Judah Captured, Afflicted and in Servitude Lamentations 1:3

As we study and learn from the words of Jeremiah about the dispersion of Jerusalem and Judah, we may be inclined to think of our own lives and wonder “what if this happened to me?” Since the once thriving city and nation was made as servants and tributaries, there is sadness throughout the land. In chapter one and verse three we see more of the characteristics of Judah's plight as we read:

Judah is gone into captivity because of affliction, and because of great servitude: she dwells among the heathen, she finds no rest: all her persecutors overtook her between the straits.

The verse begins, “Judah is gone into captivity because of affliction, and because of great servitude:” The idea within this verse is that Judah has “gone into captivity” which means “to be uncovered, disclosed, discovered or revealed”. It refers to Judah being exposed “because of affliction” or “poverty and misery”. Rather than being in a place of rule such as in the days of King David and his son Solomon, they were now in “great servitude” or “labor and work such as that of a slave”.

The verse goes on to say, “she dwells among the heathen, she finds no rest:” Where there was once great opportunities with those around her to be attuned to relational purposes and worship of God, Judah now lived with a godless nation, and the result was “she finds no rest” which means she finds no “resting place, state or condition of rest”.

Finally the verse says, “all her persecutors overtook her between the straits.” In addition to affliction, servitude, dwelling among heathens, and finding no rest, Jeremiah said “all her persecutors” or “her pursuers and those who followed and ran after her like a dog that is chased” “overtook” which means “reached, captured and obtained” her “between the straits” or while she was in “dire straits and distress”. The nation that once flourished and prospered before God Almighty was pursued and captured by a heathen nation.

What would it be like to be driven from our homes and made captive in a heathen nation? What would our attitudes be like if we were afflicted, made servants, and made to be in a place of unrest? As we consider the state of these people, let us be reminded that God Almighty had a plan that would have prevented them from experiencing these dire circumstances. If they had only listened to Jeremiah's words as he prophesied of these conditions maybe things would have been different. May we have ears to hear what God has to say to us through His Son Jesus as we think about the people of Judah in their dire straights.

Next time we will see how this captivity affected the people of Judah, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

The Weeping City Lamentations 1:2

As Jeremiah the prophet began his discourse of lament over Judah and Jerusalem, he noted the separation of them from other cities and nations. Where the people were once thriving and living abundantly they were now saddened like a widow and made to be taxpayers. In chapter one and verse two Jeremiah adds to the their description where he wrote:

She weeps sore in the night, and her tears are on her cheeks: among all her lovers she has none to comfort her: all her friends have dealt treacherously with her, they are become her enemies.

The verse begins, “She weeps sore in the night, and her tears are on her cheeks:” As Jeremiah likens Jerusalem and Judah to a person, he says “she weeps” or “bewails, mourns, and cries” during the night time. Rather than joy and laughter, there are now “tears” running down her cheeks.

The verse goes on to say, “among all her lovers she has none to comfort her:” Those who were once very close, “her lovers”, have now forsaken her. She is abandoned, left alone, and no one is there to bring comfort to her side or to be sorry for her. At one time she was thriving with those who seemed close, and now she is now desolate and without consolation from any of them.

Finally the verse says, “all her friends have dealt treacherously with her, they are become her enemies.” Not only have her lovers left her, but “all her friends” have turned against her and “dealt treacherously” which means “faithlessly, deceitfully, and offensively” with her, and those who were once close friends are now her “enemies”. At one time she had people close to her, and now she is left alone and opposed.

When we read these words of Jeremiah does the word “forsaken” come to mind? To be betrayed, forsaken, left alone, and abandoned is one of the most difficult situations for any person to endure never mind an entire city or country. As we ponder these words of Jeremiah perhaps we will think of times when our lives have been filled with weeping, tears, lack of comfort and deceit. We might even think of those who once seemed to be friends who have now forsaken us, betrayed us, and even become our enemy. We must keep in mind that God Almighty designed in His foreknowledge that we would have access to the words in this book, and in doing so He has His provision and comfort for us when we feel abandoned by all others. May the Lord Jesus continually remind us that when we seem abandoned and forsaken by everyone He would say, “I will never leave you nor forsake you”.

