Arise and Abide

Reading Psalms 49:1-20 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The message for the rich and the warning for those who chase riches. Considering yourself rich is always in comparison with those who have more and those who have less than you. Metrics for success. Versus 6-9 screaming JESUS! Revelation 1:18, Jesus alone holds the keys to death and the grave.

Reading Exodus 39:32-40:38 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Jumping from chapter 36 to the end of 39. Go back and read the details and instructions that the people precisely followed. People can follow instructions; we follow the LORDs instructions when we align our hearts and minds on God and God’s will be done. We get off track when get distracted by the what ifs and selfish ambition. The place of Atonement hidden in the Holy of Holies by the curtain which was torn in two when Jesus died on the Cross.

Reading Exodus 3:1-35 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The people were so moved to give, they had to be told to stop. The hearts of the people moved to supply the materials needed to make a special sanctuary for God compared to the Gold offered to make the calf. Going through the mistake helped them realize what they have in God is special.  The why is because of their hearts. Remorse’s contribution to generosity. The blessings and riches are nothing without God’s presence. There is more than enough, Christ’s sacrifice is more than enough for all of us.  

Reading Exodus 3:1-35 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. God forgave the people of Israel and repeats the instructions. The importance of keeping the Sabbath. Exodus 25:2 accept contributions from all whose hearts are moved. Exodus 25:8, build me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them. The people whose hearts are stirred, moved, willing, and generous. The time of morning turning into a time of adoration. The Spiritual gift of Teaching. The process of growing the skill didn’t come from God blessing many with the talents but a few who can reproduce the skills in others.

Reading Exodus 34:12-35 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. God reminding the people again of the terms of the covenant. God’s name being Jealous because He is jealous for His relationship with us. Wanting to be wanted. Getting a second chance with the tablets inscribed by God. 2 Corinthians 3:3. The Tablets were still breakable, but God’s plan was to write on our hearts by His Spirit, being permanent. 2 Corinthians 3:7. The presence of God in your live will change you.

Reading Exodus 34:1-11 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The weight of carrying stone tablets up a mountain. Exodus 31:18, 32:15, the original tablets were works of God and the second set Moses chiseled out of stone at God’s command. Love not returned but given to anther creates jealousy. Receiving more of God by growing in our understanding of God’s ways. Our definition of sin must go back to the origin of sin. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty (Ex.34:7) in line with Jesus’ words, “Go, and sin no more.” Romans 5:20, the Law helps us see the difference between God’s ways and our judgments of good and evil.

Reading Exodus 33:12-23 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Detailed account of the LORD speaking to Moses as one speaks to a friend. The transactional requests we make as we grow in our faith. The proof Moses is looking for is understanding. God’s heart for the people whose hearts are after God. Moses correcting himself in humility. Matthew 7:21 and God knowing Moses by name. Not wanting to go anywhere without God’s presence. Roman’s 9, God shows Mercy and Compassion on anyone He chooses, Jesus died for us all.

Reading Psalms 48:1-14 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Hearing vs. seeing for ourselves and the Journey of God becoming their own God. The disciples experience with Jesus growing in their knowledge of God and letting go of their own understanding. Making God your God vs. making God be whatever you want. God deserving of all praise. The different responses of rejoicing or running away. Struggling with meditating with ADD.  

Reading Exodus 33:7-11 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. In this time of mourning Moses still can meet with God. God would with Moses and spoke face to face. God soke to Moses and one speaks to a friend. A more intimate picture that at the burning bush.  Jacob wrestling with God Genesis 32:30. Genesis 33:11 and John 15:13. The greatness and faithfulness of God’s love.

Reading Exodus 32:30-33:6 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion.  The LORD turns from His wrath, but the relationship is strained. How an omni-present God would not go with them. The Tabernacle presence. God’s heart broken by the rebellious people. Consequences for sin. Living in our selfish nature will affect our relationships with others. How much we need Jesus and surrender to His love and His Holy Spirit. Hebrews 12:6 The Lord disciplines those He loves, all His children. John 15, the pruning by the hand of God. God faithful to His promises. Nehemiah 9:16. Remember.