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7.07.2024 – Habakkuk Chapter 3 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS

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July 7, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Habakkuk Chapter 3
1 A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet upon Shigionoth.
2 O Lord, I have heard thy speech, and was afraid: O Lord, revive thy work in the midst of the years, in the midst of the years make known; in wrath remember mercy.
3 God came from Teman, and the Holy One from mount Paran. Selah. His glory covered the heavens, and the earth was full of his praise.
4 And his brightness was as the light; he had horns coming out of his hand: and there was the hiding of his power.
5 Before him went the pestilence, and burning coals went forth at his feet.
6 He stood, and measured the earth: he beheld, and drove asunder the nations; and the everlasting mountains were scattered, the perpetual hills did bow: his ways are everlasting.
7 I saw the tents of Cushan in affliction: and the curtains of the land of Midian did tremble.
8 Was the Lord displeased against the rivers? was thine anger against the rivers? was thy wrath against the sea, that thou didst ride upon thine horses and thy chariots of salvation?
9 Thy bow was made quite naked, according to the oaths of the tribes, even thy word. Selah. Thou didst cleave the earth with rivers.
10 The mountains saw thee, and they trembled: the overflowing of the water passed by: the deep uttered his voice, and lifted up his hands on high.
11 The sun and moon stood still in their habitation: at the light of thine arrows they went, and at the shining of thy glittering spear.
12 Thou didst march through the land in indignation, thou didst thresh the heathen in anger.
13 Thou wentest forth for the salvation of thy people, even for salvation with thine anointed; thou woundedst the head out of the house of the wicked, by discovering the foundation unto the neck. Selah.
14 Thou didst strike through with his staves the head of his villages: they came out as a whirlwind to scatter me: their rejoicing was as to devour the poor secretly.
15 Thou didst walk through the sea with thine horses, through the heap of great waters.
16 When I heard, my belly trembled; my lips quivered at the voice: rottenness entered into my bones, and I trembled in myself, that I might rest in the day of trouble: when he cometh up unto the people, he will invade them with his troops.
17 Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls:
18 Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.
19 The Lord God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer on my stringed instruments.
King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary
Introduction:
Habakkuk 3 is a powerful and poetic psalm of the prophet, representing a prayer and praise to God. It is a response to the divine revelations and answers that Habakkuk received in the previous chapters. This psalm expresses both awe at God’s power and trust in His mercy and justice.
Verses 1-2: A Prayer for Renewal
Habakkuk begins with a prayer acknowledging God’s power and wonders. He asks God to make His work known in the midst of the years and to show mercy in times of distress. This demonstrates the prophet’s trust in God’s ability to bring both judgment and grace.
Verses 3-7: A Vision of God’s Glory
In these verses, Habakkuk describes a majestic vision of God’s appearance. God comes from Mount Paran, surrounded by light and rays that reveal His power. Pestilence and plague go before Him, and the earth quakes at His presence. These powerful images emphasize God’s overwhelming power over nature and nations.
Verses 8-15: God’s Intervention in History
Habakkuk recalls God’s mighty deeds in history, especially the deliverance of Israel. He describes God’s wrath over the waters and His riding on horses, indicating His control over the elements and His ability to fight for His people. Nature responds to God’s presence, and the heathens are shattered. These passages highlight that God actively intervenes in history to save His people and bring justice.
Verses 16-19: Trust and Joy Amidst Troubles
Habakkuk concludes with a personal reflection on his response to God’s revelation. Though he is gripped by fear and trembling, he chooses to wait quietly until the time of distress passes. He acknowledges that there will be times when the harvest fails and the flocks disappear, yet despite these adversities, he will rejoice in the Lord and exult in God, his salvation. He affirms his trust in God’s strength and His ability to carry him through difficult times, comparable to a deer that leaps securely over the heights.
Conclusion:
Habakkuk 3 is a moving example of deep trust and faith in God, even in the face of great difficulties and uncertainties. The prophet shows us how to acknowledge God’s power and justice while hoping for His mercy. Habakkuk’s praise and trust in God serve as inspiration and encouragement for all believers to rely on God during tough times and to find joy in His presence.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 45: The Foreshadowing of the Cross
This chapter is based on Matthew 16:13-28; Mark 8:27-38; Luke 9:18-27.
Read online here

