Currently, I am reading a book called Chofetz Chaim. I have only read the first few pages and, yet, I am overwhelmed and blessed by the profundity of the laws of proper speech according to some Rabbis in order to please HaShem and live at peace with others.
As a believer in Yeshua, for the last year or so, I have been working on proper G-DLY speech and what that sounds like. Most of us realize that gossip, criticism, and negative speech is harmful to both ourselves and to the hearers of our words as well as violates Torah. However, there is a much deeper issue according to the Torah commentaries and the authors of this particular book.
Many know the story of Miriam who was struck with leprosy due to evil speech about her brother Moses. Traditionally in Christian circles, her condition has been named leprosy but is really a different condition based on Judaic thought. This in-depth analysis of biblical leprosy is not the focus of this blog. I just want to highlight the overall theme.
Musing: One of the most amazing things in this book is the idea of the creation of the tongue…partially hidden and partially revealed. The tongue though not seen is heard…just like the heart is not seen, but what comes out of the heart is displayed and/or heard. Further, out of the heart comes rivers of life and/or death depending on the individual speaking.
LaShon Hara or evil speech has planted seeds of destruction in marriages, relationships, and every human interaction we can think of. The twisted tongue if not aligned with G-D’s good pleasure will kill, lie, and destroy. And, why? Because as human beings we are inclined to judge and criticize others though we are much more deserving of criticism and judgement. We are all guilty of evil speech (even complaining) and unless we are actively aware of this and allow the Spirit of G-D to transform us, we speak evil constantly of others … even unaware.
If we could envision that each person has a drop of the image of G-D planted within them, then evil, derogatory, damaging speech would be eliminated at least some of the time. We would use our words to build up others instead of tear each other down in order to falsely build ourselves up. What a better world we might live in if people did not complain, criticize, humiliate, demonize, belittle, shame, curse, etc., etc. each other! Can you imagine?
As believers in HaShem, it is our responsibility to live according to His Torah (teachings) and be the light and salt of this world as commanded by our Savior Yeshua. Our speech, whether good or bad, reflects our heart’s condition. All manner of wickedness is bound in our hearts and profusely expounds daily in our lives unless we allow ourselves to be controlled by G-D’s Holy Spirit in order to demonstrate the abundant life He has bestowed upon us.
Is this easy? You know the answer. But all things are possible for those of us who love the L-RD and seek to be His eyes, arms and feet in this earthly realm. And, when we fail, as we will, we can run to Him for forgiveness and continue to allow Him to grow and transform us. We can grow away from the negativity that has been ingrained in us and become beacons of light in order to honor our King Yeshua.
How about it? Join the movement of love according to G-D’s directive. Each moment consider your speech. Is it beneficial and glorying HaShem? Are you building up the community in which you live and serve? Or is your speech part of the problem which proliferates in our contemporary culture of divisiveness? You choose…a twisted tongue of evil or an edifying tongue of blessings?
Musings,
Dr. Dee
PRAYER:
Dear ABBA,
Help us to speak words of life as you create clean and pure hearts within us that pant after you. Help others to hear your love as we speak wherever we find ourselves, and help us to model our speech after our Master Yeshua. Please transform us and be pleased with our serve. To YOU be all the glory! Amen
Let’s reflect; reflect on faces, and behold His beauty!
Psalm 27:4 One thing I have desired of the L-RD, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the L-RD All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the L-RD, And to inquire in His temple.
The Hebrew word for “face” is “panim”, (the Hebrew letters, peh-nun-yud-mem), literally “faces”, a plural word. Normally, when we think about G-D, we focus only upon one of His “faces” at a time. G-D is “love” – or He is “holy”– or He is “just”— or He’s a G-D of “wrath”. Yet, of course, ALL these “faces” are His at once; and so the word “panim” accurately reflects the truth of G-D’s multifaceted being. As we get to know Him better we begin to appreciate the complexity of His nature and the fact that our focus on one “face” is a very limited view, since there’s so much more going on in His amazing “Personality”.
