Wisdom-Trek ©

Putnam Church Message – 08/18/2024

Last week, we learned to keep your discernment high by Going to your Knees, Going to the Word, and Going to the Wise because Discernment is better caught than taught. We must stay close to those seasoned saints, the proven men and women overflowing with wisdom.

Today’s passage is 2 Peter 3:1-7, on page 1896 of your Pew Bibles. Because of the complexities of the subject matter, I will read it from the NLT for clarity of flow.

As the menacing clouds begin to break and Peter’s stormy condemnation of false teachers subsides, a beam of light pierces the gloominess. This great apostle decides it’s now time to inject a ray of hope into his otherwise frightening portrayal of the future. Though the threat of false teachers is real and imminent, he wants us to lift our eyes beyond the immediate landscape and see the bright horizon that is yet to come. It’s important to remember that between the rough period of false prophets and the coming restoration of creation, two unforgettable events intervene.

Much of the evangelical teaching during the late 20th century focused on a period of Great Tribulation, by which the present world and all its wickedness will be destroyed,| and then the return of Christ, by which a new era of righteousness will begin. We must be careful not to be too dogmatic about the events preceding Christ’s return to earth. The study of the ‘end times’ is called escatology, and views can vary widely on what will take place. We know Christ will return to earth at some point, judge those who have rejected Him, and remake the earth into a global Eden as he finalizes the Kingdom of God. Heaven and earth will be joined at that point, our dwelling place for all eternity.

This leads to Peter’s finale in chapter 3. He further develops the issue of the end times,>which he mentioned several times in the first two chapters. In his final written words to the churches before his martyrdom, Peter answers, “How will all this end?” (1) He gives us a final warning: avoid worldly corruption and false teachers (3:11, 17-18). (2) He presents a last reminder: God’s testimony is trustworthy (3:1-2). (3) He proclaims a glorious promise: a new creation is coming in which righteousness dwells (3:13).

After writing a torrential lecture against the despicable doctrines and practices of false teachers in chapter 2, I can imagine Peter taking a break to calm his Galilean fury. Standing up and taking a deep breath, he closes his eyes, reviews what he wrote in his first letter, and considers the ground he has already covered in this second. Then, with a bold resolve, he addresses his readers with a term of endearment, “dear friends” (agapêtos). The word hasn’t appeared in this letter since 1:17, but he will repeat it to the churches four more times in his final written words.

Peter clearly states his purpose for writing this second letter: to stimulate your wholesome thinking and refresh your memory. (3:1) He writes to those already characterized by wholesome thinking, free from deception and corruption. They were “innocent” in thought and deed. But innocent doesn’t imply impervious. These believers needed to stay on the alert. ->This reminds me of the mood in the United States in the months following the horrific events of 9 /11. You remember. Fighters patrolled the skies. Police were on constant alert. Nobody dared ignore suspicious activity. And airline security was at its all-time peak. Everybody knew the threat of unexpected attack was real—and pervasive. It could come at any time, anywhere, from anybody. But as months and years separated Americans from those devastating events, the original vigilance cooled—then virtually chilled. Few people knew what threat level the Department of Homeland Security had set, and later on, most didn’t care. Countless grew tired of hearing about terrorist cells. And many grew weary of military actions against havens of terrorism worldwide. Though nobody wanted their country to be attacked again, few kept up the state of alert necessary to prevent it. Vigilance has waned. We’re back to business as usual.

The same thing happened in Peter’s day concerning false teachers. Intellectually, they knew the dangers, risks, and threats. And they had kept themselves pure and undefiled. But they needed a reminder, a wake-up call—something to stir them up and sound the alarm again. Peter knew the first waves of deception had come—and his readers had maintained their sincerity. But a tidal wave of truth-twisters was about to arrive, and they needed to brace themselves for the devastating blow.

Peter spells out precisely what he wants his readers to keep at the forefront of their minds in light of the lingering threat of false teachers. First, we should remember the words spoken beforehand by the prophets (3:2). This includes all of the Old Testament writings. With this statement, Peter returns to the topic he introduced in 1:19-21. There, he urged his readers to “pay close attention” to the prophetic word “like a lamp shining in a dark place” (1:19). That shining lamp had been lit by the Holy Spirit, who moved the authors of Scripture to compose—without error—God’s written and inspired Word. We are told that these prophetic writings looked forward to the coming of Christ. Christ Himself said, You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! (John 5:39). In fact, the writings of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms all point ahead to Jesus Christ (Luke 24:27,44; John 1:45; Acts 28:23; Rom. 1:1-4; 1 Cor. 15:3-4).

Second, we should remember the commands given by the Savior (3:2). Most of these words come to us through the written Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Jesus called His hearers first and foremost to a belief in Him as equal to the Father: Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. (John 14:1). Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. (John 14:6). Jesus also reiterated the Old Testament command, ‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’(Matt. 22:37). He also commanded horizontal love for both our neighbors in general (Matt. 22:39) and fellow believers in particular (John 13:34).

Third, implied in Peter’s reminder is a call to remember the teaching of the apostles (2 Pet. 3:2). The apostolic doctrine formed the firm foundation of the church, of which Christ is the cornerstone (Eph. 2:20). So, their ministry was not to point to themselves, but back to Christ’s person, work, and words. At the same time, Jesus’ own words point forward to His second coming, when His work will be fulfilled, and His glorious person will be universally revealed.

Peter’s brief statement in 3:2 encompasses the entire canon of the Old and New Testaments—the prophets, Jesus, and the apostles. No other source of truth has the power to give us lasting stability and constant assurance. After this strong reminder for the godly to stand firm on the teachings of Scripture as the foundation for their faith, Peter offers a series of sober warnings to the ungodly. In 3:3-7, he first communicates something to know about the present (3:3-4), something to remember about the past (3:5-6), and something to count on in the future (3:7).

First, Peter informs us of something to know about the present. He wrote that in the last days, scoffers will come, mocking the truth and following their desires. (3:3). From Peter’s perspective, this statement was prophetic>near the end of his earthly life. Yes, false prophets had already begun challenging the apostles and offering their own counterfeit Christ. Many believers had already abandoned the faith, led astray by heresy,>lust,>or greed. But Peter had in mind a different class of contrarian —those who would reject the faith by mocking, teasing, and poking fun at its claims. Those mentioned in Chapter 2 were the false believers who claimed to be believers but were not. Those described in Chapter 3 are the cynical scoffers who make fun of the faith from the outside. Sometimes, these categories overlap, but they are often two distinct forces to be reckoned with.

Though Peter cast this warning about mockers as a prophecy, within a few years, the first wave of these mockers had already begun to arrive on the scene. It may be that Jude’s brief letter, written just a few years later, quoted Peter’s prophecy as already coming to pass:

17 But you, my dear friends, must remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ predicted. 18 They told you that in the last times there would be scoffers whose purpose in life is to satisfy their ungodly desires. 19 These people are the ones who are creating divisions among you. They follow their natural instincts because they do not have God’s Spirit in them. (Jude 1:17-19)

Beginning in the first century and continuing to our day, cynics have come and gone. Their shrill mockery and accusing fingers pointing at Christianity draw a lot of attention. The sum of these scoffers is; to paraphrase Peter, they continually try to get us to question God just like The Satan did in the Garden, “How in the world can you believe this stuff? Do you think Jesus is going to come back? He lived, taught, and died. That’s it. And everything stays just the same. Nothing’s changed! History keeps plodding along just as it has for thousands of years.”

Today, scoffers like this have loud voices. They write popular and intellectual books, travel the talk show circuits, and influence the minds of the masses. The details may be new, and favorable media coverage has undoubtedly increased, but the fundamental tone and intention mirror the scoffers of Peter’s day. As the wise king Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes, Nothing under the sun is truly new. This condition of mockers challenging the claim that a day of reckoning is at hand describes our day quite well.

-3:5-6 —

Second, Peter tells us something to remember from the past (3:5-6). Peter says that when these mockers maintain that Jesus will never return to transform this world through judgment and restoration, they forget that God has done this sort of thing before.