 

Commentary
Introduction:
This chapter deals with the profound preparation and awareness of Jesus regarding his impending suffering and death. Based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, it highlights Jesus’ foreknowledge of his path to the cross and his dedication to fulfilling God’s will.
Jesus’ Awareness of His Suffering:
Jesus was fully aware of the pain and agony that awaited him. Even before his incarnation, he had foreseen the entire path of suffering. Despite knowing the impending torments, insults, and deprivations, he chose to walk this path out of love for humanity. His willingness to fulfill God’s will demonstrates his deep dedication and obedience to the Father.
The Significance of the Cross:
The cross is a central symbol in this chapter. Jesus saw it not only as an instrument of his suffering but also as a means of redeeming humanity. Despite the impending pain, he was encouraged by the prospect of human salvation. His suffering and death were meant to bring people back to faithfulness to God.
Preparation of the Disciples:
Jesus prepared his disciples for the upcoming events. He knew they would witness his crucifixion and death and wanted to strengthen them. In a city near Caesarea Philippi, far from the influence of the Jews, he spoke with them about their faith and reaffirmed their conviction that he was the Messiah.
Peter’s Confession:
Peter confessed that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the living God. Jesus praised him for this and explained that this revelation did not come from human wisdom but through divine inspiration. This recognition formed the foundation of the disciples’ faith and the future Church.
The Announcement of Jesus’ Suffering:
For the first time, Jesus spoke openly about his impending suffering and death. This announcement deeply shocked the disciples, as they were still hoping for an earthly kingdom. Peter’s attempt to dissuade Jesus was sharply rebuked by Jesus, as he misunderstood the divine mission.
The Concept of Self-Denial:
Jesus explained to his disciples the necessity of self-denial and taking up the cross. This meant denying one’s own self and being willing to endure suffering for the sake of Christ. This message was and still is a central teaching of the Christian faith.
Encouragement through the Promise:
Jesus encouraged his disciples with the promise of his coming kingdom in glory. Although they did not fully grasp the depth of his words, he gave them hope that they would ultimately see his glory.
Conclusion:
Chapter 45 shows the profound preparation and awareness of Jesus regarding his suffering and his dedication to fulfilling God’s will. It emphasizes the necessity of self-denial and taking up the cross for every follower of Christ. The disciples were prepared for the coming trials while Jesus simultaneously encouraged them with the hope of his ultimate glory. These teachings remain relevant today and inspire believers to remain steadfast in their faith and follow Jesus.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 46: He Was Transfigured
This chapter is based on Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9:28-36.
Read online here

 

