Closer To Heaven
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Join the Hit the Mark panel as they discuss Sabbath School Lesson 2 – The Burning Bush. It’s the fastest hour of the week!
(0)Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/the-burning-bush-hit-the-mark-sabbath-school/
On July 9, 2025, during the 62nd General Conference (GC) Session in St. Louis, Missouri, delegates elected associate directors to serve in various departments of the Seventh-day Adventist Church for the 2025–2030 quinquennium. Working under their … Source: https://adventist.news/news/general-conference-elects-associate-directors-and-gcas-team-to-support-global-church-ministries
Day six of business sessions for the 2025 General Conference Session has concluded with reports from various departments across the GC, including the Bible Research Institute and the Three Angels’ Messages Committee. Here is the lineup of today’s… Source: https://adventist.news/news/newly-elected-church-officers-continue-to-speak-with-the-press
Lesson 2: The Burning Bush
2.5 The Circumcision
Obedience Under the Covenant – The Serious Lesson of Circumcision………………………………………………………………….
IntroductionSometimes we stumble upon passages in the Bible that confuse us, even shake us to the core. Exodus 4:18–31 is one such section. Moses—just called to lead Israel out of Egypt—is suddenly in mortal danger, not from Pharaoh, but from God Himself.
Why?
Because Moses had neglected a duty God considered fundamental: the circumcision of his son—a sign of the covenant.
This dramatic scene leads us to an uncomfortable yet lifesaving truth: obedience is no trivial matter.
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Bible Study:“God’s Serious Warning on the Way – Moses, the Covenant, and the Forgotten Duty”
(Exodus 4:18–31)
1. Context: Between Calling and Obedience
What happened?
Moses had spent forty years in exile in Midian. He left behind his past as an Egyptian prince and adopted a simple shepherd’s life. Then—at the burning bush—God appeared to him (Exodus 3). God called him back to Egypt to free Israel. After long hesitation, Moses obeys at last (4:18). He departs Midian with his family and sets out on the journey.
But on the way, something unexpected occurs:
“At a lodging place on the way the LORD met him and sought to kill him.” (v. 24)
2. The Shocking Scene (vv. 24–26)These few verses are mysterious and dramatic. God—the one who called Moses—now seeks to kill him? Why?
The answer lies in Moses’s failure: he had not circumcised one of his sons, contrary to God’s command (cf. Genesis 17:10–14).
3. The Meaning of Circumcision➤ What is circumcision?
A sign of the covenant between God and Abraham (Genesis 17). Every male child was to be circumcised on the eighth day. It symbolized separation for God, putting off the flesh, and belonging to God’s people. For an Israelite, remaining uncircumcised was unthinkable. To reject the sign was to place oneself outside the covenant (Genesis 17:14).
4. Why Is Moses Guilty—and in Mortal Danger?Moses knew better. He was a Hebrew and understood God’s order. As Israel’s future leader, he was to be a model of obedience. Yet here was a glaring gap in his life: his son remained uncircumcised. He knew God’s will but did not act on it. Whatever the reasons (perhaps Zippora’s resistance? cultural differences?), Moses had neglected a holy duty.
To God, authority is bound up with obedience. A leader who is disobedient in small matters jeopardizes his calling in big ones.
5. Zippora’s Role – Courage in Crisis (v. 25)Zippora acts swiftly and decisively:
“Then Zipporah took a flint and cut off her son’s foreskin and touched Moses’ feet with it and said, ‘Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me!’”
She performs the circumcision—an act Moses himself had neglected. She perceives that her husband’s life is at stake. She acts not merely with cultural boldness but with spiritual insight.
Her phrase “bridegroom of blood” points to the urgent deliverance by a blood-sign—a foreshadowing of the New Covenant.
6. Spiritual Principles from This Passage
a) God tolerates no deliberate disobedience in His servants
Moses was no ordinary man—he was Israel’s appointed deliverer. Those who lead others in God’s ways must themselves walk in those ways. Responsibility carries a demand for holiness.
b) Disobedience undermines spiritual authority
Had Moses arrived in Egypt with an uncircumcised son, he would have broken God’s law while calling Pharaoh to repentance. Spiritual integrity is the foundation of authority.
c) Sin is not only what we do but also what we omit
“Whoever knows what is right and fails to do it, for him it is sin” (James 4:17). Moses did no evil, but he failed to do what was good—and that was enough.
d) God’s grace does not exempt us from God’s discipline
God loved Moses, but He warned him forcefully—so that Moses would not lose what he had received.