Now the same four Hebrew letters which form the word “face”, (peh-nun-yud-mem), also form the Hebrew word for “inside” or “interior”. * This would seem to contradict the first meaning, “face”, since “face” is the external part of a person or thing, not the inside. Yet here, as with many Hebrew words and concepts lies a deep truth, a paradox which expresses two sides of reality. The “face” is intimately connected with the “interior“, and may accurately reveal the true “interior” of someone. There’s even a science (or perhaps you might call it an art) of reading peoples’ true attitudes and character by looking carefully at their facial expressions. So while we don’t “judge a book by it’s cover”, we may begin to know a person better by carefully looking at her face…because it is true that the face often says something real about the inside of a person. Yeshua (Jesus) said, “The eye is the lamp of the body; so then if your eye is clear, your whole body will be full of light.” Inside and out, we’re connected.
And this is something G-D wants us to do with Him; to meditate, or gaze upon His “panim”, His “faces”, and so to receive from His interior depths. Someday, we will see Him “face to face”, and begin to know Him in ways which are unimaginable. Yet it is possible, by His Spirit within us, to begin now.
G-D desires us to look deeper into who He is, even as we only look or meditate on one of His “faces”. King David expressed his own unique desire in these words: “One thing I have asked from YHVH, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of YHVH all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the YHVH and to meditate in His temple.” G-D’s faces and His “interior” are one continuous eternal wonder. Let us spend time simply beholding Him!
* In Israel, the Ministry of the “Interior” is the first “face” you meet when interacting with the State on visa issues which determine your internal status in the Land. In Hebrew it’s called the “Misrad HaPanim” (Office of the INTERIOR), literally, “Office of the Faces”!
Shabbat Shalom and have a great weekend!
Your family in the L-RD with much agape love,
George, Baht Rivka, Obadiah and Elianna (Missouri) (Baltimore, Maryland)
Copyright 1999-2024 Worthy Devotions. This devotional was originally published on Worthy Devotions and was reproduced with permission.
We have been reflecting on our walk with HaShem during these 10 days of awe and on Monday, 9/25 is Yom Kippur – The Day of atonement. One of our congregational leaders has been sending daily reflections taken from Aish as encouragement for us to look inward. Our inward reflection is a way to examine what we need to work on in the coming New Year. As believers in Yeshua, we know we are dependent on Him to shed light on the dark areas within our hearts and to assist us in growing to be more like Him in order to please Abba. Below is one of the many reflections we received. I hope you will be blessed by the encouragement.
Create in Me A Clean Heart Oh Adonai and Renew a Right Spirit Within Me
Psalm 51
Read Psalm 27 Daily
Al Chet Prayer
The Goal of Al Chet Is to Get to The Root of the Problem. To become more like Yeshua and to become conformed to His Image and Torah is a process, it does not happen overnight. The key is never to give up, because He does not give up on us. We are all under construction and a work in process and this is the time to do spiritual housecleaning.
#27. For the sin we have sinned before You through haughtiness/arrogance.
Definition of haughtiness: Webster’s 1828 Dictionary: HAUGHTINESS, n. haughtiness. The quality of being haughty; pride mingled with some degree of contempt for others; arrogance.
Isa. 2:11: The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day.
When you look up scriptures referring to haughtiness, it always refers to those who are rebellious against G-D and His Ways and contempt for His people.
Jer. 48:29: We have heard the pride of Moab (he is exceedingly proud), his loftiness, and his arrogance, and his pride, and the haughtiness of his heart.
Haughtiness is a form of pride as well.
Prov. 8:13: The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogance, and the evil way, and the forward mouth, do I hate.
Prov. 11:2: When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.
Prov. 13:10: Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.
Prov. 14:3: In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.
Prov. 16:18: Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.
So what is the “cure” for haughtiness, arrogance and pride?
Humility: Definition of Humility – YESHUA
Phil. 2:8: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
James 4:10: Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
1 Pet. 5:5, 6: Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for G-D resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of G-D, that he may exalt you in due time;
Matt. 18:4: Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
To walk in humility is to die to SELF or the ME, ME, ME, I, I, I syndrome.
Self-Conceit
Self-Righteousness
Self-Exaltation
Self-Consciousness
Self-Pity
Self-Destruction
Self-Centeredness
Matt. 23:11: But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.
Matt. 23:12: And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
28. For the mistakes we committed before You by being arrogant.
The trait the Torah uses to describe Moses is “the humblest man.” Humility is a key to spiritual growth, because it allows us to make room in our life for other people – and for G-D.
Ask yourself: Have I made others feel lowly in order to raise myself higher? Do I dress and speak in a way that draws extra attention to self? When walking through a door, do I usually go first, or let others go first?
