Patricia Nordstrom

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 
We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 
2 Corinthians 4:8-10 
 
NOT IN DESPAIR (DAY 29) 
 
Compulsive overeating was depressing. Near the end of my overeating career, stuffing myself was no longer fun. I had had too many mornings after full of despair and self-loathing, to find any enjoyment after the first few compulsive bites. Many times, though, I still took the bites, and without fail, I eventually hated myself for doing so. 
 
It has been said that nothing tastes as good as abstinence feels. This was certainly my experience in my first few years of abstinence. I felt better before it even showed physically. Later, I could notice that I was getting smaller and this, too, made me feel great. It was wonderful to wake up with hope and energy for the day. 
 
For a while, I thought that abstinence alone was the answer to my despair. It took a while to realize that being disciplined and successful with my food drew others to me. Some thought that I could walk on water. Others desired to see “signs and wonders.” In my own strength, I lacked the power to meet the expectations of a flourishing life. I needed something more. 
 
In Philippians 3:10, Paul wrote, “I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection.” I came to understand that the power that resurrected Jesus from the dead was the power that I needed to live my life abstinent, helpful, and free. 
 
Because Jesus is my Lord, I don’t ever have to fear the pressures of life today. He keeps me from being crushed. He has given me a legacy of eternal hope, and nothing can destroy me and keep me down. 
 
{Dear Father, thank you for giving me a way to be fruitful and having a meaningful life. I pray to remember that without Jesus I can do nothing. Without Him, I will return to hopelessness and despair. Keep me close to Jesus. I pray this in His holy name. Amen.} 
 
Digging Deeper 
• Read 2 Corinthians 4:1-18. In this chapter are several beautiful, strengthening verses. Prayerfully consider committing one or more of these to memory today. 
• How long has it been since you experience the hopelessness and despair brought on by compulsive overeating? Have you thanked God for your abstinence? If you are still struggling with the food, have you continued to ask for the willingness and strength again and again and again to abstain? 
• Is Jesus your Lord and Savior? What, exactly, does this mean to you today?

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 
We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.
2 Corinthians 4:8-10

NOT IN DESPAIR (DAY 29)

Compulsive overeating was depressing.  Near the end of my overeating career, stuffing myself was no longer fun.  I had had too many mornings after full of despair and self-loathing, to find any enjoyment after the first few compulsive bites.  Many times, though, I still took the bites, and without fail, I eventually hated myself for doing so.

It has been said that nothing tastes as good as abstinence feels.  This was certainly my experience in my first few years of abstinence.  I felt better before it even showed physically. Later, I could notice that I was getting smaller and this, too, made me feel great.  It was wonderful to wake up with hope and energy for the day.

For a while

Not in Despair (2 Corinthians 4:8-10)

Jeremiah 27:9 ~ So do not listen to your prophets, your diviners, your dreamers, your fortune-tellers, or your sorcerers, who are saying to you, ‘You shall not serve the king of Babylon.’ 
 
 
A DIME A DOZEN 
 
 
 
** Liars are a dime a dozen. We do not have to look very far to find someone to tell us something that the flesh is just eager to hear. 
** In the days of Zedekiah, the wicked king of Judah, Jeremiah was sent with a warning from God. 
** Judgement was coming from God, and he was going to use the evil nation of Babylon as an instrument for His wrath. 
** There were false prophets and other diviners who were saying that the Babylon takeover would NEVER happen. 
** So God gave them an additional warning: Those who did not submit to the yoke of Babylon would not only suffer pestilence and disease, but would also be exiled from their homeland! 
 
 
{Dear Father, Your word has been given to warn us, to prepare us, and to equip us (John 16:33; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). To ignore your word is not only highly foolish, but could cost us our lives! Keep us learning from the Godly examples of those in our midst. Keep us learning from the example of men and women of the Bible. We pray to know Your word and live our lives as Godly role-models for all who come behind us. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.} 
 
Psalm 1: 1 ~ Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; 
 
Matthew 24:24 ~ For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. 
 
Ephesians 2:19, 20 ~ You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. 
 
 
A DIME A DOZEN (Jeremiah 27:9) – Audio http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/A-Dime-A-Dozen.wav

Jeremiah 27:9 ~ So do not listen to your prophets, your diviners, your dreamers, your fortune-tellers, or your sorcerers, who are saying to you, ‘You shall not serve the king of Babylon.’


A DIME A DOZEN



** Liars are a dime a dozen. We do not have to look very far to find someone to tell us something that the flesh is just eager to hear.
** In the days of Zedekiah, the wicked king of Judah, Jeremiah was sent with a warning from God.
** Judgement was coming from God, and he was going to use the evil nation of Babylon as an instrument for His wrath.
** There were false prophets and other diviners who were saying that the Babylon takeover would NEVER happen.  
** So God gave them an additional warning: Those who did not submit to the yoke of Babylon would not only suffer pestilence and disease, but would also be exiled from their homeland!


{Dear Father, Your word has been given to warn us, to prepare us, and to equip us (John 16:33; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). To ignore your word is not onl

A Dime A Dozen (Jeremiah 27:9)

Isaiah 62:2 ~ The nations shall see your righteousness, and all the kings your glory, and you shall be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will give. 
 
