Wednesday, 9 April 2025

Thoughts on the readings for April 10th (Numbers 28, Proverbs 20, John 1)

Numbers 28 and 29 record the offerings of the LORD. Chapter 28 verses 1-8 speak of the daily offerings. Lambs were offered every morning and every evening accompanied by grain and and drink offerings. These were the continual burnt offerings of the LORD. Israel's Sovereign smelled a sweet aroma as the smoke from the sacrifice ascended to Him. Verses 9-10 speak of the Sabbath offerings, which were identical to the morning and evening sacrifices and were offered additionally to the continuing burnt offerings of each morning and evening. Verses 11-15 tell of the monthly offerings of the new moon at the start of each month, which commenced with each new moon. These were a multiplication of animal offerings of bulls and lambs; and grain and drink offerings. A goat was offered for a sin offering as well as the burnt offerings. Verses 16-25 describe the Passover offerings. The Passover was called Yahweh's Passover and celebrated Israel's deliverance from Egypt. The offerings were made on the 14th day of the first month and the slain lambs were eaten on the 15th day of that month - Abib. Verses 26-31 outline the offerings for the Feast of Weeks, which was commemorated 7 weeks, ie 50 days after the Passover. This Feast coincided with the giving to Israel of the Ten Commandments. It is called the Feast of Pentecost in the New Testament and spoke of the going forth of the Word of the LORD that was accompanied by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. Every part of the nation's worship was designed to teach them what was being called for every day in each of their lives in the eyes of their Sovereign. Proverbs 20 is about wise judgment brought about by heeding the counsel of the Almighty. Verses 1-11 speak of avoiding destructive influences and hearkening to our Sovereign's enlightened advice. The behaviour of wise people keeps them from strife; not so the fools who create difficulties in their own lives and those lives of everybody who encounters them. These maxims are true for the king and commoner alike. The wise, verse 5, will not be deceived by fool. Controlling our actions by walking with integrity will confer blessings on the families of those who walk uprightly (v7). God weighs in His balance the lives of all who deal justly, or unjustly, with others (v10). The standards of fairness are seen in children who have been trained in the ways of the LORD. Verses 12-23 teach us that He who has made every part of us discerns and weighs our every action. Verse 23 repeats the message of verse 10. And although the examples of these verses differ from those at the start of the chapter the lessons are the same. Don't try to deceive, because those who cheat destroy themselves and all who they encounter. Verses 24-30 outline how the LORD directs the path of the wise. Yahweh our God discerns our every thought and act (v27). Stedfast faithfulness will preserve the king's throne (v28). And through discipline wisdom is learnt and lived (v30). The gospel record of John was most likely the last of the four written. Nor is it a summary of the ministry of the life of our Lord Jesus Christ. There are many more references to people discovering that Jesus was the Christ. Its theme is stated in chapter 20:31 "These things are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you might have life through his name." It records 8 signs, which are emphatic proofs of the stated theme. Chapter 1 is deliberately a parallel to Genesis 1. For just as Genesis 1 described the natural creation, which came into being through the Word of God in six days. Two groups of three repeated - LIGHT, WATER, LIFE; days 1-3 are paralleled and duplicated in days 4-6.; so too with the new spiritual creation in Christ. Jesus is declared to have come to his own (by ellipsis- people ) and failed to be accepted. This was not the case among believers. What a lofty theme. Jesus was the Word of God in the flesh ie one of us in nature and passions; and yet without sin totally revealing the Father's character to humanity. Read aloud verses 14-17 - Pause and Ponder. John was the disciple who rested on Jesus' bosom during the Last Supper and surely he writes with a measure of understanding his comments in chapter 1:18. The record of Jesus' baptism followed with John the Baptist's announcement of verse 29 "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." From verses 35-42 we have the earliest call of the first four of Jesus' disciples (later to become his Apostles) Andrew and John, Peter and James. From verses 43-51 we have the call of Philip and Nathanael. The latter convinced by our Lord's ability to reveal what Nathanael was thinking that Jesus must be the Son of God and the King of Israel. Twice in the chapter we are told that these men had found the Messiah ie the Christ - first by Andrew (v41) and then Nathanael (v49). But the reality was he had found them and extended to them the authority to become 'the sons of God' (verses 12-13). Penned by Warwick Rosser and his team, produced by Christadelphianvideo.org See more Thoughts from the Christadelphian Dialy Bible Reading Planner (By R.Roberts) here... https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-april-10th-numbers-28-proverbs-20-john-1/?feed_id=89248&_unique_id=67f629766c311

Thoughts on the readings for April 10th (Numbers 28, Proverbs 20, John 1)

