Today in my reading of the book of Genesis, here is the somewhat disturbing story of Tamar, the daughter-in-law of Judah, the son of Jacob.
Chapter 38 begins with Judah leaving his brothers and seeing a daughter of a Canaanite whose name was Shuah. By her Judah had two sons, one named Er and the other named Onan. After this Shuah bore to Judah another son called Shelah.
In the process of time, Judah took a wife for his firstborn Er, and her name was Tamar. But the bible tells us that Er was "wicked in the sight of the LORD, and the LORD slew him." Judah told his next son Onan to marry Tamar that he should "raise up seed to thy brother." Because Onan knew that any child would not be considered his, he denied Tamar a child by him. But what he did "displeased the LORD: wherefore he slew him also."
Next Judah tells Tamar to stay as a widow in her father's house until his youngest son Shelah reached adulthood, but Judah fears "lest peraventure he die also, as his brethren did" Tamar obeys and went and dwelt in her father's house.
Time passes and Tamar is still in her father's house when she hears that Judah is coming to shear his sheep, so she puts off her widow's garments and veils herself. Next she sits in open view where Judah will pass because "she saw that Shelah was grown, and she was not given unto him to wife."
Friday, November 15, 2019
Thursday, November 14, 2019
Jacob's Daughter Dinah: Choosing the Wrong Path
I am reading through the book of Genesis at this time. Today I read about Dinah, the only daughter of Jacob who was the son of Isaac, who was the son of Abraham. This is a very sad story of what happened to Dinah when she went out on her own from her family. I wrote this piece in 2002 and want to post it here today.
Jacob's Daughter Dinah
Genesis 30:21 "And afterwards she (Jacob's wife Leah) bare a daughter, and called her name Dinah" (judgment)
Genesis 33: 18 "And Jacob came to Shalem, a city of Shechem, which is in the land of Canaan, when he came from Padanaram; and pitched his tent before the city. And he bought a parcel of a field, where he had spread his tent, at the hand of the children of Hamor, Shechem's father, for an hundred pieces of money. "
In Genesis chapter 33 we have the reconciliation of Jacob and Esau who had been separated since Jacob deceived his father Isaac into believing that he was Esau, and thus took the blessing that was meant for Esau. At Jacob's mother Rebekah's urging, Jacob left his home and journeyed to Paddan-aram where Rebekah's family lived. Jacob went there and lodged with Rachel and her family. After 20 years Jacob left with his wives Rachel and Leah, their handmaids, and all his children. Jacob was nervous to meet Esau his brother, but when they do finally meet Esau treats Jacob and his family with kindness and respect, hospitably offering that Jacob should go with Esau to his home to dwell together in unity, (V12) but Jacob deceives Esau one more time into thinking he will follow along after, then he makes the choice to turn in another direction and go to the land of Canaan, where the Israelites do not live. (V13-20). Just as Lot separated from Abraham, and went to the city of Sodom, Jacob will bear the grief of taking things into his own hands instead of following Esau, whom the Lord had graciously restored to him.
Jacob's Daughter Dinah
Genesis 30:21 "And afterwards she (Jacob's wife Leah) bare a daughter, and called her name Dinah" (judgment)
Genesis 33: 18 "And Jacob came to Shalem, a city of Shechem, which is in the land of Canaan, when he came from Padanaram; and pitched his tent before the city. And he bought a parcel of a field, where he had spread his tent, at the hand of the children of Hamor, Shechem's father, for an hundred pieces of money. "
In Genesis chapter 33 we have the reconciliation of Jacob and Esau who had been separated since Jacob deceived his father Isaac into believing that he was Esau, and thus took the blessing that was meant for Esau. At Jacob's mother Rebekah's urging, Jacob left his home and journeyed to Paddan-aram where Rebekah's family lived. Jacob went there and lodged with Rachel and her family. After 20 years Jacob left with his wives Rachel and Leah, their handmaids, and all his children. Jacob was nervous to meet Esau his brother, but when they do finally meet Esau treats Jacob and his family with kindness and respect, hospitably offering that Jacob should go with Esau to his home to dwell together in unity, (V12) but Jacob deceives Esau one more time into thinking he will follow along after, then he makes the choice to turn in another direction and go to the land of Canaan, where the Israelites do not live. (V13-20). Just as Lot separated from Abraham, and went to the city of Sodom, Jacob will bear the grief of taking things into his own hands instead of following Esau, whom the Lord had graciously restored to him.
Friday, November 8, 2019
Bad News and Sharing the Good News
Last Monday was a very trying day for my husband. A few years ago a friend whom he thinks highly of was diagnosed with cancer. Previously the man had undergone surgery and continued on with his busy life. On Monday my husband received a phone call from his friend and learned that his cancer has spread into his lymph nodes and into his back. He is about to undergo radiation and chemotherapy. This was very bad news
Years ago my husband and this man worked together and my husband shared the gospel with him then. But what to do now? But then the next day something wonderful happened.
We have a new neighbour. My husband always hopes for opportunities to share the gospel with neighbours but he thought that it might be difficult to share with this neighbour. The day after hearing about my husband's friend, he was outside talking with the neighbour. I saw them from the window and wondered what they could be talking about for so long. As it turned out, my husband said that an opportunity presented itself from something the neighbour said, and so my husband shared the good news of the gospel with him for about 10 minutes. He was very happy for this opportunity.
The next day he wrote an email to his friend reminding him of the time he shared the gospel with him when they worked together, and reminded him what had been said before. Today my husband heard back from him, and the friend thanked him for his email and for his friendship.