Commentary
Introduction:
Chapter 46 describes the Transfiguration of Jesus, based on accounts from the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. This episode reveals a significant disclosure of Jesus’ divine nature and provides the disciples with a brief glimpse of heavenly glory.
The Ascent on the Mountain:
Jesus takes Peter, James, and John with him to a secluded mountain. Although they are exhausted, the disciples follow their Master into the evening hours. The darkness enveloping the mountain symbolizes the sorrow and trials that Jesus and his disciples will soon face.
Jesus’ Prayer:
Jesus moves a short distance from the disciples to bring his concerns and needs before the heavenly Father in prayer. He asks for strength to endure the forthcoming suffering and for a revelation of his glory to strengthen the disciples’ faith. Despite their efforts to stay awake, the disciples are overcome with fatigue and fall asleep.
The Transfiguration:
While Jesus prays, the heavens open, and a holy radiance envelops him. The divine within him shines through his human form, and his appearance becomes as bright as the sun. Moses and Elijah appear and converse with Jesus about his impending death in Jerusalem.
Significance of Moses and Elijah:
Moses represents those who will be resurrected at Christ’s return, while Elijah represents those who will be transformed without experiencing death at Christ’s return. Their presence confirms Jesus’ divinity and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.
The Disciples’ Reaction:
The disciples awaken and are overwhelmed by the heavenly glory. In his enthusiasm, Peter suggests building three shelters to preserve this moment. However, the significance of the Transfiguration lies not in earthly reign but in the confirmation of Jesus’ divine mission, which must pass through the cross.
God’s Voice:
A bright cloud overshadows them, and God’s voice declares, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” The disciples fall to the ground in fear until Jesus calms them and helps them up. This experience strengthens their faith and gives them a deeper understanding of Jesus’ identity and mission.
Conclusion:
The Transfiguration is a significant revelation of Jesus’ divine nature and serves to strengthen the disciples’ faith and prepare them for the upcoming sufferings. It shows that Jesus is indeed the Messiah foretold by the prophets and that his suffering and death are part of the divine plan of redemption. The Transfiguration gives the disciples a foretaste of future glory and confirms that Jesus is the Son of God, whom they are to follow.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/7-07-2024-habakkuk-chapter-3-believe-his-prophets/

Sold Out

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No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Matthew 6:24.

So gradual was Solomon’s apostasy that before he was aware of it, he had wandered far from God. Almost imperceptibly he began to trust less and less in divine guidance and blessing, and to put confidence in his own strength….

Engrossed in an overmastering desire to surpass other nations in outward display, the king overlooked the need of acquiring beauty and perfection of character. In seeking to glorify himself before the world, he sold his honor and integrity….

The conscientious, considerate spirit that had marked his dealings with the people during the early part of his reign, was now changed. From the wisest and most merciful of rulers, he degenerated into a tyrant. Once the compassionate, God-fearing guardian of the people, he became oppressive and despotic.15Prophets and Kings, 55, 56.

Men who have the use of money are to learn a lesson from the history of Solomon. Those who have a competence are in continual danger of thinking that money and position will ensure them respect, and they need not be so particular. But self-exaltation is but a bubble. By misusing the talents given him, Solomon apostatized from God. When God gives men prosperity, they are to beware of following the imaginations of their own hearts, lest they endanger the simplicity of their faith and deteriorate in religious experience.16Manuscript 40, 1898.

The lesson for us to learn from the history of this perverted life is the necessity of continual dependence upon the counsels of God; to carefully watch the tendency of our course, and to reform every habit calculated to draw us from God. It teaches us that great caution, watchfulness, and prayer are needed to keep undefiled the simplicity and purity of our faith. If we would rise to the highest moral excellence, and attain to the perfection of religious character, what discrimination should be used in the formation of friendships, and the choice of a companion for life! 17The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 2:1031.
Conflict and Courage p. 193
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Prayer Requests
—-Please pray for Brenda who has some cracked vertebrae and is having tests to see what the next treatment should be. Rose
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Dear Friends,

When my children were small, we lived in North Carolina. One spring day we noticed that some birds were building a nest in the decorative trim on the front of our house. It was an ideal place where the parent birds were sure that their little babies would not fall out of the nest. We welcomed them as a learning experience for the children as the nest was low enough that we could lift them up and they could look at the eggs.

Soon the babies hatched, and from inside the trailer we could hear their cheeps every time the parent bird came with a bug or a worm for them to eat. As they grew larger, the cheeps became louder, but it did not bother us. We would sneak outside when both parents were gone hunting for food and look at the baby birds.

One day, as I sat down on the sofa that was against the wall that was directly behind the bird’s nest, I noticed some tiny insects swarming on the back of the sofa. I suddenly realized that these were bird mites. I checked the wall and it also was covered with mites. I was horrified! Suddenly the thought of having those birds so close was not pleasant. I wanted those mites out of my house.

