" In the very first month of the first year of his reign, Hezekiah reopened the doors of the Temple."
2 Chronicles 29:3
2 Chronicles 29:3
Sorry about this girls. Here's the video. Smile.
My Take Aways
Something Old:
I saw myself so clearly here in verses 3-7 of 2 Chronicles.
When I allowed my King to reopen and repair the doors of my heart things begin to start happening in my life. The Holy Spirit began to take over my heart. He purified me by helping me remove the defiled parts of my heart and life. I had willingly snuffed out the Light and made sacrifices to false gods.
v15
It became extremely important to me to carefully obey all the Lord's instructions.
Something New:
2 Chronicles 30:10-27
It is amazing how many made fun of the runners. Only a few humbled themselves. I am reminded of how many today refuse to humble themselves to the "runners" of the gospel today.
Something to Do:
Praise God that my Temple has been restore to His service. Recommit my life to His service and not my glory but His.
This might be the day I sit in the pew where George Washington and Thomas Jefferson worshiped the same God I love and worship.
18 Comments:
Hi all,
I'm off for the weekend. Tomorrow morning my dad and I are going to my aunt's for the weekend. She and my uncle have a house on a lake and my aunt from Seattle, WA will be visiting along with my two cousins, my sister and her husband, and children. I'm looking forward to it.
I looked ahead to see what our reading will be for the next three days because I will be without my computer this weekend and all I can say is I can't wait to read each day.
Good morning, GIGs,
Jennifer Renee, have a wonderful time at the lake with your family. Travelling mercies to you!
Well, I just want to shout HALLELUIJAH about today’s reading. Easy to understand (smile), great news, and a wonderful, straight-forward message we can use to fortify us in our efforts to be “in the remnant”. Let’s hear it for King Hezekiah!”
As I began today’s reading, I wrote in my notes “Did the people really want to do this, or were they just following King Hezekiah’s orders?” Then as I read on it became apparent that some were half-hearted about suddenly “getting religion”, but they kept pressing on, and God helped them along, “little by little”. He smoothed the way so that the Temple was prepared in record time. In 2 Chronicles 30:12, we read “At the same time, God’s hand was on the people in the land of Judah, giving them all one heart to obey the king and his officials.” In verse 20, we learn that the Lord did NOT punish those who ate the Passover meal not properly cleansed. Hezekiah PRAYED that they be allowed to eat, “And the Lord listened to Hezekiah’s prayer and healed the people.” (I am reminded of Amy’s decision earlier this week to change her fast day. Looks like that’s okay, Amy. Your heart is in the right place - smile)
There’s lots in today’s reading about God hearing prayers, a timely message for any day! In Verse 27, “Then the priests and Levites stood and blessed the people, and God heard their prayers from his holy dwelling in heaven.”
And the final verse today, “In all he did...in his efforts to follow God’s laws and commands, Hezekiah sought his God wholeheartedly. As a result, he was very successful.”
And all God’s GIG’s said, AMEN!!!
Jan, soooo good to hear from you, Sister. You are on my prayer list!!
Have a blessed, 4:8 day all. Prayers for all, and a few extras for Jacque and Michael, Jennifer Renee, Elizabeth, and busy Jan at her Christian camp.
Peace and Gratitude,
Michelle in New England
P.S. A mother duck and her 4 babies live outside my lake view hotel room, and that busy, watchful, ever nearby mother duck reminds me of all the mothers in Wendy Land. Love ya, all!
Good morning, GIGs,
Jennifer Renee, have a wonderful time at the lake with your family. Travelling mercies to you!
Well, I just want to shout HALLELUIJAH about today’s reading. Easy to understand (smile), great news, and a wonderful, straight-forward message we can use to fortify us in our efforts to be “in the remnant”. Let’s hear it for King Hezekiah!”
As I began today’s reading, I wrote in my notes “Did the people really want to do this, or were they just following King Hezekiah’s orders?” Then as I read on it became apparent that some were half-hearted about suddenly “getting religion”, but they kept pressing on, and God helped them along, “little by little”. He smoothed the way so that the Temple was prepared in record time. In 2 Chronicles 30:12, we read “At the same time, God’s hand was on the people in the land of Judah, giving them all one heart to obey the king and his officials.” In verse 20, we learn that the Lord did NOT punish those who ate the Passover meal not properly cleansed. Hezekiah PRAYED that they be allowed to eat, “And the Lord listened to Hezekiah’s prayer and healed the people.” (I am reminded of Amy’s decision earlier this week to change her fast day. Looks like that’s okay, Amy. Your heart is in the right place - smile)
There’s lots in today’s reading about God hearing prayers, a timely message for any day! In Verse 27, “Then the priests and Levites stood and blessed the people, and God heard their prayers from his holy dwelling in heaven.”