You never know what the day will bring. It just takes a heart that desires to serve the Lord however they are led.
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vcg
Years ago my husband and this man worked together and my husband shared the gospel with him then. But what to do now? But then the next day something wonderful happened.
We have a new neighbour. My husband always hopes for opportunities to share the gospel with neighbours but he thought that it might be difficult to share with this neighbour. The day after hearing about my husband's friend, he was outside talking with the neighbour. I saw them from the window and wondered what they could be talking about for so long. As it turned out, my husband said that an opportunity presented itself from something the neighbour said, and so my husband shared the good news of the gospel with him for about 10 minutes. He was very happy for this opportunity.
The next day he wrote an email to his friend reminding him of the time he shared the gospel with him when they worked together, and reminded him what had been said before. Today my husband heard back from him, and the friend thanked him for his email and for his friendship.
You never know what the day will bring. It just takes a heart that desires to serve the Lord however they are led.
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vcg
Running Away is Not The Answer
Yesterday I deleted this blog for the reason that a very undesirable site has linked itself with The Dappled Path. My response is as it always is, that being flight. I deleted the blog thinking that I had no other recourse but thankfully when you delete a Blogger blog in the spur of the moment, they give you time to change your mind and the blog can be restored as it was by me a few minutes ago.
I have worked years on this blog and was very disheartened and concerned about the undesirable site but I thought this morning, they linked to me, I did not link to them. Their site brings traffic to this blog and since I am trying to show forth the Word of God, perhaps someone who came here from there has read something that touched them. Perhaps they were convicted of their need for the Saviour. Perhaps they were saved by grace through faith in Christ's redeeming precious blood and his taking upon himself the penalty for their sin. I can only hope that this has been the case.
I can do nothing about that site but since they linked to me and not vice versa, I will just carry on. They are not visible on this blog and that is a good thing.
So onward and upward, and as I have said elsewhere, let the Lord God bring to this little blog those for whom it was intended.
_____________________________
vcg
I have worked years on this blog and was very disheartened and concerned about the undesirable site but I thought this morning, they linked to me, I did not link to them. Their site brings traffic to this blog and since I am trying to show forth the Word of God, perhaps someone who came here from there has read something that touched them. Perhaps they were convicted of their need for the Saviour. Perhaps they were saved by grace through faith in Christ's redeeming precious blood and his taking upon himself the penalty for their sin. I can only hope that this has been the case.
I can do nothing about that site but since they linked to me and not vice versa, I will just carry on. They are not visible on this blog and that is a good thing.
So onward and upward, and as I have said elsewhere, let the Lord God bring to this little blog those for whom it was intended.
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vcg
Tuesday, November 5, 2019
Ecclesiastes 2: Trying to Find Fulfillment in Worldly Ways
Ecclesiastes is a very difficult book, but this is what Chapter 2 said to me.
Solomon has come to the conclusion that all earthly things that man does is vanity and vexation of spirit. Chapter 1 ended with Solomon recognizing that in much wisdom, and Solomon received from the LORD God more wisdom than anyone, there is much grief. In knowing and discerning everything around him, this brought much sorrow."
Chapter 2 Solomon embarks on worldly pleasures and labours but finds that all are vanity. Mirth, laughter, "what doeth it?" What good does it do? No good at all. Solomon in V3 "I sought in mine heart to give myself unto wine, and to lay hold on folly, till I might see what was that good for the sons of men, which they should do under the heaven all the days of their life."
V4-10 Solomon lists all the things that he did: He made great works; he built houses, he planted vineyards. He made gardens and orchards. He made pools of water. He got servants and maidens for his house. He had great possessions of great and small cattle above all that were in Jerusalem. He gathered silver and gold, and other treasures. He got men and women singers to entertain him, and musical instruments. He was great and increased in goods more than all that were before him. And his wisdom remained with him. He did not keep anything from him that his eyes desired, he did not withhold himself from any joy. But then the reality came to him - V11 "Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and on the labour that I had laboured to do: and, behold, all was vanity and vexation of spirit, and there was no profit under the sun."
Solomon has come to the conclusion that all earthly things that man does is vanity and vexation of spirit. Chapter 1 ended with Solomon recognizing that in much wisdom, and Solomon received from the LORD God more wisdom than anyone, there is much grief. In knowing and discerning everything around him, this brought much sorrow."
Chapter 2 Solomon embarks on worldly pleasures and labours but finds that all are vanity. Mirth, laughter, "what doeth it?" What good does it do? No good at all. Solomon in V3 "I sought in mine heart to give myself unto wine, and to lay hold on folly, till I might see what was that good for the sons of men, which they should do under the heaven all the days of their life."
V4-10 Solomon lists all the things that he did: He made great works; he built houses, he planted vineyards. He made gardens and orchards. He made pools of water. He got servants and maidens for his house. He had great possessions of great and small cattle above all that were in Jerusalem. He gathered silver and gold, and other treasures. He got men and women singers to entertain him, and musical instruments. He was great and increased in goods more than all that were before him. And his wisdom remained with him. He did not keep anything from him that his eyes desired, he did not withhold himself from any joy. But then the reality came to him - V11 "Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and on the labour that I had laboured to do: and, behold, all was vanity and vexation of spirit, and there was no profit under the sun."
