God’s Vehicles – Clouds, Whirlwinds, Pillars (Part 1)

When reading about modes of transportation in the Old Testament, we need to remember that the only vehicles that the writers were familiar with were a horse or donkey and a cart. We have to try to visualize what they described. Whirlwinds and chariots were often mentioned. The book of Psalms proclaims, “The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels: the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place.” (Psalms 68:17)

An interesting scripture to first look at is in the book of Exodus. During the time of the exodus out of Egypt, God placed himself as a protection between the Israelis and the Egyptians. It says that God looked through the pillar of fire and of the cloud. We have to ask ourselves, what was this column of fire that was combined with a cloud? It states that the Egyptians were troubled. I would think they would have run as fast as they could in the other direction the minute they saw it, which they did not, and ended up perishing. “And It came to pass, that in the morning watch the LORD looked unto the host of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and of the cloud, and troubled the host of the Egyptians.” (Exodus 14:24)

It is written several places in the scriptures that as Moses and the people exited out of Egypt they were led by “The Cloud of the Lord”, by day and the “Pillar of Fire” by night. If the cloud was not raised off of the tabernacle, then they would not continue their pilgrimage that day. This cloud-pillar must have been quite tall, or high, because it says it was visible in the sight of all the house of Israel. “Then a cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter into the tent of the congregation, because the cloud abode thereon, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. And when the cloud was taken up from over the tabernacle, the children of Israel went onward in all their journeys: But if the cloud were not taken up, then they journeyed not till the day that it was taken up. For the cloud of the LORD was upon the tabernacle by day, and fire was on it by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys.” (Exodus 40:34-38) This same situation, of continuing their journey only when the cloud was lifted, is described for us in the book of Numbers. “So it was always: the cloud covered it by day, and the appearance of fire by night. And when the cloud was taken up from the tabernacle, then after that the children of Israel journeyed: and in the place where the cloud abode, there the children of Israel pitched their tents. At the commandment of the LORD the children of Israel journeyed, and at the commandment of the LORD they pitched: as long as the cloud abode upon the tabernacle they rested in their tents. And when the cloud tarried long upon the tabernacle many days, then the children of Israel kept the charge of the LORD, and journeyed not. And so it was, when the cloud was a few days upon the tabernacle; according to the commandment of the LORD they abode in their tents, and according to the commandment of the LORD they journeyed. And so it was, when the cloud abode from even unto the morning, and that the cloud was taken up in the morning, then they journeyed: whether it was by day or by night that the cloud was taken up, they journeyed. Or whether it were two days, or a month, or a year, that the cloud tarried upon the tabernacle, remaining thereon, the children of Israel abode in their tents, and journeyed not: but when it was taken up, they journeyed. At the commandment of the LORD they rested in the tents, and at the commandment of the LORD they journeyed: they kept the charge of the LORD, at the commandment of the LORD by the hand of Moses.” (Numbers 9:16-23)

Moses made mention of this while scolding the people for their lack of belief. “Who went in the way before you, to search you out a place to pitch your tents in, in fire by night, to shew you by what way ye should go, and in a cloud by day.” (Deuteronomy 1:33)

During their second month, after departing from Egypt, the people began to grumble against Moses and Aaron. Moses told the people that because he had heard their grumbling they were about to see the glory of the LORD. I’m curious as to what they saw in the cloud? “And Moses spake unto Aaron, Say unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, Come near before the LORD: for he hath heard your murmurings. And it came to pass, as Aaron spake unto the whole congregation of the children of Israel, that they looked toward the wilderness, and, behold, the glory of the LORD appeared in the cloud.” (Exodus 16:9-10)

