DAY 12 - SPECIAL ISRAEL - MESSIANIC MESSAGE - JUNE 5, 2013

June 5

A Great Reminder Every Week of Messianic Hope

By howard silverman

Categories: messianic


The first ten chapters of the Book of Numbers is about how the Jewish people prepared to march to the promised land. They got themselves organized; they also made sure that they were inwardly organized by purging sin from their midst and being spiritually prepared. By the time we get to chapter ten, they are ready to go. At the end of the chapter we see that the Ark moves first – ahead of the people and the cloud is upon them to guide them along the way. Then Moses says these words:

Then it came about when the ark set out that Moses said, “Rise up, O LORD! And let Your enemies be scattered, And let those who hate You flee before You.” (Num 10:35) The picture that we see is one of tremendous confidence in the Lord to reach the land.

This verse is repeated in Psalm 68:2 and Psalm 132:8. In each case the verse is used to exude confidence in the power of God to bring to pass his promises. In Psalm 132 the verse is used to give assurance that the promise of a Davidic dynasty will come to pass.

This verse is a reminder to us that the Messiah has come and in him is the victory. We can have confidence that God will indeed rise up and scatter the enemies. When Yeshua came he defeated sin and death in his own death and resurrection. When he appears again he will bring victory to the Jewish people over her enemies and he will be the final king of Israel.

What is of special interest to me is the fact that the words of Moses are repeated every week when we open the Aron HaKodesh. When we open the Ark we sing: Then it came about when the ark set out that Moses said, “Rise up, O LORD! And let Your enemies be scattered, And let those who hate You flee before You.” (Num 10:35 NAU) Therefore every week we are reminded that we can still have confidence in God to bring his words to pass. As we lift the Torah out of the Ark we are reminded that his word abides forever and that the Messiah will return and bring the final peace to this world.
But there is more…

I find it amazing that after singing Numbers 10:35, we continue to sing…ki mitzion tetze torah… this is the last part of Isaiah 2:3 ” For the law will go forth from Zion And the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. ” This verse is clearly a promise of messianic peace and faith. Evidently the Sages of old who organized this liturgy identified Numbers 10:35 as a verse that not only was about the wilderness wanderings but also applied to the victory of God in the end of days when the Messiah will bring peace and the Word of God will be the way of life of the world. What other reason could there be for placing these two verses together in such a prominent spot in the Torah service?

Every week therefore we sing…Then it came about when the ark set out that Moses said, “Rise up, O LORD! And let Your enemies be scattered, And let those who hate You flee before You.” ” For the law will go forth from Zion And the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. “

The Rabbis (without realizing it) give us a great statement that we sing every week of messianic hope that has begun to be fulfilled in Yeshua! Indeed he has risen up and scattered the enemy. He goes before us and defeats the enemy so we can move forward in our journey. In Yeshua we have the assurance that the day will come when he will be bring peace to the world and his word will have universal acceptance.

Rabbi Howard Silverman is the Spiritual Leader of Beth Messiah Congregation. Beth Messiah is a community of Jewish people, intermarrieds and Gentile people who embrace Yeshua (Jesus) as the Messiah and are committed to Jewish life and practice. Howard is also a past President of the Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations. He serves on the Board of the Messianic Studies Institute as well as an instructor.

Howard’s academic interests include the Hebrew Bible, Biblical Studies, Rabbinic Literature, biblical exegesis of both Hebrew and Greek Scriptures. He is currently (forever?) a graduate student at The Ohio State University in Near Eastern Languages and Cultures. His passion is to study and teach the Word of God and to share the Good News of Yeshua the Messiah. He is concerned about issues affecting Judaism, the Jewish people, Israel and the Messianic Jewish community.

http://yeshuamatters.wordpress.com/

DAY 12 - DAILY PRAYER (ISRAEL) - JUNE 5, 2013

June 5

God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob,

As a nation that has stood in the gap for Israel, we beseech Your continued guidance for our leaders. May they continue to call Israel a friend, and support their cause for all that You have given them. In these troubling times in the world's view of Israel, may You grant a renewed strength to the leaders and people people of Israel, and all that have called upon Your Holy name! Lord, continue to bless all nations that bless Israel, and may the United States of America continue to benefit from this union in friendship and peace with Israel.

In Jesus' name. Amen!

Wally Ziolo
40DAYPRAYER4USA
Lancaster, Ohio
Christian

DAY 12 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (SHOULD CHRISTIANS SUPPORT THE NATION OF ISRAEL?)

June 5

Question: "Should Christians support the nation of Israel?"

Answer: Christians should definitely support the nation of Israel. We must remember that Israel, the nation, is very special to God. We read inDeuteronomy 7:6-8these words: "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession. The LORD did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the LORD loved you and kept the oath he swore to your forefathers that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery, from the power of Pharaoh king of Egypt."

God's eternal purpose is to bless the world through Israel. Already He has done so in measure, for "salvation is from the Jews" (John 4:22), but the fullness of future blessing is indicated in the wondrous promise ofIsaiah 27:6: "In days to come Jacob will take root, Israel will bud and blossom and fill all the world with fruit."

The declaration that "salvation is from the Jews” suggests our immeasurable debt to Israel. All that we have worth having has come to us through the Jews. Our Bible is a Jewish Book, and our Savior is a Jewish Savior. Let us never forget to pray for God's chosen people. It is true that Israel, today, is in the place of rejection. The nation is a secular, unbelieving (as to the claims of Scripture and their Messiah, Jesus Christ) nation; but "…at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace" (Romans 11:5). Some Jews are being saved and are becoming members of the body of Christ through faith in their Messiah.

Jews are, biblically speaking, the "chosen people of God" and dearly loved by Him. Another reason for Christians to support the nation of Israel is because of the Abrahamic Covenant. We read of God’s promise inGenesis 12:2-3, "I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you" (see alsoGenesis 27:29;Numbers 24:9).

One of the United States’ most worthwhile accomplishments has been its consistent regard for the plight of the Jewish nation. No nation in the history of the world has a better record of treating individual Jews with respect than does America. The same can be said for our befriending Israel as a nation. America has committed many sins for which we may well deserve judgment, but as a nation, we have been a consistent friend of the Jews and the nation of Israel, as well as a benefactor. In 1948, President Harry Truman helped persuade the United Nations to recognize Israel as a nation. Since then, the United States has contributed billions of dollars in aid to Israel.

From the biblical declarations of God's love and care for His chosen people, the nation of Israel, and from the history of nations being destroyed because of their evil dealings with God's chosen people, the Jews, Christian believers should give support to the chosen people of God. This is not to say that we support necessarily the methods they use in their relationships with the Arab nations. The Bible warned that conflict would always characterize the relations between the descendants of Isaac and Ishmael. Sadly, this conflict will continue until Jesus comes back to judge the nations and sets up His 1,000-year reign of peace on earth. We must look at the "big picture” with a biblical worldview. While we do not have to support everything Israel does as a nation, we most definitely should support Israel’s right to exist. God will fulfill His promises and covenants with Israel. God still has a plan for Israel. Woe to anyone who seeks to defeat that plan; “whoever curses you I will curse” (Genesis 12:3).

Recommended Resources:Understanding the Arab-Israeli Conflict: What the Headlines Haven't Told You, Revised and Updated, by Michael Rydelnik.



While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.

Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/support-Israel.html#ixzz2VJO3Etpu

DAY 12 - DAILY HISTORY - AMERICAN MINUTE FOR JUNE 5, 2013

June 5

American Minute for June 5th:

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JUNE 5, 1967, the Six-Day War began.

Egypt sent 80,000 troops and 900 tanks to attack Israel.

Jordan and Syria, with Soviet weapons, violently shelled Jerusalem and Israeli villages. Cairo radio announced:

"The hour has come in which we shall destroy Israel."

The hot line between Washington and Moscow was used for the first time.

In a surprise move, Israeli Air Force destroyed 400 Egyptian planes, courageously drove Syria from the Golan Heights and captured all of Jerusalem.

In a CBS-TV interview, Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion stated:

"In Israel, in order to be a realist you must believe in miracles."

Seven months after the War, on Jan. 7, 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson toasted Israeli Prime Minister Levi Eshkol, saying:

"Welcome to our family table...

All Americans-and all Israelis-know...that none...can ever live by bread alone...

One of your ancestors said it for all men almost 2,000 years ago...for peace it is written, 'pursue it.'

That is our intention in the Middle East...To pursue peace...

If we are wise, if we are fortunate, if we work together - perhaps our Nation and all nations may know the joys of that promise God once made about the children of Israel:

'I will make a covenant of peace with them...it shall be an everlasting covenant.'"

On February 5, 1996, Margaret Thatcher stated:

“We have to remember that the Jewish people never, ever lost their faith in the face of all the persecution and as a result have come to have their own promised land and to have Jerusalem as a capital city again.”

In April 3, 2002, while serving as House Majority Whip, Tom DeLay stated in a speech at Westminster College, titled “The Bonds of Freedom”:

The State of Israel has fought five major wars to defend its right to exist since 1948...

Israel and America are kindred nations. The founders of both countries were profoundly influenced by faith. Both countries drafted governments that practice religious tolerance. Both countries are filled with immigrants summoned by dreams...

Freedom is alive in Israel today. We can't allow the lone light of democracy to be extinguished by a wave of hatred."


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DAY 11 - DAILY BIBLE VERSE (RAISE YOUR HANDS)- JUNE 4, 2013

June 4

Exodus 17:11-13 (The Voice Bible)

11 It happened that whenever Moses raised his hand, the battle went well for Israel; but whenever he lowered his hand to rest, Amalek began to win. 12 When Moses became too tired to hold his hands up any longer, Aaron and Hur took a stone and sat him down on it. Then both men stood beside Moses, one on each side, holding his hands up and keeping them steady until sunset. 13 In the end, Joshua and the men of Israel defeated Amalek and his soldiers with the sword.

DAY 11 - DAILY DEVOTION - JUNE 4, 2013

June 4

God Is There
Posted on February 15, 2013 by katherine


As I look at my beautiful purple & white flowers & smell their lovely fragrance, I have to keep in mind that they will die in a few days & be gone… That reminded me of the scripture, “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the Word of our God stands forever.”

Aren’t you thankful that God never deteriorates, dis-appears, tarnishes, vanishes, wastes away, or wilts? He is always there and so is His Word!

DAY 11 - DAILY PRAYER (GREED) - JUNE 4, 2013

June 4

Prayer for Those in Military Service

God of compassion,
we pray for military personnel,
offered for the sake of others,
and separated from family and loved ones.
Care for them; meet their needs.
Grant them courage, compassion, strength,
and all they need for the living of these days.
Sustain them through their every trial.
Remind them of the humanity they share
even with those who are called "the enemy;"
through Jesus Christ our Lord we pray. Amen.

http://www.beliefnet.com/Prayers/Protestant/Military/Prayer-For-Those-In-Military-Service.aspx

DAY 11 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT A CHRISTIAN SERVING IN THE MILITARY?)

June 4

Question: "What does the Bible say about a Christian serving in the military?"

Answer:The Bible contains plenty of information about serving in the military. While many of the Bible’s references to the military are only analogies, several verses directly relate to this question. The Bible does not specifically state whether or not someone should serve in the military. At the same time, Christians can rest assured that being a soldier is highly respected throughout the Scriptures and know that such service is consistent with a biblical worldview.

The first example of military service is found in the Old Testament (Genesis 14), when Abraham's nephew Lot was kidnapped by Chedorlaomer, king of Elam, and his allies. Abraham rallied to Lot's aid by gathering 318 trained men of his household and defeating the Elamites. Here we see armed forces engaged in a noble task—rescuing and protecting the innocent.

Late in its history, the nation of Israel developed a standing army. The sense that God was the Divine Warrior and would protect His people regardless of their military strength may have been a reason why Israel was slow to develop an army. The development of a regular standing army in Israel came only after a strong, centralized political system had been developed by Saul, David, and Solomon. Saul was the first to form a permanent army (1 Samuel 13:2;24:2;26:2).

What Saul began, David continued. He increased the army, brought in hired troops from other regions who were loyal to him alone (2 Samuel 15:19-22) and turned over the direct leadership of his armies to a commander-in-chief, Joab. Under David, Israel also became more aggressive in its offensive military policies, absorbing neighboring states like Ammon (2 Samuel 11:1;1 Chronicles 20:1-3). David established a system of rotating troops with twelve groups of 24,000 men serving one month of the year (1 Chronicles 27). Although Solomon's reign was peaceful, he further expanded the army, adding chariots and horsemen (1 Kings 10:26). The standing army continued (though divided along with the kingdom after the death of Solomon) until 586 B.C., when Israel (Judah) ceased to exist as a political entity.

In the New Testament, Jesus marveled when a Roman centurion (an officer in charge of one hundred soldiers) approached Him. The centurion’s response to Jesus indicated his clear understanding of authority, as well as his faith in Jesus (Matthew 8:5-13). Jesus did not denounce his career. Many centurions mentioned in the New Testament are praised as Christians, God-fearers, and men of good character (Matthew 8:5;27:54;Mark 15:39-45;Luke 7:2;23:47;Acts 10:1;21:32;28:16).

The places and the titles may have changed, but our armed forces should be just as valued as the centurions of the Bible. The position of soldier was highly respected. For example, Paul describes Epaphroditus, a fellow Christian, as a “fellow soldier” (Philippians 2:25). The Bible also uses military terms to describe being strong in the Lord by putting on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-20), including the tools of the soldier—helmet, shield, and sword.

Yes, the Bible does address serving in the military, directly and indirectly. The Christian men and women who serve their country with character, dignity, and honor can rest assured that the civic duty they perform is condoned and respected by our sovereign God. Those who honorably serve in the military deserve our respect and gratitude.

Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandBible Answers for Almost all Your Questions by Elmer Towns.

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While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.



Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/military-Christian.html#ixzz2VIulhwFt

DAY 11- DAILY HISTORY - AMERICAN MINUTE FOR JUNE 4, 2013

June 4

American Minute for June 4th:

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In 1942, Imperial Japan invaded Singapore and took around 25,000 prisoners. Next was the Philippines.

With Imperial Japan's relentless bombardment by planes and heavy siege guns, President Franklin D. Roosevelt did not want General Douglas MacArthur captured, so he ordered him to leave Corregidor, Philippines, and evacuate to Australia.

General Douglas MacArthur obeyed, March 11, 1942, but not without promising, "I shall return."

The turning point in the Pacific War began JUNE 4, 1942.

American intelligence intercepted Imperial Japan's plans to capture Midway Island and from there, Hawaii and the rest of the Pacific.

The outnumbered U.S. Pacific Fleet attempted a desperate ambush of the Imperial Japanese armada, but was losing badly.

When the Imperial Japanese fleet suddenly changed its course, the American torpedo dive-bombers searched for it in vain, with many of their escort fighters running out of fuel and ditching in the ocean.

Lieutenant-Commander John Waldron, who led the torpedo dive-bomber squadron from the U.S. carrier Hornet, told his men the night before:

"My greatest hope is that we encounter a favorable tactical situation, but if we don't, I want each of us to do our utmost to destroy the enemies. If there is only one plane to make a final run in, I want that man to go in and get a hit. May God be with us."

Waldron's squadron was the first to spot the Imperial Japanese fleet. Flying in at low altitude, they suffered the full focus of the Imperial Japanese defenses. Out of 30 of Waldron's men who took off that morning, only one survived.

Their sacrifice was not in vain, as it benefited the other American torpedo dive-bomber squadrons from the U.S. carriers Enterprise and Yorktown, who arrived about an hour later, flying at a much higher altitude.

Navigating by guess and by God, they sighted far below, through a break in the clouds, the four Japanese aircraft carriers: Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, and Hiryu.

Providentially, this was at the precise moment when most of the Imperial Japanese "Zero" fighter planes were busy being refueled and rearmed after fighting Waldron's squadron, or had just taken off to attack the U.S. carrier Yorktown.

In just five minutes, the screeching American torpedo dive-bombers sank three Imperial Japanese carriers, and a fourth shortly after.

In just moments, Imperial Japan's naval force had been cut in half, resulting in them being forced to go on the defensive.

Lieutenant-Commander John Waldron received the Navy Cross posthumously.

After the Battle of Midway, plans were begun to free the Philippines.

During Imperial Japan's occupation of the Philippines, they forced Filipino and American prisoners on the horrible Bataan Death March, where over 10,000 died. When he heard of this, General Douglas MacArthur stated, April 9, 1942:

"To the weeping mothers of its dead, I can only say that the sacrifice and halo of Jesus of Nazareth has descended upon their sons, and that God will take them unto Himself."

President Roosevelt said, August 12, 1943:

"Three weeks after the armies of the Japanese launched their attack on Philippine soil, I sent a proclamation...to the people of the Philippines...that their freedom will be redeemed...The great day of your liberation will come, as surely as there is a God in Heaven."

On October 20, 1944, General Douglas MacArthur returned to the Philippines with U.S. troops, stating:

"People of the Philippines: I have returned. By the grace of Almighty God our forces stand again on Philippine soil - soil consecrated in the blood of our two peoples. We have come, dedicated and committed to the task of destroying every vestige of enemy control...The hour of your redemption is here...

Let the indomitable spirit of Bataan and Corregidor lead on...Let no heart be faint. Let every arm be steeled. The guidance of Divine God points the way. Follow in His name to the Holy Grail of righteous victory!"

The same day, President Roosevelt sent a message to General MacArthur:

“The whole American Nation today exults at the news that the gallant men under your command have landed on Philippine soil. I know well what this means to you. I know what it cost you to obey my order that you leave Corregidor in February, 1942, and proceed to Australia...

That day has come. You have the Nation’s gratitude and the Nation’s prayers for success as you and your men fight your way back to Bataan."

President Roosevelt sent the message to Philippine President Osmena, October 20, 1944:

"On this occasion of the return of General MacArthur to Philippine soil with our airmen, our soldiers, and our sailors, we renew our pledge.

We and our Philippine brothers in arms-with the help of Almighty God-will drive out the invader; we will destroy his power to wage war again, and we will restore a world of dignity and freedom."


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DAY 10 - DAILY BIBLE VERSE (DON'T FEAR) - JUNE 3, 2013

June 3

Luke 12:15

15 Then He used that opportunity to speak to the crowd.

Jesus: You’d better be on your guard against any type of greed, for a person’s life is not about having a lot of possessions.

http://www.hearthevoice.com/

DAY 10 - DAILY DEVOTION - JUNE 3, 2013

June 3

Give Yourself Away
Posted on January 16, 2013 by katherine


We give ourselves away to so many things: men/women, money, working out at the gym, surgery to make us look better, and addictions of alcohol, drugs, gambling, or sex.

Why is it that God always seems to be the last person on our list, and by then, we are burned out, drained, exhausted or too stressed?

I encourage you to “Concentrate on doing your best for God, work you won’t be ashamed of.” 2 Timothy 2:15 MSG

I love what Romans 12:1 MSG says, “Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.”

Give yourself away to God FIRST, so He can use you and prosper you in a way you never imagined!

DAY 10 - DAILY PRAYER (GREED) - JUNE 3, 2013

June 3

Heavenly Provider,  

We come to You today with thanksgiving and praise for the great abundance that You have given to the people of the United States of America.  We live in a land where the majority of the inhabitants not only have their daily needs met, but have been blessed with excess.  Not only do we have clothing, food, and shelter, but we often have enough to share with others.  Father, we as a people could be seen as greedy or obsessive in our stewardship of Your many blessings.  Far too often we have multiples of everything, but fail to realize that each additional item could be shared with someone less fortunate.  How many times have we collected items that beautify our homes, but give into obsessive behavior in the process.  We live in a land where we have such an abundance of blessings that we store it away for another time, instead of letting it go to someone else that could use it more.  As a nation, we are guilty of greed as we pursue endless collections of material fulfillment.  Once we have enough to fill our homes, we either find another location to deposit our excesses, or pay someone to store it remotely for us.  Please forgive us for our excessive habits of collecting and hording more that we could ever need, and for not sharing the great blessings that You have bestowed upon us.  Help us Father to become more focused on the needs of the world, and the people who live in poverty.  The blessings that You have given us as a nation are surely enough to manage the great need in this world.  Give us a heart for blessing others, rather than adding to our collections of excess.  We just ask for You Father to guide us in being good stewards of what You have given us, and to help heal us of our excessive need to horde  and stash away what we could never possibly use.  Let us bless others, as You have blessed us.

In Jesus' mighty name we pray.  Amen!

Wally Ziolo

Founder - 40DAYPRAYER4USA

Lancaster, Ohio USA

DAY 10 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT GREED?)

June 3

Question: "What does the Bible say about greed?"

Answer:There are many warnings in the Bible about giving in to greed and longing for riches. Jesus warned, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions” (Luke 12:15). “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal… You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:19and24). Did Jesus pursue the acquisition of money? No. On the contrary, He became poor for our sake (2 Corinthians 8:9) and had “no place to lay his head” (Matthew 8:20). The only disciple concerned with wealth was the embezzler Judas, who betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver.

Greed and a desire for riches are traps that bring ruin and destruction. “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil,” and Christians are warned, “Do not put your trust in wealth” (1 Timothy 6:9-10,17-18). Covetousness, or wanting more than we have, is idolatry. “For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person – such a man is an idolater – has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God” (Ephesians 5:5). The principle to remember is contained inHebrews 13:5: “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’”

It is the love of money, and not money itself, that is the problem. The love of money is a sin because it gets in the way of worshipping God. Jesus said it was very hard for rich people to enter the Kingdom of God. When the rich young ruler asked Jesus what he should do to inherit eternal life, Jesus told him to sell all his possessions and give the money to the poor. “When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth” (Matthew 19:16-22;Luke 10:17-31). By instructing him to give up his money, Jesus pointed out the young man’s main problem: greed. The man could not follow Christ because he was following money. His love of this world interfered with his love for God.

People are more likely to cry out to God when they are in need than when they have plenty. Too often, the wealthy become complacent and self-satisfied and ascribe their riches to their own efforts instead of acknowledging that every good gift comes from God. The easier our lives become, the more enjoyment we derive from our wealth, the greater the temptation to store up treasures on earth, instead of in heaven. If we focus on earthly things like material wealth and possessions, then we fail to give God the glory and worship He deserves. We are to serve God, not waste our time trying to become rich (Proverbs 23:4). Our heart’s desire should be to store up riches in heaven and not worry about what we will eat or drink or wear. “But seek first [God’s] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:25-34).

Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandThe Total Money Makeover: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness by Dave Ramsey.



While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.


Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/Bible-greed.html#ixzz2VAJTERm2

DAY 10- DAILY HISTORY - AMERICAN MINUTE FOR JUNE 3, 2013

June 3

American Minute for June 3rd:

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During its Golden Age, the Dutch Republic of the Seven United Netherlands had settlements around the world, including a monopoly on trade with Japan, Jakarta, Java and Asia.

They invented a way of financing these endeavors without taxes - the Amsterdam Stock Exchange. People could buys shares in the Dutch East India Company whose ships sailed to Indonesia or Japan. It was the first modern stock market.

And in case the ships sank, the Dutch invented insurance companies.

The Dutch started a Dutch West India Company which sent Henry Hudson to find a water route west across America to the Pacific.

Though unsuccessful, Hudson claimed the land along the "Hudson" River, and founded the New Netherlands Colony, receiving its charter JUNE 3, 1621.

Franklin Roosevelt told the Detroit Jewish Chronicle, March 7, 1935:

"All I know about the origin of the Roosevelt family in this country is that all branches bearing the name are apparently descended from Claes Martenssen Van Roosevelt, who came from Holland sometime before 1648."

The Chamber of Amsterdam wrote articles for the Dutch Colony, 1624, stating:

"They shall within their territory practice no other form of divine worship than that of the Reformed religion...and thus by their Christian life and conduct seek to draw the Indians and other blind people to the knowledge of God and His word, without, however, persecuting any on account of his faith, but leaving each one the use of his conscience."

The Charter of Freedoms, June 7, 1629, gave land to wealthy "Patroons" who helped 50 families emigrate, stating:

"Colonists shall...in the speediest manner...find out ways and means whereby they may support a Minister and Schoolmaster, that thus the service of God and zeal for religion may not grow cool."

The Dutch began a New Amsterdam Stock Exchange which met along a street near the wall of their settlement.

In 1664, the Dutch Colony of New Amsterdam was taken over by the English and renamed New York, and the New Amsterdam Stock Exchange was renamed, the New York Stock Exchange or Wall Street.


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DAY 9 - DAILY BIBLE VERSE (DON'T FEAR) - JUNE 2, 2013

June 2

Matthew 10:28 (The Voice Bible)

28 Don’t fear those who aim to kill just the body but are unable to touch the soul. The One to fear is He who can destroy you, soul and body, in the fires of hell.

DAY 9 - DAILY DEVOTION - JUNE 2, 2013

June 2

He Carries Us
Posted on March 29, 2013 by katherine


“Praise the Lord; Praise God Our Savior! For each day he carries us in His arms.” Ps.68:19.

Another translation says it this way: “Blessed be the Lord— day after day he carries us along. He’s our Savior, our God, oh yes! He’s God-for-us, he’s God-who-saves-us. Lord God knows all death’s ins and outs.”

Do you need to be carried today? Allow Him to hoist you, move you, import you, transfer you, transplant you, and relocate you all while supporting & holding you up!

We have a reason to Celebrate on This Good Friday! He saved us from death, hell & the grave as well as making sure our well-being is intact by carrying us each & every day.

DAY 9 - DAILY PRAYER (STRENGTH DURING PERSECUTION) - JUNE 2, 2013

June 2

(2 Timothy 3:12 NASB) And indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.

Father God,

We thank You for mighty examples in Your word of persecuted saints, who stood by their faith in Your son even to their deaths. That we are not alone in our fight, and are certainly not outside of Your watchful eyes.  You have promised to never leave us, nor forsake us. And we know that even when we walk though the valley of the shadow of death, that we will fear no evil. Your rod and Your staff will comfort us, all the days of our lives.  Lord, we pray that were man is trying to stifle Your word, that You will send the Holy Spirit to move and tear down the strongholds of the enemy.  Holy Spirit, tear away at the lies which hold people captive.  And where their is torture and punishment for proclaiming the name of Jesus Christ  may that same name set the captives free.  Father, as a nation that is free to worship and praise You, let us pray in unity for other peoples who do not live in that same freedom.  Hear our prayers for the pastors and congregations that live in fear of destruction and death for proclaiming the name of Your son.  May Your mighty hand of protection be upon Your people, and may they be strengthened in their resolve through our prayers and petitions.  

In Jesus' name we pray.  Amen!

Wally Ziolo

Founder - 40DAYPRAYER4USA

Lancaster, Ohio USA

DAY 9 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (DO CHRISTIANS AND MUSLIMS WORSHIP THE SAME GOD?)

June 2

Question: "What should we learn from the account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego?"

Answer:The amazing story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, three young men defying the mighty KingNebuchadnezzarand thrown into a fiery furnace, has captured the hearts of young children as well as adults for centuries. Recorded in the third chapter of Daniel, the account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego provides believers today with strong and lasting lessons.

For their refusal to obey the king’s decree to bow down to the idol, three charges were brought against them. They paid no heed to the king and his commands, they did not serve the king’s gods, and they refused to worship the golden statue the king himself had set up. The penalty for their actions was death. Their response to the king was profound:

"O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up" (Daniel 3:15-18).

We cannot but be astonished by their faith in the one true God. At the very outset, their response in the moment of trial confirmed three things: their unswerving conviction of the God of the Bible, their confidence in the God who is who He says He is and will do what He says He will do, and their faith as revealed by their reliance upon the only One who had the power to deliver them from evil. Their acknowledgment of God over the world’s most powerful king resulted in God’s supreme power being revealed to unbelievers. Their faith demonstrates that God is able to deliver us from our own problems and trials.

As believers, we know that God is able to deliver. However, we also know that He does not always do so. Romans 5 tells us that God may allow trials and difficulties in our lives to build our character, strengthen our faith, or for other reasons unknown to us. We may not always understand the purpose of our trials, but God simply asks that we trust Him—even when it is not easy. Job, who endured incredible pain, almost insurmountable agony, and suffering, was still able to say, “Though He may slay me, yet will I hope in Him” (Job 13:15).

We also know that God does not always guarantee that we will never suffer or experience death, but He does promise to be with us always. We should learn that in times of trial and persecution our attitude should reflect that of these three young men: “But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up" (Daniel 3:18). Without question, these are some of the most courageous words ever spoken.

Jesus Himself said, “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28). Even if Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had to suffer a horrible, painful death in a burning oven, they refused to abandon God and worship an idol. Such faith has been seen innumerable times throughout the centuries by believers who have suffered martyrdom for the Lord.

Nebuchadnezzar was astonished that the fire did not consume Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. He was even more amazed when he saw not three, but a fourth person with them: "Look!" he answered, "I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God" (Daniel 3:25 NKJV). The point here is that, when we “walk by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7), there may be those times of fiery persecution, but we can be assured that He is with us (Matthew 28:20). He will sustain us (Psalm 55:22;Psalms 147:6). He will ultimately deliver us. He will save us … eternally (Matthew 25:41,46).

The chief lesson from the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego is that, as Christians, we will never be able to bring the world to Christ by becoming like it. As did these three men, so should we in revealing to the world a higher power, a greater purpose, and a superior morality, than the world in which we live. If we are put before the fiery furnace, we can reveal the One who can deliver us from it. Remember the powerful, yet comforting words, of the apostle Paul:

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).

Our hope when experiencing illness, persecution, or pain lies in knowing that this life is not the end—there is life after death. That is His promise to all those who love and obey Him. Knowing that we will have eternal life with God enables us live above the pain and suffering we endure in this life (John 14:23).

Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandThe Great Lives from God's Word Series by Chuck Swindoll.



While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.

Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/Shadrach-Meshach-Abednego.html#ixzz2V1Dlk6nd

DAY 9- DAILY HISTORY - AMERICAN MINUTE FOR JUNE 2, 2013

June 2

American Minute for June 2nd:

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A wedding took place in the White House, JUNE 2, 1886.

One of three Presidents to marry in office and the only President to wed on White House grounds, Grover Cleveland married Frances Folsom, and together they had five children.

Cleveland, both the 22nd and 24th President, stated in his 2nd Inaugural, March 4, 1893:

"Above all, I know there is a Supreme Being who rules the affairs of men and whose goodness and mercy have always followed the American people, and I know He will not turn from us now if we humbly and reverently seek His powerful aid."

In a Message to Congress, December 2, 1895, President Cleveland stated:

"Reported massacres of Christians in Armenia and the development there and in other districts of a spirit of fanatic hostility to Christian influences naturally excited apprehension for the safety of the devoted men and women who, as dependents of the foreign missionary societies in the United States, reside in Turkey."

President Cleveland continued:

"Several of the most powerful European powers have secured a right...not only in behalf of their own citizens...but as agents of the Christian world...to enforce such conduct of Turkish government as will refrain fanatical brutality."

The next year, President Cleveland stated, December 7, 1896:

"The rage of mad bigotry and cruel fanaticism...wanton destruction of homes and the bloody butchery of men, women, and children, made martyrs to their profession of Christian faith...

The outbreaks of blind fury which lead to murder and pillage in Turkey occur suddenly and without notice..."

Grover Cleveland concluded:

"I do not believe that the present somber prospect in Turkey will be long permitted to offend the sight of Christendom.

It so mars the humane and enlightened civilization that belongs to the close of the 19th century that it seems hardly possible that the earnest demand of good people throughout the Christian world for its corrective treatment will remain unanswered."


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DAY 8 - DAILY BIBLE VERSE (COME TO THE FATHER) - JUNE 1, 2013

June 1


John 14:6

6 I am the path, the truth, and the energy of life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

DAY 8 - DAILY DEVOTION - JUNE 1, 2013

June 1

The Question
Posted on October 22, 2012 by katherine


“Two be, or not to be, that is the question.” NO! Shakespeare, sorry, that is not the question. Let me explain.

I was just reading an email from a partner of Daily Live Worship where they are requesting prayer for 2 young girls who were tortured & put in jail for not denying Christ… The girls were from another religion & came to know Jesus, as Lord & Savior… Their family heard about it & began the torturing. Just reading about the excruciating pain & agony these girls have gone through, I just fell to my knees in brokenness. Here in America, we complain about not getting out of church on time, the fast food lines are too long, not getting our Starbucks coffee, or not being able to watch the X-Factor because the baseball game is on..

I need to take inventory of my life. I pray you will too.. Would I endure agonizing pain and misery like so many have, for the cause of Christ? Or, would I deny Jesus, like Peter did, if it came to that?

Would I lay my life down for Him, at any cost? That is the question!



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DAY 8 - DAILY PRAYER (SALVATION) - June 1, 2013

June 1


The following prayer is followed by the scriptural backings. After praying it over the people read the Bible reference that follow. Then allow the Holy Spirit to fill your heart with more specific prayer requests for the people you are praying for.


Prayer:
Lord God, I ask you for the salvation of the above people. You asked us to pray for people that do not yet know you because you love them and want them to join in and become part of the inheritance that Jesus' death has brought mankind (Psalm 2)
Jesus gave Himself as a ransom for their sin. They no longer need to live their lives without knowledge of God (Matthew 20:28)

Lord Jesus, I know you have broken the hold of sin, the world and ignorance over these people's hearts and minds. I speak the love and peace of God over their hearts and mind. Allow them to see the light, hope and new life that the gospel brings them. Remove the blindness from their eyes. Lord Jesus, let your grace bring them in contact with people that will expose them to the love of Christ in such a manner that they will accept it. (Colossians 1: 9-14)

Lord God, it is not your will that any should perish. I pray in accordance with your will and Word. Let your will be done in these people's life. Give me the strength to continue in prayer for them. Lord let your will be done. Let them come to a living knowledge of your love.

Bring them to the point of repentance from their lack of serving you. Bring them into the kingdom of your son. Let them embrace and live in the love of God free from the deception of the world. (1 Timothy 2: 1-6, 1 Peter 3:18)

Lord, let your compassion continue to keep these people from the destruction of evil. Let them not see death before knowing you. However long it might take, your promise never fails. Lord I commit into your hands these people who were created in your image.

They will know you before they see death in Jesus' name (2 Peter 3:9).

In Jesus name I pray. Amen!




Scriptural background


Psalm 2:8-9
Ask of Me, and I will give [You] The nations [for] Your inheritance, And the ends of the earth [for] Your possession. 9 You shall break them with a rod of iron; You shall dash them to pieces like a potter's vessel.' " (NKJV) Matthew 20:28
"just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." (NKJV)



Colossians 1:9-14
For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing [Him,] being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;
11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. 13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed [us] into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. (NKJV)

1 Timothy 2:1-6
Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3 For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For [there is] one God and one Mediator between God and men, [the] Man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time, (NKJV)

1 Peter 3:18
For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit, (NKJV)

2 Peter 3:9
The Lord is not slack concerning [His] promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. (NKJV)

DAY 8 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (DO CHRISTIANS AND MUSLIMS WORSHIP THE SAME GOD?)

June 1

Question: "Do Christians and Muslims worship the same God?"

Answer:The Muslim and Christian views of God have some similarities. Christians believe in one eternal God Who created the universe, and Muslims apply these attributes to Allah. Both view God as all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-present.

A vital difference between the Islamic and Christian views of God is the biblical concept of the Trinity. In the Bible, God has revealed Himself as one God in three Persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. While each Person of the Trinity is fully God, God is not three gods but three in one.

God’s Son came in the form of man, a truth called the incarnation (Luke 1:30-35;John 1:14;Colossians 2:9;1 John 4:1-3). The Lord Jesus Christ conquered the penalty and power of sin by dying on the cross (Romans 6:23). After rising from the dead, Jesus went back to heaven to be with His Father and sent the Holy Spirit to believers (Acts 1:8-11). One day, Christ will return to judge and rule (Acts 10:42,43). Those who have trusted in the Lord Jesus will live with Him, but those who refuse to follow Him must be separated in hell from the holy God.

“The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him” (John 3:35-36). Either Jesus bears the wrath of God for your sin on the cross or you bear the wrath of God for your sin in hell (1 Peter 2:24).

The Trinity is essential to the Christian faith. Without the Trinity, there would be no incarnation of God’s Son in the Person of Jesus Christ. Without Jesus Christ, there would be no salvation from sin. Without salvation, sin would condemn all to an eternal hell.

So, do Christians and Muslims worship the same God? A better question is, “Do Christians and Muslims both have a correct understanding of who God is?” To this question, the answer is definitely no. Because of crucial differences between the Christian and Muslim concepts of God, the two faiths cannot both be true. The biblical God alone addresses and solves the problem of sin by giving His Son.

“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. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son” (John 3:16-18).

Recommended Resource:Answering Islam: The Crescent in Light of the Cross by Norm Geisler

This page is also available in:Arabic,Indonesia,Melayu,Français,Jawi,Bulgarian,Farsi,Srpski,Shqip,Tagalog,Türkçe,Macedonian,Urdu,Bosanski,Russian,Sh-Punjabi,Nederlands,Kazakh,Pashto



While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.

Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/same-God.html#ixzz2Uvdj7DGt

DAY 8- DAILY HISTORY - AMERICAN MINUTE FOR JUNE 1, 2013

June 1

American Minute for June 1st:

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"Don't Give Up The Ship!" commanded 31-year-old Captain James Lawrence, as he lay wounded on the deck of the U.S.S. Chesapeake.

Captain Lawrence fought Muslim Barbary pirates in 1804, and when the War of 1812 began, he commanded the U.S.S. Hornet which captured the privateer Dolphin and the H.M.S. Peacock.

President Madison wrote May 25, 1813:

"The brilliant achievements of our infant Navy, a signal triumph has been gained by Captain Lawrence...in the Hornet sloop of war...

The contest in which the United States are engaged appeals...to the sacred obligation of transmitting...to future generations that...which is held...by the present from the goodness of Divine Providence."

On JUNE 1, 1813, Captain Lawrence sailed from Boston and was attacked by the British ship Shannon.

Within an hour, nearly every officer was killed.

Later, Captain Oliver Hazard Perry was inspired to name his flagship on Lake Erie "Lawrence."

Theodore Roosevelt wrote in Hero Tales from American History, 1895:

"Lawrence, dying with the words on his lips, 'Don't give up the ship' and Perry...with the same words blazoned on his banner...won glory in desperate conflicts and left a reputation hardly dimmed."

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DAY 7 - DAILY BIBLE VERSE (IDOLS) - MAY 31, 2013

May 31

1 Peter 4:3-6

3You have already wasted enough time living like those outsiders in the society around you: losing yourselves in sex, in addictions and desires, in drinking and lawless idolatry, in giving your time and allegiance to things that are not godly.4When you don’t play the same games they do, they notice that you are living by different rules. That’s why they say such terrible things about you. 5Someday they, too, will have to give an account of themselves to the One who judges the living and the dead. 6This is why the good news had to be brought to those who are dead so that although they are judged in the flesh, they might live in the spirit in the way that pleases God.)

DAY 7 - DAILY DEVOTION - MAY 31, 2013

May 31


“A Blessed Life Starts With Worship”
Posted on December 30, 2012 by katherine


Ladies, don’t you love a man who can cook? Or, maybe, you love a man who can work on cars or fix things around the house?

I love to see a Man in total surrender worshiping God whether people are around or not.. My perfect man is a Man who Worships God, with all his heart, mind, & soul- that catches my eye every time. And, I bet, it catches God’s eye too..

I want to encourage you whether male or female to Worship God, Pursue Him like there is no tomorrow.. As you Worship, that is when you find what you have been looking for… And, it’s all found in Him through your Worship!!

Worship makes you complete & Whole!! You will never feel alone or lacking for anything. Why? Because you were created to Worship!!

Worship brings closeness, a good fit, togetherness, and unity.. And, where there is Unity- It Commands A Blessing.. You want a Blessed Life? Start with Worship & see your life change forever!!





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DAY 7 - DAILY PRAYER (IDOLATRY) - MAY 301, 2013

May 31


Prayers Against Idols & Idolatry
Posted on 3 May 2011 by HKP-Admin

Original source: Apostle John Eckhardt’s book “Prayers that Rout Demons”

Let any idol in my life or nation be destroyed and burned with Your fire (1 Kings 15:13).

Lord, cut down all the idols in the land (2 Chronicles 34:7).

Let the familiar spirits, wizards, and idols be taken out of the land (2 Kings 23:24).

Let the idols be confounded and the images be broken in pieces (Jeremiah 50:2).

Let men throw away their idols and turn to You, O Lord (Isaiah 31:7).

I renounce all idolatry in my bloodline and break all curses of idolatry in the name of Jesus (2 Kings 21:21).

Lord, put the names of the idols out of the land (Zechariah 13:2).

I will keep myself from idols (1 John 5:21).

Abolish the idols in America and the nations (Isaiah 2:18).

Lord, expose all idols as lying vanities (Zechariah 10:2).

I renounce all covetousness; I will not serve the god of mammon (Colossians 3:5).

Let Babylon, the mother of harlots and abominations of the earth, fall in the name of Jesus (Revelation 17:5).

Lord, cleanse the pollution of idols from the land (Acts 15:20).

Sprinkle clean water upon me, and cleanse me from all filthiness, and cleanse me from all idols (Ezekiel 36:25).

Let me not go astray after any idol (Ezekiel 44:10).

Let all false gods and idols (including humans) be removed from my life in the name of Jesus.

I will put no other gods before You, Lord (Exodus 20:3).

DAY 7 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT SEX BEFORE MARRIAGE)

May 31

Question: "What is the definition of idolatry?"

Answer:The definition of idolatry, according to Webster, is “the worship of idols or excessive devotion to, or reverence for some person or thing.” An idol is anything that replaces the one, true God. The most prevalent form of idolatry in Bible times was the worship of images that were thought to embody the various pagan deities.

From the beginning, God’s covenant with Israel was based on exclusive worship of Him alone (Exodus 20:3;Deuteronomy 5:7). The Israelites were not even to mention the names of false gods (Exodus 23:13) because to do so would acknowledge their existence and give credence to their power and influence over the people. Israel was forbidden to intermarry with other cultures who embraced false gods, because God knew this would lead to compromise. The book of Hosea uses the imagery of adultery to describe Israel’s continual chasing after other gods, like an unfaithful wife chases after other men. The history of Israel is a sad chronicle of idol worship, punishment, restoration and forgiveness, followed by a return to idolatry. The books of 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, and 1 & 2 Chronicles reveal this destructive pattern. The Old Testament prophets endlessly prophesied dire consequences for Israel if they continued in their idolatry. Mostly, they were ignored until it was too late and God’s wrath against idol-worship was poured out on the nation. But ours is a merciful God, and He never failed to forgive and restore them when they repented and sought His forgiveness.

In reality, idols are impotent blocks of stone or wood, and their power exists only in the minds of the worshipers. The idol of the god Dagon was twice knocked to the floor by God to show the Philistines just who was God and who wasn’t (1 Samuel 5:1-5). The “contest” between God and His prophet Elijah and the 450 prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel is a dramatic example of the power of the true God and the impotence of false gods (1 Kings 18:19-40). The testimony of Scripture is that God alone is worthy of worship. Idol worship robs God of the glory that is rightfully His, and that is something He will not tolerate (Isaiah 42:8).

Even today there are religions that bow before statues and icons, a practice forbidden by God’s Word. The significance God places upon it is reflected in the fact that the first of the Ten Commandments refers to idolatry: “You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me” (Exodus 20:3-5).

Idolatry extends beyond the worship of idols and images and false gods. Our modern idols are many and varied. Even for those who do not bow physically before a statue, idolatry is a matter of the heart—pride, self-centeredness, greed, gluttony, a love for possessions and ultimately rebellion against God. Is it any wonder that God hates it?

Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandBasic Theology by Charles Ryrie.



While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.


Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-definition.html#ixzz2UoIgV2uH

DAY 7- DAILY HISTORY - AMERICAN MINUTE FOR MAY 31, 2013

May 31


American Minute for May 31st:

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On MAY 31, 1775, Harvard President Samuel Langdon addressed the Massachusetts Provincial Congress during the Revolutionary War:

"We have rebelled against God. We have lost the true spirit of Christianity, though we retain the outward profession and form of it. We have neglected and set light by the glorious Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ and His holy commands and institutions.

The worship of many is but mere compliment to the Deity, while their hearts are far from Him. By many, the Gospel is corrupted into a superficial system of moral philosophy, little better than ancient Platonism...

My brethren, let us repent and implore the divine mercy. Let us amend our ways and our doings, reform everything that has been provoking the Most High, and thus endeavor to obtain the gracious interpositions of providence for our deliverance....

May the Lord hear us in this day of trouble...We will rejoice in His salvation, and in the name of our God, we will set up our banners!...

Wherefore is all this evil upon us? Is it not because we have forsaken the Lord? Can we say we are innocent of crimes against God? No, surely it becomes us to humble ourselves under His mighty hand, that He may exalt us in due time...

My brethren, let us repent and implore the divine mercy. Let us amend our ways and our doings, reform everything that has been provoking the Most High, and thus endeavor to obtain the gracious interpositions of Providence for our deliverance...

If God be for us, who can be against us? The enemy has reproached us for calling on His name and professing our trust in Him. They have made a mock of our solemn fasts and every appearance of serious Christianity in the land...

May our land be purged from all its sins! Then the Lord will be our refuge and our strength, a very present help in trouble, and we will have no reason to be afraid, though thousands of enemies set themselves against us round about.

May the Lord hear us in this day of trouble...We will rejoice in His salvation, and in the name of our God, we will set up our banners."

On MAY 31, 1923, President Calvin Coolidge said in his Memorial Day Address:

"Settlers came here from mixed motives...Generally defined, they were seeking a broader freedom. They were intent upon establishing a Christian commonwealth in accordance to the principle of self-government...It has been said that God sifted the nations that He might send choice grain into the wilderness."

Calvin Coolidge continued:

"They had a genius for organized society on the foundations of piety, righteousness, liberty, and obedience of the law...Who can fail to see in it the hand of destiny? Who can doubt that it has been guided by a Divine Providence?"

At the Memorial Day Ceremony, MAY 31, 1993, President Bill Clinton remarked:

"The inscription on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier says that he is 'Known only to God.' But that is only partly true. While the soldier's name is known only to God, we know a lot about him.

We know he served his country, honored his community, and died for the cause of freedom. And we know that no higher praise can be assigned to any human being than those simple words...

In the presence of those buried all around us, we ask the support of all Americans in the aid and blessing of God Almighty."


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DAY 6 - DAILY BIBLE VERSE (SEXUAL DEFILEMENT) - MAY 30, 2013

May 30

1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 (The Voice Bible)

3Now this is God’s will for you: set yourselves apart and live holy lives; avoid polluting yourselves with sexual defilement. 4Learn how to take charge over your own body, maintaining purity and honor. 5Don’t let the swells of lustful passion run your life as they do the outsiders who don’t know God.

DAY 6 - DAILY DEVOTION - MAY 30, 2013

May 30


“Demanding & Pursuing A Mate”
Posted on March 1, 2013 by katherine


If you would stop breaking your neck trying to check out every person that goes by, snooping on every social media site, or going to extreme measures to find someone and start pursuing God more, then God will bring the person He has for you. God sees your hearts desires. I encourage you to line them up with His Word. Psalm 37:4, says, Delight yourself in the Lord, not delight yourself in trying to scour every church, singles group, or latest fling.. Get so close to God, that others see His heart in you. A lover of His Presence is what’s attractive to men & women of God.

In 1 Samuel 8, the people demanded a King- they got a King, but it wasn’t “The One” God really had for them. They insisted on having it their way. Are you demanding a spouse? Let me remind you, this isn’t Burger King, and you can’t have it your way! Let God be God!

And, what about when God told Samuel to go to Jesse’s house in Bethlehem because God had chosen one of his sons to be the next king. When Samuel arrives, they brought all of Jesse’s sons except one son, David, who was way out in the field tending to the sheep. I have to believe that David was out in the field tending sheep and worshiping God. I bet that is when he started writing all those Heavenly songs that he played later on his harp. God didn’t forget David and He won’t forget you. God knows where you are- perhaps you are out in the field working like David, and you feel you have been overlooked. Why not worship while you wait, like David did? You are Not Forgotten!

And, I have to say, perhaps, you have been looking on the outward appearance, but God is looking inwardly. Just as God told Samuel, “don’t look at his appearance or how tall he is for I look at his heart.” God says, Trust me, I have your best interest at heart, so keep your heart in tune with me while you wait!

Or, maybe, you have been watering the animals like Rebekah- God brought Isaac to her. I’m sure she was doing her normal every day routine, and God saw her faithfulness. God didn’t forget her & He’s not going to forget you. He knows your name & number, and most importantly, He doesn’t need your help!

So, give all this hustling and bustling a rest & relax. Keep doing what God has called you to do. God’s got the person for you. He’s probably waiting for you to stop actively looking & say, “God, you know the person & the plans you have for me & they are good.. I rest in the peace that only you can give and in your timing. Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary for your glory, and to continue doing what you have called me to do, until you bring my mate.” Let’s push onward and upward in Him.

We live, move, and have our being because of Him. So, we can trust Him even more now knowing He’s got us in the palm of His hands!





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DAY 6 - DAILY PRAYER (SEXUAL RELATIONS) - MAY 30, 2013

May 30

Most Loving and Merciful Father,

We thank You for the price paid on the cross by Your one and only Son.  That through His death and resurrection, we might have our trespasses forgiven and the promise fulfilled of an eternal life with You.  Please hear our prayers today for repentance of our sins as a nation, and especially for the sin of adultery.  Father, we are an adulterous nation, and we repent now in Jesus' name!  The lusts of the flesh have been a major sin in this country since it's inception, even though it goes against Your commandments.  You have called each one of us to resist the temptations of the flesh, but so many of us have succumbed to the lies that satan feeds this world regarding sexuality and pleasure.  Many of us in this nation  have given into pre-marital pleasures, lewd thoughts, and everything else that defiles Your plans for us.  Forgive us as a nation for our sins of immorality, and our transgressions against Your laws.  Please forgive the early sins of our youth, and those of our adult years.  As we pass the responsibility for the purity of this nation onto the younger generation, we pray.  Lord, we ask today that You will guard the hearts and minds of our nations youth.  That the pressures of this world would not be too great for them to overcome.  Be ever present in this society and the daily relationships that form between boys and girls, men and women.  We ask also that You would guide the single and married adults of this nation into loving and true relationships that are pleasing to You.  Allow those who are lonely to find pleasing relationships that are in alignment with Your will, or at least help them to maintain a pure life of abstinence.   We pray against the schemes of satan to tempt us with suggestive advertising, sexually driven movies and images, and the host of other creative deceptions that he uses to ensnare the people of this great nation.  From our government to our households, may the laws of man begin to reflect Yours, limiting and closing the avenues to sexual immorality.  Equip the parents of this nation with a sense of morality, that they may guide their families in all righteousness.  Come against those that wish to pollute this nation with their wicked pursuit of sexual immorality, and guard us against their perverse idolitry.  And Father, we pray today that this nation will one day lead the world in transformation from an adulterous society, to one pleasing to You.

We ask all things in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.  Amen!

Wally Ziolo
Founder - 40DAYPRAYER4USA
Lancaster, Ohio USA

DAY 6 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT SEX BEFORE MARRIAGE)

May 30



Question: "What does the Bible say about sex before marriage?"

Answer:There is no Hebrew or Greek word used in the Bible that precisely refers to sex before marriage. The Bible undeniably condemns adultery and sexual immorality, but is sex before marriage considered sexually immoral? According to1 Corinthians 7:2, “yes” is the clear answer: “But since there is so much immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband.” In this verse, Paul states that marriage is the “cure” for sexual immorality.First Corinthians 7:2is essentially saying that, because people cannot control themselves and so many are having immoral sex outside of marriage, people should get married. Then they can fulfill their passions in a moral way.

Since1 Corinthians 7:2clearly includes sex before marriage in the definition of sexual immorality, all of the Bible verses that condemn sexual immorality as being sinful also condemn sex before marriage as sinful. Sex before marriage is included in the biblical definition of sexual immorality. There are numerous Scriptures that declare sex before marriage to be a sin (Acts 15:20;1 Corinthians 5:1;6:13,18;10:8;2 Corinthians 12:21;Galatians 5:19;Ephesians 5:3;Colossians 3:5;1 Thessalonians 4:3;Jude 7). The Bible promotes complete abstinence before marriage. Sex between a husband and his wife is the only form of sexual relations of which God approves (Hebrews 13:4).

Far too often we focus on the “recreation” aspect of sex without recognizing that there is another aspect—procreation. Sex within marriage is pleasurable, and God designed it that way. God wants men and women to enjoy sexual activity within the confines of marriage. Song of Solomon and several other Bible passages (such asProverbs 5:19) clearly describe the pleasure of sex. However, the couple must understand that God’s intent for sex includes producing children. Thus, for a couple to engage in sex before marriage is doubly wrong—they are enjoying pleasures not intended for them, and they are taking a chance of creating a human life outside of the family structure God intended for every child.

While practicality does not determine right from wrong, if the Bible's message on sex before marriage were obeyed, there would be far fewer sexually transmitted diseases, far fewer abortions, far fewer unwed mothers and unwanted pregnancies, and far fewer children growing up without both parents in their lives. Abstinence is God’s only policy when it comes to sex before marriage. Abstinence saves lives, protects babies, gives sexual relations the proper value, and, most importantly, honors God.

Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandWhy True Love Waits by Josh McDowell.
Men -Every Young Man's Battle : Strategies for Victory in the Real World of Sexual Temptation by Stephen Arterburn.
Women -Every Young Woman's Battle: Guarding Your Mind, Heart, and Body in a Sex-Saturated World by Shannon Ethridge.

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