7. Application for Our Lives Today
a) Where are your “uncut places”?
Are there areas in your life you consciously avoid? A decision you always postpone? A sin you “peacefully coexist” with? A responsibility you delegate to others?
b) Spiritual calling requires spiritual order
You cannot undertake spiritual leadership if you harbor disorder in your personal life.
c) Zippora – a model of courageous intercession
She did what was right—even when it was difficult. Sometimes we must stand and act for others where they fail.
d) God often speaks through interruptions
The lodging place was not holy ground. Yet God intervened there. Perhaps the interruption in your daily routine is a sign:
“Look—something is out of order.”
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Answers to the Questions
Question 1: How should we understand this account—and what do we learn from it?This account is not cruel but solemn. It reveals: God regards obedience as extremely important—not arbitrarily, but because disobedience has spiritual consequences for us and for others, especially those in leadership. Moses could not be God’s instrument while ignoring a known duty. His neglect would have excluded his son from the covenant blessings—and negatively impacted the whole people. Zippora acted with courage and decisiveness. Though she may have had cultural reservations about circumcision, she acted in love and saved her husband.
Lesson: Whoever desires to be used by God must be ready to do the unpleasant right thing—immediately. God tolerates no half-hearted obedience.
Question 2: What does it mean for you if you neglect something you ought to do?This story speaks directly to us:
What is the “uncut place” in your life? What do you already know but keep putting off? Perhaps an unreconciled relationship. Perhaps a call of God you’ve ignored. Or a truth you suppress.
God’s patience is great—but there are moments when He stops us—not to destroy us, but to save us. What must you—perhaps today—set right?
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Spiritual Principles
God takes the covenant seriously. What may seem “minor neglect” to us can be weighty in light of eternity. Disobedience endangers calling—not because God despises us, but because our attitude hinders His presence. God uses courageous people. Zippora was no prophet, but her action preserved a prophetic story. Grace comes through obedience. Grace is shown not in bypassing obedience but in the saving intervention when we repent.
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Application for Daily LifeExamine your heart. Are there things you know but do not do?
Give the Holy Spirit room. He reveals the points God wants to address now.
Act immediately. Delay is often disguised disobedience.
Honor God even in “small things.” True devotion shows itself in the details.
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ConclusionExodus 4:18–31 is not merely a historical account. It is an urgent warning: obedience is life. And: God does not seek perfect people but determined hearts ready to correct their faults—at once.
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Thought of the Day“It is not what you know that changes your life—but what you do despite what you know.”
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Illustration – “The Forgotten Letter – When God Stopped Him” Story:
Place: Hamburg, Germany
Time: Spring 2024
Main Characters:
Jonathan Berger, 43, pastor, married, two children
Leonie Berger, his wife
Jonas, their ten-year-old son
God, who speaks—quietly yet piercingly
The StoryJonathan stood at the pulpit preaching about calling, about Moses and the burning bush. His voice was calm, his sentences clear. Yet inside he felt a chill he could not name—only feel: something was wrong.
After the service people patted him on the back, praising the depth of his exposition. But Jonathan felt empty, as if he had spoken words without life.
The LetterOn Monday he took time to tidy up. Among papers, drafts of the church newsletter, and old notes, he found a yellowed envelope with no return address—only his name in handwriting he recognized at once. His father’s.
He had received it years ago and never opened it. His father had left when Jonathan was eight. Since then, no contact—only this one letter, unread. He picked up the envelope, felt his fingers tremble, and tore it open.
“Dear Jonathan,
I don’t know if you’ll ever read this, but I’m writing because I know I hurt you. I can’t undo the past. But I wish to see you once more.
Your father,
Martin”
He read the lines three times, then laid the letter on the table and sat down. Tears came—not dramatic ones, just quiet drops that found their way over the years.
The NightThat night Jonathan couldn’t sleep. He tossed, rose, wandered to the kitchen, sat in the dark hallway. His heart pounded—not with fear but with realization. God did not speak loudly, but clearly. He remembered Exodus 4—how Moses almost died for neglecting a direct command. Jonathan had preached, taught, counseled—but not forgiven his father, not truly.
God would not let him pass by.
The CallAt 3:17 a.m. he picked up his phone, scrolled to his father’s number—still there, always there, always swiped past. He hesitated, then took a deep breath and tapped “Call.” Twice. Three times. Silence. Then a click.
“Hello?” The voice was older, shaky—but unmistakable.
Jonathan swallowed. “It’s… Jonathan.”
Silence, then: “You really called? I kept hoping…”
The next minutes were no polished exchange but honest, real—an unending beginning.