The experience of the people at Mount Sinai is one like no other group of people in history have ever had or seen. Moses took the people to meet God. God informed the people, through Moses, that he would come to them in a “thick cloud.” Was the thick cloud hiding something? Prior to his appearing, God cautioned the people several times that they would be killed if they crossed a certain point. Could there have been some kind of electrical type force protecting the area, or permeating off of a vehicle in the dark cloud on the mountain? It says there was thunder and lightning, and the mountain quaked. It would take an enormous vehicle to cause the mountain to shake. The Lord then descended upon it in the fire. Can you imagine experiencing something like that today? It’s hard to understand, after seeing such an incredible sight, how the people so quickly doubted and rebelled. God said the people would believe forever. What a disappointment we must be to God.
“And the LORD said unto Moses, Lo, I come unto thee in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with thee, and believe thee for ever. And Moses told the words of the people unto the LORD.”
“And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to day and tomorrow, and let them wash their clothes, And be ready against the third day: for the third day the LORD will come down in the sight of all the people upon mount Sinai. And thou shalt set bounds unto the people round about, saying, Take heed to yourselves, that ye go not up into the mount, or touch the border of it: whosoever toucheth the mount shall be surely put to death: There shall not an hand touch it, but he shall surely be stoned, or shot through; whether it be beast or man, it shall not live: when the trumpet soundeth long, they shall come up to the mount.
“And Moses went down from the mount unto the people, and sanctified the people; and they washed their clothes. And he said unto the people, Be ready against the third day: come not at your wives.
“And it came to pass on the third day in the morning, that there were thunders and lightnings, and a thick cloud upon the mount, and the voice of the trumpet exceeding loud; so that all the people that was in the camp trembled. And Moses brought forth the people out of the camp to meet God; and they stood at the nether part of the mount. And Mount Sinai was altogether on a smoke, because the LORD descended upon it in fire: and the smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mount quaked greatly. And when the voice of the trumpet sounded long, and waxed louder and louder, Moses spake, and God answered him by a voice. And the LORD came down upon Mount Sinai, on the top of the mount: and the LORD called Moses up to the top of the mount; and Moses went up. And the LORD said unto Moses, Go down, charge the people, lest they break through unto the LORD to gaze and many of them perish. (Exodus 19:9-21)

We discover that the “Cloud,” referred to in verse sixteen, is mentioned other times in the scriptures. Most involved Moses during his time at Mt. Sinai. “And Moses went up into the mount, and a cloud covered the mount. And the glory of the LORD abode upon Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days: and the seventh day he called unto Moses out of the midst of the cloud.” (Exodus 24:15-16)
In one circumstance, Moses spent forty days and forty nights up on the mountain in the cloud. “And Moses went into the midst of the cloud, and gat him up into the mount: and Moses was in the mount forty days and forty nights.” (Exodus 24:18)

In another instance, a cloudy pillar is described as standing at the door of the tabernacle and speaking with Moses. Again, I have to ask, was the cloud hiding something or in this case someone? This particular cloud was in the form of a man, which the people worshipped. “And it came to pass, as Moses entered into the tabernacle, the cloudy pillar descended, and stood at the door of the tabernacle, and the Lord talked with Moses. And all the people saw the cloudy pillar stand at the tabernacle door: and all the people rose up and worshipped, every man in his tent door.” (Exodus 33:9-10)
The LORD himself is described, in another verse, as descending down in the cloud. “And the LORD descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD.” (Exodus 34:5)

At another time, the appearance of the cloud over the tabernacle was a reminder to the people not to rebel against Moses. “And it came to pass, when the congregation was gathered against Moses and against Aaron, that they looked toward the tabernacle of the congregation: and, behold, the cloud covered it, and the glory of the LORD appeared.” (Numbers 16:42)

Here again, in the book of Numbers, it speaks of the LORD ascending down in the cloud. “And the LORD came down in a cloud, and spake unto him, and took of the spirit that was upon him, and gave it unto the seventy elders: and it came to pass, that, when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied, and did not cease.” (Numbers 11:25)

When disciplinary action was about to be taken against Moses’ sister, Miriam, the pillar of the cloud appears. “And the LORD came down in the pillar of the cloud, and stood in the door of the tabernacle, and called Aaron and Miriam: and they both came forth.” (Numbers 12:5) When the cloud departed, Miriam had become leprous, and stayed that way for seven days.

