Effie Darlene Barba ⋆ Page 2 of 377 ⋆ Inspiring Joy in Lifes Toughest Moments

Do You Know the Servant King Jesus Can Revive a Floundering Heart?

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God … even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give His life a ransom for many.” Mark 1:1 and 10:45 NASB

This truly depicts the Gospel of Mark. And no wonder. For Mark fully knew the truth that the Servant King Jesus can revive a floundering heart. Such was his heart at times. And such was that of his mentor, Peter. Well, and truth be known, all the apostles and disciples of Jesus had floundering hearts.

The gospel of Mark is believed by nearly all scholars to have been written by John Mark who was closely associated with Peter. Peter died in Rome around 54 A.D. and the gospel of Mark was written sometime before the destruction of the temple . Therefore, most believe it was written around 60 AD. A few ascribe earlier dates. That means it was written either near the death of Peter or shortly thereafter. It is known John Mark was in Rome assisting Peter in his final ministry. He had also been with him before this on various occasions. Furthermore, he kept notes. Then with the guidance of the Holy Spirit he was able to write this gospel from the firsthand accounts of Peter and his sermons.

Who was Mark?

Mark was the son of a very wealthy family in Jerusalem with a large house, where the disciples went at times. It is believed that it may have been his house where the last supper was held. If so, perhaps that would have explained why he included the story of the young man following Jesus who dropped his cloak and ran away naked.

The following is my own conjecture. But indeed, if his house was where the last supper was held, perhaps Judas took the crowd there first. John Mark may have then followed them to the Garden of Gethsemane. After all Jesus had gone to the garden other times to rest and pray. At least an intriguing thought for curious minds. I must ask him one day.

The Gospel of Mark

Mark wrote this gospel with the gentile believers in mind and particularly the roman people in his time. He wanted to show that Jesus was indeed the Son of God.

“Mark selected critical episodes and interactions from Jesus’ ministry and often arranged them in thematic order to show that Jesus is ‘the Son of God’ (1:1). The status is validated through Jesus’ breathtaking power over all of his creation. He is powerful over the wind and waves, the demonic kingdom, and even sickness and death. For Mark, there was no denying thew fact that these miracles prove Jesus is who He says He is and that all people owe Him their allegiance.”¹

The Servant King Jesus Can Revive a Floundering Heart of Confusion

The Gospel of Mark is fast paced, action packed and presents the apostles as they truly are. How often were they the bumbling, floundering hearts that Jesus had to correct and revive. Even after all the miracles they had seen and all the teaching he had given them, they were a bit slow in understanding as well.

And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?” (Thus he declared all foods clean.) And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.” Mark 7:17-23 (ESV)

He may have rebuked them at times for their slowness in learning, but always He explained gently continued teaching the truth to them.

Jesus Can Revive a Floundering Heart of Failure

John Mark knew well the taste of failure. He had a floundering heart when he went on his first missionary journey with Paul as recorded in the book of Acts. But we do know, he was restored in his ministry. Later, nearing the end of Paul’s life, from prison, he wrote of Mark.

Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry. 2 Timothy 4:11.

Or Peter, who was one minute elevated and the next failed.

He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”

Peter answered and said to Him, “You are the Christ.” Mark 8:29-30 NKJV

Only immediately after that did he fail.

(Jesus) began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. He spoke this word openly. Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him. But when He had turned around and looked at His disciples, He rebuked Peter, saying, “Get behind Me, Satan! For you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.” Mark 8:31-33 (NKJV)

Jesus Can Revive a Floundering Heart of Fear

On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, “Let us cross over to the other side.” Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him. And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” Mark 4:35-38 NKJV

Jesus calmed the storm and what did they do?

Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” And they feared exceedingly, and said to one another, “Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!” Mark 4:39-41 (NKJV)

Most likely we would have done the same thing. He fixes the problem and we then become afraid of His power and presence.

The Servant King Jesus Does Not Give Up In Teaching His Followers

when evening came, the boat was out on the sea, and he was alone on the land. He saw that they were making headway painfully, for the wind was against them. And about the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them, but when they saw him walking on the sea they thought it was a ghost, and cried out Mark 6:47-49 (ESV)

And so they panicked again in a storm.

for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And he got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded, for they did not understand about the loaves, but their hearts were hardened. Mark 6:50-52 (ESV)

So, sometimes we have to repeat the same storm again and again until we finally understand He is Sovereign and I do not need to be afraid of anything.

What about the loaves? Oh, yes, both times they had just witnessed the miracle of the feeding of the 5000 and again the feeding of 4000 and still worried about food. Often, in the text was written, “and we had no food.”

The Servant King Jesus Can Revive the Floundering Heart of Unbelief

And when He came to the disciples, He saw a great multitude around them, and scribes disputing with them. Immediately, when they saw Him, all the people were greatly amazed, and running to Him, greeted Him. Mark 9:14-15 NKJV

So, there was a big commotion going on.

And He asked the scribes, “What are you discussing with them? ”Then one of the crowd answered and said, “Teacher, I brought You my son, who has a mute spirit. And wherever it seizes him, it throws him down; he foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth, and becomes rigid. So I spoke to Your disciples, that they should cast it out, but they could not.” Mark 9:16-18 NKJV

So, why do you think they could not perform this?

19 He answered him and said, “O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I bear with you? Bring him to Me.” Mark 9:19 NKJV

This boy had convulsions since childhood and often harmed himself by falling into fires or lakes. So his father pleaded

But if You can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.”Jesus said to him, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes. ”Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” Mark 9:22-24 NKJV

And So Jesus Healed Him by Reviving a Floundering Heart

When Jesus saw that the people came running together, He rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “Deaf and dumb spirit, I command you, come out of him and enter him no more!” Then the spirit cried out, convulsed him greatly, and came out of him. And he became as one dead, so that many said, “He is dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. Mark 9:25-27 (NKJV)

So, bewildered, the disciples waited until later to ask.

And when He had come into the house, His disciples asked Him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” So He said to them, “This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting.” Mark 9:28-29 NKJV

We sometimes must ask that our faith be strengthened. At other times we must stretch our faith through prayer and fasting. Getting alone with God, allows the Holy Spirit to do this work in us. When we separate ourselves to Bible Study, Prayer and Fasting we surrender ourselves to the Holy Spirit. Then, our desire and our prayers also begin to align with the will of God, as our hearts are transformed to understand. That is when faith grows to its maximum.

The Servant King Jesus Can Revive the Floundering Heart of Despair

Jesus told them at least 3 times, exactly what was going to happen. He was going to die, be buried and rise again. Also, He taught them of the coming trials and tribulations, attempting to prepare them for how hard it would be on this earth. Gently He told them all of this. He told them He would send a comforter to help them. For three years, He prepared them. This was part of why He was always saying, “Do not tell anyone of these miracles.” He needed time to teach and prepare them. This is why it is so important we study eschatology (the prophecies yet to come). When we know disaster is coming, we can be prepared.

Just like with Hurricane Milton, the Governor prepared the people and the agencies needed to reduce the risk. Sadly, some did perish anyway. Unfortunately, North Carolina did not receive a warning in time as the path was not clearly delineated for them. The lack of knowledge was devastating. The same can be true for us today. We must study to be prepared for all that is coming.