Recently, I read an article titled Why are all the good husbands already taken? The article was pretty interesting and thought worthy for all the single ladies out there who might be asking themselves the same question.
As the article stated there is a dating paradox: Why are all the good guys taken? Why are my friend’s husbands such amazing people and the guys a lot of us meet/date all seem to be missing something? What is that something?
According to the article, all the good guys are not taken. Being in love, loving someone and being loved by someone brings the best out in us. Have you ever noticed that especially in the beginning of a relationship? The individuals have a certain glow and even look better. I have noticed this glow or radiance in men who are loved and giving love. Their countenance is beautifully transformed. So, according to the article a guy in a loving relationship does have something that available guys do not have… and that is someone to love.
G-D created us to be in loving and harmonious relationships with each other, but especially our spouses. G-D stated in Genesis, it is not good for man to be alone. (Gen. 2:18) Therefore until our hearts are massaged by true love, first by G-D and then a loving mate, it can appear as if all the good husbands or men are taken. The human soul is meant to open up and connect with someone else. And, yet the human soul has to desire to live and love another.
Loving someone brings out the best in us. We feel alive, more vivid and our personalities blossom. It feels amazing to be loved and in a relationship that is mutually satisfying. In a loving relationship, especially a g-dly one, we feel free, more confident, content, beautiful and complete. On most days, the world seems wonderful and our marriage is our home. Remember, a harmonious, g-dly, loving relationship is the focus of this blog.
Obviously, we can share love with family and friends, even our enemies; but until we find that special someone, we are incomplete. When a biological male and a biological woman come together in the wisdom of the Creator, it is then they can begin the process of reflecting the image of G-D to each other and those around them. It is imperative to remember that we are created in the image of G-D. Loving each other is a form of loving Him.
Remember, you can’t shop for a vehicle in someone else’s garage or shop for a dining set in someone else’s dining room. Nor can you expect someone to allow you to use their debit card to pay your monthly bills and expenses. (Exodus 20:17) And, you can’t compare the guys you date to your friend’s husbands, i.e., g-dly husbands.
Instead, be your best self and recognize some single men are incomplete without someone to love, just like you might feel incomplete without someone to love. In the meantime, set your standards high and stick to them; and live life to the fullest as you wait and desire a mate. Give your loneliness to the L-RD and prayerfully, your wait won’t be too long.
We normally think of blood being thicker than water, especially when it comes to family. We hear the adage that family is the most important investment; they are the main ones we can depend on though we know this is not always the case. In Proverbs 18:24 it teaches that Some “friends” pretend to be friends, but a true friend sticks closer than a brother. (CJB) Another translation: Friends can destroy one another, but a loving friend can stick closer than family. (GW)
This Scripture emphasizes the devastation of a fake friend and the profundity of being the type of friend that exemplifies stick-to-it-ness. This brief blog attempts to look at the latter portion of Proverbs 18:24 in relation to those we call “friends”. We all have folks in our lives we consider friends. What is your definition of a friend? Let’s consider…
Some of us have virtual friends…FaceBook, Instagram, SnapChat, Twitter or whatever other social media platforms you might find entertaining and/or fulfilling. Some of our friends are work-buddies, gym-buddies, synagogue-buddies, church-buddies, bar-buddies, shopping-buddies, neighbor-buddies, and the list goes on. Some people have folks around them as the Scripture suggests that just want to be with others for the sake of stroking their egotistical cravings and/or maybe to receive some tangible rewards. However, what is a true friend? I described types of friends, but what are the characteristics of a true friend? This Scripture brings up jarring points. One, some friends just want to destroy others or are not true friends…posers; and two, there is a loving friend who is more loyal than family.
He has called us to be fishers of men.
How many people can stand and say, I have a friend who is more loyal than my family, my mom, my dad, my sister, my brother? Who can truly say this about any human being, other than Messiah, Himself? I know folks who claim this to be true. They have people in their lives who are closer and more loyal than their “blood” family members or their spouses for that matter. And, though I find this commentary astonishing and disheartening, I am not surprised. Assuming this statement is true, practically speaking as believers we are called to be friends to others. Therefore, what should our response include?