Numbers 28 and 29 record the offerings of the LORD. Chapter 28 verses 1-8 speak of the daily offerings. Lambs were offered every morning and every evening accompanied by grain and and drink offerings. These were the continual burnt offerings of the LORD. Israel's Sovereign smelled a sweet aroma as the smoke from the sacrifice ascended to Him. Verses 9-10 speak of the Sabbath offerings, which were identical to the morning and evening sacrifices and were offered additionally to the continuing burnt offerings of each morning and evening. Verses 11-15 tell of the monthly offerings of the new moon at the start of each month, which commenced with each new moon. These were a multiplication of animal offerings of bulls and lambs; and grain and drink offerings. A goat was offered for a sin offering as well as the burnt offerings. Verses 16-25 describe the Passover offerings. The Passover was called Yahweh's Passover and celebrated Israel's deliverance from Egypt. The offerings were made on the 14th day of the first month and the slain lambs were eaten on the 15th day of that month - Abib. Verses 26-31 outline the offerings for the Feast of Weeks, which was commemorated 7 weeks, ie 50 days after the Passover. This Feast coincided with the giving to Israel of the Ten Commandments. It is called the Feast of Pentecost in the New Testament and spoke of the going forth of the Word of the LORD that was accompanied by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. Every part of the nation's worship was designed to teach them what was being called for every day in each of their lives in the eyes of their Sovereign. Proverbs 20 is about wise judgment brought about by heeding the counsel of the Almighty. Verses 1-11 speak of avoiding destructive influences and hearkening to our Sovereign's enlightened advice. The behaviour of wise people keeps them from strife; not so the fools who create difficulties in their own lives and those lives of everybody who encounters them. These maxims are true for the king and commoner alike. The wise, verse 5, will not be deceived by fool. Controlling our actions by walking with integrity will confer blessings on the families of those who walk uprightly (v7). God weighs in His balance the lives of all who deal justly, or unjustly, with others (v10). The standards of fairness are seen in children who have been trained in the ways of the LORD. Verses 12-23 teach us that He who has made every part of us discerns and weighs our every action. Verse 23 repeats the message of verse 10. And although the examples of these verses differ from those at the start of the chapter the lessons are the same. Don't try to deceive, because those who cheat destroy themselves and all who they encounter. Verses 24-30 outline how the LORD directs the path of the wise. Yahweh our God discerns our every thought and act (v27). Stedfast faithfulness will preserve the king's throne (v28). And through discipline wisdom is learnt and lived (v30). The gospel record of John was most likely the last of the four written. Nor is it a summary of the ministry of the life of our Lord Jesus Christ. There are many more references to people discovering that Jesus was the Christ. Its theme is stated in chapter 20:31 "These things are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you might have life through his name." It records 8 signs, which are emphatic proofs of the stated theme. Chapter 1 is deliberately a parallel to Genesis 1. For just as Genesis 1 described the natural creation, which came into being through the Word of God in six days. Two groups of three repeated - LIGHT, WATER, LIFE; days 1-3 are paralleled and duplicated in days 4-6.; so too with the new spiritual creation in Christ. Jesus is declared to have come to his own (by ellipsis- people ) and failed to be accepted. This was not the case among believers. What a lofty theme. Jesus was the Word of God in the flesh ie one of us in nature and passions; and yet without sin totally revealing the Father's character to humanity. Read aloud verses 14-17 - Pause and Ponder. John was the disciple who rested on Jesus' bosom during the Last Supper and surely he writes with a measure of understanding his comments in chapter 1:18. The record of Jesus' baptism followed with John the Baptist's announcement of verse 29 "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." From verses 35-42 we have the earliest call of the first four of Jesus' disciples (later to become his Apostles) Andrew and John, Peter and James. From verses 43-51 we have the call of Philip and Nathanael. The latter convinced by our Lord's ability to reveal what Nathanael was thinking that Jesus must be the Son of God and the King of Israel. Twice in the chapter we are told that these men had found the Messiah ie the Christ - first by Andrew (v41) and then Nathanael (v49). But the reality was he had found them and extended to them the authority to become 'the sons of God' (verses 12-13). Penned by Warwick Rosser and his team, produced by Christadelphianvideo.org See more Thoughts from the Christadelphian Dialy Bible Reading Planner (By R.Roberts) here... https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-april-10th-numbers-28-proverbs-20-john-1/?feed_id=89248&_unique_id=67f629766c00e