And the final verse today, “In all he did...in his efforts to follow God’s laws and commands, Hezekiah sought his God wholeheartedly. As a result, he was very successful.”
And all God’s GIG’s said, AMEN!!!
Jan, soooo good to hear from you, Sister. You are on my prayer list!!
Have a blessed, 4:8 day all. Prayers for all, and a few extras for Jacque and Michael, Jennifer Renee, Elizabeth, and busy Jan at her Christian camp.
Peace and Gratitude,
Michelle in New England
P.S. A mother duck and her 4 babies live outside my lake view hotel room, and that busy, watchful, ever nearby mother duck reminds me of all the mothers in Wendy Land. Love ya, all!
Jennifer Renee,
Enjoy your time with family. It sounds fabulous.
Michelle,
What a serene scene from your window - a great way to start the morning. Thanks for posting the Stormie prayer yesterday. I am going through the Power of a Praying Wife right now.
It was a very uplifting read today. I can picture them worshiping in the temple using some of David's instruments and listening to the psalms he wrote. What a day that must have been.
The nuggets that spoke to me were:
2 Chron 29:11 My sons, do not neglect your duties any longer! The Lord has chosen you to stand in his presence,
*My mind goes to our unsaved loved ones. We have been chosen to stand on behalf of our spouses, our children. Our duty is to minister to them and pray for them.
v.31 and all whose hearts were willing
* This is the only requirement God has for us - for our hearts to be willing to obey whatever He asks us to do.
2 Chron 30:9 9 “For if you return to the Lord, your relatives and your children will be treated mercifully by their captors, and they will be able to return to this land. For the Lord your God is gracious and merciful. If you return to him, he will not continue to turn his face from you.”
* Our God is the God of second/third/fourth, etc. chances. Our children may not be walking with the Lord but if we repent and turn to Him, He will hear us.
2 Chron 30:12 At the same time, God’s hand was on the people in the land of Judah, giving them all one heart to obey the orders of the king and his officials, who were following the word of the Lord.
* God can touch the hearts of the people - when the time is right. My job is to be patient.
2 Chron 31:21b Hezekiah sought his God wholeheartedly. As a result, he was very successful.
* This is the key. Hezekiah prayed and sought God wholeheartedly. Wholeheartedly - not with a divided or doubting heart. Sometimes my heart doubts when I do not see the answer to my prayers right away. But thank you, Father, that you are gracious and merciful.
May we seek our God wholeheartedly, dear GIGs.
Ya’ll, guess what, month wise we have completed ½ of our journey! Can you believe it? This is a journey, and goal I never want to end! Smile!
The reading was good today, and I just have to say Amen, to Michelle’s HALLELUJAH! I’m so glad I’m part of His chosen few, --studying His Word with you guys!
My little nugget today came from 2 Chron. 30:22.
“the skill they displayed”
“Served the LORD”
The Lord created each one of us with a unique skill to serve Him. We each have a purpose and this is what we are called to do.
Thank you dear Lord for your Word. Thank you that Jesus live’s in each one of our heart’s. Thank you for your daily guidance. Keep each one of us seeking you as we go about our day. Give us a heart like you have. Place your eyes over our eyes so we can see people the way you see them. Open our ears to hear you – don’t let us get too wrapped up into our own selves. Help us to show compassion to those around us. Lord, protect each one of us. Watch over Wendy and bring her home safely. Thank you, that you have given us this group – together we are seeking to know You more. We love you with all of our hearts. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Enjoy today! Love, Lori
Jacque – Praying that today you feel God’s hand guiding you along, that when you begin to feel heavy, that you stop and lift it up to God. Keep praising Him to keep the enemy behind you.
Jennifer Renee,
If Jesus were to come back today, you’d be swooped away in a matter of a second, and I do believe you’d see the whole experience, too! Your eyes would be opened wide and you would be full of His glory. The devil loves to put thoughts in our little heads to try and get us to compare ourselves with those around us. He is bombarding our minds all day long – any chance he gets. God loves you and is pursuing you right now in His own way.
He allowed Jesus to come into my heart when I was five. But, between then and I’d guess around 45, he was there constantly –protecting me, --- I attended church for the most part, and said little tiny prayers when I “needed” him. That was it. I did not know, what I did not know! Then, it was not until MUCH later, was when a friend invited me to attend a Beth Moore Bible Study. At about the same time, I began “hearing” the sermons. God was beginning His work. Each study gave me a thirst to know God more. I began to enjoy the Bible and I looked forward to doing the homework lessons. But, it was not till Wendy’s invitation to join her in reading through the Word in 2009, did I completely fall flat over my heals for Jesus! It was about this time that I read in a book, Jesus said: Men ought always to pray, and not to give up (Luke 18:1), and Paul pleaded with us to pray without stopping (I Thes 5:17). Jennifer Renee, when I read this, I could not get it out of my mind. I still ponder over these 2 verses. I started praying to God. how is this humanly possible? You know how I’ve said it before that I pray daily: Lord, I want to know you better, through your Word… Well, I’ve also been praying, Lord teach me how you want me to pray. I want to know you through my daily prayers. Give me your Words to pray for others. Show me how to pray your way. Give me a deeper desire to want to pray.
The last one and a half years, God is showing me how this is possible, but it has NOT been an over-night happening. It’s been bit by bit--- and slowly, God in His graciousness, is enlightening me in small chunks. I’ve learned that when we are heavily burdened for someone it becomes natural to pray without giving up. It’s on your mind all day long. The only way to get through a day is to pray –that is the only way to experience His peace and keep the enemy away. Personally, I’ve noticed, too, that when we are on the front row witnessing His mighty miracles, it’a a natural instinct that He gives us, that we just want to lift up praises and thanks to Him. I’m learning more each day that to read His Word is a necessity. I have learned, that when we read His Word each day, He guides us to the next step. We don’t have to do anything, but be willing and have humble heart to want to know Him more. Also, the longer I do this, the more He places the desire in my heart to want to do it. It’s a longing that He has given me. It’s nothing I did. Each day His Word becomes more precious to me than the day before. It’s my daily prayer, that never, never would I lose out on this zeal that I have for Him.
He is going to work in each one of us differently. That is why I have learned to go to Him with my questions. As long as we read His Word daily, He will guide us. He loves each one of us more than we can even imagine! Hugs, Lori
Was there a video blog today or am I the only one that did not get one? I so miss Wendy if it is a day without her sweet guidance on her face to face.
Lori,
You have the gift of encouraging words, sister. Your prayers are spot on. I thank God for bringing you to this group!
Anonymous,
No video. I almost had palpitations when I did not see one last night. So glad she posted something this morning! I did not realize how much I need my Wendy-fix everyday.
The video is up and running! Wendy has spoiled us rotten, what will we ever do after the year is over? We just won’t think about that today, girls!
G & P – you are too sweet! Daily, I thank God for your wise digging! I always feel that you bring much to our plate! All of us do-in our own God given way! Smile! We each, I guess, have a different ‘skill that he allows us to display!’ smile.
Loving hugs for you today sweet GP! Lori
I am just appreciating Wendy's personal testimony so much. I too struggle with cleansing my temple.As far as television goes,I would love to know how you girls decide on what is a good show. I can't imagine what kind of shows Wendy is tempted by that would not be good for her temple, however, there is a lot of garbage on tv.The obvious garbage is easy. It is Satan's subtle garbage that is difficult. Sometimes I wonder if we should just get rid of the tv altogether. What do you ladies think?
Hi Everybody,
Purify….
Today’s reading so many different places in the beginning …..they were told to purify themselves…Today pondering what needs to be purified in Me. (This temple I am blessed to be living in). Good reminder for Me today. Need to do more than just a Spring and Fall cleaning. Everyday cleaning …Being in his word everyday (Thanks Lori). Lord, I cannot do it on my own ….show Me (Us) what corners need some dusted (defiled) off each and every day. Today Rhonda….start with am I selfish? I will be thinking about this throughout my day. Tomorrow am I forgiving? Peace Compartment? Faith Compartment…Lord, I am going to need your help BIG on this one. Your Love Compartment? Joy Compartment? Patience Compartment? Kindness compartment? Self-Control Compartment? Generosity Compartment? Gentleness Compartment? Wendy I can’t believe this I wrote this before viewing you vlog …but you reminded me also to clean my Pride Compartment.
…..and than came this verse:
2 Chronicles 30:17, Since many of the people had not purified themselves, the Levites had to slaughter their Passover lamb for them, to set them apart for the LORD.
Took Me too our Jesus (our Passover Lamb)…..Since many of the people had not purified themselves. What he did for Us. Unexplainable!!
G&P….Was nice seeing your post. I was having this sense something was wrong? Is everything okay? You really are a blessing to us.
Karen….Sweet Sister….Thank You for the Babylon information. Raising my Admiration you all do this to Me everyday.