SEE PART 2 FOR MORE INTERESTING INFORMATION CONCERNING GOD’S VEHICLES.

God’s Vehicles – Clouds, Whirlwinds, Pillars (2)

God warned Moses’ brother, Aaron, that he would die if he went into the holy place of the tabernacle, because he, the LORD, was going to be in a cloud upon the mercy seat. “And the LORD said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy place within the vail before the mercy seat, which is upon the ark; that he die not: for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy seat.” (Leviticus 16:2)

In II Samuel, David, in a prayer, describes God as being in the dark clouds. “And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly: and he was seen upon the wings of the wind. And he made darkness pavilions round about him, dark waters, and thick clouds of the skies.” (II Samuel 22:11-12) The clouds are spoken of in the Psalms. “Clouds and darkness are round about him: righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his throne.” (Psalms 97:2) “Who layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters: who maketh the clouds his chariot: who walketh upon the wings of the wind:” (Psalms 104:3)

Elijah the prophet, who was depressed at a certain time in his life had an extraordinary thing happen to him in the end. He never died a physical death, but instead was taken by God. We read of him later appearing with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration in the New Testament. How was he taken? What was it that took him? Elisha the prophet, his successor, witnessed Elijah’s departure. He described him as being taken up in a whirlwind. “And it came to pass, when the LORD would take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elisha went with Elijah from Gilgal.’ (II Kings 2:1)“And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven.” (II Kings 2:11)

The word “whirlwind” is used 22 times in the Old Testament. We find that Job, at two different instances, spoke with God through something that appeared to be a whirlwind. What was it? “Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, ” (Job 38:1)“Then answered the LORD unto Job out of the whirlwind,” (Job 40:6)

Isaiah also describes seeing what he called seraphims as well as The LORD. “In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.

Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts. Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar: And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged. Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.” Isaiah 6:1-8

Ezekiel gives the most intriguing description of a type of vehicle found in the scriptures. It’s a little difficult to understand, but remember a donkey and a cart are the extent of his knowledge at that time. Again he begins with a whirlwind. He speaks of wheels that are on their sides, and then describes a wheel inside the wheel. The color amber, mentioned in verses four and twenty-seven, is described in the Strong‘s Hebrew dictionary as a shining substance, amber or electrum or bronze (highly polished bronze). In verse eighteen, Ezekiel describes the wheels as being “very terrible”, meaning awesome, as well as very tall or high. Could the “rings full of eyes” be something like windows? The expression, “turned not as they went,” to Ezekiel could have meant they didn’t turn their heads like he would think of a horse turning their head as they turn. These just went one way or the other, without turning their heads. When reading this description, we need to consider that part of the time he was speaking of the vehicles and part of the time of the beings on the vehicles. The part where he speaks of the “straight legs” or their “wings coming down,” could mean some sort of landing gear coming down. One other thing to consider is the mentioning of four heads. These were also symbols used by the twelve tribes of Israel. These creatures could have been vehicles with the four symbols on each side. We can’t know for sure what it all means. Perhaps you can decipher more information from it when you read it.
“And I looked, and, behold, a whirlwind came out of the north, a great cloud, and a fire infolding itself, and a brightness was about it, and out of the midst thereof as the colour of amber, out of the midst of the fire. Also out of the midst thereof came the likeness of four living creatures. And this was their appearance; they had the likeness of a man. And every one had four faces, and everyone had four wings. And their feet were straight feet; and the sole of their feet was like the sole of a calf’s foot: and they sparkled like the colour of burnished brass. And they had the hands of a man under their wings on their four sides; and they four had their faces and their wings. Their wings were joined one to another; they turned not when they went; they went every one straightforward. As for the likeness of their faces, they four had the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the right side: and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an eagle. Thus were their faces: and their wings were stretched upward; two wings of every one were joined one to another, and two covered their bodies. And they went every one straightforward: whither the spirit was to go, they went; and they turned not when they went. As for the likeness of the living creatures, their appearance was like burning coals of fire, and like the appearance of lamps: it went up and down among the living creatures: and the fire was bright, and out of the fire went forth lightning. And the living creatures ran and returned as the appearance of flash of lightning.
“Now as I beheld the living creatures, behold one wheel upon the earth by the living creatures, with his four faces. The appearance of the wheels and their work was like unto the colour of a beryl: and they four had one likeness: and their appearance and their work was as it were a wheel in the middle of a wheel. When they went, they went upon their four sides: and they turned not when they went. As for their rings, they were so high that they were dreadful; and their rings were full of eyes round about them four. And when the living creatures went, the wheels went by them: and when the living creatures were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up. Whithersoever the spirit was to go, they went, thither was their spirit to go; and the wheels were lifted up over against them: for the spirit of the living creature was in the wheels. When those went, these went; and when those stood, these stood; and when those were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up over against them: for the spirit of the living creature was in the wheels. And the likeness of the firmament upon the heads of the living creature was as the colour of the terrible crystal, stretched forth over their heads above. And under the firmament were their wings straight, the one toward the other: every one had two, which covered on this side, and every one had two, which covered on that side, their bodies. And when they went, I heard the noise of their wings, like the noise of great waters, as the voice of the Almighty, the voice of speech, as the noise of an host: when they stood, they let down their wings. And there was a voice from the firmament that was over their heads, when they stood, and had let down their wings.
“And above the firmament that was over their heads was the likeness of a throne, as the appearance of a sapphire stone; and upon the likeness of the throne was the likeness of the appearance of a man above upon it. And I saw as the colour of amber, as the appearance of fire round about within it, from the appearance of his loins even upward, and from the appearance of his loins even downward, I saw as it were the appearance of fire, and it had brightness round about. As the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud in the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness round about. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. And when I saw it, I fell upon my face, and I heard a voice of one that spake.” (Ezekiel 1:4-28)

