What this blog is about and what I hope it does...

I hope this will be a simple fun tool for us to grow in our understanding and surrender to God through the Bible as we connect over the web. Reading the Bible is both simple and difficult. What could be easier than opening a book and reading? Yet we've all done that and wondered what sections of the Bible mean? What's with the book of Leviticus? What is Revelation really about? Is the Song of Songs about marital love or is it supposed to be more 'spiritual' than that?

So, my intent is for this blog to be a tool that helps us in our faith. A forum for better understanding. An honest place of sharing that nurtures us as we follow Jesus together.

(There are a few resources I have included under "PAGES" that may be a helpful start, especially to those newer to reading the Bible. It's located just below this and to the right. Also included is a READING OUTLINE. If you miss a day, go on to the next rather than trying to catch up.)

ONE LAST NOTE: you don't have to join or set up an account to share comments. Just click 'comment' at the bottom of a post, click the drop down and click 'anonymous.' Then write your post and if you want sign it with your first name and finish by clicking 'Post comment.' I would love to hear your thoughts.

2.14.2011

Hebrews 4:1-10

For NIV reading click here

Drawing once again on the Old testament, we read here about spiritual rest by reflecting on the wilderness generation (Exodus-Numbers) as they marched to their new land of rest, Canaan. The invitation is still open to all who in faith and faithfulness live for God...but there is an element of fear involved. The author is pointing at the generation that because of disobedience did not get to enter their rest (Canaan) - and that should serve as a warning that the same can happen to us. So, the spiritual discipline of listening to the Lord is crucial. This doesn't mean we should walk around in anxiety wondering about our future with God. It does mean, we should not treat it too casually.

Ultimately, spiritual rest is not a this-world kind of thing, though we can receive the promise of its inheritance. So, the author says, quoting Psalm 95, 'repent' (turn toward God) and anticipate the rest with God promised to you.

Other thoughts/questions...

2 comments:

  1. I love it when when someone says that the Holy Bible is just an ancient text full of myths and fairy tales that is in no way relevant in today's modern world. The verse "Taste and see" would be quite relevant here. In other words, keep chasing after the world and it's lies (money, fame, toys, etc) and work yourself to death, all the while worrying about how much is enough and how to keep all your treasures safe, or give your life to JESUS, step out on the water, hold on tight and learn how trustworthy and faithful the LORD is.

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  2. I find it interesting that if you compare translations, v. 1 reads "Therefore, let us FEAR that none should be found to have fallen short..." (same word that leads us to phobia). NIV simply has 'be careful.' Clearly, the author thinks we treat God's invitations to His blessings like rest far to casually. And, we underestimate our capability to be disobedient. No doubt the wilderness generation was not consciously choosing to be disobedient. So, lets help each other keep our hearts from hardening (in Greek, 'becoming stubborn'). It would be fruitful to consider very specifically how we might do this as local churches.

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