A new beginning when two become one:
Jewish Law requires little in the way of official ceremonies, and doesn't even require the presence of a rabbi or other clergyman at a wedding. Rather Jewish Law requires only that two witnesses who meet certain criteria be present.
The wedding ceremony itself often takes places outdoors under a chuppah (bridal canopy), usually a cloth covering held aloft by four poles, which symbolizes the home the couple builds together. The tradition of being married under the open sky says that "our home is subject to nature" and stresses the couple's faith in G-d's protection.
The bride is the last to join the wedding party under the chuppah. As she does, she walks in a circle around the groom seven times (G-d’s perfect number).
The groom is now the center of her world and she is the center of his.
If they choose to have a rabbi there, the rabbi then recites the blessing over the wine and a (prenuptial blessing), after which the bride and groom drink from the wine.
There is no actual exchange of vows in a traditional Jewish ceremony; the covenant is said to be implicit in the ritual. Only the groom speaks his vows, the marriage vow is customarily sealed when the groom places a ring on his bride's finger and says:
"Behold, you are consecrated to me with this ring according to the Laws of Moses.
With this ring, you are made holy to me, for I love you as my soul. You are now my wife.” The groom opens his prayer shawl by extending his arm around his wife, letting her know he is her covering, provider, and protector.
She is now set aside for him, and he for her.
Variations may now apply like doing the Salt Covent.
If not the Rabbi, or seven people present, says the seven blessings over them:
The seven wedding blessings
Blessed art thou, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, creator of the fruit of the grapevine.
Blessed art thou, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, who created all things for His glory.
Blessed art thou, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, who created humanity.
Blessed art thou, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, who created man in His image, in the image set forth by His plan, and who prepared from Himself a helpmeet to last for all time. Blessed art thou, L-rd our G-d, Creator of humanity.
Blessed art thou, L-rd our G-d, who rejoices in His children.
May You grant great joy to these dearly beloved, just as You granted happiness to the work of Your hands long ago in the Garden of Eden. Blessed art thou, L-rd our
G-d, who grants joy to the bridegroom and bride.
Blessed art thou, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, who created bridegroom and bride, rejoicing in song, love and harmony, peace and fellowship. Soon, O L-rd our
G-d, may there be heard in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem, a sound of gladness, a sound of joy, as the sound of the Bridegroom coming for His own bride. Blessed are You, O G-d, who grants joy to this bridegroom with his bride.
Following the reading, the couple drinks a second cup of wine. The groom then smashes a glass, wrapped in a cloth, signifying the convent between them is completed.
They are greeted by a chorus of "Mazel Tovs" (Congratulations’!)
Tradition states that the bride and groom are to be alone for seven days; to become one before the man has to return to his trade.
Elders
[1 Pet. 5:1] The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of HaMashiach, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:
The idea of the elder came into church life from Jewish culture (Exodus 3:16, 12:21, 19:7). The word "elder" simply speaks of the maturity and wisdom that an older person should have, making them qualified for leadership. One could not even become an elder until they were at least 30 years old with the experiences life has taught. In its application, it is more about wisdom and maturity than age.
It was the practice of Paul and Barnabas to appoint elders in the churches they had founded (Acts 14:23). There was also the development of the office of pastor, who was essentially a teaching elder (1 Timothy 5:17) who appointed and guided elders and other leaders (1 Timothy 3:1-13, 2 Timothy 2:2, Titus 1:5-9).
Those whose office it is to teach others ought carefully to study their own duty, as well as teach the people theirs.
Peter is qualified to speak because he is a fellow elder. Though Peter was clearly the prominent disciple among the twelve, he claims no special privilege or position.
Peter saw both suffering and glory in the life of Y’Shua, he can speak with the authority of an eyewitness. His higher dignity as an apostle is herein delicately implied, as eye witnessing was a necessary qualification for apostleship: compare Peter's own speeches, Acts 1:21, 22; 2:32; 10:39. That is why the Hebrews did not accept Paul as an apostle of the Messiah, so Paul went to the Gentiles.
And elder is to feed the flock promptly and heartily, without selfish motive of gain seeking, as the Israelites gave their services willing-heartedly to the sanctuary. It is important for shepherds - pastors - to realize that they lead Y’Shua' sheep. He is the Shepherd, He is the Overseer, the shepherd doesn't work for the sheep, and he works for the Chief Shepherd.
We are proud of our humility, vain of our meekness; and, putting on the saintliest look; we wonder whether all around are not admiring us for our lowliness. True humility is shown by our ability to cast our care upon G-d. It is proud presumption to take things into our own worry and care about things that G-d has promised to take care of (Matthew 5:31-34).
The idea of the elder came into church life from Jewish culture (Exodus 3:16, 12:21, 19:7). The word "elder" simply speaks of the maturity and wisdom that an older person should have, making them qualified for leadership. One could not even become an elder until they were at least 30 years old with the experiences life has taught. In its application, it is more about wisdom and maturity than age.
It was the practice of Paul and Barnabas to appoint elders in the churches they had founded (Acts 14:23). There was also the development of the office of pastor, who was essentially a teaching elder (1 Timothy 5:17) who appointed and guided elders and other leaders (1 Timothy 3:1-13, 2 Timothy 2:2, Titus 1:5-9).
Those whose office it is to teach others ought carefully to study their own duty, as well as teach the people theirs.
Peter is qualified to speak because he is a fellow elder. Though Peter was clearly the prominent disciple among the twelve, he claims no special privilege or position.
Peter saw both suffering and glory in the life of Y’Shua, he can speak with the authority of an eyewitness. His higher dignity as an apostle is herein delicately implied, as eye witnessing was a necessary qualification for apostleship: compare Peter's own speeches, Acts 1:21, 22; 2:32; 10:39. That is why the Hebrews did not accept Paul as an apostle of the Messiah, so Paul went to the Gentiles.
And elder is to feed the flock promptly and heartily, without selfish motive of gain seeking, as the Israelites gave their services willing-heartedly to the sanctuary. It is important for shepherds - pastors - to realize that they lead Y’Shua' sheep. He is the Shepherd, He is the Overseer, the shepherd doesn't work for the sheep, and he works for the Chief Shepherd.
