Closer To Heaven
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17 July 2025 | News from Andrews University A press release from Andrews University announced, “After a thoughtful search process, Andrews University welcomes new University Chaplain Jonathan Fetrick to the Center for Faith Engagement team. He will begin his new position when he arrives on campus at the end of July.” Read the full story […] Source: https://atoday.org/news-from-andrews-university-loma-linda-university-new-ireland-and-adra/
Why do you stop praying when things start going well? You were on your knees when it hurt.
So why go silent when it’s peaceful?
Don’t wait for trouble to talk to God.
He wants to hear from you—always. Source: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/sO37JKw8_G4
God’s love isn’t earned by perfection—it’s given in our mess, right where we are. Even when we fall short, He calls us His, reminding us that we are enough because we belong to Him. #notperfect #godslove #selfacceptance #childofgod Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SL1eUlaHhdU
At 73 years old, Ron du Preez, an Andrews University alumnus, pastor and lifelong advocate for healthy living, is walking and cycling his way across America. As part of his national campaign, Senior Strides, du Preez is traveling to all 50 U.S. … Source: https://adventist.news/news/andrews-alumnus-inspires-seniors-to-get-active
Jeff Fogelquist, North Pacific Union chief financial officer and first-time delegate at the 62nd General Conference Session, has a deep family history connected to this global gathering. He was just 10 days old when his parents, Gary and Debbie Fo… Source: https://adventist.news/news/from-newborn-to-delegate-a-family-legacy-at-gc-session
Inside Story for Friday 18th of July 2025
By Andrew McChesney
Monkeys threatened to destroy the crops of a family farm in Mozambique. António Cuchata received strict orders from his father to keep the monkeys away. However, António didn’t want to guard the farm on Sabbath. He recently had given his heart to Jesus in baptism, and he wanted to spend the Sabbath worshiping in a Seventh-day Adventist church.
What would António do? He prayed and went to church.
Vervet monkeys were a severe problem for small farmers in the coastal province where António and his family lived in southeastern Africa. The monkeys, with black faces and gray body hair, stood at 16 to 20 inches tall. Tribes of 10 to 70 monkeys raided small farms for cassava, sweet potatoes, beans, peanuts, and other crops.
Father worried that the family wouldn’t have food or income if the monkeys decimated their crops. He also didn’t approve of his son going to the Adventist church. He had raised António in another faith, and he didn’t understand why the boy wanted to worship on the seventh day, Sabbath. Father didn’t mind skipping worship services on Sunday to watch the farm, and he told António that he also should help on Saturdays.
António loved Father. He hadn’t planned to become a Seventh-day Adventist, but an Adventist cousin had studied the Bible with him. He had grown convinced that he needed to follow what he had learned, including the fourth commandment, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work” (Exodus 20:8-10, NKJV).
So, António knelt and prayed, “Dear God, please stop the monkeys from coming to our farm while I am at church.” Then he went to the Adventist church in Casa-Nova, located about 15 miles from the farm.
António wasn’t sure what to expect when he returned home. To his joy, the monkeys stayed away all day. He prayed and went to church the next Sabbath, and again the monkeys did not come near the farm. Every Sabbath while António lived at home, the monkeys avoided the farm while he worshiped at the church.
Father refused to acknowledge the miracle, but António was filled with gratitude to God. Even today, years later, he still marvels at God’s care.
“The monkeys also kept the Sabbath,” he said.
Pray for the gospel to be proclaimed in Mozambique and other countries in the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division, the recipient of this quarter’s Thirteenth Sabbath Offering.
(0)Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/25c-03-inside-story-monkeys-or-church/
by Melody Tan | 17 July 2025 | I’m writing this having waved my soon-to-be nine-years-old son goodbye. He’s off to school independently, on a public bus for the first time. Let me clarify that this was just a trial run. We are not planning for this to be the beginning of a new going-to-school […] Source: https://atoday.org/time-is-ticking/
Daily Lesson for Friday 18th of July 2025
Image © Stan Myers from GoodSalt.com
Look at how badly things started off for Moses and his people after Moses first approached Pharaoh.
“The king, thoroughly roused, suspected the Israelites of a design to revolt from his service. Disaffection was the result of idleness; he would see that no time was left them for dangerous scheming. And he at once adopted measures to tighten their bonds and crush out their independent spirit. The same day orders were issued that rendered their labor still more cruel and oppressive. The most common building material of that country was sun-dried brick; the walls of the finest edifices were made of this, and then faced with stone; and the manufacture of brick employed great numbers of the bondmen. Cut straw being intermixed with the clay, to hold it together, large quantities of straw were required for the work; the king now directed that no more straw be furnished; the laborers must find it for themselves, while the same amount of brick should be exacted.