A brief statement, concerning the throne and the wheels, is what Daniel described in the 2nd part of Daniel 7:9 “His throne was like the fiery flame and his wheels as burning fire.”

Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Zechariah the prophets, all three speak of the Lord coming in spectacular vehicles. Would we be prepared for this to happen in our lifetime? “For, behold, the LORD will come with fire, and with his chariots like a whirlwind, to render his anger with fury, and his rebuke with flames of fire.” (Isaiah 66:15) “Behold, he shall come up as clouds, and his chariots shall be as a whirlwind: his horses are swifter than eagles. Woe unto us! For we are spoiled.” (Jeremiah 4:13) “And the LORD shall be seen over them, and his arrow shall go forth as the lightning: and the LORD God shall blow the trumpet, and shall go with whirlwinds of the south.” (Zechariah 9:14) And, as we read previously of God coming with twenty thousand chariots or vehicles. Repeating: “The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels: the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place.” (Psalms 68:17)

There are several places in the scriptures, which speak of Jesus coming on the clouds. One being in the book of Revelation, we read: “Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.” (Revelation 1:7-8)

A Treasure to God

A TREASURE TO GOD

According to the following scriptures, if we will obey and fear (or reverence) Our Father, we will be considered a peculiar treasure or (valued property*) to him and the angel of the LORD will encamp around us and deliver us.
*Strong’s Hebrew Concordance #5459

Scripture:

Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine. (Exodus 19:5)

The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. (Fear can be interpreted revere.) (Psalms 34:7)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
If we reverence and obey Our Father, He considers us a valued treasure and the angel of the LORD will encamp around us.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

The Light

THE LIGHT

In the beginning, before the sun and the moon were created, the light was brought forth by God. Jesus says he came as a light and whoever believes on him will not abide in darkness. In the final chapter of the Bible the light is again mentioned describing a time when mankind shall see his face and understand truth.

