Shalom,

Psalm 60:10 “Moab is my washbasin, On Edom I toss my sandal, Philistia, cry aloud because of me!” 11 Who will bring me into the fortified city? Who will lead me to Edom? 12 Should it not be You, O God—who spurned us and no longer goes out with our armies?

The children of Israel had God to lead them in battle.  Joshua 10:42 Thus Joshua captured all those kings and their lands at a single stroke, because Adonai God of Israel fought for Israel.  But Israel wanted a man, and Samuel’s sons were corrupt.  1Samuel 8:5 and (the elders of Israel) said to him (Samuel), “Behold, you have grown old and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint for us a king to judge us—like all the nations.”  

So, God chose the best looking, the one who passed the eye test, to be king over Israel.  1Samuel 9:2 and he (Kish, the Benjamite) had a son whose name was Saul—young and handsome—there was no one among Bnei-Yisrael better than him. From his shoulders and up he was taller than any of the people. They chose Saul, to be their human king.  

How does all of this history of Israel relate to our devotional life?  After all, this is a devotion.  I’ll tell you… there can only be one king on the throne.  We sing it in the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-9).  

Rabbi’s Trail: I can’t let this go by without commenting further.  There is more (actually a total of three parts) to the Shema, but we always shorten it to only the first part when we pray at Shomair.  The other two parts are Deuteronomy 11:13-21 and Numbers 13:37-41.  End RT.
Our One God is our One King on the throne of our hearts.  That’s what we mean when we call Him, “Lord.”  When Yeshua reigns in our hearts, we become the reality of the redeemed, as prophesied….  Revelation 5:9 And they are singing a new song, saying, “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals. For You were slain, and by Your blood You redeemed for God those from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. 10 You have made them for our God a kingdom and kohanim, and they shall reign upon the earth.”

Yes, we are that “kingdom of priests” serving the only wise God.  Romans 16:25 Now to the One who is able to strengthen you according to my Good News and the proclamation of Yeshua the Messiah, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept secret for long ages 26 but now is revealed and through the Writings of the Prophets has been made known to all the nations, according to the commandment of the eternal God to bring about obedience of faith— 27 to the only wise God, through Yeshua the Messiah, to Him be the glory forever. Amen.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Wed5-Aug 202622nd of Av, 5786
De 14:1-21Ez 44 1 Ch 221 Ti 6 (Jn 10)

Shalom,

Psalm 60:8 God has spoken in His holiness: “I will exult! I will parcel out Shechem and measure off the valley of Succoth. 9 Gilead is Mine, and Manasseh is Mine, Ephraim is a helmet for my head, Judah is my scepter.

David is writing about the covenant God made with him…. 

2Samuel 7:9 I have been with you wherever you went, and have cut off all your enemies from before you; and I will make your name as great as the greatest on earth.

But wait… is that our reality today?  It depends on your perspective.  When we take on God’s perspective, we see the end from the beginning.  How we arrive at God’s desired end is a matter of choices.  However; through it all, we can count on God’s promises.  Verse 8 assures us, “God has spoken in His holiness.”  What will be our response?  The next Hebrew word translated “I will exult” provides our answer….

It is “Eh’lozah” meaning, “I will ‘jump for joy,’ rejoice and triumph!”  Do we need something more than God’s word?  After all, He spoke the entire universe into existence (without any assistance).  God created it all, and it was “good.”  Then He carved out a day of rest, and blessed it.  Not because he was tired, but to teach us the joy of a weekly holiday (a holy day), set aside to rejoice in and commune with Him.  We need a day to increase our trust in God’s provision.

Genesis 2:1 So the heavens and the earth were completed along with their entire array. 2 God completed—on the seventh day—His work that He made, and He ceased—on the seventh day—from all His work that He made. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, for on it He ceased from all His work that God created for the purpose of preparing.
 
Finally for today, God promises, “Judah is My scepter.”  The Hebrew word for “scepter” is “Makhak,” meaning “an engraving or a decree.  It’s connotation is of a law being cut in stone.  Next we learn that we are God’s engraving.  Isaiah 49:16 Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands. Your walls are continually before Me.  What could be better?  When we receive Yeshua, we are grafted into His family, and made part of the tribe of Judah.  

Genesis 49:10 The scepter will not pass from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs will come. To him will be the obedience of the peoples.

Yes, yes, yes… Philippians 2:9 For this reason God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Yeshua every knee should bow, in heaven and on the earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue profess that Yeshua the Messiah is Lord—to the glory of God the Father.

Rest in that.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Tue4-Aug 202621st of Av, 5786
De 12:29-13:18[19]Ez 431 Ch 211 Ti 5 (Jn 9)

Shalom,

Psalm 60:7 Save with Your right hand and answer us, so that Your beloved may be delivered.

How is that going to happen?  There are two operative words here, and they appear at the beginning and at the end of the English translation.  Save us (in Hebrew “Hoshiah,” also the basis of “Hosana.”  The second word is “delivered.”  (in Hebrew “Yay-chal-tzun,” from “Chalatz” meaning (in addition to “deliver,” it also connotes one who is armed for defense or strengthened.

Back to the original question, how will this take place?  Did God make a provision for our salvation and deliverance?  Some of this is now starting to sound familiar, isn’t it!  God’s has a “right hand” man, His Son, Yeshua.  He is our defense and our deliverer.  Want proof?

Psalm 94:22 But Adonai has been my fortress and my God the rock of my refuge.

Psalm 18:3(2) Adonai is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer. My God is my rock, in Him I take refuge, my shield, my horn of salvation, my stronghold.

The “answer” God gives us is His Son, Yeshua.  His defense is more than protection.  God answers our prayer by actually standing in for us.  He took our place, and gave his life, so we could live with Him.  

John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Just because this verse is overused doesn’t disqualify from being the perfect fit to end this RR.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Mon3-Aug 202620th of Av, 5786
De 12:11-28Ez 421 Ch 201 Ti 4 (Jn 8:31-59)

Want a presentation of this?  Here is a link.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FiZO1ypjel9LenW8W22be5Id3cIOcwb3/view 

…and from Messiah Yeshua, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by His blood — and made us a kingdom, kohanim to His God and Father…  (Revelation 1:5–6a TLV)

In Revelation 1:5, Messiah Yeshua is named according to His authority: the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, "the ruler of the kings of the earth." This glorious King is also a priest — our "great kohen" (Hebrews 10:21). And by His own authority He has made us "a kingdom, kohanim to His God and Father" (Revelation 1:6).

Apparently the believing community has forgotten this primary calling. We would worry about someone who woke up unable to remember where they work or what they do. Yet here we are. We really are priests (1 Peter 2:5, 9), and we need to recover it.

Where does a priest go for his assignments? To the Scriptures. And there the apostolic guidance is plain. Having declared that Yeshua is King, Paul turns at once to prayer:
First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be made on behalf of all people — for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.  (1 Timothy 2:1–2 TLV)

We are called to pray for the social and civil climate we live in — that the structure of our society would be amenable to the Kingdom of God, and that the King’s purposes would advance in our nation. But to pray this way, we must first identify with the King’s heart for those who govern. And that begins with renouncing wrath, rebellion, and resentment.
Renounce Wrath, Rebellion, and Resentment

Peter told husbands to live with their wives in an understanding way, "so that your prayers will not be hindered" (1 Peter 3:7). There is an analogy here. Our hearts must be right with God before we can expect to be heard.

So I desire all men to pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without anger and argument.  (1 Timothy 2:8 TLV)

The "anger" in view was anger at a repressive Roman regime — a godless, idolatrous, tyrannical empire. This is a priestly call to pray, without rancor, for the very people who ruled that empire. And it echoes what Yeshua Himself taught:
Whenever you stand praying, forgive if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your offenses.  (Mark 11:25 TLV)

Anger, rebellion, and resentment pollute the stream of our fellowship with God and the revelation we receive from Him. Let us not deceive ourselves that we can keep up holy intercession while ignoring this.

Honoring God’s Heart

Guard your heart diligently, for from it flow the springs of life.  (Proverbs 4:23 TLV)
Many who read this regard those currently in authority — a particular leader, party, or administration — as adversaries of godly priorities. I am not contending with that. But permit me one question: what is it about loving our adversaries that we do not understand? Yeshua shed His blood for those who were adverse to God’s righteousness. He loved His enemies. He died for sinners. He expects us to reflect that love, even under real political oppression.