The Quiet ReconciliationBy morning Jonathan sat on the living room floor, Bible open before him. He hadn’t slept much but was wide awake inside. Leonie entered quietly, saw him, asked nothing but understood from his eyes.
“You called him?” she whispered.
He nodded. Tears came again—not of pain but of a gentle, quiet redemption. Leonie sat beside him, said nothing, laid her hand on his shoulder. In that moment there was no music, no heavenly light—only peace, deep peace. Jonathan knew he had not remained stuck. God had stopped him—but only so he could start anew.
Spiritual MeaningThis story stands for many who know God’s will but close parts of their hearts—not out of rebellion but out of pain. Yet disobedience can be silence, suppression can be rebellion. God does not stop us to hold us back but to heal us.
ConclusionGod seeks not perfect people but honest, open, obedient hearts. Jonathan had not failed because he hesitated—he would have failed if he had not responded.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-2-the-burning-bush-2-5-the-circumcision-exodus-living-faith/
July 10, 2025
DAILY BIBLE READING
Exodus 35 – With a Willing Heart for God’s Work
God’s Commission – Our Contribution: Sabbath Rest, Voluntary Offering, and the Call to Participate in God’s Holy Work══════════════════════════════════════════════
Bible Text – Exodus 35 (KJV)1 And Moses gathered all the congregation of the children of Israel together, and said unto them, These are the words which the Lord hath commanded, that ye should do them.
2 Six days shall work be done, but on the seventh day there shall be to you an holy day, a sabbath of rest to the Lord: whosoever doeth work therein shall be put to death.
3 Ye shall kindle no fire throughout your habitations upon the sabbath day.
4 And Moses spake unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, saying, This is the thing which the Lord commanded, saying,
5 Take ye from among you an offering unto the Lord: whosoever is of a willing heart, let him bring it, an offering of the Lord; gold, and silver, and brass,
6 And blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats’ hair,
7 And rams’ skins dyed red, and badgers’ skins, and shittim wood,
8 And oil for the light, and spices for anointing oil, and for the sweet incense,
9 And onyx stones, and stones to be set for the ephod, and for the breastplate.
10 And every wise hearted among you shall come, and make all that the Lord hath commanded;
11 The tabernacle, his tent, and his covering, his taches, and his boards, his bars, his pillars, and his sockets,
12 The ark, and the staves thereof, with the mercy seat, and the vail of the covering,
13 The table, and his staves, and all his vessels, and the shewbread,
14 The candlestick also for the light, and his furniture, and his lamps, with the oil for the light,
15 And the incense altar, and his staves, and the anointing oil, and the sweet incense, and the hanging for the door at the entering in of the tabernacle,
16 The altar of burnt offering, with his brasen grate, his staves, and all his vessels, the laver and his foot,
17 The hangings of the court, his pillars, and their sockets, and the hanging for the door of the court,
18 The pins of the tabernacle, and the pins of the court, and their cords,
19 The cloths of service, to do service in the holy place, the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest’s office.
20 And all the congregation of the children of Israel departed from the presence of Moses.
21 And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the Lord’s offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all his service, and for the holy garments.
22 And they came, both men and women, as many as were willing hearted, and brought bracelets, and earrings, and rings, and tablets, all jewels of gold: and every man that offered offered an offering of gold unto the Lord.
23 And every man, with whom was found blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats’ hair, and red skins of rams, and badgers’ skins, brought them.
24 Every one that did offer an offering of silver and brass brought the Lord’s offering: and every man, with whom was found shittim wood for any work of the service, brought it.
25 And all the women that were wise hearted did spin with their hands, and brought that which they had spun, both of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine linen.
26 And all the women whose heart stirred them up in wisdom spun goats’ hair.
27 And the rulers brought onyx stones, and stones to be set, for the ephod, and for the breastplate;
28 And spice, and oil for the light, and for the anointing oil, and for the sweet incense.
29 The children of Israel brought a willing offering unto the Lord, every man and woman, whose heart made them willing to bring for all manner of work, which the Lord had commanded to be made by the hand of Moses.
30 And Moses said unto the children of Israel, See, the Lord hath called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah;
31 And he hath filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship;
32 And to devise curious works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass,
33 And in the cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of wood, to make any manner of cunning work.
34 And he hath put in his heart that he may teach, both he, and Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan.
35 Them hath he filled with wisdom of heart, to work all manner of work, of the engraver, and of the cunning workman, and of the embroiderer, in blue, and in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen, and of the weaver, even of them that do any work, and of those that devise cunning work.