Scripture:
God said, Let there be light; and there was light. And God saw the light that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. (Genesis 1:3-4)

He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him. (Daniel 2:22)

The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined. (Isaiah 9:2)

Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. (Isaiah 60:1)

For thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness. (Psalms 18:28)

For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light. (Psalms 36:9)

Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. (Psalms 112:4)

The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple. (Psalms 119:130)

In him was life; and the life was the light of men. (John 1:4)

And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. (John 1:5)

I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness. (John 12:46)

This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. (1ST John 1:5)

And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light; and they shall reign forever and ever. (Revelation 22:5)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
We have learned that in the beginning the light came into being before the sun and moon. In order to be removed from darkness and come into that light we must believe on Jesus Christ.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

God Will One Day Dwell with Man

Watering the Garden
GOD WILL ONE DAY DWELL WITH MAN

The Bible teaches that one day a just, peaceful and permanent government will be put in place here on earth. All nations will one day see and know God. Our Father’s plan is to create a new heavens and a new earth and to someday live here on earth with man and eliminate all that is sad, negative and painful.

Scripture:
For the LORD hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation. This is my rest forever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it. (Psalms 132:13-14)

Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. (Isaiah 9:7)

And he said unto me, Son of man, the place of my throne, and the place of the soles of my feet, where I will dwell in the midst of the children of Israel for ever, and my holy name, shall the house of Israel no more defile, neither they, nor their kings, by their whoredom, nor by the carcases of their kings in their high places. (Ezekiel 43:7)

And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. (Revelation 21:1-5)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
God plans to one day live here on earth with man and all that is negative will be eliminated.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

God Searches the Heart

Watering the Garden
GOD SEARCHES THE HEART

God knows what we are thinking. He searches the heart and mind of man and he assures us that someday all will be revealed. Both the good and the bad, which has not been repented for, will be exposed. It’s not always easy to say as the Psalmist did, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:”

Scripture:
And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee: but if thou forsake him, he will cast the off for ever. (1st Chronicles 28:9)

The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good. (Proverbs 15:3)

Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts. (Proverbs 21:2)

The LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings. (Jeremiah 17:10)

For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. (Luke 12:2)

And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God. (Luke 16:15)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
We have learned we can not hide anything from God and that someday all will be revealed. There are no secrets from Our Father.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

What Does God Desire of Man?

Watering the Garden
WHAT DOES GOD DESIRE OF MAN

Our Father informs us that he has shown through his word what he desires from us and also that He will teach us. He requests, through his prophet Moses, for us to hear, keep and do his statues. He assures us that He will be with us if we pursue what is good. Our Father desires most of all for us to believe in His son, Jesus Christ.

Speaking as a nation in the end times God says in Deuteronomy 32:28-29 “For they are a nation void of counsel, neither is there any understanding in them. O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end!”

Scripture:
He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God. (Micah 6:8)

I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. (Psalms 32:8)

Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. (Psalms 34:14)

Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live: and so the LORD, the God of hosts, shall be with you, as ye have spoken. (Amos 5:14)

He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (John 3:18)

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:6)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
God has revealed to us in his word what he requires of us and that is to hear and do what is in that word and to believe on His son, Jesus Christ.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

The Humble

Watering the Garden
THE HUMBLE

Our Father puts great value and says He is near to those who are humble. He promises that they will someday see and live in peace on this earth. He also promises to the humble, who are seeking justice and attempt to do what is right, that they may be hid in the day of His anger.

Scripture:
I Peter 3:4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

Psalms 34:18 The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.

Psalms 37:11 But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

Psalms 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou will not despise.

Isaiah 66:2 For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the LORD: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.

Zephaniah 2:3 Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD’s anger.

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
We have learned that Our Father places great value on humility and possibly the humble will be hid during the day of His anger.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

God Hides His Face

GOD HIDES HIS FACE

Many have asked the question, “Why does God allow bad things to happen, or why doesn’t he answer my prayers?” There are a couple of scriptures which may shed some light on this question. God says he may hide himself from man because man has turned to other gods, or because he has forget God and shows no faith. He also hides his face from those who do not consider God’s words as valuable?