The despotism Israel endured under Rome and what we endure are not worthy of comparison. Yet Yeshua said, "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven… For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have?" (Matthew 5:44–46). If we cannot walk in love during this season, how will we in a season of real tribulation?

And consider this. Can we come before God through the blood, carrying an attitude antithetical to the very love that offered it? His blood speaks love and cries out for forgiveness. To pray effectively for our leaders, we must carry a similar spirit.
Whatever the political season, and whoever holds office, let us consider our ways, return to ADONAI, and pray that righteousness would be exalted.

May ADONAI give us clean hands and a pure heart, that our prayers may rise unhindered. May He make us faithful kohanim who intercede for our land in the love of Messiah Yeshua — that righteousness would be exalted among us. Amen.

A condensed version of David Harwood’s “Called to Pray: A Prayer for Those in Authority.” The theology, exegesis, and conclusions are David’s, developed and taught by him; the prose was drafted with AI assistance from his material and edited by him. Scripture is quoted from the TLV.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sun2-Aug 202619th of Av, 5786
De 11:26-12:10Ez 411 Ch 191 Ti 3 (Jn 8:1-30)

Ekev (because, as a result of in the TLV) comes from Deuteronomy 7:12, Then it will happen, as a result of (ekev) your listening to these ordinances, when you keep and do them…

In Parshah Ekev, Israel is urged to obey Adonai’s commandments, blessings are promised for obedience and judgement for disobedience, the people are reminded of Adonai’s provision in the wilderness, including manna and clothing that did not wear out. The sin of the Golden Calf is recalled along with the renewal of the covenant with the second set of tablets. Israel is called to wholeheartedly love ADONAI because their prosperity depends on obedience.

When ADONAI repeats something we are being told “listen up, this is really important.” Last week, in parshah Va’etchanan the Shema was given (Deuteronomy 6:4-9).  

Although not an exact repeat, Deuteronomy 11:18-20 recaptures the essence of the Shema – You are to set these words of Mine in your heart and in your soul. You are to bind them as a sign on your hand, and as frontlets between your eyes. You are to teach them to your children, speaking of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down and when you rise up. You are to write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

Okay, you say, I get it. The Shema is pretty important in our faith. So much so that we say the Shema every day, twice even. But this is nothing new. Perhaps not. But it does point to another thought repeated multiple times in parshah Ekev. 

The first time we get the thought that I am thinking of in Ekev is right at the start in Deuteronomy 7:12…as a result of your listening to these ordinances, when you keep and do them…
Verse 8:11 we get the reverse Take care that you do not forget ADONAI your God by not keeping His mitzvot, ordinances and statutes…

Verses 10:12-13 So now, O Israel, what does ADONAI your God require of you, but to fear ADONAI your God, to walk in all His ways and love Him…to keep the mitzvot of ADONAI and His statutes…

Verse 11:1 Therefore you are to love ADONAI your God and keep His charge, His statutes, His ordinances and His mitzvot at all times.

There are more examples in Ekev, but to steal a phrase from Amos, three statements, even for four…(in Hebrew thought three is sufficient to prove an idea, four is over the top).

But this is not just a thought in Torah. What about in the B’rit Chadasha? 

Matthew 7:24&26 Everyone who hears these words of Mine and does them will be like a wise man…Everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them will be like a foolish man…

Luke 11:28 …blessed are those who hear the Word of God and obey it.

Romans 2:13 For it is not the hearers of Torah who are righteous before God; rather, it is the doers of Torah who will be justified.

Jacob (James) 1:22 But be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deluding yourselves.

 Three statements…even four…

Although the Shema was given in last week’s parshah, it is ringing like a clarion bell throughout Ekev. Hear and do…hear and do. Torah constantly reinforces this. It’s in the Prophets. Yeshua also picks up this same thought. As do the Apostles. Do you think ADONAI is trying to get our attention? (It’s in three sections of the Bible, even four!)

Let’s close with Matthew 5:18-19 Amen, I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or serif shall ever pass away from the Torah until all things have come to pass. Therefore, whoever breaks even one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever keeps and teaches them, this one shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

Shabbat Shalom

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sat1-Aug 202618th of Av, 5786 Parashat Eikev
De 11:22-25Isa 49:14-51:3Jas 5:7-11

(Early) Shabbat Shalom,

Psalm 60:4 You made earth shake; You split it open. Heal its fractures—for it shudders. 5 You made Your people see hardship. You made us drink wine of staggering. 6 To those who fear You, You gave a banner, to be unfurled before the archers. Selah

Do you see that phrase in verse 6, “You gave a banner?”  That “banner” is in Hebrew “Nes,” meaning a sign or a wonder.  This word, “Nes” appears more than 20 times in the Hebrew Scriptures.  Isaiah used this same word when he prophesied over the salvation of Israel.  Isaiah 62:10 Go through, go through the gates. Clear the way for the people! Build up, build up the highway! Remove the stones. Lift up a banner over the peoples.

When Isaiah says, “Clear the way for the people,” that means remove the stones of stumbling that are preventing Israel (Jewish people) from coming to faith in the Jewish Messiah.  Anti-semitism is one example of such a stumbling stone.  Followers of Yeshua should reflect the love of the savior.  Jeremiah 31:3 “From afar Adonai appeared to me.” “Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love. Therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness.”  As the people of God, we must love what (and whom) He loves.

For centuries the Body of Messiah has accused Jews of being “Christ killers,” and the next moment asked the question, “Wouldn’t you want to love Jesus and welcome Him into your heart?”  The inconsistency of these two messages form a disconnect and a stumbling block for Jewish people to come to a place of faith in trusting the Jewish Messiah.
 
Here in our subject verses, David is offering a prayer.  Let me paraphrase, “God, You are breaking the world apart and we are suffering hardship.  Heal the broken places because we can’t do this ourselves (like people who are drunk on wine can’t help themselves either).  Therefore, oh Lord, send us a miracle, show us a sign, and save us from the arrows being shot at us.”  Let’s give Isaiah the last word today.  In these few verses, he answers our prayer.

Isaiah 45:21b “Who foretold this from ancient time? Who has declared it of old? Is it not I, Adonai? There is no other God beside Me—a righteous God and a Savior—there is none besides Me! 22 Turn to Me, and be saved, all the ends of the earth. For I am God—there is no other. 23 By Myself I have sworn—the word has gone forth from My mouth in righteousness, and is irrevocable: that to Me every knee will bow, every tongue will swear. 24a They will say of Me, ‘Only in Adonai is righteousness and strength.’ 25 In Adonai all the seed of Israel will be justified (made righteous) and give praise.”

Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Fri31-July-202617th of Av, 5786
De 11:10-21Ez 401 Ch 181 Ti 2 (Jn 7)

Shalom,

Psalm 60:1 For the music director, on the “Lily of the Covenant,” a Michtam of David, for teaching, 2 when he fought with Aram-Naharaim and with Aram-Zobah, and Joab returned and struck down twelve thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt. 3 O God, You have spurned us. You have broken out against us. You have been angry. Turn back to us!

Rabbi’s Note: First, as we begin our meditations on this Psalm, we must notice the way the verses are numbered differently in the Jewish and Christian texts.  The first three verses of most Jewish texts are combined into verse 1 of most Christian texts.  Therefore; most Jewish texts have 14 verses of Psalm 60, while most Christian texts have all the same words, but have only 12 verses.

The next thing we must understand is the period of time to which war this Psalm is describing.  Even though David had been anointed previously by Samuel, he finally assumed the throne to become King of Israel after the death of King Saul.  2Samuel 5:3 So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, and King David cut a covenant with them at Hebron before Adonai. Then they anointed David king over Israel.  Thus King David began his 40 year reign.  But there were still many wars to fights.  

The “Valley of Salt” is at the southern tip of the Dead Sea.  Aramians is another name for Syrians. These battles took place early in David’s reign as he sought to solidify his rulership over Israel and expand its territory.  These events are recorded in 2 Samuel 10 and 1 Chronicles 19, and it all lines up well with Psalm 60.  End RN.

The last Hebrew phrase of verse 3 is where we want to focus our attention today.  “T’sho’vav Lanu,” meaning “You will return to us.”  After detailing three ways God has left us, “(1) You have spurned us. (2) You have broken out against us. (3) You have been angry.” the psalmist calls upon God to return.  

That’s the same lesson as at the end of Psalm 59.  Do you want God’s favor (hint: say yes) then call upon Him, and why wait until you’re in trouble?  Isaiah 58:9a Then you will call, and Adonai will answer. You will cry and He will say, “Here I am.”  When we call upon God, we are opening the door to him.  God is a gentleman, He doesn’t break down closed doors.  Revelation 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.  