 
GO LIGHT YOUR WORLD 
 
 
 
** Through Isaiah, God was reminding the Israelite nation that they had been chosen to bring His light into the darkness. They were to prepare the way. They were to lift up a signal. 
** This same call is for every Christian. God did not save us for “country club living”. Many went before us so that we could have the understanding that we have today. 
** We must do the same for others! 
{Dear Father, strengthen us so that we do not draw back from the call that You have placed upon our lives. In this very day, we pray that Your light through us will dispel the darkness for many. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.} 
Luke 4:18-19 ~ “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. 
John 8:12 ~ When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” 
Romans 10:14-15 ~ How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news! 
GO LIGHT YOUR WORLD (Isaiah 62:10) Audio http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Go-Light-Your-World.mp3

Isaiah 62:2 ~ The nations shall see your righteousness, and all the kings your glory, and you shall be called by a new name  that the mouth of the Lord will give.


GO LIGHT YOUR WORLD



** Through Isaiah, God was reminding the Israelite nation that they had been chosen to bring His light into the darkness. They were to prepare the way. They were to lift up a signal.
** This same call is for every Christian. God did not save us for “country club living”. Many went before us so that we could have the understanding that we  have today.
** We must do the same for others!
{Dear Father, strengthen us so that we do not draw back from the call that You have placed upon our lives. In this very day, we pray that Your light through us will dispel the darkness for many. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.}
Luke 4:18-19 ~ “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for t

Go Light Your World (Isaiah 62:2)

THE GOODNESS OF GOD 
 
Psalm 96:2-3 ~ “Sing to the Lord, praise His name; proclaim His salvation day after day. Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples.” 
 
** When all other thoughts about God elude me, there is one fact that remains: God is good…all the time God is good! 
** I have been called to tell others, again and again, this truth. 
** Day after day, I am to repeat this message to the throngs of people who would otherwise just hear about the evil and injustices in the world—and never about the goodness of God! 
 
{Dear Father, Your word reminds me to think about the things that will cause my mouth to speak life and not death. Fill me with the remembrance of Your truth, Your nobility, Your righteousness, Your purity, Your loveliness, Your virtue, and Your excellence. You are so worthy of my praise! Regardless of the amount of praise I did yesterday, let me sing praise to You today! In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.} 
 
Psalm 98:4 ~ Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth; break forth—let your cry ring out, and sing praises! 
 
Psalm 77:12 ~ I will reflect on all You have done and ponder Your mighty deeds. 
 
Psalm 107: 2 ~ Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the adversary.

THE GOODNESS OF GOD

Psalm 96:2-3 ~ “Sing to the Lord, praise His name; proclaim His salvation day after day. Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples.”

** When all other thoughts about God elude me, there is one fact that remains: God is good…all the time God is good!
** I have been called to tell others, again and again, this truth.
** Day after day, I am to repeat this message to the throngs of people who would otherwise just hear about the evil and injustices in the world—and never about the goodness of God!

{Dear Father, Your word reminds me to think about the things that will cause my mouth to speak life and not death. Fill me with the remembrance of Your truth, Your nobility, Your righteousness, Your purity, Your loveliness, Your virtue, and Your excellence. You are so worthy of my praise! Regardless of the amount of praise I did yesterday, let me sing praise to You today! In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.}

Psalm 98:4 ~ Make a joyful noise 

The Goodness of God (Psalm 96:2-3)

NOT FITTING FOR A CHILD OF GOD 
 
Ephesians 4:29 ~ “Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God.” 
 
** As we grow in our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, we might have to change the places where we once went to receive help. Human nature is such that a student will imitate their teacher. If the teacher does not know the Lord, they might inadvertently lead us away from the Lord and back into the darkness. 
 
** In Christ we want to grow in fruitfulness as defined in Galatians 5:22-23. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are the character traits we want to be known by. 
 
** In Christ, we now have a new identity. It is important that we know and remember what we look like as followers of Jesus and as His ambassadors. 
 
** If in our “classrooms of recovery”, there is more talk about our old nature than our new identity in Christ, we run the risk of grieving the Spirit. Instead of peace we feel unrest and duplicity. 
 
** We can find ourselves speaking one way with our Christian friends and another way with our comrades in recovery. Feeling of hypocrisy plague us as we fear losing favor or being criticized. 
 
{Dear Father, falsehood and hypocrisy are not fitting for us anymore. We are Yours. You brought us with the blood of Your Son. Show us how to live this new life in Christ. Wherever we are, let our speech and our manner shout the truth that Jesus is Lord of our lives. May we proclaim His name without apology. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.} 
 
1 Thessalonians 5:5-6 ~ “For you are all children of light, children of the day. We are not of the night or of the darkness. So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober.” 
 
Ecclesiastes 10:1 ~ “Dead flies make the perfumer’s ointment give off a stench; so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor.” 
 
1 John 2:9-11 ~ “Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness. Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.” 
 
NOT FITTING FOR A CHILD OF GOD (Ephesians 5:4) AUDIO

NOT FITTING FOR A CHILD OF GOD

Ephesians 4:29 ~ “Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God.”

** As we grow in our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, we might have to change the places where we once went to receive help. Human nature is such that a student will imitate their teacher. If the teacher does not know the Lord, they might inadvertently lead us away from the Lord and back into the darkness.

** In Christ we want to grow in fruitfulness as defined in Galatians 5:22-23.  Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are the character traits we want to be known by.

** In Christ, we now have a new identity. It is important that we know and remember what we look like as followers of Jesus and as His ambassadors.