The camp of scoffers who volley insults and snide remarks at the Christian faith almost inevitably reject two bedrock foundations of a Christian view of history: creation out of nothing and a global flood. A summary statement in 3:5 reminds us that God not only created the earth’s atmosphere (“heavens”) by separating water from water but also formed the inhabitable world ages ago by separating water from land. Genesis 1:6-10 describes both acts:

That was the original creation of heaven and earth. And this is the kind of special creative act of God| that atheists, materialists, and other skeptics openly reject. Peter says this about the scoffers: They deliberately forget that God made the heavens long ago by the word of his command. (3:5)This is not simply a matter of having never heard that God ordered everything. Instead, they come up with all sorts of theories and reasons to push the notion of a sovereign Creator out of their minds. They banish Genesis 1 into the myth or an antiquated worldview, favoring a process of astronomical and geological evolution over billions of years.

Peter emphasizes God’s acts of separating the water in the creation of the sky>and>earth because the judgment of the earth by the flood that followed at the time of Noah reversed that separation. The world at that time—that is, the world originally created in Genesis 1—was destroyed by those very same waters. This judgment by flood is described in Genesis 7:11-12:

11 When Noah was 600 years old, on the seventeenth day of the second month, all the underground waters erupted from the earth, and the rain fell in mighty torrents from the sky. 12 The rain continued to fall for forty days and forty nights.

I find it interesting that the same people who reject the evidence of God’s design and creation of the world also reject the evidence of a global flood. They look at the same geological evidence and read the same ancient accounts of floods found in almost every ancient culture worldwide. Still, they conclude that it’s all just legend or myth, or at most, an exaggerated account of a local calamity like a tsunami or hurricane.

But Peter makes it perfectly clear that the flood remade the original earth. The new order of things that remained after the floodwaters subsided |dramatically differed from the former world of wickedness. Peter’s point is that just as God catastrophically intervened with water during the Flood thousands of years ago, he would one day intervene again—but next time with fire, which means the purging or purification of that which is evil. A point of context here: just as the earth was remade by water during the flood, it will be purified or refined by fire in the coming days. This does not mean it will be literally destroyed, but once again, it will be remade in preparation for God’s kingdom.

Peter says that the present  And by the same word, the present heavens and earth have been stored up for fire. (3:7) This fire will come in the form of judgment on that day when God judges the world and the works of ungodly people. This will undoubtedly include the false teachers of Chapter 2 and the scoffers of Chapter 3. It corresponds with Peter’s repeated warnings of coming judgment, in which the wicked will perish, and the righteous will be saved.

What comes after the judgment (purification) by fire? Peter will address this topic in 3:13: “New heavens and a new earth” will rise from the purification of the present order. Just as the world of Genesis 1 had been restored after the judgment by water, the present heavens and earth will be judged and restored after the purification. We can chart Peter’s understanding of the various phases of the world in three distinct periods of “heaven and earth”—before the Flood, after the Flood, and after the fire.

It is interesting to note that in Chapter 2, when Peter referred to biblical illustrations of God rescuing the righteous and judging the wicked, he used the examples of the flood of Noah and the fire of Sodom and Gomorrah. These correspond to Peter’s reference to the past judgment by flood and the coming judgment by flame. Peter even said that God made the people of Sodom and Gomorrah: “He made them an example of what will happen to ungodly people.” (2:6).

Peter’s message couldn’t be more clear: Regardless of the way things appear day in and day out, despite the mockery of scoffers poking fun at the idea of Christ’s return and the coming judgments, in the end, God wins! (Poster)

Yes, critics...

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2448 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we continue our exploration of Psalm 18, a powerful psalm of David that reflects his gratitude to God for deliverance and victory over his enemies. In the previous episodes, we’ve seen how David praised God for His strength, faithfulness, and protection. We’ve reflected on how God’s way is perfect, how He arms us with strength, and how He makes our paths secure.

Now, as we dive into Psalm 18:37-45 from the New Living Translation, we’ll witness David’s description of his triumph over his enemies, a victory that he attributes entirely to God’s enabling power. These verses depict the battle’s intensity, the victory’s totality, and David’s humility in recognizing God’s role in his success.

So, let’s set out on today’s trek together, delving into the depths of Psalm 18:37-45.

 

We begin with verses 37 and 38: “I chased my enemies and caught them; I did not stop until they were conquered. I struck them down so they could not get up; they fell beneath my feet.”

Here, David vividly describes his relentless pursuit of his enemies. His words paint a picture of determination and total victory. David did not merely defend himself or avoid confrontation; he actively pursued his enemies until they were completely subdued. This pursuit symbolizes the spiritual battles we face in our lives. When we confront sin, fear, or any obstacle that stands in our way, we must do so with the same tenacity, not stopping until we have overcome it by God’s power.

David’s description of striking down his enemies so they could not get up and falling beneath his feet illustrates the totality of his victory. This wasn’t a partial or temporary win; it was a decisive and final conquest. In our spiritual walk, this reminds us that God calls us to be more than conquerors. We are not meant to live in a state of ongoing defeat or partial victories. Through Christ, we can achieve complete victory over the challenges we face.

Verse 39 is a crucial turning point in these verses: “You have armed me with strength for the battle; you have subdued my enemies under my feet.”

Here, David shifts the focus from his own actions to the true source of his strength—God. David acknowledges that it was God who armed him with the strength needed for the battle. This verse encapsulates a foundational truth: while we may be the ones on the battlefield, it is God who equips us with the necessary strength and resources to achieve victory.

David also credits God with subduing his enemies under his feet. This imagery is significant because it shows that the victory was not just David’s, but God’s. David was the instrument through which God brought about the defeat of the enemies. We must remember that our victories are not solely due to our efforts, wisdom, or strength. They result from God’s empowerment and His work in and through us.

This verse encourages us to rely on God’s strength rather than our own. When we face battles—whether they be against external adversaries, internal struggles, or spiritual forces—we must seek God’s strength, knowing that He is the one who ultimately secures the victory.

In verses 40-42, David continues, “You placed my foot on their necks. I have destroyed all who hated me. They called for help, but no one came to their rescue. They even cried to the Lord, but he refused to answer. I ground them as fine as dust in the wind. I swept them into the gutter like dirt.”

These verses describe the finality of David’s victory over his enemies. The image of placing his foot on their necks is one of total domination. In ancient times, this was a symbolic act that demonstrated complete control over a defeated foe. David’s enemies were utterly subdued, unable to rise or retaliate. This serves as a powerful metaphor for the ultimate triumph of God’s people over their adversaries.

David also notes that his enemies called for help, but no one came to their rescue, not even the Lord. This is a sobering reminder that there comes a point when those who persist in evil and opposition to God may find themselves beyond help. Their cries for deliverance go unanswered because they have chosen to set themselves against God’s purposes. This is a warning to all who would oppose God’s will and a comfort to those who align themselves with Him, knowing that God is just and will not leave the wicked unpunished.

The imagery of grinding his enemies as fine as dust in the wind and sweeping them into the gutter like dirt emphasizes the completeness of their defeat. David’s enemies are reduced to nothing, scattered like dust, and discarded like refuse. This dramatic portrayal underscores the thoroughness of God’s judgment against those who oppose Him and His anointed.

In verses 43-45, David reflects on the broader implications of his victory: “You gave me victory over my accusers. You appointed me ruler over nations; people I don’t even know now serve me. As soon as they hear of me, they submit; foreign nations cringe before me. They all lose their courage and come trembling from their strongholds.”

David acknowledges that his victory extends beyond just the defeat of his immediate enemies. God has elevated him to a position of authority and influence, even over nations that were previously unknown to him. This speaks to the expansive nature of God’s blessings. When God grants us victory, it often has far-reaching effects, impacting not just our immediate circumstances but also extending to areas we could never have imagined.

The submission of foreign nations and their trembling before David signifies the recognition of God’s anointed ruler. These nations, once powerful in their own right, now acknowledge David’s authority, not because of his personal power, but because they recognize the divine authority backing him. This is a powerful reminder that when we walk in alignment with God’s will, even those who were once opposed to us may come to respect and submit to the authority God has placed in us.

David’s description of these nations losing their courage and coming trembling from their strongholds illustrates the fear and awe inspired by God’s intervention on behalf of His people. This is not a fear rooted in cruelty or oppression, but in the recognition of God’s overwhelming power and the futility of resisting His will.