Obviously, as followers of Messiah, we live the best we can to be loyal family members as well as loyal friends. There is no competition between the two. We can be loving moms, dads, sisters, brothers, etc. and at the same time be loving friends to those we love who are not related to us by blood. Call me crazy, but I am a staunch believer that our hearts are big enough to love a lot of folks at various times in our lives, and then all at once, and into the future. There is room to love all, not necessarily loyal to all for obvious reasons, but the ability to love and care for others, and then to be the friend you want others to be to you…this is a worthy possible feat. This is the biblical principle of the golden rule.
I just finished reading the letter to the Colossians and it is one of the richest letters in the Bible which exhorts us to practice our faith. The depth of this letter from Shaul to the Messianic Community in Colosse is beyond this blog. However, the following verses summarize the practical application of our faith, the kind of friend/person we should be and more.
Colossians 1:9–11 — G-D’S WORD Translation (GW)
9 For this reason we have not stopped praying for you since the day we heard about you. We ask ⸤G-D⸥ to fill you with the knowledge of his will through every kind of spiritual wisdom and insight. 10 We ask this so that you will live the kind of lives that prove you belong to the L-RD. Then you will want to please him in every way as you grow in producing every kind of good work by this knowledge about G-D. 11 We ask him to strengthen you by his glorious might with all the power you need to patiently endure everything with joy.
The richness of these verses are slathered with practical application on how we should live as a friend, family member and/or responsible g-dly person. We should be praying, filled with the knowledge of His will, live lives pleasing to the Father in order to prove we belong to Him and strengthened by Him to endure with joy all that this life has for us. Our lives must be bathed in Him so that we can be a true and righteous friend. In addition, as we allow ourselves to be filled with His Will, we fulfill the commandment to love others as we love ourselves practicing forgiveness, honesty, bearing great fruit, exemplifying who we are in Messiah as G-D’s Holy Spirit directs.
So, let me challenge you (me as well), as 2023 is fast approaching to examine yourself, your loyalties to others and your growth in the Messiah. Ask yourself, where are your commitments to your friends on the Richter scale so to speak? What harmony and g-dly-gifts do you bring to the table of being a fantastic friend? Are you an example of a possible worthy feat? Are you the friend you would want someone else to be to you? Can folks see and hear G-D’s heart emanating from you?
Figure it out, do what is required to show your heart to those you claim you love; but more importantly, be the example of who you claim to serve. Do it unto the glory of G-D and be that loyal friend who sticks closer than a brother or sister.
Fall is one of my favorite times of the year. I love the fall colors, crisp cool breeze and the roar of burning wood crackling in the fireplace. I enjoy gatherings with family, friends and the laughter we share. The beauty of this season is a blessing; but, today, I miss my mom.
Thanksgiving was always about spending time with family and friends. As a kid, we had huge traditional turkey meals, laughter and fun! Thanksgiving was a time when we expressed how grateful we were for all the L-RD had done for us; and it was time to relish in those blessings and squash family squabbles. Yet, as time went on, holidays with family and friends changed. Life experiences either interfered or destroyed some of the precious times as the years progressed.
As I am writing this blog, my heart is heavy because I am not only missing my mom, but other members of my family who have passed from this life. And, honestly, I am just lonely for them. I spent a good part of this morning just reminiscing about some of our times together both wonderful and not so wonderful. Last year this time, I was with my mom while she was in hospice and though it wasn’t a traditional Thanksgiving, she was still on this side of heaven and we chatted and laughed together. Sometimes, I just wish I could talk to her.
Yet, even in my sadness today, I am extremely grateful for all ABBA has done for me and my family through Yeshua. He has done more for me than I deserve, and I am humbled by His great love. And, though I do not have any family in the state I am currently living in, I have friends who care about me and that helps tremendously when I am feeling down like today. But more importantly, I do not weep as someone without hope. And, I am grateful for the comfort of the L-RD.
Anyway, the point of this blog, love folks while you can. Hold on to the people who matter. Make time for each other and tell folks how much you love and care for them while they are in your midst. Don’t assume folks know how much you love and appreciate them. You know what they say about assuming.
Let me encourage you…get over yourself and let stupidity and bitterness go. Get over differences because soon and very soon they… and then you will be gone. Enjoy your family and friends like never before as if this is your last day together.
Human beings are animals, not like dogs, cats, horses, cows, etc., instead, we are uniquely and wonderfully made in the image of the living G-D. All of G-D’s creation was made with His wisdom, His creativity and His unique incomparable touches which are visible for all to see and embrace. However, humans have not only been made through His wisdom, but have been created to house and acquire a portion (a very small portion) of His wisdom, knowledge and understanding in addition to all of the other cognitive properties we possess. Animals are not on the same level as human beings and though they should be treated responsibly, to hoist an animal over another human and/or a relationship is a violation of G-D’s design.