Furthermore, Jesus told them He would rise again, and He did. It is that power which can break through our hearts of despair. Hope is knowing we can trust Him through it all.

And what is the proof that Jesus Did revive the floundering heart of each of his disciples?

So then, after the Lord had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen. Mark 16: 19-20 (NKJV)

He took these men who were filled with fear, doubt, despair and failures turning them into warriors willing to die to spread the gospel of Christ to the world. What about you and I? What are you willing to endure for the gospel of Christ?

Another Important point about the Gospel of Mark

Mark spoke with urgency. Perhaps this is because he had seen so much of persecution. He believed that Jesus return and the final judgement could be any moment. His most used phrase was “immediately.” This pressed the urgency of it all.

“Mark invites his readers to hear and respond to the invitation offered by the Son of God. Since Jesus is God, his words are the word of God. This message is good news for those who have ears to hear the gracious call of God through Jesus.”²

We, who know Him, should also feel the urgency to go out and declare the name of Jesus to the world.

¹ The Jesus Bible, ESV version, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, MI, 2019, page 1528

² The Jesus BIble, page 1528

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Do You Really Know Jesus and Delight in the Kingdom of Heaven?

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2024

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Do You Really Know Jesus and Delight in the Kingdom of Heaven?

Give ear, O my people, to my law;
Incline your ears to the words of my mouth.
I will open my mouth in a parable;
I will utter dark sayings of old,
Which we have heard and known,
And our fathers have told us.
Psalm 78:1-3 (NKJV)

As we begin the New Testament, we study this week from the gospel of Matthew. To do so, we will first look at the focus of Matthew’s gospel and his intended audience. He explains the mystery of the Kingdom of heaven, specifically the church age. Furthermore, as we come to the parables of the Kingdom found in Matthew 13, we are given the truth of the gospel. Therein is a glimpse into this mystery and statements as to the mystery of the absolute security of salvation. Therefore, my prayer is that by the time we complete this lesson, you will be certain of the truth of the kingdom and how to know with certainty that you are saved.

He moves then to explain the blindness of the people who will never see as they desire the darkness, their faith is superficial, or they are too concerned with the things of this world. What were they to know and what is the mystery shared with those who have ears to hear and eyes to see.

without controversy great is the mystery of godliness:

Godwas manifested in the flesh,
Justified in the Spirit,
Seen by angels,
Preached among the Gentiles,
Believed on in the world,
Received up in glory. I Timothy 3:16 (NKJV)

The King of the Kingdom Arrived on Earth

Matthew presented Jesus as the King. This he did very masterfully. He began in chapter 1 presenting the genealogy of Jesus Christ from Abraham to Joseph his stepfather. He was in the perfect line of King David, just as God had foretold. Furthermore, Mary was in the line of David. Yet, as God also said, the line of Jeconias, the son of Josiah, was corrupted. Therefore it would have appeared God was the Father of Jesus. However, Jesus was the “Son of David” with the right as the King of all the people of Israel through Joseph without Himself being in the direct bloodline of Jeconias. (God always has a plan though the devil tries to thwart the plan of God. He legitimately could and will set up the final Kingdom. This is meticulously laid out by Matthew.

So, all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations. Matthew 1:17 KJV

Then in Matthew 2, we are presented with the Wise Men who after years of study came to bow before the newborn King. They had concluded that He was King for they had seen the star. In their travel to the newborn King, they stopped in Jerusalem to inquire as to where he was to have been born according to scripture. The wise men in the court of King Herod told them Bethlehem. Furthermore, after they visited the baby, Joseph fled to Egypt to protect Jesus as he was warned Herod sought His death. That also fulfilled scripture regarding Jesus as King being drawn out of Egypt.

Further Proof of Jesus as King

The Old Testaments profits and foretold of a Messenger (a prophet) Coming to announce the King.

In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Matthew 3: 1-3

Furthermore, when Jesus came to John the Baptist, we are told.

Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Matthew 3:13-17

After this, Jesus was led into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan; however, He did not succumb to any of the temptations presented Him. This also proof of His Kingship. Then He began to call his apostles, starting His ministry, preaching the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 4:17.

What did He mean the Kingdom of Heaven at Hand?

Throughout His ministry, He taught repentance for the kingdom of heaven is at hand, just as John the Baptist had taught. Could He have established the Kingdom they wanted Him to? He could do anything He wanted, but there was this key element. They had not come to a point of repentance; nor true worship which would be necessary for the Kingdom of Heaven to come to earth. Many came only because they wanted what they believed He could give them, but did not want to worship Him. Indeed many followers are just that. The Old Testament had been clear that without the shedding of blood there was no remission for sin. Isaiah had clearly foretold of the suffering servant who would shed His blood in their place. The innocent for the guilty.

Yet, His ministry would be rejected by the elite of Israel and their judges. He would be rejected by the majority. It was not time for His Kingdom on Earth to be established.

Therefore, the final Kingdom would have to be delayed until some future date. That will be when Jesus returns to earth in the second coming to set up His Kingdom. At that time all of Israel will have come to repentance and accept Him. However, in the interim is set up the church age, often referred to as the mystery of the kingdom. This would be the time span we are in until all is ready for the rapture, followed by the final cleansing of Israel. That final cleansing will occur through the tribulation when finally, the people will come to worship Him. They would grieve over Christ who was pierced for their sin (Zechariah 12:10) God never forsook His chosen people and will fulfill all He has promised. Their day will come.

Proving His Kingship through teaching and miracles

Matthew 5 through 7 Jesus preaches with knowledge and authority beyond that which could be earthly. Herein, He teaches with such authority that only the Son of God could. He was obviously the King of Kings, the awaited Messiah. Then there were the miracles outlined in Matthew 8-10.

Despite all this, Jesus was rejected by the majority and by the leaders of the synagogue. Jesus rebuked the cities for their disbelief. As Matthew pointed out–Jesus is the King, the long awaited Messiah. However, they did not believe. Even after He resurrected from the dead, they paid the soldiers to lie. That is how hardened was their hearts. Seeing they could not see, hearing they could not hear

Then He began to reprimand the cities in which most of His miracles were done, because they did not repent. “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that occurred in you had occurred in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in [s]sackcloth and ashes. Nevertheless I say to you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. And you, Capernaum, will not be exalted to heaven, will you? You will be brought down to Hades! For if the miracles that occurred in you had occurred in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. Nevertheless I say to you that it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment, than for you.” Matthew 11:20-24 (NASB).

Ah, but to all those who believe is the Kingdom of heaven given

At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. Matthew 11: 25-27 KJV

To Them He Calls Forth

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11: 28-30 KJV

Thus we move forward to where Jesus reveals the kingdom of heaven to those who have eyes to see and ears to hear. Not before He is fully rejected by the Pharisees, the Sadducees, and even His own family call Him crazy. This leads us forward to chapter 13 where He begins to preach in parables. I want to concentrate much of the remaining teaching to the parable of the sower. All of the above study was merely an introduction to give context and meaning to what we must focus on now.