I immediately went to the store and bought some spray that could be used to rid pet birds of mites. I sprayed the sofa, the wall, and the baby birds. That helped, but since I could not spray the parent birds, the problem soon returned. Finally, the only thing that could be done was to get rid of the nest.

It is that way in life. How many times we watch TV programs or read material that fill our minds with wrong thoughts. How often we enjoy listening to music that leads us away from Christ. Soon we become infested with the “mites” of this world. We find that we have become like those about whom Paul speaks, “Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.” Titus 1:15

We become alarmed at our condition and try to change, but we cannot. The allurement of the music or of the program or story pulls us in once again and we find that we are held fast in the devil’s snare.

How much we need the help of the One Who “was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” Heb 4:15 How much we need His cleansing power! Our prayer must be, “Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. Behold, I was shapen in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me. Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.” Ps 51:1-13

Praise God! He will answer that prayer of faith. He promises, “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.” Exe 36:26,27

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Phil 4:8

Rose

Source: https://rosesdevotional.org/sold-out-2.html

The Book of Mark – Lesson 2.A Day in the Ministry of Jesus | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series THE BOOK OF MARK with Pastor Mark Finley  |
Lesson 2.A Day in the Ministry of Jesus  |
Calling, Teaching, Healing, and Prayer
Lesson 2 examines a day in the life of Jesus as described in the first chapter of the Gospel of Mark. We see Jesus calling his first disciples, teaching in the synagogue, casting out demons, and healing the sick. These events showcase his divine authority, compassion, and willingness to help those on the margins of society. Jesus’ prayer life is also highlighted, emphasizing the importance of spiritual strength. Overall, this lesson provides a comprehensive insight into Jesus’ multifaceted ministry and its transformative impact on the people around him.
Memory Text: Mark 1,17 – “Then Jesus said to them, ‘Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men’.”
Content:
2.1 “Follow Me”
The Call to Discipleship: The First Disciples and Their Immediate Response
In Mark 1:16–20, Jesus calls his first disciples, the fishermen Simon and Andrew, as well as the brothers James and John, to follow him. These men respond immediately, leaving everything behind to follow Jesus. The Gospel of John offers more context, suggesting that these men had already been prepared for Jesus by John the Baptist, explaining their quick response. However, Mark emphasizes Jesus’ authority in his call: a simple “Follow me” is enough to compel the fishermen to abandon their previous lives and embark on a new path. This immediate reaction highlights the transformative power of Jesus and the disciples’ readiness to follow this power.
2.2 An Unforgettable Worship Service
Jesus’ Power Revealed: An Unforgettable Sabbath in Capernaum
In Mark 1:21–28, the people in the synagogue of Capernaum witness an unforgettable event when Jesus casts out a demon. The demon recognizes Jesus as the “Holy One of God,” affirming Jesus’ divine authority. This scene illustrates the contrast between the holy and the unholy and the reality of spiritual warfare. Jesus’ command for the demon to be silent, known as the “messianic secret,” emphasizes the political and spiritual significance of his identity. Ultimately, this account demonstrates Jesus’ undeniable power and authority, challenging people to respond to his message.
2.3 More Sabbath Ministry
Healing and Service: Jesus’ Help for Peter’s Family
In Mark 1:29–34, Jesus helps Peter’s family by healing his sick mother-in-law. She immediately recovers and begins to serve those present, demonstrating that healing and service are inseparably connected. Later, after sunset, many people flock to Peter’s house to be healed by Jesus. This scene highlights Jesus’ boundless compassion and willingness to help people, regardless of the time of day. The account teaches us that true healing through Jesus encompasses not only physical recovery but also the readiness and ability to serve others.
2.4 The Secret of Jesus’ Ministry
Prayer as a Source of Strength: Jesus’ Withdrawal and Focus in Ministry
In Mark 1:35–39, we see Jesus rising early in the morning to find a secluded place to pray. This emphasizes the importance of prayer in his life and ministry. Jesus’ continuous prayer shows that his strength and guidance came from his close relationship with God. His disciples found him and wanted him to continue healing people, but Jesus emphasized that his mission was to preach the gospel in other towns as well. This passage teaches us the necessity of regularly withdrawing to gain strength through prayer and reminds us to keep in mind the broader mission God has given us.
2.5 Can You Keep a Secret?
Compassion and Healing: Jesus’ Approach to the Outcast
In Mark 1:40–45, Jesus encounters a leper who asks for healing. Jesus shows compassion by touching the man, resulting in his healing. This action underscores Jesus’ willingness to reach out to the outcast and break their isolation. He instructs the healed man to tell no one and instead go to the priest to fulfill the Mosaic requirements. This episode shows that Jesus respects the Mosaic law while simultaneously demonstrating his healing and cleansing power over traditional purity laws. The healed man spreads the news anyway, complicating Jesus’ ministry but further revealing his authority and mercy.
2.6 Summary
A Day in the Life of Jesus: Calling, Teaching, Healing, and Prayer
Mark 1 describes a day in Jesus’ ministry, highlighting his calling of disciples, teaching in the synagogue, casting out demons, and healing the sick. Jesus’ call to the fishermen to follow him demonstrates his authority and their immediate willingness. In Capernaum, he reveals his power by casting out a demon, leaving the people deeply impressed. His early morning prayer underscores the importance of spiritual strength. Finally, Jesus shows compassion by healing a leper and breaking social barriers while respecting the Mosaic laws. These events illustrate Jesus’ comprehensive ministry, combining teaching, healing, and spiritual authority.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-book-of-mark-lesson-2-a-day-in-the-ministry-of-jesus-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Sunday: “Follow Me”