As we reflect on Psalm 18:37-45, it’s essential to recognize the overarching theme of God’s role in our victories. David was a mighty warrior and a skilled leader, but he continually pointed back to God as the source of his success. Whether it was the strength to pursue his enemies, the ability to subdue them, or the dominion he gained over nations, David knew that all of it was due to God’s provision and power.

This passage challenges us to examine our own lives and victories. Do we recognize God as the one who arms us with strength, who gives us the ability to overcome obstacles, and who grants us success? It’s easy to take credit for our accomplishments, but true wisdom lies in acknowledging that every good thing we achieve is ultimately a gift from God.

Furthermore, these verses remind us of the importance of perseverance in the battles we face. David did not stop until his enemies were completely subdued. In the same way, we are called to press on in our spiritual battles, trusting that God will give us the strength to overcome and the victory that He has promised.

As we conclude today’s reflection on Psalm 18:37-45, let’s carry with us the lessons of reliance on God’s strength, the importance of complete victory in our spiritual battles, and the recognition of God’s role in every success we experience. Just as David pursued his enemies with relentless determination, may we also pursue the path God has set before us with unwavering commitment, knowing that He will guide us to victory.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. I pray that today’s exploration of Psalm 18:37-45 has inspired and encouraged you in your walk with God. Until next time, keep seeking God’s wisdom, trust in God’s strength, and continue to walk in the light of His Word.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

 

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2447 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. I’m delighted to have you join me today as we continue exploring the depth and beauty of Psalm 18.

In our last episode, we reflected on Psalm 18:25-29, where David praised God’s faithfulness, justice, and strength. We saw how God is faithful to those who are faithful, how He lights our way in darkness, and how, with His strength, we can overcome any obstacle.

Today, we’ll be diving into Psalm 18:30-36 from the New Living Translation. In these verses, David continues to praise the greatness of God, focusing on His perfect way, His provision, and His empowerment for the battles of life. These verses are a powerful reminder of God’s sufficiency and how He equips us to stand firm and victorious.

So, let’s embark on today’s trek together as we uncover the wisdom and encouragement in Psalm 18:30-36.

We begin with verse 30: “God’s way is perfect. All the Lord’s promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection.”

David starts by affirming that God’s way is perfect. In a world full of uncertainty, where our plans often falter and our paths can be unclear, it’s comforting to know that God’s way is flawless. His plans are without error, and His guidance is always trustworthy. When we follow His path, we walk in a way that is right and leads to ultimate fulfillment and peace.

David also reminds us that “all the Lord’s promises prove true.” This statement is a testimony to the faithfulness of God’s Word. Throughout Scripture, we see countless promises made by God to His people—promises of protection, provision, guidance, and love. David assures us that these promises are not just empty words; they are steadfast and reliable. We can build our lives on the certainty that God will do what He has said.

Moreover, David declares that God is “a shield for all who look to him for protection.” This image of God as a shield is a recurring theme in the Psalms. A shield is a defense against attacks, a protector amid danger. When we place our trust in God, He becomes our shield, guarding us against the spiritual and physical dangers we face. This doesn’t mean that we’ll never encounter difficulties, but it does mean that God is our defender and that in Him, we find safety and refuge.

Continuing with verse 31, David asks, “For who is God except the Lord? Who but our God is a solid rock?”

Here, David highlights the uniqueness of God. In a world where people often place their trust in various things—wealth, power, human wisdom—David points us back to the one trustworthy source of strength and stability: God Himself. There is no other god, foundation, or rock upon which we can securely build our lives. All other ground is sinking sand, but God is the solid rock, unchanging and unshakable.

This verse challenges us to evaluate where we place our trust. Are we relying on temporary and unstable things, or are we anchored in the eternal and steadfast God? David’s rhetorical question reminds us that there is no one else like the Lord—He alone is the rock that will never fail us.

In verses 32-34, David shifts from describing God’s character to recounting how God equips him for the challenges he faces: “God arms me with strength, and he makes my way perfect. He makes me as surefooted as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights. He trains my hands for battle; he strengthens my arm to draw a bronze bow.”

David begins by acknowledging that it is God who arms him with strength. This strength is not merely physical; it’s a comprehensive empowerment that includes mental, emotional, and spiritual fortitude. Whatever challenges David faces, he knows that his ability to overcome them comes from God. This is a crucial reminder for us as well: our strength, whether in times of trial or triumph, comes from the Lord. When we feel weak or inadequate, we can trust that God will provide the strength we need.

David also says that God “makes my way perfect.” This echoes the earlier statement about God’s way being perfect. When we align ourselves with God’s will and follow His path, He ensures that our way is made straight, that we are on the right track. This doesn’t mean that the journey will always be easy or free of obstacles, but it does mean that God is guiding us toward His perfect purposes.

Next, David uses the metaphor of being “surefooted as a deer” to describe how God enables him to stand on mountain heights. In the rugged terrain of the ancient Near East, deer were known for their agility and ability to navigate challenging, rocky landscapes with ease. David likens this to how God empowers him to navigate the high places of life—the challenges, responsibilities, and battles. With God’s help, David is not only able to survive but to thrive in the most challenging of circumstances.

Finally, David speaks of God training his hands for battle and strengthening his arm to draw a bronze bow. The image of drawing a bronze bow signifies great strength and skill, as bronze was a heavy and sturdy material. David attributes his ability to excel in battle, not to his own prowess, but to the training and strength provided by God. This teaches us that whatever skills or talents we possess, they are ultimately a gift from God. He equips us for the tasks He sets before us, whether those tasks are physical, like David’s battles, or spiritual, like the battles we face in our daily lives.

Verse 35 is particularly powerful: “You have given me your shield of victory. Your right hand supports me; your help has made me great.”

Here, David continues to acknowledge the source of his success and protection. He speaks of the “shield of victory” given to him by God. This isn’t just any shield—it’s a shield that guarantees victory. It’s a symbol of God’s promise to deliver David from his enemies and to secure his triumph in the battles he faces. This shield represents God’s active role in David’s life, ensuring that he emerges victorious, not by his own might, but by God’s intervention.

David also recognizes the support of God’s “right hand.” In Scripture, the right hand often symbolizes strength, power, and favor. David acknowledges that God’s powerful and sustaining hand has upheld him through all his trials. It’s not David’s own strength or strategy that has brought him success; it’s the sovereign support of God.

Lastly, David says, “Your help has made me great.” This statement encapsulates the humility of David’s heart. Despite his accomplishments, he doesn’t claim greatness for himself. Instead, he attributes any greatness he has achieved to God’s help. David’s greatness is not self-made; it is God-made. This is a lesson for all of us: true greatness, true success, comes not from our own efforts alone, but from God’s help, His guidance, and His empowerment in our lives.

In verse 36, David concludes this section with a reflection on the security and stability God provides: “You have made a wide path for my feet to keep them from slipping.”

David vividly portrays how God has cleared a wide and secure path for him. The image here is of a path that is not narrow or precarious, but broad and stable, ensuring that David’s feet do not slip. This is a metaphor for the guidance and protection that God provides. In life, we often walk paths fraught with danger and uncertainty, but with God leading the way, we can walk confidently, knowing that He has prepared a secure path for us.

This verse is a reminder that when we follow God’s leading, He will not let our feet slip. He will guide us in such a way that we can move forward with assurance, even when the terrain of life is difficult. We may face challenges, but we can be surefooted, steady, and secure with God’s guidance.

As we reflect on Psalm 18:30-36, several key themes emerge that are vital for our daily walk with God:

The Perfection of God’s Way: God’s path is flawless, and His promises are trustworthy. When we follow His way, we can be confident that we are on the right track, and His protection surrounds us.

The Uniqueness of God: There is no other foundation as solid as the Lord. He is our rock, our unshakable source of strength and stability.

God’s Empowerment: God equips us with the strength and skill we need to face life’s challenges. Whether we are standing on the mountain heights or engaging in spiritual battles, it is God who empowers us to succeed.

The Shield of Victory: Our victories are not self-made; they are a result of God’s intervention and support. He gives us the shield of victory and upholds us with His mighty right hand.