We have been so beautifully created by the Master Creator. Many of us fail to embrace our beauty within the framework G-D has designed to intensify our relationship with Him. He has created us to be vessels of His love, wisdom and understanding. He has created us to be His “tangible” presence in the lives of others. He has created us to worship and adore Him. If we love G-D, we love others and treat both accordingly as the Word directs in Deuteronomy 6:1-9.
We have been taught that our emotions, wisdom, cognitive abilities and understanding are seated in our brains. But, is this really the case? We have also been taught that the brain controls the mind? Hum, does it? Who or what is truly working within us? Is it self only or a combination of good, evil inclinations, the illumination of G-D’s spirit or the disastrous influences of the evil one and the world? Or are we a cosmological array of atoms evolved from some anonymous collaborative litter floundering through this thing we call living? Are we a hunk of dirt with a spirit or are we a spirit housed in clay traveling through life?
I personally believe we have been created and we are wonderfully designed by an uncaused cause who loves us, desires to fellowship and make Himself known to us. I personally believe that though human effort is involved, wisdom and understanding are gifts from G-D and housed in our hearts. I do believe that it is the mind that controls the brain. (A blog for another day.) I believe we have been specially designed to demonstrate who we love and to love others accordingly. And, yes we have a propensity for evil and oftentimes we struggle between doing what is righteous instead of succumbing to that which is evil.
I did a word study on the word heartand I was surprised to learn that of those who have had heart transplants, a significant percentage report not feeling like themselves with different preferences; and some have even said they have felt like another person was living inside of them. These reports have befuddled medical doctors. Huh? Like near death experiences are these accounts true? Can we believe these accounts since they are the words of the recipients. If the heart is the seat of wisdom, understanding or the lack thereof, as well as emotions, is it conceivable that the organ for pumping blood can also be a spiritual/invisibleworking entity person specific? If we are truly spiritual beings having a human experience, then why wouldn’t this be true? But, I digress…
Estes Park, CO
According to the Bible, wisdom is a gift. (Job 38:36, James 1:5) According to the Bible, understanding is a gift. (Daniel 2:21) and G-D has put wisdom in the innermost being of humans and given understanding to the mind of human beings. (Job 38:36) Further, though wisdom and understanding may be bestowed on us to some degree in our inner beings, we should pray for wisdom and understanding in order to be G-DLY led in all manners of life. (Psalm 119:34)
One of the greatest biblical figures was asked by G-D what he wanted, which was almost like a “wish” from G-D. This particular biblical figure asked for wisdom. King Solomon who asked for wisdom so that he might serve the people of G-D, in order for him to discern good and evil. (1 King 3:9) WOW, what a humble leader to look to G-D in order to serve/govern G-D’s people. Did you get that? King Solomon realized his leadership was over G-D’s people [not subjects of his kingdom] and thus he desired to serve G-D by serving G-D’s people justly. Amazingly awesome!
The wisdom of this world is lunacy and contradictory to the purposes of G-D’s will for those who are called by His name. The depth of G-D’s love alludes us and we oftentimes walk circumvent to the dictates of G-D’s instructions. Instead, we clutch onto our narcissistic impulses and the world’s values in self-idolatry, again counterproductive to G-D’s desire for His beloved. We serve a passionately loving G-D whose patience seems endless and gracious. We are bestowed with an abundance of love, grace and mercy each day from our Father and L-RD. Once we get a glimpse of His love, we ought to do better according to His will in all areas of our lives by obeying His commandments.
Wisdom and understanding are gifts from G-D to humans in order for us to use our free will to serve and love Him, and consequently serve and love others. But in all of our knowledge, we need His wisdom and His understanding in order to serve Him in ways that are pleasing to Him. Our idea of good may not line up with HIS idea of good. And, since He is G-D, we might consider learning and applying behaviors which exemplify His will.
Knowledge without wisdom/understanding can be obtained as a cognitive process. We are created to understand basic and/or complex information; and we have a choice for our proceeding actions. Animals can not think analytically, express, evaluate, synthesize and respond accordingly using free will as G-D has proposed for humans. But wisdom, complete understanding and the practical application of “good” over evil is one of the ways we are set apart from the beast of the air and land. The test for the application of G-DLY wisdom, understanding and knowledge is obedience to our Creator, ABBA through our helper, the Rauch HaKodesh (Breath of G-D) according to His Torah.