Dining with God?  Why, that’s the last supper where the Lord Himself is the menu.  He alone is our sacrifice.  And we take on our role as priests when we partake of the sacrifice.  When God does something, it is done with perfection.  All that’s is left for us is to have an attitude of thanksgiving.  We open the door and we let God into our lives.  Then His kingdom is ours.  I think it was Prudential Insurance who was offering a “piece of the rock.”  The reality of the “Rock” is Yeshua.  

Psalm 18:3 Adonai is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer. My God is my rock, in Him I take refuge, my shield, my horn of salvation, my stronghold.

Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Thu30-July-202616th of Av, 5786
De 10:12-11:9Ez 391 Ch 171 Ti 1  (Jn 6:37-71)

Shalom.

Psalm 59:15 They return at evening, snarling like a dog, prowling about the city. 16 They wander around for food. If they are not full, they stay up all night. 17 But I—I sing of Your strength! Yes, in the morning I sing aloud of Your lovingkindness. For You have been my fortress, a refuge in the day of my trouble. 18 O my strength, to You I sing praises. For God is my strong tower—my God of lovingkindness.

Today we conclude our meditations on Psalm 59.  First, David was being hunted by “bloodthirsty men” (in verse 3), who were acting like a pack of ravenous dogs (in verse 7).  And here also, at the end of the Psalm, the same hunters (prowling about the city) are still “snarling like a dog” (in verse 15).  Is it an honor to be hunted?  Not really, the honor is in being delivered by the hand of God from those seeking to ruin our lives.

Isaiah 41:13 “For I am Adonai your God who upholds your right hand, who says to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you.’”

That’s a great promise from God.  May the faithful receive it and stand firm upon it.  We read as David penned in the Psalm (paraphrasing), “They are coming after me in the evening,… but I’m singing God’s praises in the morning.”  Here’s another observation… Why are those “dogs” always “wandering around for food” (as in verse 16)?  It is because they are never satisfied.  Only Yeshua satisfies, and they don’t have Yeshua.  

John 6:35  Yeshua said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty.

We are all born with an emptiness that longs to be satisfied.  The temptations of this world only offer cheap substitutes.  Our longings will only and ever be fulfilled by the One-True-And-Living God.  That’s why He alone is able….

Matthew 11:28 “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and ‘you will find rest for your souls.’ 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Is there some better plan that I don’t know about?  1Peter 5:7 Cast all your worries on Him, for He cares for you.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Wed29-July-202615th of Av, 5786 Tu B’Av
De 10:1-11Ez 381 Ch 162 Th 3(Jn 6:1-36)

Shalom,

Psalm 59:13 The sin of their mouth is the words of their lips. So let them be caught in their pride, and for uttering a curse and a lie. 14 Consume them in wrath, consume them till they are no more. Let them know that God rules over Jacob to the ends of the earth. Selah

Is this a contradiction within the Psalm?  Verse 12 begins (from yesterday’s subject verses), “Do not slay them,” while today, verse 14 begins “Consume them in wrath.”  How is this not a contradiction?  It certainly appears to be just that.  Let me give you a clue… it is a matter of timing, my friends.  

The Psalmist is saying, “Do not slay them…” until they remember (“lest they forget”) their error.  Then, Lord, go ahead and “consume them until they are no more,” as an example to others, who need such a lesson.  This is not without precedent in Scripture… Numbers 32:13 The anger of Adonai burned against Israel and He caused them to wander in the wilderness 40 years until all the generation doing that evil in Adonai’s sight was gone.  We are watching this happen in the world today.  There is prophecy now being fulfilled.  

Revelation 9:20 But the rest of mankind, those not killed by these plagues, did not repent and turn away from the works of their hands—they would not stop worshiping demons and the idols of gold and silver and stone and wood, which cannot see or hear or walk. 21 And they did not repent and turn away from their murders or their sorceries or their sexual immorality or their stealing.

Don’t be caught unaware.  Listen (take heed) to Yeshua’s words.… Luke 21:34 “But watch out so your hearts are not weighed down by carousing, strong drink, and the worries of life. Do not let that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. 35 For it will come rushing upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. 36 But stay alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things about to happen, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

That’s our lesson for today.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Tue28-July-202614th of Av, 5786
De 9:4-29Ez 371 Ch 152 Th 2 (Jn 5)

Shalom,

Psalm 59:11 My God in His lovingkindness will go before me. God will let me look down on my foes. 12 Do not slay them, lest my people forget. With Your power shake them and bring them down, O Lord our shield.

The Hebrew word is “Y’qad’may’ni,” translated here as “He will go before me,” but in other translations as “He will meet me.”  It is derived from the Shoresh “Qadam” (Quf-Dalet-Mem) which can also mean “to confront” or “to anticipate.”  Clearly, from the context, David is prophesying a meeting with God as he deals with his enemies.  

Isaiah 54:17 No weapon formed against you will prosper and you will condemn every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of Adonai’s servants—their vindication is from Me.” It is a declaration of Adonai.

In what way is God going to anticipate or confront David?  A better question though is, how is God going to meet you and me in our own times of trouble?  The next verse itself tells us the answer, “In His lovingkindness.”  The Hebrew word is “Chas’do,” (from Chesed) also meaning “grace.”  Yeshua said as much to His enemies.

Luke 23:34a But Yeshua was saying, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

This brings us to yet another question, “How did God anticipate our need for grace to survive the difficult situations of life?”  Another answer you already know, “By sending His only begotten Son, Yeshua, as our eternal atonement.”  Break it down, “atonement” brings us to “at-one-ment” with God.  When we are one with Him, our enemies are His enemies too, and trust me, God knows how to take care of His enemies.

So, our prayer then should be, “May our enemies be shaken, but not killed.”  My personal testimony is that believers in Yeshua loved me into the kingdom.  My guess is that, if you know the Lord, the same is true for your testimony.  How dare we not offer that same kindness to those who are sick and dying in their unbelief.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Mon27-July-202613th of Av, 5786
De 8:11-9:3Ez 361 Ch 142 Th 1  (Jn 4:31-54)

Shavuah Tov,

Rabbi’s Note:  David submitted the RR below, giving me the option to use it or send it back to him (and he would submit something else for this week).  You see, David is a “man under authority.”  Even Yeshua was under authority, as we all are (or should be).  The danger of this RR is that some will view it as a license to be independent of ministry authority.  It isn’t, and David agrees with that statement.  Remember, even the Lone Ranger (although only a legend) was submitted to the local authorities.  

There is a difference between a “lone ranger” and a “parking lot prophet.”  Parking lot prophets are people who minister in the parking lot after the service because they are not submitted to the authority of the leadership.  If they were properly submitted, they would be recognized to minister in the building.  Don’t submit your life to a parking lot prophet, and nothing in this RR suggests that is a good idea.  End RN.

In Praise of the Lone Ranger
By David Harwood 

Last week I shared about the importance of the corporate armor of God. I stressed the vital connection we’re to have with one another to prevail in spiritual warfare. 

May I briefly share my testimony? 

I’ve been leading the same fellowship for almost fifty years. In 1982 I was ordained by two spiritual fathers and, also, in 1994, by about eight local leaders. I serve as an advisor to a local ministers network, am affiliated with Tikkun, and at this time my primary itinerant ministry is focused on a neighboring county – Queens, NYC. I’m not disconnected, disenfranchised, nor do I despise local congregations, networks, or denominations. 

But I’m writing sympathetically about lone rangers.

Lone Rangers have a bad name, but was the Lone Ranger a bad guy? Was he a loose cannon? Was he disconnected from society?

The Story:

John Reid (obviously not a real person), began his career as part of a legitimate, effective, recognized, organized group. He was a Texas Ranger. However, the troop he was with was betrayed, his brother and friends were killed, and he was wounded. Reid was rescued and cared for by Tonto – a disenfranchised honorable man. 

John Reid decided to continue to work for righteousness, but to do so outside the system.

He wore a mask.

The masked man maintained relationships with legitimate authority. He did not work outside the law. He worked apart from the law enforcement establishment. He still enjoyed the respect of those he used to work with. He did not undermine them. He did not disrespect their roles. He worked with local authority, but resisted unjust people who held legitimate offices.

When confronting evil, Reid would often disguise himself. People wouldn’t know it was the masked man, the man with a hidden identity. He did not help people for his own glory, but compassionately and righteously helped those in trouble. 