A Secure Path: God prepares a safe and stable path for us. As we follow His guidance, He keeps our feet from slipping, ensuring we can confidently walk through life’s journey.

As we continue on our wisdom trek, let’s remember these truths and trust in the Lord’s perfect way, His unique strength, and His empowering presence in our lives. With God as our guide, we can confidently face any challenge, knowing He has made a wide path for our feet and will keep us from slipping.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. I pray that today’s reflection on Psalm 18:30-36 has encouraged you and strengthened your faith. Until next time, keep seeking God’s wisdom, walk in the light of God’s Word, and trust in His unfailing love.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

 

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2446 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

Today is the eighteenth lesson in our segment Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not to Bore Me with the Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S. Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church.

The Bible is a wonderful book. Its pages reveal the epic story of God’s redemption of humankind and the long, bitter conflict against evil. Yet it’s also a book that seems strange to us. While God’s Word was written for us, it wasn’t written to us. Today, our lesson is Sanctified Dirt.

Elisha’s healing of Naaman, the leper, commander of the army of the king of Syria, is a familiar story to many (2 Kgs 5:1-27). Naaman hears that Elisha, the prophet of Israel, can heal him, so he makes the trip. When the two meet, Elisha tells him rather dismissively that he needs to take a bath in the Jordan River. Naaman doesn’t take this well and prepares to go home. At the behest of some servants, he consents to dip himself in the Jordan. The simple act miraculously heals him. The display of power, so transparently without sacrifice or incantation, awakens Naaman to the fact that Yahweh of Israel is the true God. Here’s where the story usually ends in our telling, but that would result in the omission of one very odd detail—what Naaman asks to take back home.

In 2 Kings 5:15-19, the elated Naaman returns to Elisha and begs him to take payment for healing him. Elisha repeatedly refuses. Finally, before embarking on a trip to Syria, Naaman makes a strange request: to load two mules with dirt to take back with him.

Dirt? I can think of a few favors I would ask of a prophet in a receptive mood, but dirt certainly isn’t one of them. The request is so odd that it’s hard to avoid wondering if Naaman needed some other kind of therapy. Why would he ask for dirt?

But Naaman was completely in his right mind. In 2 Kings 5:17, Naaman follows the request with an explanation: “From now on, I will never again offer burnt offerings or sacrifices to any other god except the Lord.” The dirt and Naaman’s new allegiance to the God of Israel are related. Naaman was a man who had significant duties in his home country. He couldn’t stay in Israel, but he could take Israel with him. Why would he want to?

Naaman’s unusual request stems from the ancient—and biblical— conception that the earth is the locale for a cosmic turf war. Naaman wanted dirt from Israel because Israel was Yahweh’s territory. The dirt, which is Yahweh’s domain, is holy ground.

The idea of “holy ground” is an essential element of Israelite theology. This phrase is used when Moses is in the presence of the Angel of the Lord and the God of Israel at the burning bush (Exod 3:1-5) and when Joshua meets the Angel of the Lord (Josh 5:15). - More broadly, the idea derives from Deuteronomy 32:8-9 (compare Deut 4:19-20), where we learn that when God divided up the nations at the Tower of Babel, they were allotted to “the sons of God.” The nations of the world were, in effect, disinherited by Yahweh as His own earthly family. Immediately after Babel, Yahweh called Abraham, and the nation of Israel was created. Israel was, therefore, “Yahweh’s portion” (Deut 32:9), whereas all the other nations belong to the sons of God whom Israel was forbidden to worship. As a result, Israel was holy ground; the territory of every other nation was not. The rest of the Old Testament is the story of God’s intention to reclaim every nation on earth.

Elisha understood Naaman’s request and granted it without hesitation. He knew the request came from a sincere theological change of heart. Naaman believed, “Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel” (2 Kgs 5:15). Naaman wanted to return to his homeland with holy ground. Even though he would still have to help his aged king bow before Rimmon, Naaman wanted Elisha to know his heart belonged only to the God of Elisha.

The lessons that make up Theology Thursday on the Wisdom-Trek Podcast for the next couple of years will satisfy the statement, “I Dare You Not to Bore Me with the Bible.” I trust you’ll enjoy them—and, of course, not be bored.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2445 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. I’m excited to be on this journey with you today as we continue to explore the profound truths of God’s Word. In our last episode, we walked through Psalm 18:16-24, where David reflected on God’s deliverance, his own righteousness, and the rewards that come from living a life aligned with God’s will.

Today, we’ll dive into Psalm 18:25-29 from the New Living Translation. In these verses, David shifts his focus to God’s character and the way He interacts with people based on their hearts and actions. These verses are rich with insight into the nature of God’s justice and the encouragement that comes from walking in His light.

So, let’s lace up our hiking boots and set out on today’s trek, as we uncover the wisdom and guidance in Psalm 18:25-29.

Let’s start with verses 25 and 26: “To the faithful you show yourself faithful; to those with integrity you show integrity. To the pure you show yourself pure, but to the crooked you show yourself shrewd.”

These verses highlight a principle about God’s interaction with humanity: reciprocity. David observes that God’s dealings with people are often a reflection of their own character and behavior. To those who are faithful, God reveals His faithfulness. To those who live with integrity, God responds with integrity. And to the pure, God shows Himself pure.

This isn’t to suggest that God’s character changes based on human behavior—God is unchanging in His holiness, righteousness, and love. Instead, David emphasizes that the condition of our hearts often influences our experience of God. If we approach God with sincerity, faithfulness, and purity, we’ll experience His attributes in a way that aligns with those qualities.

But what about the crooked? David says, “To the crooked you show yourself shrewd.” Here, the word “shrewd” implies that God deals with the deceitful and wicked in a way that matches their cunning. God’s justice ensures that those who live dishonestly or with malicious intent will eventually face the consequences of their actions. In other words, God is not fooled by those who try to manipulate or deceive—He meets them on their own terms, with divine wisdom and justice.

This principle reminds us that how we live our lives profoundly impacts our relationship with God. If we seek Him with a heart full of faith and integrity, we will find Him to be faithful and just in all His ways. But if we live in a way that is crooked or deceitful, we can expect God to address us in a manner that matches our actions.

Moving on to verse 27, David writes, “You rescue the humble, but you humiliate the proud.”

This verse speaks to one of the most consistent themes throughout Scripture: God’s favor toward the humble and His opposition to the proud. The Bible is filled with examples of God lifting up the humble and bringing down the arrogant. We see this in the stories of people like Joseph, Moses, and Mary, who, despite their humble circumstances, were exalted by God because of their hearts and faithfulness.

In contrast, those who are proud—those who rely on their own strength, wisdom, or status—often find themselves brought low by God’s hand. This isn’t because God delights in humiliating people, but because pride is fundamentally opposed to the spirit of dependence and trust God desires from us.

When we humble ourselves before God, we acknowledge our need for Him. We recognize that, apart from Him, we can do nothing of eternal value. This humility positions us to receive God’s grace and experience His rescue in our lives, just as David experienced it repeatedly.

But for the proud, those who refuse to acknowledge their need for God, humiliation often follows. This is not because God is unkind, but because pride sets us on a path that ultimately leads to destruction. When we trust in our abilities rather than God’s, we build our lives on a foundation that cannot stand.

David’s words here challenge us to examine our own hearts. Are we living in humility, fully aware of our dependence on God? Or are we relying on our own strength, risking the humiliation that pride inevitably brings?

Verse 28 offers a beautiful image of God’s guidance and provision: “You light a lamp for me. The Lord, my God, lights up my darkness.”

Here, David acknowledges that God is the one who brings light into his life, especially in times of darkness. The Bible often uses This metaphor of light to represent God’s guidance, truth, and presence. When we find ourselves in confusing, challenging, or seemingly hopeless situations, it’s God who lights our path and helps us see the way forward.

This verse also speaks to the personal relationship David has with God—“The Lord, my God.” This isn’t just a distant deity, but a close and personal God who is actively involved in David’s life. It’s a reminder that God’s light is not just a general truth for all people, but a specific, guiding light for each of us in our individual circumstances.

In our own lives, we all face seasons of darkness—times when we feel lost, uncertain, or overwhelmed by the challenges before us. In those moments, we can take comfort in knowing that God is our light. He is the one who will illuminate our path, guiding us through the darkness with His truth and love.

Finally, in verse 29, David declares, “In your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall.”

This verse is a powerful testimony to the strength and victory that come from relying on God. A warrior king, David knew well the challenges of battle and the seemingly insurmountable obstacles that often stood in his way. Yet, he also knew that with God’s strength, there was no enemy too powerful and no wall too high.

David’s confidence here is not in his own abilities, but in the strength of God working through him. This is a key lesson for all of us: true victory in life’s battles comes not from our own strength, but from God’s. Whether we’re facing physical challenges, emotional struggles, or spiritual battles, we can have confidence that, with God on our side, we can overcome any obstacle.

This verse also reminds us of the importance of partnering with God in our efforts. David says, “with my God I can scale any wall.” He recognizes that it’s in partnership with God that we find success. We’re not called to sit back and wait for God to do everything for us; instead, we’re called to step out in faith, trusting that God’s strength will empower us to accomplish what we could never do on our own.

As we face the challenges in our own lives, let’s take David’s words to heart. Let’s remember that with God’s strength, we can overcome any obstacle, defeat any enemy, and accomplish more than we ever thought possible.

As we reflect on Psalm 18:25-29, several key truths emerge that we can apply to our daily lives:

Reciprocity in Our Relationship with God: The way we live—whether in faithfulness, integrity, or purity—affects how we experience God. If we seek Him with sincere hearts, we’ll find Him to be faithful and just in our lives.

The Importance of Humility: God favors the humble and opposes the proud. When we humble ourselves before God, we position ourselves to receive His grace and experience His rescue in our lives.

God as Our Light: In times of darkness and uncertainty, God is our guiding light. He will illuminate our path and help us navigate through life’s challenges with His truth and love.

Victory through God’s Strength: True victory comes from relying on God’s strength, not our own. When we partner with God, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve what seems impossible.

As we journey through life, let’s strive to live in a way that reflects these truths. Let’s approach God with faithfulness, integrity, and humility, trusting that He will be our light and our strength in every situation.

Thank you for joining me today on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. It’s been a privilege to walk through Psalm 18:25-29 with you and to uncover the profound wisdom contained within these verses. As you continue on your trek through life, I encourage you to hold on to these truths and to let them guide you in your daily walk with God.

Remember, God is faithful to those who are faithful; He is the light in our darkness, and He is the strength that enables us to overcome every challenge. With these truths in mind, let’s continue to seek wisdom, embrace humility, and rely on God’s strength as we navigate the path ahead.

Until next time, keep seeking wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!

Last week, we observed that scripture does seem to present two sides of the same God—the attributes of justice, judgment, and wrath on the one side and the attributes of mercy, salvation, and blessing on the other. The side that we are on depends on whether we have accepted God’s gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. If you miss any messages, you can watch them online on our Facebook page or at PutnamChurch.org.

Today’s passage is 2 Peter 2:12-22, on page 1895 of your Pew Bibles. Because of the complexities of the subject matter, I will read it from the NLT for clarity of flow.

Why does Peter delve so deeply into these depths of depravity? Remember that Peter wrote this letter to remind believers of the source of sound teaching, |to encourage diligence in the faith, |and to strengthen biblical foundations of beliefs and practices. To encourage the positive, Peter sets it against the black backdrop of the negative. In Chapter 1, he described the useful and fruitful image of a growing believer in brilliant hues and pointed to their hope through embracing God’s Word as their standard of unfailing truth. In chapter 2, he describes the useless and fruitless unbelievers in dark, drab colors, pointing to their future judgment for rejecting God’s Word and God’s Son and leading others astray.

These following few verses present a desperate portrait of animal appetites taking complete charge of human beings. When these subhuman impulses take control, the result is self-condemnation and destruction.

When God created Adam and Eve and placed them in the Garden of Eden, He gave them authority over all the animals His earthly creation (Gen. 1:26-27). This dominion over the earthly creation is part of what it meant for humans to be imagers of God. Adam and Eve were responsible to tend and caring for the Garden of Eden. Yet, they listened to his deceptive words of the evil one, (in Hebrew, he is called the Nacash, which is better translated as ‘the shining one’ rather than the serpent). Because of this, they surrendered their position (Gen. 3). Ever since that tragic choice, humans have continued to abandon their place of dignity over creation in exchange for behavior that put them on par with the very beasts they were meant to govern.

Instead of being divinely endowed with superior reason, they become, as Peter says, “like unthinking animals.” Instead of exercising dominion, they act like “creatures of instinct, born to be caught and destroyed.” Instead of submitting to God and allowing His divine power to lift them up to a place of dignity and glory, they mock and revile things they don’t understand. With their animalistic mentality, a corrupt morality follows. Such people are constantly on the prowl for fornication or adultery. They size up every situation for unseen opportunities to sin. They greedily bite at every baited hook, unconcerned about the disastrous consequences.

Like carnivorous predators, they hunt for naive, weak, and unstable victims to devour. Peter says, “they are well trained in greed.” They are masters at tricking, extorting, stealing, and blackmailing. They know how to tug at the heartstrings and sound so sincere. Jesus described such monstrous humans well: “Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves,” (Matt. 7:15). It’s no wonder Peter says of these false teachers, “They live under God’s curse,” (2 Pet. 2:14)!

2:15-17

Although they knew God’s straight way, the false teachers veered off to cut their own paths through the wilderness of wickedness. Instead of following Christ, the true Prophet, they followed in the footsteps of Balaam, the ideal false prophet. Peter alludes to this Old Testament figure to illustrate a hireling prophet who peddled his gift (see Num. 22-24; 31:1-16). That man loved money, and because of his greed, he led Israel into sin. He was eloquent, but used his giftedness to fulfill his own lusts rather than faithfully represent the truth. In the same way, the false teachers in Peter’s day were leading people astray by persuasive false prophecy for personal gain.

False prophets today are no different. Every modern-day Balaam has their price. They may appear in it for the ministry, but it doesn’t take long to realize they’re in it for the money. When the price is right, make no mistake; they exchange principles for profit.

The point of this story is that every fake has a price. Lacking integrity, the impostor will do anything to feed the greed. Peter says they “loved to earn money by doing wrong” (2:15). But too often, these false prophets forget that though their exploits can be profitable in the short term, the wages of wickedness will ultimately be met with the wages of sin is death (Rom. 6:23). God miraculously rebuked Balaam himself through a donkey, a sign of the depths of his animalistic madness. Joshua 13:22 includes a brief note in its description of the conquest of the Promised Land that illustrates the ultimate end of false prophets who find themselves on the wrong side when judgment finally falls: The Israelites had also killed Balaam son of Beor, who used magic to tell the future. The wages of sin is death.

Peter uses three vivid word pictures to describe such apostates (2 Pet. 2:17). First, “as useless as dried-up springs,” they appear to have something refreshing to offer, but when you get close, you realize it’s just a spiritually barren mirage. Second, they are “mist blown away by the wind.” Typically, storms drive rain clouds bursting with water to nourish crops and prevent drought. But apostates deceive people with thunderous claims and flashy appeal— bringing with them not spiritually nourishing doctrine but only useless mists. Third, they may claim to lead people into the light through their “enlightening” teachings, but those who follow them end up in the same place as the false prophets: “doomed to blackest darkness.”

Peter makes the point that the impressive words of the false teachers don’t point us to the truth. They point us to the teacher. We are wise to be suspicious of those who are too smooth, too polished, too attractive. Those are telltale signs that they promise more than they deliver. Be especially wary of preachers, teachers, and, yes, leaders in industry or politics who constantly put down other ministers of the gospel or others in their field and try to make themselves look like the best—or even the only— source of truth.

Though they promise freedom, their lifestyles they lure back into sin (2:18). False teachers love to flaunt their freedom. To them, it means the liberty to sin as much as they want, unrestrained by truth, unafraid of repercussions in this life or the life to come. Please don’t misunderstand. I’m a teacher of grace. And I believe Christ has set us free from the Law and delivered us from man-made legalism. But the grace and mercy of God were never meant to provide us with a license to sin nor deliver us into the bondage of legalism. As Paul says in Romans 6:1-2, “Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?” The false teachers, ripping the doctrine of grace from its larger context of truth, distorted the Christian faith into an unrecognizable monstrosity. In the words of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, they offered “cheap grace”!