My point, we do not in my opinion truly get how wonderfully and uniquely we have been created in G-D’s image. We do not fully comprehend how much He loves us and desires to be the priority in our lives, thus why Yeshua came. Yet, conversely, we do not understand the harshness of His wrath at our denial of Him and all He has to offer. Our Father is both loving and just. My tiny glimmers of His love are my hope in this life and the life to come. He is Echad, One, the TRUE living G-D who has provided access to Himself through the love, mercy and authority of Yeshua (Jesus).
Belief in the creation of human beings, our uniqueness and being wonderfully made, as well as living in an aesthetically pleasing environment nullifies the notion that we exploded from a pile of matter. Look around at the beauty and complexity of nature and then consider the beauty and complexity of others and then yourself…we have been undeniably uniquely and wonderfully made. Imagine a world if we truly believed each one of us is uniquely and wonderfully made.
May your Name be kept holy among your people and your instructions fulfilled without grumbling and whining. May your people who are called by your name cherish YOU, respect YOU, obey YOU and honor YOU with all their hearts, minds and souls. May your people be the salt and light in the earth as you have demanded; and may you be pleased with the service of your people…for YOU are holy and worthy of all praise, honor and prestige. You are love and there is no one else who touches our hearts, provides and sustains like YOU. You are the G-D of mercy – not giving us what we deserve; and the G-D of grace offering us the gift of forgiveness in Yeshua.
Today, I lift up families, friends and our nation, the USA…please according to your tender mercies…bless, protect, and squash the evil which is seeking to kill, destroy and steal our very existence, in the name of Yeshua I humbly ask. You have also commanded that we pray for our enemies, so ABBA may our enemies be moved to graciousness and resolution with others as they see your light and hear your beckoning.
Today, I also lift up Israel because you said in your word to pray for the peace of Israel. I pray for your Shalom to surround them and keep them safe during their various trials and tribulations as they war against their neighbors. I pray that lasting peace will be realized for better living conditions for all.
As you know, there are wars all over the world and rumors of wars; famine, disease, and all sorts of devastating situations. And, though I fail to comprehend all the matters which are heart wrenching, I trust in YOU because you are still in charge and handling these situations as you see fit. However, I pray that you would aggressively move to bring healing, peace, forgiveness and more according to your will in the name of Yeshua. May your Kingdom come!
You are the G-D who sees and knows all things. Please move across the land of Israel, USA and the world in ways which defines who you are and impacts people for your glory. Thank you for listening to my prayer. I love you L-RD!
We all make choices each moment of each day. Our choices range from minor to major and consequently, the consequences of those choices are realized whether positive or negative. However, many times when we are in the midst of decision considerations, we may not look far enough into the “future” in an attempt to make a wise decision.
This past Shabbat, I was listening to one of my favorite Rabbi’s, and he mentioned how many of us have regrets regarding our relationships with our children and wish we would have done things differently even as an honorable parent. And, though this may be the case, we have to repent from our errors and move on. Wallowing in self-pity and shame is contrary to G-D’s design of repentance and forgiveness. We have to forgive ourselves and as well as others. I was speaking to a friend on the same subject, and he mentioned that he has thoughts about things he could have done differently, and he was/is a very involved parent with both of his children.
Choices – life or death
Anyway, what about other choices? Marital choices, living accommodations, career choices, friendships, dining pleasures, worship communities and more. All of our choices whether demanding or miniscule equals consequences, positive or negative. This is both a natural and a biblical dictate.
So how do we make wise decisions? The older we get supposedly the wiser we get, goes the saying. However, I have found as a believer in Yeshua, the older I get the more I need His wisdom and guidance; and the less I can or need to lean on my own understanding. I am clear on the choices I have made, and my current consequences remind me of the lack of wisdom and knowledge I thought I possessed, and as well as the converse. There are many positive and wonderful consequences in my life, as well as not so much.