Upon completing his task he rode away from recognition. The people he helped did not know who he was. But others did. They identified him and gave him credit. His praise didn’t come from his own mouth. When finished with one problem he knew there were more people to help, and so, on to his next assignment.

This was his life.

By their fruits we shall know them.

From my perspective, there needs to be room for lone rangers to relate to and benefit local congregations. Often those who are itinerant claim to be connected to local congregations but their relationship with them is actually one of occasional attendance. Yet, their family lives are solid and their friendships with the leaders of the place they attend are in good repair, but... really, they function as lone rangers.

Some thoughts about Yeshua.

Yeshua was a rabbi, but from all we know, He was not part of the rabbinic schools of His day. (John 1:28,49; 3:2; 4:31; 6:25; 9:2; 11:8; 20:16) He affirmed that which was wholesome and rejected that which was a perversion of God’s purposes. (Mark 12:34)

He stayed connected to the Temple and synagogue. (John 18:20) Yeshua upheld the Torah. He honored the traditions of the elders when they did not conflict with the Written Word, or the underlying principles of Torah. (Mark 2:25-27; Matthew 15:6b-8)

Yeshua told people not to publicize the extraordinary healings He did and was loyal to His people, working within His culture. (Matthew 8:4)

He ministered in one village and went on to the next. (Matthew 9:35)

Some thoughts about Paul. 

Paul was not part of the Jerusalem establishment. He honored them, but did not inordinately respect them. (Acts 15:32; Galatians 2:1-2,6)

After he was sent out from Antioch it does not appear that he had an established accountability structure. Yes, he would occasionally show up and report what was happening, (Acts 14:26-27) but it was not the same thing  as saying, “Elders in Antioch, I submit my theology and practices to you.” There’s no hint of that.

In addition, Paul did not always make important decisions in harmony with his team. He left his senior partner and patron, Barnabus, and struck out on his own. (Acts 15:39) His decision to ignore spiritual counsel and go to Jerusalem shows his independence. (Acts 20:22–23; 21:4,13-14) He upheld the legitimacy of his co-workers’ individual choices. (1 Corinthians 16:12)

Lone rangers... Bad?

Maybe some are actually sent.

“Because of this, behold, I’m sending you prophets and wise men and Torah scholars. Some of them you will kill and execute at the stake, and some of them you will scourge in your synagogues and persecute from city to city.” (Matthew 23:34 TLV) 


Scriptures Referenced

Yeshua turned around and saw them following. He said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to Him, “Rabbi” (which is translated Teacher), “where are you staying?” (John 1:38) 

“Rabbi,” Nathanael answered, “You are Ben-Elohim! You are the King of Israel!” (John 1:49) 

He came to Yeshua at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that You, a teacher, have come from God. For no one can perform these signs which You do unless God is with Him!” (John 3:2) 

Meanwhile, the disciples were pressing Him, “Rabbi, eat!” (John 4:31) 

When they found Him on the other side of the sea, they said, “Rabbi, when did You get here?” (John 6:25) 

His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he should be born blind?” (John 9:2) 

“Rabbi,” the disciples say to Him, “just now the Judean leaders were trying to stone You! And You’re going back there again?” (John 11:8) 

Yeshua says to her, “Miriam!” Turning around, she says to Him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). (John 20:16) 

When Yeshua saw that he had answered wisely, He said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And no one dared any longer to question Him. (Mark 12:34) 

“I have spoken openly to the world,” Yeshua answered him. “I always taught in the synagogues and the Temple, where all the Jewish people come together. I spoke nothing in secret. (John 18:20) 

And He said to them, “Haven’t you ever read what David did when he was in need, and he and those with him became hungry? How he entered into the house of God when Abiathar was kohen gadol and ate the showbread, which is permitted only for the kohanim to eat, and gave some even to those who were with him?” Then He said to them, “Shabbat was made for man, and not man for Shabbat. (Mark 2:25–27) 

On account of your tradition, you made void the word of God. Hypocrites! Rightly did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying, ‘This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. (Matthew 15:6b–8) 

And Yeshua said to him, “See that you tell no one; but go show yourself to the kohen and offer the gift that Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.” (Matthew 8:4) 

Now Yeshua was going around all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the Good News of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and sickness. (Matthew 9:35) 

When Paul and Barnabas had a big argument and debate with them, the brothers appointed Paul and Barnabas with some others from among them to go up to Jerusalem to the emissaries and elders about this issue. (Acts 15:2) 

Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus with me. Because of a revelation, I went up and presented to them the Good News that I proclaim among the Gentiles. But I did so privately to those who seemed to be influential, to make sure I would not run—or had not run—in vain. (Galatians 2:1–2) 

But from those who seemed to be influential (whatever they were makes no difference to me; God shows no partiality)—well, those influential ones added nothing to my message. (Galatians 2:6) 

From there they sailed back to Antioch (where they had been entrusted to the gracious care of God for the work now completed). When they arrived and gathered together Messiah’s community, they began to report all that God had done in helping them and that He had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles. (Acts 14:26–27) 

A sharp disagreement took place, so that they split off from one another. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus. (Acts 15:39) 

“And now, look, bound by the Ruach, I am going to Jerusalem—not knowing what will happen to me there, except that the Ruach ha-Kodesh bears witness to me from city to city, saying that bondage and afflictions await me. (Acts 20:22–23) 

We looked up the disciples and stayed there seven days. They kept telling Paul through the Ruach not to set foot in Jerusalem. (Acts 21:4) 

Then Paul responded, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound but to die for the name of the Lord Yeshua!” Since he would not be persuaded, we fell silent, saying only, “May the Lord’s will be done.” (Acts 21:13–14) 

Now about our brother Apollos, I strongly urged him to come to you with the brothers and sisters, and he was quite unwilling to come now—but he will come when he has an opportunity. (1 Corinthians 16:12) 

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sun26-July-202612th of Av, 5786
De 7:12-8:10Ez 34-351 Ch 131 Th 5(Jn 4:1-30)

Shabbat Shalom,

The Parshah this week is Va’Etchanan which comes from Deuteronomy 3:23 I (Moses) pleaded (Va’Etchanan) with ADONAI…

In this parshah, Moses pleads to enter the land, Israel is commanded to obey Torah, Trans-Jordan cities of refuge are identified, the Ten Words are reiterated, the Shema is given, and the people are warned about becoming complacent.

Deuteronomy 4:23-31 Watch yourselves, so that you do not forget the covenant of ADONAI your God which He cut with you, and make for yourselves a graven image…(if) you act corruptly and make a graven image and do evil in the sight of ADONAI your God…you will be carried off quickly from the land…ADONAI will scatter you among the peoples, and you will be left with but a few…among the nations where ADONAI will drive you.

The LORD predicted that Israel would bend under the pressures of the nations around them. They would worship idols and make unholy sacrifices; they would do evil in the sight of the Lord.

Hence the warning in Deuteronomy 7:1-6 When ADONAI your God brings you into the land you are entering to possess and drives out many nations before you…and ADONAI your God gives them over to you and you strike them down, then you are to totally destroy them…(do not) give your daughter to his son or take his daughter for your son, (they) will turn your son away from following me to serve other gods...

ADONAI knew that if the Israelites left any remnants of the nations in the land they would be pressured to join these nations and worship their idols.

Then most Israelites would be removed from the land and scattered among the nations. Yet ADONAI also predicted that there would come a time when the people would return to Him, that the people would seek ADONAI and seek to obey Him. Then ADONAI would return his people to the land.

Deuteronomy 4:29 But from there (the diaspora) you will seek ADONAI your God, you will find Him if you look for him with all your heart and with all your soul.

Psalm 63:1 O God, You are my God, earnestly I seek You; my soul thirsts for You, my body longs for You.

Matthew 7:7-8 Yeshua says Ask, and it shall be given to you. Seek, and you shall find. Knock and it shall be opened to you. For everyone who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it shall be opened.

What exactly does it mean to seek after God? Yeshua seems to be pointing to us getting to know God. When we seek after someone and knock on their door, we get an opportunity to get to know them.

Just remember there is a world of difference between knowing about someone and knowing them.

Knowing someone requires spending time with that person, building a personal relationship.

It’s the same way with ADONAI. When you accept Yeshua as your personal savior Yeshua helps you to “knock” on ADONAI’s door.

John 17:3 “This is eternal life that they may know You, the only true God, and Yeshua, the one You sent.”