** If in our “classrooms of recovery”, there is more talk about our old nature than our new identity in Christ, we run the risk of grieving the Spirit. Inste

Not Fitting For A Child Of God (Ephesians 5:4)

2 Corinthians 8:11 ~ Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. 
 
 
FINISHING THE WORK 
 
 
** Our minds can be filled with many ideas and abundant things to do in a day. 
** They sound good and helpful, but they are not necessarily God’s will for us to do at the time. 
** When we take on tasks and leave God out, then discouragement and burnout can be a frequent outcome. We find ourselves surrounded by many unfinished projects and heaps of broken promises! 
 
{Dear Father, we pray to keep in mind that we are no longer just living for ourselves. We have been crucified with Christ (Galatians 2:20). We pray to seek Your vision in everything we intend to take on. Keep us calling on You for clear directions. Keep us following the directions that You give us. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen. 
 
Philippians 1:6 ~ Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. 
 
Proverbs 16:3 ~ Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be achieved. 
 
1 Corinthians 15:58 ~ Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 
 
FINISHING THE WORK (2 Corinthians 8:11) AUDIO: http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Finishing-the-Work.wav

2 Corinthians 8:11 ~ Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means.


FINISHING THE WORK


** Our minds can be filled with many ideas and abundant things to do in a day.
** They sound good and helpful, but they are not necessarily God’s will for us to do at the time.
** When we take on tasks and leave God out, then discouragement and burnout can be a frequent outcome. We find ourselves surrounded by many unfinished projects and heaps of broken promises!

{Dear Father, we pray to keep in mind that we are no longer just living for ourselves. We have been crucified with Christ (Galatians 2:20). We pray to seek Your vision in everything we intend to take on. Keep us calling on You for clear directions. Keep us following the directions that You give us. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

Philippians 1:6 ~ Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until

Finishing the Work (2 Corinthians 8:11)

GETTING PAST LETHARGY 
 
 
 
Proverbs 18:9 ~ Whoever is slack in his work is a brother to him who destroys. 
 
 
 
** When I procrastinate and/or give in to lethargy, I open the door to my own destruction. 
 
** God has sent me on an extremely important mission. Each day I am to be about His business of winning souls for Jesus. 
 
** I am not to be lukewarm in any task that He has given me to do. 
 
** My life and my time belongs to Him. He deserves nothing less than my excellence. 
 
 
 
{Dear Father , open my eyes to Your vision for my days. Ignite Your Spirit in me. Fill my heart with joy so that I might be a strong and tireless worker for You. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.} 
 
 
 
Zechariah 14:6 ~ Then he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts. 
 
 
 
James 1:5 ~ If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. 
 
 
 
Isaiah 41:13 ~ For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you, 
 
 
 
GETTING PAST LETHARGY (Proverbs 18:9) Audio: http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Getting-Past-Lethargy.wav 
 
http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Getting-Past-Lethargy.wav

GETTING PAST LETHARGY

 

Proverbs 18:9 ~ Whoever is slack in his work is a brother to him who destroys.

 

** When I procrastinate and/or give in to lethargy, I open the door to my own destruction.

** God has sent me on an extremely important mission. Each day I am to be about  His business of winning souls for Jesus.

** I am not to be lukewarm in any task that He has given me to do. 

** My life and my time belongs to Him. He deserves nothing less than my excellence.

 

{Dear Father , open my eyes to Your vision for my days. Ignite Your Spirit in me. Fill my heart with joy so that I might be a strong and tireless worker for You. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.}

 

Zechariah 14:6 ~ Then he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.

 

James 1:5 ~ If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.

 

Isaiah 41:13 ~ For I am the Lord

Getting Past Lethargy (Proverbs 18:9)

1 Chronicles 17:7 ~ I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep, to be prince over my people Israel. 
 
 
KEEPING THE RIGHT SIZE 
 
 
After things had settled for David, he pondered the fact that he was living in a beautiful home while the ark of God was housed in a tent. Nathan the prophet listened to David and encourage him to do whatever was in his mind to do about the matter. But later that night, God spoke to Nathan, and told him otherwise. In essence, Nathan was instructed to tell David, “Thanks…but no thanks!” (1 Chronicles 17:1-15) David was the king, but he was not the Lord, It was the Lord’s decision to determine when a permanent resting place of the ark would be built, and who would build it. 
 
 
In my flesh it is a natural tendency to forget where the Lord found me the wreckage that was left behind when I was in control of things. God is God and I am not God. He saved me. I did not save myself. I was the one who could not string two or three days together without eating compulsively. I was the one who felt unloved and forgotten by God. But God in His mercy sought me, found me, and placed my life on The Solid Rock. I am forever grateful, and I pray to keep the right size so that I am not trying to run ahead of God and miss out on even more blessings. 
 
 
{Dear Father, You have plans for my life, and You know what they are. Keep me humbly coming before You throughout the day asking for the next right thing to do. Help me to stay the right size. Before I attempt to do for You, I pray to remember what You have done for me. Your love for me amazing! I pray that my abstinent life today in the word will bring honor to You. It is in the name of Jesus that I pray. Amen.} 
 
 
KEEPING THE RIGHT SIZE (1 Chronicles 17:7): AUDIO http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Keeping-The-Right-Size.wav

1 Chronicles 17:7 ~ I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep, to be prince over my people Israel.


KEEPING THE RIGHT SIZE


After things had settled for David, he pondered the fact that he was living in a beautiful home while the ark of God was housed in a tent. Nathan the prophet listened to David and encourage him to do whatever was in his mind to do about the matter. But later that night, God spoke to Nathan, and told him otherwise. In essence, Nathan was instructed to tell David, “Thanks…but no thanks!” (1 Chronicles 17:1-15) David was the king, but he was not the Lord, It was the Lord’s decision to determine when a permanent resting place of the ark would be built, and who would build it.


In my flesh it is a natural tendency to forget where the Lord found me the wreckage that was left behind when I was in control of things. God is God and I am not God. He saved me. I did not save myself. I was the one who could not string two or three days together without eating c

Keeping The Right Size (1 Chronicles 17:7)

1 Corinthians 1:11-12 ~ My brothers and sisters, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. What I mean is this: One of you says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “I follow Cephas”; still another, “I follow Christ.” 
 
 
NOT A SPECTATOR’S SPORT 
 
 
** It is common place in the world for groups of people to become fans of those who make great accomplishments. 
** These fans derive great pleasure in arguing with the fans of other groups about “who is the greatest”. 
** Christianity is not a sport’s event. We have not been called to sit in the bleachers cheering on our heroes. We have been called to join God in the hard work of winning souls. 
{Dear Father, keep us mindful that we have been set apart to lead the world to the glorious light of Jesus. Help us to remember that the devil is continuously attempting to distract us from this mission. We pray not to envy and compete with one another. In deep compassion and brotherly love, we pray to walk side by side and hand in hand, bringing the lost to the love of Jesus. It is in the name of Jesus that we pray. Amen.} 
Romans 12:2 ~ Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. 
Isaiah 55:1 ~ Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink— even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk— it’s all free! 
2 Corinthians 3:6 ~ He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. 
NOT A SPECTATOR’S SPORT (1 Corinthians 1:11-12) AUDIO: http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Not-A-Spectators-Sport.wav

1 Corinthians 1:11-12 ~ My brothers and sisters, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. What I mean is this: One of you says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “I follow Cephas”; still another, “I follow Christ.”


NOT A SPECTATOR’S SPORT


** It is common place in the world for groups of people to become fans of those who make great accomplishments. 
** These fans derive great pleasure in arguing with the fans of other groups about “who is the greatest”. 
** Christianity is not a sport’s event. We have not been called to sit in the bleachers cheering on our heroes. We have been called to join God in the hard work of winning souls.
{Dear Father, keep us mindful that we have been set apart to lead the world to the glorious light of Jesus. Help us to remember that the devil is continuously attempting to distract us from this mission. We pray not to envy and compete with one another. In deep compassion and brotherly love, we pr

Not A Spectators Sport (1 Corinthians 1:11-12)

. 
 
 
Psalm 66:13-14 ~ I will come to your temple with burnt offerings and fulfill my vows to you— vows my lips promised and my mouth spoke when I was in trouble. 
 
 
PROMISES. PROMISES 
 
 
** Prayers can be quite profuse in a time of trouble and distress. When the devil is chasing us down, our mouths can make all manner of promises to God. 
** Unfortunately, when the heat has been removed, these types of promises show themselves to be empty and futile. 
** God is not looking for me to make a deal. He is desiring that I turn from sin with true repentance. 
 
{Dear Father, please keep me steadfast and faithful. I pray to listen to the words I speak and the vows I make. I pray to remember the gravity of sin…how it wounds You—the one who loves me greater than any other! I pray to protect the honor of Your name regardless of the cost. May my heart stay in awe of the mercy You have shown in saving my life. May I praise You forever in the congregation of the people. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.} 
 
1 Chronicles 16:11-12 ~ Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced. 
 
Psalm 51:17 ~ The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise. 
 
Hebrews 13:16 ~. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. 
 
PROMISES. PROMISES. ( Psalm 66:13-14) AUDIO http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Promises.-Promises..wav

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Psalm 66:13-14 ~ I will come to your temple with burnt offerings and fulfill my vows to you— vows my lips promised and my mouth spoke when I was in trouble.


PROMISES. PROMISES


** Prayers can be quite profuse in a time of trouble and distress. When the devil is chasing us down, our mouths can make all manner of promises to God.
** Unfortunately, when the heat has been removed, these types of promises show themselves to be empty and futile.
** God is not looking for me to make a deal. He is desiring that I turn from sin with true repentance.

{Dear Father, please keep me steadfast and faithful. I pray to listen to the words I speak and the vows I make. I pray to remember the gravity of sin…how it wounds You—the one who loves me greater than any other! I pray to protect the honor of Your name regardless of the cost. May my heart stay in awe of the mercy You have shown in saving my life. May I praise You forever in the congregation of the people. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Promises. Promises. (Psalm 66:13-14)

Acts 22:15 ~ You will be His witness to everyone of what you have seen and heard. 
 
 
BE HIS WITNESS 
 
 
 
 
** One of the greatest signs of appreciation to God is to live a holy and upright life before the world. 
** We do not live to be seen, but we cannot ignore the fact that our lives are on display in a world that is searching for love, joy and peace. 
** People will be drawn to the Lord as they consistently see these qualities alive in our day to day lives. 
 
{Dear Father, we ask Your strength to keep in step with the Spirit that indwells us. Keep us in Your word so that we can learn about our new identity in Christ. Give us the willingness and the strength to resist pride and dishonesty which repels many. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.} 
 
Acts 1:8 ~ You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. 
 
Matthew 5:16 ~ let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. 
 
1 Peter 2:9 ~ You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 
 
 
BE HIS WITNESS (Acts 22:15) AUDIO: http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Be-His-Witness.mp3

Acts 22:15 ~ You will be His witness to everyone of what you have seen and heard.


BE HIS WITNESS




** One of the greatest signs of appreciation to God is to live a holy and upright life before the world.
** We do not live to be seen, but we cannot ignore the fact that our lives are on display in a world that is searching for love, joy and peace.
** People will be drawn to the Lord as they consistently see these qualities alive in our day to day lives.

{Dear Father, we ask Your strength to keep in step with the Spirit that indwells us. Keep us in Your word so that we can learn about our new identity in Christ. Give us the willingness and the strength to resist pride and dishonesty which repels many. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.}

Acts 1:8 ~  You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

Matthew 5:16 ~ let your light

Be His Witness (Acts 22:15)

Job 15:14 ~ What is man, that he can be pure? Or he who is born of a woman, that he can be righteous? 
 
 
NO ONE RIGHTEOUS 
 
 
 
 
** The book of Job gives the account of a man who went through a horrific season in his life. His property was destroyed. His children were killed. His body became covered with festering boils. 
** Everyone is appalled at Job’s misfortune. His closest friends believe that God would not allow something this terrible to happen to him unless Job had done something wrong and is covering it up. And in so many words, they begin telling Job this very thing! 
** In an attempt to vindicate himself, Job becomes more and more adamant about his righteousness. 
** Job’s friends were wrong---Job’s misdeeds had not caused this calamity. But Job was wrong, too. As he pushes to defend himself, his real sins of self-righteousness and self-sufficiency comes to the surface. God will later have to tell Job about himself! 
 
{Dear Father, please expose my self-righteous behaviors and haughty musings. I pray to turn from these and run to You. When my friends misunderstand me and hurt me with their accusations and attitudes, I pray not to fight “fire with fire”. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.} 
 
Romans 3:10-11 ~ None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. 
 
James 4:11 ~ Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. And if you judge the law, you are not a practitioner of the law, but a judge of it. 
 
Psalm 118:29 ~ Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Job 15:14 ~ What is man, that he can be pure? Or he who is born of a woman, that he can be righteous?


NO ONE RIGHTEOUS




** The book of Job gives the account of a man who went through a horrific season in his life. His property was destroyed. His children were killed. His body became covered with festering boils.
**  Everyone is appalled at Job’s misfortune. His closest friends believe that God would not allow something this terrible to happen to him unless Job had done something wrong and is covering it up. And in so many words, they begin telling Job this very thing!
** In an attempt to vindicate himself, Job becomes more and more adamant about his righteousness.
** Job’s friends were wrong---Job’s misdeeds had not caused this calamity. But Job was wrong, too. As he pushes to defend himself, his real sins of self-righteousness and self-sufficiency comes to the surface. God will later have to tell Job about himself! 

{Dear Father, please expose my self-righteous behaviors and hau

No One Righteousness (Job 15:14)

Psalm 96:2-3 ~ Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples. 
 
 
SING TO THE LORD 
 
 
 
** It is a safeguard for me to tell others about the Good News of Jesus Christ. 
** When I tell others, I remind myself of this marvelous gift that God has allowed me to experience! 
** I was lost, but now I stand on the Solid Rock! 
 {Dear Father, open our eyes to the people who need to hear about You today. Give us the inspiration from Scripture that will make an eternal difference in their lives. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.} 
Mark 16:15 ~ And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. 
Psalm 103:1-4 ~ Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! 
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, 
who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy. 
 
Psalm 117:1-2 ~ Praise the Lord, all nations! Extol him, all peoples! For great is his steadfast love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord! 
 
SING TO THE LORD (Psalm 96:2-3) ~ Audio http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Psalm-96_2_3.mp3

Psalm 96:2-3 ~ Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day.  Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples.


SING TO THE LORD



** It is a safeguard for me to tell others about the Good News of Jesus Christ. 
** When I tell others, I remind myself of this marvelous gift that God has allowed me to experience! 
** I was lost, but now I stand on the Solid Rock!
 {Dear Father, open our eyes to the people who need to hear about You today. Give us the inspiration from Scripture that will make an eternal difference in their lives. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.}
Mark 16:15 ~ And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. 
Psalm 103:1-4 ~ Bless the Lord, O my soul,  and all that is within me, bless his holy name! 
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, 
who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you wi

Sing to the Lord (Psalm 96:2-3)

Mark 13:23 ~ Be on your guard; I have told you everything in advance. 
 
** As the return of Jesus gets closer with each passing day, we are called to be on guard for false prophets. 
 
 
GOD WARNS US BEFORE HAND 
 
 
 
 
** A false prophet pretends to be a spokesperson for God, but in truth he is a very crafty liar. 
** God’s word is designed to help us receive “heads up” daily information from God. We can recognize the evil one in his many disguises by staying immersed in the word of God. 
** God loves us, so He informs us beforehand of things that are going to happen. 
{Dear Father, please keep us reading through Your whole word---year after year after year. We never want to stop growing and learning how to overcome the difficulties in our lives. You are a magnificent teacher! We pray always to be Your willing students. It is in the name of Jesus that we pray. Amen.} 
Colossians 2:8 ~ Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ. 
1 John 3:7 ~ Dear children, don’t let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it shows that they are righteous, even as Christ is righteous. 
2 Peter 2:1-3 ~ Now there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. 2 Many will follow in their depravity, and because of them the way of truth will be defamed. 3In their greed, these false teachers will exploit you with deceptive words. The longstanding verdict against them remains in force, and their destruction does not sleep. 
 
GOD WARNS US IN ADVANCE (Mark 13:23) ~ Audio: http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/God-Warns-Us-In-Advance.mp3

Mark 13:23  ~ Be on your guard; I have told you everything in advance.

** As the return of Jesus gets closer with each passing day, we are called to be on guard for false prophets.


GOD WARNS US BEFORE HAND




** A false prophet pretends to be a spokesperson for God, but in truth he is a very crafty liar.
** God’s word is designed to help us receive “heads up” daily information from God. We can recognize the evil one in his many disguises by staying immersed in the word of God. 
** God loves us, so He informs us beforehand of things that are going to happen.
{Dear Father, please keep us reading through Your whole word---year after year after year.  We never want to stop growing and learning how to overcome the difficulties in our lives.  You are a magnificent teacher!  We pray always to be Your willing students. It is in the name of Jesus that we pray. Amen.}
Colossians 2:8 ~ Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinkin

God Warns Us In Advance (Mark 13:23)

Psalm 112:6 ~ For the righteous will never be moved; he will be remembered forever. 
 
 
UNSHAKEABLE. UNMOVABLE. 
 
 
 
** In Nehemiah 6:10-13, Nehemiah is told by the prophet Shemiah that people were coming to kill him by night. Shemiah urged Nehemiah to go with him into the temple for protection. 
** Nehemiah refused to run away and would not go with him. This proved to be a wise decision for it was later discovered that Shemiah was lying to Nehemiah. 
** Shemiah had been hired by the enemies of Nehemiah in hopes that fear would cause Nehemiah to take action that would discredit him. 
** But Nehemiah was one who looked to God to direct him and protect him. His faith in God kept him standing firm and fearless. 
{Dear Father, teach me to stand unraveled in the face of fearful rumors. Help me to become one who prays unceasingly as Nehemiah did. May I carry the death of Jesus (2 Corinthians 4:10) very close to my heart. May I remember that it is Christ in me that strengthen me to fearlessly stay on course. Thank you for all that You are teaching me. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.} 
Exodus 14:13-14 ~ And Moses said to the people, “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will work for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall never see again. 14 The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.” 
Isaiah 8:11-13 ~ For the LORD spoke thus to me with his strong hand upon me, and warned me not to walk in the way of this people, saying: “Do not call conspiracy all that this people calls conspiracy, and do not fear what they fear, nor be in dread. But the LORD of hosts, him you shall honor as holy. Let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. 
2 Timothy 1:7 ~ For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 
 
UNSHAKEABLE. UNMOVEABLE. (Psalm 112:6) ~ Audio: http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Unshakeable.-Unmoveable..mp3

Psalm 112:6 ~ For the righteous will never be moved; he will be remembered forever.


UNSHAKEABLE. UNMOVABLE.



**  In Nehemiah 6:10-13, Nehemiah is told by the prophet Shemiah that people were coming to kill him by night. Shemiah urged Nehemiah to go with him into the temple for protection.
**  Nehemiah refused to run away and would not go with him. This proved to be a wise decision for it was later discovered that Shemiah was lying to Nehemiah.
** Shemiah had been hired by the enemies of Nehemiah in hopes that fear would cause Nehemiah to take action that would discredit him.
** But Nehemiah was one who looked to God to direct him and protect him. His faith in God kept him standing firm and fearless.
{Dear Father, teach me to stand unraveled in the face of fearful rumors. Help me to become one who prays unceasingly as Nehemiah did. May I carry the death of Jesus (2 Corinthians 4:10) very close to my heart. May I remember that it is Christ in me that strengthen me to fearlessly stay 

Unshakeable  Unmovable. (Psalm 112:6)

Psalm 7:16 ~ The trouble they make for others backfires on them. The violence they plan falls on their own heads. 
 
 
ON THEIR OWN HEADS 
 
 
 
 
**As long as we live on this side of heaven we will have people oppose us as we make a determination to do the work of the Lord. 
** We might be tempted to avenge ourselves, but we are warned not to do this (Romans 12:19-21). God is the avenger. He WILL repay! 
** Moreover, the wrong that they had planned against us, sometimes turn back upon their own head. 
 
{Dear Father, teach us to love as Jesus loves. We pray to keep our eyes upon Him! We pray to trust that all things are going to work out for our good, because we love You. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.} 
Ezra 6:6-9 ~ 6 So King Darius II sent this message[a] to Governor Shethar-bozenai and the other officials west of the Euphrates: “Do not disturb the construction of the Temple. Let it be rebuilt on its former site, 7 and don’t molest the governor of Judah and the other leaders in their work. 8 Moreover, I decree that you are to pay the full construction costs without delay from my taxes collected in your territory. 9 Give the priests in Jerusalem young bulls, rams, and lambs for burnt offerings to the God of heaven; and give them wheat, wine, salt, and olive oil each day without fail. 
ON THEIR OWN HEADS (Psalm 7:16) ~ Audio: http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/On-Their-Own-Heads.mp3

Psalm 7:16 ~ The trouble they make for others backfires on them. The violence they plan falls on their own heads.


ON THEIR OWN HEADS




**As long as we live on this side of heaven we will have people oppose us as we make a determination to do the work of the Lord.
** We might be tempted to avenge ourselves, but we are warned not to do this (Romans 12:19-21). God is the avenger. He WILL repay! 
** Moreover, the wrong that they had planned against us, sometimes turn back upon their own head.

{Dear Father, teach us to love as Jesus loves. We pray to keep our eyes upon Him! We pray to trust that all things are going to work out for our good, because we love You. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.} 
Ezra 6:6-9 ~ 6 So King Darius II sent this message[a] to Governor Shethar-bozenai and the other officials west of the Euphrates: “Do not disturb the construction of the Temple. Let it be rebuilt on its former site, 7 and don’t molest the governor of Judah and the other lead

On Their Own Heads (Psalm 7:16)

Acts 13:1 ~ Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 
 
 
A MAN NAMED NIGER 
 
 
 
 
**There were prophets and teachers in the church of Antioch. This means that they had men in the church who were mature in the faith, who knew the word of God and had the skill to teach it to the people. 
** One of these men was called Niger which means black or dark. This catches my eye because I am black. 
** Most of the time, I do not think about being a black woman who has been chosen to teach the word of God. But sometimes being black and being a woman seems to matter a lot to some. 
** Whatever…This I know is true…it doesn’t matter to God! He knows my heart and I have given it to Him. He is my Lord. He is my Savior! 
** John 1:1-3 ~ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 
** God made everything about me. He knows everything about me. God wants to use me to reach many and I want to be used this way, too! 
{Dear Father, the devil will try many things to keep me running in place. I must set my face like a flint to make certain that this doesn’t happen. In this very day…in this very moment…fill me with the Holy Spirit so that my faith is a blazing flame! Let me say with boldness, again and again…Holy Spirit You are welcomed here! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.} 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8oZXSZBBBM&autoplay=1 
 
A MAN CALLED NIGER (Acts 13:1) ~ Audio: http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/A-Man-Called-Niger.mp3

Acts 13:1 ~ Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.


A MAN NAMED NIGER




**There were prophets and teachers in the church of Antioch. This means that they had men in the church who were mature in the faith, who knew the word of God and had the skill to teach it to the people.
** One of these men was called Niger which means black or dark. This catches my eye because I am black.
** Most of the time, I do not think about being a black woman who has been chosen to teach the word of God. But sometimes being black and being a woman seems to matter a lot to some. 
** Whatever…This I know is true…it doesn’t matter to God! He knows my heart and I have given it to Him. He is my Lord. He is my Savior!
** John 1:1-3 ~ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were 

A Man Called Niger (Acts 13:1)

Joshua 1:7 ~ Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. 
 
 
LAYING THE GROUNDWORK FOR A FALL 
 
 
 
** God is the author of every good thing in my life. If I forget this, I lay the groundwork for a fall. This is exactly what happened to King Uzziah! 
** Uzziah was 16 years old when he became king (2 Chronicles 26:1). In his early years he pursued the Lord under the mentorship of a certain Godly man named Zechariah. As he sought the Lord, God gave Uzziah prosperity (2 Chronicles 26:5). 
** Unfortunately, as Uzziah became more and more successful, he became more and more prideful. He put himself above the commands of God (2 Chronicles 26:16-20) and was struck with leprosy! 
** His son Jotham had to become a co-regent while Uzziah had to spend the rest of his days in a separate house, being excluded from the temple (2 Chronicles 26:21). 
{Dear Father, my pride stirs up amnesia. I forget where You found me. I forget how far You have brought me. I forget that You are sustaining me in ways that I cannot imagine! Please keep me kneeling before Your throne with a heart of sincere gratitude and praise. Convict me when I am turning to the right or left from what You have commanded. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.} 
 
LAYING THE GROUNDWORK FOR A FALL (Joshua 1:7) ~ Audio: http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Laying-the-Groundwork-fo-a-Fall.mp3

Joshua 1:7 ~ Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go.


LAYING THE GROUNDWORK FOR A FALL 



** God is the author of every good thing in my life. If I forget this, I lay the groundwork for a fall. This is exactly what happened to King Uzziah!
** Uzziah was 16 years old when he became king (2 Chronicles 26:1). In his early years he pursued the Lord under the mentorship of a certain Godly man named Zechariah. As he sought the Lord, God gave Uzziah prosperity (2 Chronicles 26:5). 
** Unfortunately, as Uzziah became more and more successful, he became more and more prideful. He put himself above the commands of God (2 Chronicles 26:16-20) and was struck with leprosy!
** His son Jotham had to become a co-regent while Uzziah had to spend the rest of his days in a separate house, being excluded from the temple (2 Chr

Laying the Groundwork for a Fall (Joshua 1:7)

Psalm 119:11 ~ I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. 
 
 
STAYING THE COURSE 
 
 
** It is very sad, but very true that many in the Bible start off strong but end up very poorly. In our readings recently was the story of King Asa (2 Chronicles 14:1-16:14). 
** Asa made tremendous headway in leading the people away from the false idols and back to the heart of God. Nevertheless at the very end of his reign he began making poor choices. 
** He became rebellious and even cruel! His life ended with a severe disease that affected his feet. 
** 2 Chronicles 16:12-13 ~ In the thirty-ninth year of his reign Asa was afflicted with a disease in his feet. Though his disease was severe, even in his illness he did not seek help from the Lord, but only from the physicians. Then in the forty-first year of his reign Asa died and rested with his ancestors. 
{Dear Father, Asa did not stay the course. If it happened to such a good king, it can happen to me! Please keep me in Your word so that I can see when I am straying and listening to the wrong voice. Help me to feel Your love for me every day and throughout the day in ways that it captures my heart for You. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.} 
HOW TO STAY THE COURSE WITH THE BIBLE: 1) Keep the awareness that THIS IS WAR! The devil is real. Stay away from people and places that try to convince you that this is not true. Stay close to people who encourage you to keep reading and studying your Bible…not just by telling you, but by doing the same themselves. 2) Learn Bible Immersion and do it early and often. 3) If you ever miss an assignment, don’t try to catch up. Instead, complete the Bible Immersion assignment for the day, then, go out and practice living out what you learned. 4) Make it a goal to never give up! Push through until reading through the Bible becomes something you embrace with joy. You WILL see dramatic changes happenings in your life as you practice immersing in the word with your whole heart! 
 
STAYING THE COURSE (Psalm 119:11) ~ Audio: http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Staying-the-Course.mp3

Psalm 119:11 ~ I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.


STAYING THE COURSE


** It is very sad, but very true that many in the Bible start off strong but end up very poorly. In our readings recently was the story of King Asa (2 Chronicles 14:1-16:14).
** Asa made tremendous headway in leading the people away from the false idols and back to the heart of God. Nevertheless at the very end of his reign he began making poor choices.
** He became rebellious and even cruel! His life ended with a severe disease that affected his feet.
** 2 Chronicles 16:12-13 ~  In the thirty-ninth year of his reign Asa was afflicted with a disease in his feet. Though his disease was severe, even in his illness he did not seek help from the Lord, but only from the physicians. Then in the forty-first year of his reign Asa died and rested with his ancestors.
{Dear Father, Asa did not stay the course. If it happened to such a good king, it can happen to me! Please keep me in Your w

Staying the Course (Psalm 119:11)

KEEPING OUR WORD 
 
Deuteronomy 23:23 ~ Whatever your lips utter you must be sure to do, because you made your vow freely to the LORD your God with your own mouth. 
 
** When one of David’s sons (Absalom) attempted to take over the throne, one of David’s enemies (Shimei, from the tribe of Benjamin) took the opportunity to tell David how much he hated him! As David was fleeing Jerusalem, Shimei shouted curses at David and at all the servants of the king. (2 Samuel 16:5-8) 
** Unfortunately for Shimei, the coup did not “take” and when David came back to power, there was talk of putting Shimei to death (2 Samuel 19:21). But David did no harm against him. 
** After David’s death, the throne was passed to Solomon. Solomon gave Shimei the option to never leave the city for ANYTHING or to lose his life. Shimei agreed never to leave Jerusalem. 
**1 Kings 2:36-38 ~ Then the king sent and summoned Shimei and said to him, “Build yourself a house in Jerusalem and dwell there, and do not go out from there to any place whatever. For on the day you go out and cross the brook Kidron, know for certain that you shall die. Your blood shall be on your own head.” And Shimei said to the king, “What you say is good; as my lord the king has said, so will your servant do.” So Shimei lived in Jerusalem many days. 
** Nevertheless, Shimei broke his promise. It happened at the end of three years when two of his servants ran away and he saddle his donkey, went to Gath, and brought them back! (1 Kings 2:39) 
** Shimei did not keep his side of the bargain, but Solomon did! On that very day, Shimei lost his life! (2 Kings 2:41-46) 
{Dear Father, in the flesh, I make a promise to get myself out of hot water or to win favor with men. In the flesh, I make a promise with little or no thought for keeping it. Please help me to remember that I belong to You now. I have been redeemed. I am not to walk in the flesh, but to keep in step with the Spirit (Galatians 5:16, 25). Please remind me throughout this day of the promises I have made. In the power of the Spirit, keep me always walking as a promise keeper...for Jesus’ sake In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.} 
DIG DEEPER 
• Do a verse study of Deuteronomy 23:23. Underline key words and look up their definitions. Write a paraphrase of this verse and plan to put it into action today. 
• Use a site such as openbible.info to find another Bible verse on honesty, integrity, and/or keeping your word. Write it out in the back of your Bible. Consider memorizing this verse. 
• Tell of a time when a promise was made to you, and it was broken. Was it resolved? Have you forgiven the person who broke the promise? What promises have you made that you have yet to keep? 
• How does staying “clear, clean, and committed” with your food help you to be a better promise keeper? (Give some specific examples.) 
 
 
KEEPING OUR WORD (Deuteronomy 23:23) ~ Audio: http://bibleforfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Keeping-Our-Promises.mp3

KEEPING OUR WORD

Deuteronomy 23:23 ~ Whatever your lips utter you must be sure to do, because you made your vow freely to the LORD your God with your own mouth.

** When one of David’s sons (Absalom) attempted to take over the throne, one of David’s enemies (Shimei, from the tribe of Benjamin) took the opportunity to tell David how much he hated him! As David was fleeing Jerusalem, Shimei shouted curses at David and at all the servants of the king. (2 Samuel 16:5-8)
** Unfortunately for Shimei, the coup did not “take” and when David came back to power, there was talk of putting Shimei to death (2 Samuel 19:21). But David did no harm against him.
** After David’s death, the throne was passed to Solomon. Solomon gave Shimei the option to never leave the city for ANYTHING or to lose his life. Shimei agreed never to leave Jerusalem. 
**1 Kings 2:36-38 ~ Then the king sent and summoned Shimei and said to him, “Build yourself a house in Jerusalem and dwell there, and do not go out from ther

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