“This order produced great distress among the Israelites throughout the land. The Egyptian taskmasters had appointed Hebrew officers to oversee the work of the people, and these officers were responsible for the labor performed by those under their charge. When the requirement of the king was put in force, the people scattered themselves throughout the land, to gather stubble instead of straw; but they found it impossible to accomplish the usual amount of labor. For this failure the Hebrew officers were cruelly beaten.”—Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 258.
Discussion Questions
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(0)Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/25c-03-further-thought-rough-start/
"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer" (Matthew 21:22, NIV).
Tag someone in need of prayer, and kindly share your prayer requests here:
https://wkf.ms/3DBuapQ Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJeKccF0vyQ
Lesson 3: Rough Start
3.5 Like God to Pharaoh
God equips those He calls – even in spite of excuses………………………………………………………………….
IntroductionThe story of Moses in Exodus 6:28–7:7 is deeply human and at the same time divinely inspired. It shows us a man called by God who wrestles with his own weaknesses, his fear of failure, and his uncertainty about whether he is truly up to the task. Moses, the great leader of Israel, was not always bold. On the contrary – he was a man full of doubts. But God didn’t respond with anger, but with grace, patience, and clear guidance.
This story challenges us to ask: Where do we avoid what God is asking of us? What excuses do we use to ignore His voice?
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Bible Study on Exodus 6:28–7:7Theme: Called Despite Weakness – When God Speaks, Excuses Don’t Count
Context and Background
This passage marks the beginning of the great liberation drama in Exodus. Israel is in bondage under Pharaoh. Moses has been called as the liberator but is filled with doubt and resistance. Even though his calling was already addressed in chapters 3 and 4, Moses continues to resist.
Verses 6:28–30 repeat what has already been said: Moses points to his “uncircumcised lips” – a Hebrew expression symbolizing inadequacy or impurity. This repetition underlines his continued insecurity.
Verse-by-Verse Explanation
Verses 6:28–30
These verses reiterate Moses’ protest: “I have uncircumcised lips.” He implies: If even Israel doesn’t listen, why would Pharaoh?
Exodus 7:1
God replies with authority: “I have made you like God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron shall be your prophet.” This highlights the structure of divine communication:
→ God → Moses → Aaron → Pharaoh.
This defines biblical prophecy: speaking God’s message, not one’s own.
Verses 2–3
God commands Moses to speak and Aaron to deliver the message. Then comes the theological tension: God will harden Pharaoh’s heart. This appears frequently in Exodus – God hardens it, and Pharaoh also hardens it himself. Both divine sovereignty and human responsibility are at play.
Verses 4–5
God’s goal is not just liberation but revelation: “Then the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD.” The ten plagues will not only be judgments but signs revealing God’s supremacy over Egypt’s false gods.
Verses 6–7
Despite all doubts, Moses and Aaron obey. Their age (Moses 80, Aaron 83) reminds us: There is no expiration date on God’s calling.
Theological InsightsGod calls despite weaknesses. Our flaws are not disqualifiers but often the space where God’s power is displayed.
God works through teamwork. Moses had Aaron. God rarely sends us out alone.
God desires obedience, not perfection. Faith is revealed in obedience, even when afraid.
Resistance is part of the journey. Pharaoh’s stubbornness was expected. Even opposition can serve God’s greater purpose.
God’s aim is His glory. Even in judgment, His name is made known.
Read also 2 Corinthians 4:7: “We have this treasure in jars of clay…” – a New Testament mirror to Moses’ calling.
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Answers to the Questions Question 1: How does God respond to Moses’ objection?God responds with patience and help. Instead of rebuking Moses for saying, “I have uncircumcised lips,” He reaffirms the mission and appoints Aaron to assist. God works with our weaknesses – not to ignore them, but to transform them. By making Moses “like God” to Pharaoh and Aaron his prophet, God institutes a prophetic model of representation and communication.
He also warns that Pharaoh won’t immediately listen – the journey will be hard, but it will glorify God and reveal His power to Egypt.
Summary:
God does not rebuke but supports.
He works through community (Aaron).
He uses even resistance for His glory.
Question 2: What excuses do we use today to avoid God’s calling?Moses’ excuses are strikingly familiar:
“I’m not good enough.”
God responds: “My power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Cor 12:9)
“They won’t listen.”
God responds: “My word will not return empty.” (Isa 55:11)
“I’m too busy.”
God responds: “Seek first the kingdom of God…” (Matt 6:33)
“Let someone else do it.”
God responds: “Go – I am sending you.” (Judges 6:14)
“I’m too hurt or broken.”
God responds: “A broken heart I will not despise.” (Psalm 51:17)
Conclusion:
Like Moses, we may run out of excuses – but never out of God’s patience.
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Spiritual PrinciplesGod calls us with our weaknesses – to display His strength.
God calls us into community – never alone.
Obedience is what God desires – not perfection.
Resistance is expected – but God remains sovereign.
God seeks glory – even through our doubts and trials.
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Practical ApplicationAre you avoiding something God is asking of you?
Maybe it’s sharing your faith, serving in church, or starting something new.
Like Moses, you don’t have to be ready – you just have to be willing.
Who is your “Aaron”? Who can encourage and support you?
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ConclusionMoses’ story shows us: God uses those who doubt and struggle – as long as they are willing to obey.
Our calling today is no less important.
God seeks willing hearts – not perfect vessels.
His strength is revealed in our weakness.
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Thought of the DayGod doesn’t need perfect tools – He needs willing hearts.
Your weakness is not the problem. It’s where His grace shines.
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Chapter 1 – Restlessness in the MorningThe morning sun was already shining through the glass roof of Chengdu’s train station as Wei, a quiet and reserved math teacher in his mid-thirties, waited for his train like every day. In his hand, a steaming cup of green tea. It was a normal day. And yet, it wasn’t.
For weeks, he had felt a pull in his heart – a stirring he couldn’t shake. Again and again, the thought came:
“Speak to Jian.”
He had ignored it. Reasoned it away. Pushed it aside.
But the thought returned – stronger than before. And worse: A dream had been haunting him.
In it, he stood alone on a vast steppe, and a voice said:
“You shall speak to Jian. I want to send him.”
Chapter 2 – The ExcusesWei had many arguments against this mission.
He lived in a country where Christian faith wasn’t forbidden, but was practiced very cautiously. He didn’t want to draw attention – and certainly not risk losing his job.
He told himself:
“I’m not the right person.”
“I’m not brave.”
“I’m not eloquent.”
“Jian doesn’t need me – he’s younger, stronger, bolder.”
But like Moses in Exodus 6, his excuses eventually ran out.
The thought wouldn’t leave.
And every time he told God, “I can’t,” the answer seemed to whisper, “I am with you.”
Chapter 3 – The Decision on Platform 3One Thursday morning, Wei stood on Platform 3, as usual.
As the train pulled in, he stepped forward almost mechanically.
Then, at the far end of the platform – Jian.
Wei froze.
The moment had come.
The doors beeped.
People pressed in.
Wei stood on the threshold – between his safe, familiar life and a step of obedience.
He stepped back.
The train left – without him.
With a trembling heart, he walked over to Jian.
“Good morning,” he said softly.
“I… I know this sounds strange. But I believe I’m supposed to tell you something.”
Chapter 4 – Words at the Right TimeWei struggled for words, but they came:
“I believe God wants you to do something. To take a step. And He wants me to tell you: You are ready.”
Jian fell silent. Tears welled in his eyes. After a long pause, he said:
“Last night, I prayed. I said, ‘God, I know I should speak for you – in front of my students, in front of my family. But I’m so afraid. Please send me a sign.’
And now you’re here.”
Wei was overwhelmed.
He had simply obeyed. No great speech. No miracle. Just a quiet word in faith.
And it was exactly what was needed.
Chapter 5 – Small Steps, Big ImpactIn the weeks that followed, Jian began to change.
He became more open, spoke boldly about his faith.
Soon, he was asked to lead a student group – and he said yes.
What began small grew: the group became a small house church.
Young people came to faith. Bibles were shared. Hearts were touched.
And Jian often said:
“I was like Moses – full of doubt.
But God sent me an Aaron: a quiet math teacher with the courage to obey.”
Chapter 6 – The Burning EverydayWei returned to his everyday life.
He didn’t become an evangelist or preacher – he remained a teacher.
But something had changed.
He now knew:
God uses quiet people. Doubters. The hesitant.
Sometimes, there is no grand plan.
Just obedience at the right moment.
Chapter 7 – What RemainsYears later, Wei saw a post from Jian on a Christian network:
“Five years ago, a quiet man spoke God’s word to me on a platform in Chengdu. Today, I lead a small church by God’s grace. It all began with one sentence.
Whoever you are – thank you.”
Wei smiled quietly.
He remembered the voice, the dream, the station.
And he knew:
God still speaks.
And if we listen – we may walk.
Story ConclusionJust as God used Moses despite his weakness, He used Wei – a quiet teacher in Asia.
This story reminds us that God works in every culture, every land, and every daily life.
He doesn’t need perfect people – He seeks listening hearts and obedient steps.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-rough-start-3-5-like-god-to-pharaoh-exodus-living-faith/
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