Yeshua introduces us to God when we turn from sin, turn to God and trust in Yeshua.

Then we must develop our relationship with ADONAI through months and years of study and prayer.

Psalm 119:66-68 Teach me knowledge and good judgement, for I believe in Your commands. Before I was afflicted and went astray, but now I obey Your word. You are good and what You do is good, teach me Your decrees.

There David is admitting that he used to live a crazy, sinful life. Then he was introduced to ADONAI and found that He is good, and He does good things for people who trust in Him. David pleads with ADONAI to teach him Torah, and through Torah to give him the knowledge and judgement to make better life choices. He’s seeking to “know” God.

We have all made bad choices. ADONAI knew that we would need a Savior. So, He made a way for us. All we need to do is to trust in Yeshua and get to know Him through study and prayer. Then as the Psalmist says:

Psalm 63:5-6 I will bless You as long as I live. In Your name I will lift my hands. My soul is satisfied with fat and oil, so my mouth praises you with joyful lips.

Shabbat Shalom

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sat25-July-202611th of Av, 5786
Parashat Vaetchanan Shabbat Nachamu
De 5:22[19]-7:11Isa 40:1-281 Pe 1:18-25

(Early) Shabbat Shalom,

Psalm 59:Psa 59:7 They return at evening, snarling like a dog, prowling about the city. 8 See, they are spewing with their mouth—swords in their lips—“After all, who is listening?” 9 But You, Adonai, are laughing at them. You scoff at all the nations. 10 O my strength, I watch for You—for God is my strong tower.

There are three “players” in these four verses.  First, there is “they” (and what “they” are doing to disrupt the purposes of God). Then, in verse 9, we have, “But You, Adonai(YHVH).”  Aren’t we glad those words are in the Bible?  Where would we be without them?  “But God” saves us from certain destruction.  Finally, there is “us.”  We are the third party.

Here, in verse 9, God is laughing at “them” (our enemies).  That’s what God does, He laughs at those who oppose Him.  He is not threatened.  God is secure in His identity.  Those who oppose God have a certain (predetermined) destiny.  Romans 6:23 For sin’s payment is death, but God’s gracious gift is eternal life in Messiah Yeshua our Lord.  Want more good news?  God has arranged for us to determine our own destiny.  

Joshua 24:15  If it seems bad to you to worship Adonai, then choose for yourselves today whom you will serve—whether the gods that your fathers worshipped that were beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will worship Adonai!”

Or, perhaps the more often used scripture to support the idea that the choice is our own…1Kings 18:21a Then Elijah approached all the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If Adonai is God, follow Him; but if Baal is, follow him.”  Elijah spoke to a people who were conflicted… 1Kings 18:21b But the people did not answer him, not even a word.  Don’t be conflicted.  If you deny the power of God transform your life, God will laugh at you.

It is way better that we have God as our strong tower.  Proverbs 18:10 The Name of Adonai is a strong tower. The righteous one runs into it and is set safely up high.  There is trouble in the world today, and more trouble coming.  That’s the promise of Matthew 24:21 For then there will be great trouble, such as has not happened since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will.  

Let’s not follow a delusion and finish outside of righteousness, looking up to the kingdom of God with no way to enter in.  This takes us to images of the rich man and Lazarus.  Luke 16:26 Besides all this, between us and you a great chasm is firmly set, so that those who want to cross over to you cannot, nor can those from there cross over to us.  Choose wisely my friends.  Shabbat shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Fri24-July-202610th of Av, 5786
De 5:1-21[18]Ez 331 Ch 121 Th 4 (Jn 3)

Shalom,

Psalm 59:5 For no guilt of mine, they run and set things up. Awake! Help me! Look! 6 For You are Adonai Elohei-Tzva’ot, the God of Israel! Rouse Yourself to punish all the nations. Show no mercy to any iniquitous traitors. Selah

David is a hunted man.  He is being hunted by men who had previously followed him in battle against a common enemy.  Now, those same men have turned against him, all because an obsessed king said so.  Things for Yeshua were much the same.  He also was hunted by His own people.

Our freedom in America has caused us to forget the tyranny of kings.  We have the sovereign God, but in many parts of the world, they have, or had, a sovereign king.  There can only be one sovereign in any one place at any one time.  By definition, a “sovereign” must be obeyed immediately and without question.  Any unaddressed rebellion at all means the “sovereign” is no longer “sovereign.”

God alone is sovereign in heaven.  Psalm 103:19 Adonai has set up His throne in the heavens, and His kingdom rules over all.  The battle raging between good and evil in the earth today is over who will reign on earth.  So we pray… Matthew 6:10 Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.  God’s will in heaven is done immediately and without question.

Rabbi Trail: God warned Israel through the prophet, Samuel, against having a king since He was already their King.  1Samuel 8:11 “This will be the practice of the king that will reign over you,” he said. “He will draft your sons, etc… 17b Then you yourselves will become his slaves. 18 When the day comes and you cry out because of your king, whom you have chosen for yourselves, Adonai will not answer you on that day.”

But the people insisted, and God gave them their desires.  1Samuel 10:19 “But today you have spurned your God, who is your deliverer from all your calamities and your distresses. For you said to Him: ‘No! Rather set a king over us.’ Now therefore present yourselves before Adonai by your tribes and by your thousands.”…24b Then all the people shouted and said, “Long live the king!”  End RT.

All David can do is to call upon the greater King, Who is the Lord.  We are all hunted.  Satan wants our souls.  And the only hope of salvation for any of us is to follow David’s example, and call upon the Lord.  

Psalm 91:14 “Because he has devoted his love to Me, I will deliver him. I will set him securely on high, because he knows My Name. 15 When he calls on Me, I will answer him. I will be with him in trouble, rescue him, and honor him.

Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Thu23-July-20269th of Av, 5786Tish’a B’Av
De 4:25-40Jer 8:13-9:23Lam 1-51 Co 3:1-20
Ex 32:11-14; 34:10 (afternoon) Isa 55:6-56:8 (afternoon) Mt 5:1-12 (afternoon)

Shalom,

Rabbi’s Note: Take a look at the Hebrew date in the “Daily Bread” section below.  You know what that means?  The RR for tomorrow, July 23rd is for Tisha B’Av, the 9th day of the Hebrew month Av, a date of many Jewish calamities throughout history.  For insight into the most observant of Jewish practices, click this link… https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/144576/jewish/Tisha-BAv-Order-of-the-Day.htm End RN.
_______

Psalm 59:3 Deliver me from workers of iniquity. Rescue me from bloodthirsty men. 4 For behold, they lie in wait for me. Defiant men stir up strife against me—not for my transgression or sin, Adonai.

Verses two and three both start with the same word.  In both verses, David (Notwithstanding that some scholars believe this Psalm was written much later by Nehemiah because Nehemiah also had enemies who plotted to kill him.) is calling upon God for deliverance.  In verse two, he seeks deliverance from his enemies, while in verse three, he is seeking deliverance from “workers of iniquity.”  

As with all Scripture, we must ask the question, “What is God saying to me through these words?  How does this speak to my life?”  First, let’s do a quick study…..  “What is deliverance?”  Or, perhaps a better way to phrase the question is, “What needs deliverance?”  This is at the very heart of Yeshua’s ministry.  

Isaiah 61:1 The Spirit of Adonai Elohim is on me, because Adonai has anointed me to proclaim Good News to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.  

Yeshua read this in his hometown (Nazareth) synagogue, affirming this is his ministry… Luke 4:21 Then He began to tell them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your ears.”  Yeshua spoke, and the people heard in their ears, but they were not ready to receive it in their hearts.  Deliverance happens in the heart.

Back to our original question, Who needs deliverance?  Let me answer unequivocally, “Everybody!”  And to the second question, “What needs deliverance?”  Our verse from Psalm 59 answers the question, if you look at the Hebrew, the English misses it.  Psalm 59:4a For behold, they lie in wait for me.  The Hebrew says, “They lie is wait for my soul.”  The Hebrew word for soul is “Nefesh,” meaning, “the life giving force that is within me.”  Make no mistake, that’s what the enemy wants.  Add to that, we are all captives of sin.  We all need deliverance from that captivity.  

Stop and ask!  Then pray for deliverance and Malachi 3:20(4:2) “But for you who revere My Name, the sun of righteousness will rise, with healing in its wings.”  That “sun of righteousness” is the bright and morning star!

Revelation 22:16 “I, Yeshua, have sent My angel to testify these things to you for My communities. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.”
   