Tuesday, 8 April 2025

Thoughts on the readings for April 9th Numbers 27, Proverbs 19, Philippians 3-4

Numbers 27 Among the final duties of Moses was dealing with a family anomaly and the appointment and preparation of Joshua to assume his role. This chapter addresses these two things. V.1-11 – In the orders for the division of the land, just given (Num. 26), no provision had been made for females, in case of failure of male issue. The five daughters of Zelophehad, therefore, considered themselves as destitute, having neither father nor brother, and feeling themselves entirely overlooked agreed to refer the case to Moses and the rulers, whether it were not equitable that they should inherit their father's portion. This led to the enactment of an additional law to the civil code of Israel, which satisfactorily ascertained and amply secured the right of succession in cases of inheritance. This law, which is as reasonable as it is just, stands thus: 1. On the demise of the father, the estate descends to the sons. 2. If there be no son, the daughters succeed. 3. If there be no daughter, the brothers of the deceased inherit. 4. If there be no brethren, or paternal uncles, the estate goes to the grand uncles, or brothers of his father. 5. If there be no grand uncles, then the nearest of kin succeeds to the inheritance. The daughters of Zelophehad appear again in Num. 36:1-12. V.12-23 – Moses was allowed one view of the land promised to Abraham before his death. This raised the issue of who would replace him as leader of the nation. His question is answered by Yahweh in the appointment of Joshua. Proverbs 19 Prov. 19:1 – “Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.” Poverty and integrity do not always go hand in hand. In fact, sometimes poverty produces a perversity that blames God for its condition; V.3 – “The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against Yahweh.” The rich have friends (V.6), but nobody wants to know the poor man (V.4,7), except “the king’s son” – V.17; Ps. 72:12-14. Having begun with “integrity” in V.1, there is an emphasis in this chapter on the scourge of false witnesses – V.5,9,28. Nothing is more harmful than the peddling of lies and rumors. Philippians 3 Phil. 3:2 – “Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision” (katatomē – cutting off; mutilation = circumcision). Paul warns against Judaisers who worked surreptitiously to undermine his influence. That the term ‘dog’ could be used of them indicates how unruly and vicious their behavior was. The term dog also is used to denote a person that is shameless, impudent, malignant, snarling, dissatisfied, and contentious, and is evidently so employed here. Paul acknowledges that he had acted like them in the past, but had been rescued from it by Christ’s intervention (V.3-9). His rescue had been a ‘resurrection’ to a new life in Christ (V.10), but one that brought sufferings and persecution such as he had dealt out to believers. He looked for a better “resurrection” – the word in V.11 is exanastasis – a rising from death (but to be given eternal life), hence, the prefix. Anastasis is about raising the dead to mortal life. Paul knows that his total commitment to Christ after his conversion in ‘repayment’ for his persecuting past will lead to eternal life (1 Cor. 9:16-18; 15:8-10). V.12-17 – But Paul is careful not to wallow in the past as there was much to do, and there were many handicaps, not the least of these human nature to which some had capitulated (V.18-19). In a series of engaging sentences well translated by Weymouth, Paul set forth his goals – V.12-14 – “I do not say that I have already won the race or have already reached perfection. But I am pressing on, striving to lay hold of the prize for which also Christ has laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not imagine that I have yet laid hold of it. But this one thing I do--forgetting everything which is past and stretching forward to what lies in front of me, with my eyes fixed on the goal I push on to secure the prize of God's heavenward call in Christ Jesus.” V.20 – “For our conversation (politeuma – citizenship) is in heaven,” hence, followers of Christ do not participate in politics on earth in any form. V.21 – “Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.” This is the “prize” of V.14. While there is nothing good in human nature, the KJV translation is deficient. A number of reliable translations have transform “the body of our humiliation.” Human nature routinely humiliates us by disease, regressive malfunction, transgression and an endless bias towards evil, and of course, ultimately death. We seek to receive the now “glorious body” of our Lord from him. Penned by Warwick Rosser and his team, produced by Christadelphianvideo.org See more Thoughts from the Christadelphian Dialy Bible Reading Planner (By R.Roberts) here... https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-april-9th-numbers-27-proverbs-19-philippians-3-4/?feed_id=89227&_unique_id=67f51ac367f86

Thoughts on the readings for April 8th (Numbers 26; Proverbs 18; Philippians 1, 2)

Numbers 26 tells of the census that was taken of the new generation - those who were above 20 years of age, when 38 years earlier God had destined their fathers to die in the desert because of their failure to believe God could give them the Land He had promised to Abraham.This generation would be stedfast in the ways of the LORD. It would be that way for at least one and a half generations - see Joshua 24:31. Some of the more numerous tribes declined in number during their wasting away in the wilderness. There is almost a direct relationship between the rebellions started by certain tribes and their significant reduction in population prior to the entry into the Promised Land. These numbers were used together with a distribution by lot to determine the size of the land each tribe would inherit. There was no census for the Levites as Yahweh was their portion. The other salutary lesson from this chapter is the inheritance that would be given to faithful Caleb and Joshua, who wholly followed Yahweh with their heart; at the time that the bull of the nation were consigned to perishing in the wilderness because they yielded to their evil hearts of unbelief; and failed to trust in "the Living God". Proverbs 18 is about friendship its benefits and its obligations. Verses 1-8 outlines wise thinking and the words which the wise speak - words which bring blessings to those who heed what was said. By contrast verses 6-7 tell us that a fool's mouth is an invitation to strife and his words continually bring trouble upon his head. Gossip is the way of the fool and those associated with him will experience total disaster. Verses 9-19 speaks about the need for diligence in order to be successful. These are contrasted with the true protection, which never fails, the name of Yahweh is a fortress (v10). Those who trust in the LORD are imperishable. They are indestructible. The life of the faithful is in the hand of their Maker. They need have no fear of men, because of their reverence for the Almighty - Matthew 10:16-33. Read aloud slowly. Contemplate this message for how you will live your life before your Sovereign and as a witness to your community. The wise men speaks of pride preceding a fall (v12). We are told to listen before speaking (v13). Generosity paves the way for acceptance (v16). Don't win an argument via persistence - be prepared to agree through a lot, ie it doesn't matter if you never win. If you simply win through aggression, or because you won't stop arguing you have lost a friend and a great deal more (v18). Verse 19 tells us that if your insistence creates a rift then it can only be healed via great efforts and immense sufferings. Verses 20-24 tell us, yet once again to be diligent in order to live adequately. What a great lesson verse 21 teaches - your tongue can save another person, or destroy them. A Godly companion in life is an aid and blessing in our walk towards the kingdom of God (v22). Be a close friend rather than a ruinous babbler (v24). According to Acts 28 Paul spent two years under house arrest in Rome (AD62-64). During this time Philippians, and Philemon were written. Acts 16 provided the background to the gospel arriving in Philippi. Philippians is called Paul's letter of joy and its theme is, "Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice." In chapter 1 of the letter the Apostle described his constant thanksgiving for the love of the believers in that city - colony which was heavily Roman in every way. He told them of the advance of the gospel in Rome and that even members of the Praetorian guard had become faithful believers. Unfortunately, not all 'brethren' were happy - there was a group of false believers (known as Judaisers) whose motives for preaching were to see Paul persecuted. Paul, indeed would have been happy to die for the faith, nonetheless he felt that continued living would be for the benefit of the believers. In chapter 2 we have wonderful exhortations of Christ's mindset, as always being to honour and exalt his Father and for the benefit of others. Let that, said Paul, be the attitude of every believer. As God's Son our Lord had a status higher than anyone; yet he suffered as a servant the death of the cross. Now he is exalted at the Father's right hand with the name of Yahweh Himself (Isaiah 45). Believers bare the responsibility of shining as lights among this twisted world. He showed that Timothy and Epaphroditus both demonstrated Christ-like love for the believers in Philippi. Their own lives were put behind the course and purpose of the gospel. Penned by Warwick Rosser and his team, produced by Christadelphianvideo.org See more Thoughts from the Christadelphian Dialy Bible Reading Planner (By R.Roberts) here... https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-april-8th-numbers-26-proverbs-18-philippians-1-2/?feed_id=89206&_unique_id=67f5171d27e11

Thoughts on the readings for April 7th Numbers 24-25; Proverbs 17; Ephesians 5-6

Thoughts on the readings for April 7th Numbers 24-25; Proverbs 17; Ephesians 5-6 WALK IN LOVE AS CHRIST HAS LOVED US Balaam was a false seer (prophet), telling his clients what they wanted to know for money. He had named his price to the King ( He mentioned the equivalent of a house full of silver and gold – Numbers 24:13). And yet, the LORD God had used him to bless Israel rather than curse them. The LORD sometimes uses such people to promote His will, turning their own folly against them and their clients (Prov 26:5). A similar case was the witch of Endor (1Sam 28:7-15). And so Balaam makes an amazing prophecy about the Lord Jesus •Num 24:17 there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, This Star will be all conquering and surely it speaks of the Lord Jesus when he comes to set up his Kingdom. In Rev 22:16 Jesus calls himself •‘the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star’. And Peter states •2Pet 1:19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Jesus, whose star the wise men of the East saw, will return to rule all the nations of the earth. Moreover the ‘dominion’ (Num 24:19) is ultimately to be over sin and death. But Balaam came up with a plan which would alienate Israel from their God and, he hoped, bring about their ruin, so he could get paid! Sent on Balaam’s advice (Numbers 31:16), the women of Moab visited the camp, and invited them back to sample their hospitality. Proverbs tells us to always ask God before we make any big decisions. •Proverbs 16:3 Commit your works unto the LORD. Because •Prov 16:25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. They should have consulted the LORD at the outset, but their walk into the camp of the Moabites led to the death of many "While Israel was staying in Shittim, the men began to indulge in sexual immorality with the Moabite women, who invited them to the sacrifices to their gods. The people ate and bowed before these gods. So Israel joined in worshipping the Baal of Peor. And the LORD's anger burned against them."(Num 25:1-3) And The LORD sent a plague which killed 24,000 people and was appeased by Phineas , son of Elazar and grandson of Aaron putting to death the most prominent sinner; thus putting a stop to the plague. For this he was rewarded by the LORD’S promise that the priesthood would remain in his family forever (25:10-13) Walking to the camp of Israel and taking part in idolatrous worship brought disaster upon the people, for they sacrificed and bowed down to false gods. A lesson to us we should walk in love as Christ has loved us and given himself as an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. ( Ephesians 5:2) Proverbs 17:9 tells us that covering over the hurt someone has done to you and forgetting all about it is the way to develop the kind of love which the Lord Jesus showed all his life and which pleases God He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; Today the word ‘love’ is so misused. Scriptural love is far better than just strong affection. To love ‘as Christ loved us’ calls for a special love which has its own Greek word ‘agape’ which means an unselfish and perfect love – such as the love God showed in giving His only Son for us. This is the kind of love the Lord Jesus showed at all times So Paul tells us we ought to •‘walk in love as Christ also hath loved us’(5:2). This is seen in the way that husbands and wives should love and respect each other; how children and parents ought to treat each other; even how slaves should behave towards their masters and masters to their slaves. When you walk in love you try to treat all these people and all mankind, in a kind and unselfish manner- walking in just the way the Lord Jesus Christ walked, remembering the love of God; for God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 Here are some guidelines for our walk. Cultivate the fruit of the Spirit ( goodness and righteousness) (5:9) Redeem the time- don’t waste it (16) Make melody in your heart to the LORD through Psalms and hymns (19) Offer thankful prayer regularly for yourself and God’s people, the saints (5:20 & 6:18) Be strong in the LORD in solid defence of the Scriptures and wear the whole armour of God, (6:14-17) .. Wear Truth as a belt and cover your heart with a breastplate of righteousness. As you walk, preach the Gospel, shield yourself with faith; protect your mind with the helmet of salvation and defend yourself with the sword of the Spirit- the Word of God. And let’s not forget how helpful a positive attitude is in our walk for . Prov 17: A merry heart doeth good like a medicine! So Let us not be diverted by the call of the word to sin, as did Israel and thus walked on the path which leads to death but rather travel the way to righteousness. Putting on Christ in baptism to become one of the saints.And making sure that our love for our Saviour, Jesus Christ is not just affection but an undying, practical, thankful agape love. Penned by Warwick Rosser and his team, produced by Christadelphianvideo.org See more Thoughts from the Christadelphian Dialy Bible Reading Planner (By R.Roberts) here... https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-april-7th-numbers-24-25-proverbs-17-ephesians-5-6/?feed_id=89185&_unique_id=67f5168762f05

Sunday, 6 April 2025

Family Matters: Depression and Spirituality: Finding Hope in God’s Word

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css="" css_animation="none"]A @Christadelphians Video: **YouTube Video Title:** A @Christadelphians Video: **Video Description:** In this powerful episode of *Family Matters*, we dive deep into the sensitive yet crucial topic of **Depression and Spirituality**. Join us as we explore how faith, prayer, and God’s Word can provide hope, healing, and strength during times of emotional and mental struggle. Whether you or someone you love is battling depression, this talk offers practical insights, biblical wisdom, and spiritual encouragement to help you navigate life’s challenges with God’s guidance. 🔔 *Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more uplifting content!* **📌 Chapters / Timestamps:** 00:00 - **Introduction**: Understanding Depression and Its Impact on Spirituality 05:12 - **The Root Causes of Depression**: Emotional, Physical, and Spiritual Factors 12:45 - **Biblical Perspectives on Depression**: Stories of Hope in Scripture 20:30 - **Practical Steps to Overcome Depression**: Prayer, Community, and God’s Promises 28:15 - **The Role of Faith in Healing**: Trusting God in the Darkest Moments 35:40 - **Encouragement for Caregivers**: How to Support Loved Ones Struggling with Depression 42:50 - **Conclusion**: Finding Light in the Darkness Through God’s Love **📖 Bible Verses Discussed (with Emojis for Engagement!):** ✨ **Psalm 34:18** - "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." 🌿 **Matthew 11:28** - "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." 💪 **2 Corinthians 1:3-4** - "The God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles." 🕊️ **Psalm 42:11** - "Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God." 🌟 **Isaiah 41:10** - "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God." 🙏 **Philippians 4:6-7** - "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, present your requests to God." [embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-Rtku-pZCo[/embedyt] **🔍 Categories:** #DepressionAndFaith #SpiritualHealing #BibleTalk #MentalHealthAwareness #ChristianLiving #FamilyMatters #HopeInGod #BiblicalWisdom **💬 Engage with Us!** We’d love to hear your thoughts! How has God helped you through difficult times? Share your experiences in the comments below, and let’s encourage one another in faith. **🙏 Thank you for watching!** If this video blessed you, please SHARE it with someone who needs encouragement today. Together, we can spread God’s love and hope to those who need it most. **SEO-Friendly Tags:** depression and spirituality, overcoming depression with faith, Bible verses for depression, Christian mental health, spiritual healing, biblical hope, family matters Bible talk, Christian encouragement, prayer for depression, God’s promises for healing, emotional healing, mental health and faith, Christian living, Bible study on depression, finding hope in God. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css="" css_animation="none"]*************************************************************************************** This video was produced by the ChristadelphianVideo.org project, arranged and supported by Christadelphians worldwide. You can follow us online at.. #1 Our Main site...                      #2 Our podcast on Spotify..      #3 Our podcast on Apple.        #4 Our podcast on Podbean   #5 Our facebook...                      #6 Our Whats App..                      #7 Our Instagram...                     #8 Our X...                                       #9 Our YouTube Channel...     #10 Our Audio site ...                 Watch/read/Listen/ subscribe to  thoughts for the day CHRISTADELPHIANVIDEO.ORG, a worldwide collaboration by Christadelphians to help promote the understanding of God's Word to those who are seeking the Truth about the Human condition and God's plan and Purpose with the Earth and Mankind upon it. #Christadelphianvideo #christadelphianstalk #Christadelphians #bibletruthfeed #openbible #Gospeltruth #gospel #Christadelphian #bibletruthfeed #podcast[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] https://christadelphianvideo.org/studyvideo/family-matters-depression-and-spirituality-finding-hope-in-gods-word/?feed_id=89159&_unique_id=67f25222c4f14

Friday, 4 April 2025

Thoughts on the readings for April 6th (Numbers 22, 23, Proverbs 16, Ephesians 3, 4)

Numbers 22-25 tells the story of the prophecies and disasters brought upon Israel. Balaam was a prophet who knew the truths of Yahweh the God of Israel. How this came to be we could only speculate. We cannot say where his understanding came from. How often this happens in the Scriptures never ceases to amaze us - Melchizedek's greatness and sudden appearance on the scene at the time of Abraham and Rahab's faith within the Canaanite city of Jericho being two such examples of a similar type. Balaam was known to be a prophet of the Lord GOD living in the Promised Land, probably on the eastern side of the river Jordan, at the time of Israel's wanderings in the wilderness. As Israel drew nearer to Moab the king of Moab, Balak, became anxious since the Israelites had recently overthrown two mighty Canaanitish nations in the kingdoms of Sihon and Og. Balak decides that he needs divine help in bringing cursing upon his foes. The king of Moab sent ambassadors promising untold wealth and beseeching Balaam to come to Moab and curse Israel. Balaam was enticed by the opportunity to become wealthy. However Balaam was warned by God to refuse the ambassadors and to send them home. Balak resent greater ambassadors with increased offers. Balaam said to these men that his answer would have to be the same as previously. The LORD knew that Balaam was extremely covetous and the Almighty would use the arising changed circumstances to achieve His own will. So Yahweh told Balaam if on the next morning the ambassadors repeated their offer, then and only on that basis, Balaam would be allowed to return to Moab with those ambassadors. Greedy Balaam failed to obey God being driven by his intense covetousness. He rose early and said to the ambassadors let's go now. Verses 22-35 describe the Almighty's anger against Balaam and the way in which our Sovereign used a dumb donkey to rebuke the madness of the prophet - see Jude verses 10-11; and also 2 Peter 2:15. Three times Balaam pressed on towards destruction despite the LORD using the ass to try to restrain the mad prophet. Finally God opened the donkey's mouth to try to talk sense into the seer. Some people say that this story in the Bible cannot be believed - despite cocky's talking and parrots; a talking snake in Genesis 3 (science tells us that snakes have larynxes like humans, which renders them capable of speech - even if this were not the case nothing is impossible for our Sovereign. The Almighty having severely reprimanded Balaam allowed him to proceed, but under strict conditions. Balak remonstrates with Balaam on his arrival in Moab. Balaam tells Balak the conditions for his employment. After that Balaam and Balaam offered sacrifices to the LORD and went to a mountain top to view a part of the nation of Israel to commence his prophecies. Chapter 23 tells us of Balaam's first and second oracles (divine revelations). Verses 1-12 unfolds the messages of the first cluster of prophecies. Balaam again tells of the constraints that the LORD had placed on him. The prophet's first utterance tells of the impossibility of cursing Israel - the people upon whom God had pronounced blessing - see Isaiah 54:17. The seer speaks of future blessings on that nation. Israel will dwell in isolation among the world of nations, as they do now. The final condition of Israeli will be a blessed state, which will bring blessings to the entire earth as Genesis 12:3 and Romans 4:13 reveals. Balak is frustrated with this oracle and castigates Balaam. After further offerings Balaam is given another opportunity to curse Israel. The second oracle commenced with a rebuke to Balak for his foolishness to believe that God could turn against His people and curse them. Israel's deliverance from Egypt was evidence of Yahweh's blessings on them and those blessings continued to abide upon the people of the Divine King of the universe. They will also be blessed when Zion's king rules them from the regal world metropolis in Jerusalem - Psalm 2; Isaiah 2 verses 1-5; Jeremiah 3 verses 15-18. The nation of Israel will avenge themselves against their foes at the time of the commencement of Messiah's coming Kingdom. Balak commands Balaam to stop blessing them and to start cursing that nation. More sacrifices were made at Baal Peor as a preparation for the next oracle. Proverbs 16 deals with the righteous recognising that the LORD is the devisor and director of their paths. Their words and walk in wisdom will be in the understanding that it is He whom we seek to please by our endeavour to walk before him in integrity and uprightness. Whatever we do we need to remember that while we purpose to do things it is only our Sovereign's will that shall come to pass - James 4:13-17. We must plan to do according to our Father's will, not from our lusts and covetousness. We must having committed our ways to our God accept that the outcomes are those which He has allowed. Seeking peace and contentment in life must be objectives which shape and control our walk before the Almighty and within society. Truthful and wise speech will bring favour even in the highest realms; but foolish speech will bring to ruin both the speaker and those who hear such folly. Humility will always precede proper and profitable talk, whereas pride goes before destruction. How sweet it is to hear gracious speech - Ephesians 4 verse 29. By contrast bitter words and gossip are not suitable for followers of truth and righteousness; such words are destructive - James 3 verses 13-18. Verse 25 reiterates one of the Proverbs vital themes: "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death" (ESV). James tell us in his 3rd chapter the importance of controlling our tongue and the 32nd verse of Proverbs 16 tells us how greatly God esteems the control of your tongue: "Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city" (ESV). Samson only learned this at his life's end. Let us hear swiftly and speak only after contemplating the wise counsel of God that His Word can generate within our minds. May the Almighty's Word and His ways be the motivation and directing power to our lives. In Ephesians 3 the Apostle Paul outlines the 'mystery' (the Greek word simply means 'secret') that God always intended for the Gentiles to be included in the blessings of the gospel. From verses 14-22 we read of the Apostle's prayer for the believers' spiritual strength and growth. Notice that the love of God surpasses understanding and includes four dimensions - length, breadth, depth and height. This indicates that the love of the Father cannot be measured. Chapter 4 contains a plea for unity among the body of believers. In the truth there is a sevenfold unity (verses 4-6). This is essentially because God, our Father is one. Those verses cite several Old Testament Scriptures supporting this purpose - Psalm 68; Deuteronomy 30. The result is that the distribution of gifts is defined by the function they fulfil in promoting and producing a united body. Each believer has been called to a new life described in verses 17-32. Carefully read verses 20-24 which tell us how faithful believers in Christ live by modelling their lives on his. Also contemplate the need to replace old evil habits with positive beneficial behaviours as verses 25-32 teach us. The last three verses say that any failure to act in a way that reveals that we are the children of the Almighty will grieve our loving Heavenly Father. The only way to overcome sin is by "replacement therapy". Penned by Warwick Rosser and his team, produced by Christadelphianvideo.org See more Thoughts from the Christadelphian Dialy Bible Reading Planner (By R.Roberts) here... https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-april-6th-numbers-22-23-proverbs-16-ephesians-3-4/?feed_id=89138&_unique_id=67f0a0c879ee8