The Kingdom of Heaven Taught Through Parables

The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore. Matthew 13: 1-2 KJV

There was a huge crowd that gathered. Some came to listen with skepticism knowing they would not believe, some came seeking miracles from Jesus, many came bringing all their own trials and desires to which they clung tightly, and a few came completely void of themselves wanting to surrender all to follow Him.

And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. Matthew 13 3-9 KJV

So, why teach the kingdom of heaven in parables?

That is the same question asked by the disciples

And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables? He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath. Matthew 13:10 –12 KJV

They really did not understand either. However once the crowd seeking other things dispersed, He would teach those who really were seeking Him. Others would leave annoyed. Some came for a miracle and got a story instead. Others came and wanted to be a part of the crowd thing, very excited but also left when He gave them stories instead. Some were just annoyed or bothered by the story telling. It is a way to weed out the crowd to those who really wanted to know the truth and know Jesus.

A further explanation:

Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias (Isaiah), which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them. Matthew 13:13-15

These are those whose hearts are already hardened because they choose not to see the things of God. God lets them continue in their hardness.

Like Romans 1 Says.

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, Romans 1:18-22 KJV

In their own prideful self-deceit, they chose not to seek any truth apart from themselves. Meanwhile, His true disciples knew they were sinners in need of a Savior. Truth could only be found following the master so to them, He said.

But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them. Matthew 13: 16-17

So What Does the Parable of the Sower really mean? Jesus Explains

In Mark 4:13, Jesus explains that the what the sower is sowing is the Word of God, the truth. Remember Jesus is the Word. So what the seed that the sower sows is the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. All the soils are that soil; but some are hardened and impenetrable unless tilled. Some are nice and soft on top but with a layer of rock beneath which would need to be chipped away before usable. While others may be filled with thorns and weeds which have not been properly removed before the seed falls on it.

When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. Matthew 13:19 KJV

This is the seed that fell on hard ground. A heart so hardened and embittered against God that no seed can penetrate that heart. Immediately as the Word is sent out, it is snatched away by lies. For those individuals we may pray God till their heart.

What About Those Who Seem to Start to follow?

But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended. Matthew 19:20-21 KJV

This is the one who with great emotion and joy proclaim a desire to be saved. They may even run to be baptized and join the church. By all outward appearances, they are saved. However, there is no root. This is like the branch grafted into the vine but has no spirit or nutrients flowing through it from the vine. When things do not happen as they so desired, they are gone. If that job or relationship fails, well, they are out of here.

Another example that appear to be saved; but are not is the own sown among thorns.

He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. Matthew 19:22

A good example of this may be the one who grew up in the church. By all counts they proclaim that they are Christian. On the outside all looked good, until they left for college or began a career. Maybe it was they fell in love and were drawn away by another to deny Christ. Perhaps, life just did not go as planned, so they walked away. There was never any firm foundation in Jesus Christ. They played the part well until they did not. Then their true heart showed itself. A heart devoid of Jesus Christ, never really surrendered.

The True Christ Follower—guaranteed the Kingdom of Heaven

But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. Matthew 13: 23 KJV

Did not Jesus Say?

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. John 15:1-2 KJV

So, How Do I know If I am a believer?

Knowing I am incapable of my own righteousness, I surrender life and soul to Jesus

I will bear fruit—it may be less or more at times, but there will be some sign of fruit. And what is the fruit of the spirit? Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, and temperance (Galatians 5:22-23)

Is there any sign of growth? Do I long to know Him more today than yesterday?

Can I answer honestly as did the Apostles when asked if they too would walk away?

Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. John 6: 67-69 (KJV)

Conclusions

I guess the final question is? Do you know Him as Lord and Savior? Have you ever truly surrendered your heart to Him? If not. It is not too late. Today is the day of salvation. Turn to Him before your eyes are too blind to see or your heart to hardened to ever bow to Him.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Zero Doubt God Will Accomplish All He Has Proclaimed. His Word is Truth

How Amazing God Draws a Straight Line with Crooked Pencils

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2024

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Picture licensed from Goodsalt.com

Zero Doubt God Will Accomplish All He Has Proclaimed. His Word is Truth

“Now behold, today I am going the way of all the earth, and you know in all your hearts and in all your souls that not one word of all the good words which the Lord your God spoke concerning you has failed; they all have been fulfilled for you, not one of them has failed. But it will come about that just as all the good words which the Lord your God spoke to you have come upon you, so the Lord will bring upon you all the warnings, until He has eliminated you from this good land which the Lord your God has given you. When you violate the covenant of the Lord your God, which He commanded you, and you go and serve other gods and bow down to them, then the anger of the Lord will burn against you, and you will perish quickly from the good land which He has given you.” Joshua 24:14-16 (NASB)

Joshua witnessed the faithfulness of God throughout his lifetime. As a young man, he accompanied Moses . As his servant, he waited at the foot of the mountain as God spoke and wrote to Moses. He heard God’s word and knew His word is truth. God never breaks His promises, and He never changes. For that reason, Joshua had zero doubt God will accomplish all He has proclaimed. Today, we come to the end of the Old Testament in our study. My hope is that you also hold this truth firm in your own heart. As He was yesterday, so is He today. And forever He will be the same.

The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever. Isaiah 40: 8 NASB

But When Will Justice Reign?

Sometimes, we, like the people of Judah, wonder how long? We become complacent with our lives. We tend to believe “Sure He is coming, but not yet. I have plenty of time. It may not be even in my lifetime.” We think that even when the truth is staring us in the face. We are nearing the evening, and the midnight hour approaches rapidly. In Ezekiel’s day the people had watched Israel fall. The first group of exiles were taken with Daniel. Ezekiel was within the second group. Yet, the people did not believe God would ever allow Jerusalem to fall to the Babylonians. He believed that regardless of how much they themselves sinned. God would protect them. But then Ezekiel spoke.

Furthermore, the word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Son of man, behold, the house of Israel is saying, ‘The vision that he sees is for many years from now, and he prophesies of times far off.’ Therefore, say to them, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “None of My words will be delayed any longer. Whatever word I speak will be performed,” declares the Lord God. Ezekiel 12:26-28 (NASB)

Do you hear His voice today? And if we do hear His voice, do we fully understand what “the year of the Lord” means? Oh, yes, for those of us who know Christ we look for justice with joyous anticipation We know we are covered by the blood of Christ. Therefore no fear. However, we must remember were it not for grace, what that justice would mean for you and I as well. Are we not to be filled a deep sorrow for those who are so blinded and lost? This sorrow sprinkled with the anticipatory joy of seeing our Savior face to face?

Zero doubt God will Accomplish All He has planned

All the way back to Isaiah 41, God said He would raise up Cyrus to lead a great nation. And in Jeremiah 25 He said.

‘Then it will be when seventy years are completed, I will punish the king of Babylon and that nation,’ declares the Lord, ‘for their wrongdoing, and the land of the Chaldeans; and I will make it an everlasting desolation. I will bring upon that land all My words which I have pronounced against it, all that is written in this book which Jeremiah has prophesied against all the nations. (For many nations and great kings will make slaves of them, even them; and I will repay them according to their deeds and according to the work of their hands.)’” Jeremiah 25: 12-14 (NASB).

