate judge from which there is no escape.

Do not hide. What if church was a place where we could live out the words of James?

Therefore confess your sins to each other and
pray for each other
so that you may be healed.
The prayer of a righteous person
is powerful and effective.
James 5:16

What if such a place existed? Lord, help us to build communities of faith that are committed to loving each other the way you envisioned for us. Throw away our pride and squelch our gloating. Let us be the people you called us to be so that those far from you would see authentic love and kindness, so they would find you because of the love they see in us.

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Daniel’s Vision of Future Events

Read: Daniel 10-11

Daniel is given an incredible vision that covers many events that will unfold, kings that rise and fall, powerful people that come and go. The conclusion is stated a number of times, “but only for a time…for it will still come at the appointed time.” In the end, after it’s all said and done, God’s plan will prevail. That doesn’t give us a reason to gloat for many who seem wise today will look foolish in the end. My advice is to listen for the Lord’s voice in these words and follow the prompting of the Spirit as you hear them in your heart.

From the NIV Study Bible notes, “Many feel that these verses speak of conflicts to be waged between the antichrist and his political enemies. He will meet his end ‘at the beautiful holy mountain” (Daniel 11:45), Jerusalem’s temple mount, perhaps in connection with the battle of Armageddon’.”

I looked up and there before me was a man dressed in linen, with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist. His body was like topaz, his face like lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of burnished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude. Daniel 10:5-6

Daniel falls to the ground, as I’m sure I would if such a vision were to enter my mind, but the man encourages him to get up and listen.

Then he continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. Daniel 10:12

Daniel’s fasting and prayers gave Michael strength in his battle against the enemy. This reminds me of Frank Peretti’s, books, This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness, fiction writing that tries to capture such visions in a contemporary setting. Prayer matters.

The vision continues to be explained:

Then the king of the North will come and build up siege ramps and will capture a fortified city. The forces of the South will be powerless to resist; even their best troops will not have the strength to stand. The invader will do as he pleases; no one will be able to stand against him. He will establish himself in the Beautiful Land and will have the power to destroy it. Daniel 11:15-16

“He will be succeeded by a contemptible person who has not been given the honor of royalty. He will invade the kingdom when its people feel secure, and he will seize it through intrigue. Then an overwhelming army will be swept away before him; both it and a prince of the covenant will be destroyed. Daniel 11:21-22

With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him. Daniel 11:32

Satan will not pleased with any progress in this direction. We read words that point to that day when the Antichrist will attempt to rule all.

He will pitch his royal tents between the seas at the beautiful holy mountain. Yet he will come to his end, and no one will help him. Daniel 11:45

How well do we know the voice of God? We are given a most valuable gift in a book that gathers dust in most homes: the Bible. Within its covers the voice of God is heard in each passing page, story, allegory, psalm and historical context. The Bible isn’t to be worshiped, it is not an idol. Rather, it is a tool to be used to support our mission to the world, the dying world, that needs the light of Jesus. The more I read and allow the Spirit to speak within me, the more I gain his perspective. I’m far from getting this right, but I’m confident this is the right path.

His end will come. Rest assured, Christ wins in the end.

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Another Vision from Daniel and His Prayer

Read: Daniel 8-9

Daniel’s visions are detailed and somewhat disturbing. His prayer and incredible devotion give us an example to admire and challenge us to a higher level.

Daniel 8: Daniel’s Vision of a Ram and a Goat

Another vivid vision that captured Daniel’s thoughts, I can imagine he woke up sweating!

…suddenly a goat with a prominent horn between its eyes came from the west, crossing the whole earth without touching the ground. It came toward the two-horned ram I had seen standing beside the canal and charged at it in great rage. I saw it attack the ram furiously, striking the ram and shattering its two horns. The ram was powerless to stand against it; Daniel 8:5-7

It set itself up to be as great as the commander of the army of the Lord; it took away the daily sacrifice from the Lord, and his sanctuary was thrown down. Because of rebellion, the Lord’s people and the daily sacrifice were given over to it. It prospered in everything it did, and truth was thrown to the ground. Daniel 8:11-12

The interpretation lets us know that these events are far into the future. Many people, no doubt, see this distant future as today, or ten years ago, perhaps ten years from now.

“The vision of the evenings and mornings that has been given you is true, but seal up the vision, for it concerns the distant future.” I, Daniel, was worn out. I lay exhausted for several days. Then I got up and went about the king’s business. I was appalled by the vision; it was beyond understanding. Daniel 8:26-27

Daniel 9: Daniel’s Prayer

Daniel studied Jeremiah’s writings, an amazing feat all by itself considering the exile and means of communication back in those times.

I, Daniel, understood from the Scriptures, according to the word of the Lord given to Jeremiah the prophet, that the desolation of Jerusalem would last seventy years. Daniel 9:2

In his prayer, Daniel takes on the sins of the people and appeals to God for mercy.

“Lord, you are righteous, but this day we are covered with shame—the people of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem and all Israel, both near and far, in all the countries where you have scattered us because of our unfaithfulness to you. Daniel 9:7

There is something amazing about the words here, something I can’t quite articulate. Daniel is so far removed and isolated from other Jews because of the exile, and yet so in touch and aware of their plight. His humble request is echoed in Paul’s writings in the New Testament, forged in honor, delivered in praise:

We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy. Lord, listen! Lord, forgive! Lord, hear and act! For your sake, my God, do not delay, because your city and your people bear your Name.” Daniel 9:18-19

Prayer is a difficult thing to understand at times. I wonder how they are received, even if they are received to be openly honest, at times during great stress. Daniel’s example here is significant. Surely, here is a man of God that has kept the Law, done his part in setting the example. Yet he completely takes on the sins of our ancestors. This does not go unnoticed:

As soon as you began to pray, a word went out, which I have come to tell you, for you are highly esteemed. Daniel 9:23

When we pray with humble hearts, I do believe our prayers are heard, though the answers may not be provided in the manner or time we desire. Here we see an immediate response to prayer. The interpretation of which gives us something to ponder indeed!

After the sixty-two ‘sevens,’ the Anointed One will be put to death and will have nothing. Daniel 9:26

At best, these words had to be disturbing. I can completely understand why Daniel was shaken by the dreams. Living in exile, he dreams of a time to come when rulers come and go. Here he sees the crucifixion of Jesus, the Anointed One, but doesn’t see the rest of the story, the miraculous resurrection. I’m not sure I would want to go to sleep anytime soon!

The heart of Daniel is seen in these chapters. I’m in awe of his strength of character and humble heart. Lord, may we be as consistent and devoted as Daniel, may I be even one percent of the leader he was!

 

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Dream of a Tree and Writing on the Wall

Read: Daniel 4-5

Two chapters that provide opposing viewpoints from kings that ruled Babylonia: Nebuchadnezzar (ch. 4) and his son (ch. 5). Their response to Daniel’s interpretations is significant: one humbled himself and enjoyed his position, the other chose not to show reverence to God and died. While the lesson is certainly about recognizing God is the One True God, we also get to see how Daniel carefully works in his context to witness to the people in that environment.

I’m reading a fictional novel by Ted Dekker, A.D. 30, which helps me appreciate the culture of multiple gods through his excellent research and writing skills. At on point the principal character is told about the One True God, but rebuts the concept saying, “So, then, you have only one god who’s like all the rest. I would choose many over only one.”* As many from that culture, she would rather have many gods to cover all the bases. I hadn’t really thought about it until putting myself in the perspective of the characters in the novel. I’m not sure it makes sense in a few sentences, but I’m beginning to appreciate how difficult it must be to spread the Gospel to people who have been raised for generations to worship gods of many kinds and for all occasions. It’s this perspective, I pray, that may help in reading the unreached.