Oh this is good!  What’s better?  When you receive it, it becomes your goodness, direct from the throne of God.  Shalom shalom.
 
Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Wed22-July 20268th of Av, 5786
De 4:41-49Ez 321 Ch 111 Th 3 (Jn 2)

Shalom,

Psalm 59:1 For the music director: “Do Not Destroy,” a Michtam of David, when Saul sent men to watch the house to kill him. 2 Deliver me from my enemies, my God! Set me on high, away from those who rise up against me.

David is a hunted man whose only hope is that God will deliver him from his enemies.  What he is writing about here, is a story that is retold in 1Samuel 19.  Specifically, 1Samuel 19:11 Then Saul sent agents to David’s house to watch him, in order to kill him in the morning. But David’s wife Michal warned him saying, “If you don’t escape for your life tonight, tomorrow you will be dead!” 12 So Michal lowered David down through the window, and thus he went, fled and escaped.  Spoiler Alert: God answers David’s prayer for deliverance.  He survives many attempts on his life, and lives to old age.  He died naturally, meaning nobody killed him, though there were many who tried.

This is the third Psalm in a row to start with these words.  Psalm 59:1a For the music director: “Do Not Destroy,” a Michtam of David.  “Do not destroy” in Hebrew is “Al Tash’chet” which was probably the opening words to a popular tune in David’s time.  It is likely a musical designation, containing implied instructions to the conductor of the worship team related to the singing or instrumentation of the poem.

Rabbi’s Note:  Psalm 75 is a fourth “Al Tash’chet” but it is of Asaph.  End RN.

In David’s initial petition before God, he asks for two things: “deliver me,” and “set me on high.”  In transliterated Hebrew, “Hatzi’lay’ni” and “T’sag’vay’ni” respectively.  (Hebrew is naturally poetic due to the similar structures of words, especially the same prefixes and suffixes.)  To be delivered is to be set free.  It is a word that figures prominently in the Passover story.  

To be set high includes the figurative understanding of being exalted. Ultimately, it is not us who will be set up high, but Yeshua….  Isaiah 2:17 The pride of man will be humbled, the arrogance of men abased, for Adonai alone will be exalted in that day. 18 The idols will completely pass away.  Oh, did I leave out the fact that we will be seated in high places together with Him?  

Ephesians 2:5 Even when we were dead in our trespasses, He made us alive together with Messiah. (By grace you have been saved!) 6 And He raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Messiah Yeshua.  Deliverance from our enemies and seated together with Yeshua!  What could be better?  Paul is quoting Isaiah 64:3(4)…

1Corinthians 2:9 But as it is written, “Things no eye has seen and no ear has heard, that have not entered the heart of mankind—these things God has prepared for those who love Him.”  

Shalom shalom.

Tue21-July 20267th of Av, 5786
De 4:5-40Ez 311 Ch 101 Th 2  (Jn 1:29-51)

Shavuah Tov,

Rabbi’s Note:  The link below takes you to a beautiful six minute video David prepared for us.  I watched it and find it an excellent companion to this RR.  David and I agree, enjoy.  

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1U7qUpiH49bgpqdr5spoW379poASYgRbF/view

The hope of our experiencing salvation is found in 1 Thessalonians.

But since we are of the day, let us be sober-minded—putting on the breastplate of faithfulness and love, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. For God did not destine us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Yeshua the Messiah. He died for us so that, whether we may be awake or asleep, we may live together with Him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up—just as you in fact are doing. (1 Thessalonians 5:8–11 TLV)

Note the corporate aspect of this exhortation:
WE are of the day
Let US be sober
God has not destined US for wrath
Yeshua died for US
Whether WE wake or sleep, WE will live with Him
Encourage one another, as YOU (plural) in fact are doing

The writers meant to secure their readers' faith and strengthen their walk with the Lord. Yet the community only benefits as each individual applies these words. If one disciple is not sober-minded, the whole body's outlook is diluted. Disciples are called to encourage and edify each other—and that works as each person applies the instruction to their own life. So every disciple needs the helmet, the hope of salvation, securely fastened.

One word about hope. Here—and in every context—hope means confident expectation. It is not, "I sure hope I was saved, and there's a good possibility I will be at the day of judgment." It is this:

I was saved. I have been saved. I am saved. I am being saved. I will be saved—through our Lord Yeshua the Messiah.

What kind of salvation is this? It is the individual's eschatological salvation. The wrath in view is the outcome of God's final judgment upon corporate and individual wickedness at the Judgment.

Now consider the helmet in Ephesians 6. It has much in common with what we have seen, but a wholly different nuance: Paul's emphasis falls on the Corporate Warrior.

Paul uses many metaphors for the Ephesians' corporate identity: the Messiah's Body (1:22); One New Man and God's dwelling place (2:15, 21–22); a mature man (4:13); Yeshua's wife (5:32). Following that pattern, in chapter 6 we are to receive the identity of God's corporate warrior—and the armor is meant to cover and equip the entire community. The helmet of salvation, then, refers to a mindset of mission the Messianic community is to maintain.

And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:17)

Here the helmet of salvation is a faith-filled determination to bring salvation to others—the confident expectation that when the believers show up, they bring deliverance with them. Each individual is equipped, but the context is the Body partaking of God's nature. After all, it is His body, and His body wears His armor.

Was Paul really calling the community and each disciple to keep their mission in mind? We can discern it from the verses he referenced. Consider Isaiah 59:

Then His own arm brought salvation to Him, and His righteousness upheld Him. He put on righteousness like a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on His head; and He put on garments of vengeance for clothing and wrapped Himself with zeal as a mantle. (Isaiah 59:14–20)

God's helmet of salvation is not guarding His mind to assure Him of His own salvation—the thought is ridiculous. His helmet complements His mindset to bring deliverance. Paul quoted Isaiah 59 in Romans and proclaimed that the Deliverer would come. This coming Deliverer has armor.

So let us fasten on our helmet. Let us set our hope on God's activity—promised in Isaiah 59 and described in individual eschatological terms in 1 Thessalonians 5. As harbingers of Yeshua's ultimate saving act, we bring deliverance that presages the coming kingdom. To bring salvation we need the intention and expectation of bringing it—and for that, the hope of our own being saved must be securely in place.

We are part of God's corporate warrior. Let's believe it, and put our helmet on.

Written by David Harwood. Condensed for length with AI assistance.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sun19-July 20265th of Av, 5786
De 4:25-40Ez 291 Ch 8Col 4  (Lk 24)

Shalom,

Psalm 58:11 The righteous one will rejoice when he beholds vengeance, when he washes his feet in the blood of the wicked. 12 Then men will say: “There really is a reward for the righteous. There really is a God who judges on earth!”

These are the last two verses of Psalm 58.  So the Psalm concludes, “Surely, there is a God Who is judging on the earth.”  Such a victory expression follows terms that are reserved for war.  Remember that in ancient times, war was a bloody, hand to hand fight to the death.  “The righteous… will wash his feet in the blood of the wicked.”  Yes, there really is a God Who gives His people the victory.

God has promised Himself the victory.  Proverbs 21:31b …but victory comes from Adonai.  And every victory flows through the Son of God, Yeshua HaMashiach.  1Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, who keeps giving us the victory through our Lord Yeshua the Messiah!

These victories are promised to the people of God, also known as the children of Israel.  2Samuel 7:23 What one nation on earth is like Your people, like Israel, whom God went to redeem for Himself as a people, to make for Himself a Name, to do for You a great thing and awesome deeds for Your land, before Your people whom You redeemed for Yourself from Egypt—driving out nations and their gods?

Wait!  Before you leave disappointed and feeling excluded, there is a prophecy of being grafted in.  By faith in the Son, you (who were far off and alienated) are included.  This is good news for both Israel and the nations.  Ephesians 2:12 At that time you were separate from Messiah, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Messiah Yeshua, you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of the Messiah. 14 For He is our shalom, the One who made the two into one and broke down the middle wall of separation. Within His flesh He made powerless the hostility… 18 for through Him we both have access to the Father by the same Ruach. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but you are fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household.

Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Mon20-July 20266th of Av, 5786
De 3:23-4:4Ez 301 Ch 91 Th 1 (Jn 1:1-28)

Shabbat Shalom,

This week we start the last book of Torah. Deuteronomy, Devarim in Hebrew, is the plural form of devar – meaning word. So, Devarim is words. This comes from the opening verse, “These are the words (devarim) that Moses spoke to all Israel across the Jordan – in the wilderness...”