Next time we will see why this city is so sad, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Solitary City Lamentations 1:1

As we approach the book of Lamentations, it is good for us to consider the format and conditions of the words we are about to read. First, let's notice some interesting parts of the format. It is written by Jeremiah the prophet, and is comprised of five chapters of which the first two and the last two contain twenty-two verses. The third chapter has sixty-six. Each verse of the first, second, and fourth chapters begins with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet of which there are twenty-two, and the third chapter contains three verses for each corresponding letter. This acrostic format of poetry was often used to aid in memorization of these passages. In consideration of the conditions for penning these words, let us consider chapter one and verse one where we read:

How does the city sit solitary, that was full of people! how is she become as a widow! she that was great among the nations, and princess among the provinces, how is she become tributary!

The verse begins, “How does the city sit solitary, that was full of people!” The occasion for this lament was the conquering of the Chaldeans over Judah and Jerusalem. Jeremiah wrote these words after the destruction of his country just as he prophecied in the book called after his name. Though the people of his land did not believe his words, dissolution came, and now like unto a eulogy at a funeral Jeremiah wrote his lament. The city that was once thriving with people now sits “solitary” which means “isolated, withdrawn, and separated”. Where there was once activity filled with people, there is little done there, and the people are scarce.

The verse goes on to say, “how is she become as a widow! she that was great among the nations,...” Jeremiah adds to the description of this city by comparing it to a “widow”. The sorrow that is felt by a widow is like unto no other felt by people, and although at one time Judah was known to be “great among the nations”, this country was now defeated.

Finally the verse says, “and princess among the provinces, how is she become tributary!” Rather than being exalted for the greatness of royalty and known as a “princess” among its surrounding neighbors, Jerusalem and Judah were now “become tributary” which means they have become “a gang or body of forced laborers, task-workers, a labor band, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited”. Where they once ruled, they were now servants and taxpayers. Even as King David of Israel lamented over the loss of Jonathan when he wrote:

How are the mighty fallen, and the weapons of war perished!

So does Jeremiah grieve over Judah and Jerusalem.

As we consider this first verse of Lamentations, let us be minded of three things. First, let us not simply “lament” and “grieve” over these words lest we grow deeply depressed, but rather let us see this as a loving warning. Secondly, let us be sure to find some way to relate this to Jesus Christ as “in the volume of the book it is written” of Him, and finally let us find ample examples of how to apply the teachings within this verse to our own personal lives. For example, perhaps we have places of “lament” where we once were riding high and now have been brought low. As we relate to Jeremiah's words, we may be assured of this, God the Father and Jesus Christ His Son knew this would be an important addition to the scriptures. As we walk through these words day by day, may the Lord help us to use them to draw us closer and closer to Him.

Next time we will learn more about this solitary city, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Growing in Grace and Knowledge of Jesus 2 Peter 3:18

After knowing that his time is short on the earth, the apostle Peter has dedicated some of his final written words to the edification of the church. He has told them how to grow in their faith. He has warned them of false prophets, and he has encouraged them with the knowledge of how to live in light of God's pending judgment upon the heavens and the earth. In chapter three and verse eighteen, Peter shares one final exhortation with his audience. We read:

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

The verse begins, “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” One final time Peter employs the word “but” in his writing, and we know the insertion of that word means what is about to be stated takes precedence over that which he just wrote. So we refer to his words about the“day of the Lord” and see that he desires that his readers “grow” which means “augment, increase and become greater” in two things - “in grace” and “in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ”. First he refers to “grace” which is “unmerited favor”. It is the Greek word “charis” and means “that which affords joy, pleasure, delight, sweetness, charm, loveliness, good will, loving-kindness, favor”. Secondly Peter exhorts them to grow “in the knowledge” which is the Greek word “gnosis” and means “a knowledge that signifies in general intelligence, and understanding” of Jesus Christ. This knowledge of our Lord and Savior is not only an intellectual knowledge but also an experiential understanding of Him.