And then it happened just as God said through Isaiah and Jeremiah.

Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the Lord by the mouth of Jeremiah, the Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, so that he sent a proclamation throughout his kingdom, and also put it in writing, saying:

“This is what Cyrus king of Persia says: ‘The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and He has appointed me to rebuild for Him a house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Whoever there is among you of all His people, may his God be with him! Go up to Jerusalem which is in Judah and rebuild the house of the Lord, the God of Israel; He is the God who is in Jerusalem. EZRA 1:1-3 (NASB)

Leaving Zero Doubt God will Accomplish all He has planned. His Word is Truth

Now when the builders had laid the foundation of the temple of the Lord, the priests stood in their apparel with trumpets, and the Levites, the sons of Asaph, with cymbals, to praise the Lord according to the directions of King David of Israel. And they sang, praising and giving thanks to the Lord, saying, “For He is good, for His favor is upon Israel forever.” EZRA 3:10-11 (NASB)

Many people of the surrounding land wrote to King Darius asking him to stop the building of the temple. They also wrote years later to King Aheuresis (Xerxes) and then Artaxerxes suggesting that the Israelites needed to stop all building in Jerusalem. You see, there will always be opposition, but we must hold fast with faith, knowing God has a perfect plan. Nothing and no one can thwart His plan. Ultimately, this is the letter sent back to the opposition from the King of Persia.

Zero Doubt God Will Accomplish All He Proclaims-regardless of opposition

Leave that work on the house of God alone; let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews rebuild that house of God on its site. Furthermore, I issue a decree concerning what you are to do for these elders of Judah in the rebuilding of that house of God: the full cost is to be paid to those people from the royal treasury out of the taxes of the provinces beyond the Euphrates River, and that without interruption.

And whatever is needed, bulls, rams, and lambs for burnt offerings to the God of heaven, and wheat, salt, wine, and anointing oil, as the priests in Jerusalem order, it is to be given to them daily without fail, so that they may offer acceptable sacrifices to the God of heaven and pray for the lives of the king and his sons.

Furthermore, the King of Persia issued a decree to protect them as well.

And I issued a decree that any person who violates this decree, a timber shall be pulled out of his house, and he shall be impaled on it; His house shall be turned into a refuse heap on account of this. May the God who has caused His name to dwell there overthrow any king or people who attempts to change it, so as to destroy that house of God in Jerusalem. I, Darius, have issued this decree; it is to be carried out with all diligence!” EZRA 6:7-12 NASB

And later King Artaxerxes provided Nehemiah with all he needed to build the wall. How amazing! God provided all! He moved the heart of a pagan King to be the supplier.

“I myself, King Artaxerxes, issue a decree to all the treasurers who are in the provinces beyond the Euphrates River, that whatever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the Law of the God of heaven, may require of you, it shall be done diligently, up to a hundred talents of silver, a hundred kors of wheat, a hundred baths of wine, a hundred baths of anointing oil, and salt as needed. Whatever is commanded by the God of heaven, it shall be done with zeal for the house of the God of heaven, so that there will not be wrath against the kingdom of the king and his sons. We also inform you that it is not allowed to impose tax, tribute, or toll on any of the priests, Levites, singers, doorkeepers, temple servants, or other servants of this house of God. Ezra 7:21-24 (NASB)

Furthermore, King Artaxerxes spoke to Ezra.

25 “And you, Ezra, according to the wisdom of your God which is in your hand, appoint magistrates and judges so that they may judge all the people who are in the province beyond the Euphrates River, that is, all those who know the laws of your God; and you may teach anyone who is ignorant of them. 26 And whoever does not comply with the Law of your God and the law of the king, judgment is to be executed upon him strictly, whether for death or for banishment, or for confiscation of property or for imprisonment.”

For this Ezra proclaimed:

Blessed be the Lord, the God of our fathers, who has put such a thing as this in the king’s heart, to glorify the house of the Lord which is in Jerusalem and has extended favor to me before the king and his counselors and before all the king’s mighty officials. So, I was strengthened according to the hand of the Lord my God that was upon me, and I gathered leading men from Israel to go up with me. Ezra 7:27-28 (NASB)

And still, the people sinned.

But what can we say? Is this not what we also do? And so, God addresses them through Malachi.

“‘A son honors his father, and a servant his master. Then if I am a father, where is My honor? And if I am a master, where is My respect?’ says the Lord of armies to you, the priests who despise My name! But you say, ‘How have we despised Your name?’ You are presenting defiled food upon My altar. But you say, ‘How have we defiled You?’ In that you say, ‘The table of the Lord is to be despised.’ And when you present a blind animal for sacrifice, is it not evil? Or when you present a lame or sick animal, is it not evil? …

“If only there were one among you who would shut the gates, so that you would not kindle fire on My altar for nothing! I am not pleased with you,” says the Lord of armies, “nor will I accept an offering from your hand. For from the rising of the sun even to its setting, My name shall be great among the nations, and in every place frankincense is going to be offered to My name, and a grain offering that is pure; for My name shall be great among the nations,” says the Lord of armies. … You also say, ‘See, how tiresome it is!’ And you view it as trivial,” says the Lord of armies, Malachi 1: 5-8, 10-11, 13 NASB

Do We Trivialize God?

We think it is ok to give God our leftovers-time, energy, and worship. Then we trivialize the very thought of Him. All going through the motions without the devotion of our hearts.

You have wearied the Lord with your words. Yet you say, “How have we wearied Him?” In that you say, “Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the Lord, and He delights in them,” or, “Where is the God of justice?” Malachi 2:17 NASB

Do we not hear the same being taught?

Malachi was the last messenger, the last prophet until John the Baptist was born. There would be a gap of 400 years. Perhaps this is why his message must be one of a harsh rebuke against sin, a call to repentance and plea for the dedication of the people.

Would anyone rob God? Yet you are robbing Me! But you say, ‘How have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings. You are cursed with a curse, for you are robbing Me, the entire nation of you! Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and put Me to the test now in this,” says the Lord of armies, “if I do not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows. Then I will rebuke the devourer for you, so that it will not destroy the fruit of your ground; nor will the vine in the field prove fruitless to you,” says the Lord of armies. “All the nations will call you blessed, for you will be a delightful land,” says the Lord of armies. Malachi 3: 8-12 NASB

Zero Doubt God Will Accomplish All He Has Planned-Judgement and Blessing

Beyond those who failed to follow His word, there are many of us who merely grumble and moan about our lives. We lack an attitude of gratitude to surround our hearts. Expecting God to do more than the everything He has done.

“Your words have been arrogant against Me,” says the Lord. “Yet you say, ‘What have we spoken against You?’ You have said, ‘It is pointless to serve God; and what benefit is it for us that we have done what He required, and that we have walked in mourning before the Lord of armies? So now we call the arrogant blessed; not only are the doers of wickedness built up, but they also put God to the test and escape punishment.’” Malachi 3: 13-15 (NASB)

Yet some did remember God with honor as they spoke among themselves.

Then those who feared the Lord spoke to one another, and the Lord listened attentively and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the Lord and esteem His name. Malachi 3: 16 (NASB)

How sweet is that. As we join here together, God is listening attentively. His reply?