Throughout his description of the false teachers, Peter has hinted at the future judgments they would reap because of their actions (2:1, 3, 9, 12-13, 17, 19). In the last few verses of this chapter, Peter focuses on the state of those who, having known the way of righteousness through Christ, have nevertheless turned their backs on it and have gone their own way.

The false teachers Peter has in mind were not merely confused Christians, doubting Thomases, or backslidden believers. These were false professors —people who appeared for a time |to be authentic |but were, in fact, like counterfeit bills amidst a pocketful of the real thing. They could pass themselves off as true Christians, but their words and deeds eventually gave them away.

Peter said these false teachers know our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2:20). By their fruit, however, we can discern that they didn’t have an actual saving knowledge of Christ that genuinely transformed their lives, or somewhere along the way, they chose to reject Jesus who saved them. Peter describes the kind of fruitful saving knowledge of Christ in other parts of this letter:

May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. (1:2)

By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. (1:3)

The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1:8)

In these passages, we see the results of the true saving knowledge of Christ —grace and peace multiplied, life and godliness granted, fruitful and useful virtues increasing. This doesn’t mean that every day, every week, or even every month of a believer’s life will be a bountiful harvest of quality spiritual fruit. But it does mean that the personal knowledge of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior will result in the bearing of fruit over the lifetime of a believer. It’s helpful to remember that fruit-bearing is seasonal. Peter writes to believers, assuming they all need encouragement in their spiritual growth to regain or remain fruitful and useful (1:8).

Peter has in mind the same kind of people Jesus referred to when he said that Satan would sow “weeds among the wheat”—deceptive look-alikes that become evident only as the genuine wheat bears its grain (Matt. 13:25-26). These are also the caliber of false teachers John described as “antichrists.” These people left our churches, but they never really belonged with us; otherwise they would have stayed with us. When they left, it proved that they did not belong with us, (1 Jn. 2:18-19). This doesn’t mean that true believers can lose their salvation. Just the opposite! It means that false believers never had salvation, or they chose to reject Jesus Christ as their savior, which they once professed.

These people were intellectually aware of the truth but had never allowed it to transform their hearts. As a result, they were in a worse condition than those who had never heard (2 Pet. 2:20-21)! They knew enough about the Christian faith to conduct themselves in genuine ways. Eventually, however, their cloaks of deception fell away, and their malicious intentions became apparent to everybody. How did it become obvious?

Returning to his earlier analogy of false teachers who conduct themselves like “unthinking animals” (2:12), Peter likens their behavior to dogs and pigs. In Peter’s day, dogs were regarded as unclean animals that ran in packs, wild and vicious. Don’t think of the pampered, well-groomed pets of our day. Think of scavenging beasts no more appealing than giant rats. Peter says these false teachers who turn their backs on the truth are, “A dog returns to its vomit,” (2:22; quoting Prov. 26:11). He also says they are like “A washed pig returns to the mud.” There’s just something in the nature of animals to act like animals. No matter how well you treat or pretty them up, their instincts kick in, and their true natures as beasts will be revealed.

In this way, Peter makes the stunning argument that ignorance of the truth is better than apostasy from it. How can he say that? I can think of three reasons. First, somebody who is ignorant of the truth can be won to the Lord, but somebody who has rejected it is seldom open to correction and change. They think they’ve “been there, done that.” It’s not impossible, but removing the baggage, clearing the confusion, and helping them unlearn what they have chosen to believe is problematic.

Second, those who are ignorant of the truth don’t have the influence over others that the “learned” have. Those who think they know it all teach as if they do. They influence others and lead them astray. In fact, in my experience, the most damaging critics of Christianity are those who claim to have been believers, but were suddenly “enlightened” by a different religion—or by no religion at all. The testimonies of apostates can be very influential and highly persuasive.

Third, in the final judgment, the severity of punishment will be less for the ignorant than for the apostates. The Bible states that those who die without having a proper saving knowledge of Christ will be condemned to eternal separation from God. But according to Jesus’ parable in Luke 12:41-48, there will be a lesser degree of punishment for those who never knew Him than those who were exposed to the truth but turned away from Him. Jesus said,

“And a servant who knows what the master wants, but isn’t prepared and doesn’t carry out those instructions, will be severely punished. 48 But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required,” (Luke 12:47-48).

At this point, in Peter’s second letter, we reach the bottom of a deep, dark pit. Peter has thoroughly examined the problem of doctrinal compromise, addressing the critical question, “What should I expect from false prophets?” He has warned us that false prophets are coming (2:1-3). He also provides a reminder that those false teachers will bring judgment upon themselves (2:21-22). Yet, amid this gloomy chapter, he has injected a promise that God will rescue the righteous from wrath (2:9). In light of his no-holds-barred attack on false prophets, Peter calls for diligence to avoid their deceptive doctrines and alluring lifestyles. He then urges his readers to look forward to the hope of deliverance at Christ’s return.

There’s a Persian proverb that goes like this:

He who knows not, and knows not that he knows not is a fool; shun him.

He who knows not, and knows that he knows not, is a child; teach him.

He who knows, and knows not that he knows, is asleep; wake him.

He who knows, and knows that he knows, is wise; follow him.

I’ve learned the true meaning of those lines over the years. I’ve discovered that all four “types” can be found on every campus, in any business, in all neighborhoods, and within every church. They don’t wear badges marked “Fool,” “Child,” “Asleep,” or “Wise.” And you’ll never have somebody walk up to you, shake your hand, and say, “Hi, I’m Guthrie. I’m a fool.” Chances are, the last thing we want you to discover is the deep-down truth that “he knows not that he knows not.”

Then how in the world are we to know whom to shun, teach, awaken, or follow? First, the answer in a word is discernment—skill and accuracy in reading character and the ability to detect and identify the real truth— to see beneath the surface, read between the lines, and sense by intuition that something is incorrect. Hebrews 5:14 identifies discernment as a mark of maturity. Solid food is for those who are mature and who through training, have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong. Discernment gives a person the proper frame of reference, a...

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2443 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. Today, we’re continuing our journey through Psalm 18. We’ll be focusing on verses 16 through 24 from the New Living Translation.

David reflects on God’s deliverance, righteousness, and faithfulness in these verses. They offer us valuable insights into the character of God and the way He interacts with those who love and obey Him. So, let’s embark on this trek together, uncovering the timeless wisdom contained within these powerful words.

Let’s begin with verses 16 through 18. David writes, “He reached down from heaven and rescued me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemies, from those who hated me and were too strong for me. They attacked me at a moment when I was in distress, but the Lord supported me.”

In these verses, we see a vivid depiction of God’s intervention in David’s life. The imagery of being drawn out of deep waters suggests a situation of overwhelming danger and helplessness. David acknowledges that his enemies were too strong for him, but it was God who rescued him. This rescue wasn’t just a casual or distant act—God “reached down from heaven.” This personal involvement shows God’s deep care and commitment to those who trust Him.

David’s enemies attacked him when he was most vulnerable, “at a moment when I was in distress.” But even in his weakest state, David found strength in the Lord’s support. This is a powerful reminder that no matter how desperate our situation may seem, God is always present to support and deliver us.

Moving on to verse 19, David writes, “He led me to a place of safety; he rescued me because he delights in me.” This verse is incredibly encouraging. David recognizes that God’s deliverance wasn’t just an act of duty—it was motivated by delight. God takes pleasure in rescuing and protecting those He loves.

This idea of God delighting in us is a profound one. Often, we think of God’s actions as driven by His righteousness or His justice, which they are. But here, David emphasizes God’s delight. This is not the delight of a detached deity, but of a loving Father who cares deeply for His children. God’s delight in us leads to our safety and well-being.

Verses 20 through 23continue this theme of God’s reward: “The Lord rewarded me for doing right; he restored me because of my innocence. For I have kept the ways of the Lord; I have not turned from my God to follow evil. I have followed all his regulations; I have never abandoned his decrees. I am blameless before God; I have kept myself from sin. The Lord rewarded me for doing right. He has seen my innocence.”