We are proud of our humility, vain of our meekness; and, putting on the saintliest look; we wonder whether all around are not admiring us for our lowliness. True humility is shown by our ability to cast our care upon G-d. It is proud presumption to take things into our own worry and care about things that G-d has promised to take care of (Matthew 5:31-34).
Called 'Christian'
[1 Peter 4:16] Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, …
Christian was the name given in contempt first at Antioch. Acts 11:26; 26:28; the only three places where the term occurs. At first believers had no distinctive name, but were called among themselves "brethren," Acts 6:3; "disciples," Acts 6:1; "those of the way," Acts 9:2; "saints," Ro mans 1:7; by the Jews (who denied that Y’Shua was the Messiah, and so would never invent the name Christian), in contempt, "Nazarenes." At Antioch, where first idolatrous Gentiles (Cornelius, Acts 10:1, 2, was not an idolater, but a proselyte) were converted, and wide missionary work began, they could be no longer looked on as a Jewish sect, and so the Gentiles designated them by the new name "Christians." The rise of the new name marked a new era in the Church's life, a new stage of its development, namely, its missions to the Gentiles. The idle and witty people of Antioch, we know from heathen writers, were famous for inventing nicknames. The date of this Epistle must have been when this had become the generally recognized designation among Gentiles (it is never applied by Christians to each other, as it was in after ages.--an undersigned proof that the New Testament was composed when it professes). When the name exposed one to reproach and suffering, though not seemingly as yet to systematic persecution.
Christian was the name given in contempt first at Antioch. Acts 11:26; 26:28; the only three places where the term occurs. At first believers had no distinctive name, but were called among themselves "brethren," Acts 6:3; "disciples," Acts 6:1; "those of the way," Acts 9:2; "saints," Ro mans 1:7; by the Jews (who denied that Y’Shua was the Messiah, and so would never invent the name Christian), in contempt, "Nazarenes." At Antioch, where first idolatrous Gentiles (Cornelius, Acts 10:1, 2, was not an idolater, but a proselyte) were converted, and wide missionary work began, they could be no longer looked on as a Jewish sect, and so the Gentiles designated them by the new name "Christians." The rise of the new name marked a new era in the Church's life, a new stage of its development, namely, its missions to the Gentiles. The idle and witty people of Antioch, we know from heathen writers, were famous for inventing nicknames. The date of this Epistle must have been when this had become the generally recognized designation among Gentiles (it is never applied by Christians to each other, as it was in after ages.--an undersigned proof that the New Testament was composed when it professes). When the name exposed one to reproach and suffering, though not seemingly as yet to systematic persecution.
Suffering With Patients
[1 Peter 4:1] Forasmuch then as HaMashiach hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;
In the last days, Believers should have an attitude of commitment. We must bear our trials, notwithstanding our persecutions, following the example of our Savior. Peter would have us pure and harmless, patient and submissive, faithful in the performance of our duties, and confidently looking forward to the time when we should be delivered.
Having the same mind of suffering with patient willingness what G-d wills us to suffer. Y’Shua communicated the same idea when He told us that anyone who would come after Him must take up his cross and follow (Matthew 16:24). Taking up the cross-meant that you were committed and not looking back!
Arm yourself with the same mind: Many of us are defeated in our battle against sin because we refuse to sacrifice anything in the battle. We only want victory if it comes easily to us. Y’Shua called us to have the kind of attitude that would sacrifice in the battle against sin (Matthew 5:29-30).
G-d calls us to have is nothing isn't greater than the commitment Y’Shua had in enduring suffering for our salvation. In the last days, we need to have a commitment to G-d that will endure through great struggles.
Having a readiness to suffer in the cause of religion, a readiness to die as He had done this readiness to suffer and die, the apostle speaks of as amour, and having this is represented as being armed. Amour is put on for offensive or defensive purposes in war; and the idea of the apostle here is, that that state of mind when we are ready to meet with persecution and trial. When we are ready to die, will answer the purpose of amour in engaging in the conflicts and strife’s which pertain to us as Believers, and especially in meeting with persecutions and trials. We are to put on the same fortitude which the Y’Shua had, and this will be the best defense against our foes, and the best security of victory.
When a person has suffered physical persecution for the sake of Y’Shua, it almost always profoundly changes their outlook regarding sin and the pursuit of the lusts of the flesh. He is more likely to live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of G-d.
Many Believers who believe that Y’Shua is coming soon are basing when on prophecy charts and political events; fail to watchful of measuring our readiness for His coming. It is a profound, and foolish, waste of time for Believers to live like the world, and we must simply stop being double-minded and start living as Believers.
As we serve one another, we do it with the strength G-d provides, the ability which G-d supplies - so that to Him belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever.
In the last days, Believers should have an attitude of commitment. We must bear our trials, notwithstanding our persecutions, following the example of our Savior. Peter would have us pure and harmless, patient and submissive, faithful in the performance of our duties, and confidently looking forward to the time when we should be delivered.
Having the same mind of suffering with patient willingness what G-d wills us to suffer. Y’Shua communicated the same idea when He told us that anyone who would come after Him must take up his cross and follow (Matthew 16:24). Taking up the cross-meant that you were committed and not looking back!
Arm yourself with the same mind: Many of us are defeated in our battle against sin because we refuse to sacrifice anything in the battle. We only want victory if it comes easily to us. Y’Shua called us to have the kind of attitude that would sacrifice in the battle against sin (Matthew 5:29-30).
G-d calls us to have is nothing isn't greater than the commitment Y’Shua had in enduring suffering for our salvation. In the last days, we need to have a commitment to G-d that will endure through great struggles.
Having a readiness to suffer in the cause of religion, a readiness to die as He had done this readiness to suffer and die, the apostle speaks of as amour, and having this is represented as being armed. Amour is put on for offensive or defensive purposes in war; and the idea of the apostle here is, that that state of mind when we are ready to meet with persecution and trial. When we are ready to die, will answer the purpose of amour in engaging in the conflicts and strife’s which pertain to us as Believers, and especially in meeting with persecutions and trials. We are to put on the same fortitude which the Y’Shua had, and this will be the best defense against our foes, and the best security of victory.
