The Essentials Of The Bible: Part 61-- God Judges And Restores The People – Hannah’s Vow Fulfilled

Hannah was one of Elkanah’s two wives, and she was childless.  His other wife, Peninnah, had children and she was very cruel to Hannah because she was childless.  Every year Elkanah would take his family from their city, and go up to Shiloh to make sacrifices to the LORD of Hosts.  On days that he made offerings, he would give Peninnah and her sons and daughters a portion of meat, but to Hannah, he would give a double portion because she was childless.  Peninnah would provoke and taunt Hannah so severely, that she couldn’t even eat; but would weep bitterly in her soul.  Elkanah tried to console her, but she was getting desperate.

One day, she wept so uncontrollably, that Eli the high Priest observed her and thought she was drunk and said to her, “Woman put away your wine!”  But she had just prayed a powerful prayer; in which she made a vow to the LORD that if He blessed her with a son, then she would give the son back to the LORD and he would be dedicated to serving the LORD all of his life.  She also promised that his hair would never be cut. 

When Hannah told Eli that she was not drunk, but discouraged and was praying with great anguish and sorrow, Eli said to her, “Go in peace! May the God of Israel grant the request you have asked of him.”  This changed her whole mood and gave her hope and she went back to eating.

1 Samuel 1:9-18 ESV After they had eaten and drunk in Shiloh, Hannah rose. Now Eli the priest was sitting on the seat beside the doorpost of the temple of the LORD.  (10)  She was deeply distressed and prayed to the LORD and wept bitterly.  (11)  And she vowed a vow and said, "O LORD of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of your servant and remember me and not forget your servant, but will give to your servant a son, then I will give him to the LORD all the days of his life, and no razor shall touch his head."  (12)  As she continued praying before the LORD, Eli observed her mouth.  (13)  Hannah was speaking in her heart; only her lips moved, and her voice was not heard. Therefore Eli took her to be a drunken woman.  (14)  And Eli said to her, "How long will you go on being drunk? Put your wine away from you."  (15)  But Hannah answered, "No, my lord, I am a woman troubled in spirit. I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I have been pouring out my soul before the LORD.  (16)  Do not regard your servant as a worthless woman, for all along I have been speaking out of my great anxiety and vexation."  (17)  Then Eli answered, "Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him."  (18)  And she said, "Let your servant find favor in your eyes." Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad.

Four Key Points  From Hannah’s Prayer, About Petitioning The LORD:

1.  EMPTY SELF!  Hannah had prayed with all of her heart, soul and being.  She poured out in anguish, her unbearable situation, she emptied herself completely. 

2.  LEAVE IT AT THE ALTAR!  She left her problem at the altar of God.  So often, we take it back up and carry it in a bag full of needs, prayer petitions, personal addiction, etc. 

3.  BELIEVE!  She believed the man of God when said; “Go in peace; and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him." 

4.  JUST TOUCH THE HEM!  Eli, the High Priest didn’t know what Hannah was praying for, it was a secret petition as we so often do during prayer time in a worship service; “unspoken prayers.”  It is like the woman who touched the hem of Jesus garment. 

Upon arriving back home, that night, Elkanah slept with Hannah and the LORD remembered her plea and blessed her with a son, whom she named Samuel.  The next year Hannah did not go up with her husband to sacrifice because the baby was not yet weaned.  When he was weaned, she took him up to Shiloh and presented him to Eli the High Priest and asked him if he remembered her; that she was the woman several years earlier who was so distraught.  She then presents the boy as a gift to the LORD for service. 

1 Samuel 1:24-28 ESV And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine, and she brought him to the house of the LORD at Shiloh. And the child was young.  (25)  Then they slaughtered the bull, and they brought the child to Eli.  (26)  And she said, "Oh, my lord! As you live, my lord, I am the woman who was standing here in your presence, praying to the LORD.  (27)  For this child I prayed, and the LORD has granted me my petition that I made to him.  (28)  Therefore I have lent him to the LORD. As long as he lives, he is lent to the LORD." And he worshiped the LORD there.

When we make a vow to the LORD, we better be serious about it.  God does not take our words lightly.  Our courts are quick to make us swear and our government agencies, require us to take an oath, when we file a legal document or register to vote.  Jesus actually says, “Don’t do it.”  All of my life, when confronted with oaths, vows and swearing, my stand has been to obey Jesus.

Matthew 5:33-37 KJV Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:  (34)  But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne:  (35)  Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.  (36)  Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.  (37)  But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.

Judges really hate it when you stand before them and refuse to be sworn in and refuse to raise your right hand, an act of taking an oath whether you say the words or not.  However, they are accustomed to it and by constitutional law they must allow you, with your hands by your sides to affirm your truth.  Your yes is yes and your no is no and the preceding will go on.  Some judges are more gracious than others about this issue.   Some will gnash their teeth and get red in the face and make a spectacle out of you.  But who are you going to obey; Jesus or the judge.  Be assured that it is your right to affirm and not swear.

In our society, contracts are meant to be broken, marriage vows are not till death do us part, but until the first one commits adultery or just plain gets bored and wants a change.  Parents make vain promises to their children all of the time.  Even without promises, most people’s word is worth very little.  GOD HATES THIS!

The LORD Hates Liars, Double Minded, Covent (Oath, VOW & Promise)Breakers

James 1:8 KJV A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

 James 4:8 KJV Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

Proverbs 6:16-19 KJV These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him:  (17)  A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,  (18)  An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,  (19)  A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.

Romans 1:28-32 KJV And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;  (29)  Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,  (30)  Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,  (31)  Without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:  (32)  Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

2 Timothy 3:1-5 KJV This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.  (2)  For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, (3) Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,  (4)  Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;  (5)  Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, thank you for showing me your stand on vows, oaths and swearing.  Help me to always be truthful.  Help me to always leave my problems at the foot of the cross; at the altar of God and to believe in your promises, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Copyright © 2006, 2011  Thomas C. Blake 

The Essentials Of The Bible: Part 60 -- God Judges And Restores The People – Naomi Plays Matchmaker

Naomi announces one day that it is time for Ruth to marry and she cites the kindness of Boaz as a sign that he is probably interested in her.  That night was to be a celebration of  completing the harvest at the threshing floor.  They would thresh their wheat and then celebrate with food and drink, staying all night with their harvest.

Ruth 3:2 ESV Is not Boaz our relative, with whose young women you were? See, he is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor.

Commentary on Ruth 3:2 “…he winnoweth barley to-night in the threshing-floor” — “The winnowing process is performed by throwing up the grain, after being trodden down, against the wind with a shovel. The threshing-floor, which was commonly on the harvest-field, was carefully leveled with a large cylindric roller and consolidated with chalk, that weeds might not spring up, and that it might not chop with drought. The farmer usually remained all night in harvest-time on the threshing-floor, not only for the protection of his valuable grain, but for the winnowing. That operation was performed in the evening to catch the breezes which blow after the close of a hot day, and which continue for the most part of the night. This duty at so important a season the master undertakes himself; and, accordingly, in the simplicity of ancient manners, Boaz, a person of considerable wealth and high rank, laid himself down to sleep on the barn floor, at the end of the heap of barley he had been winnowing.”  Jamieson Fausset and Brown Commentary

Naomi instructed Ruth to bathe and put on perfume and dress in her best clothes.  When Boaz was finished eating and drinking, she was to wait until he laid down to sleep; then she was to uncover his feet and lay down at his feet and wait for him to tell her what to do.  And so Ruth did all that Naomi instructed.

Ruth 3:7-11 ESV And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. Then she came softly and uncovered his feet and lay down.  (8)  At midnight the man was startled and turned over, and behold, a woman lay at his feet!  (9)  He said, "Who are you?" And she answered, "I am Ruth, your servant. Spread your wings over your servant, for you are a redeemer."  (10)  And he said, "May you be blessed by the LORD, my daughter. You have made this last kindness greater than the first in that you have not gone after young men, whether poor or rich.  (11)  And now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you ask, for all my fellow townsmen know that you are a worthy woman.

Commentary on Ruth 3:9 “The mantle of the Redeemer”   

I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman — She had already drawn part of the mantle over her; and she asked him now to do it, that the act might become his own. To spread a skirt over one is, in the East, a symbolical action denoting protection. To this day in many parts of the East, to say of anyone that he put his skirt over a woman, is synonymous with saying that he married her; and at all the marriages of the modern Jews and Hindus, one part of the ceremony is for the bridegroom to put a silken or cotton cloak around his bride.  Jamieson Fausset and Brown Commentary

Protection Of Inheritances And Securing Heirs

There are some very important principles at play in the story of Ruth and Boaz.  Inheritances are very important to the LORD.  He set up a number of safeguards to protect against a man’s generations loosing their inheritance.  Every 7^th year was a year of release and all debts were forgiven.  Our modern day bankruptcy laws were founded on this concept.  Then, every 50^th year was a year of restoration; all property diverted back to the original family.  God safeguarded inheritances so that no one person could forever destroy the family inheritance. 

The principle of redemption for salvation gives us safeguards against losing our eternal inheritance to sin.  Jesus Christ is the Redeemer.  But even in Bible times a person had to claim their redemption, just as we have to do by repenting and being baptized in Jesus name and receiving the Holy Ghost.  Israel was rescued time after time.  At Christ’s return, Israel will be restored; and the twelve sons/tribes of Israel will be the twelve gates of the Holy City and forever be the access to the throne of the Lamb.

Revelation 21:12 KJV And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:

Ruth had married Mahlon, a man from the tribe of Judah, the son of Elimelech, a man from Bethlehem in Judah.  When he died, it was the responsibility of a “kinsman” also referred to as a “redeemer;” that is the next closest relative; it was his responsibility to marry her and produce an heir for her dead husband Mahlon.  Naomi believed that Boaz was the kinsman.  Among the Israelites, if a man died without an heir, his brother was to marry his brother’s widow and produce an heir for his dead brother; as described in detail below; in Deuteronomy 25.                   

Deuteronomy 25:5-10 KJV (5)  If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband's brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to wife, and perform the duty of an husband's brother unto her.  (6)  And it shall be, that the firstborn which she beareth shall succeed in the name of his brother which is dead, that his name be not put out of Israel.  (7)  And if the man like not to take his brother's wife, then let his brother's wife go up to the gate unto the elders, and say, My husband's brother refuseth to raise up unto his brother a name in Israel, he will not perform the duty of my husband's brother.  (8)  Then the elders of his city shall call him, and speak unto him: and if he stand to it, and say, I like not to take her; (9)  Then shall his brother's wife come unto him in the presence of the elders, and loose his shoe from off his foot, and spit in his face, and shall answer and say, So shall it be done unto that man that will not build up his brother's house.  (10)  And his name shall be called in Israel, The house of him that hath his shoe loosed.

When Ruth uncovered Boaz’s feet and lay at his feet, she was claiming him as her husband’s redeemer/kinsman for an heir.  However, Boaz was not the nearest kinsman.  Boaz wanted to marry Ruth, but the nearest kinsman would have to deny Ruth.  So Boaz sets a plan in motion by which to get the nearest kinsman to default so the Boaz could marry Ruth.  Early in the morning, Boaz arranges for ten of the city elders to be at the gate, as witnesses when the other kinsman comes to the gate.  He first states that Naomi is selling the property of her dead husband Elimelech and that if he wanted it he needed to redeem it, if not Boaz wanted it.  The kinsman wanted the land until Boaz informed him that he would have to marry Ruth as well and hold the property as an inheritance for Mahlon’s heirs.  Since Boaz wanted Ruth the other kinsman took off his sandal and gave it to Boaz and said, “Here you Buy it (the land);” which also meant, “here, you marry her.”  This was the custom of their day and it was witnessed by ten of the elders.

Ruth 4:5-8 ESV Then Boaz said, "The day you buy the field from the hand of Naomi, you also acquire Ruth the Moabite, the widow of the dead, in order to perpetuate the name of the dead in his inheritance."  (6)  Then the redeemer said, "I cannot redeem it for myself, lest I impair my own inheritance. Take my right of redemption yourself, for I cannot redeem it."  (7)  Now this was the custom in former times in Israel concerning redeeming and exchanging: to confirm a transaction, the one drew off his sandal and gave it to the other, and this was the manner of attesting in Israel.  (8)  So when the redeemer said to Boaz, "Buy it for yourself," he drew off his sandal.

Boaz married Ruth with the approval and blessing of the entire town and they proclaimed blessings on their first born son and said, may he be famous in all of Israel.  That son, Obed, became the father of Jesse and grandfather to King David.

Ruth 4:13-14 ESV So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. And he went in to her, and the LORD gave her conception, and she bore a son.  (14)  Then the women said to Naomi, "Blessed be the LORD, who has not left you this day without a redeemer, and may his name be renowned in Israel!  (16)Then Naomi took the child and laid him on her lap and became his nurse. (17)  And the women of the neighborhood gave him a name, saying, "A son has been born to Naomi." They named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.

Prayer:  Almighty Father, you make all things work together for good to those who love the LORD.  Thank you for blessing me.  Lead me in your paths daily, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

     

Copyright © 2006, 2011  Thomas C. Blake       

The Essentials Of The Bible: Part 59 -- God Judges And Restores The People – Boaz: Beyond Law Into True Benevolence

Because of the great famine in the land, a man from Bethlehem in Judah, named Elimelech, his wife Naomi and their two sons, Mahlon and Killion moved to Moab.  After settling there, Elimelech died.  Naomi’s two sons married Moabite women.  One married Orpah and the other married Ruth.  Ten years later both Mahlon and Killion died.  Three widows and no men to support them, they could not stay together.  Both of Naomi’s daughter-in-laws loved her and were willing to follow her back to Judah.    Naomi convinced Orpah to return to her parents, but Ruth clung to Naomi.  Ruth pledged never to leave Naomi; that she would go where she went, live where she lived and make Naomi’s people her people.  So they traveled to Judah.  When they arrived in Bethlehem, all of the town was excited and welcomed Naomi home.  She told them of her tragedy.  It was barley harvest time in the spring.       

Ruth 1:19-22 ESV So the two of them went on until they came to Bethlehem. And when they came to Bethlehem, the whole town was stirred because of them. And the women said, "Is this Naomi?"  (20)  She said to them, "Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me.  (21)  I went away full, and the LORD has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi, when the LORD has testified against me and the Almighty has brought calamity upon me?"  (22)  So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabite her daughter-in-law with her, who returned from the country of Moab. And they came to Bethlehem at the beginning of barley harvest.

Boaz was a wealthy and influential man in Bethlehem, who was also a relative of Naomi’s late husband.  It was a custom to allow the poor to pick up what was left behind by the harvesters.  It was actually a law in Israel, not to harvest the corners of the fields, but to leave them for the poor to “glean.”   

Leviticus 19:9-10 ESV "When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap your field right up to its edge, neither shall you gather the gleanings after your harvest.  (10)  And you shall not strip your vineyard bare, neither shall you gather the fallen grapes of your vineyard. You shall leave them for the poor and for the sojourner: I am the LORD your God.

Ruth and Naomi had no source of income and so Ruth offered to glean behind the harvesters wherever she would be allowed to do so.  It was no coincidence that she found herself gleaning in Boaz’s field; but he noticed her and asked his foreman about her.  Being told that she was not only the Moabite woman staying with his relative’s widow, but that she was a hard worker; he personally greeted her and invited her to stay in his field to glean.  He also assured her that none of the men would bother her and that she should help herself to water, whenever thirty.  Ruth humbly expressed her appreciation saying that she didn’t deserve his kindness, being that she was a foreigner.  Boaz tells her that he had heard of all that she had done for her mother-in-law, leaving her own father and mother to travel with Naomi back to Judah and he blesses her.

Ruth 2:11-12 ESV But Boaz answered her, "All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully told to me, and how you left your father and mother and your native land and came to a people that you did not know before.  (12)  The LORD repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge!"

When it was mealtime, Boaz invited her over to share in the food and she was able to eat her fill and still have leftovers to take with her.  He went even further to tell his men to allow her to harvest even among the sheaves and to purposely drop barley in Ruth’s path.  By the end of the day, she had filled an entire basket.  She was very excited to tell Naomi all that had happened and she gave her the leftovers from the meal.  Naomi told Ruth to follow Boaz’s instructions; he was showing kindness for both of their dead husbands who were his relations.  So Ruth continued in Boaz’s fields through both the barley and the wheat harvests; living with her mother-in-law.

Ruth 2:23 ESV So she kept close to the young women of Boaz, gleaning until the end of the barley and wheat harvests. And she lived with her mother-in-law.

A FURTHER COMMENT ON THE LAW OF GLEANING

“And when ye reap the harvest of your land, thou shalt not wholly reap the corners of thy field — The right of the poor in Israel to glean after reapers, as well as to the unreaped corners of the field, was secured by a positive statute; and this, in addition to other enactments connected with the ceremonial law, formed a beneficial provision for their support. At the same time, proprietors were not obliged to admit them into the field until the grain had been carried off the field; and they seem also to have been left at liberty to choose the poor whom they deemed the most deserving or needful (Rth_2:2, Rth_2:8). This was the earliest law for the benefit of the poor that we read of in the code of any people; and it combined in admirable union the obligation of a public duty with the exercise of private and voluntary benevolence at a time when the hearts of the rich would be strongly inclined to liberality.” Jamieson Fausset & Brown Commentary

Boaz had gone far out of his way for Ruth and Naomi.  Clearly he went above and beyond the letter of the law and formed a precedent for Voluntary Benevolence that Jesus Christ later magnified and has been carried down through the ages to our present time; making the Bible, truly a book ahead of its time and for all ages.

Matthew 25:35-36 40 KJV For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:  (36)  Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.  (40) And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, forgive me for what I have left undone in giving.  Soften my heart to freely give of the blessings that you have given and of your love, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Copyright © 2006, 2011  Thomas C. Blake 

The Essentials Of The Bible: Part 58 -- God Judges And Restores The People – Samson and Delilah

Samson was a continual annoyance to the Philistines and they sought his life at every opportunity.  One day he went to the small town of Gaza and spent the night with a prostitute.  The men of Gaza surrounded the house and waited until morning to kill him.  At midnight Samson slipped away and took hold of the gates of the town and removed them, with their posts and cross bar intact; carrying them to the top of the hill in Hebron.

Judges 16:3 ESV But Samson lay till midnight, and at midnight he arose and took hold of the doors of the gate of the city and the two posts, and pulled them up, bar and all, and put them on his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that is in front of Hebron.

After this Samson fell in love with Delilah.  The Philistines paid her 1,100 pieces of silver to seduce Samson and find out the secret of Samson’s great strength.  So began a cat and mouse game of Samson teasing Delilah about his strength.  First he told her that if he was bound with seven fresh bow strings that have not been dried, then he would be as weak as any man.  With men lying in wait to ambush him, Delilah bound Samson and then says, "The Philistines are upon you, Samson!"  But he snaps the bow strings as if they were burnt in the fire.  The Delilah said, "Behold, you have mocked me and told me lies. Please tell me how you might be bound."  Then Samson said that if he were bound with new ropes, then he would be as weak as any man.  Again he snapped the ropes.  Then he told  her that he would become weak if the seven locks of his hair were woven together and held with a pin; again he broke free.  Delilah challenged his love and tormented him day after day with her nagging until Samson was sick of it.  Finally he told her his secret, that a razor has never touched his head and that his strength was in his hair.  She realized that this was finally the truth and she set another trap for him by lulling him to sleep; she cuts off his hair.  When the Philistines came, she said, "The Philistines are upon you, Samson!"  He arose not knowing that the LORD had left him.  His strength was not in his hair, but in his obedience to the LORD.  His power and might was the LORD in him.  He was seized, bound and his eyes were gouged out.  He was taken to Gaza in shackles and put to work grinding at the mill in the prison.

Judges 16:21-22 ESV And the Philistines seized him and gouged out his eyes and brought him down to Gaza and bound him with bronze shackles. And he ground at the mill in the prison.  (22)  But the hair of his head began to grow again after it had been shaved.          

Samson had a lot of time to think about his life and disobedience to God.  The people mocked and ridiculed him, saying “Our god has delivered our enemy.”  But Samson’s hair grew and the Spirit of the LORD returned to him.  His prayers and repentance were heard by the LORD.  The lords of the Philistines gathered all of the people to sacrifice to their god, Dagon, and to rejoice because their god had delivered their enemy, Samson into their hands.  They called to have Samson entertain them and he was brought up out of the prison and taken to the temple of Dagon.  Then Samson said to the young man who led him by the hand, "Let me feel the pillars on which the house rests, that I may lean against them."  There were 3,000 men and women at the temple that day to worship Dagon.

Judges 16:27 ESV Now the house was full of men and women. All the lords of the Philistines were there, and on the roof there were about 3,000 men and women, who looked on while Samson entertained.

Samson then called upon the LORD to give him strength just once more and to avenge him for his two eyes.  Then Samson stood between the two pillars and pushed against them until they moved and the house fell and all 3,000 people died that day with Samson.  The number that he killed at his death; were more than he killed in his life.

Judges 16:28-30 ESV Then Samson called to the LORD and said, "O Lord GOD, please remember me and please strengthen me only this once, O God, that I may be avenged on the Philistines for my two eyes."  (29)  And Samson grasped the two middle pillars on which the house rested, and he leaned his weight against them, his right hand on the one and his left hand on the other.  (30)  And Samson said, "Let me die with the Philistines." Then he bowed with all his strength, and the house fell upon the lords and upon all the people who were in it. So the dead whom he killed at his death were more than those whom he had killed during his life.

Three great lessons can be learned from this story:

1. Obedience is supreme with the LORD
2. Our strength comes from the LORD
3. We see more through our hearts than through our eyes

Prayer:  Almighty Father, my LORD, fill me with the Holy Ghost that give me all power in Christ Jesus.  Lead me in obedience, trusting in your strength and not my own.  Give me a heavenly vision to see through my heart, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Copyright © 2006, 2011  Thomas C. Blake 

The Essentials Of The Bible: Part 57 -- God Judges And Restores The People – Samson’s Riddle Starts A War

Samson’s parents brought him up just as the LORD instructed, and the LORD blessed Samson and the Spirit of the LORD began to stir within him.  One day when he was in the town of Timnah, a Philistine woman caught his attention and he fell in love with her.  He told his father that he had to get her for him.  His father asked him, “Why must you take a pagan Philistine woman for a wife.  Can’t you find a bride among the Israelite women?”  But Samson insisted on the Philistine woman.  What Samson’s father didn’t realize, was that the LORD’s hand was in this to create an opportunity to work against the Philistines. 

On their way down to Timnah, Samson was attacked by a lion and the Spirit of the LORD was upon him and he ripped apart the jaws of the lion with his bare hands, killing the lion.  His parents, who had gone with him didn’t see the attack and Samson didn’t tell them.  In Timnah, Samson talked with his bride to be as his parents started making plans for the wedding.

On his way back to Timnah for his wedding, Samson turned off of the path to see where he had killed the lion.  In its carcass, a swarm of bees had made honey.  Samson scooped up a handful of honey to eat.   He gave his mother and father some honey, but didn’t tell them where he got it.  In Timnah, Samson had a great party to celebrate his marriage, and his in-laws invited thirty young men to attend and celebrate with him.  Samson then gave his guests a riddle; if they solved it within the seven day celebration, then Samson would give each of his thirty companions a new linen robe and a set of festive clothing; if they didn’t solve it then they would have to give Samson thirty linen robes and thirty sets of festive garments.  They agreed.  The riddle was this;

“Out of the one who eats came something to eat;

out of the strong came something sweet.”

When they could not solve the riddle after the fourth day, they threatened Samson’s wife, if she didn’t get the answer for them.  They threatened to burn down her father’s house with her in it!  After many tears and being relentless for the answer, Samson told her.  She explained it to the men.      On the seventh day of the celebration, just before sunset, they came to Samson with the answer:

            “What is sweeter than honey? 

      What is stronger than a lion?”

Judges 14:18 ESV And the men of the city said to him on the seventh day before the sun went down, "What is sweeter than honey? What is stronger than a lion?" And he said to them, "If you had not plowed with my heifer, you would not have found out my riddle."

Samson was furious, and the Spirit of the LORD fell upon him and he went to Ashkelon and killed thirty men and took theirs robes and clothing and fulfilled his bet with the thirty men.  Then he went back to his father’s house and his wife was given in marriage to his best man.         

Judges 14:19-20 ESV And the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon him, and he went down to Ashkelon and struck down thirty men of the town and took their spoil and gave the garments to those who had told the riddle. In hot anger he went back to his father's house.  (20)  And Samson's wife was given to his companion, who had been his best man.

After some days had past, and it was harvest season; Samson took a lamb to his wife, but her father would not let him in.  When he found out that his wife had been given to his best man, Samson’s anger turned to rage.

Judges 15:1-3 ESV After some days, at the time of wheat harvest, Samson went to visit his wife with a young goat. And he said, "I will go in to my wife in the chamber." But her father would not allow him to go in.  (2)  And her father said, "I really thought that you utterly hated her, so I gave her to your companion. Is not her younger sister more beautiful than she? Please take her instead."  (3)  And Samson said to them, "This time I shall be innocent in regard to the Philistines, when I do them harm."

Remember it was harvest time and the whole year’s income was in the fields.  Samson caught 300 foxes and tied their tails together in pairs with a torch; lit the torches and let the foxes run through all of the fields of the Philistines.  He burned all of the grain, including the cut sheaves along with all of the vineyards and olive orchards.  All was destroyed!  

When the Philistines found out that Samson had done this because of his father-in-law giving away his bride; they went down to her house and burned to death the woman and her family.  Then Samson vowed his vengeance on the Philistines for what they had done to his wife.

Judges 15:4-7 ESV So Samson went and caught 300 foxes and took torches. And he turned them tail to tail and put a torch between each pair of tails.  (5)  And when he had set fire to the torches, he let the foxes go into the standing grain of the Philistines and set fire to the stacked grain and the standing grain, as well as the olive orchards.  (6)  Then the Philistines said, "Who has done this?" And they said, "Samson, the son-in-law of the Timnite, because he has taken his wife and given her to his companion." And the Philistines came up and burned her and her father with fire.  (7)  And Samson said to them, "If this is what you do, I swear I will be avenged on you, and after that I will quit."

Then the Philistines retaliated against the Israelites.  The 3,000 men of Judah confronted Samson and told him that they were going to bind him and turn him over to the Philistines, but they promised him that they would not do him any harm.  Samson made them swear not to attack him themselves.  So they handed Samson over to the Philistines, bound with two new ropes.

Then the Spirit of the LORD was upon Samson and he broke his bonds as it they were paper.  Finding the jawbone of a recently killed donkey, he took it and slew 1,000 men.

Judges 15:11-16 ESV Then 3,000 men of Judah went down to the cleft of the rock of Etam, and said to Samson, "Do you not know that the Philistines are rulers over us? What then is this that you have done to us?" And he said to them, "As they did to me, so have I done to them."  (12)  And they said to him, "We have come down to bind you, that we may give you into the hands of the Philistines." And Samson said to them, "Swear to me that you will not attack me yourselves."  (13)  They said to him, "No; we will only bind you and give you into their hands. We will surely not kill you." So they bound him with two new ropes and brought him up from the rock.  (14)  When he came to Lehi, the Philistines came shouting to meet him. Then the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon him, and the ropes that were on his arms became as flax that has caught fire, and his bonds melted off his hands.  (15)  And he found a fresh jawbone of a donkey, and put out his hand and took it, and with it he struck 1,000 men.  (16)  And Samson said, "With the jawbone of a donkey, heaps upon heaps, with the jawbone of a donkey have I struck down a thousand men."

After this exhausting battle, Samson was very thirsty and cried out to the LORD and the LORD caused water to gush out from a hollow in the ground.  Then Samson judged Israel for the next twenty years, during the time that the Philistines dominated the land.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I am here to accomplish your will for my life.  Even when things look like they are against me, you have a plan for my life.  Help me to trust you LORD in all things, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Copyright © 2006, 2011  Thomas C. Blake 

The Essentials Of The Bible: Part 56 -- God Judges And Restores The People – Samson Is Born

The LORD always knows the end from the beginning and He has always chosen people that fulfill His purpose.  As we continue in the book of Judges, the Israelites again went off to serve foreign gods and their evil reached heaven and the LORD’s anger was once again kindled.  This time, the LORD gave them over to the Philistines for forty years.  As you read and study the stories of the Old Testament and the relentless belligerent attitude of Israel; there are really only two perspectives to embrace before God.  It is easy to condemn Israel for their sin; yet my belief is that God has given us these accounts for us to see our own human nature, that; “There go I but by the grace of God.”   We need these stories.  Reading them brings us closer to the LORD and total reliance upon Him.  It is easier to rely upon the LORD in times of crises, than it is to rely upon Him in all things; when we are in a time of blessing.  Trials can drive us to our knees.  During the times of abundance is when we need to remember God even more.

Deuteronomy 8:10 KJV When thou hast eaten and art full, then thou shalt bless the LORD thy God for the good land which he hath given thee.

The LORD wants us to come to Him when we think that we don’t need Him.  He wants us to seek His help and intervention in stead of relying upon our self.  Any parent wants the attention of their children.  Though we want our children to be able to stand on their own; we want them to share their lives with us on into adulthood.  The LORD wants the same of us. 

Proverbs 3:5 KJV  Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

The LORD wants us to share our day; seek His help and guidance in ALL things, no matter how trivial they may seem to us.  This is one of my own struggles.  It is easy to run off in my own direction to do things on my own ability and talent.  Jesus said that we are to become like little children before Him; that means to have the innocent trust for the LORD.

Matthew 19:13-14 KJV Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.  (14)  But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 18:3-4 KJV And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.  (4)  Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

That is why it is so important to pray first thing every day in the morning and last thing at night before bedtime.  Just as we want our children to spend time with us and to begin and end their days with us, so does the LORD.  My parents raised us to hug and kiss them first thing in the morning and last thing before bedtime.  My father spent an hour, first thing in the morning and an hour at night, just before bedtime, in prayer and meditation.  We all need to focus on the LORD and what He wants us to do and how He wants us to do it.  The more time we spend with the LORD, the more we will hear His voice.  We can’t be lead away from the LORD if we are always in communication with Him through reading the WORD, prayer and meditation.

Proverbs 3:6 KJV In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths

The Israelites enjoyed the good times too much and relied on their favor, instead of relying upon the LORD.  Cut just a few fibers on a brand new rope and it will slowly start to unravel.  The little things count with the LORD as well as the big things.  Life is all about building a relationship with the LORD.

A Child to the Childless

To a childless couple, the LORD appeared and made the promise of a son.  Manoah, from the town of Zorah and his wife respected the LORD.  The angel of the LORD appeared to the woman and promised her a son.  Specific instructions were given for her during her pregnancy as well as instructions for raising the boy.  He was to be a Nazarite, a child dedicated to God from birth; which involved three specific life long requirements:

1. Abstinence from wine and strong drink,
2. Refraining from cutting the hair off the head during the whole period of the continuance of the vow, and
3. The avoidance of contact with the dead.

Judges 13:5 KJV For, lo, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and no razor shall come on his head: for the child shall be a Nazarite unto God from the womb: and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.

The woman ran to tell her husband of her incredible encounter.  Manoah prayed that the messenger of the LORD would return and give them more instructions.  This couple was obviously not one of the typical back-sliding Israelites; they were anxious to serve the LORD and had His favor!  The Angel of the LORD returned and visited with them. 

Manoah wanted to detain the messenger in order to prepare a meal and He agreed to stay but asked Manoah prepare a burnt offering, saying that He would not eat of Manoah’s bread.  So a kid was prepared for an offering and when the flames came up from the altar, the Messenger of the LORD went up in the flames to Heaven.  

Judges 13:19-20 KJV So Manoah took a kid with a meat offering, and offered it upon a rock unto the LORD: and the angel did wondrously; and Manoah and his wife looked on.  (20)  For it came to pass, when the flame went up toward heaven from off the altar, that the angel of the LORD ascended in the flame of the altar. And Manoah and his wife looked on it, and fell on their faces to the ground.

Manoah’s wife did give birth to a son and they called him Samson.  As the child grew, the LORD blessed him.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, you work in wondrous ways.  Help me to lean upon you in all things, to come to you as a child, innocent and pure, with excitement; trusting you in all things.  Help me to be anxious for nothing; but to do all things prayerfully in the LORD, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

A Break From The Story: Speaking God’s WORD Into Your Life

During the first decade of this century, many fiery trials came my way.  Through them, God redirected my life and taught me many lessons.  Through these experiences, a pastor friend gave me books and audio messages on Faith, Healing and Speaking God’s promises in my life.   For the past several years, speaking God's WORD into my life has been a daily practice.   God has put it upon my heart today to take a break from our series lessons in order to share this with you.

This is a guide to praying by confessing our faith.  Profess your prayers out loud and with feeling.  This material is derived loosely from Charles Capps’ materials (God’s Creative Power For Your Life) .  It is only a guide, although, if prayed three times a day or more (verbatim); during difficult times of (physical, emotional, spiritual or financial) challenges, it will have a profound effect.  The affirmations and scriptures were modified from the Capps’ materials in order emphasize more the building up of high towers of strength, instead of pulling down of strongholds.  Building a high tower and a mighty fortress in the Lord; leaves no room for the Devil to get a stronghold.  This is a positive approach.  I encourage you to check out Charles Capps' website at http://www.charlescapps.com/.

                                                                    

This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalms 118:24 KJV

It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.                                          Lamentations 3:22-23 KJV

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Proverbs 3:6 KJV

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Philippians 4:13 KJV

What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

Romans 8:31 KJV

There is Power in the name of JESUS!

THE LORD’S PRAYER Matthew 6:9-13 KJV (Make this prayer live by expounding on each section/phrase)

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven (acknowledge God personally & acknowledge His greatness), Hallowed be thy name (Praise and worship Him & His name JESUS). Thy Kingdom come, (acknowledge His Kingdom in YOU and that you are an ambassador of Christ & all that it means). Thy will be done in earth (in this earthen vessel, your life…ultimately in the entire world), as it is in heaven (You are a pioneer of the Kingdom of Heaven). Give us this day our daily bread (don’t ask as much as make this a thanksgiving of God and His daily provisions Spiritually, Emotionally, Physically; in relationships with Him, family, friends and coworkers). And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors (pray for a forgiving heart toward all who have ever trespassed against you…realize that if you pray for forgiveness and don’t forgive others; you may be praying a curse upon yourself)  . And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil (acknowledge that you are helpless over temptation & evil.  Only by the Holy Ghost living in you and God’s Grace & Mercy being renewed continuously{more than daily} that you will be able to walk in His righteousness): For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory (Glorify, praise and worship Jesus our Father at the end as well as the beginning of each segment of prayer), for ever.  {in Jesus’ name,}Amen.  

A Psalm of David Psalms 23:1-6 KJV (Pray this Psalm directly to God;  “You Lord Jesus are…”)

The LORD is my shepherd (You Lord Jesus are my Shepherd); I shall not want. He (You) maketh me to lie down in green pastures: (You) he  leadeth me beside the still waters. (You) He restoreth my soul: (You) he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for (Your) his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the (Your house O Lord for ever) house of the LORD for ever.                                                               

Rejoice in the LORD Psalms 33:1-22 (in part) KJV (We are made in God’s image and have His power of speaking blessings into existence…on the breath of his (our) mouth…this is an awesome thought.

Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright. Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto him with the psaltery. Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise. For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth. He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD. By the Word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. … Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast…The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance. The LORD looketh from heaven; he beholdeth all the sons of men. From the place of his habitation he looketh upon all the inhabitants of the earth. He fashioneth their hearts alike; he considereth all their works. There is no king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not delivered by much strength. An horse is a vain thing for safety: neither shall he deliver any by his great strength. Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy; To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine. Our soul waiteth for the LORD: he is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name (JESUS) . Let thy mercy, O LORD, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.

Paul said “I die daily,” meaning that he renewed the Gospel daily; that is the Death, Burial and Resurrection of Jesus Christ (repentance, baptism & speaking in tongues).  Pray in tongues as the Spirit moves you.

Father in Heaven forgive me for I am a sinner and guilty of the blood and body of Christ.  Create in me a clean heart my O Lord; and renew a right spirit within me.  Cast me not away from your presence and take not your Holy Spirit from me.  Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation and uphold me by thy free spirit.  Then will I teach transgressors thy ways and sinners shall be converted unto thee and enter the Gospel.  I rebuke the Devil in Jesus name.

*****

Jesus you bore all my sin, sickness and carried my pain.  You overcame the tempter and his destruction, making a pathway to life and truth; giving me victory over all things.  For God sent his word and healed me.   Ps. 107:20

*****

Jesus you bore all things on the tree therefore I’m alive and reconciled unto God.  And by your blood I am clean and by your stripes I am healed and made whole and free.  I have the victory in Jesus’ name.     I Pet. 2:24; Rom. 6:11; II Cor. 5:21

*****

Jesus you are the Lord of my life.  Wellness and wholeness are the power over me   I am clean, renewed and free in you Lord Jesus.   I am alive unto righteousness.  Jesus you are my high tower of strength, power and courage.  The devil has no power over me.  I rebuke you Satan in Jesus name.  Col.1:21, 22

*****

You have given me power over my flesh.  I am free for the love of God is shed abroad in my heart by the Holy Ghost.   Mt. 6:12; Rom. 5:5

*****

Father because of your word I am an over comer.  Jesus you are the way, the truth and the life. I’ve overcome the world, the flesh and the devil, by the blood of the Lamb and the word of my testimony.   Rev. 12:11

*****

You have given me abundant life, and I receive that life through your word, and it flows to every organ of my body bringing healing and health.  The Holy Ghost is in me giving me all power over my flesh.   John 10:10; John 6:63

*****

Heavenly Father I attend to your word, I incline my ear to your sayings.; they are always with me and your word is before my eyes; I keep them in the midst of my heart; for they are life and healing to all of my flesh.   Prov. 4:20-22

*****

As God was with Moses, so he is with me.  My eyes are well and my natural forces are restored.  Blessed are my eyes for they see and my ears for they hear.   My heart, mind, spirit and soul are connected to you Lord.   Deut. 34:7

*****

Goodness and blessings pursue me.  Wellness, health and safety guard my dwelling (spiritually, emotionally,  mentally, physically & financially); for you Lord Jesus, have given your angels charge over me; they keep me in all of my ways.  In my pathway are life, healing and health (spiritually, emotionally, mentally, physically & financially).   Ps.91:10, 11; Pro. 12:28

*****

Jesus, you healed me and filled me with the perfection of health and wholeness.  The life of God flows within me, bringing healing to every fiber of my being.   Mt. 8:17; John 6:63

*****

I am under the blessings of grace and truth; they flow in my blood stream; and they flow to every cell of my body restoring life, healing and health (spiritually, emotionally, mentally, physically & financially).   Mt. 11:23; Luke 17:6

The life of 1^st Peter 2:24 (Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.) is a reality in my flesh; restoring every cell of my body.  I present my body to God; for it is the temple of the LIVING GOD.  God dwells in me and his life permeates my MIND,SPIRIT, SOUL and BODY.  I am filled with the fullness of God daily.  God has given me power over my flesh.   Rom. 12:12; John 14:20

*****

My body is the temple of the HOLY GHOST.  I make a demand on my body to release right chemicals.  My body is in perfect chemical balance.  My pancreas secretes proper amounts of insulin for life and health.  My blood sugar level is 90.  I am full of energy as if I were 21 again in perfect health.  I Cor. 6:19

*****

Heavenly Father, through your word, you have imparted your life to me.  That life restores my body with every breath I breathe and every word I SPEAK in faith.  I claim the promises and proclaim my DIVINE INHERITANCE.   

John 6:63; Mark 11:23

*****

That which God has NOT planted is dissolved and rooted out of my body in Jesus’ name.  1^st Peter 2:24, is engrafted into every fiber of my being and I am alive with the life of God.  Satan and death have no power!   Mark 11:23; John 6:63

*****

Jesus, you bore the curse for me; therefore only blessings of perfect health inhabit my body.  The life of God within me forbids anything not of God.  I live in your will.  My strength and my health are restored in Jesus’ name. 
Matt. 16:19
                                                                                           *****

All is well and in perfect health with me.  Only blessings can inhabit my body.  My life is the light of Christ; he is my way and I live in truth.    Col.1:13, 14

*****

Every organ and tissue of my body functions in the perfection that God created them to function.  The Holy Ghost is my fountain of youth.  Wellness and wholeness flows from me; my hair and my skin more youthful everyday, in Jesus’ name.  Gen.1:28

*****

Father, Lord Jesus, your word has become a part of me; it is flowing in my blood stream and it flows to every cell of my body; restoring and transforming my body.  Your word has become flesh, for you sent your word and healed me.  You have restored me to youthfulness to do your work and fulfill your will.   James 1:21; Ps. 107:20; Pro. 13:13

*****

Jesus, your word is manifest in my body causing radiant and perfect health.  My skin is clear and restored to the perfection of its created state. My bones and joints are in perfect condition.  I make a demand on my bones and joints to function properly, in Jesus’ name.  You are with me always continually restoring health and renewing my energy.  I live within your will every moment of my life.  You are ever with me and in me.  Mark 11:23; Matt. 17:20

*****

Heavenly Father as I give voice to your word, the law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus makes me free from the law of sin and death.  Your life is energizing every cell of my body.   Rom. 8:12

*****

I speak to my bones and joints; you are in perfect created condition.  My Blood Pressure is normal. My eyes are in perfect health.  My circulatory and nervous systems are whole and well and carry life to every cell of my body. Wellness pursues me. My spine and skeletal system is in perfect created condition.  My sinus passages are open, giving me sound, unbroken and deep sleep.  My blood is rich in iron and is whole unto wellness.   My feet, hands and fingers are in perfect health.  I am in completely perfect health. The spirit of God is upon me and the word of God is within me.  All is well because God’s word is my confession.   Mark 11:23

Thank you Father I have a strong heart.  My heart beats with the rhythm of life.  My blood flows to every cell of my body restoring life and health abundantly.  My weight is (returning/maintaining) good health.  I am lean and strong and walk with the power of God.   Prov. 12:14; Pro. 14:30

*****

My blood pressure is 110 over 70.  The life of God flows within my blood; cleansing my arteries of all matter, that does not pertain to life.   Mark 11:23

*****

My pulse is normal at 60.  My heart beats with the rhythm of life; carrying the life of God throughout my body; restoring LIFE and HEALTH ABUNDANTLY.  John 17:23; Eph. 2:22

*****

I have a strong heart.  Every heart beat floods my body with life and cleanses me of disease and pain. Ex. 23:25; Mark 11:23

*****

I command my blood cells to function properly and keep me in health.  I command every cell of my body to be normal in Jesus’ name.  Rom. 5:17; Luke 17:6

*****

Every cell that does not promote life and health in my body is cut off from its life source.  My immune system is perfect in Jesus’ name.   Luke 17:6; Mark 11:23

*****

My heart beats with the rhythm of life.  The spirit life, of God’s word, flows within me; cleaning my blood of every disease and impurity.   Prov. 4:20-23

*****

In the name of Jesus;  arteries you are clean and elastic and function as God created you to function.   Luke 17:6; Mark 11:23 Isa. 55:11; James 3:2-5

*****

The law of the spirit of life, in Christ Jesus, has made me free from the law of sin and death; only wellness and the Spirit of God will lord over me.   Rom. 8:2; Rom 6:13, 14

*****

The same spirit, that raised Jesus from the dead, dwells in me; permeating his life through my veins; sending healing throughout my body, mind, spirit and soul.  I am spiritually, emotionally, mentally, physically & financially whole.   Rom 8:11

*****

In Jesus’ name my body lives in truth.  Body, you will remain strong and work to produce health and wholeness.  Every cell of my body supports life and health.  Matt 12:25, 35

*****

My immune system grows stronger day by day.  I speak life to my immune system.  The same spirit that raised Christ from the dead dwells in me; and quickens my immune system with the life and wisdom of God; which guards the life and health of my body.  I have the strength and perfection of youth.

*****

I speak to the bones and joints of my body; I call you normal in Jesus’ name.  The spirit life of Jesus permeates every bone and joint of my body with life and health.  Father I make a demand on my bones to produce perfect marrow.  I make a demand on the marrow to produce sufficient and pure blood that ensures wellness. In Jesus’ name. Prov. 16:24

I make a demand on my joints to function perfectly.  Prov. 17:22

*****

Feet/Spine/Internal organ(s) and/or Financial/Personal Relationships, etc. [what ever is your specific ailment(s) or condition(s)], I speak words of faith to you and demand that you return to normal.  Be restored fully in Jesus’ name!  Let my life reflect strengths in this/these area(s).

*****

Body, I speak words of faith to you.  I demand that every organ perform a perfect work; for you are the temple of the Holy Ghost; therefore I charge you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ; and by the authority of his holy word to be healed and made whole in Jesus’ name.   Pro12:18

*****

Father I yield only to your righteousness.  I require my body to be strong and healthy and I enforce it with your word.  I enforce life in this body.   James 4:7

*****

I will not die, but live and declare the works of God.   Father, you have blessed me with skills and gifts; restore order in my life and home.  Use these skills to serve your church.  You have blessed me with spiritual gifts.  Further develop and use these gifts to praise and worship you.  Thank you Lord for giving me the gift of healing and the gift of prophesy.  Thank you for anointing my preaching.     Ps. 118:17

*****

Father in heaven, bring my family and friends to repentance and baptism in Jesus name.  Fill them with the Holy Ghost and speaking in tongues.   Relieve all debts.   I declare all of their loans and debt paid in full.  Chaos and confusion must flee from their lives.  Jesus, my Lord, turn their hearts to me as well, that we can proclaim Christ together in oneness.

*****

You have forgiven all of my iniquities.  You have healed all of my diseases.  You have redeemed my life from destruction.  You have satisfied my mouth with good things so that my youth is renewed as the eagles.  Only wholeness and health can inhabit my body.  I am in your perfect will Lord.  Ps. 103:2-5

*****

Father, your church is a hospital for the sick and needy.  We find wholeness and wellness there for our mind, body spirit and soul.  Bless the church around this world.  Let it be a beacon of light to all, for we are that church.  We are that light, the light of Jesus shinning in us and through us.  Bless the UPCI & Crystal Lake United Pentecostal Church (Insert your own local church).  Put a hedge of protection around the leadership & pastoral team.  Bless all leaders and the people.  Father, bless Pastor Beardsley’s vision.  Bless our church and every individual with perfect health (spiritually, emotionally, mentally, physically & financially).  Keep us all safe from the evil one.  Give us strength over the world and the pulls of the flesh.  We are weak, but in you we are strong.  Help us to daily and first put on the WHOLE Armor of God; the Belt of Truth, Breastplate of Righteousness, Shoes of the Gospel, Helmet of Salvation, Sword of the Spirit which is your Word, the Shield of Faith and Praying Always, with all prayer, supplication and intercession for one another!  Let us pray without ceasing (living in a prayerful state; doing all prayerfully); being instant in prayer!

*****

FOR SINGLES -- Father, from the beginning you never wanted us to be alone.  Let your will be manifest in my life.  Bring a help mate to me of your choosing.  Let that person be a blessing from heaven and not a curse of my own will.  Let me put all things into your hands both small and great.  My life is 100% yours and in your total will.  All things are possible with God.  The past is behind let Jesus Christ and His ministries guide my future.  Lead me to what you are blessing.

*****

Lord you have blessed my food and water and have taken sin, sickness and pain, away from me; therefore I will fulfill the number of my days in health and abundant joy.  I will grow day by day in my relationship with you; looking forward to the marriage supper of the Lamb when I will be caught up to meet you Lord in the air.  So shall I ever be with you Lord, a part of the bride of Christ; dwelling in unity, peace and love for all eternity.  I love you Jesus and embrace you with my life, hugging and  kissing you forever. Ex. 23:25, 26; I Thess. 4:17 

Copyright © 2006, 2011  Thomas C. Blake