Deuteronomy, from the Greek deuteron nomos meaning second law or repetition of the law. This is also an accurate name for Deuteronomy as that is largely what Deuteronomy is – a second telling of the Law by Moses before he hands leadership over to Joshua.

As I was reading though the Torah portion, Deuteronomy 1:5 really stuck out to me.

Across the Jordan in the land of Moab, Moses began to explain this Torah…

What is this statement about? Why did Moses need to explain Torah?

Perhaps the easiest answer is that he was led by the LORD to more carefully explain Torah to the people. Maybe to even clear up a few misunderstandings or potential stumbling blocks. Maybe some of the people had already been taking the commandments too literally thereby missing the intent of the command or perhaps not taking the commandments literally enough again missing the intent.

The prophet Isaiah opens his prophesy in Isaiah 1:2-3 Listen! Heavens, and hear, earth, for ADONAI has spoken: “Sons I have raised and brought up, but they have rebelled against me. The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its manger, but Israel does not know, My people do not understand.

Yeshua also spoke on this in Mark 7:6-9 …Rightly did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, as it is written: ‘This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’

“Having left behind the commandments of God, you hold onto the traditions of men.” He was also telling them, you set aside the commands of God, in order that you may validate your own traditions.

The LORD led Moses to restate Torah, perhaps more carefully to ensure the people completely understood Torah. Isaiah is linking rebellion to not understanding God’s intent. Yeshua is reminding people that Torah obedience is far more important than traditions.

But aren’t we saved by grace through our faith in Yeshua? If so, what relevance does Torah have for us? Paul has this to say about Torah in Romans 3:30-31:

Since God is One, He will set right the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith. Do we then nullify the Torah through faithfulness? May it never be! On the contrary, we uphold the Torah.

How can we uphold Torah? Through careful study…of the Bible. We must know Scripture.

Yet some persist with Torah being “old law,” meaning that it is somehow no longer relevant.

Matthew 5:17-19 “Do not think that I (Yeshua) came to abolish the Torah or the Prophets! I did not come to abolish, but to fulfill. Amen, I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or sherif shall ever pass away from the Torah until all things come to pass. Therefore, whoever breaks even the least of these commandments, and teaches others the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever keeps and teaches them, this one shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”

I cannot see heaven (yet), but I can see the earth. It looks solid enough to me. I am pretty sure this means that not even the smallest letter or sherif have passed from Torah. I have no idea what Yeshua means when he says “least in heaven.” But I am guessing that it isn’t a good thing.

Rashi, the 11th Century Jewish commentator taught that the meaning of “explain this Torah” (Deuteronomy 1:5) was that Moses had the Torah translated into the seventy languages – all the languages of the world. Rashi further explained that the LORD was commanding the Jews to take Torah to the whole world.

Because we are adopted into the Nation of Israel, we too share in the responsibility to bring the LORD’s Torah to all peoples.

Kind of an interesting set of reminders – from Moses, Isaiah, Yeshua, Paul and Rashi (among many others), know (study) God’s Word and share the Good News with the whole world.

Shabbat Shalom!

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sat18-July 20264th of Av, 5786
Parashat Devarim Shabbat Chazon
De 3:15-22Isa 1:1-27Mt 3:1-12

(Early) Shabbat Shalom,

Psalm 58:7 O God, break their teeth in their mouths. Tear out the fangs of young lions, Adonai. 8 Let them flow away like water that runs off. When he bends his bow, let the arrows be cut off. 9 Like a slug melting away as it slithers, like a woman’s miscarriage, may they never see the sun. 10 Even before your pots can feel a thorn—whether alive or ablaze—He will sweep the wicked away.

I’m dealing with these four verses of Psalm 58 all together because David is expressing himself poetically as he prays over what he wants God to do to his enemies.  David did not quite have the fullness of the love of Yeshua.  Contrast our subject verses with this teaching from Yeshua’s Sermon on the Mount….

Matthew 5:43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Even the tax collectors do the same, don’t they? 47 And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than anyone else? Even the pagans do that, don’t they? 48 Therefore be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.”

Rabbi Trail: The second Hebrew word of Psalm 58, verse 7 is “Haras” (translated “break”).  I bring it up here as it could be related etymologically to our English word, “harass,” which means, “To subject (another) to hostile or prejudicial remarks or actions; pressure or intimidate.”  

I read this definition on the internet, so it must be true.  More seriously, it was offered without reference or credit, so, while I can’t take credit for it, I don’t know how to assign it either.  Upon further research, I believe it should be credited as follows… The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition.  I wish to thank them publicly.  End RT.

Previously, in Psalm 57, verse 5, David told us the teeth of our enemies are spears and arrows.  Now, in Psalm 58, verse 7, he is calling upon God to break their “teeth” in their mouths, meaning before they can spew them forth them as weapons.  

Notwithstanding that plain imagery, there is some difficult imagery in verse 10 concerning “pots” that are “alive or ablaze.”  David explains what he means, at the end of the verse, when he says plainly, “He will sweep the wicked away.”  The “meat in the pots” is David’s enemies in the form of the new kingship of Absalom.  David is saying (figuratively) may they, whether raw (alive) or ablaze (fully cooked), be swept away.  Need anyone say more?  Shabbat shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Fri17-July 20263rd of Av, 5786
De 2:31-3:14Ez 281 Ch 7Col 3 (Lk 23:26-56)

Shalom,

Psalm 58:4 The wicked are strangers from the womb. Speaking lies, they go astray from birth. 5 Their venom is like a serpent’s venom, like a deaf cobra shutting its ear— 6 not hearing the voice of charmers, or a cunning spell binder.

Wow!  David is “hitting it out of the park” here, with his poetic language.  He is not “accusing the brethren,” that is Satan’s job.  David is describing the nature of the wicked.  In Hebrew, the “wicked” are “Rasha” (Resh-Shin-Ayin).  Strong’s describes them as, “morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person -- + condemned, guilty, ungodly, wicked (man), that did wrong.”  David is consistent with that interpretation.

Let’s take a moment to “unpack” some of David’s colorful language.  First, he accuses the wicked of being “strangers from the womb.”  The womb is where families are made.  It is the foundation of family life.  Not so with the wicked.  Real relationships are impossible with wicked people, because they are “me first” kind of people.  Families love one another, and love is best defined as putting the needs of others ahead of your own.

Then David says the wicked “speak lies.”  True again, verified by the words of Yeshua… John 8:44 You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks lies he is just being himself—for he is a liar and the father of lies.  

These wicked people have believed lies, that’s how they became wicked, and perpetuate those same lies by speaking them to others.  Again, hear the words of Yeshua… Luke 6:45 “Out of the good treasure of his heart the good man brings forth good, and out of evil the evil man brings forth evil. For from the overflow of the heart his mouth speaks.”

Finally, in verses 5 and 6, we have the venomous snake analogy.  Venom (which are the words of the wicked) is mentioned twice, which makes it the most venomous venom there is.  And why can’t these wicked hear the beauty of truth?  Because their ears are stopped up.  Moreover; the Hebrew indicates their ears are deaf to wisdom.  But don’t be fooled, there are consequences…

2Thessalonians 2:10 and with every kind of wicked deception toward those who are perishing. They perish because they did not accept the love of the truth so as to be saved. 11 For this reason God sends them a delusional force, to lead them to believe what is false, 12 so that they may be judged—all those who did not believe the truth but delighted in wickedness.  

Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Thu16-July 20262nd of Av, 5786
De 2:2-30Ez 271 Ch 6Col 2 (Lk 23:1-25)

Shalom,

Psalm 58:1 For the music director: “Do Not Destroy,” a Michtam of David. 2 Do you really speak of justice, O “gods”? Do you judge with fairness, sons of man? 3 No, in heart you devise injustice. Your hands weigh out violence on earth.

Overview: As we start our study of Psalm 58, we make several general observations.  This is yet another Psalm “of David” (about half the Psalms are).  Each of David’s Psalms deals with a period of difficulty, stress, and testing in David’s life.  There are a total of 12 Psalms (beginning with Psalm 3 and ending with Psalm 64) that deal with the rebellion of David’s son, Absalom.  Psalm 58 is the 8th one.  What strikes me here, is that even though Absalom sent an army to kill his father (David), David instructed his own army to preserve and even to protect the life of Absalom.  When Absalom died, David grieved, and no-one dared to celebrate.