When a person has suffered physical persecution for the sake of Y’Shua, it almost always profoundly changes their outlook regarding sin and the pursuit of the lusts of the flesh. He is more likely to live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of G-d.
Many Believers who believe that Y’Shua is coming soon are basing when on prophecy charts and political events; fail to watchful of measuring our readiness for His coming. It is a profound, and foolish, waste of time for Believers to live like the world, and we must simply stop being double-minded and start living as Believers.
As we serve one another, we do it with the strength G-d provides, the ability which G-d supplies - so that to Him belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever.
New Years Resolution
[Jer. 6:16] Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls.
Let us observe the metaphor, a traveler is going to a particular city; he comes to a place where the road divides into several paths, he is afraid of going astray; he stops short,-endeavors to find out the right path: he cannot fix his choice. At last, he sees another traveler; he inquires of him, gets proper directions-proceeds on his journey-arrives at the desired place-and reposes after his fatigue.
The image from travelers’ who have lost their road, stopping and inquiring which is the right way on which they once had been, but from which they have wandered.
Old paths of idolatry and apostasy are the modern way. The worship of G-d is the old way. Evil is not coeval with good, but a modern decadence from good.
The soul needs rest; it can only find this by walking in the good way.
The good way is that which has been trodden by the Believers from the beginning: it is the old way, the way of faith and holiness. BELIEVE, LOVE, OBEY, be holy, and be happy. This is the way; let us inquire for it, and walk in it.
If one chooses another way, walked over the precipice, and fell into the bottomless pit, where, instead of rest, they find G-d answer:
[19] Hear, O earth: behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto My Words, nor to My Law, but rejected it.
I am not one to make New Year resolutions, but ran across this during my studies. It all comes down to the choices we make as to which path we choose to take.
Let us observe the metaphor, a traveler is going to a particular city; he comes to a place where the road divides into several paths, he is afraid of going astray; he stops short,-endeavors to find out the right path: he cannot fix his choice. At last, he sees another traveler; he inquires of him, gets proper directions-proceeds on his journey-arrives at the desired place-and reposes after his fatigue.
The image from travelers’ who have lost their road, stopping and inquiring which is the right way on which they once had been, but from which they have wandered.
Old paths of idolatry and apostasy are the modern way. The worship of G-d is the old way. Evil is not coeval with good, but a modern decadence from good.
The soul needs rest; it can only find this by walking in the good way.
The good way is that which has been trodden by the Believers from the beginning: it is the old way, the way of faith and holiness. BELIEVE, LOVE, OBEY, be holy, and be happy. This is the way; let us inquire for it, and walk in it.
If one chooses another way, walked over the precipice, and fell into the bottomless pit, where, instead of rest, they find G-d answer:
[19] Hear, O earth: behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto My Words, nor to My Law, but rejected it.
I am not one to make New Year resolutions, but ran across this during my studies. It all comes down to the choices we make as to which path we choose to take.
Lower Cholesterol
Day 1 menu
Breakfast
1 cup cooked oatmeal, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon cinnamon and chopped walnuts
1 banana
1 cup skim milk
Lunch
1 cup low-fat (1 percent or lower) plain yogurt with 1 teaspoon ground flaxseed
1/2 cup peach halves
5 Melba toast crackers
1 cup raw broccoli and cauliflower
2 tablespoons low-fat cream cheese, plain or vegetable flavor (as a spread for crackers or vegetable dip)
Sparkling water
Supper
Grilled turkey burger (4 ounces) with a whole-grain bun
1/2 cup green beans with toasted almonds
2 cups mixed salad greens
2 tablespoons low-fat salad dressing
1 tablespoon sunflower seeds
1 cup skim milk
1 small orange
Snack
1 cup skim milk
9 animal crackers
Day 1 nutrient analysis
Calories 1,637
Protein 85 g
Carbohydrate 245 g
Total fat 43 g
Saturated fat 9 g
Monounsaturated fat 14 g
Cholesterol 101 mg
Sodium 1,545 mg
Fiber 30 g
Potassium 4,290 mg
Calcium 1,887 mg
Day 2 menu
Breakfast
2 whole-wheat pancakes, 4-inch diameter, topped with 3/4 cup blueberries
3/4 cup calcium-fortified orange juice
1 cup skim milk
Lunch
1 whole-wheat pita stuffed with 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce, 1/2 cup sliced tomato, 1/4 cup sliced cucumber, 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese and 1 tablespoon reduced-fat ranch dressing
1 kiwi
1 cup skim milk
Supper
Oriental chicken (5 ounces) with braised pineapple ring
1 cup brown rice with 1 tablespoon chopped dried apricots
1 cup steamed broccoli
4 ounces red wine or concord grape juice
Snack
3 graham cracker squares
1 cup fat-free frozen yogurt
Day 2 nutrient analysis
Calories 1,757
Protein 89 g
Carbohydrate 288 g
Total fat 22 g
Saturated fat 7 g
Monounsaturated fat 6 g
Cholesterol 119 mg
Sodium 1,966 mg
Fiber 29 g
Potassium 3,876 mg
Calcium 1,338 mg
On both days, if you're thirsty, drink water as a calorie-free way to supplement your diet.
Breakfast
1 cup cooked oatmeal, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon cinnamon and chopped walnuts
1 banana
1 cup skim milk
Lunch
1 cup low-fat (1 percent or lower) plain yogurt with 1 teaspoon ground flaxseed
1/2 cup peach halves
5 Melba toast crackers
1 cup raw broccoli and cauliflower
2 tablespoons low-fat cream cheese, plain or vegetable flavor (as a spread for crackers or vegetable dip)
Sparkling water
Supper
Grilled turkey burger (4 ounces) with a whole-grain bun
1/2 cup green beans with toasted almonds
2 cups mixed salad greens
2 tablespoons low-fat salad dressing
1 tablespoon sunflower seeds
1 cup skim milk
1 small orange
Snack
1 cup skim milk
9 animal crackers
Day 1 nutrient analysis
Calories 1,637
Protein 85 g
Carbohydrate 245 g
Total fat 43 g
Saturated fat 9 g
Monounsaturated fat 14 g
Cholesterol 101 mg
Sodium 1,545 mg
Fiber 30 g
Potassium 4,290 mg
Calcium 1,887 mg
Day 2 menu
Breakfast
2 whole-wheat pancakes, 4-inch diameter, topped with 3/4 cup blueberries
3/4 cup calcium-fortified orange juice
1 cup skim milk
Lunch
1 whole-wheat pita stuffed with 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce, 1/2 cup sliced tomato, 1/4 cup sliced cucumber, 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese and 1 tablespoon reduced-fat ranch dressing
1 kiwi
1 cup skim milk
Supper
Oriental chicken (5 ounces) with braised pineapple ring
1 cup brown rice with 1 tablespoon chopped dried apricots
1 cup steamed broccoli
4 ounces red wine or concord grape juice
Snack
3 graham cracker squares
1 cup fat-free frozen yogurt
Day 2 nutrient analysis
Calories 1,757
Protein 89 g
Carbohydrate 288 g
Total fat 22 g
Saturated fat 7 g
Monounsaturated fat 6 g
Cholesterol 119 mg
Sodium 1,966 mg
Fiber 29 g
Potassium 3,876 mg
Calcium 1,338 mg
On both days, if you're thirsty, drink water as a calorie-free way to supplement your diet.
Individual Responsibility
RESPONSIBILITY calls for ACCOUNTABILITY. We must understand that without responsibility there is no accountability, and without accountability there can be no responsibility. These two concepts are inseparably tied together. One should not talk of responsibilities apart from accountability. There is no such thing!
Accountability suggests "a day of reckoning”. This is when one who has been entrusted with responsibilities must give an account to the authoritative source
(G-d). The scriptures call this THE JUDGMENT.
The New Testament is filled with this teaching. In the Parable of the Talents, Matthew 25:14-30, Y’Shua taught the great lesson of stewardship. We are impressed with the fact that a man, before going into another country, called his servants together and distributed his goods. "And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one. It becomes evident from the reading that this man expected his servants to do something with the talents rendered to them. "Now after a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and makes a RECKONING with them”, (v. 19). Remember the one with only one talent, he buried it – sat on it and did nothing of what the master had given him to be responsible for.
The L-rd was pleased with those who performed adequately, but was angry at the slothful servant who had failed in his responsibility. The L-rd cast out the unprofitable servant!
It is obvious from this parable that our L-rd is teaching responsibility according to ability, coupled with the idea of accountability. He held these servants responsible for what had been entrusted to them, individually, relative to their ability.
All that we have whether it is a house, yard, car, or pets and people in our lives we are held accountable to do our very best with what was given us. If not it can be all taken away like the man with only one talent.
There was a day of reckoning when the master returned and called his servants to him. He demanded an accounting from each servant as to what was accomplished while he was in another country. This parable is not difficult to understand, and most Bible students agree that we have a case of individual responsibility here.
In a similar parable, the Parable of the Pounds, Y’Shua taught the same principles. Read Luke 19:11-27. Here, we see servants charged with responsibility, which led to accountability, terminating in reckoning. Again, there is no "church" responsibility or accountability, only individual.
Let’s not forget He also told them to be a wise as serpents, while being harmless as doves. And He told story after story of being wise stewards and of being held accountable for what we do with the things we are given. Paul writes in 1Timothy 5:8 that he who does not take care of his own household is worse than an unbeliever, or an infidel!
Matt. 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve
G-d and mammon.
Here is another responsibility, we are to use G-d’s money wisely, Matt. 6:19-21 says. Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Has money become your idol, do you lack trusting the Father to provide?
Are you taking good care of what the Father has given you?
It is never too late to change the patterns you have fell into and become good stewards.Or come along side of another and help them make life choices.
Accountability suggests "a day of reckoning”. This is when one who has been entrusted with responsibilities must give an account to the authoritative source
(G-d). The scriptures call this THE JUDGMENT.
The New Testament is filled with this teaching. In the Parable of the Talents, Matthew 25:14-30, Y’Shua taught the great lesson of stewardship. We are impressed with the fact that a man, before going into another country, called his servants together and distributed his goods. "And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one. It becomes evident from the reading that this man expected his servants to do something with the talents rendered to them. "Now after a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and makes a RECKONING with them”, (v. 19). Remember the one with only one talent, he buried it – sat on it and did nothing of what the master had given him to be responsible for.
The L-rd was pleased with those who performed adequately, but was angry at the slothful servant who had failed in his responsibility. The L-rd cast out the unprofitable servant!
It is obvious from this parable that our L-rd is teaching responsibility according to ability, coupled with the idea of accountability. He held these servants responsible for what had been entrusted to them, individually, relative to their ability.
All that we have whether it is a house, yard, car, or pets and people in our lives we are held accountable to do our very best with what was given us. If not it can be all taken away like the man with only one talent.
There was a day of reckoning when the master returned and called his servants to him. He demanded an accounting from each servant as to what was accomplished while he was in another country. This parable is not difficult to understand, and most Bible students agree that we have a case of individual responsibility here.
In a similar parable, the Parable of the Pounds, Y’Shua taught the same principles. Read Luke 19:11-27. Here, we see servants charged with responsibility, which led to accountability, terminating in reckoning. Again, there is no "church" responsibility or accountability, only individual.
Let’s not forget He also told them to be a wise as serpents, while being harmless as doves. And He told story after story of being wise stewards and of being held accountable for what we do with the things we are given. Paul writes in 1Timothy 5:8 that he who does not take care of his own household is worse than an unbeliever, or an infidel!
Matt. 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve
G-d and mammon.
Here is another responsibility, we are to use G-d’s money wisely, Matt. 6:19-21 says. Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Has money become your idol, do you lack trusting the Father to provide?
Are you taking good care of what the Father has given you?
It is never too late to change the patterns you have fell into and become good stewards.Or come along side of another and help them make life choices.