Thoughts on the readings for April 4th (Numbers 19, Proverbs 14, Galatians 5,6) .

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT Contact with death, or even going into a tent where a dead body was, made the Israelite unclean under the Law. The remedy was for water of separation made from the ashes of a red heifer that was offered as a sin offering (Numbers 19) The red heifer was led "forth without the camp". This pointed forward to Christ (Heb 13:12) who also suffered without the camp and so in Hebrews we are exhorted to go therefore unto him without the camp bearing his reproach. Just as the ashes of the heifer were for the purification of both Jew and gentile – stranger (v10) – the blood of Christ can cover the sins of any. There was no intrinsic virtue in the ashes. It required faith to believe in their efficacy – just like the blood of Jesus. Romans 6:23 states •The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God s eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. This was because the Lord Jesus had the opposite effect to the Law. He touched dead bodies and they came alive and was thus far superior to the water of separation (purification) made from the ashes of the Red Heifer •Heb 9:12-14 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? Rather than offering sacrifices, the Lord Jesus taught that the Law was fulfilled in love for others. Love God was the first Great Commandment and •Matt 22:38-40 the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. The Law of Moses was basically honouring God and loving your neighbour and it had been superseded by the Law of Christ. •Those who are led by Spirit are not under the Law( Galatians 5:18) Being led by the Spirit, means believing and practising the commandments of the Lord Jesus, and producing the fruit of the spirit, which is love, joy , peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and self-control and Paul states these are far better than the law. Our Love needs to be like God's perfect love, an unselfish (agape) love.. Agape love is where you are prepared to unselfishly be like the Lord Jesus and give up all for the God you love and His servants, just as God gave His Son for us. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 states that someone showing this kind of love is long suffering, kind, doesn’t envy, doesn’t brag, or behave badly. They aren’t partial nor easily annoyed. With no evil thoughts and hating sin, they are truthful, patient, hopeful and good under pressure. And we can aim to be that kind of person, if we develop the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, striving to have the type of love which God has for us and which we see in His daily care for us and by His gift of His only Son. Paul says •Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. Gal 5:16 . This character will grow in us if we give ourselves to Him and work to grow the fruit of the Spirit. Baptised believers - those who are Christ’s - need to put to death those feelings which are contrary to God. Which is termed crucifying the flesh. •Gal 5:24-25 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. And while this might seem quite daunting, Paul closes his letter on a very positive note. (6:2-6) We need to be prepared to carry our own loads, but be willing to help others. We should not get tired of doing good. In fact, we should be ready to do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the household of believers. Remembering that when you put on Christ in baptism you become a new creature in God’s eyes, and it doesn’t matter whether they have been circumcised or not (6:15). So, from beginning to end of this letter, Paul concentrates on the Gospel of Christ which teaches that whatever their old beliefs were, being ‘in Christ’ makes a new person of them – no longer tied to old beliefs but free to rejoice and produce fruit of the spirit - in contrast to their past bondage to sin. •Rom 6:20-22 For when ye were the servants of sin,ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. In Proverbs , as we have seen in Galatians, servants of God show love. They are kind to the needy, they don't look down on the poor (Prov 14:20) but have mercy on them and in so doing, honour the Maker of us all (v31), In today’s world there are so many things which go against the Word of God and the teaching of the Gospel. On the surface they seem right and proper and do no harm to anyone, but lives which take no thought of the commands of God will end in everlasting death as Proverbs 14:12 states.’There is a way that seems right to mand, but the end thereof are the ways of death’. On the other hand those who fear The LORD,and obey the Commandments of Christ in belief, repentance and baptism, can have a hope of eternal life in God’s Kingdom to come, for Prov 14:27 The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death. Penned by Warwick Rosser and his team, produced by Christadelphianvideo.org See more Thoughts from the Christadelphian Dialy Bible Reading Planner (By R.Roberts) here... https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-april-4th-numbers-19-proverbs-14-galatians-56/?feed_id=89117&_unique_id=67ef96b85dc4a

Thursday, 3 April 2025

Family Matters #48 Healthy Family Eating: Biblical Wisdom for Nourishing Your Body & Soul 🥗🙏

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css="" css_animation="none"]A @Christadelphians Video: **YouTube Video Title:** **Video Description:** In this episode of *Family Matters*, we dive into the importance of healthy eating for families from a biblical perspective. Discover how God’s Word guides us to nourish our bodies, honor Him, and build stronger family bonds through mindful eating habits. Whether you’re looking for spiritual inspiration or practical tips for healthier meals, this talk is packed with wisdom for every family! 📖 **Bible Verses Discussed:** - 🍎 Proverbs 23:20-21 - � 1 Corinthians 10:31 - 🥖 Matthew 4:4 - 🍇 Daniel 1:8-16 - 🥗 Genesis 1:29 - 🍯 Psalm 34:8 **Timestamps (Chapters):** 00:00 - **Introduction**: Why Healthy Eating Matters for Families 05:12 - **Biblical Foundations**: What Does the Bible Say About Food? 12:45 - **Daniel’s Diet**: Lessons from Daniel 1 on Discipline & Health 20:30 - **Honoring God with Our Bodies**: 1 Corinthians 10:31 Explained 28:15 - **Practical Tips**: How to Implement Healthy Eating in Your Family 35:40 - **Spiritual Nourishment**: Food as a Gift from God 42:00 - **Conclusion**: Key Takeaways & Encouragement for Families **Why Watch This Video?** - Learn how to align your family’s eating habits with biblical principles. - Gain practical tips for creating healthier meal plans. - Be inspired by stories of faith and discipline from the Bible. - Strengthen your family’s physical and spiritual health. [embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8AjMOp4Vjg[/embedyt] **Category:** Faith, Family, Health & Wellness, Bible Study **Engage with Us!** 💬 What’s one way your family practices healthy eating? Share in the comments below! 👍 If you found this video helpful, give it a thumbs up and share it with your friends and family. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon for more inspiring content on faith, family, and living a God-centered life! **Tags:** #FamilyMatters #HealthyEating #BibleStudy #ChristianFamily #FaithAndHealth #BiblicalWisdom #HealthyLiving #FamilyHealth #GodlyLiving #BibleVerses [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css="" css_animation="none"]*************************************************************************************** This video was produced by the ChristadelphianVideo.org project, arranged and supported by Christadelphians worldwide. You can follow us online at.. #1 Our Main site...                      #2 Our podcast on Spotify..      #3 Our podcast on Apple.        #4 Our podcast on Podbean   #5 Our facebook...                      #6 Our Whats App..                      #7 Our Instagram...                     #8 Our X...                                       #9 Our YouTube Channel...     #10 Our Audio site ...                 Watch/read/Listen/ subscribe to  thoughts for the day CHRISTADELPHIANVIDEO.ORG, a worldwide collaboration by Christadelphians to help promote the understanding of God's Word to those who are seeking the Truth about the Human condition and God's plan and Purpose with the Earth and Mankind upon it. #Christadelphianvideo #christadelphianstalk #Christadelphians #bibletruthfeed #openbible #Gospeltruth #gospel #Christadelphian #bibletruthfeed #podcast[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] https://christadelphianvideo.org/studyvideo/family-matters-48-healthy-family-eating-biblical-wisdom-for-nourishing-your-body-soul-%f0%9f%a5%97%f0%9f%99%8f/?feed_id=89091&_unique_id=67ee74bd2a5af