Scripture:
Then my anger shall be kindled against them in that day, and I will forsake them, and I will hide my face from them, and they shall be devoured, and many evils and troubles shall befall them: so that they will say in that day, Are not these evils come upon us, because our God is not among us? And I will surly hide my face in that day for all the evils, which they shall have wrought, in that they are turned unto other gods. (Deuteronomy 31:17-18)

Of the Rock that begat thee thou art unmindful, and has forgotten God that formed thee. And when the LORD saw it, he abhorred them, because of the provoking of his sons, and of his daughters. And he said, I will hide my face from them; I will see what their end shall be: for they are a very froward generation, children in whom is no faith. (Deuteronomy 32:18-20)

Then shall they cry unto the LORD, but he will not hear them: he will even hide his face from them at that time, as they have behaved themselves ill in their doings. (Micah 3:4)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
We have learned that because of mans actions God at times hides himself from them.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Father and Son are One

RAINING TRUTH WATERING THE GARDEN

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FATHER AND SON ARE ONE

Sometimes the concept that the Father and the Son are one is difficult for us to understand. Jesus expressed clearly to Philip that those who have seen the son have seen the Father.

John said that Jesus was the Word and that the Word was God. Paul says in Colossians and 2nd Corinthians that Jesus Christ is the image of God.

Scripture:

If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? (John 14:7-9)

In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. (2nd Corinthians 4:4)

Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: (Colossians 1:12-15)

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (John 1:1)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
We have learned that Our Father and His Son, Jesus, are one.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Wisdom, The Word and Jesus

WISDOM, THE WORD AND JESUS

From the beginning wisdom and the Word existed. It appears obvious from the following scriptures that Jesus, wisdom and the Word are one in the same.

John wrote that the Word was God, and it was made flesh in the form of Jesus Christ. Also, John, this disciple whom Jesus dearly loved, so beautifully summed it up in this one verse: “He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.” John 1:10

Scripture:

Speaking of wisdom in The Proverbs we read that it was set up from everlasting.

The LORD possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old. I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water. Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth: While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the highest part of the dust of the world. When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth: When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep: When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth: Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him; Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men. (Proverbs 8:22-31)

Speaking of the Word John writes.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. (John 1:1-5)

And John discribes The Word as becoming Jesus Christ.

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
Old and New Testament scriptures teach us that wisdom, the Word and Jesus were here from the beginning.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

God Hates

RAINING TRUTH WATERING THE GARDEN

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GOD’S HATES

It is interesting to discover that God actually hates certain things and individuals. Seven things that God hates found in the book of Proverbs are a proud look, a false witnesses, shedding innocent blood, devising wickedness, being eager to be mischievousness, a liar, and those who sow discord.

We also read that He does not approve of cheating in business matters. He hates it when we follow after false gods and serve those gods. He hates it when we calculate evil in our minds against others and lie about them.

We find from the following scriptures that God does sometimes even hate individuals, such as Jacob’s twin brother, Esau.

Another thing which God states he hates is divorce but, keep in mind these are not unpardonable sins. We need to ask forgiveness for our part or failure and go on with a clean slate.

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

A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight. (Proverbs 11:1)

Because of their wickedness which they have committed to provoke me to anger, in that they went to burn incense, and to serve other gods, whom they knew not, neither they, ye, nor your fathers. Howbeit I sent unto you all my servants the prophets, rising early and sending them, saying, Oh, do not this abominable thing that I hate. (Jeremiah 44:3-4)

And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against his neighbour; and love no false oath: for all these are things that I hate, saith the LORD. (Zechariah 8:17)

And I hated Esau, and laid his mountains and his heritage waste for the dragons of the wilderness. (Malachi 1:3)

As it is written Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. (Romans 9:13)

For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away. (Malachi 2:16)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
There are actions and people that God hates.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Visions of God

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VISIONS OF GOD

Daniel gives us a unique description of God that he had seen in visions. He describes him as wearing a white linen garment with hair that had the appearance of wool. His face appeared like lightening with eyes that were like fire. His arms and feet were like polished brass.

I beheld till the thrones were cast down and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame and his wheels as burning fire. (Daniel 7:9)

Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz: His body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude. (Daniel 10:5-6)

Ezekiel describes a throne with a manlike being appearing on it. Ezekiel describes him as looking like fire with brightness around him. Ezekiel said he saw the glory of the LORD and fell on his face.

And above the firmament that was over their heads was the likeness of a throne, as the appearance of a sapphire stone; and upon the likeness of the throne was the likeness of the appearance of a man above upon it. And I saw as the colour of amber, as the appearance of fire round about within it, from the appearance of his loins even upward, and from the appearance of his loins even downward, I saw as it were the appearance of fire, and it had brightness round about. As the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud in the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness round about. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. And when I saw it, I fell upon my face, and I heard a voice of one that spake. (Ezekiel 1:26-28)

Another enlightening description is given in the book of Revelation. Again describing eyes of fire and feet that appeared as brass, just as described by Daniel.

And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire: And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. (Revelation 1:13-15)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
Daniel, Ezekiel and John give us an awesome description of God which they saw in visions.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Moses Given A Glimpse of God

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MOSES GIVEN A GLIMPSE OF GOD

Man, in the flesh in this dimension, is incapable of viewing the face of God except in visions and dreams. This scripture discloses a touching moment when God revealed his glory in an extraordinary way to Moses.

Scripture:
And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live. And the LORD said, Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock: And it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a cleft of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by: And I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen. (Exodus 33:20-23)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
We have witnessed a tender moment of love when Our Father blessed Moses with a glimpse of His glory.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this study of His word, Amen.
Susan

God’s Thoughts

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GOD’S THOUGHTS

Although we sometimes receive quick glimpses, God’s thoughts are far above our ability to comprehend or understand. This brings to mind Paul’s words in 1st Corinthians 13:12 “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.”

Scripture:
Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogance come out of your mouth: for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed. (1st Samuel 2:3)

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8-9)

Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered. (Psalms 40:5)

For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him. (Isaiah 64:4)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
It is impossible for our minds to conceive all that is to be known concerning God and his thoughts, but we find a glimpse of them in the scriptures.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Our Father Speaks of Himself

OUR FATHER SPEAKS OF HIMSELF

From the following scriptures we discover some of what our God has to say concerning himself. He called himself “I AM” to Moses and The “LORD” The “Holy One” to Isaiah. He wants us to understand that he is the beginning and the end and He will not share his glory with idols. He informs us by his word that there is no Saviour besides him and that no one can deliver out of his hand.

He informs us that he is our King. He it is that blots out sin and forgets it. He takes care of us even if we don’t know it. He made heaven and earth. He teaches us and leads us in the way we should go.

And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. (Exodus 3:14)

Who hath wrought and done it, calling the generations from the beginning? I the LORD, the first, and with the last; I am he. (Isaiah 41:4)

I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images. (Isaiah 42:8)

Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen; that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he; before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. I, even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no savior. (Isaiah 43:10-11)

Yea, before the day was I am he; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall let it? (Isaiah 43:13)

I am the LORD, your Holy One, the creator of Israel, your king. (Isaiah 43:15)

I even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. (Isaiah 43:25)

Thus saith the LORD the king of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first and I am the last, and beside me there is no God. (Isaiah 44:6)

I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me. That they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am the LORD, and there is none else. (Isaiah 45:5)

I have made the earth, and created man upon it: I, even my hands, have stretched out the heavens, and all their host have I commanded. I have raised him up in righteousness, and I will direct all his ways: he shall build my city, and he shall let go my captives, not for price or reward, saith the LORD of hosts. (Isaiah 45:12-13)

For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the LORD: and there is none else. (Isaiah 45:18)

Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldst go. (Isaiah 48:17)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
We have learned some of what God says concerning himself in the scriptures. He is I AM, The LORD, The Holy One, the beginning and the end and He will not share his glory. He informs us that He is the only Saviour, King, Creator, Teacher and Leader.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Abraham A Friend of God

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ABRAHAM A FRIEND OF GOD

Throughout the scriptures it is verified that Our Father considered Abraham his friend. The reason for this is because Abraham believed God.

We also are considered a friend of God, if we, as Abraham, believe God and keep his commandments.

Jesus considers us a friend and displayed the ultimate friendship toward us by giving his life for us.

Scripture:
But, thou, Israel, art my servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, the seed of Abraham my friend. (Isaiah 41:8)

Art not thou our God, who didst drive out the inhabitants of this land before thy people Israel, and gavest it to the seed of Abraham thy friend for ever? (2nd Chronicles 20:7)

And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness, and he was called the Friend of God. (James 2:23)

Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. (John 15:14)

Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. (John 15:15)

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. (John 15:13)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
If we believe and keep His Word God considers us a friend as he did Abraham. Jesus proved himself a friend by dying for us.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

God’s Vengeance

RAINING TRUTH WATERING THE GARDEN

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GOD’S VENGEANCE

God declares in his word that he will one day remove all that is evil and the souls who bring harm to his Kingdom. We who are his children have nothing to fear. His anger is not directed at us. As the book of Isaiah informs us, God’s vengeance will be a comfort to those who mourn. We can be encouraged by these words from the Psalms, “For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off.” (Psalms 37:28)

Scripture:
To me belongeth vengeance, and recompence; their foot shall slide in due time: for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste. (Deuteronomy 32:35)

If I whet my glittering sword, and mine hand take hold on judgment; I will render vengeance to mine enemies, and will reward them that hate me. (Deuteronomy 32:41)

God is jealous, and the LORD revengeth; the LORD revengeth, and is furious; the LORD will take vengeance on his adversaries, and he reserveth wrath for his enemies. (Nahum 1:2)

For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. (Psalms 37:2)

For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. (Psalms 37:10)

To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; (Isaiah 61:2)

For the day of vengeance is in mine heart, and the year of my redeemed is come. (Isaiah 63:4)

For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. (Jesus speaking reference the end times) (Luke 21:22)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
There will come a day when Our Father will destroy his enemies and those who would harm his children.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

God Is Jealous

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GOD IS JEALOUS

Our Father has feelings. He tells us in His Word that He feels hurt and jealousy when we turn to other gods. He considers other gods things which are made from objects he has created such as wood, stone, the sun, the moon or the earth. Other gods can also be people, business, houses, sports or things that we care more about than we do Him. We are to worship the creator, not what He has created.

Scripture:
Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you; (For the LORD thy God is a jealous God among you) least the anger of the LORD thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the face of the earth. (Deuteronomy 6:14-15)

They provoked him to jealousy with strange gods, with abominations provoked they him to anger. They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they knew not, to new gods that came newly up, whom your fathers feared not. (Deuteronomy 32:16-17)

For they provoked him to anger with their high places, and moved him to jealousy with their graven images. (Psalms 78:58)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
We have learned that Our Father is jealous and it hurts his feelings when we choose other gods or things over Him.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

God Feels Rejection

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GOD FEELS REJECTION

Our Father understands what it feels like to be rejected. He desired to reign over the children of Israel, but even after all he had done for them, they wanted an earthly king to rule over them like other people had. God felt hurt and rejected.

Scripture:
But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed unto the LORD. And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them. (1st Samuel 8:6-7)

And ye have this day rejected your God, who himself saved you out of all your adversities and your tribulations; and ye have said unto him, Nay, but set a king over us. Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes, and by your thousands. (1st Samuel 10:19)

Jesus Christ also knew what it felt like to suffer rejection. Even most of his disciples disappeared when Jesus was taken by the high priest, put on trial and crucified by the Romans.

He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. (Isaiah 53:3)

And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, and of the chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. (Mark 8:31)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
Our Father has feelings. He feels rejected by those he created. He understands how it feels to be rejected.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan