1. A New Game Idea
I like games! I really do. I enjoy playing games on the ipad, working Bible crossword puzzles, and creating new Bible games for this website. When Michael and I started working with our youth many years ago I searched through books and the internet for games to help them grow spiritually, but my search was fruitless. I asked God to show me things I could do with the kids and the more I prayed about it, the more ideas God gave me and soon my devotional web site was filled with games. We have paper and pencil games, and activity and party games, for young and old. While Michael worked on the study from Jude for the past two weeks, I have been working on a new game and decided to use it for the focus of this devotional study. (We played the "5 Second" game and thought it would be fun with Biblical questions, and rule variations.) The idea is to Name 3 items from a Bible category in seven seconds. Many of the categories are easy, but sometimes your mind goes blank when you know you only have a few seconds to respond. That makes the game fun! You can follow the link and print the game for your next group meeting or family time. There are directions for individual players and also for team play. Until then, read along with us as we review some Bible categories and learn more about God's Word. Name 3 Game2. Can You Name 3 Men In The Book Of Genesis?
Since yesterday was Father's Day I want to open with three men from the book of Genesis. I think the first choice should be the first man, Adam. God created a perfect man, and placed him in a perfect place, the Garden of Eden, where all his needs were supplied and everything was good. Adam chose to take a little taste of evil and broke his fellowship with God. Since that time all were born in sin, and oh how evil that can be. Because Adam lived 800 years after he had Seth and continued to have sons and daughters it is possible that some of Adam's children were still living when Noah was born. There is no doubt in my mind that many men of that day knew of God, but they did not know God. That is, until Noah, who "found grace in the eyes of the Lord." (Genesis 6:8) God used Noah to save his household and the animal kingdom from the flood that destroyed the earth. The third important man I see in the book of Genesis is Abraham. James 2:23 tells us, "And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God." God promised Abraham that he would be "a father of many nations." (Genesis 17:5) There are many more in the book of Genesis that are worth mentioning. "And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him." (Genesis 5:22) His son, Methuselah, lived to be 969 years old, the oldest man named in the Bible. (Genesis 5:27) We could name Isaac and Ishmael, the sons of Abraham, and Jacob and Esau, the twin boys of Isaac. Then there are the twelve sons of Jacob, who became the twelve Tribes of the Children of Israel. One of those was Joseph, who lived only 110 years, but his life is fully documented from his birth in Genesis 30:24, to his death in Genesis 50:26, where "he was put in a coffin in Egypt."3. Can You Name 3 Things That Fly In The Bible?
If we look for things that fly in the Bible, we can go back to the fifth day of creation when God created the birds. We could find them on the ark with Noah, for we know that he let the raven and dove fly out the window of the ark. God used swarms of locusts and flies in the plagues on Egypt and hornets to drive the people out of the land of Canaan. One of my favorite verses about birds is found in Isaiah 40:31. "But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." These are all good examples of things that fly in the Bible and we can see those things around us today. Now let's look at some supernatural examples that we find in God's Word. I have read of the cherubims which stood guard at the entrance of the garden of Eden, and those which Ezekiel saw by the river, and I don't really know what they looked like, but I don't think they looked like the little baby cherubs that we see as wall decorations today. As much as I can understand, the two replicas that were made of gold and placed over the Ark of the Covenant had wings that touched one another and stretched from wall to wall of the thirty foot room. In addition to the cherubims we also see the multitude of angels which appeared to the shepherds on the hill side and praised God at the birth of our Lord, saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good wil toward men." (Luke 2:14) There are different types of things that fly in the book of Revelation and I don't understand if they are living creatures or more like machines, but I am glad that I will not go through those wars during the end of time. The last example is perhaps the most unusual that we see of things that fly in the Bible. We find this in II Kings 2:11. "And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven." God sent a chariot of fire and horses of fire to carry Elijah to heaven. What an amazing sight that must have been! I don't like to fly in airplanes because I get motion sickness, but one day the law of gravity will let go and I will take a plain air ride when the Savior calls me home. What a day that will be!4. Can You Name 3 Times That A Window Is Mentioned?
If you had this question in a game it might be hard to think of 3 examples of windows in just a few seconds, but when we look at these you may remember the stories. The first window we find is the 1 cubit window in the ark. I can't imagine living in a three story ark, filled with all types of animals, for over a year, with only one 18 inch window. Some have said that the window went completely around the top of the ark, but even if that is true that is still a small window compared to the size of the ark. In the same story of the flood we read that "the windows of heaven were opened." (Genesis 7:11) We also read of the windows of heaven in Malachi 3:10. "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it." I also think of the Tabernacle and how it had no windows. The glory of the Lord was the Light, and the golden candlesticks were to burn continually. When King Solomon built the Temple, there were windows built for light. Several people escaped through windows. Rahab hid the two spies and let them down through the window. She later bound the scarlet line in the window for the saving of her and her family. Michal helped David escape through the window when he fled from King Saul. Paul was also let down through the window in a basket in Damascus. On the other hand, the wicked Queen Jezebel was thrown to her death out a window. A young man, Eutychus, died when he went to sleep during Paul's long preaching and fell out a window. I think this is the only time Paul performed the miracle of bringing someone back to life. The last example is probably my favorite, found in Daniel 6:10. "Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime." When King Solomon dedicated the temple he prayed that if the people sinned against God and were carried away as captives unto a foreign land and they returned to God with all their heart and prayed toward their land, that God would hear their prayer and forgive His people. (I Kings 8:46-50) Daniel knew this and opened his windows and prayed toward Jerusalem three times a day.5. Can You Name 3 Trees That Are Mentioned?
It is amazing to think of our God and His foreknowledge in creating trees. Although it is not mentioned in the Bible, trees provide oxygen, a necessary element for every man, woman, child, and creature living on this great land. From the Garden of Eden when trees were a major food source, to the book of Revelation (22:2) where the leaves are for the healing of the nations, we have references to fruit, apples, figs, almonds, and olives which were also used as olive oil in cooking and continual burning for light. (Leviticus 24:2) Baby Moses was placed in a small ark made of bulrushes, and gopher wood was used to build an immense ark to save Noah, his family and the entire animal kingdom. Then there were the great cedars of Lebanon that were hewn down and sent by floats on the sea to Joppa, and delivered to Jerusalem for King Solomon to use in building the Temple. The Israelites were given commands in how to use trees during times of war. "When thou shalt besiege a city a long time, in making war against it to take it, thou shalt not destroy the trees thereof by forcing an axe against them: for thou mayest eat of them, and thou shalt not cut them down (for the tree of the field is man's life) to employ them in the siege: Only the trees which thou knowest that they be not trees for meat, thou shalt destroy and cut them down; and thou shalt build bulwarks against the city that maketh war with thee, until it be subdued." (Deuteronomy 20:19-20) In the New Testament, Luke 19, we learn of Zacchaeus and how he climbed a sycomore tree to see Jesus. Not all tree references are good ones. Adam and Eve's disobedience in eating of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil was the first fall of mankind. In the midst of helpful uses of trees in Isaiah 44:13-19 we read of man forsaking the true and living God and making idols. "The carpenter stretcheth out his rule; he marketh it out with a line; he fitteth it with planes, and he marketh it out with the compass, ... He heweth him down cedars, and taketh the cypress and the oak, which he strengtheneth for himself among the trees of the forest: he planteth an ash, and the rain doth nourish it. Then shall it be for a man to burn: for he will take thereof, and warm himself; yea, he kindleth it, and baketh bread; yea, he maketh a god, and worshippeth it; he maketh it a graven image, and falleth down thereto. He burneth part thereof in the fire; with part thereof he eateth flesh; he roasteth roast, and is satisfied: yea, he warmeth himself, ... And the residue thereof he maketh a god, even his graven image: he falleth down unto it, and worshippeth it, and prayeth unto it, ... And none considereth in his heart, neither is there knowledge nor understanding to say, I have burned part of it in the fire; yea, also I have baked bread upon the coals thereof; I have roasted flesh, and eaten it: and shall I make the residue thereof an abomination? shall I fall down to the stock of a tree?" Absalom was hung in a tree during battle when his beautiful hair caught in the boughs of an oak tree. (II Samuel 18:9) Judas Iscariot hung himself after denying Jesus. And most prominent among our Biblical references is the awesome truth that as God created the tree He looked forward through the ages and saw His Son giving His life on a rugged cross. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)6. Can You Name 3 Diseases Or Handicaps In The Bible?
I know that my Lord is the Great Physician and I look to Him for healing. I don't like to spend time in a hospital, but I was glad to be where I knew doctors and nurses, and other medical staff were doing all they could to help me get well. I am thankful for all the prayers of my family and friends, and for peace and rest that only comes from the Comforter. I kept praying to my blessed Lord and longing to touch the hem of His garment. I know that He is able to restore my health! As we think of our Name 3 questions, let's see if you can name 3 diseases or handicaps in the Bible. The problems people had did not limit Jesus in His healing power. In His compassion the Lord healed those that were lame, blind, deaf, and dumb. With just His Word, He cleansed the lepers, cast out demons, and even raised the dead. He had compassion on the multitudes and reached out with a touch of love to those who had no other hope. The woman with the issue of blood reached out and touched His garment, and He commended her faith. (Matthew 9:20-22) In Matthew 9:2 we see that Jesus healed a man that was sick of the palsy because of the faith of his four friends who let him down through the roof. In fact, the only thing that hindered the healing touch of Jesus was lack of faith and unbelief. "1 And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him.
2 And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands?
3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him.
4 But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house.
5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them.
6 And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching." (Mark 6:1-6)
7. Can You Name 3 Bodies Of Water In The Bible?
Imagine the world suspended in the darkness and deep without form and void. With just the sound of His voice God brings light. Then God begins to separate the water from the water and creates the heavens and the earth, the land and the seas. A river watered the Garden of Eden and divided into four heads: Pison, Gihon, Hiddekel, and the river Euphrates. (Genesis 2:11-14) It took just over 1,600 years for mankind to become corrupt and God opened the windows of heaven and broke up the fountains of the deep and the earth was destroyed by a great flood. Bodies of water we find in the Bible include the brook Cherith where Elijah was fed by ravens, the great river of Egypt that God turned to blood, and the Red Sea which God dried up so the multitude of Israelites could pass over on dry ground. The Jordan River also stood in heaps on both sides for the crossing as Joshua led the Children of Israel into the Promised Land. Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the same River Jordan. My fondest stories of the bodies of water are those where the Lord Jesus taught by the Sea of Galilee, walked on the waters, and calmed the storms. I have often felt the Lord speak to my heart in those comforting words, "Peace, by still." (Mark 4:39) We can stand with the woman at the well and find the water of life. "But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:14) We look forward to a new river in Revelation 22:1, "And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb." Yes, there are many bodies of water in the Bible, but the smallest amount of water we find in the Bible is in Luke 16:24. "And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame." The rich man longed for just a drop of water... but it was too late. "And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely." (Revelation 22:17)8. Can You Name 3 Foods In The Bible?
When we had our summer Youth Bible Study at church we had a Bible Banquet for our youth group. Each person was asked to find a food in the Bible and bring it, along with the verse represented. It was a wonderful experience! We had familiar dishes such as fish, eggs, apples, raisins, beans, bread and honey. We drank water, milk and pomegranate juice. Many tasted lentils and fresh figs for the first time. It was fun for the youth and also their parents. There are several references to food in the Bible. God fed the Children of Israel with manna in the wilderness and they complained that they did not have the fish, cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic." (Numbers 11:5) Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14 give the dietary laws of the Israelites between clean and unclean foods. There were special feasts in the Bible when they ate the fatted calf or lamb from the flock. There were times of fasting when they obstained from eating. When taken into captivity, "Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank." (Daniel 1:8) The Apostle Peter saw a vision of all types of beasts and birds let down from heaven on a sheet and he heard a voice that said, "What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common." (Acts 11:9) After the resurrection of the Lord the disciples went fishing and returned to find Jesus with fish and bread upon the coals and He said to them, "Come and dine." (John 21:12) He is still extending His invitation. "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." (Revelation 3:20) And although I am not sure about all that heaven holds for us, I look forward to the day when I can sit with my Lord and Savior, and dear Christian friends at the marriage supper of the Lamb. "And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God." (Revelation 19:9)9. Can You Name 3 Women Who Became Mothers In The Bible?
I count it a great honor that the Lord would let me be mother to five wonderful children. I have been blessed to welcome their spouses into our family and enjoy being a grandmother. Today we are looking at mothers in the Bible. We find the first mother in Genesis 3:20, "And Adam called his wife's name Eve; because she was the mother of all living." There are several women in the Bible who were barren, and they prayed and God gave them a son. These were often special men, used of God in mighty ways. Among these are Sarai (or Sarah, the mother of Isaac), Rebekah (the mother of Jacob and Esau), and Rachel (who bare Joseph and Benjamin.) During the times of Judges we find Hannah who prayed for little Samuel and gave him back to the Lord, and the wife of Manoah, whose son Samson was a judge over Israel. When we come to the New Testament we see Elisabeth, who was old and barren, and God blessed her and Zacharias with the birth of John the Baptist. We find the beautiful story of Naomi and her daughter-in-law in the little book of Ruth. We see the faithfulness of mothers in Jochebed as she hid Moses in an ark of bulrushes and also in Paul's letter to young Timothy as he commends the faith of his grandmother Lois, and his mother Eunice. (II Timothy 1:5) The Bible is filled with mothers; many are not named, but we know that they are there, influencing the lives of their children perhaps more than any other force. Finally, we come to Mary, chosen to be the mother of our Lord."26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,
27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.
28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.
29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.
30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:
33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end." (Luke 1:26-33)
Mothers are very special. We need to do all we can to take care of our mothers. The Lord Jesus made sure His mother would be cared for, even from the cross. "When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home." (John 19:26-27)10. Can You Name 3 People Who Dreamed In The Bible?
I once dreamed that I saw some beautiful dresses, etched in my mind right down to the styles and colors, and I wished that I had a designing board to put it all down before I forgot the details. On several occasions I have sung new songs in my dreams, only to forget them once I woke up. We can dream of wonderful things and places and waken in sadness that they were just dreams, but just as often we can awaken in a panic from nightmares and be thankful it was just a bad dream. In Bible times God spoke to people in dreams. Can you name 3 people who dreamed in the Bible?A dream found in most children's Bible story books is that of Jacob's ladder which reached to heaven and the angels went up and down on it. Joseph caused his brothers to hate him when he told them of his dreams of their sheaves bowing to his and of the sun, moon, and eleven stars bowing down to him. Joseph learned that dream interpretations belonged to God and was able to interpret dreams of the butler and the baker in prison. Later he was brought before Pharaoh to interpret his dream of the seven good and bad ears of corn, and the seven fat and skinny cows. God gave Daniel understanding in dreams and interpretations, and he interpreted a dream for King Nebuchadnezzar when he could not even remember the dream. Sometimes God spoke directly to His people through dreams. "In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee." (I Kings 3:5) "But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost." (Matthew 1:20) Also to the wise men... "And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way. And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him." (Matthew 2:12-13) Pilate's wife tried to warn him during the crucifixion of Jesus. "When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him." (Matthew 27:19) Sometimes we have good dreams, and sometimes we have bad dreams. Sometimes they are realistic and sometimes they are foolish. There are other dreams, our hopes, our desires, our ideals. We need to pray that God will guide our leaders with the right dreams and vision. "Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he." (Proverbs 29:18)11. Can You Name 3 Events In The Life Of Jesus?
I just finished reading through the four gospels, so today we are looking at the life of Christ. We could name three events in His birth alone. It was foretold by the Old Testament prophets. The angel Gabriel proclaimed His birth to Mary. He was wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. The angels told the shepherds of His birth and they spread the word to others. The wise men travelled from the east and gave Him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Before beginning His ministry He was tempted in the wilderness so that He could help us through our temptations. "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." (Hebrews 4:15) We could mention His miracles, opening blinded eyes, making the lame to walk, healing the lepers, and feeding 5,000 men plus women and children with just two little fish and five loaves of bread. Then there was His teaching, by the shores of Galilee or in the temple, "Never man spake like this man." (John 7:46) "For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes." (Matthew 7:29) He called twelve disciples to follow Him, knowing that Judas Iscariot would betray Him. He came to die on a cruel cross so that we might live. All because of His great love! "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13) "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16) He was buried in a borrowed tomb and rose again the third day. "31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.
34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:31-39)
12. Can You Name 3 Little Things In The Bible?
We were sitting at the table Monday night and Susanna said, "Your name is Jedidiah Little." He was quick to respond, "I big boy." I said, "Yes, you are a big boy!" This shows that even a two year old does not like to be called little. We can look in Luke 19 and find the story of Zacchaeus, a man of little stature, who climbed a sycomore tree to see Jesus. "Little" does not always refer to physical size. King Saul was head and shoulders taller than everyone else but we read in I Samuel 15:17, "And Samuel said, When thou wast little in thine own sight, wast thou not made the head of the tribes of Israel, and the LORD anointed thee king over Israel?" This thought is carried throughout the Bible. "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up." (James 4:10) Little things are easily lost. Jesus told the parable of the woman who lost a piece of silver and searched until she found it. We must humble ourselves and see our lost condition before we can be saved. We can find more little things in the Bible. "24 There be four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise:
25 The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer;
26 The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks;
27 The locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them by bands;
28 The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings' palaces." (Proverbs 30:24-28)
We find that it is the little problems that hinder our relationships as we read in Song of Solomon 2:15. "Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes." James warns of the dangers of our little tongue. "Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!" (James 3:5) Jesus also spoke of our little faith. "Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?" (Luke 12:27-28) He also warned of our little time. "Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest." (John 4:35) "Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest." (Luke 10:2)13. Can You Name 3 Materials Used To Make Clothes In The Bible?
Clothes have sure come a long way since the first fig leaf fashions of Adam and Eve. When they sinned against God in the Garden of Eden they sewed fig leaves into aprons and tried to hide from God. An animal was sacrificed to clothe them. "Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them." (Genesis 3:21) Royalty was clothed in fine linen, as were the priests. "And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck;" (Genesis 41:42) Not only were the priests of the Lord holy, but their clothes were holy. "When the priests enter therein, then shall they not go out of the holy place into the utter court, but there they shall lay their garments wherein they minister; for they are holy; and shall put on other garments, and shall approach to those things which are for the people." (Ezekiel 42:14) The Israelites were instructed to wash their clothes and purify their raiment made of skins and goats' hair. (Numbers 31:2) John the Baptist wore clothes made "of camel's hair and a leathern girdle about his loins." (Matthew 3:4) During mourning people sat in sackcloths and ashes. In Proverbs 31 we find the praises of a virtuous woman in making clothes."13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come."
We are all born into this cursed world clothed in the filthy rags of sin. "But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away." (Isaiah 64:6) But when the Lord saved me, He clothed me in His righteousness and one day I will trade my filthy garments for a robe of white. "After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb." (Revelation 7:9-10) "I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels." (Isaiah 61:10)14. Can You Name 3 Words That Begin With The Letter "H" In The Bible?
When I was thinking of categories for this game I threw in a few that were only linked by a specific letter of the alphabet. You can find people like heavy hearted Hannah, hateful Haman, and humble Hezekiah. With the letter "H" you can have three words that sound the same as heel, heal, and hill. Jesus came to heal and forgive, and satan bruised His heel on the hill of Mt. Calvary, but Christ reigns victorious forevermore! We can find help and hope for the highways of life in scriptures like Matthew 10:30, "But the very hairs of your head are all numbered." We learn that "If any man have ears to hear, let him hear" (Mark 4:23) and also to hide His Word in our hearts. We can humble ourselves before our holy Lord and Savior and be lifted up by His nail pierced hands. We find honey in the Rock and hymns in the night. Last in my list, we find a home for eternity, heaven or hell. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." (John 3:16-18)
15. Can You Name 3 Couples In The Bible?
Adam and Eve, the first couple, of whom it was said, "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." (Genesis 2:24) There are many couples named in the Bible, but I want to begin with a few that we only have the name of the husband. I think of Job and his wife. She is criticized for telling Job to curse God and die, but remember that she lost all she had, too. Those were her ten children that all died at the same time. Another wife we are told to remember is Lot's wife. The angels told Lot to flee with his family and not to look back. God rained fire and brimstone on Sodom and Gomorrah and even though Lot and his wife escaped with their two single daughters, they were leaving their married daughters and their families behind. They may have had grandchildren, or a nice home, or wealth, but they were leaving it all behind. And maybe Lot's wife heard the cries of her daughters, "Momma! Momma!" as the fire fell from heaven. Sometimes it's hard not to look back at what the Lord has brought us from. A couple whose children were saved from God's judgment is Noah and his wife. Noah worked hard to build the ark, but his wife had to work hard, too. They had to gather enough food for themselves, their family, and all the animals. Then, there is the sad story of Ezekiel and his wife. "Also the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man, behold, I take away from thee the desire of thine eyes with a stroke: yet neither shalt thou mourn nor weep, neither shall thy tears run down. Forbear to cry, make no mourning for the dead, bind the tire of thine head upon thee, and put on thy shoes upon thy feet, and cover not thy lips, and eat not the bread of men. So I spake unto the people in the morning: and at even my wife died; and I did in the morning as I was commanded." (Ezekiel 24:15-18)Now, let's look at some of the couples who are named. Abraham and Sarah are both commended for their faith in Hebrews 11. They had a son, Isaac, in their old age and his wife was Rebekah. Isaac and Rebekah had twin boys, Jacob and Esau. Jacob was the younger of the two but cheated his brother out of his birthright and blessing. Jacob loved Rachel, but he was tricked into a marriage with her sister, Leah. He also married Rachel. What a strained relationship that must have been. The book of I Samuel opens with the story of Elkanah and his wives, Peninnah and Hannah, and the love he had for Hannah. In the book of Ruth we can read of Ruth and Boaz, her kinsman redeemer. The book of Hosea tells us of his love so great for Gomer that he bought her back out of slavery after she was unfaithful to him. Not all couples had this great love for each other. Delilah betrayed Samson to the Philistines. Some couples were opposites like Nabal, the foolish man, and his wise wife, Abigail. King Ahab and Jezebel were wicked. "But there was none like unto Ahab, which did sell himself to work wickedness in the sight of the LORD, whom Jezebel his wife stirred up." (I Kings 21:25) The New Testament time period opens with Zacharias and Elisabeth, the parents of John the Baptist. We also have the virgin Mary, and her husband Joseph, "as was supposed" the parents of our Lord Jesus Christ. In the early church we find Ananias and Sapphira who lied to the church and both died in Acts 5:1-10. Aquila and Priscilla were very helpful in that they let Paul live with them, they helped Apollos understand the scriptures, and they had a church in their home. (Acts 18 and I Corinthians 16:19) Let's strive to be like Aquila and Priscilla and do what we can for the work of the Lord.16. Can You Name 3 People That Sailed In The Bible?
I enjoyed looking at photos shared online by friends celebrating the 4th of July at the beach or on a lake. I have many fond memories at the beach and in my younger days I enjoyed camping in a tent and spending the day on a boat. In Ezekiel 47:5 we find "waters to swim in" and in John 21:7 we see Peter "cast himself into the sea" and swimming to shore to see Jesus, but I can't find any who went sailing for pleasure. Moses sailed at the age of 3 months when his mother put him on the river in the ark of bulrushes to hide him from Pharaoh. Noah and his family spent over a year on the ark but I doubt that there was much pleasure on their cruise. I think they were probably overwhelmed by the fears of the unknown, and being closed in with the smells and sounds and care of the animals. In II Samuel 19:18 we read of the use of a ferry boat to bring King David and his household over the Jordan when they returned after the death of Absalom. King Solomon had a navy of ships that brought gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks every three years from Tarshish. (II Chronicles 9:21) Jonah tried to run from God as he went on a ship going to Tarshish. Peter, Andrew, James, and John were fishermen when Jesus called them to "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19) That was not a life of leisure, and there was probably more than one occasion when they toiled all night and caught nothing. Paul, Barnabas, Silas, and John Mark travelled in part by sea as missionaries to carry the gospel to other lands. Paul even speaks of spending a night and a day in the deep in II Corinthians 11:25. We also read of Jesus walking on the water, and calming the storms with his Word, "Peace, be still." (Mark 4:39) As I journey on this sea of life I am glad that I know the One who can calm the storms or sail with me through the storms. Either way, I know that my final destination will be with be my new home in heaven, to live forever with my blessed Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Hallelujah!17. Can You Name 3 Dangerous Animals In The Bible?
I want to look at different animal stories in the Bible, beginning today with dangerous animals. I have often wondered when animals became dangerous. I don't believe that any of the animals tried to attack Adam when they went to him to be named. Eve was not afraid of the serpent when it spoke to her in the garden before the curse. And maybe the animals that went on the ark had a gentle nature. Look at the verses following the flood. "And God blessed Noah and his sons, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth. And the fear of you and the dread of you shall be upon every beast of the earth, and upon every fowl of the air, upon all that moveth upon the earth, and upon all the fishes of the sea; into your hand are they delivered. Every moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you; even as the green herb have I given you all things." (Genesis 9:1-3) These are the first verses that mention eating meat. The difference between clean and unclean animals before this may have been for sacrifices, and not food. At some point in time, animals became dangerous. Even dogs are spoken of in a bad way, especially in the death of wicked Jezebel. As a shepherd boy David killed a lion and a bear to protect the sheep. (I Samuel 17:34-37) Shepherds had to watch for wolves, and leopards are also mentioned in the scriptures. In II Kings 2:24 two bears attacked 42 chidren who were making fun of Elisha. In the book of Jonah we find a great fish, or whale, large enough to swallow Jonah whole. Not all dangerous creatures are large. We find mice and bats, which may have carried diseases, and also hornets and scorpions which have a dangerous sting. The Bible mentions animals that we have never seen, like dragons, unicorns, behemoth, leviathan and satyrs. Here are a few of the fearful descriptions from the book of Job. And there are more unknown creatures in the book of Revelation."Will the unicorn be willing to serve thee, or abide by thy crib? Canst thou bind the unicorn with his band in the furrow? or will he harrow the valleys after thee? Wilt thou trust him, because his strength is great? or wilt thou leave thy labour to him?" (Job 39:9-11)
"Behold now behemoth, which I made with thee; he eateth grass as an ox. Lo now, his strength is in his loins, and his force is in the navel of his belly. He moveth his tail like a cedar: ... His bones are as strong pieces of brass; his bones are like bars of iron." (Job 40:15-18)
"Canst thou draw out leviathan with an hook? ... Who can open the doors of his face? his teeth are terrible round about. His scales are his pride, shut up together as with a close seal. One is so near to another, that no air can come between them. They are joined one to another, they stick together, that they cannot be sundered. By his neesings a light doth shine, and his eyes are like the eyelids of the morning. Out of his mouth go burning lamps, and sparks of fire leap out. Out of his nostrils goeth smoke, as out of a seething pot or caldron. His breath kindleth coals, and a flame goeth out of his mouth." (Job 41:1, 14-21)
18. Can You Name 3 Stories Of Animals In The Bible?
I talked about so many dangerous animals yesterday, I didn't leave many animal stories to look at today. One that comes to mind is about Balaam and his talking donkey. Balak, the king of Moab, sent his princes to get Balaam to curse the Israelites. God told him not to go because the people were blessed. Balak sent more honorable men to Balaam and God said that he could go, but only say what God told him to say. On the way an angel of the Lord stood before him, and his donkey turned out into a field, and also crushed Balaam's foot against a wall and Balaam hit the donkey. Finally God opened the donkey's mouth and he spoke to Balaam and then God opened Balaam's eyes so he could see the angel. You can read more of this story in Numbers 22. A very familiar story about animals is when Daniel prayed and was thrown into a den of lions. God protected Daniel and the lions did not harm him. In the 14th chapter of Judges we read about Samson and he killed a lion with his hands. After a while he went back by the place and there was a swarm of bees and honey in the lion. He took the honey home to his parents but did not tell his parents where he got it. He broke his Nazarite vow by touching the carcase of the dead lion. Later, when Delilah betrayed him and the Philistines cut his hair, another of the Nazarite vows, he lost his strength and was put in prison by the Philistines. Jesus told the parable of the lost sheep. "What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance." (Luke 15:4-7) Each one of us is just like that lost sheep. "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all." (Isaiah 53:6) The Lord Jesus is our Good Shepherd. "11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.
13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.
14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.
27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand." (John 10:11-15 & 27-29)
19. Can You Name 3 People In The Bible Whose Names Begin With "J"?
Today we are looking at the letter "J". There are so many people in the Bible whose names begin with "J" that I am going to give the clues and you can guess who they are. The answers are at the end. 1. He is God's Son who came to die for our sins.
2. He tried to run from God and was swallowed by a whale.
3. He was, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight" and he baptized Jesus.
4. He lost his children, his wealth, and even his health, but he could still say, "I know that my redeemer liveth."
5. He was one of the twelve disciples, but he betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver.
6. After the death of Moses, he led the Children of Israel into the Promised Land.
7. These two disciples were called, "The sons of thunder" by Jesus.
8. His father, Israel, loved him more than all his sons and gave him a coat of many colors.
9. He wrote a book of only one chapter exhorting the believers to "contend for the faith."
10. He carried baby Jesus and Mary to escape from King Herod.
11. She was a wicked queen and wife of King Ahab.
12. He prayed, "Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me!" And God granted him that which he requested.
13. He was the brother of Esau and his name was later changed to Israel.
14. He became king over ten tribes while Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, reigned in Jerusalem.
15. She was the mother of Aaron, Miriam, and Moses.
16. He was eight years old when he became king in Jerusalem and "he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD."
17. He was the father of David.
18. He was the son of King Saul, and friend of David.
19. He wrote a book of prophecy and the book of Lamentations and is often called, "The weeping prophet."
20. His twelve year old daughter died and Jesus brought her back to life.
21. The name given to Solomon by Nathan the prophet.
22. She defeated Sisera in the battle against the Canaanites.
23. He was one of the twelve sons of Israel.
24. She was a daughter of Job.
25. He was the father-in-law of Moses.
26. Paul told Timothy that these two men "withstood Moses".
27. The name given to Giddeon after he threw down Baal's altar.
28. He was captain of the host when David was king.
29. She went to the empty tomb with Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James.
30. He was the father of all such who handle the harp and organ.
Answers:
1. Jesus 2. Jonah 3. John the Baptist 4. Job 5. Judas Iscariot 6. Joshua 7. James and John 8. Joseph 9. Jude 10. Joseph 11. Jezebel 12. Jabez 13. Jacob 14. Jeroboam 15. Jochebed 16. Josiah 17. Jesse 18. Jonathan 19. Jeremiah 20. Jairus 21. Jedidiah 22. Jael 23. Judah 24. Jemima 25. Jethro 26. Jannes and Jambres 27. Jerubbaal 28. Joab 29. Joanna 30. Jubal
20. Can You Name 3 Instruments That Made Music In The Bible?
Music has been around since the dawn of creation. We read in Job 38:7, "When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?" Scientists have now discovered that the stars do indeed make music. Musical instruments are mentioned as far back as Genesis 4:13. Among the descendents of Cain we read of "Jubal: he was the father of all such as handle the harp and organ." Music became a part of worship and there were "singers, chief of the fathers of the Levites, ... for they were employed in that work day and night." (I Chronicles 9:33) I Kings 4:32 tells us that Solomon wrote 1005 songs. The Israelites shook the earth with their music. "And all the people came up after him, and the people piped with pipes, and rejoiced with great joy, so that the earth rent with the sound of them." (I Kings 1:40) They were so well known for their music that when the Babylonians took them as captives they wanted to hear them sing. "By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion. We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof. For there they that carried us away captive required of us a song; and they that wasted us required of us mirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion. How shall we sing the LORD'S song in a strange land?" (Psalm 137:1-4) There were instruments that we know, and some we don't, cymbals, pipes, trumpets, timbrels, viols, cornets, flutes, harps, sackbuts, psalteries, and dulcimers. We see most of these instruments in Daniel 3:14-18. "14 Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up?
15 Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?
16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.
17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.
18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up." (Daniel 3:14-18)
The angels welcomed the birth of Jesus with praise in Luke 2:13-14. "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." And the book of Revelation tells us that there will be harps and singing in heaven. So get used to it now... "O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth. Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods." (Psalms 96:1-4)21. Can You Name 3 Miracles You Wish You Could Have Seen?
My Mom taught Sunday School when I was small and every Saturday night she would get out her flannel board people and tell my sisters and me the Bible story. When I went to my grandmother's house I liked to look through all the old Sunday School cards that hung in a cloth bag on the back of the little rocking chair. I became very familiar with some of the Bible stories at an early age and there were some that I wished I could have seen. I have often thought of how wonderful it would have been to go with the shepherds to the stable and see Baby Jesus in the manger. I would like to have seen the caravan of wise men opening their gifts to present to this new born King. These are scenes that we enjoy watching in plays every Christmas season. I am blessed to be born in this modern age with all the conveniences we have and I would not want to go back in time, but here are some miracles in the Bible that I would liked to have seen.The multitudes of Israelites going through the walls of the Red Sea. I wonder if they could see the fish and sea life as we see it behind the glass walls at aquariums.The sun going backward for King Hezekiah. I wonder if all the people realized that day was longer.Jesus feeding the 5,000 men, plus women and children. How great it would have been to hear Him speak and then watch Him break the bread and fish for the multitude.Jesus opening blinded eyes and healing those who came to Him. I am touched by those who are hurting and it would be such a great feeling to rejoice with them.Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego walking with the Lord in the fiery furnace. Can you imagine how King Nebuchadnezzar and his people must have responded to this great miracle?Elijah going to heaven in a chariot of fire with horses of fire. The door opening to the ark and all the animals rushing out into the fresh air to make new homes.These are a few of the miracles I did not get to see. But I can turn to the book of Revelation and read about the new Jerusalem coming down from heaven and the new heaven and new earth and I will get to see that magnificant sight. In fact, I will live eternally in the home my Lord is preparing for me and I will walk on those streets of gold and see those gates of pearl. I will talk with my Savior and praise Him for ever. I want to meet Daniel, Moses, Hannah, Ruth, Mary, Paul, Joshua, Samuel, and so many others that I have been reading about for all these years. God is real! God's Word is true! His love is everlasting! And one day I will get to bow at His feet and thank Him for all He has done for me. 22. Can You Name 3 Places Described In The 23rd Psalm?
We are in the midst of summer and many have taken vacations, going to the mountains, to the coast, and the many places in between. Today I want to imagine that we are with David, watching his father's sheep on a hillside outside Bethlehem. Let's see what this "sweet psalmist of Israel" has to say about the Good Shepherd and His ever abiding presence with him."1 <<A Psalm of David.>> The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever."
First we see the "green pastures". Jesus may have been sitting on a hillside much like the one where David fed the sheep when He taught the people. "Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?... Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind... your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." (Portions of Luke 12:24-32) The Good Shepherd can lead us to green pastures where He supplies all our needs.Next we come to the "still waters". Again I think of the Words of Jesus as found in Mark 4:39. "And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm." Jesus can calm the storms in our lives and lead us to still waters. In Psalm 23:3 we are led in the "paths of righteousness". We can find these paths of righteousness through God's Word. "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." (Matthew 5:6) "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:" (II Timothy 3:16) In Psalm 23:4 we find that the Lord has promised to go with us "through the valley of the shadow of death". What a great promise in the Lord's parting Words before He went up in the clouds after the resurrection, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:20) I close with the last verse, Psalm 23:6. "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever." For this promise I turn to John 14:1-3. "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." We can gather together and worship down here, but nothing can compare to our heavenly home where we can live with the Lord forever! Is the Lord Jesus Christ your Good Shepherd?23. Can You Name 3 Stories About A Child In The Bible?
I always enjoy visits by my children and their families. When we sit and talk we usually bring toys in the room we are in and the little ones play and stay close by. This has always worked until Maggie came along. As soon as she could crawl, down the hall she went, off to explore. Now she is 20 months old and it is sometimes hard to keep up with her. One day last week she came up to me with something white around her mouth. We had just finished eating so she was not hungry but it was clear she was eating something. "Maggie, what are you eating?" I asked as I rubbed some of the white stuff between my fingers. "Are you eating soap?" She just grinned and said, "Yeah" shaking her entire body as her head bobbed up and down. "You are not supposed to eat soap." But she just grinned. If you have read very many of my devotionals you have probably noticed that I like to tell little stories like this about my grandchildren. There are a few stories about children in the Bible. Can you name 3?Let's begin with stories about babies. Genesis 25:22 tells us that Jacob and Esau struggled in the womb before they were born. Elisabeth said that John leaped in her womb for joy when she heard the salutation of Mary, the mother of Jesus. (Luke 1:44) Every Christmas we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, born in a stable because there was no room for them in the inn. He was visited by lowly shepherds, and distinguished wise men from the east. Next, we have the story of baby Moses, whom Jochebed hid for three months then put him in a little ark of bulrushes where he was hidden until the daughter of Pharaoh found him. The princess paid her to take care of the baby until he was old enough to go to the palace. I like the story of little Samuel. Hannah prayed for a son and when Samuel was weaned she took him to the temple and gave him to the Lord just as she had vowed. Every year she took him a new little coat. The Lord called Samuel and spoke to him when he was just a child. In II Kings 5 we read about a little maid who had been taken captive. She tells her mistress that there is a prophet in the land of Israel who could recover her husband Naaman of his leprosy. She was a child taken to be a servant in a strange land but she had faith in God. Another story about Elisha the prophet is found in II Kings 4 when the Shunammite's son died and Elisha brought him back to life. Jairus' daughter was 12 years old when Jesus brought her back to life. Jehoash was only 7 years old when he began to reign as king and Josiah was 8 years old when he began to reign. David was just a young shepherd boy when he slew Goliath with a sling and a stone. Daniel was a young boy when he was carried away captive into Babylon, yet he purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself. His three friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were thrown into a fiery furnace when they stayed faithful to God and He delivered them in the fire. I close with the only story we have of Jesus as a young boy."41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.
42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.
43 And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.
44 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.
45 And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.
46 And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.
47 And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.
48 And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.
49 And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?
50 And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.
51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.
52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man." (Luke 2:41-52)
24. Can You Name 3 Ways People Travelled In The Bible?
We had to run a few errands today and with the temperature close to 100 degrees we were glad to have air conditioning in the truck. People often complain about the price of gas, but we are blessed to have vehicles to drive from place to place. My grandmother often told me about moving to her house with a horse drawn wagon when she was a small girl. She said that the first time she and her sister saw a plane fly overhead they ran and hid under a large tree because they were afraid it would fall on them. In my lifetime I saw rockets fly to the moon. Travel has come a long way in the last 150 years. Let's look at the ways people travelled in the Bible.The first way people travelled was by foot. Today people walk for fun, for exercise, or for health reasons, but in the Bible messengers often ran on foot. When King David's son, Absalom, was killed in battle messengers ran to bear the news. "And the watchman said, Me thinketh the running of the foremost is like the running of Ahimaaz the son of Zadok. And the king said, He is a good man, and cometh with good tidings. And Ahimaaz called, and said unto the king, All is well. And he fell down to the earth upon his face before the king, and said, Blessed be the LORD thy God, which hath delivered up the men that lifted up their hand against my lord the king." (II Samuel 18:27-28) The watchman on the wall could tell who the messanger was by the way he ran. In 1 Kings 18:46 we see that the prophet Elijah outran King Ahab's chariot. "And the hand of the LORD was on Elijah; and he girded up his loins, and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel." Noah and his family were saved from the flood on the ark. There are many examples of boats and ships in the Bible and even a ferry. Abraham's servant travelled with camels to get a wife, Rebekah, for Isaac. (Genesis 24) Pharoah told Joseph to send wagons from Egypt for his father, Israel, and family. (Genesis 45) When the Children of Israel were finally able to go free from Egypt, Pharaoh pursued after them with chariots and horses. (Exodus 14) Judges 10:4 tells us that Jair was a judge who had thirty sons who rode on thirty donkey colts. We also read of carriages in the Bible. And in the book of Jonah we find a man that travelled by whale.25. Can You Name 3 Occupations In The Bible?
What kind of job would you have had if you lived in Bible days? Life was very different back then and many of the types of employment today were not possible because there were no electronics, not even electricity or modern motors. People had to work the ground to raise food for their families and they probably made most of their clothes and tools they needed. Let's look at some of the occupations we find in the Bible. Among the men we find prophets, from Abraham in Genesis to the prophets in Revelation, magicians who stood against Moses to the wise men who followed the star to see the Christ Child. God used shepherds, fishermen, priests, preachers, and even tax collectors and kings to perform His will. There are physicians and lawyers, sailors and soldiers, butlers and cupbearers, and watchmen high above the walls. Some had jobs that people still work at today, as the potters, carpenters, barbers, deputies, masons, and teachers.Now let's look at the role of women in the Bible. Paul wrote to Titus that the aged women were to teach the younger women to love their husbands and their children and to be keepers at home (among other things.) (Titus 2:3-5) This took in a wide range of responsibilities but these were not the only things women in the Bible did. We find midwives, nurses, maids, and even queens. In Exodus 35:25 the women helped prepare what was needed for the tabernacle. "And all the women that were wise hearted did spin with their hands, and brought that which they had spun, both of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine linen. And all the women whose heart stirred them up in wisdom spun goats' hair." When Israel asked for a king, Samuel warned, "And he will take your daughters to be confectionaries, and to be cooks, and to be bakers." (I Samuel 8:13) Rachel kept her father's sheep, Ruth was a reaper, and Lydia was a seller of purple. In the description of a virtuous woman in Proverbs 31 we find that her jobs are many."13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
14 She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her."
26. Can You Name 3 Pieces Of The Whole Armor Of God?
When the young shepherd boy, David, stood against the giant Philistine he said, "Is there not a cause?" (I Samuel 17:29) There is still a cause today. A cause for righteousness. Moses' last words to the Children of Israel encouraged them for the battle. "Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee." (Deuteronomy 31:6) As the Apostle Paul neared the end of his life he said, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:" (II Timothy 4:7) He stayed true to the faith until the end. There are many "powers" fighting against Christianity today, but Paul tells us how we can "Put on the whole armour of God" and stand for God. Let's finish right!"10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;" (Ephesians 6:10-18)
27. Can You Name 3 Modern Inventions That People Did Not Have In Bible Days?
My washing machine broke down and I remember well the days when I was a little girl and Mom had to take four little girls to the laundromat every week. So we went and bought another machine. I have heard women complain about washing clothes, but when all you do is put them into one machine and them take them out and put them in a dryer, what is there to complain about? Look back to the time when the Children of Israel came to Mount Sinai where Moses would receive the Ten Commandments. "And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to day and to morrow, and let them wash their clothes, And be ready against the third day: for the third day the LORD will come down in the sight of all the people upon mount Sinai." (Exodus 19:10-11) I can't imagine all those people (Exodus 12:37 says "about six hundred thousand, beside children") finding water and washing their clothes at the same time. I am thankful for washing machines! I am thankful that I can turn water on in my house, and I can get ice out of the refrigerator. I have an oven to cook my meals, and even a microwave to use when I am in a hurry. A few days ago we talked about the way people travelled in the Bible. You can go faster on a bike than on foot and cars travel much faster than chariots. We can fly to places that people in the Bible never knew existed. This brings me to sending news. Let's compare Esther 8:9-10 with today. "Then were the king's scribes called at that time in the third month, ... and it was written according to all that Mordecai commanded unto the Jews, and to the lieutenants, and the deputies and rulers of the provinces which are from India unto Ethiopia, an hundred twenty and seven provinces, unto every province according to the writing thereof, and unto every people after their language, and to the Jews according to their writing, and according to their language. And he wrote in the king Ahasuerus' name, and sealed it with the king's ring, and sent letters by posts on horseback, and riders on mules, camels, and young dromedaries:" Today we carry phones in our pockets and can call people on the other side of the world. We can even send photographs by phone. With computers we can send documents to other computers, which can be printed to look like the original. Take a look at Proverbs 8:12, "I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions." If people back in Solomon's day found out "witty inventions", what would they think of our inventions today? 28. Can You Name 3 Names Of Jesus?
When my children were young I liked to do things during the month of December to help them learn to appreciate the real meaning of Christmas. One year we looked at one of the names of Jesus each day and made ornaments for the tree. For "King of Kings" we made crowns out of gold Christmas paper. "Branch" was exemplified by Cinnamon sticks with ribbon bows tied around them. We made small wreaths out of grape vines for the "Vine". I found a recipe for bread dough and we made tiny loaves of bread and put them in miniature baskets for "Bread of Life". We made little sheep for "Lamb of God" and silver aluminum foil stars for "Star out of Jacob". The children also enjoyed making paper chains with the names of Jesus. They wrote the name for the day on brightly colored paper strips and we taped them together to make chains for the tree. Let's look at a few of the scriptures that describe more of the names of Jesus. "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:9-11)"I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty." Revelation 1:8
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." John1:1
"Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." Isaiah 7:14
"I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images." Isaiah 42:8
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6
"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." John 14:6
"Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." John 8:12
"I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep." John 10:11-15
"And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea Philippi: and by the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do men say that I am? And they answered, John the Baptist: but some say, Elias; and others, One of the prophets. And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto him, Thou art the Christ." Mark 8:27-29
29. Can You Name 3 Of The Times Found In Ecclesiastes 3?
Today we celebrated my Father-in-law's 84th birthday. It was a happy time with all his children, grandchildren, their spouses, and even the great-grandchildren there. It is wonderful to share joyful times together, but sometimes we go through sad times, and it is great to have someone to share those times with as well. I know a lot of people who are going through hard times right now. It reminds me of the four little words that are in 452 verses, "it came to pass". When the hard times come, remember these four little words, "it came... to pass." So many things that discourage us down here won't even be remembered in heaven. It will pass. Just as the Lord promised in Luke 21:33, "Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away." As we look at the scriptures found in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 we see many contrasts. For the joyful times, there are corresponding sad times, but remember, they will all pass away."1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace."
30. Can You Name 3 People Who Made Choices In The Bible?
When we are young we often wish for the day when we will get to make our own choices. Then, as more and more life altering decisions come our way, we regret many choices made without hesitation and prayer. The truth is, we often make wrong choices. Sometimes they may be quickly forgotten and possibly forgiven, but there are other times when wrong choices change our lives forever. Let's look at some people in the Bible and the choices they made.I want to begin with good choices. The first one that comes to mind is Joshua 24:15. "And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." When a person chooses to trust the Lord Jesus and serve the only living God it not only makes a difference in this life, but determines the outcome for eternity. Salvation is a choice, and someone who puts off making the choice to accept God's gift of life, is actually choosing death. I want to be like Joshua and choose to serve the Lord! Ruth also made the choice to go with Naomi and serve God. "And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:" (Ruth 1:16) Moses was brought up in the Egyptian palace, but he also chose his people and their God. "By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward." (Hebrews 11:24-26) Our last example shows us that even young people can make the right choise to serve God. "But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself." (Daniel 1:8)The Bible is a book of truth and there are many examples of people who made the wrong choice. The stories of their lives are not covered over with rose colored glasses, but given to us so that we can learn from their mistakes and seek the Lord for direction. The first ones to make the wrong choice were Adam and Eve. God gave them everything that was good and yet they chose evil. That proves that just placing a person in the right environment does not make that person a good and holy individual. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" (Romans 3:23) Our next example shows that just knowing who Jesus is does not save a person. Judas Iscariot followed the Lord with the other eleven apostles, but he never knew the Lord as his Savior. "And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them." (Mark 14:10) He betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. The rich young ruler asked Jesus what good thing he could do to have eternal life and speaking of the commandments he said, "All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions." (Matthew 19:20-22) He traded life eternal for earthly riches. Jesus asked the question, "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matthew 16:26) I end with the sad choice of King Agrippa. If he did not go on to make the right choice, his torment is made worse by that little word, "almost", ringing in his ears night and day. How many people are in hell today that "almost" made the right choice to follow Jesus? I hope and pray that you will make the right choice today and ask the Lord to forgive you, cleanse you, and save you."24 And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.
25 But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.
26 For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner.
27 King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.
28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian." (Acts 26:24-28)
31. Can You Name 3 Books Of The Bible That Begin With The Letter "E"?
This is a random sort of question, with only six definite answers. Let's look at these six books.Exodus - In the book of Genesis the Children of Israel went into Egypt and in the book of Exodus, after about 400 years, they finally escaped. They were in bondage and the Lord delivered them out from under the hand of Pharaoh with the leadership of Moses. The miracles and plagues on Egypt make for very interesting reading. Chapter 20 has the Ten Commandments, and other laws are outlined throughout the book. Directions are also given for the ark of the covenant, the altar, the Tabernacle and the golden tools used for service.
Ezra - The Children of Israel served idols and were taken into bondage time and time again, this time into Babylon. Ezra was a scribe and a priest and a verse that describes him well is Ezra 7:10. "For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments." A remnant of the people returned to rebuild the temple at Jerusalem and this little book tells of their struggles with the enemies while they did the work.
Esther - A great story! There's King Ahasuerus who banishes the queen and chooses a new queen, Esther, who he doesn't know is a Jew. Then there's wicked Haman who builds a gallows 50 feet high to hang Mordecai, who raised Esther when her parents died. Because Mordecai saved the life of the king, Haman has to go before him through the city and honor him. At the banquet Esther prepared she begs the king to save her people from wicked Haman and he is hanged on his own gallows. But the laws of the Medes and Persians could not be changed, so how will the lives of the Jews be spared?
Ecclesiastes - This book was written by King Solomon, the wisest man, as he looked back over his life. He had discovered that life without God is "Vanity of vanities." He tells of the times of life in chapter 3 and gives this advice to the readers, "Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;" (Ecclesiastes 12:1) The book ends, "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil." (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)
Ezekiel - Ezekiel was a prophet who was carried away to Babylon. He had visions of God's glory and prophesied of the coming judgment to many of the surrounding countries. Chapter 37 tells of the vision of the valley of dry bones that went together piece to piece and came to life, a symbol to Israel that God would restore their lives and place them back in their land. The book ends with the twelve tribes and the new city described in the book of Revelation.
Ephesians - The book of Ephesians was a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church at Ephesus. He encourages them to have unity as he tells them, "There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Ephesians 4:4-6) He tells them to be followers of God, and put on the whole armor of God "to stand against the wiles of the devil." (Ephesians 6:11)
32. Can You Name 3 Times When People Were Afraid In The Bible?
When our first son was about three years old and he started to be afraid at night we taught him Psalm 56:3, "What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee." This was a big help to him and he learned to trust in the Lord at an early age. There are times in our lives when we are afraid, at three, twenty-three, or fifty-three. Probably even eighty-three, but I'm not there yet, so I really can't say. People in the Bible were also afraid at times. There are many times in the Bible when an angel appeared and said, "Fear not." Jesus also said, "Fear not", and "Be not afraid." Let's look at some of the things that can cause fear in our hearts.An obvious time of fear is in battle. When the giant, Goliath, challenged the army of Israel I Samuel 17:24 tells us "And all the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him, and were sore afraid." But David had faith in God. "And David said to Saul, Let no man's heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this Philistine." (I Samuel 17:32) Another example is in Judges 7:2-3. "And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me. Now therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, Whosoever is fearful and afraid, let him return and depart early from mount Gilead. And there returned of the people twenty and two thousand; and there remained ten thousand." His army was again reduced to just 300 men and God told Gideon that if he was afraid to go down to the enemy camp and Gideon heard men in the tent say, "This is nothing else save the sword of Gideon the son of Joash, a man of Israel: for into his hand hath God delivered Midian, and all the host." (Judges 7:14)Sometimes there is fear in leadership. Moses was a great leader, but in the beginning he had several excuses for God. "And Moses said unto God, Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt?" (Exodus 3:11) After the death of Moses God chose Joshua to take his place and the Lord said, "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." (Joshua 1:9) When Saul was chosen to be the first king over Israel we are told that "...he hath hid himself among the stuff." (I Samuel 10:22)At times there are good reasons to be afraid. Sin in our lives can make us afraid. Adam and Eve were afraid after they ate the forbidden fruit and hid themselves in the garden. Jacob was afraid when he went back home because he had cheated his brother, Esau. Joseph's brothers were afraid when Joseph told them who he was because they had sold him into bondage. "And Saul was afraid of David, because the LORD was with him, and was departed from Saul." (I Samuel 18:12) Sickness and death can also make us afraid. "While he yet spake, there cometh one from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the Master. But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole." (Luke 8:49-50) Storms can bring fear, but Jesus can calm the storms and He can calm our fears. Once the disciples went from fearing the storm, to fearing the One who controls the storms. "And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?" (Mark 4:37-41) 33. Can You Name 3 Things That Were Lost In The Bible?
Today we are looking at things that were lost. I hate to lose things. I often lose my glasses because I don't wear them at the computer or to read so I take them off and when I need them I don't remember where I left them. (The only thing I would really like to lose is some weight, but that's another problem.) Losing things is such a common problem that the children of Israel had laws concerning things that were lost and found. Our first story of something that was lost is about Saul, who searched and searched for his father's donkeys. When he could not find them he went to ask Samuel, the prophet, about them. God told Samuel he was coming and that he was to be the first king of Israel. I am sure Saul was surprised when Samuel told him the donkeys that were lost three days ago had been found and that he was anointing him to be king of Israel. God used something that was lost to lead Saul to Samuel. In the 15th chapter of Luke Jesus tells of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son. There are several places in the Bible where we are referred to as lost sheep. "I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments." (Psalms 119:176) I was lost, but now I'm found. The Lord Jesus came to give His life for mine. "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all." (Isaiah 53:6) If you are lost, please turn to the Lord and ask Him to save you."11 For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.
12 How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray?
13 And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray.
14 Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish." (Matthew 18:11-14)
In closing, I want to encourage you, don't lose hope. I know many people who are struggling with hardships and sometimes it is easy to lose hope. Job lost everything he had, and at times he seems to have even lost hope. "What is my strength, that I should hope? and what is mine end, that I should prolong my life? My days are swifter than a weaver's shuttle, and are spent without hope." (Job 6:11 & 7:6) But even in all his distress Job was able to say, "For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:" (Job 19:25) After Elijah's great victory, it seems as though he lost hope for a while. "But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers." (I Kings 19:4) Did God punish Elijah for being down? No, God did not speak to Elijah through the strong wind, the earthquake, or the fire, but God spoke to him in "a still small voice" and sent the angel of the Lord to feed and care for him. Don't lose hope. Keep trusting the Lord. "Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;" (Titus 2:13)34. Can You Name 3 Things That Fell In The Bible?
Before we begin with things that fell in the Bible, I want to mention something that did not fall. In the second chapter of II Kings we read that the Lord carried Elijah to heaven in a whirlwind in a chariot of fire with horses of fire. His mantle fell and Elisha used it to part the waters of the River Jordan, just as Elijah had done. Even with this demonstration the sons of the prophet doubted the power of God. "And they said unto him, Behold now, there be with thy servants fifty strong men; let them go, we pray thee, and seek thy master: lest peradventure the Spirit of the LORD hath taken him up, and cast him upon some mountain, or into some valley. And he said, Ye shall not send. And when they urged him till he was ashamed, he said, Send. They sent therefore fifty men; and they sought three days, but found him not. And when they came again to him, (for he tarried at Jericho,) he said unto them, Did I not say unto you, Go not?" (II Kings 2:16-18) Elijah did not fall from the sky. There is an account of something falling from the sky in Acts 19:35, "And when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter?" Rain fell for the first time after Noah, his family, and the animals were safe on the ark. During the plagues on Egypt God rained down hail and thunder with fire which ran along the ground. As the Children of Israel wandered in the wilderness manna fell from heaven to feed them. The walls of Jericho fell when the Children of Israel marched around on the seventh day. A few more things that fell include the axe head that Elisha made to swim, the tower of Siloam that Jesus mentioned in His teachings, the house on the sand, and the seed in the parable of the sower.Several people in the Bible fell on their faces before the angel of the Lord: Moses, Joshua, Manoah and his wife, Ezekiel, Daniel, and John. When Jesus healed the ten lepers only one fell on his face to give thanks. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to fall down and worship the image of gold when all the people fell down as commanded by Nebuchadnezzar. Samson pulled the house down with about 3,000 Philistines on the roof and they fell to their death. Goliath fell on his face to the earth when David used his sling and a stone and had faith in God to deliver him. Eutychus fell asleep and fell out the window from the third loft while Paul was preaching. Eli fell backward from his seat when he heard the ark of God was taken in battle. There have been some mighty falls, but the greatest by far was the fall of man. Praise the Lord, He lifted me! "He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings." (Psalms 40:2) "For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:6-8)35. Can You Name 3 Fruits Of The Spirit?
I have really enjoyed our devotions for the past month, "Can You Name 3...?" The topics were varied, and I found them interesting to study. Today we ask, "Can you Name 3 Fruits of the Spirit?" “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22 & 23) Paul gives us some good advice in verse 16 of this chapter, “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” Living in this sinful world is hard. How can we show others that we are walking in the Spirit? I think others can see it by the fruit we bear. The first three on the list, love, joy, and peace, are things that show the character of our inward man. God can give us true love, true joy, and true peace that those around us can see in us even when things go wrong in our lives. We have love, joy, and peace that the world can’t understand. We feel it deep down in our soul. The next three are longsuffering, gentleness, and goodness. These are things that affect our relationship to other people. These virtues have to do with how we treat those around us. We should be patient, gentle, and good to the people we meet every day. The last three are faith, meekness, and temperance. They have to do with our walk with God. We have a Spiritual faith in God that leads us in our daily walk with Him. We should live in humbleness and meekness, for we are nothing without the grace of God. And we have temperance, letting our lives be controlled by God. I heard a preacher say once that the fruit of the Spirit is love and all the other things are different flavors of love, just like different flavors of ice cream. Make up your mind to “walk in the Spirit” so you won’t “fulfil the lust of the flesh”. 