The verse goes on to say, “To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.” Finally Peter knows with whom to place the credit. It is to Jesus Christ that all “glory” should be given, and note too that this is a present day and eternal charge. Peter knows that if there be any accolades and praise for any of the wonderful gifts given to him or the church they should all be accredited to Jesus Christ. His final word in this book is “Amen” which means “so be it”, “let it be so” or “so it is”, and indeed not only will it be, it is, and ever shall be.

We have come to the conclusion of Peter's words in the book of Second Peter, and as we reflect upon them, perhaps it will benefit us to reread this book once again. The exhortation, encouragement, and warnings will help us in our Christian walk. As we continue our venture to know this wonderful Creator God and His Son Jesus Christ, may the Lord frequently bring to our remembrance the words of Peter, and may He bless us with His presence at all times as we grow in our faith and trust in Him.

Next time we will begin a new book - Lamentations, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Beware Lest You Be Led Away 2 Peter 3:17

As Peter the apostle begins to wind down his final words in the book of Second Peter, he wrote of the coming judgment and dissolution of the heavens, its elements, and the earth. He asked what manner of persons his readers ought to be in light of these things, and he encouraged them to be diligent that they “be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless”. He also desired that they know that because the Lord delays His judgment does not mean He is slack in His promise but rather desires many will be saved during that postponement. In chapter three and verse seventeen Peter gives one final warning to his readers. He wrote:

You therefore, beloved, seeing you know these things before, beware lest you also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness.

The verse begins, “You therefore, beloved, seeing you know these things before,...” In conclusion-like fashion, Peter uses the word “therefore” and directs his attention to those whom he calls “beloved”. Throughout this book we can almost hear the passion Peter has for those to whom he is writing. He concludes that they already know the things of which he wrote, and his reminders serve only to enhance and encourage them as they consider those things.

The verse goes on to say, “beware lest you also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness.” Peter employs the word “beware” which means “guard, keep watch, and keep an eye upon”, and his warning considers the possibility that his readers may also be persuaded away from the truth and toward “the error of the wicked”. The idea is that they might “stray or wander” from the truth and follow as “one who breaks through the restraint of law and gratifies his lusts”. In doing so they would “fall from” or “lose, perish, and be without effect” their “own steadfastness” which is their own “firm condition and mind”. No doubt Peter knew the possibility that those who are steadily strong in the faith had the possibility of being persuaded otherwise.

If we think about it for a moment, a warning such as this one comes from a loving standpoint, and the passion exhibited by the apostle Peter is like unto a loving father for his children. As we consider this “father in the faith” like warning of Peter, perhaps we should examine our own lives to be sure of our steadfastness in the truth. With the possibility of even those who are steadfast “being led away with the error of the wicked” consideration of our current state is a must. May the Lord lead us continually in our faith and trust in Him, and may we ever live within His truth.

Next time we will end the book of Second Peter with one last exhortation from Peter, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Wrestling Scriptures 2 Peter 3:16

The apostle Peter told the church that the heavens, its elements, and the earth will be dissolved in the “day of the Lord”, and they should not count God slack concerning His promises just because there is a delay. He told his readers “the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation;”, and he made reference to Paul's writings as a further reference to this truth. In chapter three and verse sixteen Peter adds to his comments upon Paul's words. We read:

As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

The verse begins, “As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things;” Peter assures those who read or hear his words will know that Paul wrote of these last day events as well. By telling them “as also in all his epistles” Peter would encourage church members to see what Paul spoke about these end time prophecies.

The verse goes on to say, “in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures,...” No doubt Peter read the words of Paul and found some of them “hard to be understood” or perhaps difficult to comprehend, but they were nonetheless true. Those who were “unlearned” or “ignorant” and those who were “unstable” which means “unsteadfast” would “wrest” or “twist, turn awry, torture, put to the rack, pervert, and be like one who wrests or tortures language in a false sense”. In other words rather than read and believe Paul's words and “the other scriptures” they twist them to meet their own interpretations of them. They pervert the scriptures to meet with their own personal agendas.

Finally the verse says, “unto their own destruction.” Peter ends this verse by declaring the fate of those who do such things with the scriptures. It will be “unto their own destruction” or “destroying, perishing, and ruin” and infers “the destruction which consists of eternal misery in hell”. This is no doubt an extreme warning reckoned by Peter as he wrote these words. Those who twist the scriptures to make them fit their own ways, attitudes and actions should beware of doing so lest it lead them to their own demise.

Although Peter has identified a group of people who “wrest” the scriptures, we should take time to examine our own lives to be sure we do not do the same. When we read the Bible we must be careful to disallow our own thoughts and ideas to become agents of interpretation. The best commentary upon the Bible is the Bible, and if we are unsure or think without clarity about a particular verse we should look further into that verse to be sure we align with God. We do not want to become those who “wrest” the scriptures unto our “own destruction”, and by taking the time to understand the scriptures we can, wait upon understanding for scriptures we cannot, and being steady in our growing in understanding we will avoid being those who twist the scriptures to our own advantage and eventual destruction.

Next time we will see one final warning from Peter, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

The Longsuffering of Our Lord 2 Peter 3:15

The apostle Peter has been very clear about a prophecy concerning the dissolving of the heavens, it's elements, and the earth, and he has told his readers how they should be knowing these things shall come to pass. In chapter three and verse fifteen he tells more of the reason that the Lord seems to delay His carrying out of this promise. We read:

And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;

The verse begins, “And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation;” Peter tells his audience to “account” which means “to consider, deem, or think” that the “longsuffering” or “patience, endurance, constancy, steadfastness, perseverance, forbearance, slowness in avenging wrongs” of “our Lord is salvation” or “deliverance, preservation, and safety”. In other words, the Lord Jesus waits patiently for all who will to be saved from the destruction to come. God's desire is not to condemn mankind, but rather to save it. The gospel of John in chapter three verse seventeen tells us this:

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

As the Lord delays His dissolution of things that currently are, He is waiting for more people to come to Him and be saved.

The verse goes on to add, “even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;” It is interesting to note that Peter mentions “Paul” in this verse, and by appearance it shows that Peter read Paul's letters. Paul who was also an apostle wrote much about the salvation of man particularly in the books of Romans and Galatians but also in each of his books. Note too that Peter calls him “beloved brother” which is remarkable since at one point Paul, who was Saul at that time, persecuted the church. The very idea that Peter acknowledged Paul's words as “wisdom” but also note that he is a “beloved brother” should show Peter's readers the ability for the salvation of man to affect a person completely. Paul who was once estranged and an opponent to Christianity now was a brother and promoter of the same.

Are we longsuffering when referring to the salvation of man? Do we exhibit our Lord's patience, endurance, and forbearance with others who do not know Him as yet? Have we considered that the delay of the destruction of things as we know them may be a further opportunity for others to come to know our Savior Jesus? As we ponder these words and perhaps the “wisdom” of Paul the apostle, let us be reminded that though we may desire the Lord to hurry with His return and judgment of this world, His delay will only mean someone else comes into the kingdom of God. Maranatha, Lord Jesus.

Next time we learn more about Paul the apostle's writings, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Peace, Without Spot, Blameless 2 Peter 3:14

Since the earth, the heavens and the elements thereof will be dissolved, the apostle Peter asked his readers to consider what sort of people they should be in light of these things? He told them that the delay of God does not mean that He has forgotten or will not do as He said, but He rather has given time for all to come to repentance through His Son Jesus. In chapter three and verse fourteen Peter adds more to how his audience should be as they look for these things. He wrote:

Wherefore, beloved, seeing that you look for such things, be diligent that you may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

The verse begins, “Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things,...” Peter begins with the word “Wherefore” which means “therefore” and is a word that draws a conclusion. Whenever there is a “wherefore” in the scriptures readers should see what the “wherefore” is “therefore”. In other words, what was written just before it that should bring the reader to the conclusion that is about to be made. In this reference the audience is to consider the pending destruction of the earth, the heavens and the elements thereof. Peter wrote that they are to be in a state of expectancy, and he reference them as the “beloved” or “esteemed, dear, favored or loved”. He also presumes they are “looking for such things”.

The verse goes on to say, “be diligent that you may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.” These to whom Peter writes are to “be diligent” which means “to make haste, endeavor, give diligence to” three following traits. First, they are to be “found of him in peace”. Peace is “the tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and content with its earthly lot, of whatsoever sort that is”. Secondly, they are to be “without spot” which means they are to be “free from censure, irreproachable, free from vice, unsullied”. Finally they are to be “blameless” or “those who cannot be censored, above suspicion, clean, faultless and impeccable”. Since they “look for such things” their entire behavior should be altered by them.

When we examine our own lives in light of this verse, do we actually “look for such things” as Peter's audience was presumed to do? Are we “diligent” to be “found of him” with “peace, without spot, and blameless” as instructed by Peter? Perhaps as we consider the words of this verse we will examine our own state and realize there are some areas that need God's help to align them. How blessed we are to know that our Heavenly Father not only gave us scriptures like this through the apostle Peter, but He also stands ready to help us when we come to Him in prayer. May we seek His face and His ways as we ponder the things to come, and may he give us the peace, spotlessness, and lack of blame He desires for us to exhibit while we wait.

Next time we will see the purpose of Jesus tarrying, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

New Heavens and New Earth 2 Peter 3:13

As Peter told of the coming destruction of the heavens and the earth by fire, more than likely it stirred those who read his words. The idea was to have them consider their own attitudes and behaviors knowing that these things would come to pass. In chapter three and verse thirteen Peter gave a description of his outlook while thinking about the pending judgment. He wrote:

Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwells righteousness.

The verse begins, “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth,...” Peter started this verse with, “Nevertheless” or “but, or moreover, in light of”, and then wrote “we”, which makes reference and pays attention to both he and his readers. Peter continued with a validation of the idea he is about to present with“according to his promise”. Because God, who cannot lie, gave His word that these things would occur, they will occur. Peter said “we...look for new heavens and a new earth”. There is a sense of expectancy and assurance in Peter's words. He knows these things will happen just as God promised.

The verse goes on to say, “wherein dwells righteousness.” Peter takes special efforts to declare what the new heavens and new earth will be like. “Righteousness” or “behavior that is acceptable to God such as integrity, virtue, purity of life, correctness of thinking feeling, and acting”will be the ruling condition, and rather than the unrighteous behavior and attitudes that are often reflected in modern society, those who live within the new heavens and earth will align with God's ways and mindset.

As we consider Peter's words, we might be inclined to wonder what these new heavens and earth will be like. Will they have somewhat of the same scenery such as trees, waterfalls, etc. or will they be totally different? We don't really know for sure, but we can with confidence be assured of this – there will be God's righteousness there. That in itself should make us rejoice and give Him praise. While we ponder these things, let us be mindful of the fact that God has all these things in control, and as we align ourselves with Him, we too shall enjoy His overwhelming plan which will be filled with His goodness and right way to be.

Next time we will see how we are to be found by Jesus when He returns, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Hasting the Lord's Coming 2 Peter 3:12

During this section of scriptures within the book of Second Peter, the apostle Peter has shared about the pending judgment of the heavens and earth as we know them. He has warned that this destruction will come suddenly “like a thief in the night” and that those who observe his words should consider their manner of living. In chapter three and verse twelve Peter continues his discourse and question about how we should live as we consider these things. He wrote:

Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?

The verse begins, “Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God,...” Peter enlightens his readers as to how they should be knowing that Jesus' return is imminent. He said first, they should be “looking for” which is the Greek word “prosdokaō” and means “to expect (whether in thought, in hope, or in fear), to look for, wait for” “the coming of the day of God”. Those who are believers in Jesus Christ should be in a constant state of looking for the coming day of God. There should be an expectant attitude and demeanor toward His coming, and the behavior of the Christian should reflect that he or she expects Jesus to arrive at any time. Secondly Peter adds “hasting” which is the Greek word “speudo” and means “to haste, make haste, to desire earnestly”. Not only should there be a state of expectancy, but there should be a constant passion and desire for Jesus to return soon. Those to whom Peter wrote in his day were no doubt people who expected Jesus to return as much as we do currently.

The verse goes on to say, “wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?” In a conclusive fashion to the question that began in verse eleven, Peter notes once again the dissolving of the heavens by fire and the melting of the elements with “fervent heat”. As though his readers were not motivated enough to continue in the faith of Jesus Christ, Peter desires that they take seriously his forecast of the destruction of not only earthly things but the heavens and their elements as well. As we stated earlier, “it's all going to burn” should be the believer's anthem, and as they continue in that vein they must consider their own ways as they live day to day.

When we think about the coming of God and the destruction of the heavens, its elements, and the earth, we would do best to be in a state of expectancy for the Lord to return. Our attitudes and behaviors reveal whether we truly believe He will return or not. In light of this coming judgment, perhaps there are a few areas within our lives that need attention. Maybe our best position in advance of these judgments would be to put ourselves before the Lord who will perform these things and ask Him to reveal in us any way, attitude, behavior or action that is contrary to Him. As the Psalmist wrote in Psalm one hundred and thirty-nine and verses twenty-three and twenty-four:

Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Next time we will learn about a new heavens and a new earth, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

How Should We Be? 2 Peter 3:11

Peter the apostle warned his readers that the heavens, its elements, and the earth were going to melt away with a fervent heat in “the day of the Lord”. In light of this ominous alert, how should we be in this world? In chapter three and verse eleven Peter begins his answer to that question. He wrote:

Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in all holy conversation and godliness,

The verse begins, “Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved,” Peter draws his audience's attention toward the impact of this great promise of destruction. He says in a conclusion like way, “Seeing” or “since, because of, on account of” the fact that “all these things” - the earth, the heavens and the works and elements within them, will be destroyed, “dissolved”, then what? Because these cataclysmic events will occur, it should stir those who think about them for any time at all.

The verse goes on to say, “what manner of persons ought you to be in all holy conversation and godliness,” Peter's question references the behavior and attitudes of those who know these things. He asks “what manner of persons” or what kind of people “ought” we to be in “holy conversation” which is “holy living, conduct, behavior and deportment”? He adds “and godliness” which is “reverence, respect, and piety toward God.” Because “day of the Lord” will come as sudden as a “thief in the night” and without warning, every action, every word, and every attitude should come under scrutiny.

The idea that the Lord could return in a moment's time should make everyone who thinks about it examine their lives. Are their attitudes that we would be embarrassed to have when He returns? Are there certain behaviors, actions or words with which we would not like to be engaged should His coming be imminent? As we ponder the significance of Peter's words to the church, perhaps it will be a good reminder to examine ourselves once again and be sure that we are in alignment with God when the timing of this things comes to pass.

Next time we will see learn more of the motivation to have holy conversation and godliness, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

As a Thief in the Night 2 Peter 3:10

We have learned from Peter in this second book called by his name that “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” Though God's appearance seems to be delayed, He will perform that which He said He would do, and He only postpones because He is giving an extended time for people to have a relationship with Him. In chapter three and verse ten Peter informs his readers of how suddenly the “day of the Lord” will come. He wrote:

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

The verse begins, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night;” Once again we see how Peter uses the word “But” to begin this sentence. We know this means that what is about to be said takes precedence over what was just stated. As an example of the timing for “the day of the Lord” which is the time when Jesus Christ comes to the earth again to destroy and remake it, Peter likens Jesus' return to “a thief in the night”. The thief comes unexpectedly and suddenly. Those who are burglarized are unaware of the thief's arrival lest they would be waiting for him. Though the Lord tarries and delays His appearance, when He does come it will be all the sudden and immediate.

The verse goes on to say, “in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat,” The result of this “day of the Lord” will be that the “heavens” and the “elements” shall be affected by it. The heavens “shall pass away” or “perish” with a “great noise” which means “a loud or confusing” sound. Peter wants his readers to know that the heavens and the elements in their present state will be dissolved with a “fervent heat” accompanied by a sudden, loud, and great noise.

Finally the verse says, “the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” After the description of the heavens and the elements melting with a fervent heat, Peter says that “the earth” and “the works” within it shall be burned up as well. All the wonderful things will be destroyed, and all the wicked things too. All the valuable things will burn, and all the invaluable things will too. This “day of the Lord” of which Peter speaks will be an ominous “day” that leads to the destruction of not only the heavens and the elements thereof, but also the earth and all its contents.

As we think about this awesome verse, we should have at least two reactions. The first will be one of great awe and respect for the Lord Jesus in whom we love and serve, and the second is to really understand the value of the temporal things. Everything we have materially one day will burn. No matter how new it is, how valuable it is, how old it is or how invaluable it is, it is all going to burn. This should help us to keep in perspective the things of the earth in which we place such high regard. Paul the apostle said it best in the book of Second Corinthians chapter four and verse eighteen:

While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

Let this ever be our mantra as we continue in this life until the day the Lord returns.

Next time we will see how we should be because of these things, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

The Lord is Not Slack 2 Peter 3:9

In sharing about “scoffers” who would make their appearances in the last days, the apostle Peter used creation, the flood during Noah's day, and the preservation of the present earth for judgment to demonstrate God's ability to keep His promises. God does not keep time as we do because a thousand years is unto Him as one day, and one day is as a thousand years. In chapter three and verse nine Peter confirms that although it appears that God delays in keeping His promises, He is not slack in doing so. We read:

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

The verse begins, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness;” Peter wants to assure his readers that God is not “slack” which means “to delay, be slow, retard, tarry or loiter” when it comes to His promises. The promise of which Peter concerns himself is the judgment of the earth in the last days. “Some men” think that because things continue as they are God is not going to destroy the earth. Because there is no immediate action from God concerning this promise, they believe God to be loitering.

The verse continues, “but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish,...” There is a reason why God delays His judgment upon the earth – He is “longsuffering” which means “to be o f a long spirit, not to lose heart, to persevere patiently and bravely in enduring misfortunes and troubles”. It means God is “slow to anger, slow to punish, mild, and slow to avenging” even though He has the power to do so. According to Peter, God is “not willing that any should perish” which demonstrates that God does not desire that anyone be destroyed. His delay is because of His mighty grace, and He desires that everyone have a chance to be in fellowship with Him.

Finally the verse says, “but that all should come to repentance.” Peter notes that God desires all people to “come to repentance” which means “a change of mind, as it appears to one who repents, of a purpose he has formed or of something he has done”. Though God has promised destruction by fire to the earth as we know it, He is passionate about people being in a relationship with Him before He does so.

Sometimes we may think that the delays of God are the “okays” of God. In other words, because God does not bring immediate judgment as He has promised, we might be inclined to think that God does not see, or that He does not care, or even worse that He approves of behavior that is contrary to Him. Though there are “scoffers” in the world, God still desires them to repent. Though there are those who are opposed to Him who live, God still gave His Son Jesus to die upon the cross for their sins. God is indeed “longsuffering” with us, and because it appears that He delays, it only means that He is giving more time for people to come unto Him.

Next time we will see how God keeps his promises, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

 

Until tomorrow...there is more...

 

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore