July 01, 2018: SOAP #3132: Isaiah 1-3; Titus 3

Scripture:  Isaiah (NIV) 1:11 “The multitude of your sacrifices—what are they to me?” says the LORD. “I have more than enough of burnt offerings, of rams and the fat of fattened animals; I have no pleasure in the blood of bulls and lambs and goats….  16 wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight! Stop doing wrong, 17 learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.

Observation:   The neighboring nations around Israel served idols.  They worshipped their idols by bringing sacrifices.  They brought food and drink that their god might need. But their idols were dead, needing nothing.

Israel worshipped the one, true, living God.  He also needed nothing!  Not because He is dead, but because He is the Creator of all things! The purpose of Israel’s sacrifices to the living God was to teach them about the One promised to come.   God would send His Son, Jesus, to be the sacrifice for their sins.  God did not need their sacrifices for Him, but. how THEY needed His SACRIFICE for them!!!!

Application:  God was not so interested in the sacrifice they made; He was interested in THEM!   And God is not so interested in what I can give Him; He is interested in me!   I cannot give God something He needs, but I can give him someone He loves—me!

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, I am the sacrifice you desire.  May my life be pleasing to you.  When I please you, I have the greatest joy and You have the greatest glory.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!

June 30, 2018: SOAP #3131: Amos 7-9; Psalm 104:  Titus 2

Scripture:  Psalm (NIV) 104:24 How many are your works, O LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. …
31 May the glory of the LORD endure forever; may the LORD rejoice in his works —

Observation:   This is a song about creation.  The glory and wisdom of God is seen everywhere in the world He created.

Everyone should be able to enjoy their works, and so should God.  His works should bring him joy.  Man is the part of creation that has the power to bring Him the greatest joy, also has the power to bring Him the greatest sorrow. \

Application:  My joy is to bring God joy.  I know there is much in this world that has broken with His purpose.  I know there are things that bring Him sorrow.  May my heart be a place He enjoys.

Prayer:    Heavenly Father, I want to live this day in honor of You.  May I bring joy to your heart and a smile to your face.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!