What do I mean? Examples:
Marriage and family have always been very important to me. Initially, in my naïveté, I thought of marriage in fairy-tale manner. But, as the years have passed and failed relationships have cruelly demonstrated, marriages that are not based in covenant with G-D at the helm, struggle at best or self-destruct. Why? The choices couples make will either strengthen or destroy their marriage, their children, family and/or friends. Strengthened marriages full of love, joy, companionship, understanding, friendship are many times beacons of hope and pleasure for the onlookers, as well as those privileged to thrive in those familial relationships. The converse, unfortunately, is true.
Marriages which wreak of strife, bitterness, dishonesty, selfishness, sarcasm, and resentment are on a fast track to futility and ultimately death (divorce). Who suffers? The marital partners, children, friends, family and others. And, once an individual is standing in the midst of middle or senior years, the consequences of life choices may prove contrary to their hoped desires.
Unfortunately, like my momma used to say, many folks today have a lack of staying-power. They quit when the going gets tough in their marriages, careers, diets or whatever it might be, because the heat of the struggle weakens or demolishes their resolve. We lack the desire or spiritual-muscle to depend on G-D to help us do our part and have the faith that He will do His part. And, those who do not have a relationship with ABBA usually depend on their own devices, which most times proves inadequate.
So again, all of our decisions matter!
Where is our hope and resolve with our past, present and future decisions? Our hope is in the L-RD! Our hope is in the L-RD! We hear this all the time in Christendom. However, what does that mean? What does it look like?
Each person has to answer that question for themselves as they examine their life and take stock of their beliefs, their relationship with the Master, Yeshua, and the practical application of their faith as the Bible instructs. Each person must reconcile their status as a sinner with ABBA according to His plan of salvation in His Word.
I believe this is a process and part of working out our salvation in Yeshua under the direction of His Holy Spirit beyond the verbal acknowledgement of our belief in Him. The basic tenets of our faith must be our foundation, our hope in His coming Kingdom, the presence of His Kingdom on earth and the light of His Kingdom living within us. Further, we must accept and put our faith in His redemptive efforts on the cross and His resurrection. Your celebration of your belief in Yeshua must be based on the Word of G-D and not man’s traditions; as well as we ought to fellowship with our community of siblings in the faith.
We all, myself included, have made decisions which have put us exactly in the place we find ourselves in this current moment. To deny that we did not play a role in our own current circumstances regardless of the positivity or negativity is to deny a basic fundamental truth. We are our consequences as a rule. Remember the rule, not the exception. To think we have innocently moved along in this life is a fallacy worth repentance.
Let’s consider a few examples based on our choices and potential consequences. Fill in the blank per your understanding.
Negative Choices:
Treating others with contempt … [fill in the blank].
Refusing to provide for self/family … [fill in the blank].
Excessive intake of alcohol … [fill in the blank].
Experimental or drug addiction … [fill in the blank].
Consistent poor food choices … [fill in the blank].
Lying, stealing … [fill in the blank].
Sex prior to marriage and/or without protection … [fill in the blank].
Marriage outside of G-D’s design … [fill in the blank].
Divorce … [fill in the blank].
Lack of education … [fill in the blank].
A life devoid of a relationship with Yeshua as Savior … [fill in the blank].
Positive Choices:
Prayer each day and throughout … [fill in the blank].
Loving G-D according to the Shema (Deut. 6:4-9) … [fill in the blank].
Reading G-D’s Word each day … [fill in the blank].
Emulating the Master Yeshua … [fill in the blank].
Living faith via practical application … [fill in the blank].
Obeying G-D’s teachings … [fill in the blank].
Repenting of offenses to G-D and others …. [fill in the blank].
Exercising self-control … [fill in the blank].
Education (life learner) … [fill in the blank].
Treating others with love, kindness and respect … [fill in the blank].
Loving and praying for adversaries … [fill in the blank].
Strong work ethnic … [fill in the blank].
Fighting the good fight of faith … [fill in the blank].
Staying power and responsibility … [fill in the blank].
Obviously, either list above is exhaustive. However, regardless of what or who you believe in, we are all passing through this life. Every single one of us is going to leave planet earth by way of the death locomotive. Your money, status, moma, papa, kids, husband, wife, etc., cannot hold us when the death angel arrives. You, me, all of us will have to answer to the stranger of death. What case will your life choices present to the ultimate Judge?
Surely the ONE who has created all things can guide us as we wrestle with decisions.
Therefore, while we have today, let us embrace the love of our Heavenly Father through our Savior Yeshua, and repent of our pasts believing and living as new creations in Him. Let us ask for wisdom, guidance and insights on the decisions we make in every area of our lives. Let us seek the counsel of ABBA before making rash decisions, because we are incapable of fully understanding the consequences of our choices. We have just a little while on earth and infinite years in eternity. Let us be encouraged to trust and believe in our Blessed Hope who holds our today and our tomorrow.
Be the consequence of your commitment to ABBA, so others will see the best of who you are in Him and be drawn to Him. One of our goals as believers is to live our faith as His hands, His feet and His voice. Seek G-D and He will help you work out your salvation in reconciliation with Him in all areas of your life. Finally, remember to pray for one another including guidance in decision making. James 5:16
We are the commodities of our choices.
Musings,
Dr. Dee
Note: If you find value in my musings, please feel free to share. Thank you for stopping by today and engaging in my contemplations! May G-D richly bless and keep you!
ABBA, YOUR goodness is running after your people, and your love exceeds the understanding of humankind. And, though, we are dreadfully sinful and full of narcissistic desires, you keep showing your love, grace and faithfulness each day to every single person on planet earth through your creation.
What do you mean Dr. Dee? How does G-D faithfully demonstrate His love to all?
Let me list a few ways:
Are you reading this post? Consider all that allows you to read.
Is your body still responding to stimuli?
Are you on this side of heaven?
Did the weather show up where you are currently living?
Did you have water to drink?
Did the flowers and trees blossom, grow, and/or provide food/shelter?
Did the sea continue to vomit food and nourish humans and animals?
Did the lakes flow and provide water and living habitats for various animals?
Did the air provide CO2?
Did the sun rise and set on this day or yesterday?
Did the moon remain in the heavens or did it fall to earth?
Did the clouds form and/or dissipate on this day or yesterday?
It rains on the just and the unjust indiscriminately…is this not the case?
And the list goes on and on! Can you think of a few examples?
The glory of G-D is evident in nature and benefits everyone, including animals irrespective of one’s belief about G-D and/or their current economic status. As we examine nature, we get a glimpse of the artistic, majestic and awesomeness of the invisible G-D revealing Himself in magnificent and often indescribable visible ways. We sometimes look at nature and take the beauty around us for granted or consider it an atomic explosion from centuries past. However, each day G-D’s handiwork is on display for all to admire and appreciate. And, may I add to love, honor and worship Him! Who? The Creator of the universe and the sustainer of life.
Let me ask you this: What other god sustains as the Creator, HaShem? What other god created the planets and holds them in perfect harmony? What other god causes the winds to blow, the seas to roar, and the earth to produce both grass and trees; thistles and flowers; wheat and corn? What other god has crafted the human body with such precision and capability? What other god has created all the variety we see in the animal kingdom? What other god desires a personal relationship with his subjects? What other god touches hearts in profound ways, protects, provides and nurtures? What other god provides salvation through Yeshua? There is none like Him. [Jeremiah 10:6-16] There is only One True and Living G-D…HaShem!
The sun has not failed to rise or set in all the years I have lived on this planet. The weather continues to impact this planet, which He controls. The crops grow and nourish both humans and animals as does water. No one can say, I am NOT blessed of Adonai! The very air we breathe is manufactured by G-D for He made the earth by His power and established the world by His wisdom. When He thunders, the waters in the heavens are in turmoil; and He causes the clouds to rise from one end of the earth to another. [Jeremiah 10:12-13] G-D created and sustains all things for His purpose and glory. Don’t get it twisted! It is all about ABBA, the Creator regardless of your stance.
Therefore, the next time, you find yourself roaming around outside; take a moment to scrutinize the great outdoors and consider the plants, trees, mountains, birds and stars. Behold the beauty of the planet G-D has created for us. Thank Him.
Next time, you find yourself roaming around outside; with a grateful heart, thank G-D for the air you breathe, the plants which provide food and beauty; the water, which quenches your thirst and cleanses your body and many other things. Be grateful.
Next time, you find yourself roaming around outside; thank G-D for His consideration of you and be deeply appreciative for all that you have…not what you want, but WHAT you already have. You might find you are very rich beyond your realization.
Remember, we serve a great and mighty G-D who desires our worship, obedience and fellowship. Get outside and behold the artistic landscape of our artistically unlimited G-D. Glorify and reach up to the One true and living G-D whose artistic exquisiteness is available each day for our admiration and adoration.