Notice also the similarity of the last verses of Psalms 58, 64, and 140.

Psalm 58:11 The righteous one will rejoice when he beholds vengeance, when he washes his feet in the blood of the wicked. 12 Then men will say: “There really is a reward for the righteous. There really is a God who judges on earth!”

Psalm 64:11 The righteous will be glad in Adonai and take refuge in Him. Let all the upright in heart give glory!

Psalm 140:14 Surely, the righteous ones will praise Your name. The upright will dwell in Your presence.

Is there any doubt these were all written by the same man, who is called the man after God’s own heart?  End Overview.

David is addressing Absalom’s claim to be a “more impartial” judge than his father, David.  2Samuel 15:4 Moreover, Absalom would say, “If only I were appointed judge in the land, then every man who has any suit or case would come to me, and I would get him justice!” …6 So Absalom kept doing this to everyone of Israel who came to the king for judgment. Thus Absalom stole the hearts of the people of Israel.

The truth about Absalom and his followers is revealed in Psalm 58:3a …No, in heart you devise injustice.

The Hebrew word for “injustice” is “Evel” (Ayin-Vav-Lamed), which may be the derivation on our English word “evil.”  The “Topical Lexicon” says this… “(Evel) designates moral crookedness expressed in acts of injustice, unrighteousness, deceit, or fraud. It contrasts with ‘Tṣedeq,’ righteousness, and ‘Mishpat,’ justice or judgment, underscoring a violation of God-given order within personal, social, and covenantal relationships.”
 
“Lo Ta’asu Evel BaMishpat”  Leviticus 19:15 “You are to do no injustice in judgment.”  The Bible warns us extensively against unequal weights, thus tipping the scales of justice.  Proverbs 20:10 Unequal weights and measures—both are an abomination to Adonai.  In God’s kingdom, everything and everybody is in perfect alignment with God’s will.  And we pray, “Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”  Bo Yeshua Bo, come Yeshua, come.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Wed15-July 20261st of Av, 5786Rosh Chodesh Av
De 1:39-2:1, Nu 28:11-15Ez 261 Ch 5Col 1 (Lk 22:39-71)

Shalom,

Psalm 57:11(10) For Your lovingkindness is great up to the heavens, and Your truth to the skies. 12(11) Be exalted, O God, above the heavens. Let Your glory be over all the earth!

Today, we finish Psalm 57 with a flourish of praise for God, “Your lovingkindness” (Chas’d’cha), “Your truth” (Ami’te’cha), “Be exalted” (Rumah), “Your glory” (K’vod’e’cha).  That’s some high praise, and look where it is being offered: “to the heavens” (Sha’ma’yim), to the skies (Sh’chaq’im), “Above the heavens” (Al-Sha’ma’yim), “Over the entire earth” (Kol-Ha’A’retz).  I’d say that pretty much covers every possibility.

This idea of proactively carrying the message of God to the world is not new to David… Psalm 18:50 Therefore I praise You among the nations, Adonai, and sing praises to Your Name. 51 Great victories He gives to His king. He shows loyal love to His anointed—to David and his seed, forever.  This is a message that defines David’s life (and our own) in Messiah Yeshua for eternity (in both space and time).  Paul’s prayer is for us today….

Ephesians 3:16 I pray that from His glorious riches He would grant you to be strengthened in your inner being with power through His Ruach, 17 so that Messiah may dwell in your hearts through faith. I pray that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to grasp with all the kedoshim what is the width and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Messiah which surpasses knowledge, so you may be filled up with all the fullness of God.

In Yeshua’s name, amen!  Now, let’s close with this.  It is a life verse for me. (You can receive it as a life verse for you too.)  We also used it not long ago to close the RR for June 26th.  Ephesians 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do far beyond all that we ask or imagine, by means of His power that works in us, 21 to Him be the glory in the community of believers and in Messiah Yeshua throughout all generations forever and ever! Amen.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Tue14-July 202629th of Tamuz, 5786
De 1:22-1:38Ez 24-251 Ch 4Php 4 (Lk 22:1-38)

Shalom,

Psalm 57:9 Awake, my glory! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn. 10 I will praise You, my Lord, among the peoples. I will sing praises to You among the nations.

Rabbi Trail:  Last Friday, the last time I wrote an RR, I shared an Hebrew song performed by Sheli Myers with this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGImjZQaSqU  Many of you already clicked and listened.  The Hebrew is taken from Psalm 57, verses 8, 10 and 12.  Here is the translation….

Psalm 57:8 My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast. I will sing, yes, I will make music…. 10 I will praise You, my Lord, among the peoples. I will sing praises to You among the nations…. 12 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens. Let Your glory be over all the earth! 

End RT.

King David is writing prophetically about a ministry, as if it is his own, while it will really belong to David’s Son, Yeshua.  In Psalm 57, verse 10, David writes of a global ministry in several different, and (what turns out to be) all encompassing ways.  Psalm 57:10 I will praise You, my Lord, among the peoples. I will sing praises to You among the nations.  

The words that caught my attention are “Ba’Amim” (spelled “Bet-Ayin-Mem-Yud-Mem”) meaning “in (or among) people.”  The second word is hyphenated “Bal-Umim” (spelled Bet-Lamed-Aleph-Mem-Yud-Mem) meaning from within and to nations.  David is prophesying what he, himself, never did.  Therefore; it has to be the Greater David, David’s Son Yeshua, Who will Psalm 57:10… “praise You, my Lord, among the peoples. I will sing praises to You among the nations.”

Rabbi’s Note: In biblical terms, the “nations” are those people who live outside of the commonwealth of the Hebrew people.

Turns out that because we belong to Yeshua, His ministry is our ministry.  Isaiah 43:19 Here I am, doing a new thing; Now it is springing up—do you not know about it?…21 the people I formed for Myself, so they might declare My praise.

Hebrews 13:15 Through Yeshua then, let us continually offer up to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips giving thanks to His name.

This is our delight, and you have to know it delights Him too.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Mon13-July 202628th of Tamuz, 5786
De 1:11-21Ez 231 Ch 3Php 3 (Lk 21)

Shavuah Tov,

The other day a few of us were praying and concern was expressed about the world our children and their children would inherit. We know of people who are so filled with anxiety and pessimism that they have decided to not have children. This is nothing new. We knew highly educated and remarkably talented people who made the same decision decades ago.  I empathize with those who are anxious about the future. So much looks bleak. Forget about the future, the present looks very dark. I agree, the future appears to be ominous.

So, what was my response to these concerns?  I immediately had a word of comfort.  … where sin increased, grace overflowed even more—(Romans 5:20b) The most important thing in life is not that we, or our children, or grandchildren, would be comfortable. The most important thing is that we would know Yeshua and, abiding in His love, overcome the world.

Someone might remonstrate, “But there are more temptations than ever before! The influence of the satan upon our culture is so very powerful. How can they possibly overcome?”

I might reply as mentioned before: … where sin increased, grace overflowed even more—(Romans 5:20b). And then, knowing me, I might
follow up with this: Now we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)

In addition, I might add the following: What then shall we say in view of
these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He
who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how shall He not also with Him freely give us all things? (Romans 8:31–32)

Dare I believe that our Father will guide, protect, defend, and provide for
those who are growing up in what is currently a depraved social environment?  Dare I not believe that? It is right that I trust Him for “all things.” He is the God of every nuance of favor. He is the God of all grace. After you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace—who has called you into His eternal glory in Messiah—will Himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you. (1Peter 5:10)

Since I’m meditating on Romans 8, let me add another reason for my confidence in God’s active favor.  Who shall separate us from the love of Messiah? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, “For Your sake we are being put to death all day long; we are counted as sheep for the slaughter.” But in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Messiah Yeshua our Lord. (Romans 8:35–39)

A friend may say, “But David, you’re quoting Scriptures that speak of suffering and even martyrdom! Please stop.” I appreciate that candor but allow me to push back and reference what Yeshua said. “Shalom I leave you, My shalom I give to you; but not as the world gives! Do not let your heart be troubled or afraid. (John 14:27)

Take heart. In fact, “do not let your heart be troubled” about the wellbeing of
those growing up at this time. There will always be enough enabling favor to see us through. There is no circumstance that can arise which other believers have not experienced. There is no satanic fury that cannot be withstood.  But in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. (Romans 8:37)

Favor and shalom to you, in the name of Yeshua.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sun12-July 202627th of Tamuz, 5786 
De 1:1-10 Ez 221 Ch 2Php 2 (Lk 20)