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IntroductionIn Exodus 35 we find ourselves at a decisive stage of the wilderness journey. After the sin of the golden calf, God again calls His people to order, to worship, and to collaboration. Moses gives instructions for how the Tabernacle—the Tent of Meeting—must be constructed. It is striking how much emphasis is placed on the heart of the people here: “whoever is willing,” “whoever has a willing mind,” may build, carry, and serve.
This passage reveals a beautiful connection between rest (Sabbath), obedience, creative gifting, and shared responsibility. It’s about more than craftsmanship—it’s about heartfelt devotion.
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Commentary
1. Sanctifying the Sabbath (vv. 1–3)Right at the outset, the Sabbath command is reiterated. The Sabbath is a sign of our relationship with God. Anyone who desecrates it stands against the Creator. No fire, no work—it’s a day of rest. Before any work can begin, there must be obedience and worship.
✦ Spiritual insight: True participation begins with alignment—not busyness, but listening to God.
2. Voluntary Gifts for the Sanctuary (vv. 4–29)Moses calls the entire community to bring freewill offerings for constructing the Tabernacle—gifts given from the heart, not from obligation. Gold, silver, gemstones, fabrics, wood, oil—all are needed. It’s remarkable how varied the contributions are: the wealthy give precious metals; women spin yarn; the leaders bring in stones. Everyone gives according to their ability.
✦ Core message: God desires a willing heart, not a coerced gift (cf. 2 Corinthians 9:7).
✦ Unity in diversity: men, women, rich, poor—all contribute in their own way.
✦ Honoring craftsmanship: even the work of the women—spinning and weaving—is explicitly commended.
3. Appointing the Master Artisans (vv. 30–35)God names Bezaleel and Oholiab, fills them with the Spirit, wisdom, and skill so they can oversee the work and teach others.
✦ God’s Spirit works not only in prayer but also in craftsmanship.
✦ Spiritual calling shows itself in everyday tasks. It’s not only about preaching but about devoted, excellent work.
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SummarySabbath: God’s rest is sacred and takes precedence over all activity.
Voluntary Gifts: The Tabernacle’s construction is sustained by willing hearts.
Gifts and Calling: God equips people with specific abilities for His service.
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A Message for Us TodayGod’s work doesn’t need coerced helpers but willing hearts.
Every person—whether creative, practical, wealthy, or spiritual—has a role in God’s kingdom.
In an age when many withdraw, God challenges us: What do you have in your hands?
Not everyone is a Bezaleel, but everyone can contribute—be it a talent, a prayer, or a helping hand.
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Reflection Prompt“Willingness is the language of faith.”
What if today you asked with an open heart,
“Lord, what can I freely give You today—not out of duty, but out of love?”
Perhaps it’s time. Perhaps it’s talents. Perhaps it’s simply trust.
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July 06 – 12, 2025 WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING Ellen G. White │ Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 15 The Marriage of Isaac Read online here══════════════════════════════════════════════
IntroductionIn a world where personal freedom is often placed above wisdom and obedience, the story of Isaac’s marriage stands out as a radiant counterexample. It shows how God Himself takes the lead in one of life’s most important decisions: the choice of a spouse. Abraham, the father of faith, does not leave this matter to chance or mere emotion but trusts in divine guidance — and Isaac trusts him.
This event is not just a family story, but a powerful lesson about obedience, character formation, true love, and God’s blessing.
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Commentary
1. The Spiritual Significance of MarriageIsaac’s marriage was not just a personal matter — it had implications for God’s plan for humanity. Isaac was the bearer of the promise; from his line would come the chosen people and, ultimately, the Messiah. A marriage with a Canaanite woman would have endangered that spiritual mission, as these peoples were deeply immersed in idolatry.
Key thought: Marriage is a spiritual covenant — it shapes generations.
2. Abraham’s Responsibility as a FatherAlthough old, Abraham takes full responsibility for Isaac’s marriage with great foresight. He sends Eliezer, his faithful servant, with a clear mission: the wife must come from their believing relatives — and Isaac must not travel to Mesopotamia.
Abraham’s trust in God’s guidance runs deep. He says with conviction:
“The Lord will send His angel before you.” (Genesis 24:7)
Key thought: Parental care and spiritual guidance are irreplaceable — especially in matters of the heart.
3. Eliezer’s Spiritual AttitudeEliezer does more than just set out — he prays. At the well, he asks God for a sign of kindness and helpfulness — traits fitting for a God-fearing life. Rebekah’s response to his simple request becomes the answer to his prayer.