In these verses, David reflects on his own righteousness and integrity. He speaks of being rewarded by God for doing what is right and maintaining his innocence. David’s words reveal a heart that is committed to living according to God’s ways.

David’s claim to righteousness might seem bold, but it’s essential to understand the context. He’s not claiming to be sinless in an absolute sense; instead, he’s declaring his faithfulness to God’s covenant. David has made it his aim to follow God’s commands and live in a way that pleases Him. He’s describing the kind of life that seeks to honor God in every action and decision.

This passage challenges us to examine our own lives. Are we, like David, striving to keep the ways of the Lord? Are we committed to following His regulations and decrees? David’s life wasn’t perfect—he made mistakes, as we all do. But his heart was devoted to God, and he sought to live in a way that was blameless before Him.

David’s reward for his righteousness wasn’t just a matter of divine obligation. It was a reflection of God’s character. God honors those who honor Him. He rewards those who seek to live in obedience to His Word. And just as David experienced restoration and blessing because of his commitment to righteousness, we too can trust that God sees our efforts and will reward our faithfulness.

David’s testimony in these verses underscores the relationship between obedience and blessing. When we align our lives with God’s commands, we position ourselves to receive His blessings. This doesn’t mean life will be free of challenges—David’s life certainly wasn’t. But it does mean that God will walk with us, support us, and ultimately reward our efforts to live righteously.

It’s also important to note that David’s righteousness was not self-generated. God’s grace empowered his ability to keep God’s commands and live blamelessly. This reminds us that we, too, rely on God’s grace and strength to live in a way that honors Him.

Reflecting on these verses, we should be encouraged to pursue righteousness with all our hearts. Our obedience to God is not in vain. He sees our efforts, knows our hearts, and blesses those who seek to walk in His ways.

In the final verse 24 of this passage, David emphasizes that “The Lord rewarded me for doing right. He has seen my innocence.” David’s confidence in God’s faithfulness is evident here. He knows that God is just and will always act in accordance with His character.

This verse reminds us that God is not blind to our struggles or our efforts. He sees everything we go through and everything we do. God takes notice when we choose to live in righteousness, even when it’s difficult. And in His perfect timing, He rewards our faithfulness.

David’s words also encourage us to trust in God’s judgment. Sometimes, it might seem like our efforts go unnoticed or unappreciated. But God sees the bigger picture. He knows the right time to reward us, and His rewards are always worth the wait.

So, how do we apply the lessons from Psalm 18:16-24 to our own lives? Here are a few key takeaways:

Trust in God’s Deliverance: Just as God reached down to rescue David, He is ready to rescue us in our times of need. We can trust that He will support us, even when we feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges.

Delight in God’s Delight: Remember that God delights in you. He doesn’t just tolerate you—He takes pleasure in you. Let this truth encourage you to seek His protection and guidance with confidence.

Pursue Righteousness: David’s commitment to living according to God’s ways was the foundation of his relationship with God. Make it your aim to live in a way that honors God, knowing that He sees your efforts and will reward you in due time.

Rely on God’s Grace: Recognize that your ability to live righteously comes from God’s grace. Depend on His strength to help you follow His commands and keep yourself from sin.

Trust in God’s Faithfulness: God is faithful to reward those who seek to live in obedience to Him. Trust that He sees your heart and will bless you for your faithfulness.

As we wrap up today’s episode of Wisdom-Trek, let’s take these lessons from Psalm 18 to heart. Trust in God’s deliverance, delight in His love for you, pursue righteousness with all your heart, rely on His grace, and trust in His faithfulness. These truths will guide you on your journey of faith and bring you closer to the heart of God.

Thank you for joining me today on Wisdom-Trek. It’s always a privilege to explore the depths of God’s Word with you. As you continue on your trek through life, remember that God is with you every step of the way, supporting, guiding, and delighting in you.

Until next time, keep seeking God’s wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2442 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. Today, we’re continuing our journey through Psalm 18, focusing on verses 7 to 15 from the New Living Translation. In these verses, we witness a powerful depiction of God’s might and His response to the prayers of His people.

So, let’s prepare our hearts and minds as we delve into this passage’s vivid imagery and profound truths.

In these verses, we are presented with a stunning portrayal of God’s majesty and power. David describes the Lord’s intervention in dramatic terms, using vivid imagery that evokes awe and reverence. In verse 7, the earth quakes, and trembles, and the very foundations of the mountains shake in response to God’s anger. This is a powerful reminder of the might and sovereignty of God over all creation.

The following verses, 8 and 9, continue this depiction of God’s power: “Smoke poured from his nostrils; fierce flames leaped from his mouth. Glowing coals blazed forth from him. He opened the heavens and came down; dark storm clouds were beneath his feet.” The imagery here is striking, emphasizing God’s overwhelming strength and the intensity of His presence.

As we move to verses 10 and 11, we see God’s divine intervention described in terms of a celestial journey: “Mounted on a mighty angelic being, he flew, soaring on the wings of the wind. He shrouded himself in darkness, veiling his approach with dark rain clouds.” This poetic description highlights the swiftness and majesty of God’s movement, as well as the mystery surrounding His actions.

In verse 12, “Thick clouds shielded the brightness around him and rained down hail and burning coals,” we see a continuation of the theme of God’s power over the elements. The brightness of His presence is so intense that clouds must shield it, and the hail and burning coals emphasize the destructive power that can be unleashed at His command.

Verse 13 brings a powerful auditory element to this vision: “The Lord thundered from heaven; the voice of the Most High resounded amid the hail and burning coals.” The sound of the Lord’s voice is likened to thunder, a sound that is both awe-inspiring and terrifying. This description serves as a reminder of the authority and power inherent in the voice of God.

In verse 14, we see the result of God’s intervention: “He shot his arrows and scattered his enemies; his lightning flashed, and they were greatly confused.” The imagery of arrows and lightning conveys the precision and swiftness of God’s actions. His enemies are scattered and thrown into confusion, unable to stand against the power of the Almighty.

Finally, in verse 15, we see the culmination of this powerful imagery: “Then at your command, O Lord, at the blast of your breath, the bottom of the sea could be seen, and the foundations of the earth were laid bare.” This verse emphasizes the complete and total sovereignty of God over the natural world. At His command, the seas are parted, and the very foundations of the earth are exposed. This is a reminder of God’s control over all creation, a testament to His ultimate authority and power.

As we reflect on these verses, we are reminded of the immense power and majesty of God. David’s vivid descriptions serve to highlight the awe-inspiring nature of God’s intervention in the world. But beyond the powerful imagery, there is a deeper message of God’s protective care for His people.

David’s words remind us that God is not distant or detached from our struggles. He is actively involved, responding to the cries of His people with strength and might. This passage encourages us to trust in God’s ability to protect and deliver us from our enemies, no matter how formidable they may seem.

As we consider the lessons from this passage, several key points emerge:

Recognize God’s Sovereignty: These verses remind us of God’s ultimate authority over all creation. Recognizing God’s sovereignty helps us trust in His plan and timing, even when we face difficult circumstances.

Trust in God’s Power: David’s vivid descriptions of God’s power remind us that no challenge is too great for the Lord. We can trust in His ability to overcome any obstacle and defeat any enemy.

Seek God’s Protection: Just as David called upon the Lord in his time of need, we, too, can seek God’s protection and deliverance. He is our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble.

Stand in Awe of God’s Majesty: The imagery in this passage invites us to stand in awe of God’s majesty and power. Let us cultivate a sense of reverence and worship for the Lord, who is worthy of all our praise.

As we apply these lessons to our lives, we deepen our relationship with God and strengthen our faith. Recognizing God’s sovereignty gives us peace and confidence in His plan. Trusting in His power enables us to face challenges with courage and hope. Seeking His protection provides us with comfort and security in times of trouble. And standing in awe of His majesty inspires us to live lives of worship and devotion.

As we conclude our exploration of Psalm 18:7-15, let’s carry these lessons with us on our journey. Recognize God’s sovereignty, trust in His power, seek His protection, and stand in awe of His majesty. By doing so, we align ourselves with the timeless wisdom of David’s prayer and live lives that reflect God’s love and faithfulness.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. May these insights from Psalm 18 inspire and strengthen you as you continue your trek through life. Until next time, keep seeking wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!

