Devotional

Is the LORD done with Israel?

Sometimes, the clearest answer from God is waiting right above us—if only we’d lift our eyes from our screens.  Do you see the Sun, depending on the time of day, or do you see the moon or stars? This is the answer from GOD to that question, is the LORD done with Israel?  NO! HE is not!

The book of Jeremiah says.

Jer 31:35-37

THUS SAYS THE LORD, Who gives the sun for a light by day, The ordinances of the moon and the stars for a light by night, Who disturbs the sea, And its waves roar (THE LORD OF HOSTS IS HIS NAME): “IF THOSE ORDINANCES DEPART FROM BEFORE ME, SAYS THE LORD, THEN THE SEED OF ISRAEL SHALL ALSO CEASE FROM BEING A NATION BEFORE ME FOREVER.” THUS SAYS THE LORD: “IF HEAVEN ABOVE CAN BE MEASURED, AND THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE EARTH SEARCHED OUT BENEATH, I WILL ALSO CAST OFF ALL THE SEED OF ISRAEL FOR ALL THAT THEY HAVE DONE, SAYS THE LORD.

Just in case is hard to understand, below is the NLT version of this scripture!

Jer 31:35-37 NLT version!

IT IS THE LORD WHO PROVIDES THE SUN TO LIGHT THE DAY AND THE MOON AND STARS TO LIGHT THE NIGHT, AND WHO STIRS THE SEA INTO ROARING WAVES. HIS NAME IS THE LORD OF HEAVEN’S ARMIES, AND THIS IS WHAT HE SAYS: “I AM AS LIKELY TO REJECT MY PEOPLE ISRAEL AS I AM TO ABOLISH THE LAWS OF NATURE!” THIS IS WHAT THE LORD SAYS: “JUST AS THE HEAVENS CANNOT BE MEASURED AND THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE EARTH CANNOT BE EXPLORED, SO I WILL NOT CONSIDER CASTING THEM AWAY FOR THE EVIL THEY HAVE DONE. I, THE LORD, HAVE SPOKEN!

You may say, well that’s the Old Testament, but dont forget that the LORD doesn’t lie.

Num 23:19  “God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent. HAS HE SAID, AND WILL HE NOT DO? OR HAS HE SPOKEN, AND WILL HE NOT MAKE IT GOOD?

In the Book of Romans, it says

Rom 11:25-29  For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, LEST YOU SHOULD BE WISE IN YOUR OWN OPINION, THAT BLINDNESS IN PART HAS HAPPENED TO ISRAEL UNTIL THE FULLNESS OF THE GENTILES HAS COME IN.  (26)  AND SO ALL ISRAEL WILL BE SAVED, as it is written: “THE DELIVERER WILL COME OUT OF ZION, AND HE WILL TURN AWAY UNGODLINESS FROM JACOB;  (27)  FOR THIS IS MY COVENANT WITH THEM, WHEN I TAKE AWAY THEIR SINS.”  (28)  Concerning the gospel they are enemies for your sake, but concerning the election they are beloved for the sake of the fathers.  (29)  FOR THE GIFTS AND THE CALLING OF GOD ARE IRREVOCABLE.

Israel is blind concerning JESUS, but that blindness will eventually be removed. I remember when I was blind about who JESUS also, but HE opened my eyes to the truth of HIS word! The same will happen to Israel once the fullness of the gentiles comes in!

Romans 11:25 says that “some of Israel has been hardened,” but not all—and not forever. This means that many Jewish people do believe in JESUS, even if others don’t. SO IT’S NOT FAIR TO JUDGE THE WHOLE NATION JUST BECAUSE SOME HAVEN’T ACCEPTED HIM.

Think about it this way: SHOULD GOD CONDEMN EVERY AMERICAN FOR THE ESTIMATED 63 MILLION ABORTIONS SINCE ROE V. WADE? OF COURSE NOT. We know individuals make their own choices. In the same way, we should be careful not to blame all of Israel for the actions of some or the majority. GOD’S PLAN IS STILL UNFOLDING, AND IT’S FULL OF WISDOM AND MERCY. INSTEAD OF JUDGING, WE’RE CALLED TO STAY HUMBLE, KEEP PRAYING, AND HOLD ON TO HOPE.

Verse 26 also shows that Israel is sinful, but the simple fact is that we are all sinful. Does Israel deserve the love of GOD, No

Deu 7:7-8

The LORD did not set His love on you nor choose you because you were more in number than any other people, for you were the least of all peoples; BUT BECAUSE THE LORD LOVES YOU, AND BECAUSE HE WOULD KEEP THE OATH WHICH HE SWORE TO YOUR FATHERS…

Exodus 32:13

Remember Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, Your servants, TO WHOM YOU SWORE BY YOUR OWN SELF, AND SAID TO THEM, ‘I WILL MULTIPLY YOUR DESCENDANTS AS THE STARS OF HEAVEN; AND ALL THIS LAND THAT I HAVE SPOKEN OF I GIVE TO YOUR DESCENDANTS, AND THEY SHALL INHERIT IT FOREVER.’ “

Is it because Israel was righteous before GOD?  NO!

Deu 9:4-6

“DO NOT THINK IN YOUR HEART, after the LORD your God has cast them out before you, saying, ‘BECAUSE OF MY RIGHTEOUSNESS THE LORD HAS BROUGHT ME IN TO POSSESS THIS LAND’; BUT IT IS BECAUSE OF THE WICKEDNESS OF THESE NATIONS THAT THE LORD IS DRIVING THEM OUT FROM BEFORE YOU. IT IS NOT BECAUSE OF YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS OR THE UPRIGHTNESS OF YOUR HEART THAT YOU GO IN TO POSSESS THEIR LAND, BUT BECAUSE OF THE WICKEDNESS OF THESE NATIONS THAT THE LORD YOUR GOD DRIVES THEM OUT FROM BEFORE YOU, and that He may fulfill the word which the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. THEREFORE UNDERSTAND THAT THE LORD YOUR GOD IS NOT GIVING YOU THIS GOOD LAND TO POSSESS BECAUSE OF YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS, FOR YOU ARE A STIFF-NECKED PEOPLE.

Eze 36:22

“Therefore say to the house of Israel, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD: “I DO NOT DO THIS FOR YOUR SAKE, O HOUSE OF ISRAEL, BUT FOR MY HOLY NAME’S SAKE, which you have profaned among the nations wherever you went.

GOD’s motivation is HIS HOLY NAME! As representatives of GOD Israel has profaned HIS GOOD NAME! HE keeps HIS promises and it’s not based on the actions of Israel. Because of their sins they (Israel) was exiled to other countries, but GOD remained faithful to HIS promises! Israel at times abandon GOD, but HE never abandoned them! HE was always there and is currently with them now!

2Tim 2:13

If we are faithless, HE REMAINS FAITHFUL; HE CANNOT DENY HIMSELF.

Amo 9:14-15  I WILL BRING BACK THE CAPTIVES OF MY PEOPLE ISRAEL; They shall build the waste cities and inhabit them; They shall plant vineyards and drink wine from them; They shall also make gardens and eat fruit from them.  (15)  I WILL PLANT THEM IN THEIR LAND, AND NO LONGER SHALL THEY BE PULLED UP FROM THE LAND I HAVE GIVEN THEM,” SAYS THE LORD YOUR GOD.

GOD is faithful. He never forgets His promises, and His covenant with Israel still stands. Scripture tells us that a day is coming when THE VEIL WILL BE LIFTED (2Cor 3:12-18), and all of Israel will recognize JESUS AS THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD—their long-awaited Messiah.

But that moment will be extremely sad for them; As Zechariah prophesied, “THEY WILL LOOK ON ME, THE ONE THEY HAVE PIERCED, AND THEY WILL MOURN FOR HIM AS ONE MOURNS FOR AN ONLY CHILD” (ZECHARIAH 12:10). THEIR EYES WILL BE OPENED, AND THEIR HEARTS WILL BREAK—NOT ONLY WITH SORROW, BUT WITH THE DEEP ACHE OF REALIZING THEY HAD REJECTED THE VERY ONE WHO CAME TO SAVE THEM.

Yet even in their mourning, there is mercy. GOD’S plan is not one of condemnation, but of redemption. HIS LOVE IS PATIENT. HIS GRACE IS GREATER THAN OUR FAILURES. AND JUST AS HE HAS SHOWN MERCY TO US, HE WILL SHOW MERCY TO THEM. GOD WILL FINISH WHAT HE HAS STARTED FOR HIS PROMISES WILL NEVER FAIL!

Is God finished with Israel? Absolutely not. His covenant still stands, and His promises remain.

Being grateful of what HE has done and will do soon! Colossians 1:9-14

Col 1:9-10, For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, AND TO ASK THAT YOU MAY BE FILLED WITH THE KNOWLEDGE OF HIS WILL IN ALL WISDOM AND SPIRITUAL UNDERSTANDING;  (10)  THAT YOU MAY WALK WORTHY OF THE LORD, FULLY PLEASING HIM, BEING FRUITFUL IN EVERY GOOD WORK AND INCREASING IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD;

For Paul, prayer wasn’t an occasional thing, but he was continuously lifting believers before the Father, asking that they be filled with the knowledge of God’s will. THIS WAS NOT MERE HEAD KNOWLEDGE, BUT A DEEP, SPIRIT‑SHAPED UNDERSTANDING THAT TRANSFORMS THE HEART AND GUIDES THE WALK.

Being fruitful in every good work ISN’T AN OCCASIONAL ACT OF SERVICE, but a consistent and steadfast way of life; knowing that we are just mere servants of the Most High.

Col 1:12-14, GIVING THANKS TO THE FATHER WHO HAS QUALIFIED US TO BE PARTAKERS OF THE INHERITANCE OF THE SAINTS IN THE LIGHT.  (13)  HE HAS DELIVERED US FROM THE POWER OF DARKNESS AND CONVEYED US INTO THE KINGDOM OF THE SON OF HIS LOVE, (14 ) IN WHOM WE HAVE REDEMPTION THROUGH HIS BLOOD, THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS. 

We have every reason to be thankful for the grace and mercy GOD has shown us. We didn’t deserve salvation, but through the suffering of our LORD, our sins were washed clean, and we were given a place in His inheritance. We must hold fast to this truth that HE rescued us from the darkness and the wickedness of this life, setting us free to live forever in the everlasting light of HIS presence.

The day is coming when HE will wipe away every tear. Death will be defeated, sickness will be gone, evil will be erased, and pain will be no more. It will said, “BEHOLD, THIS IS OUR GOD; WE HAVE WAITED FOR HIM, AND HE WILL SAVE US. THIS IS THE LORD; WE HAVE WAITED FOR HIM; WE WILL BE GLAD AND REJOICE IN HIS SALVATION”

Isa 25:8-9, He will swallow up death forever, And the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from all faces; The rebuke of His people He will take away from all the earth; For the LORD has spoken.  (9)  And it will be said in that day: “Behold, this is our God; We have waited for Him, and He will save us. This is the LORD; We have waited for Him; We will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.”

Rev 21:4  And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

Looking up!!!

Philippians 3, Rejoicing in the LORD!

Php 3:1-3, Finally, my brethren, REJOICE IN THE LORD. For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe.  (2)  Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilation!  (3)  FOR WE ARE THE CIRCUMCISION, WHO WORSHIP GOD IN THE SPIRIT, REJOICE IN CHRIST JESUS, AND HAVE NO CONFIDENCE IN THE FLESH,

Paul, writes to rejoice in the LORD while he himself is in prison, our joy doesn’t come from our circumstances, but in the reality of JESUS, and our future with HIM! Like Job, who lost all, his kids, his health and his wealth, yet can still rejoice in his future with the Redeemer!

Job 19:25-27  FOR I KNOW THAT MY REDEEMER LIVES, AND HE SHALL STAND AT LAST ON THE EARTH;  (26)  And after my skin is destroyed, THIS I KNOW, THAT IN MY FLESH I SHALL SEE GOD,  (27)  Whom I shall see for myself, And my eyes shall behold, and not another. HOW MY HEART YEARNS WITHIN ME!

Paul warns us to beware of dogs, evil workers, those who say you must be circumcised to be saved.  These people would say and do anything, even pervert the scriptures, to get their way!

The same men who were supposed to protect GOD’S Law and teach the Scriptures turned away from them. Their pride and fear blinded them, and they twisted GOD’S Word to make it seem right to condemn the very ONE the Scriptures promised. In trying to silence JESUS, THE RELIGIOUS LEADERS BROKE THE LAWS THEY CLAIMED TO FOLLOW, SHOWING THAT RELIGION WITHOUT TRUTH WILL ALWAYS GO AGAINST GOD’S HEART.

For we are the circumcision, not of the flesh but of the heart!

Col 2:11, In Him you were also circumcised WITH THE CIRCUMCISION MADE WITHOUT HANDS, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ,

Php 3:3-6 

Paul basically said, If anyone could boast in human credentials, it’s me. Not that he is boasting, but he is just setting up the following verses!

Php 3:7-8, But what things were gain to me, THESE I HAVE COUNTED LOSS FOR CHRIST.  (8)  Yet indeed I also count ALL THINGS LOSS FOR THE EXCELLENCE OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF CHRIST JESUS MY LORD, FOR WHOM I HAVE SUFFERED THE LOSS OF ALL THINGS, AND COUNT THEM AS RUBBISH, THAT I MAY GAIN CHRIST

Paul basically said, that all those things I used to think made me somebody? My background, my achievements, my reputation? I’ve come t see they’re NOTHING COMPARED TO JESUS.

Nothing in this world can compare to our Lord and Creator, Jesus. Every treasure, every achievement, every pleasure fades beside His glory. One day, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that He alone is Lord. Paul would later write.

Php 3:20-21  FOR OUR CITIZENSHIP IS IN HEAVEN, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ,  (21)  who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.

Remember this is not our home, so rejoice knowing that HE is near! Start looking up, for this wicked world is coming to an end and HE is at the door!

We are all guilty! Matthew 27.

What really stands out to me in Matthew 27 is how JESUS stayed completely in control. Though falsely accused and surrounded by hostility, HE remained composed, choosing silence over self-defense (Matthew 27:12, 14). HE was never out of control; HE knew exactly what was unfolding. From the beginning of time, HE understood that the cross was His destination. Why respond to accusations, when surrendering to the FATHER’s will was HIS purpose? This was the very reason HE entered HIS creation!

Isa 53:4-7, Surely He has borne our griefs And carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted.  (5)  But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.  (6)  All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way; And the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.  (7)  HE WAS OPPRESSED AND HE WAS AFFLICTED, YET HE OPENED NOT HIS MOUTH; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, AND AS A SHEEP BEFORE ITS SHEARERS IS SILENT, SO HE OPENED NOT HIS MOUTH.

Even Pilate knew HE was innocent; he knew that the Jewish leaders handing HIM over our of shear envy (Matt 27:18). Trying to free JESUS he gave the people a choice who to free, Barabbas a notorious prisoner, or JESUS, but they chose Barabbas?

Even Pilate recognized JESUS’ innocence. He saw through the motives of the religious leaders, knowing they had handed JESUS over out of envy (Matthew 27:18). Hoping to release HIM, Pilate offered the crowd a choice: JESUS, the CHRIST (verse 22) or Barabbas, a notorious criminal (verse 16). Yet the people chose Barabbas. It was hard for Pilate to believe, so he tried to wash his hands from the situation!

Mat 27:24, When Pilate saw that he could not prevail at all, but rather that a tumult was rising, HE TOOK WATER AND WASHED HIS HANDS BEFORE THE MULTITUDE, SAYING, “I AM INNOCENT OF THE BLOOD OF THIS JUST PERSON. YOU SEE TO IT.“

Truly, who among us can claim innocence concerning this righteous man’s blood? The cross wasn’t merely the result of one generation’s failure, but it was the failure of every generation!  We are all guilty in the sight of GOD (Rom 3:23). We may not have stood in that crowd, shouting “Crucify Him!” Yet every sin we commit places us in that moment of time, echoing the same words “Crucify HIM”!

Dan 9:26, “And after the sixty-two weeks Messiah shall be cut off, BUT NOT FOR HIMSELF;

Without JESUS, we don’t stand a chance. We can’t fix ourselves, we can’t earn our way, or carry the weight of our own sin. HE’s the only one who can get us through.

Joh 14:6, JESUS SAID TO HIM, “I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE. NO ONE COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT THROUGH ME.

IN NO WAY ARE WE INNOCENT, BUT IN HIM WE ARE FORGIVEN.

Joh 3:16-17, FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, THAT WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM SHOULD NOT PERISH BUT HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE.  (17)  FOR GOD DID NOT SEND HIS SON INTO THE WORLD TO CONDEMN THE WORLD, BUT THAT THE WORLD THROUGH HIM MIGHT BE SAVED.

The Storms in life! Matthew 26:36-46

JESUS and HIS disciples went out to Gethsemane, and JESUS wanted to pray for HE knew what was about to happen! JESUS told them..

Mat 26:38-39, He told them, “MY SOUL IS CRUSHED WITH GRIEF TO THE POINT OF DEATH. STAY HERE AND KEEP WATCH WITH ME.”  (39)  HE WENT ON A LITTLE FARTHER AND BOWED WITH HIS FACE TO THE GROUND, PRAYING, “MY FATHER! IF IT IS POSSIBLE, LET THIS CUP OF SUFFERING BE TAKEN AWAY FROM ME. YET I WANT YOUR WILL TO BE DONE, NOT MINE.”

HE was fully man and fully GOD, but at this point, HE shows HIS humanity, HIS Anguish, and HIS vulnerability knowing HIS impending suffering! Faith doesn’t mean life will be easy or storm free.

It means we’ll have the strength to face whatever comes, knowing we’re not alone!

Mat 26:39  He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “MY FATHER! IF IT IS POSSIBLE, LET THIS CUP OF SUFFERING BE TAKEN AWAY FROM ME. YET I WANT YOUR WILL TO BE DONE, NOT MINE.”

As a son comes to his father for help, we need to come to our heavenly FATHER for help! It’s not weakness but wisdom knowing that HE can do anything and with HIM nothing is impossible!

Heb 4:16, SO LET US COME BOLDLY TO THE THRONE OF OUR GRACIOUS GOD. THERE WE WILL RECEIVE HIS MERCY, AND WE WILL FIND GRACE TO HELP US WHEN WE NEED IT MOST.

Isa 40:31, But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.

Mat 26:42, Then Jesus left them a second time and prayed, “MY FATHER IF THIS CUP CANNOT BE TAKEN AWAY UNLESS I DRINK IT, YOUR WILL BE DONE.”!

Even in HIS agony, HE shows perfect surrender; “YOUR WILL BE DONE”!

Storms will come; there’s no way around that.  But when they do, we need to hold on to God, Like Jacob did in Genesis 32:26, trusting that He sees what we can’t.  He knows what’s best for us, even when everything feels upside down.  It may not be easy, but with HIM at our side we can conquer any storm that comes our way! Trust in the LORD for HIS mercy endures forever!

Who is your LORD? Matthew 26:14-15

Mat 26:14-15  Then one of the twelve, called JUDAS ISCARIOT, went to the chief priests  (15)  and said, “WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO GIVE ME IF I DELIVER HIM TO YOU?” And they counted out to him thirty pieces of silver.

Judas comment reveals more about himself that anything else; WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO GIVE ME IF I DELIVER HIM TO YOU. It reveals a heart driven by gain rather than devotion. Compare him to Mary of Bethany, in Matt 26:6-7 or John 12:3-5, who gave her costly fragrant oil to anoint JESUS!  

Ecc 5:10 NLT, Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness!

Judas walked with JESUS for three years, was witness to HIS wisdom and grace. He also witness many people being healed, and storms silenced, yet he called HIM Rabbi rather than LORD!

Psa 119:33-37, Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes, And I shall keep it to the end.  (34)  Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law; Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart.  (35)  Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, For I delight in it.  (36)  INCLINE MY HEART TO YOUR TESTIMONIES, AND NOT TO COVETOUSNESS.  (37)  TURN AWAY MY EYES FROM LOOKING AT WORTHLESS THINGS, AND REVIVE ME IN YOUR WAY.

The Parable of the talents! Matthew 25:14-30

Mat 25:14, “FOR THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS LIKE A MAN TRAVELING TO A FAR COUNTRY, WHO CALLED HIS OWN SERVANTS AND DELIVERED HIS GOODS TO THEM.  

It’s the same man found in Matthew 21:33 or Luke 19:12

The man is GOD!

Mat 25:15-18,  And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey.  (16)  Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents.  (17)  And likewise he who had received two gained two more also.  (18)  But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord’s money.

This isn’t about material wealth, it’s about divine responsibility. GOD has entrusted each and every one of us with certain gifts that HE expects us to use for HIS kingdom!  HE expects us to invest what HE has given us to the best of our abilities! Everything we have is given to us by HIM; even David wrote this in..

1Ch 29:14, But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly as this? FOR ALL THINGS COME FROM YOU, AND OF YOUR OWN WE HAVE GIVEN YOU.

Our finances, our abilities, our knowledge even our understanding is given to us by GOD HIMSELF; not for our glorification but HIS!  There are many people with amazing talents that will never be seen because they’re focused on themselves instead of serving God. Some don’t want to serve, others say they don’t have time. Either way, they’re living like their gifts don’t come with a responsibility TO THE ONE WHO GAVE THEM.

Mat 25:19, AFTER A LONG TIME THE LORD OF THOSE SERVANTS CAME AND SETTLED ACCOUNTS WITH THEM.

When HE returns, each of us will give an account of our lives before HIM. Every word spoken, every deed, whether good or bad will be brought to light. What did we do for His kingdom? What was done with the gifts He entrusted to us? He will come to settle the account. And for those who truly believe, there will be gain, or loss of the rewards He had prepared for us.

Rom 14:12, So then each of us shall give account of himself to God.

Mat 12:36-37, But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.  (37)  FOR BY YOUR WORDS YOU WILL BE JUSTIFIED, AND BY YOUR WORDS YOU WILL BE CONDEMNED.”

Will HE say, “WELL DONE MY GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT”, OR just smile at you because you have no rewards?

Mat 25:28-30  So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.  (29)  ‘For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.  (30)  And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

The third servant proved he wasn’t truly devoted to his master; he was lazy and had no real loyalty. His actions showed where his heart truly was. SO IT MAKES SENSE THAT HE, ALONG WITH ANYONE WHO SHOWS THAT SAME ATTITUDE, WAS CAST OUT OF THE MASTER’S PRESENCE FOR GOOD.

The most fearsome words found in scripture will come from our LORD! “I NEVER KNEW YOU; DEPART FROM ME”.

Mat 7:22-23  Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’  (23)  AND THEN I WILL DECLARE TO THEM, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’

The wise and the foolish virgins! Matthew 25:1-13.

Mat 25:1-4, “Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom.  (2)  NOW FIVE OF THEM WERE WISE, AND FIVE WERE FOOLISH.  (3)  Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them,  (4)  BUT THE WISE TOOK OIL IN THEIR VESSELS WITH THEIR LAMPS.

The ten virgins know about the Bridegroom (JESUS) they know that HE is about to come, but half of them were wise and took more oil for their lamp just in case HE, the Bridegroom, would be delayed for some reason! 

All ten were believers noted by their lamps; Psalm 119:105, YOUR WORD IS A LAMP to my feet And a light to my path. Yet without oil the lamp is dead! Oil is symbolic of a inner spiritual life of faith, where the HOLY SPIRIT dwells; It represents a personal devotion to HIS word that keeps the light shinning on HIS path!

Wise Virgins: Took extra oil, showing foresight, spiritual depth, and readiness. THEY REPRESENT THOSE WHO LIVE IN CONTINUAL PREPARATION FOR CHRIST’S RETURN.

Foolish Virgins: Took no extra oil, symbolizing SUPERFICIAL FAITH OR NEGLECT OF SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE. THEY WERE UNPREPARED WHEN THE MOMENT CAME.

The Bridegroom represents the coming of the LORD JESUS! Back in Chapter 9 the Pharisees as a question to JESUS!

Mat 9:14-15  Then the disciples of John came to Him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but YOUR DISCIPLES do not fast?”  (15)  And Jesus said to them, “CAN THE FRIENDS OF THE BRIDEGROOM MOURN AS LONG AS THE BRIDEGROOM IS WITH THEM? BUT THE DAYS WILL COME WHEN THE BRIDEGROOM WILL BE TAKEN AWAY FROM THEM, AND THEN THEY WILL FAST.

JESUS HIMSELF identifies that HE is the Bridegroom, and we await HIS Second Coming!

Mat 25:5-9, But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept.  (6)  “And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘BEHOLD, THE BRIDEGROOM IS COMING; GO OUT TO MEET HIM!’  (7)  Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps.  (8)  AND THE FOOLISH SAID TO THE WISE, ‘GIVE US SOME OF YOUR OIL, FOR OUR LAMPS ARE GOING OUT.’  (9)  BUT THE WISE ANSWERED, SAYING, ‘NO, LEST THERE SHOULD NOT BE ENOUGH FOR US AND YOU; BUT GO RATHER TO THOSE WHO SELL, AND BUY FOR YOURSELVES.’

They heard the Trumpet and readied themselves, yet the foolish were un-prepared and asked for some oil for their lamps!  BUT, YOU CAN’T BORROW SOMEONE ELSE’S FAITH. EVERYONE HAS TO BUILD THEIR OWN RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD AND BE READY FOR THEMSELVES.  The time  to prepare is now, not waiting for until you feel ready, WHEN THE CRY COMES, IT WILL BE TOO LATE TO GATHER OIL.

Mat 25:10-13  AND WHILE THEY WENT TO BUY, THE BRIDEGROOM CAME, AND THOSE WHO WERE READY WENT IN WITH HIM TO THE WEDDING; AND THE DOOR WAS SHUT.  (11)  “Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’  (12)  But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I SAY TO YOU, I DO NOT KNOW YOU.’  (13)  “WATCH THEREFORE, FOR YOU KNOW NEITHER THE DAY NOR THE HOUR IN WHICH THE SON OF MAN IS COMING.

BE PREPARED, HE IS COMING! IN A BLINK OF AN EYE HE WILL TAKE THOSE THAT ARE PREPARED FOR HIM!  ARE YOU READY?

BE READY! Matthew 24:36-39

Mat 24:36, “BUT OF THAT DAY AND HOUR NO ONE KNOWS, NOT EVEN THE ANGELS OF HEAVEN, BUT MY FATHER ONLY.

JESUS is answering the first question asked by HIS disciples in Matt 24:3 “TELL US, WHEN WILL THESE THINGS BE”?

This verse invites us TO TRUST RATHER THAN TO TIME. It’s not about trying to figure out when, but it’s about CULTIVATING A HEART THAT’S READY AT ALL TIMES, HUMBLE, AND WATCHFUL.  If Jesus had told us the exact day He was coming back, people might only start following Him when the deadline got close. But HE didn’t give us a date on purpose because HE wants us to be real in our faith, not just rushing to “get right” at the last minute. Knowing the exact time would make many people lazy with their hearts, thinking they could wait to change. Instead, HE’S CALLING US TO LIVE READY EVERY DAY; TO CHOOSE HIM, NOT BECAUSE WE’RE SCARED OF A DEADLINE, BUT BECAUSE WE LOVE HIM.

I believe that JESUS, at least in HIS earthly ministry, suppressed that information to honor the will of HIS FATHER in humility and obedience.  It was not HIS role to know, but to receive HIS bride!

As Abraham (the FATHER) sent his unnamed servant (the HOLY SPIRIT) to find a wife for his son Issac (JESUS) in Genesis 24; in the same way the HOLY SPIRIT is gathering the bride to bring her to HIM, JESUS! A BRIDE WHO HAS MADE HERSELF READY FOR THE DAY SHE MEETS THE BRIDEGROOM; NOT RUSHING IN THE LAST MINUTES TO GATHER OIL FOR HER LAMP! (Matthew 25:1-13).

Mat 25:11-13  “Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’  (12)  But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I DO NOT KNOW YOU.’  (13)  “WATCH THEREFORE, FOR YOU KNOW NEITHER THE DAY NOR THE HOUR IN WHICH THE SON OF MAN IS COMING.

We must be ready for HIS coming is near!

Mat 24:37-39, BUT AS THE DAYS OF NOAH WERE, SO ALSO WILL THE COMING OF THE SON OF MAN BE.  (38)  For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, UNTIL THE DAY THAT NOAH ENTERED THE ARK,  (39)  and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.

Back in Noah’s time, the world was filled with evil. People were focused only on themselves, on what they wanted to eat, drink, and who they were going to marry. They had no time or care for the things of GOD or what was right. They were living like nothing bad could ever happen, ignoring the warnings and signs all around them. Noah was different. He listened to God, even when everyone else thought he was crazy.

AND WHILE THE REST OF THE WORLD KEPT PARTYING AND PLANNING THEIR LIVES, THE FLOOD CAME AND THEY WEREN’T READY.

Are you ready? Start looking up for HE is near!!

The 9th of Av.  Matthew 24:1-2

Mat 24:1-2  Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple.  (2)  And Jesus said to them, “DO YOU NOT SEE ALL THESE THINGS? ASSUREDLY, I SAY TO YOU, NOT ONE STONE SHALL BE LEFT HERE UPON ANOTHER, THAT SHALL NOT BE THROWN DOWN.”

As JESUS and HIS disciples were sitting on the mount of Olives across the way to the Jewish temple, JESUS said that the temple would be torn down. And some 40 years later, on the 9th of AV, this temple was thrown down just as JESUS said it would be!  Also mention by the prophet Daniel..

Dan 9:26  “AND AFTER THE SIXTY-TWO WEEKS MESSIAH SHALL BE CUT OFF, BUT NOT FOR HIMSELF; And the people of the prince who is to come SHALL DESTROY THE CITY AND THE SANCTUARY. The end of it shall be with a flood, And till the end of the war desolations are determined.

This is fact happened in the year of 70 A.D. when the city and the sanctuary (the Temple) were destroyed. The Roman army swept through Jerusalem, demolishing the Temple and tragically killing over a million Jews, according to the historian Josephus!

What I find remarkable is that the Second Temple was destroyed on the same day as the First Temple—the 9th of Av. ; WHICH COINCIDENTLY STARTS THIS SATURDAY NIGHT AUGUST 2ND @ 6PM.  And END SUNDAY @6PM 2025.