Franklin Reality Model
All humans have four basic categories of needs: A person's system of beliefs constitutes that person's philosophy. Any guiding principle that provides a sense of certainty about meaning and direction in life meets the definition of a belief. Beliefs act as a person's prearranged, organized filters to his perceptions of the world. Humans form beliefs early in their lives because they are necessary for human survival. People make observations and draw conclusions that should serve them later. Any unhealthy addictions like overeating, drinking, or smoking, that people develop as any behavior that produces short-term pleasure at the expense of long-term pain to the addict or those around the addict. Rules about what his Behavior should be in a given situation and act accordingly. He then observes the Results he produces and the Feedback given to his brain, which must determine whether the belief satisfied the believer's fundamental Needs. If the answer is "Yes," the belief gets reinforced. Otherwise, the belief erodes.
One of the natural laws this model reveals states that results take time to measure. History offers lessons to those willing to learn them. Placing widely practiced principles of the past onto the Belief Window of the Reality Model and then testing them intellectually provide instant lessons and insight into how ideas and philosophy influence history. Likewise, one can test one's Governing Values to learn whether they affirm or deny one's own unique Needs as a human being over time.
Four basic needs are to live (survival), to love and be loved, to experience variety, and to feel important.
Live
Love/be loved
Feel important > Core intentions > Actions > Results
Variety
To meet your basic need each day it has to pass through your core intentions.
Example: my need today, is to feel important to the Father in being used for His work and my intention is to pass on what I learn.
Now what action or behavior would I do to accomplish this? Take the time to do the research that I can pass on the knowledge.
After my actions comes the result over a period of time. Did you receive the information and understand it? If not maybe I need to reexamine my actions, or maybe I have to change my core intention, or rethink what my basic need was, to get my basic need meet.
One can use this model for self, or use it to understand another’s need and take the steps to help them to meet it.
David's Resolution
Ps.101 It is an excellent plan or model for the good government of a church, or the keeping up of virtue and piety, and, by that means, good order, in it: but it is applicable to private families; it is the householder's psalm. One should teach, and admonish, and engage themselves and one another to walk by the rule of it that peace may be upon them and
G-d's presence with them.
[1] I will sing of mercy and judgment: unto thee, O LORD, will I sing.
I will praise thee, O L-rd, for Thy mercy and justice, which Thou hast so eminently discovered in the government of the world, and of Thy people; and I will make it my care to copy Thee herein.
When G-d in His providence exercises us with a mixture of mercy and judgment it is our duty to sing, and sing unto Him, both of the one and of the other; we must be suitably affected with both, and make suitable acknowledgments to G-d for both.
Whatever our outward condition is, whether joyful or sorrowful, still we must give glory to G-d, and sing praises to Him; neither the laughter of a prosperous condition nor the tears of an afflicted condition must put us out of tune for sacred songs.
[2] I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
G-d's Law prescribes a perfect way of life; in this perfect way, David has professed to walk, and David must act wisely in order to walk in it. “I can neither walk in this way, nor grow wise unto salvation, unless Thou come unto me by thy grace and Spirit; for without Thee I can do nothing.”
It is easier for most men to walk with a perfect heart in the Church, or even in the world, than in their own families. How many are as meek as lambs among others, when at home they are wasps or tigers! The man who, in the midst of family provocations, maintains a Christian character, being meek, gentle, and long-suffering to his wife, his children, has got a perfect heart, and adorns the doctrine of G-d his Savior in all things.
[3] I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
“I will undertake no unjust wars; will enter into no sinful alliances; and what would lead me away from righteousness and truth, I will never set before my eyes.”
It is the character of a good man that he shuts his eyes from seeing evil, Isaiah 33:15. "Nay, I hate the work of those that turn aside from the paths of equity (Job 31:7), not only I avoid it, but I abhor it; it shall not cleave to me. If any blot of injustice should come on my hands, it shall be washed off quickly."
David’s further resolution was not to keep bad servants, nor to employ those about him that were vicious. David will not countenance them, nor show them any favor, lest thereby he should harden them in their wickedness, and encourage others to do like them. David will not converse with them himself, nor admit them into the company of his other employees, lest they should spread the infection of sin in his family. He will not confide in them, nor put them in power under him; for those who hated to be reformed would certainly hinder every thing that is good.
[4] A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.
Rash and headstrong men shall not be employed by David.
“I will give no countenance to sinners of any kind; and whatever is evil shall be an object of my abhorrence. A froward heart (one that delights to be cross and perverse) shall depart from me, as not fit for society, the bond of which is love. I will not know," that is, "I will have no acquaintance or conversation, if I can help it, with such a wicked person; for a little of the leaven of malice and wickedness will leaven the whole lump.
I will give no countenance to sinners of any kind; and whatever is evil shall be an object of my abhorrence.”
[5] Whoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer.
With slanderers, and those who take a pleasure in wounding their neighbor’s reputation secretly: All flatterers and time-servers, and those who by insinuations and false accusations endeavor to supplant the upright, that they may obtain their offices for themselves or their dependants, will David consider as enemies to the state, and will abominate, and expel them from his court.
He who slanders ruins both himself and him who hear him; and him who are slandered, for this is often the case; the innocent are ruined by detraction.
With haughty, conceited, ambitious people, none do more mischief in a family, in a court, in a church, for only by pride comes contention. “Therefore him that has a high look and a proud heart will I not suffer; I will have no patience with those that are still grasping at all preferment’s, who sticks at nothing to gain it; and one who behaves himself haughtily and insolently in his office. It is certain that they do not aim at doing well, but only at aggrandizing themselves and their families." G-d resists the proud, and so will David.
He that tells lies shall not tarry in David’s sight, but shall be expelled the house with indignation. Herein David was a man after G-d's own heart, for a proud look and a lying tongue are things which G-d hates; and he was also a type of Messiah, who will, in the great day, banish from his presence all that love and make a lie, Revelation 22:15.
[6] Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me.
These faithful ones his eyes shall be upon, to discover them and find them out; for they were modest, lived retired in the land, in the country, out of the way of it. He that walks in a perfect way, that makes conscience of what he says and does, shall serve David.
[7] He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight.
This was a good resolution of David's; but either he did not keep to it or else his judgment was imposed upon when he made Ahithophel his right hand. It should be the care and endeavor of all masters of families, for their own sakes and their children's, to take such servants into their families as they have reason to hope fear G-d.
[8] I will early destroy all the wicked of the land; that I may cut off all wicked doers from the city of the LORD.
“All that are discovered and convicted; the Law shall have its course against them." He would do his utmost to destroy all the wicked, so that there might be none left that were notoriously wicked.
