Psalm 91 - Study 29 - Overcoming fear

Psalm 91 - Study 29 - Overcoming Fear 

We read in Isaiah 41:10, “Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Surely I will help you. I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (TLV)

There are two phrases in the above mentioned verse that I wish to highlight in this sermon. The first is ‘fear not’ and the other is ‘I will strengthen you.’ There seems to be some connection between fear and weakness and the Lord guarantees such that He would not only strengthen them, but also help and uphold them.

During this season of pandemic, we have studied in depth from Psalm 91 that when the Lord is our dwelling place, no disease will come near us. When challenged with stressful situations, there are a myriad emotions that take over, thereby causing several health issues. It is however, the will of the Lord to take over and bring healing to our bodies and minds during these trying times.

Job’s fears overtake him

We read in Job 3:25-26, “What I fear most overtakes me. What I dread happens to me. I have no peace! I have no quiet! I have no rest! And trouble keeps coming!" (GW)

In the above mentioned verse Job explained how the very things he feared and dreaded overtook him, so that he lost his peace, quiet, rest and ended up with turmoil.

There is an interesting point to note from Job’s experience. Whenever, we keep on pondering on our circumstances and imagine the worst, oftentimes they become a reality. So many are stressed and hard-pressed on every side, simply because they have allowed themselves to be dominated by fear. I hope by the end of this message that God will grant you grace to overcome every one of these fears that may have gripped you.

Necessary and unnecessary fears

Fears can be categorized as those that are necessary and those that are not. For instance, when we are crossing a main road, we exercise caution before we do so and the reason is that we do not want to be run over by a speeding vehicle. This is an essential fear that helps us to be safe and being fearless or careless in such a situation, might be harmful to us. This is the same fear that alerts us to be careful when dealing with fire, warns us to not put our fingers into an electric socket or jump off a tall building. These fears are good as they keep us safe and prevent us from doing things that could be detrimental to us.

However, there are many other fears that grip our hearts that are totally baseless. Generally, these fears begin as worries, which constantly play on our mind. Many parents for instance constantly worry about their children’s future, their jobs, marriage and so many other things.

No Need for worry

These are the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:34, "So don't ever worry about tomorrow. After all, tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (GW)

Jesus is categorical that we are not to worry about tomorrow. He further emphasized that each day had enough trouble of its own and therefore we should let tomorrow worry about itself. Nevertheless, we as human beings are filled with so many worries. They say some people worry that they have nothing to worry about. Jesus knew that worry when left unchecked would certainly lead to fear and anxiety. When fear takes over, it creates negative thoughts of probable dangers which play on our emotions, which ultimately affects our physical and mental health.

Let me illustrate this with an example. A mother sat sullen, her hands on her chin as she watched her ten year old son at play. Her husband who watched her, inquired as to what was the reason for her being so somber and she replied, ‘Our son is so tall at age ten, so I am wondering how much taller would he be when he is a grown up. If he grows to be so tall, will we be able to find him a girl tall enough to be his wife?’ It may sound hilarious, but most of our fears are truly such baseless fears. These worries and fears that we often entertain, will not change a single situation.

There are two categories of people who worry. Those who are stuck in the past and worry about all the things that they did wrong and the wrong choices they made. There are others who are so worried about the future and concerned about the plausible issues that they could encounter. Both these groups of people will most certainly lose out on the present and on the joys that could be theirs today.

The life that Jesus lived while here on earth was extremely simple and uncomplicated. Early in the morning He spent time with God the Father and then He went about ministering from town to town. Wherever He went, people were healed, lives were transformed and He did wonders and miracles. He Himself had no place to stay or call His own. His disciples were unschooled and ordinary men. Not once do we see Jesus worried or anxious about anything for He knew that the Father was in control of everything. So it is only apt that Jesus’ words to not worry about tomorrow can actually be followed by those of us who are His children. If we could learn to pray about each day, do that which is needful, seek God’s guidance to His will for the day, there will no room for worry in our lives.

Someone said it this way, ‘Every opportunity to worry should be turned into an opportunity to trust in God.’ So for instance, if paying your children’s fees is the issue, instead of worrying, do all you can on your part and depend on God to meet the rest of it.

We need humility to trust God

The one basic quality we need to have this dependence on God is humility. Humility is when one comes to the place of realization that we do not know everything, but that God is all knowing and therefore, we can surrender everything into His hands. A humble person alone will do what is possible for him to do and be ready to submit everything into God’s control.

We read in 1 Peter 5: 6-7, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (ESV)

This is the mandate the word of God has set for us that we should humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God or be in submission to Him. So many are in confusion because they are trying hard to accomplish things on their own and are not willing to seek God’s wisdom or guidance. To submit to God means to implicitly obey His word and to let go of all the things that He does not approve of. God cares for us and those who are willing to acknowledge His Lordship and submit to Him in humility will be free from all their worries and anxieties. Not only does the Lord promise to care for the humble, but He also assures us that they will also be exalted in due time. Most of our worries pertaining to our family, our jobs, our children and future are all valid, but if we are willing to live in humility under submission to the word of God, He will intervene to sort out all those issues that entangle us and cause us to be anxious.

Hannah turned her worry to joy

In 1 Samuel 1 we read about Hannah who was barren and she was totally distraught. She was upset about her situation and realized that no one, not even her husband could help change her predicament. It was in such a state that Hannah decided to take this matter to God, who alone could help her change her plight.

We read in 1 Samuel 1:10, “She was deeply distressed and prayed to the LORD and wept bitterly.” (ESV)

And then in 1 Samuel 1:18 … “Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad.” (ESV)

After Hannah had poured out her heart to the Lord and shared all her grief in His presence at the temple, she rose up and went away with gladness of heart, ate and her face was no longer downcast. God answered the fervent prayers of Hannah and in due time He blessed her with a son. Even before Hannah received her blessing she was willing to give her son back to the Lord for His service and the blessing that she received was many more children from the Lord.

Hannah was so unlike many of us who are so overwhelmed with apprehension about the future that they cannot even enjoy the food that is placed before them today. Anxiety has made them lose their appetite. Like Hannah we must learn to leave at the Lord’s feet all our anxieties and once we have done that, we should go on with complete confidence that the Lord will take over and handle everything. We may go into God’s presence with sorrow and grief, but when we come away from His presence our faces should radiate the joy of the Lord.

The fear of relationships

There are many who have been hurt in relationships by people’s words or actions. As a result of these experiences they shy away from making commitments for close relationships and prefer to live singly.

These are the words of God as we read in Genesis 2:18, “Then the LORD God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone;” (ESV)

God who created the heavens and the earth and everything in them, He found that all of it was good as they were created. However, when God created Adam, He concluded that it was not good for Adam to be alone and therefore created Eve.

Our past experiences and emotions may prompt us to believe that it is better to be alone, but God who created us thinks otherwise. It is good for God’s children to realize that it is not advisable for them to be in isolation, as this is contrary to God’s plan for each one of us.

God heals the broken hearted

We read in Psalm 147:3, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (ESV)

Our God is one who heals those who are broken hearted and is ever ready to heal all our wounds and hurts. For instance, if we had a fracture in our left hand and it was in a cast, we would be extra cautious in the way we handle it because of the pain and discomfort. Also we will take precaution to see that no one touches that hand by mistake and we will often use our right hand to protect the hurt left hand. In reality there are so many who are still holding on to their hurts and not permitting anyone to come close to them fearing pain of being hurt again. The Lord admonishes such to come to Him, for He is the master healer and the one who can bind our wounds to bring about healing and wholeness to our mind and bodies.

The difference between Peter and Judas Iscariot

Before Jesus chose His twelve disciples, He prayed much about it. He chose them to be with Him. For three and a half years the disciples lived with Jesus and among them were Peter and Judas Iscariot. While Peter denied Jesus, Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus. The consequence was that both of their hearts were filled with remorse and there seemed to be a breach in the relationship that they both had with Jesus. Peter was penitent and cried bitter tears for his act of disloyalty, but he allowed Jesus to restore him and heal his wounds. Peter was therefore transformed to be the leader of the early church who lived a life of great fruitfulness for the Lord and the extension of His Kingdom. On the other hand Judas Iscariot decided that it was the end of the road when he betrayed Jesus. He was not humble and willing to get back to Jesus and secluded himself from Jesus and all the other disciples. If you observe the life of Judas Iscariot it began with love for money, which led to murmuring, which later led him to unwanted associations thereby giving room for Satan to take over his life. Judas Iscariot tried to give back the money he collected for his act of betrayal, but the Jewish leaders refused to accept it. He tried desperately to undo his mistakes, but sadly it was far too late. Judas Iscariot chose isolation and instead of turning to Jesus, he sought after those who became responsible for his downfall.

If we were to describe a disciple today we could say it this way. A disciple is one who desires to be with Jesus, longs to do His will and lives a life that is pleasing to Him in every way. A lesson from Judas Iscariot is that when we give the Devil a foothold in our lives, he will use us for his cunning schemes and then conveniently dispose us. There are two important lessons we need to learn from the lives of Peter and Judas Iscariot. Firstly when we are reconciled with God, He will certainly heal us of all our hurts and will restore us back to Himself to be used for His greater purposes. Secondly, we also need to be reconciled with people and when we do so the Lord will help us establish stronger relationships.

Let me conclude with this verse from 1 John 4:18, “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.” (ESV)

Love is the foundation for all relationships, for perfect love will cast out all fear. There are many who are hesitant to take that step of reconciliation for fear that they will be hurt again and hence are choosing a life of seclusion or solitude. The Lord encourages us to be filled with love instead of fear. Fear will bring untold misery and hardships and to be fearful means we are not perfected in love. Let us permit the Lord to deal with all those unnecessary fears that are lurking inside and release us from all of them. Only when we are rid of all these fears will be able to lead the abundant and wholesome life that God has in store for us. God has called us to live a life of joy and victory. May the love of God enfold us and may all the uncalled for fears be completely removed from our hearts and minds.

Pastor Dixon

www.goodnewsfriends.net

Transcribed by Sis. Esther Collins

Psalm 91 - Study 28 - Forgiveness, its for our benefit

Psalm 91 - Study 28 - Forgiveness – it’s for our benefit 

Shimei had security in Jerusalem

We read in 1 Kings 2:36, “Then the king sent and summoned Shimei and said to him, “Build yourself a house in Jerusalem and dwell there, and do not go out from there to any place whatever.” (ESV)

When Solomon was King of Israel, he summoned Shimei and instructed him that he build a house in Jerusalem and live there. Solomon also cautioned Shimei that he should never leave the confines of Jerusalem, no matter what happened. Shimei was guaranteed protection only as long as he continued in Jerusalem, for Solomon warned him of what would transpire if he chose to disobey this command.

In 1 Kings 2:37, we read, “If you ever cross Kidron Valley and leave Jerusalem, you will be killed. And it will be your own fault.” (CEV)

The reason for this restriction on Shimei was that when Solomon’s father Kind David, was king over Israel, Shiemei disrespected David and cursed him. However, David graciously forgave Shimei and did not inflict any sort of punishment on him.

The word of God teaches us to be submissive to those in authority and not to treat them with contempt or disregard. We too have at many times displeased God, but God in His mercy choses to forgive us when we repent and it is His will that we remain in His protective care. Just like Jerusalem was a city of refuge for Shimei, so too the Lord has promised to be our security.

That is the assurance that is detailed out to us in Psalm 91:1, “Live under the protection of God Most High and stay in the shadow of God All-Powerful.” (CEV)

The place of safety for God’s children is in the presence of God, under the shadow of the Almighty and All-Powerful God. As long as we remain under God’s protection, no evil will befall us and no disease will come near our dwelling.

Shimei walked out of the security

Shimei enjoyed this security as long as he stayed within the boundaries of Jerusalem. This is what happened some time later.

We read in 1 Kings 2:39-40, “But it happened at the end of three years that two of Shimei's servants ran away to Achish, son of Maacah, king of Gath. And when it was told Shimei, “Behold, your servants are in Gath,” Shimei arose and saddled a donkey and went to Gath to Achish to seek his servants. Shimei went and brought his servants from Gath.” (CEV)

After three years Shimei forgot that he had taken an oath with King Solomon to not depart from Jerusalem, which was his place of security. When Shimei heard that two of his servants had fled to Gath, he saddled his donkey, went in pursuit of them out of the borders of Jerusalem and brought them back.

We are not sure how Shimei treated his servants that made them decide to escape from him. Shimei who had received forgiveness and mercy at the hands of Kind David failed to extend this same grace to his servants who wronged him. When King Solomon was informed that Shimei had disobeyed his orders and left Jerusalem to go to Gath, Solomon called him, inquired of him and put him to death. One can fairly conclude that this calamity which came upon Shimei was a consequence of his willful disobedience and there was nothing wrong on King Solomon’s part, as he only meted out a just judgement.

Oftentimes we are forgetful of the fact that we are truly safe, simply because we are under the care of an Almighty God. Especially when we are caught up with the business of the mundane, we tend to not remember that God’s protection is over us as long as we walk in obedience to His commands and live in His presence. So often under various circumstances we too step out of line of God’s commandments and sometimes we are not even aware of this.

Psalm 91 as a whole is the promise and assurance that God gives to those who are His children, who are willing to walk in obedience to Him and live in His presence. Having walked out of God’s protection by willful disobedience there are those who instead of taking stock of their own lives, blame God for the calamities that befall them. It is good for each one of us to analyze our lives and realize that when we deliberately disobey the commandments of God, we will be liable to face the judgement of God on our lives.

I would like to share about one aspect of God’s commandment that is widely being disobeyed today. This is an important command of God, which many having rejected have heaped many hardships and even several ailments on themselves.

How many times should we forgive?

In Matthew 18:21, we read, “Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?”” (ESV)

The case that Peter presented to Jesus was of a brother who sinned against him. Peter knew that forgiveness was a necessity, but he wanted to know as to what was the upper limit one should set for forgiving someone else. To Peter, forgiving someone seven times seemed reasonable enough.

For many people forgiveness is a word that does not even appear in their dictionary. They have no desire to extend forgiveness to anyone. Have you observed how most of the troubles we encounter are from those closest to us? That is why Jesus said in one place that a man’s enemies are members of his own household. This forgiveness must therefore be graciously given to those who are closest to us.

The background to this question

We read in Matthew 18:19, “Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.” (ESV)

Jesus taught His disciples that if two or three would be in unison about anything that they ask, that it would certainly be ratified by the heavenly Father. We as human beings who live on this earth cannot accomplish everything with our own strength and we need divine intervention from God for many of lives circumstances. In fact we require God’s presence and His guidance every moment of our lives. In order to find favor with God and receive answers to our requests, it is mandatory that we pray together with one accord.

One of the reasons for not having received answers to our prayers is because of the lack of oneness while praying. In many families the husband and wife have been praying for various needs and are yet to receive answers to their prayers. This is only because their hearts are not one. While describing the relationship between a husband and wife, the word of God explains that they are no longer two, but one. Therefore, this the primary relationship where this unity should be displayed. Sadly, however, this is the one relationship where many are in discord and conflict. When we strive for that unity that God desires, only then we can be sure that every prayer will be answered.

How does this materialize?

Jesus said in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” (ESV)

Only Jesus could say this statement because though He took on human form, died and was buried, He rose again the third day. This is the promise of Jesus that will never change and gives us the affirmation that wherever two or more are gathered in His name, He will certainly be there in their midst. When two people come together in agreement to pray, the Lord is there with them as the third person. We read all through the Gospels that wherever Jesus went people were delivered, healed and their needs were met. As Jesus explained this profound truth, Peter was prompted to ask the question in Matthew 18:21. Peter was aware that unity among brothers was such a challenge that he was wondering how this would become a possibility.

Especially in families there is so much of differences of opinions between husband and wife. Oftentimes each blames the other for this predicament. It is natural that there will be differences between spouses and family members, but it is vital that each one should be willing to forgive and forget each other’s wrong doings. Our anger towards those who wronged us may be right and just. However, as those who have received God’s gracious forgiveness, we must be ready to extend that same forgiveness to others, irrespective of the injustice meted out to us. There are many who are harboring unforgiving spirit for many long years and the consequence is that they have missed out on the presence of God and their prayers remain unanswered. If a husband and wife will chose to live in unity, there will be nothing that they cannot accomplish together.

How many times should we forgive?

Jesus replied Peter in Matthew 18:22, “Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.” (ESV)

Jesus was categorical with Peter when He stated that the forgiveness one should extend was not seven times, but seventy times seven. In other words Jesus was saying that there was no limit one should set to extending forgiveness to others.

This is God’s command to us and if we are stubborn, not willing to forgive those who wronged us and hold on to the hurts, we will miss out on God’s protection and will give Satan a foothold in our lives. This applies to every relationship, beginning with the husband and wife, siblings, parents and children, in the family, in the church and in society as well. If this is not practiced we will without doubt bring untold miseries on ourselves and on our families.

It is God’s desire to bless us but we as His children have certain responsibilities to fulfill. When Jesus went to the marriage at Cana where there was a lack for wine. Jesus did not fill the stone pots with water and then turn them to wine. Instead, He instructed the servants to fill the six stone jars with water and when they obeyed, He did His part to turn that water into wine. When Lazarus died and was placed in the tomb for four days, Jesus commanded that the stone be removed from the entrance of the tomb. It was only when they did their part, did Jesus do His part to raise dead Lazarus back to life. Jesus had the power to roll the stone away as well, but it was only when they were willing to do what they could, did Jesus perform that amazing miracle of raising a dead man to life. So too only when we are willing to obey the word of God implicitly, will we too be able to experience the wonders and deliverance of God in our lives.

The command of God is simple, we have to keep on forgiving others irrespective of how many ever times they offend us. As a wife or husband we must be willing and ready to forgive each other from the heart. We must realize that as human beings we are all prone to making mistakes. Sometimes as parents we hurt our children and we must be willing to repent of them. This forgiveness must be extended by parents to children and by children to their parents too.

What happens when forgiveness is withheld?

In Matthew 18:23-35 Jesus told a parable to explain this point on forgiveness. This parable is about what is expected in the Kingdom of God and the regulations that one needs to follow in order to enter the same.

We read in Matthew 18:23 “So God's kingdom is like a king who decided to collect the money his servants owed him.” (ERV)

The king in this parable calls for accounting from his servants for the money that was entrusted to them. We should not be misled to think that God is gracious and will not hold us accountable for all that He has committed to us. As the king took stock, there was brought before him a servant who owed him a huge sum of money. On finding that he was unable to pay back the king commanded that he be thrown in prison and that his wife and children be sold to repay the debt. However, when the servant fell at his feet and pleaded for mercy to the king, he willingly and graciously forgave the servant to free him of all that he owed.

This servant went out to find a fellow-servant who owed him a very small sum of money. This amount was totally insignificant when compared with what the servant owed the king. The servant asked his fellow-servant to pay back the little amount he owed him. When the fellow-servant expressed his inability to do so, the servant ungraciously handed this man to be thrown into prison until he payed him back what he owed.

When the news of this injustice reached the ears of the king, he was infuriated. These are the words of the king to the servant who was forgiven an enormous debt that he owed.

We read in Matthew 18:32-34, “Then his lord called him and said to him, 'You wicked servant, I forgave you all that debt, because you implored me. Were you not also obligated to have compassion on your fellow servant, even as I had compassion on you?' And in anger, his lord delivered him up to the tormentors, until he should pay all that he owed to him.” (AFV)

The king who had previously, graciously forgiven the servant was now angered and condemned him to the tormentors until he paid back everything he owed him.

If we are not willing to forgive others, the matter is taken up to the Lord Himself. All of us are aware that if we were to compare the wrongs that others have done to us with the sins that we have committed against God, they would be inconsequential. We all know for a fact that we have committed innumerable offences against God. If we are still alive it is purely because God in His grace has decided to forgive us and pardon us of all our iniquities. As recipients of such bountiful forgiveness from the Lord, we are certainly obligated to extend the same forgiveness to those who have offended us in any way. There are so many who are undergoing untold misery both in their body and mind and ever so often, this is because of their willingness to forgive those who have offended them.

The promise of God in Psalm 91, that no harm will come near your dwelling, is available only to those who are standing within the security of God’s presence. This cannot be appropriated by those who are living in disobedience and are not willing to forgive others from their hearts.

We read in Matthew 18:35, “Likewise shall My heavenly Father also do to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother's offenses from the heart." (AFV)

The forgiveness that God expects us to extend to others is not a superficial forgiveness, but one that is truly form the depths of our hearts. It means that we will never bring it up again in any conflict or conversation. Just as God has graciously forgiven us, may we too be willing and ready to forgive everyone who has wronged us, so that there will be true unity amongst us. Only then will we enjoy the presence of God and our prayers will certainly be answered.

Pastor Dixon

www.goodnewsfriends.net

Transcribed by Sis. Esther Collins

Psalm 91 - Study 27 - Can anger be righteous?

Psalm 91 - Study 27 - Can Anger be Righteous? 

We read in Psalm 91:9-10, “You, O LORD, are my refuge! You have made the Most High your home. No harm will come to you. No sickness will come near your house.” (GW)

As we continue to meditate on Psalm 91, we have realized that the word of God promises that no harm or sickness will ensue those who have made God their habitation or dwelling. To make God one’s dwelling implies that we trust God and lean on Him completely through every season of our lives with all its ups and downs.

Researchers have concluded that the major cause of diseases that harm mankind are not so much from bacteria or virus, but rather because of the state of one’s mind. The adverse stress and disturbances to the mind leads to break-down in our health. One of the emotions that many battle with is anger which when left unchecked has resulted in harmful effects on our well-being. There is a widespread belief that anger is sinful, but we will delve into the word of God to comprehend the kinds of anger that can be expressed and the effects of the same.

Do not sin in your anger

We read in Ephesians 4:26-27, “If you become angry, do not let your anger lead you into sin, and do not stay angry all day. Don't give the Devil a chance.” (GNB)

From the above mentioned verse we understand that anger is just an emotion and by itself it is not a sin to get angry. However, if this anger is not dealt with in the right way and kept under check, it can lead us into sin.

Righteous Anger

· Moses expressed God’s righteous anger

In Exodus 32:19 we read, “When he came near the camp, he saw the calf and the dancing. In a burst of anger Moses threw down the tablets and smashed them at the foot of the mountain.” (GW)

Moses was on the mountain spending time in the presence of God for many days. The Israelites were based at the foot of that mountain. As Moses was enthralled by the presence of God, he also received the commandments of God which he had to deliver to the people of Israel. God Himself wrote these commandments on the tablets of stone and handed them over to Moses. As Moses descended the mountain after this awesome experience with God he was bewildered to behold the most disgraceful sight. The people of Israel had forgotten all about the living God who brought them out of Egypt and had made for themselves a golden calf which they worshipped and danced around. They also attributed their deliverance from the Egyptian bondage to the calf that they had made with their own hands. When Moses beheld this detestable sight, he was so enraged, that he threw the two tablets of stone and smashed them at the foot of that mountain.

Moses’ anger in this incidence was the reflection of the anger of God that engulfed Moses who stood before the Israelites as God’s representative. This is what we can be call righteous anger.

God told Moses in Exodus 32:8, “They've already turned from the way I commanded them to live. They've made a statue of a calf for themselves. They've bowed down to it and offered sacrifices to it. They've said, 'Israel, here are your gods who brought you out of Egypt.'” (GW)

The Israelites turned away from the commands of God by turning away from the living God and turning to the idol that they had made. This made God truly indignant. The one thing that infuriates God and irritates Him is when we depart from worshiping the living God to worship anything that we have made with our hands.

We read in Exodus 32:10, “Now leave me alone. I'm so angry with them I am going to destroy them.” (GW)

God in His wrath was ready to destroy the people who had disobeyed His commands, deserted Him and followed after the idol that they had made. It was this reflection of God’s righteous anger that was evidenced in Moses when he threw and smashed the tablets of stone that he had just received from God. This is a just or righteous anger shown by Moses was a reflection of the anger of God. If God’s anger was to be hurled at men who had displeased God, they would not stand a chance to survive. Moses stood as the in between to soften this anger of God, by expressing it himself and this was a just or righteous anger.

· Eli failed to express a righteous anger

Eli was a priest of God in the temple. However, when Eli’s sons rebelled against God and continued in sin, Eli failed to admonish them. The consequence of Eli’s negligence was that the anger of God was poured out on Eli’s sons and both of them were destroyed in one day.

As children of God, when we witness injustice in any form we can be certain that the judgement of God will come upon it. Nonetheless, if God prompts us, we should be sure to raise our voice against such wrongdoing, for only then will we be the reflection of God’s righteous anger. This will always turn out for the good of many and not for their evil.

As parents, when God has entrusted us with children, it is God’s will that we bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. That is the reason why when our children do wrong, we get angry with them. This is a righteous anger because we love them and desire their wellbeing. On the contrary if we ignore their mistakes, they will grow up to be wayward children who will someday have to be met with the righteous anger of God Himself.

· Jesus expressed this righteous anger at the temple

It is recorded in John 2:13-16, “The Jewish Passover was near, so Jesus went to Jerusalem. He found those who were selling cattle, sheep, and pigeons in the temple courtyard. He also found money changers sitting there. He made a whip from small ropes and threw everyone with their sheep and cattle out of the temple courtyard. He dumped the money changers' coins and knocked over their tables. He told those who sold pigeons, "Pick up this stuff, and get it out of here! Stop making my Father's house a marketplace!" (GW)

Jesus entered the temple that day to find that the place of prayer and worship had been converted into a business center. Sadly, both in the days of Jesus and today there are those who will use any and everything for financial gain. This offended Jesus so much that He was furious and sought to cleanse the temple. He wanted the temple to get back to its original purpose, to be a place of prayer and not one for business transactions. Jesus made a whip of small ropes and chased all those who were involved in this business out of the temple. Jesus is portrayed as meek and humble of heart, but when encountered with injustice, He did not hesitate to display the righteous anger of God.

After the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, the Holy Spirit of God was sent to abide inside each one of us. The word of God refers to our bodies as the temple of God within which the Holy Spirit of God desires to dwell. So our bodies too need to be a place where God is worshiped, praised, glorified and not being used for our own selfish ends. Since our bodies are the temple of the living God, we must yearn for God to be glorified and honored in this body.

As we read in Ephesians 4:26-27, “Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.” (NKJV)

Both Moses and Jesus did get angry, but their anger was a just and righteous anger. They most certainly did the right thing and did not sin in their anger, for it was simply a reflection of God’s just wrath.

It is always good to analyze our anger to see if it the righteous anger that reflects the justice of God or is it a selfish anger that is expressed as a result of our hurt ego.

Ephesians 4:26 also cautions us that we should not let the anger linger on, but should let is subside before the sun goes down.

God Himself will not be angry forever

We read in Isaiah 57:16, “I will not accuse you forever. I will not be angry with you forever. Otherwise, the spirits, the lives of those I've made, would grow faint in my presence.” (GW)

The above verse portrays most beautifully the loving and compassionate heart of God. God Almighty Himself sets a limit to His anger which is just and righteous. The reason is He understands the frailty and feebleness of human beings.

This is so unlike so many people who are harboring the insults, injustice and hurts caused them by others for many long years. We do not undermine these ill-treatments, but if they are left to linger on, they become unjust anger that eventually harms the one who holds on to these grudges. Sadly, it also affects all other relationships and results in break-down of these relationships as well. That is why we are exhorted in Ephesians 4:26, to let go of this anger and settle scores even before the sun sets. Let us decide to release all those hurts and resentment that continue in our hearts for many long years and be released from the grips of anger that overrules us.

There are some who have turned their anger against God because of some difficult situations and explainable events that have transpired in their lives. They are unable to come to grips with these circumstances and have diverted their annoyance toward God. If we harbor anger against God Almighty, we are hopeless and helpless as none else can save us from our calamities. If that is your state, it is time to repent, get back to God and make Him your refuge and fortress. To the ones who do this, God will intervene to do the miraculous and bring about the deliverance that you sought after for a long time. Anger that is not dealt with as God counsels us to will certainly affect our present and future adversely.

We read in Ephesians 4:27, “Don't give the Devil a chance.” (GNB)

If anger is not managed properly the word of God cautions us that we will be giving the Devil a foothold in our lives. All of us are aware of the numerous consequences of Adam and Eve letting Satan gain entrance into their lives at the Garden of Eden. One can be sure that if the enemy gains access into our lives, it will only be for our ruin and never for our good.

Here is an incident from the Bible on what could transpire when one does not deal with anger and gives room for the enemy to enter in.

Cain’s fury against Abel

In Genesis chapter 4 we read that Cain and Abel brought an offering to the Lord. God respected Abel’s offering and did not respect Cain’s. While Abel brought fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock, his older brother Cain offered some of the fruits of the soil to God. As God searched the hearts of the two brothers, He accepted Abel’s offering because his heart was right before God. When God did not favor Cain’s offering, instead of repenting, Cain got furious with his brother. These are the words of God to Cain as he pondered on this with anger and resentment.

In Genesis 4:7, “If you do well, won't you be accepted? But if you don't do well, sin is lying outside your door ready to attack.” (GW)

God in His grace warned Cain regards the anger that he festered in his heart. God alerted him that sin was at his doorstep and that if he was not watchful it would overcome him. Cain did not heed God’s voice of caution, but went ahead to slay his own brother in the field.

This was the consequence that Cain had to face as recorded in Genesis 4:16, “And Cain went away from the LORD's presence and lived in a land called "Wandering," which is east of Eden.” (GNB)

This was the aftermath of Cain’s evil act of murdering his own brother. He was shunned from the presence of God and had to live the life of a wanderer.

Whenever, we bring our gifts to the Lord, we must be reminded that God perceives the inmost thoughts and intentions of our hearts. No one should presume that they could earn in unethical ways and bring their offering to the Lord, hoping he would approve. The caution of God comes to those who like Cain continue to hold on to anger in their hearts. The most precious thing we could lose by continuing in anger is that we could miss out on the very presence of God. When we give the enemy the foothold, we will become tools in his hand and miss out on being those who can fulfill the purposes of God in our lives. Let us decide to let go every kind of anger that we have concealed in our hearts, shut the door to the Devil, lay them down at the feet of Jesus and be set free to lead the purpose filled life that God has called us to.

Pastor Dixon

www.goodnewsfriends.net

Transcribed by Sis. Esther Collins

Psalm 91 - Study 26 - Overcome anger to overpower sickness

Psalm 91 -  Study 26 - Overcome anger to Overpower sickness 

We read in Psalm 91:10, “So nothing bad will happen to you. No diseases will come near your home.” (ERV)

We need to ponder on this blessed promise of God that is available to us His children. We studied earlier that this promise is applicable to those who according to Psalm 91:9 have made God their dwelling place. This is God’s assurance to those who are completely dependent on God at all times and in all situations. To such, no evil will befall them and there is the guarantee that no diseases will come near their homes. However, this will only be appropriated in the lives of those who hear the word of God and are willing to trust His word implicitly. 

Researchers on human health have discovered that 75-90% of sicknesses are often related to mental stress. Especially during this season of pandemic, there is a prevalent sense of fear that has gripped the hearts of many people globally. Medical Professionals advice that if people can build up a strong immunity that it is possible to fight off this virus. If this is the case, we will deal with some of these stress issues in this study and try to understand how we can overcome these pressures on the basis of God’s word.

For instance someone who holds a grudge or has hatred against another for a long time and fumes every time they set their eyes on them, should not be surprised if they end up with stomach ulcers. There are those who will be easily offended by the things other’s say and others who are constantly anxious and fearful about various situations. Such people will experience increased heart rate, which will often result in them having hyper tension. The reason I am explaining this in detail is to help us realize that many of the sicknesses that our bodies get inflicted with are frequently related to our own mental and emotional state.

I was chatting with a doctor friend who told me that in recent times many of the patients who come for consultation have strange symptoms. They complain of intense discomfort, but after several medical investigations it is proved that there is nothing apparently wrong with them. The reason for these physical ailments she said was often related to some unresolved issues in their lives. She further told me that a casual talk with them revealed the fact that most of them were challenged with difficulties either in their family or work place which displayed itself in the form of some bodily ailment.

There are several issues that contribute to our maladies and we will consider one which is extremely crucial in this study.

The problem of anger

We read in Proverbs 14:29, “If you stay calm, you are wise, but if you have a hot temper, you only show how stupid you are.” (GNB)

Anger is a serious concern for many who are struggling with the same. Often when anger is intense, they will blurt out things that they never really intended to say. There is a story told of the owner of a huge company who was a hot tempered man, and when he got mad, he would fire anyone who annoyed him ever so slightly. Knowing his temperament most of the staff stayed clear off his path. However, one day as he entered the company, he saw a young man at the entrance who was deeply engrossed with his mobile phone. As staff had been warned to not use their mobiles during working hours, he was infuriated at this sight and asked the young man what his salary was per month. On finding out from the young man that he received a salary of Rupees 8000 per month, the owner sacked him immediately by issuing a check for rupees twenty-four thousand, as a compensation for three months. Unable to get in a word to this angry man, the young man hesitatingly walked out with the check in his hand. A couple of hours later when the owner had cooled down, the manager approached him and explained to him that the young man to whom he had issued the check was just a courier boy who had come to deliver a parcel and he was not an employee in the company. It may sound hilarious, but it is a fact that we will be the losers if we do not keep our temper under control. This sort of a financial loss may be amendable, but there are other consequences to unrestrained anger.

In Job 5:2 we read, “A fool's anger will kill him.” (ERV)

There are some who when they are mad with someone will have no control of their emotions and will fling anything that is in their hands. Someone shared an incident where the husband of the family got so furious one day that he threw down and destroyed their newly purchased television set, which they had taken much effort to buy. Anger as we see can be destructive and if not controlled will certainly result in huge loss. There is always a chance that we can replace material things when they are broken. However, the words that are blurted out in anger can be so hurtful and cause deep hurts that will not be healed easily. When words are used without caution, they have the power to break-down relationships.

Why does one get angry?

1. When treated unfairly

Generally one will get angry when they are treated unjustly or if they in some way sense that that there is injustice meted out to them. In a family for instance, the child is given a mobile these days to join in for on line classes. The parents notice that the child instead of studying is engrossed with games. The parents decide to take the cell phone away from the child to teach discipline. To the child this may seem unfair and he or she may be annoyed with the parents. The child may even consider that their parents are killjoys for doing so. It is a natural response for anyone to be enraged when we are treated unjustly. Nonetheless, the way we express that anger and handle the situation will determine if it is sinful or not.

· The way David handled injustice

We read in 2 Samuel 16:5-7, “When King David arrived at Bahurim, one of Saul's relatives, Shimei son of Gera, came out to meet him, cursing him as he came. Shimei started throwing stones at David and his officials, even though David was surrounded by his men and his bodyguards. Shimei cursed him and said, "Get out! Get out! Murderer! Criminal!” (GNB)

In this incident while David was the King of Israel, still on the throne, his own son Absalom schemed and confiscated the throne of his father. As David fled from Absalom, he is surrounded by valiant men who are his officials. As they are in flight, a man named Shimei, a relative of King Saul cursed King David and threw stones at David and his men. The situation that David found himself in was one of total injustice and David’s warriors suggested that they kill Shimei. But let’s listen to David’s counsel to his men in the verse below.

David said to his men in 2 Samuel 16:10 "This is none of your business," the king said to Abishai and his brother Joab. "If he curses me because the LORD told him to, who has the right to ask why he does it?" (GNB)

David did not permit his men to do any harm to Shimei though it was in their power to do so. As one who always looked to the Lord, David understood that without God’s permission nothing would transpire in his life. David perceived that if God had allowed this kind of insults to be hurled on him, it would at some point turn out for his own good.

Oftentimes we get so outraged by things people have said or done to us. We harbor these bitter feelings in our hearts, it will erupt unexpectedly and instead of affecting the person who did harm this anger will be vented out on the wrong people. The consequence we will face are broken relationships, loss of peace with no bearing whatsoever on the one who actually hurt us. The aftermath of uncontrolled anger will be experienced solely by the one who unleashes it. Over a period of time, such a person will be referred to as an angry person, as every little issue will be a cause for them to lose their cool.

Let’s see what happened to Shimei a few years down the line.

We read in 2 Samuel 19:18-19, “They crossed the river to escort the royal party across and to do whatever the king wanted. As the king was getting ready to cross, Shimei threw himself down in front of him and said, "Your Majesty, please forget the wrong I did that day you left Jerusalem. Don't hold it against me or think about it any more.” (GNB)

As David returned back to regain his kingdom, Shimei met David, payed obeisance and begged for him to have mercy on him.

To those who insult us or treat us improperly, if like David we are willing to let the Lord avenge, in due course they too will approach us with a penitent and submissive heart. That is the justice God will give to us for being willing to bear unfair reproach and acknowledge His Lordship over every difficult situation that we encounter.

2. When we feel powerless and helpless

Sometimes when people are entangled in circumstances that are beyond their control, there is a sense of helplessness that engulfs them and this infuriates them.

· What David did when he felt powerless

We read in 1 Samuel 21:10, “So David left, fleeing from Saul, and went to King Achish of Gath.” (GNB)

In this event recorded in 1 Samuel 21, David fled from King Saul and sought refuge with King Achish of Gath. The people of Gath recognized David to be the mighty man of valor who was next in line to be king of Israel. However, when David was brought before King Achish, he realized that the king when informed of this could put him to death. Here’s what David did.

We read in 1 Samuel 21:13, “So whenever David was around them, he pretended to be insane and acted like a madman when they tried to restrain him; he would scribble on the city gates and let spit drool down his beard.” (GNB)

David feigned himself mad and put on an act like a madman every time he was around the people. King Achish was so convinced that David was indeed insane that he sent him away from his presence and did not bother about him at all. David was not a simple man, he was a man of great fortitude, the one who had killed the mighty Goliath. However, in that situation where he was defenseless, at the mercy of an alien king, he decided to humble himself and acted like a lunatic.

Hear the words of David in Psalm 34:1, “I will always thank the LORD; I will never stop praising him.” (GNB)

In times when we feel vulnerable and incompetent, may we too like David praise the Lord instead of giving room for wrath.

3. When our expectation are not fulfilled

There are those who are resolute that the things they have planned should materialize the exact way they want it to. Often, when there are hindrances to these plans, they will be enraged.

· When things didn’t go as David planned

Here’s another event from the life of David that will encourage us to know how David handled such situations. During the reign of King David, his own son Absalom, plotted and usurped the throne of his father David. David did not get bitter or indignant with his son. As a result of Absalom’s plot, there was a war between David’s men and Absalom’s men. Here’s the plea of David to his mighty men before they waged war, that they should spare his son Absalom and not kill him in battle. Wistfully, in that battle, Absalom was killed by David’s men. Though what David planned and what eventuated were in contradiction, this was David’s response.

We read in 2 Samuel 19:4, “The king covered his face and cried loudly, "O my son! My son Absalom! Absalom, my son!"” (GNB)

David did not get enraged with his men, but instead he grieved for the loss and wept for his son.

There are many who are harboring anger in their hearts over various issues. It may not seem obvious to us, but often it is evident to those who come in contact with us. This anger could be over unfair treatment or those helpless situations or any unfulfilled expectations. No matter what, if we can understand that God is in control over our lives and He can intervene to change every situation, we can definitely be rid of all our anger. If we do not deal with the issues that troubled us and allow them to surface in our memories, we will be giving room for anger in our hearts. This anger will become a habit and people will brand us as an angry person. Generally people avoid those who are irate for fear of confrontation with them.

If anger is our problem, may we plead with the Lord to deal with this and replace it with a spirit of peace and calmness. During this season of pandemic, many are challenged with circumstances that seem to be way beyond our control. There are myriad issues in the family and at work. Many things we planned and hoped for have come crashing to the ground. Instead of suppressing all these feelings inside and harboring anger, let us confess them to the Lord and permit Him to take over. If we can find serenity in the presence of God, we will also find health and healing for many of our physical ailments as well. If anger is our struggle, may God help us to deal with the same, so we can be rid of it. Let us abide in the presence of God and enjoy the peace, tranquility and well-being that He alone can give.

Pastor Dixon

www.goodnewsfriends.net

Transcribed by Sis. Esther Collins

Psalm 91 - Study 25 - No evil will befall you

Psalm 91 -  Study 25 - No Evil Will Befall You 

We read in Psalm 91:10, “So nothing bad will happen to you. No diseases will come near your home.” (ERV)

We have understood from our previous study that this promise of God as mentioned in the verse above, that ‘no diseases will come near your home,’ holds good for those who have made God their dwelling place. In other words, this can be appropriated by anyone who trusts in the Lord at all times.

Some of us may wonder as to how it is possible for one to say that no evil will befall us, when we are surrounded with so many calamities all around us. If we were to ask anyone to define what evil is, this would probably be their response. Most people would refer to evil as any sad, depressing or painful incident that happens in their lives. The reason we refer to these as evil is because we are unaware of what their outcome would be in the future.

Let us study the life of a young man in the bible, who was challenged with such hardships and trials in succession. However as this young man stood firm in his faith in the Lord, he not only overcame these calamities, but also allowed God to fulfill His promises made to him in due course.

Joseph was thrown in a pit

We read in Genesis 37:23-24, “So when Joseph reached his brothers, they stripped him of his special robe with long sleeves. Then they took him and put him into an empty cistern. It had no water in it.” (GW)

Joseph belonged to a family of sheep herders. He was the favorite son of his father Jacob. One day when his elder brothers had gone away to a distant place to tend their flock, Joseph was sent by his father to take food for his brothers. God endowed Joseph with the gift of having dreams and also comprehending their meaning. When the brothers of Joseph saw him from afar they plotted to do away with Joseph, simply because of the dreams that Joseph had which he shared with them earlier. Those dreams seemed to imply that someday Joseph would rule over them. Though they initially schemed to kill him, they later decided to throw him into a dry pit which was precisely what they did. If we were to ponder on the awful situation that Joseph had landed in, we would assume that nothing good would ever come of it.

The reason for Joseph’s predicament was that his brothers were envious of him. Jealousy is a powerful emotion and when it takes over a person, it instigates them to do evil to the one whom they are envious of.

We read in Proverbs 27:4, “Anger is cruel and destructive, but it is nothing compared to jealousy.” (GNB)

Here’s a simple illustration from children at school. If one child should have an expensive school bag that is really attractive, other children will look on that child enviously. Sadly, this emotion is found not only in children, but in many an adult too. As grown-ups we may envy the new car that our neighbor bought inwardly, but outwardly we may cover it up and say nice things to them about their purchase. However, if that neighbor’s new car should have a slight scratch on its sides, this jealousy that is hidden inside will exhibit itself by way of a subtle sense of joy over the mishap, instead of a sense of sadness. No wonder the word of God refers to jealousy as an emotion far more cruel and destructive than anger.

It is good for us to take a check to see if there is jealousy remotely hidden inside of us. When someone is doing better than us, is placed in a better job, has better looks this feeling of envy will often be evidenced within us. In order to overcome this feeling of jealousy, we must learn to be thankful to the Lord for all that He has bestowed on us. One should not think that envy is an emotion that is prevalent in many and hence can be ignored. The truth is that if left unchecked jealousy can prompt people to do things that are totally displeasing to God and harmful to others.

When was the last time we stopped to thank God for His manifold blessings that He has showered on us? In the last six months with the onset of the pandemic, so many have succumbed to it. However, if we are still alive and well it is the absolute grace of God. Instead of comparing ourselves with others, let us look at our own lives and be grateful to the Lord for every good thing we have received from His loving hands.

Joseph was sold into slavery

We read in Genesis 37:28, “and when some Midianite traders came by, the brothers pulled Joseph out of the well and sold him for twenty pieces of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.” (GNB)

The brothers of Joseph were so overcome with envy that they took Joseph out of the pit and sold him into slavery for twenty pieces of silver, just to be rid of him. Jealousy has the power to provoke a person to do more and more evil. That’s exactly what it did to Joseph’s brothers who sold their own brother to the Ishmaelites, like they would some merchandise. They thought that by doing so they would put an end to all his dreams. Notice how their jealousy now led them to become greedy for gain.

Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6:10, “The love of money causes all kinds of evil. Some people have turned away from what we believe because they want to get more and more money. But they have caused themselves a lot of pain and sorrow.” (ERV)

We need to read this verse carefully and note that money in itself is not evil, but it is the love of money that is the root of all kind so evil. There are many families where siblings have taken each other to court to acquire a small piece of property. Then there are others who extend their boundaries into someone else’s property without their knowledge. The word of God cautions us that any sort of greed or craze for money is most assuredly the root of evil. Those who go after these things will backslide and most certainly plunge themselves into much pain and sorrow. When the love of money becomes deep rooted in one’s heart, it is a given that they will fall away from their relationship with God and definitely decline in their faith. The love for money is a trap that the enemy has set to hinder us from drawing close to God, His word and prayer. If instead of being content we are driven with a constant yearning to amass more and more, it is a sure sign that we are obsessed with the love for money.

Joseph was falsely accused

What happened to Joseph next was that he ended up being sold as a slave to Potiphar who was one of the officials of Pharaoh, King of Egypt. Here again we find Joseph in a despicable situation. Through all the challenges that confronted Joseph, not once do we hear him complain or question God as to the hard path that he had to pass. Somehow, Joseph seemed to know that the good God he believed in was in complete control and that whatever He allowed would be for Joseph’s good only. Joseph remained a faithful slave to Potiphar and was made in charge of his entire household.

Potiphar’s wife noticed Joseph and desired to have an affair with him. We read in Genesis 39:7 “And it came to pass after these things that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said: 'Lie with me.'” (JPS)

Flee sexual immorality

Here’s the word of admonition from God’s word in 1 Corinthian 6:18, “Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.” (ESV)

There are still those Delilah’s and Potiphar’s wives who wish to lure men into sin. This is true of men too and therefore both men and women need to exercise great caution in this area of sexual purity. Potiphar’s wife saw Joseph was a handsome man and lusted after him.

Have you observed how most of the sins start with the eyes? Everyone irrespective of whether they are young or old are now in possession of a cell phone. These cell phones in the hands of young children can be a snare and many parents are not aware of the kind of exposure children are receiving from them. The internet is now dumping into our cell phones and systems unimaginable obscenity. This is true even in the newspapers we read, mainly in the advertisements that are being portrayed in them. As parents it is our responsibility to keep a check on children to prevent them from going astray and having their minds filled with trash which will certainly affect their future. These images will corrupt young minds and that is why the word of God warns us to flee from sexual immorality.

Joseph’s response to temptation

We read in Genesis 39:9, “he is not greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back anything from me but thee, because thou art his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?'” (ESV)

These are the words of Joseph to the wife of Potiphar when she allured him. He made it very clear to her that she was his master’s wife and that he therefore had no right to have a relationship with her. He further reiterated to her that this would be a great wickedness against God who was watching over Him. This is a statement of Joseph makes us ponder deeply on his understanding of God, as he stood firm and had decided that He would do nothing against a holy God. Joseph lived his life in constant fear and reverence that God was with him all the time. Joseph literally fled from the presence of Potiphar’s wife, leaving behind his coat in her hand which she used to frame Joseph falsely.

If anyone else was in Joseph’s position, they might have thought it was an opportunity to better themselves. This is a good caution to all of us to keep in mind that God is watching over us all the time. The things we watch on our mobiles or the conversations we engage in, may be hidden from others, but everything is disclosed to God. One of the reasons why many continue to be entangled in sin is because they are not conscious of the fact that everything that is being done without the knowledge of men, is revealed to God, and there are no secrets with Him.

Joseph landed up in prison

We read in Genesis 39:20, “And Joseph's master took him and put him into the prison, the place where the king's prisoners were confined, and he was there in prison.” (ESV)

For nothing wrong that Joseph had done, he was falsely charged and thrown in prison. If we think about it, here again nothing was going good for Joseph who was constantly being confronted with untold trials.

Joseph is elevated by Pharaoh

A few years later, Pharaoh the King of Egypt had a couple of dreams that no one could interpret. When Pharaoh was informed that Joseph had the special ability to interpret dreams, he was called by Pharaoh to elucidate the meaning of the dreams. Joseph shared the meaning of the dreams vividly to Pharaoh, who was so pleased with Joseph that he decided to do something exceptional.

We read about this in Genesis 41:41-43, “And Pharaoh said to Joseph, “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt.” Then Pharaoh took his signet ring from his hand and put it on Joseph's hand, and clothed him in garments of fine linen and put a gold chain about his neck. And he made him ride in his second chariot. And they called out before him, “Bow the knee!” Thus he set him over all the land of Egypt.”(ESV)

A man who had been challenged with myriad of hardships, evil and injustice was suddenly elevated to be the topmost person in Egypt, next only to Pharaoh. The dreams of Pharaoh was a revelation from God that there would be seven years of plenty, followed by seven years of severe famine. Joseph’s wise counsel to Pharaoh was that if the food grains were stored during the seven years of plenty, they would have enough to tide over the years of scarcity and famine that were to follow. This greatly pleased Pharaoh who not only heeded Joseph’s advice, but also made him the one in charge to carry out this wonderful plan.

As the seven years of famine came over Egypt, this famine spread to other parts of the earth as well. Joseph’s family who lived in Canaan were not exempt from this famine, and so the brothers on being informed that there was food in Egypt, made their way to procure some food for their families. It was here that they meet Joseph not even knowing that the ruler of Egypt who stood before them was their own brother.

Joseph recognized the good hand of God

These are the words of Joseph to his brothers in Genesis 50:20, “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to save many people alive, as is happening today.” (WEB)

Joseph did not take revenge or speak ill of his brothers though he had the power to do so, for he could comprehend that all the evil that God had permitted in his life turned out for his own good and the good of all his family.

Paul says it this way in Romans 8:28, “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose.” (WEB)

To the ones who cling on to God, love Him and are called according to His purpose, they are guaranteed that everything they encounter, no matter how hard or difficult it is will eventually turn out for their own good.

James was slain by the sword

It is recorded in Acts 12:1-2, “About that time Herod the king laid violent hands on some who belonged to the church. He killed James the brother of John with the sword,” (ESV)

If we were to hear of some news as mentioned in the verse above we would certainly consider it as evil that was meted out to James. In the eyes of the world this was surely a heinous crime.

However we read in Hebrews 11:35, “Women received back their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life.” (ESV)

Paul further says in Philippians 1:21, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (ESV)

In this world death is looked at with dread, but for those who believe in the Lord will have no fear of death for the instant that we face death, we will be transported to live with the Lord forever. That is why Paul could boldly say that for him to live was Christ and that death was gain.

Peter escapes prison

We read in Acts 12:4, “And when he (Herod) had seized him (Peter), he put him in prison, delivering him over to four squads of soldiers to guard him, intending after the Passover to bring him out to the people.” (ESV)

King Herod put James to death and he now wanted to do the same to Peter. King Herod put him in prison and had sixteen soldiers guarding his cell. The church got together and prayed most fervently. As the church gathered together in houses to pray, the Lord sent His angel to deliver Peter from prison. Peter had not yet completed God’s purpose for his life. God had ordained the days for Peter and until that was accomplished no one could cut it short, for he was under God’s divine protection.

Even when Jesus was here on earth, twice they tried to kill Him, but no one could do anything until the Father’s appointed time had come. Pilate who tried Jesus before his crucifixion said to Jesus, ‘I have authority to release you or crucify you’, Jesus answered him in John 19:11, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above.” (ESV) It was in the fullness of God’s time that Jesus gave His life on the cross for the sins of the whole world.

There is a mighty move of God when people come together to pray. That is why the word of God encourages us in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” (ESV) No one can hinder these prayers that are being made to the Lord.

In conclusion let me remind us from Romans 8:38-39, “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (ESV)

As children of God let us be assured that when the word of God promises us that ‘no evil will come near our dwelling’ that is an unshakable promise. Nonetheless, on our part no matter what we are challenged with, if we can stand firm in the Lord, He will see us through and change everything that confronts us entirely for our good.

Pastor Dixon

www.goodnewsfriends.net

Transcribed by Sis. Esther Collins