Jennifer Renee….You have a wonderful time. Lori said so much truth about you….and great information on how to pray.
Lori….I love you too….We would be lost without you and our Wendy.
Wendy…..Thanks for blessing us this week!!
Blessings All!!!!! Son is telling Me to come on. Have a few things to do before His game tonight.
My run being one of them…. “ the verse about the runner”….Don’t know what is happening here….but I feel something (Pruify)…..Hezekiah sought his God wholeheartedly. As a result, he was very successful.
(9 more days of training)….
Thank You Lord our Passover Lamb,
Rhonda
Faithfulness to God:
Dear Lord, help us to worry not so much about being successful for you but about being faithful to you.
Book From: 39 New saints You should know
By: Brian O’neel
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Hello Everyone,
Enjoying all the comments, but I just wanted to add something to Grace & Peace. Thank you for all the digging you do, I really enjoy your breaking down of the scriptures.
I copied your comments into my journal and pondered over them. Then I summarized them. "May I/Franny, have a dutiful, willingly obedient, repentant, and patient heart, whole heartedly seeking God." Sounds like a mission statement for me.
Off to walk and ponder some more.
Canada Day Celebrations here today, off to see fireworks tonight.
Blessings,
Franny
Lori & Franny,
Thanks for the kind words. God has me in the "learning" season and it's great to share my finds.
Rhonda,
Thank you for your concern. You know the feeling when you are waiting for God to answer your prayers? That's where I am right now re my Dad, my husband and my older son ~ and patience is not one of my virtues! But as I was reading some scriptures for 31 Days to Pray for our Husbands (thanks, Amy!) on Day 25 God gave me 3 scriptures for my 3 concerns:
Psalm 31:24 Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord. (re my Dad)
Ephesians 6:13 Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done ALL to STAND FIRM. (re my Husband)
Psalm 27:14 Wait for the Lord;
be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! (re my older son)
God is good. :)
Hi all,
I am one of the “audience members,” who follows daily and posts occasionally. I love coming here to be filled up—it is the BEST place ever!
When I started this study in January, I did not think I would use my journal much, because I am not known for journaling. Here it is July 1, and my journal is full, halfway through the year!
Lori, would you please add my children to the list:
Ethan (11)
Avery (9)
Addison (4)
The older two are at Catholic Youth Camp this week—such a fun way to learn about God and community! We pick them up tomorrow.
You all are so wonderful—I cannot even imagine my life before this study! Incredible!
Jennifer--Iowa
Hi Sisters - I am still reading along and watching the videos, but haven't posted as regularly as I would like to.
You all continue to help me so much in applying the Word to my life. I am starting to actually come up with the same nuggets as many of you.
Please add my 22 year old daugher, Chante' to the prayer list.
Thank you
Kelly
It feels so late to be reading through all of this today, but I've been gone all day, and I'm happy to have a video to come home to!
Lori, thanks for explaining how you've learned to be such a powerful prayer warrior. Your wisdom and love for God is obvious, and it is definitely both inspiring and encouraging. There may be hope for me yet!
Michelle, I didn't make the connection between the changes in their eating plan and my fast day. Thanks for pointing that out! I feel much better now. :-)
The very first few sentences contained my nugget for today. Hezekiah restored the Temple. When? Hezekiah didn't wait to get used to being king, or wait until he was more popular, or wait until he had more time, or until he wasn't so tired from a late night baseball game the night before ;-) - he began right away after taking the position to restore the Temple. We were all up too late last night and it was so tempting to stay in bed for just a bit because I knew the kids would sleep in, but Jesus was still calling. Waiting would only invite interruptions. I want to be like Hezekiah and be charging after what's right, no matter how inconvenient or messy life may be at the time.
I too am coming in rather late. I have been working 8 days in a row. And, not the Beatles song. I am finding just how busy and out of sync we can be in this world. No wonder God had to hit me with a brick. I miss all his whispers.
I have to share--
My daughter had a tutor for the 2 years she missed school due to her cancer. This tutor was placed in our lives to help us both during this time. Placed by God.
Now she has her miracle--her son Foster did not speak until 5 days ago. He is age 7. Now he is so talkative and interesting to listen to. She prayed and was so patiently waiting for God's intervention in her life.
What a wonderful testimony to His Glory!
Please, say many prayers for my daughter Kelly on July 6th. She is having her 3 month scans to determine if her cancer came back. She had such a horrible prognosis that these scans really take a toll on my family.
I am so thankful to have God accompany me and just pray no more relapses, no more cancer.
Thank you
Susie
Wisconsin
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