Key thought: Those who pray sincerely can recognize God’s guidance — even in everyday encounters.
4. Rebekah’s Decision – Free and Faithful ConsentDespite all the preparation, Rebekah’s own will is respected. When asked if she is willing to leave her homeland, she responds freely and confidently:
“Yes, I will go.” (Genesis 24:58)
Key thought: God leads — but He never forces. Obedience is always voluntary.
5. The Beginning of a Blessed MarriageIsaac’s gentle character and upbringing in the fear of God prepare him for a blessed marriage. Rebekah becomes his wife, and the Bible says:
“He loved her… and was comforted after his mother’s death.” (Genesis 24:67)
Key thought: True love grows in the soil of faith, loyalty, and mutual dedication to God.
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SummaryIsaac’s marriage was the result of divine guidance, wise care, and voluntary consent.
Abraham, Eliezer, Rebekah, and Isaac all acted in faith, in prayer, and in obedience.
This marriage became a symbol of domestic happiness and a life under God’s blessing.
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Message for Us TodayToday, the choice of a life partner is often made emotionally and independently of God’s standards. The story of Isaac and Rebekah offers a different path:
Marriage is not a private adventure, but a sacred covenant in God’s presence.
Parents and spiritual mentors have an important role — their counsel is not a burden, but a protection.
Prayer and spiritual maturity matter more than appearances or fleeting emotions.
Those who seek God’s guidance will discover that He has prepared what the heart longs for.
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Reflection QuestionAre you willing to let God lead in your most important life decisions — even in love?
Do you see marriage as a spiritual calling or just a romantic ideal?
Parents: Are you shaping your children’s character with love and example — or just letting them drift?
Young people: Do you see your parents as spiritual guides — or just critics?
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July 06 – 12, 2025 WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING Ellen G. White │ Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 16 Jacob and Esau Read online here IntroductionIn Chapter 16 of Patriarchs and Prophets, we meet the twins Jacob and Esau — two brothers whose character and way of life could hardly be more different. Their rivalry is not centered on worldly ambition but on one of the most essential questions of the life of faith: How much does the spiritual mean to us — how valuable is God’s promise? It is a story about priorities, decisions, and their lifelong consequences.
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Commentary1. Two Brothers – Two Life Attitudes
Jacob is reflective, future-oriented, spiritually inclined. Esau is impulsive, adventurous, focused on the here and now. Even in the womb, God announces that the older will serve the younger. While Jacob values the birthright as a spiritual inheritance, Esau nearly mocks it and carelessly sells it for a meal.
It involved more than material possessions — it meant spiritual leadership, priestly responsibility, and the privilege of being in the line through which the Redeemer would come. This right carried great spiritual dignity — but also responsibility. Esau was indifferent to this. Jacob, by contrast, deeply desired it — but unfortunately tried to obtain it by deceit.
Knowing God’s promise, Rebekah does not wait on His timing but uses human scheming. Jacob obeys, but with a troubled conscience. The deception achieves the desired blessing — but at a high cost: family division, flight, decades of separation.
Although Isaac favored Esau, he recognized after the deception that God’s will had prevailed — and he affirmed the blessing upon Jacob. Human weakness is overridden by divine providence.
The tragic moment: Esau, who had long despised the spiritual blessing, now seeks it back with tears — too late. What moves him is not true repentance, but personal loss. His story becomes a warning to all who trade the eternal for the temporary.
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SummaryJacob and Esau represent two attitudes toward God: spiritual striving versus carnal desire. While Jacob sought the right thing the wrong way, Esau rejected the right thing altogether. God’s plan is fulfilled despite human failure — but not without painful consequences.
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Message for Us TodayHow much do we value God’s promises?
In a world full of distractions, offers, and instant gratification, it is easy to be like Esau — to trade the eternal for the immediate — whether through compromise in our faith or giving up spiritual principles for social or personal “peace.”
This story warns us: spiritual blessings are no game. God’s gifts are holy. When we understand their value, we will neither treat them carelessly nor try to obtain them through improper means. God fulfills His promises — but in His way, in His time, through those who trust Him.
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Reflection ThoughtWhat decision I make today could impact my eternity?
Am I — like Esau — possibly trading the eternal for the immediate?
Do I trust God to uphold His promise without my interference — or, like Rebekah, am I tempted to “help Him out”?
Lord, teach me not to misuse Your gifts — and help me to value spiritual things above temporary gain.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/10-07-2025-exodus-chapter-35-believe-his-prophets-2/
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