“And they will be Mine,” says the Lord of armies, “on the day that I prepare My own possession, and I will have compassion for them just as a man has compassion for his own son who serves him.” So, you will again distinguish between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him. Malachi 3: 17-18 (NASB)

Zero Doubt, God Will Accomplish All that He has Proclaimed

“Behold, I am sending My messenger, and he will clear a way before Me. And the Lord, whom you are seeking, will suddenly come to His temple; and the messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight, behold, He is coming,” says the Lord of armies. “But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner’s fire, and like launderer’s soap. Malachi 3:1-2 (NASB).

John the Baptist was the messenger preparing the way for Jesus. Little did they understand, He came first to be the Sacrificial lamb. Only He could pay the penalty for all our sin. Yet, they rejected Him. But He will come again, this time to sit upon His throne in Jerusalem. For now, how precious the thought, He tarries that we might be saved and we might go into the fields so white, ready for harvest.

When He returns at the end of the tribulation and even all that occurs during the tribulation will be that necessary to purify the nation of Israel and the earth as a whole.

And He will sit as a smelter and purifier of silver, and He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, so that they may present to the Lord offerings in righteousness. Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old, and as in former years. Malachi 3: 3-4 (NASB)

On that Day: Zero Doubt God Will

“Then I will come near to you for judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, the adulterers, against those who swear falsely, those who oppress the wage earner in his wages or the widow or the orphan, and those who turn away the stranger from justice and do not fear Me,” says the Lord of armies. “For I, the Lord, do not change; therefore you, the sons of Jacob, have not come to an end. Malachi 3:5-6 (NASB)

Zero Doubt, God will accomplish all He has Promised

How do we know? Because He has always since before the earth was formed. Therefore, we know, He will complete all He foretold to Malachi as well.

“For behold, the day is coming, burning like a furnace; and all the arrogant and every evildoer will be chaff; and the day that is coming will set them ablaze,” says the Lord of armies, “so that it will leave them neither root nor branches. But for you who fear My name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings; and you will go forth and frolic: like calves from the stall. 3 And you will crush the wicked underfoot, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day [c]that I am preparing,” says the Lord of armies. Malachi 4:1-3 (NASB)

So, we too must keep our eyes focused on Him.

“Remember the Law of Moses My servant, the statutes and ordinances which I commanded him in Horeb for all Israel. “Behold, I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and terrible day of the Lord. He will turn the hearts of the fathers back to their children and the hearts of the children to their fathers, so that I will not come and strike the land with complete destruction.” Malachi 4:4-6 (NASB)

And because of all that—

we must labor to spread His word while we can. His Word is Truth.

As Jesus passed by, He saw a man who had been blind from birth. And His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he would be born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him. We must carry out the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the Light of the world.” John 9:1-5 (NASB)

It is He who indwells us with the Holy Spirit, so we must labor while we are in this world.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

How Amazing God Draws a Straight Line with Crooked Pencils

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2024

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Picture licensed from Goodsalt.com

How Amazing God Draws a Straight Line with Crooked Pencils

But we are all like an unclean thing,

And all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags;

We all fade as a leaf,

And our iniquities, like the wind,

Have taken us away. Isaiah 64:6 (NKJV)

How is it possible that a perfect righteous God would consider us? He who cannot even look upon sin, turning His back upon even His own son as our sin was laid upon Him. Beyond that, Jesus willingly took our sin upon Himself, knowing the depth of wrath He must bare for our salvation. He took our place that He might declare us righteous, even though we have no righteousness of our. And because of all that Jesus willingly gave for our sake, we are bestowed with every spiritual gift. Furthermore, He has promised to transform our hearts into His image—completing the work He began in us. We have this hope because He has demonstrated this throughout His Word. God draws a straight-line with crooked pencils. He always has.

This we will see clearly as we study the inspiring hope filled book of Zechariah, Haggai, and Esther. God chooses at times the most unlikely to accomplish all He wills.

“I made myself available to those who did not ask for me;

(And) I appeared to those who did not look for me.

I said, ‘Here I am! Here I am!’

to a nation that did not invoke my name.

I spread out my hands all day long

to my rebellious people, … Isaiah 65:1-2 NET

God Draws Straight lines with Crooked Pencils

Why would God choose the broken? Look at these words in I Corinthians.

26 For consider your calling, brothers and sisters, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble; 27 but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong, 28 and the insignificant things of the world and the despised God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are, 29 so that no human may boast before God. 30 But it is due to Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption, 31 so that, just as it is written: “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” I Corinthians 1:26-31 (NASB).

Why would God proclaim a Nation His?

Some would ask why God would choose a people to call His own like the nation of Israel? For this I will turn to a sermon I heard of John McArthur¹

In it he laid out 7 reasons and I recommend that you go listen for more details of each point.

“to proclaim the existence of the true God. There had to be somebody in human society who would declare the truth about God.”

“Secondly, He needed a nation through whom He could reveal the Messiah.”

“Thirdly, God needed a nation to be a priest among men…. one who speaks to God on the behalf of men, who intercedes for men, and who, on occasion, will speak to men about God.” (Jesus is our high priest today—yet the concept was introduced to mankind through the nation)

“Fourthly, God chose Israel to transmit and preserve Scripture” (the Word of God)

“God needed a nation that could show the world that He was a faithful God.”

“Sixthly, I think the reason God needed a nation was to show man His grace in dealing with sin. God wanted to show the world that He was gracious, and there’s no better proof of it than to see how He blessed Israel in spite of Israel’s sin. “

“And seventh, a nation was needed to show God’s anger in dealing with unrepentance. God wanted the world to see how He dealt with sin and unrepentance and willful sin. And Israel is a perfect illustration of that.” No single nation has exemplified or shown this more than Israel. However, amid all this they also have shown God’s faithfulness and grace.

God Drawing a Straight Line with Crooked Pencils

The book of Zechariah is a book of great hope to those who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. His is a book of great prophecies that display the truth of Jesus Christ—the Messiah of God known here as “the Angel of the Lord.” It was a message to encourage the people. When Cyrus had given the order to return to Jerusalem only 50,000 of the more than a million exiles. These went with Zerubbabel. They became very discouraged and stopped rebuilding the temple. Life was difficult and they met with a lot of opposition by those nations living nearby.

The temple reconstruction began in 536 BC and then construction was abandoned. Haggai wrote to encourage the people in Then Zechariah wrote in The temple was finally completed in 515 BC. There remained many problems and issues. Esther’s acts to help reserve the Jews living in exile was 483-473 BC. Ezra went with another group of Jews in 458 BC. Nehemiah then returns to Jerusalem and guides the Jews to rebuild the city walls. He addressed both the political and spiritual breakdown among the people in addition to the construction of the wall to restore the people to God.

God Uses the Least of These

The remnant remained broken; sin filled humanity; but that is what is so amazing. God still drew straight lines with crooked pencils, always showing His faithfulness, His grace, and His fulfillment of all He foretold of. He is the same today as He was then.

A Call to the People to Follow

In the eighth month of the second year of Darius, the word of the Lord came to Zechariah the prophet, the son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo saying, 2 “The Lord was very angry with your fathers.” Zechariah 1 (NASB)

This was a reminder to the people of why they had been exiled; although, with this reminder comes this hope filled command.

3 Therefore say to them, ‘This is what the Lord of armies says: “Return to Me,” declares the Lord of armies, “that I may return to you,” says the Lord of armies.

With this also comes a warning.

4 “Do not be like your fathers, to whom the former prophets proclaimed, saying, ‘This is what the Lord of armies says: “Return now from your evil ways and from your evil deeds.”’ But they did not listen or pay attention to Me,” declares the Lord. Zechariah 1 (NASB)

“Therefore, remember. I did exactly as I declared.”

5 “Your fathers, where are they? And the prophets, do they live forever? 6 But did My words and My statutes, which I commanded My servants the prophets, not overtake your fathers? Then they repented and said, ‘Just as the Lord of armies planned to do to us in accordance with our ways and our deeds, so He has dealt with us.’” Zechariah 1 (NASB)

Visions of the night to bring hope-Straight Lines from Crooked Pencils

The first 8 chapters of Zechariah are 8 visions all presented in one night. Each vision is built upon the previous vision. Uniquely each vision came with an interpreter angel to explain the vision to guide Zechariah to understand.

8 “I saw in the night, and behold, a man riding on a red horse! He was standing among the myrtle trees in the glen, and behind him were red, sorrel, and white horses. 9 Then I said, ‘What are these, my lord?’ The angel who talked with me said to me, ‘I will show you what they are.’ Zechariah 1 (ESV)

The one on the red horse will later be identified as the Lord who is leading God’s army. That would be a the preincarnate Christ. He is the one who will enact full judgement one day for all the evil, but here he stands among the myrtle trees. They are symbolic of messianic restoration and blessing. He is there to protect and provide. In the vision:

So the man who was standing among the myrtle trees answered, ‘These are they whom the Lord has sent to patrol the earth.’ Zechariah 1:10 (ESV)

The Lord is our Intercessor Always

Their report was that all the other nations being at peace. History confirms this was the case under King Darius. Yet the Jews in Jerusalem were not at peace. So the mediator interceded with the Father.

Then the angel of the Lord said, ‘O Lord of hosts, how long will you have no mercy on Jerusalem and the cities of Judah, against which you have been angry these seventy years?’ 13 And the Lord answered gracious and comforting words to the angel who talked with me. Zechariah 1:12-13 (ESV)

God was going to use these imperfect people to continue to keep His promises and covenants. He declared Himself zealous for their cause.

thus says the Lord, I have returned to Jerusalem with mercy; my house shall be built in it,” declares the Lord of hosts, and the measuring line shall be stretched out over Jerusalem. Cry out again, Thus says the Lord of hosts: My cities shall again overflow with prosperity, and the Lord will again comfort Zion and again choose Jerusalem.’” Zechariah 1: 16-17 (ESV)

The Remainder of the Visions

The remainder of the visions were encouraging proof that God was accomplishing all that He planned for the good of His Chosen People even though they had not been the ones we would have chosen. His love never left them. He longed for them with a burning love to do them good, if only they would return to Him.

Then the last books of Zechariah (9-14) are about the first and second coming of Jesus to earth.

9 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion!
    Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem!
Behold, your king is coming to you;
    righteous and having salvation is he,
humble and mounted on a donkey,
    on a colt, the foal of a donkey.   Zechariah 9 (ESV)

And in the end: Victory

20 In that day “HOLINESS TO THE LORD” shall be engraved on the bells of the horses. The pots in the Lord’s house shall be like the bowls before the altar. 21 Yes, every pot in Jerusalem and Judah shall be holiness to the Lord of hosts. Zechariah 14 (NKJV)

Another Perfect Example of God Drawing Straight Lines with Crooked Pencils is Esther

So often we speak of the bravery and beauty of Esther with her full love story. But consider this. She and her uncle Mordecai had chosen to remain in Persia after the edict allowing them to return had long passed. Perhaps they felt the journey was too long and arduous. Or perhaps they were too content with their life in Persia. The name Esther is her Persian name meaning star. Her Hebrew name was Hadassah meaning myrtle. Her uncle Mordecai means bitter oppressed or crushed and in Persian meant servant of Marduk (one of the Persian gods). All of this to say that theirs was not particularly the most spiritually upright. Yet, God used them to save the Jews from extinction.

Note along the historical line of things, the temple was rebuilt. There was a new king in Persia. This was Xerxes I (also known as Ahasuerus). He had no ties to the Jewish people. His first in command Haman hated the Jews as part of a heritage going back to the days of Samuel and a disobedience of King Saul to destroy the conquered people. Thus, if Haman had his way the entire Jewish race would have been annihilated stopping God’s plan of salvation for the world.

So, enters a Jewish girl who hiding her heritage is even willing to be placed in the Persian beauty contest, sleep with an uncircumcised King, and risk being placed as merely part of his haram. No mention once of even prayer, yet a gracious God chooses to draw a very straight line with a crooked pencil.

Esther Must Choose

She is chosen to be queen by the providence of God Almighty. Mordechai by chance saves the Kings life being in the right place at the right time. When Mordechai hears of the new edict to kill all the Jews, he goes to speak to Queen Esther. There is a rule that no one, not even the Queen, can go before the King without being summoned.

At first, Esther reminded her uncle that this would be impossible because of the laws. However,

13 Then Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, “Do not imagine that you in the king’s palace can escape any more than all the other Jews. 14 For if you keep silent at this time, liberation and rescue will arise for the Jews from another place, and you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?” Esther 4 (NASB)

15 Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai, 16 “Go, gather all the Jews who are found in Susa, and fast for me; do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants also will fast in the same way. And then I will go in to the king, which is not in accordance with the law; and if I perish, I perish.” Esther 4 (NASB)

The Providence of God Draws a Straight Line with a Crooked Pencil

She did go before the King then and God guided her wisdom to present this in a very carefully designed manner of gentleness, dinners and waiting for the perfect timing. Suddenly, she had learned to listen to God’s guiding spirit to lead her. Or was it suddenly, we are not told of her spiritual growth but it may have been sprouting before this. Then, the king had a restless night of sleeplessness that led to his becoming aware of Mordecai saving his life. All this orchestrated by a perfect divine God willing to use broken vessels to accomplish His Plan.

This is what the Lord says:

“When juice is discovered in a cluster of grapes,

someone says, ‘Don’t destroy it, for it contains juice.’

So I will do for the sake of my servants—

I will not destroy everyone.

I will bring forth descendants from Jacob,

and from Judah people to take possession of my mountains.

My chosen ones will take possession of the land; my servants will live there. Isaiah 65: 8-9 (NET)

How amazing is our God! So, the question is: are you willing to surrender all and trust in God. You may just be the crooked pencil He needs to write the next line in His Story.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Two Babylonian King Display Both the Grace and Justice of God Almighty

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Picture licensed from Goodsalt.com

Two Babylonian King Display Both the Grace and Justice of God Almighty

1I will sing of the graciousness of the Lord forever;
To all generations I will make Your faithfulness known with my mouth.
2 For I have said, “Graciousness will be built up forever;
In the heavens You will establish Your faithfulness.”

13 You have a strong arm;
Your hand is mighty, Your right hand is exalted.
14 Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne;
Mercy and truth go before You.
15 Blessed are the people who know the joyful sound!
Lord, they walk in the light of Your face.
16 In Your name they rejoice all the day,
And by Your righteousness they are exalted.
17 For You are the glory of their strength,
And by Your favor our horn is exalted.
18 For our shield belongs to the Lord,
And our king to the Holy One of Israel. Psalm 89 (NASB

God is perfect righteousness and perfect love. Therefore, the grace and justice of God almighty is perfect as well. So many people want to separate God’s justice from His love; yet both exist together in perfect harmony. There can be no true love if justice is ignored. His grace and mercy are extensions of His Love without any compromise to His just righteousness.

²¹But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; ²²Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:²³For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; ²⁴Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: ²⁵Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; ²⁶To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Romans 3 (KJV)

Two Babylonian King Display Both the Grace and Justice of God

The final eight chapters of Ezekiel detail the millennial reign of Christ, which I encourage you to read with a good study bible. We now turn to the book of Daniel. There is much of Daniel we could look at; but I wanted to focus on two kings. That is King Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar in chapters 4 and 5. But before jumping in let me give some background here.

Daniel and the King

Daniel and his friends were taken to Babylon to be prepped for the King’s court. They were made eunuchs but also placed into rigorous schooling of languages, arts, history, and many other things. Groomed to be a part of the wise men of the day. Daniel and his three closest friends remained faithful to God throughout. As such, they also remained as humble servants of the King God had placed them under. For they understood, Judah fell due to her disobedience to God. They also remembered that God is Sovereign over the affairs of men. If King Nebuchadnezzar had rule over them, so be it God had ordained this thing.

Also, by allowing Daniel to see and interpret King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, Daniel understood the significance of the King’s role in history. He was given a prominent place in King Nebuchadnezzar’s life. And I dare say, Daniel was very fond of the King. Admiring all the good qualities and intelligence, he would pray for the King daily. King Nebuchadnezzar had seen the hand of God work on behalf of Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. He had developed a knowledge of God, but was yet not willing to surrender until…

One King Meets the Grace and Justice of God

King Nebuchadnezzar to all peoples, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth: Peace be multiplied to you! ²It has seemed good to me to show the signs and wonders that the Most High God has done for me. ³How great are his signs,
how mighty his wonders!
His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
and his dominion endures from generation to generation. Daniel 4 (ESV)

Notice that this is a chapter narrated by the King himself, tucked into the book of Daniel. This is significant, because it is his own words telling of his conversion. How much humility did it require for him to tell this story to all the people of all nations and languages. But that in itself demonstrates it veracity.

I, Nebuchadnezzar, was at ease in my house and prospering in my palace. I saw a dream that made me afraid. As I lay in bed the fancies and the visions of my head alarmed me. So I made a decree that all the wise men of Babylon should be brought before me, that they might make known to me the interpretation of the dream. Then the magicians, the enchanters, the Chaldeans, and the astrologers came in, and I told them the dream, but they could not make known to me its interpretation. Daniel 4:4-7 (ESV).

A Dream of the Grace and Justice of God

Finally, he called for Daniel to interpret the dream. Daniel was greatly grieved by the dream as he knew that justice of God would demand the King be brought low to deal with his pride, unless he humbly repent of his pride and acknowledge God as the one true King over all.

O king: It is a decree of the Most High, which has come upon my lord the king, that you shall be driven from among men, and your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field. You shall be made to eat grass like an ox, and you shall be wet with the dew of heaven, and seven periods of time shall pass over you, till you know that the Most High rules the kingdom of men and gives it to whom he will. Daniel 4:24-25 ESV

Note God told King Nebuchadnezzar that He was going to judge him if the King did not lay aside his pride and bow to God. This was a chance; but, God also told the King that God himself would protect his monarchy until this is past. What magnitude of Grace amid the Justice. God already knew that King Nebuchadnezzar would turn and bow. It is like the words of Jesus to Peter, “I have prayed for you that when you turn (not if) your faith will be restored.” Well for the King it would be a new faith, not one to be restored; but it would be a new surrender to God Almighty. Such grace and justice from God Almighty to King Nebuchadnezzar.

But Alas

29 At the end of twelve months he was walking on the roof of the royal palace of Babylon, 30 and the king answered and said, “Is not this great Babylon, which I have built by my mighty power as a royal residence and for the glory of my majesty?” 31 While the words were still in the king’s mouth, there fell a voice from heaven, “O King Nebuchadnezzar, to you it is spoken: The kingdom has departed from you, 32 and you shall be driven from among men, and your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field. And you shall be made to eat grass like an ox, and seven periods of time shall pass over you, until you know that the Most High rules the kingdom of men and gives it to whom he will.”

33 Immediately the word was fulfilled against Nebuchadnezzar. He was driven from among men and ate grass like an ox, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven till his hair grew as long as eagles’ feathers, and his nails were like birds’ claws. Daniel 4 (ESV)

Yet, God then Displays both Grace and Justice Toward this King

34 At the end of the days I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my eyes to heaven, and my reason returned to me, and I blessed the Most High, and praised and honored him who lives forever,

for His dominion is an everlasting dominion,
    and His kingdom endures from generation to generation;
35 all the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing,
He does according to His will among the host of heaven
    and among the inhabitants of the earth;
and none can stay His hand
    or say to Him, “What have you done?” Daniel 4 (ESV)

That changed everything.

Grace and Justice through faith.

36 At the same time my reason returned to me, and for the glory of my kingdom, my majesty and splendor returned to me. My counselors and my lords sought me, and I was established in my kingdom, and still more greatness was added to me. Daniel 4(ESV)

Then this great King declared to all:

37 Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, for all his works are right and his ways are just; and those who walk in pride he is able to humble. Daniel 4 (ESV)

The Kingdom is Transferred to Another Generation

Yet, King Nebuchadnezzar would die. His heirs did not worship God.

Amel-Marduk (“Evil-Merodach” of 2 Kgs 25:27; Jer 52:31), ruled but
two years and was replaced in 560 B. C. after an army coup by the
commander in chief, Neriglissar (Nergal-Sharezer of Jer39:3), son-in-
law of Nebuchadnezzar.

After frequent absences from active service, Neriglissar (559-555 B.C.)
was, in turn, ousted, and his weak son Labashi-Marduk lasted only a few
months before another coup d’etat brought Nabonidus to the throne.

Soon after his election, Nabonidus (553-536 B. C.) led the army to
Palestine and Northern Arabia, leaving his son Belshazzar as co-regent
in Babylon. Nabonidus’ decision to stay in Arabia resulted from his
unpopularity at home as much as from his desire to found a settlement
there with exiles from Palestine Chuck Missler from http://www.wpo-gregor.org/files/bible-college-masters-notes-missler/Daniel-Missler.pdf page 41

This leads us to Chapter 5 of Daniel

A story of Grace and Justice from God toward King Belshazzar. Grace in that he allowed him to be co-regent and given a chance to rule. Also grace, because he had demonstrated His Majesty in the life of King Nebuchadnezzar which all were aware. Justice, because despite all this King Belshazzar failed to honor God for all this.

King Belshazzar made a great feast for a thousand of his lords and drank wine in front of the thousand. Belshazzar, when he tasted the wine, commanded that the vessels of gold and of silver that Nebuchadnezzar his father[a] had taken out of the temple in Jerusalem be brought, that the king and his lords, his wives, and his concubines might drink from them. Then they brought in the golden vessels that had been taken out of the temple, the house of God in Jerusalem, and the king and his lords, his wives, and his concubines drank from them. They drank wine and praised the gods of gold and silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone. Daniel 5: 1-44 (ESV)

God would not stand by and watch this mockery.

Even before this, God had prepared a way for Cyrus as He had foretold of in the writings of Isaiah. Justice would be enacted.

While they are inflamed I will prepare them a feast
    and make them drunk, that they may become merry,
then sleep a perpetual sleep
    and not wake, declares the Lord.
I will bring them down like lambs to the slaughter,
    like rams and male goats. Jeremiah 51: 39-40 (ESV)

Meanwhile, during this great feasting and drunkenness, they did not notice the invasion being arranged and set up against them. Remember God is Sovereign as well as omniscient. He knows before what men will do. The Medo-Persian army had damned the river up higher, creating a way in. Babylon had dual walls and the only way in was through the waterways which were normally too high for anyone to enter. However, this way they walked right in. They became the sea of army entering beneath their walls

41 “How Babylon is taken,
    the praise of the whole earth seized!
How Babylon has become
    a horror among the nations!
42 The sea has come up on Babylon;
    she is covered with its tumultuous waves. Jeremiah 51 (ESV)

During their drunkenness, God wrote of Grace and Justice

In the same hour came forth fingers of a man’s hand, and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaster of the wall of the king’s palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote. Then the king’s countenance was changed, and his thoughts troubled him, so that the joints of his loins were loosed, and his knees smote one against another. Daniel 5:5-6 (KJV)

In other words, he lost his bowels into his pants. Oddly enough God had said this would be the case back in Isaiah in Isaiah prophecy of Cyrus.

Thus saith the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut; Isaiah 45: 1 (KJV)

Daniel Interprets the Handwriting

He reminds Belshazzar of the history of King Nebuchanezzar’s humbling conversion and how God had given the King so much in both grace and justice. But you,

Belshazzar, have not humbled your heart, though you knew all this, but you have lifted up yourself against the Lord of heaven. “Then from his presence the hand was sent, and this writing was inscribed. .. This is the interpretation of the matter: Mene, God has numbered the days of your kingdom and brought it to an end; Tekel, you have been weighed in the balances and found wanting; Peres, your kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians”

29 Then Belshazzar gave the command, and Daniel was clothed with purple, a chain of gold was put around his neck, and a proclamation was made about him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom.

30 That very night Belshazzar the Chaldean king was killed. 31 And Darius the Mede received the kingdom, being about sixty-two years old. Daniel 5:27-30 (ESV)

And so, justice was carried out when grace was denied and discarded.

What is the final of this?

The grace and justice of God Almighty is always and forever.

Jesus, the perfect righteous one, chose to enter the womb of a woman and be born into this world of sinful humankind that He might pay the penalty we deserved so that all who might by faith accept this gift of love could be transformed into His righteousness step by step, one glory by glory, until one day we would look like Him. But for those who choose to not receive, He will allow them to obtain as they have chosen. But that does mean justice will come for their pride in believing it had to be their way; when He gave all so they might choose Him and be saved.

For all those who acknowledge their own inability to obtain perfect righteousness, believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and accept His gracious gift of salvation–they will one day know.

When the oppressor is no more,
    and destruction has ceased,
and he who tramples underfoot has vanished from the land,
⁵then a throne will be established in steadfast love,
    and on it will sit in faithfulness
    in the tent of David
one who judges and seeks justice
    and is swift to do righteousness.” Isaiah 16:4-5 ESV

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

7 Proofs God Has Spoken and He Will Accomplish It All

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Picture licensed from Goodsalt.com

Who was Mark?

The Gospel of Mark

The Servant King Jesus Can Revive a Floundering Heart of Confusion

Jesus Can Revive a Floundering Heart of Failure

Jesus Can Revive a Floundering Heart of Fear

The Servant King Jesus Does Not Give Up In Teaching His Followers

The Servant King Jesus Can Revive the Floundering Heart of Unbelief

And So Jesus Healed Him by Reviving a Floundering Heart

The Servant King Jesus Can Revive the Floundering Heart of Despair

And what is the proof that Jesus Did revive the floundering heart of each of his disciples?

Another Important point about the Gospel of Mark

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

For Prayer or Comments

Previous

Share this:

Like this:

The King of the Kingdom Arrived on Earth

Further Proof of Jesus as King

What did He mean the Kingdom of Heaven at Hand?

Proving His Kingship through teaching and miracles

Ah, but to all those who believe is the Kingdom of heaven given

To Them He Calls Forth

The Kingdom of Heaven Taught Through Parables

So, why teach the kingdom of heaven in parables?

A further explanation:

Like Romans 1 Says.

So What Does the Parable of the Sower really mean? Jesus Explains

What About Those Who Seem to Start to follow?

The True Christ Follower—guaranteed the Kingdom of Heaven

So, How Do I know If I am a believer?

Conclusions

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

For Prayer or Comments

Previous

Share this:

Like this:

But When Will Justice Reign?

Zero doubt God will Accomplish All He has planned

And then it happened just as God said through Isaiah and Jeremiah.

Leaving Zero Doubt God will Accomplish all He has planned. His Word is Truth

Zero Doubt God Will Accomplish All He Proclaims-regardless of opposition

Furthermore, the King of Persia issued a decree to protect them as well.

Furthermore, King Artaxerxes spoke to Ezra.

And still, the people sinned.

Do We Trivialize God?

Do we not hear the same being taught?

Zero Doubt God Will Accomplish All He Has Planned-Judgement and Blessing

Yet some did remember God with honor as they spoke among themselves.

Zero Doubt, God Will Accomplish All that He has Proclaimed

On that Day: Zero Doubt God Will

Zero Doubt, God will accomplish all He has Promised

So, we too must keep our eyes focused on Him.

And because of all that—

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

For Prayer or Comments

Share this:

Like this:

God Draws Straight lines with Crooked Pencils

Why would God proclaim a Nation His?

God Drawing a Straight Line with Crooked Pencils

God Uses the Least of These

A Call to the People to Follow

With this also comes a warning.

Visions of the night to bring hope-Straight Lines from Crooked Pencils

The Lord is our Intercessor Always

The Remainder of the Visions

And in the end: Victory

Another Perfect Example of God Drawing Straight Lines with Crooked Pencils is Esther

Esther Must Choose

The Providence of God Draws a Straight Line with a Crooked Pencil

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

For Prayer or Comments

Share this:

Like this:

Two Babylonian King Display Both the Grace and Justice of God

Daniel and the King

One King Meets the Grace and Justice of God

A Dream of the Grace and Justice of God

But Alas

Yet, God then Displays both Grace and Justice Toward this King