Dream of a Tree – Daniel 4

Nebuchadnezzar writes a letter to the world proclaiming God as the one true God:

It is my pleasure to tell you about the miraculous signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for me. Daniel 4:2

This time, Nebuchadnezzar provides the dream in detail, so at least they don’t have to start by reading his mind! (Daniel 4:10-17). Daniel interprets the dream, carefully choosing words that show his respect for the power and position of Nebuchadnezzar. Four times in just six verses, Daniel inserts “Your Majesty” in the narrative.

Your Majesty, you are that tree! You have become great and strong; your greatness has grown until it reaches the sky, and your dominion extends to distant parts of the earth. Daniel 4:22

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

Twelve months later, the dream became a reality, Nebuchadnezzar lived out the crazy dream and was restored:

At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever. Daniel 4:34

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

At this point it would seem reasonable to think that the Babylonians would honor God as a people–the kingdom would become that which honors God as the one true God. But such is not the case. One God, more powerful than all the others, fits nicely into their scheme of gods. This won’t last long.

Writing on the Wall – Daniel 5

We now have a new ruler in charge, King Belshazzar, the son of Nebuchadnezzar (the name is a bit close to Daniel’s Babylonian name: Belteshazzar, hard not to get confused at first). Belshazzar is having a party, probably not your casual business get together, but I’ll leave that up to your imagination. Obviously, the words of his father at the end of chapter 4 have lost their significance. Dad is gone, let’s party!

So they brought in the gold goblets that had been taken from the temple of God in Jerusalem, and the king and his nobles, his wives and his concubines drank from them. As they drank the wine, they praised the gods of gold and silver, of bronze, iron, wood and stone. Daniel 5:3-4

I guess that had a lot to drink and were probably not quite right in their mind when they saw the proverbial writing on the wall:

Suddenly the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall, near the lampstand in the royal palace. The king watched the hand as it wrote. His face turned pale and he was so frightened that his legs became weak and his knees were knocking. Daniel 5:5-6

They might not have been in their right minds, but the writing is actually on the walls, though the have no idea what it says. The queen remembers the legendary Daniel at this point, so they find him and attempt to entice him to interpret the writing.

If you can read this writing and tell me what it means, you will be clothed in purple and have a gold chain placed around your neck, and you will be made the third highest ruler in the kingdom.” Daniel 5:16

I love Daniel’s response, something we can all learn from:

Then Daniel answered the king, “You may keep your gifts for yourself and give your rewards to someone else. Nevertheless, I will read the writing for the king and tell him what it means. Daniel 5:17

Daniel’s words for this king are not coated with “Your Majesty” in every other verse; quite the contrary, Daniel takes off the gloves and essentially rebukes the king by reminding him how Nebuchadnezzar honored God, was driven insane for a period of time, then restored when he finally confessed. Daniel calls out Belshazzar for profaning items from the temple and acting like a fool.

“But you, Belshazzar, his son, have not humbled yourself, though you knew all this. …
You praised the gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, wood and stone, which cannot see or hear or understand. But you did not honor the God who holds in his hand your life and all your ways.  Daniel 5:22,23

Daniel reads the writing and provides the interpretation.

That very night Belshazzar, king of the Babylonians, was slain, and Darius the Mede took over the kingdom, at the age of sixty-two. Daniel 5:30-31

Quite the contrast in words and actions. Daniel remains a powerful voice to be reckoned with, but he also remains one of many in exile, living out his faith in a land that does not honor God. Daniel’s integrity remains unblemished in a difficult period of time and in an impossible setting to freely worship God. Our excuses seem trite in comparison.

Lord, help us to be those who walk with such integrity that rulers of this world would seek us out for advice and, most importantly, that our words would be your words; may our actions consistently honor you.

 

*Dekker, Ted. “P. 46.” A.D. 30: A Novel. New York: Center Street, 2015. N. pag. Print.

 

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