That which Davie aimed at was not only the securing of his own government and the peace of the country, but the honor of G-d in the purity of his church, “That I may cut off all wicked doers from the city of the L-rd.” Not Jerusalem only, but the whole land, was the city of the L-rd; so is the believer’s church. It is the interest of the city of the L-rd to be purged from wicked doers, who both blemish it and weaken it; and it is therefore the duty of all to do what they can, in their places, towards so good a work, and to be zealously affected in it.
In reference to the Church: The city, the seat of government, the place of G-d's altars, must be kept pure. There must be a thorough, a radical reform. No corruption or abuse, either in things political, domestic, or religious, shall be tolerated. All must be holy, as he who has called us is holy. This was a reformation according to G-d's word; not according to the caprice of the multitude.
G-d's presence with them.
[1] I will sing of mercy and judgment: unto thee, O LORD, will I sing.
I will praise thee, O L-rd, for Thy mercy and justice, which Thou hast so eminently discovered in the government of the world, and of Thy people; and I will make it my care to copy Thee herein.
When G-d in His providence exercises us with a mixture of mercy and judgment it is our duty to sing, and sing unto Him, both of the one and of the other; we must be suitably affected with both, and make suitable acknowledgments to G-d for both.
Whatever our outward condition is, whether joyful or sorrowful, still we must give glory to G-d, and sing praises to Him; neither the laughter of a prosperous condition nor the tears of an afflicted condition must put us out of tune for sacred songs.
[2] I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
G-d's Law prescribes a perfect way of life; in this perfect way, David has professed to walk, and David must act wisely in order to walk in it. “I can neither walk in this way, nor grow wise unto salvation, unless Thou come unto me by thy grace and Spirit; for without Thee I can do nothing.”
It is easier for most men to walk with a perfect heart in the Church, or even in the world, than in their own families. How many are as meek as lambs among others, when at home they are wasps or tigers! The man who, in the midst of family provocations, maintains a Christian character, being meek, gentle, and long-suffering to his wife, his children, has got a perfect heart, and adorns the doctrine of G-d his Savior in all things.
[3] I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
“I will undertake no unjust wars; will enter into no sinful alliances; and what would lead me away from righteousness and truth, I will never set before my eyes.”
It is the character of a good man that he shuts his eyes from seeing evil, Isaiah 33:15. "Nay, I hate the work of those that turn aside from the paths of equity (Job 31:7), not only I avoid it, but I abhor it; it shall not cleave to me. If any blot of injustice should come on my hands, it shall be washed off quickly."
David’s further resolution was not to keep bad servants, nor to employ those about him that were vicious. David will not countenance them, nor show them any favor, lest thereby he should harden them in their wickedness, and encourage others to do like them. David will not converse with them himself, nor admit them into the company of his other employees, lest they should spread the infection of sin in his family. He will not confide in them, nor put them in power under him; for those who hated to be reformed would certainly hinder every thing that is good.
[4] A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.
Rash and headstrong men shall not be employed by David.
“I will give no countenance to sinners of any kind; and whatever is evil shall be an object of my abhorrence. A froward heart (one that delights to be cross and perverse) shall depart from me, as not fit for society, the bond of which is love. I will not know," that is, "I will have no acquaintance or conversation, if I can help it, with such a wicked person; for a little of the leaven of malice and wickedness will leaven the whole lump.
I will give no countenance to sinners of any kind; and whatever is evil shall be an object of my abhorrence.”
[5] Whoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer.
With slanderers, and those who take a pleasure in wounding their neighbor’s reputation secretly: All flatterers and time-servers, and those who by insinuations and false accusations endeavor to supplant the upright, that they may obtain their offices for themselves or their dependants, will David consider as enemies to the state, and will abominate, and expel them from his court.
He who slanders ruins both himself and him who hear him; and him who are slandered, for this is often the case; the innocent are ruined by detraction.
With haughty, conceited, ambitious people, none do more mischief in a family, in a court, in a church, for only by pride comes contention. “Therefore him that has a high look and a proud heart will I not suffer; I will have no patience with those that are still grasping at all preferment’s, who sticks at nothing to gain it; and one who behaves himself haughtily and insolently in his office. It is certain that they do not aim at doing well, but only at aggrandizing themselves and their families." G-d resists the proud, and so will David.
He that tells lies shall not tarry in David’s sight, but shall be expelled the house with indignation. Herein David was a man after G-d's own heart, for a proud look and a lying tongue are things which G-d hates; and he was also a type of Messiah, who will, in the great day, banish from his presence all that love and make a lie, Revelation 22:15.
[6] Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me.
These faithful ones his eyes shall be upon, to discover them and find them out; for they were modest, lived retired in the land, in the country, out of the way of it. He that walks in a perfect way, that makes conscience of what he says and does, shall serve David.
[7] He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight.
This was a good resolution of David's; but either he did not keep to it or else his judgment was imposed upon when he made Ahithophel his right hand. It should be the care and endeavor of all masters of families, for their own sakes and their children's, to take such servants into their families as they have reason to hope fear G-d.
[8] I will early destroy all the wicked of the land; that I may cut off all wicked doers from the city of the LORD.
“All that are discovered and convicted; the Law shall have its course against them." He would do his utmost to destroy all the wicked, so that there might be none left that were notoriously wicked.
That which Davie aimed at was not only the securing of his own government and the peace of the country, but the honor of G-d in the purity of his church, “That I may cut off all wicked doers from the city of the L-rd.” Not Jerusalem only, but the whole land, was the city of the L-rd; so is the believer’s church. It is the interest of the city of the L-rd to be purged from wicked doers, who both blemish it and weaken it; and it is therefore the duty of all to do what they can, in their places, towards so good a work, and to be zealously affected in it.
In reference to the Church: The city, the seat of government, the place of G-d's altars, must be kept pure. There must be a thorough, a radical reform. No corruption or abuse, either in things political, domestic, or religious, shall be tolerated. All must be holy, as he who has called us is holy. This was a reformation according to G-d's word; not according to the caprice of the multitude.
A reason, season or lifetime
People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime.
When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person..
When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed.
They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are.
They are there for the reason you need them to be.
Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end.
Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away.
Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand.
What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done.
The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.
Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow, or learn.
They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh.
They may teach you something you have never done.
They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.
Believe it for it is real, but only for a season.
LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation.
Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person, and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life.
It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.
Thank you for being a part of my life,
whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.
Angels exist, only sometimes they haven't got wings and we call them friends; you are one of them.
When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person..
When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed.
They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are.
They are there for the reason you need them to be.
Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end.
Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away.
Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand.
What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done.
The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.
Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow, or learn.
They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh.
They may teach you something you have never done.
They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.
Believe it for it is real, but only for a season.
LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation.
Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person, and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life.
It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.
Thank you for being a part of my life,
whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.
Angels exist, only sometimes they haven't got wings and we call them friends; you are one of them.
Smoke and Mirrors
Smoke And Mirrors, the father of spin is the Advisory!
He has described the public as a 'herd that needed to be led.' And this herd like thinking makes people "susceptible to leadership," from his fundamental saying to "control the masses without their knowing it," This happens with the people unaware that they are being manipulated.
We are the most conditioned, programmed beings the world has ever known. Not only are our thoughts and attitudes continually being shaped and molded; our very awareness of the whole design seems like it is being delicately and relentlessly erased.
The doors of our perception are carefully and precisely keeping pace.
If everybody believes something, it's probably wrong. I call that Conventional Wisdom. This is used with worldly products and within the body of believers, let the Preacher/Teacher do all the studying. This saves believers the trouble of researching the subjects on their own, especially on topics about which they know very little, unless you have done the research yourself, you won't be able to tell the difference. Mob psychology must focus on emotion, not facts. Since the mob is incapable of rational thought, motivation must be based not on logic but on presentation. Words are very carefully chosen for their emotional impact.
1. Trigger words are repeated all through the text, (When I was talking to G-d --)
2. It's basic word association (Scriptural word, but not actually the Scripture.)
3. Form is everything and substance just a passing myth. (Substance of His Word).
4. Speak in glittering generalities using emotionally positive words when covering something up, don't use plain English; stall for time; distract.
(Sickness – not a drunkard, or pre-marital sex not a fornicator.}
5. Get endorsements from celebrities, churches, street people - anyone who has no expertise in the subject at hand. (Do you think it is alright if we ---?)
6. When minimizing outrage, don't say anything memorable, point out the benefits of what just happened, and avoid moral issues. (Don’t step on people toes now.)
7. Dehumanize the student from thinking by labeling. (What would you know about it; for if the pastor, deacon, bishop, prophetesses said it than it must be so.)
The advisory has blind us from what the Father wanted His body to be, we have become a ‘good feeling, fellowship, social group that summarizes the Word without actually reading, teaching the Word. We are looking for signs and wonders, miracles if you please, more than obedience, instruction, and intimacy with Him found in His Word. We have missed the mark in masses, no longer are the altars being used where people cried out for the lost love ones. Let’s hurry and get this over so we can feed the flesh and talk about insufficient things.
Do you need to have your life values constantly spoon-fed to you, a necessary distraction to keep you from looking at reality, or trying to figure things out yourself by doing a little independent reading?
There's no question that as a body, we're getting dumber year by year. These activities allow access to our minds by "just anyone" - anyone who has an agenda, anyone with the resources this is the only life we get. Time is our total capital. Why waste it allowing our potential, our personality, and our values to be shaped, crafted, and limited according to the whims of the panderer?
There are many important issues that are crucial to our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being and they are all found it the Scriptures – the one place the advisory does not want you to go. ...Remember, if everybody knows something, that image has been bought and paid for, but at what price? Real knowledge takes a little effort, a little excavation down at least one level below what "everybody knows to find the truth."
He has described the public as a 'herd that needed to be led.' And this herd like thinking makes people "susceptible to leadership," from his fundamental saying to "control the masses without their knowing it," This happens with the people unaware that they are being manipulated.
We are the most conditioned, programmed beings the world has ever known. Not only are our thoughts and attitudes continually being shaped and molded; our very awareness of the whole design seems like it is being delicately and relentlessly erased.
The doors of our perception are carefully and precisely keeping pace.
If everybody believes something, it's probably wrong. I call that Conventional Wisdom. This is used with worldly products and within the body of believers, let the Preacher/Teacher do all the studying. This saves believers the trouble of researching the subjects on their own, especially on topics about which they know very little, unless you have done the research yourself, you won't be able to tell the difference. Mob psychology must focus on emotion, not facts. Since the mob is incapable of rational thought, motivation must be based not on logic but on presentation. Words are very carefully chosen for their emotional impact.
1. Trigger words are repeated all through the text, (When I was talking to G-d --)
2. It's basic word association (Scriptural word, but not actually the Scripture.)
3. Form is everything and substance just a passing myth. (Substance of His Word).
4. Speak in glittering generalities using emotionally positive words when covering something up, don't use plain English; stall for time; distract.
(Sickness – not a drunkard, or pre-marital sex not a fornicator.}
5. Get endorsements from celebrities, churches, street people - anyone who has no expertise in the subject at hand. (Do you think it is alright if we ---?)
6. When minimizing outrage, don't say anything memorable, point out the benefits of what just happened, and avoid moral issues. (Don’t step on people toes now.)
7. Dehumanize the student from thinking by labeling. (What would you know about it; for if the pastor, deacon, bishop, prophetesses said it than it must be so.)
The advisory has blind us from what the Father wanted His body to be, we have become a ‘good feeling, fellowship, social group that summarizes the Word without actually reading, teaching the Word. We are looking for signs and wonders, miracles if you please, more than obedience, instruction, and intimacy with Him found in His Word. We have missed the mark in masses, no longer are the altars being used where people cried out for the lost love ones. Let’s hurry and get this over so we can feed the flesh and talk about insufficient things.
Do you need to have your life values constantly spoon-fed to you, a necessary distraction to keep you from looking at reality, or trying to figure things out yourself by doing a little independent reading?
There's no question that as a body, we're getting dumber year by year. These activities allow access to our minds by "just anyone" - anyone who has an agenda, anyone with the resources this is the only life we get. Time is our total capital. Why waste it allowing our potential, our personality, and our values to be shaped, crafted, and limited according to the whims of the panderer?
There are many important issues that are crucial to our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being and they are all found it the Scriptures – the one place the advisory does not want you to go. ...Remember, if everybody knows something, that image has been bought and paid for, but at what price? Real knowledge takes a little effort, a little excavation down at least one level below what "everybody knows to find the truth."
I will not be inquired of by you
Then came the word of the L-rd unto Me, saying, Are you come to inquire of Me?
As I live, said the L-rd G-d, I will not be inquired of by you.
Thus said the L-rd G-d; In the day when I chose Israel, and lifted up mine hand unto the seed of the house of Jacob, that I had espied for them, flowing with milk and honey, which is the glory of all the lands:
I fashioned for My name's sake, that it should not be polluted before the heathen, And I gave them My statutes, and showed them My judgments, which if a man do, he shall even live in them. Moreover also I gave them My Sabbaths, to be a sign between them, and Me that they might know that I am the L-rd that sanctify them.
I have given you My chosen, to instruct you, have you followed their ways or adapted your own? Did I not set it all down in the Scriptures what I wanted done? Were you not adopted and grafted in to follow suit?
Now My Sabbaths are greatly polluted: then I said, I would pour out My fury upon all that have not keep it sacred, to consume them, nevertheless mine eye spared you from destroying you, neither did I make an end of you.
I am the L-rd your G-d; walk in My statutes, and keep My judgments, and do them; and hallow My Sabbaths; and you shall be a sign between Me and you, that you may know that I am the L-rd your G-d. Notwithstanding your children rebelled against Me: they walked not in My statutes, neither kept My judgments to do them, which if a man do, he shall even live in them; they polluted My Sabbaths: then I said, I would pour out My fury upon them, to accomplish My anger against them.
And I polluted them in their own gifts, in that they caused to pass through the fire all that opens the womb, that I might make them desolate, to the end that they might know that I am the L-rd. For when you offer your gifts, when you make your sons to pass through the fire, you pollute yourselves with all your idols, even unto this day: and shall I be inquired of by you. No! As I live, said the L-rd G-d, I will not be inquired of by you.
And that which comes into your mind shall not be at all, that you say, As I live, said the L-rd G-d, surely with a mighty hand, and with a stretched out arm, and with fury poured out, will I rule over you: And I will bring you out from the people, and there will I plead with you face to face. And I will cause you to pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant: And I will purge out from among you the rebels, and them that transgress against Me: I will bring them forth out of the country where they sojourn. As for you, rebels, go you, serve you every one his idols, and hereafter also, if you will not hearken unto Me: but pollute you My holy name no more with your gifts, and with your idols.
All that will serve Me: there will I accept them, and there will I require your offerings, and the first fruits of your oblations, with all your holy things. I will accept you with your sweet savor, when I bring you out from the people, and gather you out of the countries wherein you have been scattered; and I will be sanctified in you before the heathen. I will not be inquired of by you unless you are mine, and following My statues.
Moreover the word of the L-rd came unto Me, saying, Hear the word of the L-rd; Thus said the L-rd G-d; Behold, I will kindle a fire in thee, and it shall devour every green tree in thee, and every dry tree: the flaming flame shall not be quenched, and all faces from the four corners shall be burned therein. And all flesh shall see that I the L-rd have kindled it: it shall not be quenched.
As I live, said the L-rd G-d, I will not be inquired of by you.
Thus said the L-rd G-d; In the day when I chose Israel, and lifted up mine hand unto the seed of the house of Jacob, that I had espied for them, flowing with milk and honey, which is the glory of all the lands:
I fashioned for My name's sake, that it should not be polluted before the heathen, And I gave them My statutes, and showed them My judgments, which if a man do, he shall even live in them. Moreover also I gave them My Sabbaths, to be a sign between them, and Me that they might know that I am the L-rd that sanctify them.
I have given you My chosen, to instruct you, have you followed their ways or adapted your own? Did I not set it all down in the Scriptures what I wanted done? Were you not adopted and grafted in to follow suit?
Now My Sabbaths are greatly polluted: then I said, I would pour out My fury upon all that have not keep it sacred, to consume them, nevertheless mine eye spared you from destroying you, neither did I make an end of you.
I am the L-rd your G-d; walk in My statutes, and keep My judgments, and do them; and hallow My Sabbaths; and you shall be a sign between Me and you, that you may know that I am the L-rd your G-d. Notwithstanding your children rebelled against Me: they walked not in My statutes, neither kept My judgments to do them, which if a man do, he shall even live in them; they polluted My Sabbaths: then I said, I would pour out My fury upon them, to accomplish My anger against them.
And I polluted them in their own gifts, in that they caused to pass through the fire all that opens the womb, that I might make them desolate, to the end that they might know that I am the L-rd. For when you offer your gifts, when you make your sons to pass through the fire, you pollute yourselves with all your idols, even unto this day: and shall I be inquired of by you. No! As I live, said the L-rd G-d, I will not be inquired of by you.
And that which comes into your mind shall not be at all, that you say, As I live, said the L-rd G-d, surely with a mighty hand, and with a stretched out arm, and with fury poured out, will I rule over you: And I will bring you out from the people, and there will I plead with you face to face. And I will cause you to pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant: And I will purge out from among you the rebels, and them that transgress against Me: I will bring them forth out of the country where they sojourn. As for you, rebels, go you, serve you every one his idols, and hereafter also, if you will not hearken unto Me: but pollute you My holy name no more with your gifts, and with your idols.
All that will serve Me: there will I accept them, and there will I require your offerings, and the first fruits of your oblations, with all your holy things. I will accept you with your sweet savor, when I bring you out from the people, and gather you out of the countries wherein you have been scattered; and I will be sanctified in you before the heathen. I will not be inquired of by you unless you are mine, and following My statues.
Moreover the word of the L-rd came unto Me, saying, Hear the word of the L-rd; Thus said the L-rd G-d; Behold, I will kindle a fire in thee, and it shall devour every green tree in thee, and every dry tree: the flaming flame shall not be quenched, and all faces from the four corners shall be burned therein. And all flesh shall see that I the L-rd have kindled it: it shall not be quenched.
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