Monday, November 4, 2019
Ecclesiastes Chp 1: All is Vanity
It is important to establish who wrote the book of Ecclesiastes for this book is all about man on this earth, and ends with the duty of the whole matter, and that is to fear God and to keep his commandments. The writer identifies himself as the son of David, king in Jerusalem. It is further shown to be Solomon by V13 and 16, "I gave my heart to seek and search out by wisdom concerning all things that are done under heaven...Lo, I am come to great estate and have gotten more wisdom that all they that have been before me in Jerusalem." 1 Kings 3:9-12 is Solomon asking God for wisdom and God's response: "Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad..and the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee."
Chapter 1:2-3 "Vanity of vanities saith the preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity. What profit hath a man of all his labour which he taketh under sun? One generation passeth away, and another generation cometh: but the earth abideth forever."
What is vanity? According to Websters 1828 dictionary, vanity is emptiness; want of substance to satisfy desire; uncertainty. Man in his fallen state is full of desires but nothing he can gather or buy can truly satisfy him for he is lost. Even though an unsaved person might deny that this is true, they know in their heart that it is true for they desire more and more.
Chapter 1:2-3 "Vanity of vanities saith the preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity. What profit hath a man of all his labour which he taketh under sun? One generation passeth away, and another generation cometh: but the earth abideth forever."
What is vanity? According to Websters 1828 dictionary, vanity is emptiness; want of substance to satisfy desire; uncertainty. Man in his fallen state is full of desires but nothing he can gather or buy can truly satisfy him for he is lost. Even though an unsaved person might deny that this is true, they know in their heart that it is true for they desire more and more.
Send Me!
I had heard of Kanye West's Sunday Services, but didn't know anything about them. I just finished listening to a 12 minute impassioned gospel message by Pastor Adam Tyson at Kanye's Sunday Service in Detroit. I haven't heard such a great salvation message in a long time and wanted to share it here. Mr. Tyson's words at the end quoted Isaiah in response to who would spread the gospel "Send Me!"
Here is the link from YouTube:
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vcg
Here is the link from YouTube:
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vcg
Sunday, November 3, 2019
Psalm 112: The Man With the Reverential Fear of the LORD
Psalm 112, begins with "Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth great in his commandments."
What is this fear? This is a reverential fear, respect and esteem for who God is, our almighty Sovereign. Because of this reverential fear, Christians want to serve God, and not offend him. The Christian delights in reading and applying the word of God.
V4,7-8 - "Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion and righteous. He shall not be afraid of evil tidings:; his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord. His heart is established, he shall not be afraid....."
Sometimes in our daily life, things can get very dark. Persecutions arise from family members who do not believe or appreciate that you are a Christian. Perhaps neighbours shun the gospel you have shared with them. Perhaps some close family members are living a very sinful and self-destructive life. All of these things are very dark but as you give these things over to the Lord, he is gracious, compassionatae and merciful, giving his light to the darkness and giving you peace.
Sometimes we hear on the news or wherever of very evil things, but the Christian is not afraid of what might come, he trusts in the Lord knowing that he has a home in heaven no matter what happens on this earth. He has peace through what comes.
V10 "The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish."
The unsaved do not understand this peace, they think that you are strange and rail against you. But God is in control, and the railings of the unsaved will cease.
_____________________
vcg
What is this fear? This is a reverential fear, respect and esteem for who God is, our almighty Sovereign. Because of this reverential fear, Christians want to serve God, and not offend him. The Christian delights in reading and applying the word of God.
V4,7-8 - "Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion and righteous. He shall not be afraid of evil tidings:; his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord. His heart is established, he shall not be afraid....."
Sometimes in our daily life, things can get very dark. Persecutions arise from family members who do not believe or appreciate that you are a Christian. Perhaps neighbours shun the gospel you have shared with them. Perhaps some close family members are living a very sinful and self-destructive life. All of these things are very dark but as you give these things over to the Lord, he is gracious, compassionatae and merciful, giving his light to the darkness and giving you peace.
Sometimes we hear on the news or wherever of very evil things, but the Christian is not afraid of what might come, he trusts in the Lord knowing that he has a home in heaven no matter what happens on this earth. He has peace through what comes.
V10 "The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish."
The unsaved do not understand this peace, they think that you are strange and rail against you. But God is in control, and the railings of the unsaved will cease.
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vcg
Psalm 108: Be Exalted, O God
Psalm 108, a Psalm of David, is one of praise to God. This is another Psalm from which a beautiful chorus was written. Here is the Psalm in its entirety:
V1-6. O God, my heart is fixed; I will sing and give praise...... Awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. (v 3-5 are the verses on which the chorus is based). I will praise thee, O LORD, among the people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great above the heavens: and thy truth reacheth unto the clouds. Be exalted O God, above the heavens; and thy glory above all the earth; that thy beloved may be delivered: save with thy right hand....)
With his praise, David trusts that as one of God's beloved, he will be delivered from this present evil world, even by God's right hand, the hand of power.
Below is the beautiful chorus Be Exalted O God as sung by the Maranatha singers:
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vcg
V1-6. O God, my heart is fixed; I will sing and give praise...... Awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. (v 3-5 are the verses on which the chorus is based). I will praise thee, O LORD, among the people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great above the heavens: and thy truth reacheth unto the clouds. Be exalted O God, above the heavens; and thy glory above all the earth; that thy beloved may be delivered: save with thy right hand....)
With his praise, David trusts that as one of God's beloved, he will be delivered from this present evil world, even by God's right hand, the hand of power.
Below is the beautiful chorus Be Exalted O God as sung by the Maranatha singers:
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vcg
Saturday, November 2, 2019
Psalm 90: The Eternal LORD
Psalm 90 speaks of the LORD God as eternal, timeless and merciful. This is a Psalm written by Moses.
V1-2 "LORD, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God."
For the believer, the Lord is our dwelling place. We are to set our affection on things above, not on things on the earth (Col 3:2) The believers true dwelling place is heaven. We are just pilgrims passing through this world. V2 speaks of God the creator. He was from everlasting and will be to everlasting, the Sovereign eternal God.
V4 .".a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night."
How can the human mind comprehend this? we cannot. To me this is why it is impossible to try and put current events into God's timetable (as it is the manner of some to do) because we cannot know where we are in God's timetable as it were.
V1-2 "LORD, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God."
For the believer, the Lord is our dwelling place. We are to set our affection on things above, not on things on the earth (Col 3:2) The believers true dwelling place is heaven. We are just pilgrims passing through this world. V2 speaks of God the creator. He was from everlasting and will be to everlasting, the Sovereign eternal God.
V4 .".a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night."
How can the human mind comprehend this? we cannot. To me this is why it is impossible to try and put current events into God's timetable (as it is the manner of some to do) because we cannot know where we are in God's timetable as it were.
Friday, November 1, 2019
Psalm 51: Create in Me a Clean Heart
Psalm 51 is to me one of the most beautiful of Psalms, and is another one from which a chorus was written.
This Psalm was written by David after his sin of adultery with Bathsheba was exposed by the prophet Nathan. His words are ones of sorrow for his sin, and brokenness before the Lord God.
V1-4 "Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest."
This is surely a contrite heart, one which acknowledges his sin, and one which seeks restored fellowship with his Lord. Even though David's sin was first against Bathsheba (for he saw her and sent his men to bring her to him) and secondly to her husband Uriah (whom he had placed in the front of a battle so he would be killed) David's true sin was against God whose commandments David had broken.
This Psalm was written by David after his sin of adultery with Bathsheba was exposed by the prophet Nathan. His words are ones of sorrow for his sin, and brokenness before the Lord God.
V1-4 "Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest."
This is surely a contrite heart, one which acknowledges his sin, and one which seeks restored fellowship with his Lord. Even though David's sin was first against Bathsheba (for he saw her and sent his men to bring her to him) and secondly to her husband Uriah (whom he had placed in the front of a battle so he would be killed) David's true sin was against God whose commandments David had broken.
Psalm 37: Trust the Lord in the Midst of Trials
For the first post in November, here are a few verses and thoughts from Psalm 37:
V1-3 "Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the Lord, and do good.....
These verses say to me that Christians ought not to concern themselves and become anxious about all that goes on in this world of ours. The Lord is in control and we may trust in him to take care of things according to his will. Christians are to trust and to do good as we are led.
V4-5 "Delight thyself also in the Lord, and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass"
As we set our hearts on the Lord, he shall give Christians the desires of our hearts. Now these are desires according to his will for us in an individual way. I do not think however, that a desire for riches or worldly goods are things that are according to God's will.
V1-3 "Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the Lord, and do good.....
These verses say to me that Christians ought not to concern themselves and become anxious about all that goes on in this world of ours. The Lord is in control and we may trust in him to take care of things according to his will. Christians are to trust and to do good as we are led.
V4-5 "Delight thyself also in the Lord, and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass"
As we set our hearts on the Lord, he shall give Christians the desires of our hearts. Now these are desires according to his will for us in an individual way. I do not think however, that a desire for riches or worldly goods are things that are according to God's will.
Thursday, October 31, 2019
Psalm 34: A Psalm of Comfort
Verses 1-8 are David praising the Lord: these verses are offered without comment, just to read and dwell upon.
I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. I sought the LORD and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears….This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
Verses 13 and 14 are very good advice: Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile. Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace and pursue it.
We are to watch our words, think before we speak and measure what we say according to the leading of the word of God. We are not to speak deceitfully or in a cunning and manipulative way. We are to do good and avoid evil, we are to live peaceably as much as is possible.
The next verses are pure comfort to the broken-hearted who calls upon the Lord. V18-19 – The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as are of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.
As in a previous post, the LORD sees the Christian as righteous through the precious blood of Christ which atoned for the sins of the believer.
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vcg
Psalm 12: The Lord and the Flatterer
This morning I have been thinking about Psalm 12. In this Psalm
David is asking for God’s help from those that are flatterers. In my
own life, a flatterer has caused no small amount of pain which was only
overcome by saying once again, ‘Lord, this is in your hands.’. and
keeping silent about the matter.
In V1-2 David is calling out to the Lord. “Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men. They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak.”
According to Websters 1828 dictionary, flattery is false praise; commendation bestowed for the purpose of gaining favor and influence, or to accomplish some purpose. This to me is rather like a spider drawing her prey into her web. Flattery is certainly different from a compliment which is brief and sincere.
But what does V3 say? “The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things.” Thank the Lord that he will take care of these things.
V5 is God’s promise for those to whom the flatterer has spoken. “For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him.” These are comforting words.
Finally David praises the words of the LORD in V6,7 “The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.” At first glance this seems a different subject from the beginning of the Psalm regarding the flatterer. But it is in the reading of God’s Word that peace comes to the heart and comfort to the soul. I thank the LORD that his word has been preserved and will be preserved for ever.
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vcg
In V1-2 David is calling out to the Lord. “Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men. They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak.”
According to Websters 1828 dictionary, flattery is false praise; commendation bestowed for the purpose of gaining favor and influence, or to accomplish some purpose. This to me is rather like a spider drawing her prey into her web. Flattery is certainly different from a compliment which is brief and sincere.
But what does V3 say? “The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things.” Thank the Lord that he will take care of these things.
V5 is God’s promise for those to whom the flatterer has spoken. “For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him.” These are comforting words.
Finally David praises the words of the LORD in V6,7 “The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.” At first glance this seems a different subject from the beginning of the Psalm regarding the flatterer. But it is in the reading of God’s Word that peace comes to the heart and comfort to the soul. I thank the LORD that his word has been preserved and will be preserved for ever.
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vcg
Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Psalm 31: The LORD Our Rock
The Christian can never have peace by doing that which seems right in
their own eyes. The Christian can only have peace by following the
leading of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Psalm 31:1,3 speaks to this: “In
thee, O LORD, do I put my trust; let me never be ashamed: deliver me in
thy righteousness. For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for
thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me.”
V18 spoke to my heart in a time of difficult trial when all I could do was stay silent and trust the Lord to carry me through: “Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous.” Even though I see myself as a sinner saved by grace, the Lord sees me as righteous through the precious blood of Christ which atoned for my sins. The following verses speak to this: Romans 4:5-8 “…to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness even as David also describeth the bessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin.” Those verses bring peace.
V19 speaks of God’s goodness: “Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men”. This fear is a reverential fear of who God is. The Christian is to trust in the Lord before the unsaved, the “sons of men” This is not easy to do, but we have to trust and say “Lord, this is in your hands.”.
David closes Psalm 31 with encouragement. V24 “Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.”
____________________
vcg
V18 spoke to my heart in a time of difficult trial when all I could do was stay silent and trust the Lord to carry me through: “Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous.” Even though I see myself as a sinner saved by grace, the Lord sees me as righteous through the precious blood of Christ which atoned for my sins. The following verses speak to this: Romans 4:5-8 “…to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness even as David also describeth the bessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin.” Those verses bring peace.
V19 speaks of God’s goodness: “Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men”. This fear is a reverential fear of who God is. The Christian is to trust in the Lord before the unsaved, the “sons of men” This is not easy to do, but we have to trust and say “Lord, this is in your hands.”.
David closes Psalm 31 with encouragement. V24 “Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.”
____________________
vcg
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
Psalm 27: The Trusting Heart Has No Fear
Psalm 27 was written by David and V1 is one of the great verses in the bible. "The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"
I used to be a very fearful person, especially afraid of the dark but this before I became a Christian. Those who walk with God shall have no fear because the Lord is with them every step of the way. Through trials and tribulations, through sickness and in health, through troubles which come because you are a Christian and the world, especially unsaved family members, does not accept you, through all these things, the Lord will carry you through.
V12-13 are very personal to me. "......false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breath out cruelty. I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living."
Family members can bring much hurt to the Christian. They certainly have to me. But even though these times have been very painful, the Lord has carried me through as I have given my cares over to him and trusted him by saying 'Lord, this is in your hands."
V14 is full of encouragement for the Christian. "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
_________________________________
vcg
I used to be a very fearful person, especially afraid of the dark but this before I became a Christian. Those who walk with God shall have no fear because the Lord is with them every step of the way. Through trials and tribulations, through sickness and in health, through troubles which come because you are a Christian and the world, especially unsaved family members, does not accept you, through all these things, the Lord will carry you through.
V12-13 are very personal to me. "......false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breath out cruelty. I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living."
Family members can bring much hurt to the Christian. They certainly have to me. But even though these times have been very painful, the Lord has carried me through as I have given my cares over to him and trusted him by saying 'Lord, this is in your hands."
V14 is full of encouragement for the Christian. "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
_________________________________
vcg
Psalm 25: Trust in the Lord.
Psalm 25: A Psalm of Trust
Verses 4-5 are a daily prayer for the Christian’s guidance: “Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.”
David's salvation is personal. He acknowledges God as the author of his salvation. He yearns to know truth, and to follow the path God has chosen for him.
In verses 9 and 10 God promises to guide and teach the meek. According to Websters 1828 dictionary, meek means mild of temper; soft; gentle; not easily provoked or irritated; yielding; given to forbearance under injuries. Oh that we could all be meek.
This is a Psalm written by David, and in V21 he prays that integrity and uprightness preserve him, for he waits on God. Likewise Christians should pray for integrity and uprightness in this world.
Below is a video a youtube with the Maranatha Singers singing Unto Thee O Lord.
_______________________________
vcg
Disclaimer: This post is copied from my blog at Wordpress called Daily in the Word.
Thursday, June 13, 2019
X Marks the Spot
This unusual X was photographed from my back yard this morning. There was a time when I got quite agitated when I saw these "chemtrails" but that was almost 20 years ago. I will say that these distinguish themselves from condensation trails in that they do not disperse quickly like condensation trails do. I used to despair seeing a blue sky turn white but we are having a heat wave where I live and so they do cut down the sun's glare somewhat by the time they spread out.
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
Garden of Gethsemane: Was Jesus Stressed?
Regarding the Lord Jesus when he was on this earth, something that bothers me is when I hear someone say that he was "stressed" in the Garden of Gethsemane and that caused him to sweat great drops of blood. Could the Lord Jesus be stressed? I do not believe so. But what does the bible say?
The Lord Jesus sweat great drops of blood as he prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, just before he was betrayed by Judas Iscariot and arrested. Jesus knew that his hour had come and that he would be soon crucified, shedding his precious blood as atonement for sin, and taking upon himself the penalty for sin, being the Saviour of all those who believe on Jesus and trust him as their own Saviour. Nothing that would happen was a surprise to Jesus, rather it was foreordained.
Monday, June 10, 2019
After a Rain
Here a few photos of part of our perennial garden after a light rain.
First is an ornamental grass which is new this year. It is a Feather Reed Grass and the plumes are beautiful. Outlined in a dark Mauve color, they are lovely in the wind but seem to be quite strong. They should mature nicely through the summer and into fall.
Next is textures in a Hosta. The swirls of the veins, the blue color, the water droplets, all were lovely.
Last is a white peony that has bloomed the past couple of days. It is a miracle that there is a bloom at all because earlier this year I dug up the plant without any care because it seemed there was no new growth this year. After digging it up I noticed that in fact, there were 4 new shoots coming up but they were not ready to emerge through the dirt. I threw the plant in a corner of the yard and forgot about it for a few hours, but later in the day it seemed like I should try it in a different spot. Missing most of its roots, the shoots managed to grow but three of them died. One made it to maturity though, and this is the flower. It is in a sunnier location than it was before and might do better in future.
The peony also has water droplets on it although they are hard to see on a white flower.
Thanks for dropping by my blog.
_____________________________________
vcg
First is an ornamental grass which is new this year. It is a Feather Reed Grass and the plumes are beautiful. Outlined in a dark Mauve color, they are lovely in the wind but seem to be quite strong. They should mature nicely through the summer and into fall.
Next is textures in a Hosta. The swirls of the veins, the blue color, the water droplets, all were lovely.
Last is a white peony that has bloomed the past couple of days. It is a miracle that there is a bloom at all because earlier this year I dug up the plant without any care because it seemed there was no new growth this year. After digging it up I noticed that in fact, there were 4 new shoots coming up but they were not ready to emerge through the dirt. I threw the plant in a corner of the yard and forgot about it for a few hours, but later in the day it seemed like I should try it in a different spot. Missing most of its roots, the shoots managed to grow but three of them died. One made it to maturity though, and this is the flower. It is in a sunnier location than it was before and might do better in future.
The peony also has water droplets on it although they are hard to see on a white flower.
Thanks for dropping by my blog.
_____________________________________
vcg
Search For a Cat: The Final Closed Door
In my last couple of posts I wrote about how a lost cat came to our home and how I was able to find its owner and return the cat. This lead to a search for a cat for me but now the door has been closed and locked, at least at the SPCA.
In my recent search at the local SPCA, I was shown a beautiful 8 year old female cat who greatly reminded me of my previous cat named Pokey, who died in her sleep 8 years ago. It was love at first sight when I saw this cat whose name is "Miss Kitty". I went to the front desk and waited while an application was filled in, but they ask for your driver's license number and it was then that the door was mostly closed for me to adopt her. I was told that since I had surrendered my Sheltie named Belle in 2011, this was considered a "red flag" and it was very unlikely that I would be allowed to adopt Miss Kitty but that he would check with his manager and that I would be contacted the following Monday.
On the drive home I thought about how sad it would be for me to be turned down. I thought I had very little chance of adopting her considering what I had been told, so I made a decision, and that was to cancel my application to adopt rather than be turned down.
What bothers me about all this is that I was told that if a person adopts a pet from the SPCA and it doesn't turn out, they can bring it back. Because of this I don't understand why a person who surrenders a pet (with a very good reason) is "red flagged" because of it.
I can only hope that whoever does adopt Miss Kitty provides her a loving and safe home.
____________________________
vcg
In my recent search at the local SPCA, I was shown a beautiful 8 year old female cat who greatly reminded me of my previous cat named Pokey, who died in her sleep 8 years ago. It was love at first sight when I saw this cat whose name is "Miss Kitty". I went to the front desk and waited while an application was filled in, but they ask for your driver's license number and it was then that the door was mostly closed for me to adopt her. I was told that since I had surrendered my Sheltie named Belle in 2011, this was considered a "red flag" and it was very unlikely that I would be allowed to adopt Miss Kitty but that he would check with his manager and that I would be contacted the following Monday.
On the drive home I thought about how sad it would be for me to be turned down. I thought I had very little chance of adopting her considering what I had been told, so I made a decision, and that was to cancel my application to adopt rather than be turned down.
What bothers me about all this is that I was told that if a person adopts a pet from the SPCA and it doesn't turn out, they can bring it back. Because of this I don't understand why a person who surrenders a pet (with a very good reason) is "red flagged" because of it.
I can only hope that whoever does adopt Miss Kitty provides her a loving and safe home.
____________________________
vcg
Tuesday, May 21, 2019
Encouragement From a Little Bird
Sometimes it is the simplest of things that brings a blessing and I am convinced that at times, God sends birds to encourage me.
My last post concerned a lost cat that wandered into our yard. He was here for a couple of days during which time I became somewhat attached to him, going so far as to give him a name - Buster. But through a tattoo in his ear I was able, reluctantly, to return him to his owner. This brought back memories of my dear departed Pokey, who died in her sleep at four years old, in December of 2011.
I began to search for cats online but since we live on Vancouver Island, i am limited as to the number of shelters in my area. Every time I would see a cat that interested me, it would be updated with "adoption pending." Not only that but being a senior lady, I think that the cat would outlive me, not to mention that I am allergic to cat scratches and we have a little dog that is not used to cats. It seemed that my desire for a cat was not meant to be.
A couple of days ago I was sitting in the back yard thinking of the last "adoption pending" cat while watching the constant activity of the birds coming and going in the yard. As I sat in my chair, I felt a bird land on my shoulder! This was a first. I turned and it left my shoulder to land on the fence a few feet away. It was a little Pine Siskin, a type I have seen only a couple of times in our yard.
Surely this was not an accident. In the bible, in the book of 1 Kings chapter 17, the Lord tells Elijah the prophet to hide by the brook called Cherith, and that he has commanded the ravens to feed Elijah by the brook and "the ravens brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the evening..." (verse 6). God is in control of everything and I believe he sent the little Pine Siskin to encourage me, just as a couple of years ago He sent a hummingbird to hover in front of my face when I was sick and again in our back yard. I asked the Lord if I was going to go to heaven and immediately the hummingbird came in front of my face. Since then I have been feeding the hummingbirds and at times when I am sitting and watching the hummingbird feeder, and praying, a bird will come to the feeder. In the case of wanting a cat, thus far I do not have one but I have the many birds that come to our yard for food and water.
I don't know what is going to happen. Perhaps I will yet find a cat, perhaps it is not the Lord's will for me to have a cat, but I know that as long as we live in this home, I will have the company of the birds and for that I am very thankful.
__________________________
vcg
My last post concerned a lost cat that wandered into our yard. He was here for a couple of days during which time I became somewhat attached to him, going so far as to give him a name - Buster. But through a tattoo in his ear I was able, reluctantly, to return him to his owner. This brought back memories of my dear departed Pokey, who died in her sleep at four years old, in December of 2011.
I began to search for cats online but since we live on Vancouver Island, i am limited as to the number of shelters in my area. Every time I would see a cat that interested me, it would be updated with "adoption pending." Not only that but being a senior lady, I think that the cat would outlive me, not to mention that I am allergic to cat scratches and we have a little dog that is not used to cats. It seemed that my desire for a cat was not meant to be.
A couple of days ago I was sitting in the back yard thinking of the last "adoption pending" cat while watching the constant activity of the birds coming and going in the yard. As I sat in my chair, I felt a bird land on my shoulder! This was a first. I turned and it left my shoulder to land on the fence a few feet away. It was a little Pine Siskin, a type I have seen only a couple of times in our yard.
Surely this was not an accident. In the bible, in the book of 1 Kings chapter 17, the Lord tells Elijah the prophet to hide by the brook called Cherith, and that he has commanded the ravens to feed Elijah by the brook and "the ravens brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the evening..." (verse 6). God is in control of everything and I believe he sent the little Pine Siskin to encourage me, just as a couple of years ago He sent a hummingbird to hover in front of my face when I was sick and again in our back yard. I asked the Lord if I was going to go to heaven and immediately the hummingbird came in front of my face. Since then I have been feeding the hummingbirds and at times when I am sitting and watching the hummingbird feeder, and praying, a bird will come to the feeder. In the case of wanting a cat, thus far I do not have one but I have the many birds that come to our yard for food and water.
I don't know what is going to happen. Perhaps I will yet find a cat, perhaps it is not the Lord's will for me to have a cat, but I know that as long as we live in this home, I will have the company of the birds and for that I am very thankful.
__________________________
vcg
Wednesday, May 15, 2019
Tale of a Lost Cat
I love cats. In 2008 we adopted a beautiful 1 year old female Torbie (Tortoiseshell/Tabby) from a cat rescue. She had been abandoned and was very fearful of people. It took much time and patience but she came to be my sweet and loving companion. It was very tragic for me when she passed away in her sleep at the age of 4. I found her curled up in the cat sleeping position, dead and rigor mortis had set in. After that we bought a puppy and there have been no more cats.
Last Saturday morning I was outside watering the front garden when a beautiful orange tabby walked onto the neighbour's driveway and over to me. He allowed himself to be petted but he was definitely not a cuddly cat. It was a very hot day and he hung out under a cedar hedge beside our home. I put out food and water for him which he gobbled down. Not having any cat food he ate good quality dog food instead. I let him in the back yard where he made himself at home sitting on chairs, even beside me. I let him in the house but he beat up our little Shih Tzu so out he went. I wondered where he came from and had no idea how to find his owner. I contacted the SPCA and was told to contact the local animal control but I did not want to do that, fearing what his outcome would be. Saturday night into Sunday morning he walked around howling as male cats do and woke up the neighbours who were not pleased.
After church on Sunday we went to a pet store and purchased some cat food in case he came back. I told the clerk that it was for a lost cat and she said I should look in his ear for a tattoo to trace the owner. I wondered if he would ever allow me to get close enough to look in his ear if indeed, he came back. I put out the new cat food and early Monday morning we heard him howling again and then I looked out to see him eating the food. I took a few photos of him and went down to pet him and I must say that by now I was getting attached to him, even naming him Buster.
Last Saturday morning I was outside watering the front garden when a beautiful orange tabby walked onto the neighbour's driveway and over to me. He allowed himself to be petted but he was definitely not a cuddly cat. It was a very hot day and he hung out under a cedar hedge beside our home. I put out food and water for him which he gobbled down. Not having any cat food he ate good quality dog food instead. I let him in the back yard where he made himself at home sitting on chairs, even beside me. I let him in the house but he beat up our little Shih Tzu so out he went. I wondered where he came from and had no idea how to find his owner. I contacted the SPCA and was told to contact the local animal control but I did not want to do that, fearing what his outcome would be. Saturday night into Sunday morning he walked around howling as male cats do and woke up the neighbours who were not pleased.
After church on Sunday we went to a pet store and purchased some cat food in case he came back. I told the clerk that it was for a lost cat and she said I should look in his ear for a tattoo to trace the owner. I wondered if he would ever allow me to get close enough to look in his ear if indeed, he came back. I put out the new cat food and early Monday morning we heard him howling again and then I looked out to see him eating the food. I took a few photos of him and went down to pet him and I must say that by now I was getting attached to him, even naming him Buster.
Monday, May 13, 2019
About Talebearing and Gossip
Last March my husband and I faced a challenge which was bad enough to cause me to go through something like the stages a person goes through when a loved one dies. These stages are shock, denial, sadness, anger and then acceptance. But this challenge came from people it should not have come from, that being not only fellow Christians, but also neighbours.
The challenge was that a private matter between us was taken by them to the leaders of the little church we attend. Emails were shared and charges made against us, but of course, the whole story was not told. My husband and I were told that we had to meet with the leaders of the church due to this "matter of concern". My husband answered that this was a private matter between us and had nothing to do with the church and that we would not be meeting with anyone, and we made the decision to keep our mouths closed regarding this matter, that we would not be talking to anyone about it and that we would trust the Lord to carry us through. As the months have passed since then, there have been no problems for us at the church, and in fact, the couple involved have left.
What does the bible say about talebearing and gossip? How are Christians supposed to respond? After this happened I read the book of Proverbs and it has much to say on the subject:
Proverbs 13:3 "He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction."
Proverbs 18:8 "The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly."
Proverbs 18:10 "The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
Proverbs 10:19 ".....he that restraineth his lips is wise."
Proverbs 11:9 "An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered."
Proverbs 11:12-13 "He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful sprit concealeth the matter."
There are many more verses regarding this matter, the wisdom of keeping one's mouth closed.
I am sharing about this because if you ever find yourself in a similar situation, follow the words of Proverbs, trust the Lord, keep your mouth closed and wait until it passes. It will be difficult, but the Lord will carry you through.
_________________________
vcg
The challenge was that a private matter between us was taken by them to the leaders of the little church we attend. Emails were shared and charges made against us, but of course, the whole story was not told. My husband and I were told that we had to meet with the leaders of the church due to this "matter of concern". My husband answered that this was a private matter between us and had nothing to do with the church and that we would not be meeting with anyone, and we made the decision to keep our mouths closed regarding this matter, that we would not be talking to anyone about it and that we would trust the Lord to carry us through. As the months have passed since then, there have been no problems for us at the church, and in fact, the couple involved have left.
What does the bible say about talebearing and gossip? How are Christians supposed to respond? After this happened I read the book of Proverbs and it has much to say on the subject:
Proverbs 13:3 "He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction."
Proverbs 18:8 "The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly."
Proverbs 18:10 "The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
Proverbs 10:19 ".....he that restraineth his lips is wise."
Proverbs 11:9 "An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered."
Proverbs 11:12-13 "He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful sprit concealeth the matter."
There are many more verses regarding this matter, the wisdom of keeping one's mouth closed.
I am sharing about this because if you ever find yourself in a similar situation, follow the words of Proverbs, trust the Lord, keep your mouth closed and wait until it passes. It will be difficult, but the Lord will carry you through.
_________________________
vcg
Wednesday, February 27, 2019
John 20: 1-31 - The Resurrection of Jesus
My last post was about the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus Christ, when he shed his precious blood to atone for sin, and when he took upon himself the penalty for sin by which all those who put their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ to be their Saviour are saved. In this post, Jesus is risen from the tomb and witnessed by Mary Magdalene and his disciples. Chapter 20 begins with Mary Magdalene coming early to the sepulchre.
V1-10 On the first day of the week when it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb where Jesus was laid and saw that the stone which had sealed the opening was taken away. Then she ran and came to Simon Peter and to "the other disciple whom Jesus loved" (this is the apostle John who wrote this gospel, he never refers to himself by name) and said to them "they have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him." The "we" are the other ladies who went to the tomb with Mary Magdalene. They supposed that someone had stolen the body of Jesus. So Peter and John ran together, and John got to the tomb first but did not enter. From the entrance he saw the linen cloths that Jesus had been wrapped in. Peter arrived, and being of a bolder nature, entered the tomb and saw the linen cloths lying, but the napkin that had been wound around the head of Jesus was not lying with the other cloths, but was wrapped together in a place by itself. Then John came in and saw, and believed that Jesus was gone. But as yet they did not know that Jesus must rise from the dead, and they went back home.
V1-10 On the first day of the week when it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb where Jesus was laid and saw that the stone which had sealed the opening was taken away. Then she ran and came to Simon Peter and to "the other disciple whom Jesus loved" (this is the apostle John who wrote this gospel, he never refers to himself by name) and said to them "they have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him." The "we" are the other ladies who went to the tomb with Mary Magdalene. They supposed that someone had stolen the body of Jesus. So Peter and John ran together, and John got to the tomb first but did not enter. From the entrance he saw the linen cloths that Jesus had been wrapped in. Peter arrived, and being of a bolder nature, entered the tomb and saw the linen cloths lying, but the napkin that had been wound around the head of Jesus was not lying with the other cloths, but was wrapped together in a place by itself. Then John came in and saw, and believed that Jesus was gone. But as yet they did not know that Jesus must rise from the dead, and they went back home.
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