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Daily Lesson for Sunday 7th of July 2024

Read Mark 1:16-20. Who were the men Jesus called as disciples, and what was their response?

Mark 1:1-45 does not have many of Jesus’ words recorded. However, Mark 1:17 does have His words to two fishermen, Simon, who will later be called “Peter,” and his brother, Andrew. The two men are standing on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, casting a net.

Jesus Calling Peter and Andrew

Image © Pacific Press at Goodsalt.com

There is no mention of a boat or other fishing paraphernalia, which may suggest that the two men are not well off financially. In Mark 1:19-20, James and John are in a boat with their father and servants, which suggests that they were better off financially than Peter and Andrew. Luke indicates that Peter does have a boat and that, in fact, James and John were partners of Peter and Andrew (see Luke 5:1-11). But the Gospel of Mark may be presenting a contrast between the two sets of brothers, and in order to illustrate that difference, Jesus calls to discipleship both those who have less resources and those with more.

Jesus’ call to these men is simple, direct, and prophetic. He calls them to follow Him—that is, to become His disciples. He indicates that if they will respond to His call, He will take on the task of making them fishers of men.

Ponder why these men would immediately (Mark 1:16-20) leave everything and follow Jesus.

The Gospel of John fills in the picture more fully (see John 1:29-42). It seems that the brothers were followers of John the Baptist and heard his proclamation that Jesus was “ ‘the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world’ ” (John 1:29, ESV). They met Jesus and spent time with Him near the Jordan River. Consequently, their acceptance of Jesus’ call to ministry was not some lark or escapade. They had thought this through.

But why does Mark not fill in more details? Likely, it is to emphasize the power of Jesus. He calls, and willing fishermen answer, and their lives, and the world itself, are never the same.

What have you been called to give up in order to follow Jesus? (Think about the implications of your answer, especially if you can’t think of anything.)

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The post Sunday: “Follow Me” appeared first on Sabbath School Net.

Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/24c-02-follow-me/

Standing Firm in Faith: Michael’s Second Encounter with Possession

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Michael encounters another possessed man, this time more prepared. Guided by Pastor Kent's advice, he uses prayer and biblical teachings to navigate this spiritual challenge, showcasing the power of faith and knowledge with AWR360°
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