 

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2441 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

Today is the eighteenth lesson in our segment, Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not to Bore Me with the Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible, exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church.

The Bible is a wonderful book. Its pages reveal the epic story of God’s redemption of humankind and the long, bitter conflict against evil. Yet it’s also a book that seems strange to us. While God’s Word was written for us, it wasn’t written to us. Today, our lesson is, Promise Undelivered?

When exposed to evil, we might doubt God’s presence. Soldiers’ accounts and memoirs often recall times of doubt as they grappled with war atrocity and, ultimately, the struggle between good and evil. While Scripture is clear that good will triumph, it also says evil will win its share of battles. Second Kings 3 records a war event where evil won.

Second Kings 3 describes the rebellion of Moab, led by its king, Mesha, against the monarch of the northern kingdom of Israel, King Jehoram (3:5). Like his father Ahab, Jehoram solicited King Jehoshaphat of Judah (the southern kingdom) for assistance against his enemy (3:7). They were joined by the king of Edom (3:9).

The invasion route—“by way of the wilderness of Edom”—is critical to the storyline. Edom was the territory settled by the descendants of the red-haired Esau (Gen 25:25: 36:1, 8). “Edom,” a play on the word adorn (DIN, “red”), was epitomized by the reddish soil and rock of its wilderness.

By taking a circuitous approach to Moab, the invading armies must cross desert terrain without water (3:9). Jehoshaphat called the wilderness wandering prophet Elisha for advice (3:11-12). After a testy response to Jehoshaphat’s plea (3:13-14), Elisha received word from Yahweh: God would supply the armies with water (3:16-17). It would appear—without rain—in a streambed that was presently bone dry. Elisha had even better news: “This is a light thing in the sight of the Lord. He will also give the Moabites into your hand” (3:18).

When they arrived at the place of battle, the Moabite soldiers were fooled by the pools of water that appeared red against the ground and the sun’s reflection (3:21-22). They assumed it was blood and that invading armies (often enemies themselves) had erupted in battle against each other (3:23). When the Moabites approached to strip and plunder the dead, they were ambushed by the invading armies.

In desperation, the king of Moab committed a horrible atrocity: “He took his oldest son who was to reign in his place and offered him for a burnt offering on the wall” (3:27). The meaning of the next line is hotly debated: “And there came great wrath against Israel. And they withdrew from him and returned to their own land.” Why did this happen? Why wasn’t Yahweh victorious? After all, Elisha had said God would give the invaders victory (3:18).

In the Old Testament, we read that the Israelites believed the gods of other nations were real, assigned to the nations by Yahweh, who was superior and ruled over all other gods (Deut 32:8-9). They believed these gods were demons—real spiritual beings (Deut 32:17). Given the nature of this worldview, it seems the Israelites were frightened by the sacrifice and lost faith, thinking Moab’s god was angry against them and would empower Moab to win because of the sacrifice.

Elisha had told the kings of Israel and Judah that God would help them. So why had He not? This situation isn’t the first time God promises but chooses not to deliver: God had told the Israelites that they would conquer Canaan under Moses and Joshua, yet they failed because of unbelief (Num 13; Deut 31:1-7: Josh 13:1-5: Judg 1:27-36). Yahweh was not defeated by the god of Moab. He was, and is, ready and able to help His people. But He will not do so if they refuse to believe and act on that belief.

The lessons that make up Theology Thursday on the Wisdom-Trek Podcast for the next couple of years will satisfy the statement, “I Dare You Not to Bore Me with the Bible.” I trust you’ll enjoy them—and, of course, not be bored.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2440 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. We’re diving into the powerful and heartfelt words of Psalm 18, focusing on verses 1 through 6 from the New Living Translation. This psalm is a beautiful expression of gratitude, trust, and reliance on God, penned by David in a moment of reflection on God’s deliverance.

So, grab your walking sticks, and let’s trek together through these inspiring verses.

We start with David’s heartfelt declaration in verses 1 and 2, “I love you, Lord; you are my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety.”

David opens this psalm with a simple yet profound expression of love and devotion to the Lord. He recognizes God as the source of his strength, portraying Him as a rock, fortress, and savior. These metaphors paint a vivid picture of God’s unwavering stability and security in David’s life.

As we reflect on these verses, we’re reminded of the importance of recognizing God’s strength and protection in our own lives. Like David, we can find refuge in God, trusting Him to be our stronghold in times of trouble. This relationship of love and trust in God becomes the foundation upon which we build our lives.

In verse 3, David continues, “I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies.”

David’s experience of calling on the Lord and being saved is a powerful testament to God’s faithfulness. He acknowledges God’s worthiness of praise, attributing his deliverance to the Lord’s intervention. This verse encapsulates the essence of David’s relationship with God—a dynamic interaction where David’s praise and prayers are met with God’s saving power.

This encourages us to cultivate a life of prayer and praise, knowing that our cries for help do not go unnoticed. God is attentive to our pleas, ready to extend His hand of salvation and deliverance. When we face adversities, let us remember to call on the Lord, confident that He hears and responds.

David vividly describes the perilous situations he faced in verses 4 and 5, “The ropes of death entangled me; floods of destruction swept over me. The grave wrapped its ropes around me; death laid a trap in my path.”

These verses convey the intensity of the dangers David encountered. He uses striking imagery of death and destruction, illustrating how close he was to being overwhelmed. The ‘ropes of death’ and ‘floods of destruction’ paint a picture of inescapable peril, while the ‘trap’ laid by death signifies a cunning and persistent threat.

David’s words resonate with anyone who has ever felt trapped or overwhelmed by life’s challenges. These moments of profound vulnerability remind us of our need for a savior. David’s honesty about his struggles invites us to be equally transparent with God, bringing our fears and anxieties before Him.

In verse 6, David shares his response to this distressing situation: “But in my distress I cried out to the Lord; yes, I prayed to my God for help. He heard me from his sanctuary; my cry to him reached his ears.”

Despite the overwhelming circumstances, David turns to God in his distress, crying out for help. This act of turning to God in prayer demonstrates David’s deep trust and dependence on the Lord. What’s remarkable is the assurance that God hears him. David’s cries are not lost in the vastness of the universe; they reach the ears of God.

This verse is a powerful reminder that a compassionate and attentive God hears our prayers. No matter how dire our situation may seem, we can cry out to God with the confidence that He is listening. Our relationship with God is one where we can bring our deepest concerns and know they matter to Him.

As we reflect on these verses, several key lessons emerge that we can apply to our own lives:

Express Your Love for God: Like David, openly express your love and gratitude to God. Acknowledge His strength and protection in your life, recognizing Him as your rock and fortress.

Cultivate a Life of Prayer and Praise: Develop a habit of calling on the Lord in times of trouble and praising Him in all circumstances. Trust that God hears your prayers and is worthy of your praise.

Be Honest About Your Struggles: Don’t be afraid to acknowledge the difficulties you face. Bring your fears, anxieties, and challenges before God, trusting He understands and cares.

Trust in God’s Response: Have confidence that God hears your cries and is attentive to your needs. Even amid overwhelming circumstances, trust that God is working on your behalf.

Find Refuge in God’s Presence: In moments of distress, find refuge in God’s presence. Allow His strength and protection to be your source of comfort and security.

As we apply these lessons to our daily lives, we deepen our relationship with God and strengthen our faith. Expressing our love for God fosters a sense of gratitude and appreciation for His presence in our lives. Cultivating a life of prayer and praise keeps us connected to God, reminding us of His constant care and provision.

Being honest about our struggles allows us to experience God’s compassion and understanding. Trusting in God’s response gives us the courage to face adversity, knowing we are not alone. And finding refuge in God’s presence provides us with the peace and security we need to navigate life’s challenges.

As we conclude our exploration of Psalm 18:1-6, let’s carry these lessons with us on our journey. Love God wholeheartedly, commit to a life of prayer and praise, be honest about your struggles, trust in God’s response, and find refuge in His presence. By doing so, we align ourselves with the timeless wisdom of David’s prayer and live lives that reflect God’s love and faithfulness.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. May these insights from Psalm 18 inspire and strengthen you as you continue your trek through life. Until next time, keep seeking wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!