The dust of Babel still hangs in the air. Languages have fractured, nations have scattered, and the tower lies unfinished; a monument to human pride. But Genesis 12 opens with a new voice, not from the crowd but from heaven: “Now the Lord said to Abram...” (v. 1)

This is the pivot. From the ruins of rebellion, God calls one man; not to build upward, but to walk forward. Abraham’s journey begins not with bricks, but with belief. The scattering of Genesis 11 becomes the sending of Genesis 12.

God’s call is radical: leave your land, kindred, and father’s house. But it’s also rich with promise:

• Land — a place of divine presence.
• Name — not self-made, but God-given.
• Blessing — not just for Abraham, but for “all the families of the earth.”

This covenant is the seed of all biblical covenants. As Irenaeus taught, it is the beginning of the divine economy of salvation, where one man becomes the conduit of grace for many.
Cross References: Hebrews 11:8–10, Romans 4:20–21, Galatians 3:8–9

Abram departs in faith, leaving Haran with Sarai, Lot, and all their possessions. His journey takes him into Canaan, where he builds altars at Shechem and Bethel. These altars are more than piles of stone; they are markers of worship, reminders that God’s presence defines the land.

In Canaanite culture, altars were tied to fertility rites and local deities. Abram’s altars subvert this practice: they are dedicated to Yahweh alone. Each altar becomes a testimony that Abram’s journey is not about conquest, but covenant.

Origen interpreted Abram’s altars as symbols of the soul’s devotion, marking stages of spiritual pilgrimage. Each altar was a step deeper into faith, a reminder that worship must accompany obedience.

Faith is quickly tested. A famine drives Abram to Egypt, where fear leads him to deception: he presents Sarai as his sister. Pharaoh takes her into his house, but God intervenes, afflicting Pharaoh’s household until Sarai is restored.

Abram’s failure is striking. The man of faith falters, yet God’s promise remains intact. The covenant rests not on Abram’s perfection, but on God’s faithfulness.

Augustine reflected that Abram’s weakness shows salvation depends on grace, not human merit. Even the father of faith needed divine rescue. Ambrose noted that God’s protection of Sarai foreshadows His preservation of the covenant line, ensuring that the promise cannot be broken by human error.

Abraham’s story points forward:

• He leaves his father’s house → Christ leaves heaven.
• He becomes a blessing to many → Christ becomes salvation for all nations.
• He builds altars → Christ offers Himself on the Cross, the ultimate altar.

Cyril of Alexandria taught that just as Abraham’s obedience brought blessing to the nations, so Christ’s obedience brings eternal life. Augustine saw Abraham’s journey as the beginning of the City of God, fulfilled in Christ’s kingdom.

Abraham’s story isn’t just ancient history; it’s a mirror. He left behind security for promise. He built altars in unfamiliar places. He stumbled in Egypt, yet God’s grace carried him forward.

• When I read this, I think about how often I cling to comfort instead of stepping into God’s call.
• Abraham’s altars challenge me: where am I marking my journey with worship, not just achievement?
• His failure in Egypt reminds me that God’s covenant doesn’t collapse when I falter — His faithfulness holds.

At Babel, humanity sought to “make a name” for itself. In Genesis 12, God promises to make Abraham’s name great. Matthew 24 warns of false christs who will exalt their own names, but true greatness comes only from God’s covenant promise. Just as Abraham was called to trust God’s word over human ambition, we are called to discern truth in a world full of noise and deception.

Genesis 12 is not just Abraham’s beginning; it’s ours. His journey of faith becomes the pattern for ours: called out, tested, sustained by grace, and destined to bless the world. And as Matthew 24 reminds us, true greatness is not in the names we make, but in the Name we trust.

It is just rain

I went to California last week for work, when I woke up in the morning it was pouring rain.
My heart said I don’t want to do this, I don’t want to be in the rain.
But I knew it was going to be ok when the Word filled my heart to make this dark, cold, raining day better by the moment.
My heart said, this is not “the early or the latter rain,” it was just rain.
The Lord reminded me that the “rain falls on the just and the unjust,” so it is just rain.
When I got to the job site, I saw that the worksite was sheltered and dry.
Thank you, Lord, Ps 94:22 “But the Lord is my defense; and my God is the rock of my refuge.”
He is Jehovah Jireh, my provider.
After a short time of work, it was time to drive home in the rain.
As I drove through the dark cloud day, I was reminded again “It is just rain,” when I looked up and saw through the clouds a window to the blue sky behind the clouds.
Malachi 3:10 reminds me, “Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house, And try Me now in this,” Says the Lord of hosts,  
“If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it.”
My God comforts the poor and the needy.
I need this.
Isaiah 45:22
“Look to Me, and be saved,
All you ends of the earth!
For I am God, and there is no other."
It was just rain, but it reminded me of the goodness of my God, our God.
God Bless.
Because of Jesus,
Jerry

This allegorical narrative reimagines Psalm 27 as a spiritual journey. Each scene reflects a verse or theme from the Psalm, inviting readers to walk alongside Lightseeker as he moves from fear to faith.

The sky groaned above the crumbling walls of the Fortress of Fear. Inside, Lightseeker sat trembling, haunted by whispers from Fearshade, a shadowy figure who fed him dread. Outside the gates, evildoers prowled, their eyes hollow with hunger, their hands clawing at the stone. They came to devour, to consume, to tear down what remained.

But as Lightseeker clutched the lantern of truth, a voice pierced the gloom: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1).

Suddenly, the ground beneath the attackers cracked. They stumbled, recoiled, and fell—not by sword, but by the presence of the King.

“When evildoers assail me to eat up my flesh, my adversaries and foes,
it is they who stumble and fall” (Psalm 27:2).

The lantern flickered brighter, lit not by fire, but by truth.

Lightseeker stepped beyond the fortress into a valley thick with fog. Around him crept Pride, Despair, and Envy; enemies not of flesh, but of soul. Yet Confidence, a gift pressed into his hand by the King himself, walked beside him, bearing a shield etched with the words: “Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war arise against me, yet I will be confident.” (Psalm 27:3)

Each step forward was a defiance of darkness.

The valley gave way to a narrow path winding toward a distant Temple bathed in golden light. Beauty joined him, asking gently, “What do you seek?”

Lightseeker replied: “One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple.” (Psalm 27:4)

Distractions lined the road—applause, comfort, gold—but he kept his eyes on the light.

A storm broke. Thunder roared. Lightseeker was led to a hidden pavilion carved into the rock. There, he was lifted above the flood, sheltered and secure. He sang with trembling joy: “For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will lift me high upon a rock” (Psalm 27:5). “I will offer in his tent sacrifices with shouts of joy; I will sing and make melody to the Lord” (Psalm 27:6).

The storm passed, but the King seemed distant. Lightseeker cried out: “Hear, O Lord, when I cry aloud; be gracious to me and answer me! You have said, ‘Seek my face.’
My heart says to you, ‘Your face, Lord, do I seek’” (Psalm 27:7–8).

False Witnesses crept near, twisting truth. Confidence whispered, “Seek His face.”
The silence was not absence; it was invitation.

Lightseeker wandered beyond the field of silence, heart aching with uncertainty. The King had once felt near; now, His presence seemed veiled. Lightseeker cried out: “Hide not your face from me. Turn not your servant away in anger, O you who have been my help. Cast me not off; forsake me not, O God of my salvation” (Psalm 27:9)!

He stumbled, remembering the warmth of the pavilion, the voice of Confidence, the beauty of the Temple. But now, even family had turned away. “For my father and my mother have forsaken me, but the Lord will take me in” (Psalm 27:10).

False Witnesses returned; louder, more cunning. They twisted truth, laid traps, and whispered lies. Lightseeker knelt and prayed: “Teach me your way, O Lord, and lead me on a level path because of my enemies. Give me not up to the will of my adversaries; for false witnesses have risen against me, and they breathe out violence” (Psalm 27:11–12).

A path appeared; narrow, but level. It led toward the Waiting Gate. Lightseeker rose, steadied by grace, and walked on.

At last, Lightseeker stood before the Temple Gate. The sun rose behind him, casting long shadows across the path he had walked. The foes who once encamped against him had vanished; Pride silenced, Despair scattered, Envy broken. Fearshade no longer whispered. Even the false witnesses had faded into the mist.

He waited, lantern in hand, heart steady. “I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:13–14)!

And so he waited, not in despair, but in eternal hope.

The Lightseeker’s Journey is a narrative allegory of Psalm 27, portraying the soul’s pilgrimage from fear to confident trust in God. Each scene corresponds to a verse or theme from the Psalm, using symbolic characters and landscapes to make its truths accessible to a modern audience.

This interpretation reflects a biblical worldview by:

• Affirming God as light, salvation, and refuge, even in the face of overwhelming fear.
• Portraying spiritual warfare as both internal and external, with enemies like Pride, Despair, and False Witnesses representing the soul’s real adversaries.
• Emphasizing worship and longing for God’s presence as the heart’s true desire and source of strength.
• Highlighting faith not just in action, but in waiting, where courage is forged in stillness and trust.

The journey ends not with triumphalism, but with quiet victory; the foes silenced, the path made level, and Lightseeker standing at the Temple Gate in eternal hope. His waiting is not passive, but anchored in the goodness of the Lord, a hope that endures beyond the shadows.

Where are you in Lightseeker’s journey? Are you still in the Fortress of Fear, or walking the Path of One Thing? Have you found the Hidden Pavilion, or are you waiting at the Gate? What does it mean to “wait for the Lord” in your own life, not with passivity, but with courage, worship, and eternal hope?

Reference:
Pinto, B. (2025, November 2). The light seeker’s journey: A narrative allegory inspired by Psalm 27 (English Standard Version Bible) [Student Paper]. Colorado Christian University, BIB-322A-25001-FA25 – Songs of the Faith-Psalms (ON), Dr. Thomas Varney.
 

The floodwaters have receded. The rainbow still arcs across the sky. Humanity has a fresh start, yet within two chapters, the old pattern returns. Genesis 11:1–9 tells the story of a people united not in worship, but in pride. “Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the heavens, and let us make a name for ourselves…” (English Standard Version Bible, v. 4).

What begins as architectural ambition ends in divine intervention. The Tower of Babel is not just a failed construction project; it’s a mirror of the human heart, and a warning for the generation Jesus describes in Matthew 24.

The text is strikingly concise, yet loaded with irony:

• One language, one speech (v. 1) — a gift of post-flood harmony.
• “Let us make bricks… let us build” (vv. 3–4) — human initiative replacing divine command.
• “Lest we be scattered” (v. 4) — direct defiance of God’s earlier mandate: “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth” (Gen. 9:1).

Augustine saw the Tower of Babel as humanity’s attempt to ascend to heaven by its own strength—only for God to descend in judgment and scatter them (Augustine, ca. 426/2008, Book 16, Chapter 4). The tower is not about height; it’s about autonomy.

Ancient ziggurats, like the Etemenanki in Babylon, were real structures with religious and political purpose. Their stairways symbolized ascent to the gods. Archaeologists have uncovered baked bricks and bitumen mortar matching Genesis 11:3. But the biblical account subverts the pagan narrative:

• In Mesopotamian myth, humans serve the gods by building temples.
• In Genesis, humans build for themselves, and God comes down not to be served, but to judge.

Calvin observed that the builders sought to ascend to heaven by their own effort, only for God to descend and frustrate their plan (Calvin, 1554/1847, pp. 324-326).

The tower becomes a monument to self-salvation; a theme that echoes through history and into the apocalyptic deception of the last days (2 Thess 2:4; Rev 13).

Genesis 11:7 is startling: “Come, let us go down and there confuse their language...” The plural echoes Genesis 1:26 (“Let us make man…”). Early Jewish and Christian interpreters saw Trinitarian hints here, but even without that, the phrase reveals active divine engagement. God is not distant. He inspects (v. 5), He speaks, He acts.

Cyril of Jerusalem wrote: “As in the days of Noah, God walked among men. At Babel, He walked among their bricks—and found no faith” (Cyril of Jerusalem, ca. 350/2004, Catechetical Lecture 15, para. 23-25, para. 23–25, as paraphrased).

The confusion of languages is not petty retaliation. It’s redemptive restraint.

• It enforces the cultural mandate (fill the earth).
• It curbs collective tyranny, one language, one rebellious will, one global empire.
• It prepares the stage for Abraham; a man from one scattered family, called to bless all families (Gen 12:3).

Origen saw the scattering as a type of the Gospel noting just as one language became many, so one Christ would speak through many tongues (Origen, ca. 248/1996, Homily on Luke 18, para. 5). The division at Babel sets the stage for the reunion at Pentecost (Acts 2).

Jesus doesn’t mention Babel directly, but the parallels are striking:

• Global ambition: The Antichrist will unify nations under a false name (Rev 13:7).
• Signs in the heavens: The tower reached for the sky; false christs will perform “great signs” (Matt 24:24).
• Sudden judgment: Just as the builders awoke to incomprehension, so the Son of Man comes “like a thief” (Matt 24:43).

The builders of Babel sought self-glory: “Let us make a name for ourselves” (Genesis 11:4). In contrast, God promised Abraham, “I will bless you and make your name great” (Genesis 12:2), a promise fulfilled through Israel and ultimately in Christ (Philippians 2:9).

Babel is not the end of the story; it’s the pivot. From the ruins of human glory rises a single line: “Now the Lord said to Abram…” (Gen 12:1). The tower crumbles. The languages multiply. But God is already writing the next chapter; one man, one promise, one nation, one Savior.

As Matthew 24 warns of a world uniting in deception, remember: true unity is not built with bricks, but with faith. The next time you hear a call to “make a name,” ask whose name will last.

Augustine. (2008). The city of God (M. Dods, Trans.). In P. Schaff (Ed.), Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, First Series: Vol. 2 (Original work published ca. 426). Hendrickson Publishers. (Reprint of 1887 edition).

Calvin, J. (1847). Commentaries on the first book of Moses, called Genesis (Vol. 1) (J. King, Trans.). Calvin Translation Society. (Original work published 1554).

Chrysostom, J. (1986). Homilies on Genesis 18–45 (R. C. Hill, Trans.). In T. P. Halton (Ed.), The Fathers of the Church: Vol. 82 (pp. 1–234). Catholic University of America Press. (Original work preached ca. 388).

Cyril of Jerusalem. (2004). Catechetical lectures (E. H. Gifford, Trans.). In P. Schaff & H. Wace (Eds.), Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, Second Series: Vol. 7. Cyril of Jerusalem, Gregory Nazianzen (pp. 1–157). Christian Literature Publishing Co. (Original work published ca. 350) https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/310115.htm

Gregory of Nyssa. (1978). The life of Moses (A. J. Malherbe & E. Ferguson, Trans.). Paulist Press. (Original work composed ca. 380).

Irenaeus. (1989). Against heresies (A. Roberts & J. Donaldson, Trans.). In A. Roberts, J. Donaldson, & A. C. Coxe (Eds.), Ante-Nicene Fathers: Vol. 1 (pp. 315–567). Christian Literature Publishing Co. (Original work composed ca. 180) https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/0103.htm

Origen. (1996). Homilies on Luke (J. T. Lienhard, Trans.). In T. P. Halton (Ed.), The Fathers of the Church: Vol. 94 (pp. 1–132). Catholic University of America Press. (Original work published ca. 233–244).

Today in Jeremiah 35 the I learn that House of the Rechabites, heard from God.

Jeremiah takes the whole house of the Rechabites and sets bowls and cups of wine out for them, and tells them to drink.

This verse shows us the importance of a father in the household, their earthly father has placed a standard in these men, Jonadab commanded

“You shall drink no wine, you nor your sons, forever”
“You shall not build a house, sow seed plant a vineyard, nor have any of these; but all your days you shall dwell in tents, that you may live many days in the land where you are sojourners.”

“Thus we have obeyed the voice of Jonadab…”

This command, not to drink wine, could be a family wide vow of the Nazarite, to give their lives entirely to the service of the Almighty.
The point of living in a tent reminds the modern Christian, this world is not our home, we are sojourners here.

Then there is another two-fold perspective of the verse that can be seen; the first is the confirmation of the 5th commandment in Eph 6:1-3;

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise: “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.”

And the second, is the possibility of a downfall by the abuse of alcohol Eph 5:18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit,

These New Testament observations of Old Testament lessons teach us; “If you want to know what the New Testament says, you must know what the Old Testament said”.

God has set standards in our lives, love your enemies, do not hate, do not commit adultery, be not drunk with wine. Some written plainly in the Book, other inscribed on your heart. Standards just the same.

The Lord always weights the heart.

At this point in the story, God looks at these men, the sons of Rechab, who obey their earthly father and then looks at His Church, who do not obey their heavenly father.

God says to His people “Will you not receive instruction to obey My words” Jeremiah 35:13.

God then reminds us in Jeremiah 15:14

That the sons of Rechab listen to him, “obey their father’s commandment…” 

But, the people of the nation do not obey.

“But although I have spoken to you, rising early and speaking, you did not obey Me”

Today do we hear?

Today do we obey?

In the next verses, God gives us plain instructions of what we must do next;
“Turn now everyone from his evil way, amend your doings, and do not go after other gods to serve them, then you will dwell in the land which I have given you and your fathers…

Repentance is an Old Testament and a New Testament standard for relationship to the Kingdom of Heaven.

Look at Ezekiel 18:21-23 and 2 Corinthians 7:10.

Jeremiah turns once again to the Rechabites;
“Thus says the Lord”
“Because you have obeyed the commandment of Jonadab your father, and kept all his precepts and done according to all that he commended you,
Therefore thus says the Lord of host, the God of Israel: Jonadab the son of Rechab shall not lack a man to stand before Me forever.”

The end lesson is:
If you will obey the commandments of your Heavenly Father, and keep all of His precepts,
Then you stand before Him forever, AMEN!

Before the floodwaters rose, the world was already drowning in violence, corruption, and spiritual decay. Genesis 6 opens with a haunting diagnosis: “every intention of the thoughts of man’s heart was only evil continually” (v. 5). It’s a portrait of a creation unraveling, echoing the chaos that Matthew 24 warns will precede the return of Christ.

But amid the darkness, one man shines. Noah “found favor in the eyes of the Lord” (v. 8) He walked with God when no one else did. And through his obedience, the story of redemption continues.

Noah’s righteousness isn’t just moral, it’s relational. He walks with God, listens, obeys, and builds. In a generation marked by rebellion, he becomes a living contrast. The Church Fathers saw this clearly:

• John Chrysostom praised Noah’s moral clarity, calling him a model of perseverance.
• Ambrose viewed Noah’s favor as a sign of divine election—grace preceding judgment.

This theme of the righteous remnant runs throughout Scripture. Just as Noah is preserved through judgment, Matthew 24 speaks of the elect being gathered at the end. Noah’s obedience becomes the hinge of history.

Flood stories echo across ancient cultures. The Epic of Gilgamesh and Atrahasis recount divine floods sent to silence human noise or curb population. But Genesis tells a different story.

Here, the flood is not arbitrary, it’s a response to moral collapse. God grieves. He speaks. He chooses. He covenants. The biblical flood is not cyclical destruction; it’s a linear reset, preparing the way for redemption.

Kenneth Kitchen and other scholars note that while flood motifs are widespread, Genesis uniquely frames the event within a moral and covenantal structure. The ark is not escape; it’s preservation. It’s a vessel of mercy in a sea of judgment.

Typology invites us to see patterns that point forward. Noah becomes a prototype of Christ:

• He is righteous in a corrupt world.
• He obeys unto salvation.
• He builds a vessel of deliverance.

The ark, sealed with pitch and crafted of wood, becomes a symbol of refuge. The Church Fathers saw this clearly:

• Origen called the ark a type of the Church—sealed, protected, and carrying the faithful through judgment.
• Augustine saw Noah as a figure of Christ, whose obedience becomes the means of salvation.
• Cyril of Alexandria noted that just as the ark had one door, so Christ is the singular way to salvation.

“The flood came suddenly; so will the return of Christ. The question is not when, but whether we are ready.”

When the waters recede, God speaks again, not in wrath, but in promise. “I have set my bow in the cloud,” He says (Genesis 9:13, ESV). In ancient cultures, the bow was a weapon. In Genesis, God lays it down. Peace replaces judgment.
This covenant is not just with Noah, it’s with all creation. It’s unconditional. No matter how broken the world becomes, God will not destroy it by flood again.

• Ephrem the Syrian saw the rainbow as a divine pause; a visual reminder of restraint.
• Gregory the Great interpreted it as a symbol of faithfulness, pointing toward the New Covenant in Christ.

In Matthew 24, the signs in the heavens shift from beauty to warning. But the promise remains: redemption is coming.

Genesis 6–9 is not just a story of destruction; it’s a story of reset. Of mercy. Of preparation. It reminds us that God’s judgment is never without grace, and His grace is never without purpose. As we look toward the warnings of Matthew 24, may we live like Noah—faithful, vigilant, and ready.

Genesis 3 opens with a subtle yet seismic shift. The serpent enters the garden, not as a monstrous intruder, but as a cunning voice. The Hebrew word arum (crafty) plays against erom (naked) in verse 7, creating a literary irony: what seemed wise led to exposure. The serpent’s question, “Did God actually say…?” is not a direct contradiction but a distortion, planting doubt in Eve’s heart.

This moment marks the first theological deception. The serpent reframes God’s command, suggesting that divine boundaries are oppressive rather than protective. Eve, drawn by desire and distorted logic, eats. Adam follows. Their eyes are opened, but not to enlightenment. Instead, they awaken to shame.

Church Fathers on Deception

Irenaeus called the serpent the “first heretic,” twisting God’s word to lead humanity astray. Tertullian warned that all heresy begins with questioning divine truth—just as the serpent did.

Matthew 24 Connection
Jesus warns, “See that no one leads you astray” (v. 4). The deception in Eden echoes through history, culminating in the rise of false prophets and counterfeit gospels. The serpent’s whisper becomes a global shout.

The intimacy of Eden is shattered. God’s presence, once a source of joy, now provokes fear. Adam and Eve hide, physically and spiritually. Their stewardship collapses into blame-shifting: “The woman you gave me…” “The serpent deceived me…”

This breakdown mirrors the parable of the wicked servant in Matthew 24:48-49, who abuses his role during the master’s absence. Adam and Eve, entrusted with creation, fail to guard it. Their fall is not just personal, it’s cosmic.

In contrast to other ancient creation myths like the Enuma Elish, where humans are created as slaves to serve the gods, Genesis presents humanity as image-bearers and stewards. Their failure is a betrayal of divine trust, not just a breach of law.

Theological Reflection

Early Church Fathers like Irenaeus saw this moment as the birth of human autonomy, a grasping for godhood. Augustine would later call it the origin of concupiscence, the disordered desire that distorts human will.

God’s judgment is layered: the serpent is cursed, the woman faces pain, the man confronts toil. Yet within the curse lies a promise, the protoevangelium (Genesis 3:15), the first gospel. A future offspring will crush the serpent’s head, though He Himself will be wounded.

This verse becomes the seed of Messianic hope. Jewish tradition saw it as a veiled prophecy; Christian interpreters, from Justin Martyr to Tertullian, recognized it as pointing to Christ’s victory over Satan. Irenaeus saw Mary as the “new Eve,” whose obedience undoes Eve’s disobedience. Augustine interpreted the bruised heel as Christ’s crucifixion and the crushed head as Satan’s defeat.

The “offspring” motif becomes a thread through Scripture: Seth, Noah, Abraham, David, and ultimately Christ. This is the beginning of the Messianic line.

Matthew 24 Connection

Just as Genesis 3 introduces the need for redemption; Matthew 24 anticipates its fulfillment. The chaos of the end times is not the final word, redemption is coming. “The one who endures to the end will be saved” (v. 13).

Adam names his wife Eve, “mother of all living,” a gesture of hope amid judgment. God clothes them with garments of skin, a quiet act of mercy. Then comes exile. Eden is sealed, guarded by cherubim and a flaming sword.

This is not abandonment, it’s preservation. Humanity is barred from the tree of life, not out of cruelty, but to prevent eternal separation from God. Redemption must come first.

Church Fathers on Exile

Origen saw the garments of skin as symbolic of mortality and the need for spiritual rebirth. Gregory of Nyssa interpreted the exile as a necessary descent—a step toward redemption that would be reversed in Christ.

Matthew 24 Connection

The exile from Eden sets the stage for the long arc of redemption. Matthew 24 describes the culmination of that arc: the return of the Son of Man, the gathering of the elect, and the restoration of all things.

Want to explore more? Read the upcoming Part 2: The Flood and the Reset (Genesis 6–9). 

Sometimes You Have to Rock the Boat

Have you even been in a situation where you are faced with the choice
of staying quiet or speaking up? Maybe you’ve been asked to compromise
rather than hold your ground. Often we just lower our heads, shut up and
follow the crowd. We don’t want to cause trouble. We don’t want to rock the
boat. We want to just bump along following the status quo hoping everything
will turn out ok.

Well, guess what? Sometimes God wants us to rock the boat. Perhaps
He needs us to stir the pot a bit. He needs us to push back.

Push back the darkness. Push back the lethargy. Push back the covers
and wake up! Society has laid down the demarcation line of what is morally
acceptable and what is not. This line is continually being moved further and
further away from holiness. Push it back! God is calling men and women to
stand up and be counted. Be counted as His watchmen ; calling out a warning
to those who are off the path, those who are in darkness and don’t even know
it. If we do nothing, if we turn a blind eye to the rapid descent of our country
and the church in general, how can we say we love people? How can we say
we love God?

Ezekiel 44:23 And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy
and the profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the
clean.

Now, how can we do that when we can’t even put down our phone? How
can we do that when our life shows there is no difference? I have found in my
own walk, I am showing fuzzy lines. My mind is far too often consumed with
the frivolous and vain.

Without spending copious time in the WORD, I end up spending
copious time in the world. That, my friends, is a huge difference and the time
invested in either one shows in everything I do and say. Time is short and I
hear God pleading with me to adjust my thinking. Even today it was echoed in
the sermon.

Psalm 19:7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony
of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
Psalm 19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be
acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer.

Reading, meditating and doing the word of God… this is the answer.
God gives all of us 86,400 seconds a day. How much of that time do I spend
serving myself rather than Him. How much of that time do I spend intervening
or interceding for the weak and the lost? Do I even think about them? Do I
even see them? Or has my heart become so hardened and my mind become
so dull that I don’t even hear their heart’s cry any more?

I have been praying and God has opened up some scripture to me.

Numbers 16:41 And he stood between the dead and the living; and the
plague was stayed.

Aaron ran into the middle of a prideful, grumbling, self-righteous mass of
people to save them (pretty much from themselves) while thousands were
falling over dead from a plague. The plague was a judgment God had
deemed necessary, as they had continually balked and scoffed at His leading.
These people were God’s own chosen ones. He had rescued them and
blessed them, yet there they stood denying their own sin and questioning God
at every turn.

That sounds a bit like the country we are living in. America has now
decided for itself what is sin and what is not. As a country we have accepted
pushing God out of any government office, murdering the unborn, euthanizing
the weak, homosexuality, greed, lying, and a myriad of other sins. Should we
not be sending out a warning? Shouldn’t we, in light of what is considered
commonplace, stand out like a sore thumb in today’s society? Shouldn’t we be
pushing back?

Are we? Are we viewed as different? Are our stances showing up as
light and hope? Or are we too afraid of what folks might think or who we might
offend? Even if they do not listen, we must still speak and live the
truth…especially to those who call themselves the church.

Ezekiel 3:4-10 And he said unto me, son of man, go, get thee into the house
of Israel, and speak with my words unto them. For thou are not sent to a
people of strange speech and of a hard language, but to the house of Israel.
Not to many people of a strange speech and to a hard language, whose
words thou canst understand. Sure had I sent thee to them they would have
hearkened unto thee. But the house of Israel will not hearken unto thee; for
they will not hearken unto me: for all the house if Israel are impudent and
heard hearted. Behold I have made thy face strong against their faces, and
thy forehead strong against their foreheads. As an adamant harder than flint
have I made thy forehead: fear them not, neither be dismayed at their looks
though they be a rebellious house. Moreover he said unto me, Son of man, all
my words that I shall speak unto thee receive in thine heart, and hear with
thine ears.

This may be a hard task; speaking to those who won’t listen. It will truly
be a fruitless task if we don’t apply that final sentence. First I must take heed
to the words and begin to apply them to my own heart and life before I can
expect anyone to listen.

We can all agree that the time is short. All the signs show Christ is
coming soon, so what are you going to do with this time? This world is falling
apart. Our country in particular has taken a rapid succession of steps
backwards… away from it’s original calling. Those of us who are calling
ourselves the remnant need to be at the Father’s business now more than
ever.

Ezekiel 22:29-30 The people of the land have used oppression, and
exercised robbery, and have vexed the poor and the needy: yea they have
oppressed the stranger wrongfully. And I sought for a man among them, that
should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I
should not destroy it: but I found none.

Be a rescuer of the poor, a helper to the weak. Show mercy. Be a man
or woman who prays for our country. Call out sin in your own life. Put an end
to self-righteousness and hypocrisy. Live as you ought. May God strengthen
and help us all.

Submitted by Sharlon Worley October12, 2025

Day 2: The Separation of Waters (Genesis 1:6–8, ESV)
"And God said, ‘Let there be an expanse in the midst of the waters, and let it separate the waters from the waters.’ And God made the expanse and separated the waters that were under the expanse from the waters that were above the expanse. And it was so. And God called the expanse Heaven. And there was evening and there was morning, the second day."

God’s Mastery Over Creation: Establishing Order from Chaos

On the second day, God continues His work of ordering creation by separating the waters and creating the expanse, setting boundaries for the elements that will shape the world. This act reveals His sovereign authority, demonstrating that creation is not a product of randomness but of divine intention. Just as He governs the waters, He governs all of existence with precision and wisdom.

In nature, we see God’s intentionality reflected in the water cycle—evaporation, condensation, and precipitation sustaining life. This natural process reveals His foresight and provision, showing that even in something as foundational as water, God has prepared the conditions necessary for thriving creation.

The Theological Significance of Separation: Order, Holiness, and Redemption
The theme of separation in Genesis 1:6–8 carries deep theological meaning beyond the physical realm. Throughout Scripture, separation is a sign of God’s holiness, sovereignty, and redemptive plan. Just as He distinguishes the waters, He later calls His people to be set apart from sin and spiritual chaos.

• Sanctification Through Separation: Leviticus 20:26 states, “You shall be holy to me, for I the Lord am holy and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be mine.” Creation’s structure mirrors God's call for holiness—a life distinct from the disorder of sin, grounded in His purpose.
• Water as an Instrument of Redemption: 
  • The division of waters foreshadows moments where God uses water to bring deliverance and judgment:
  • The Red Sea (Exodus 14): God parts the waters to save Israel, establishing freedom through separation.
  • Noah’s Flood (Genesis 7–8): Water serves as both judgment and renewal, cleansing the earth for a restored creation.
  • Baptism (Romans 6:3–4): Water symbolizes death to sin and resurrection into new life—a personal and spiritual separation from the old self.

God’s Presence in the Heavens: A Glimpse of Majesty

By naming the expanse “Heaven,” God establishes a realm that represents His majesty. While He is not limited to a physical sky, this act reminds us of His transcendence—He is above creation, yet actively present within it.

Isaiah 66:1 reinforces this truth: “Thus says the Lord: ‘Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool.’” From the beginning, creation is designed to reflect God’s sovereignty and nearness, preparing humanity for relationship with Him.

Connection to Matthew 24: Separation and Spiritual Vigilance

The separation of waters in Genesis 1 parallels the themes of distinction and preparation found in Jesus’ teachings about the end times. In Matthew 24, Christ warns of deception and turmoil but calls His followers to remain steadfast. Just as God structured creation with separation, believers are called to discern truth and stand apart from a world of chaos.

Matthew 24:13 offers encouragement in this pursuit: “But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” The distinction between light and darkness, truth and deception, carries through the arc of Scripture, reinforcing God's call for vigilance and faithfulness.

Reflection and Application (Answer on your own or post in the comments below)

1. How does God’s separation of the waters reveal His mastery over creation and His ability to bring order?
2. In what ways does separation reflect holiness, both in creation and in our spiritual lives?
3. How does the theme of water in Scripture deepen our understanding of salvation?
4. How can we practice spiritual vigilance and stand firm in truth, as emphasized in Matthew 24?

 

Matthew 24:45–51 – Faithful Stewardship and the Consequences of Negligence
As Jesus continues to address His disciples in Matthew 24, He emphasizes the importance of faithful stewardship, and the eternal consequences tied to how believers live in anticipation of His return. The focus of verses 45–51 shifts to an analogy of servants entrusted with responsibilities, illustrating the stark contrast between those who honor their calling and those who disregard it.

This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the personal accountability each believer bears before God. It connects seamlessly with the previous verses, where readiness and vigilance were central themes, and expands on the practical expression of these qualities in everyday life. Through this vivid parable, Jesus underscores the blessings of faithfulness, the dangers of negligence, and the certainty of divine judgment.

The Faithful and Wise Servant – Verses 45–46
“Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.”

At the heart of Jesus’ teaching lies the example of the faithful and wise servant, entrusted with the responsibility of caring for his master's household. This servant exemplifies diligence, integrity, and a commitment to fulfilling their duties, even in the master's prolonged absence. By remaining faithful and focused, the servant demonstrates trustworthiness and readiness for the master's return.

Jesus highlights the reward for such faithfulness: the blessing of being found actively engaged in the work entrusted to them. This underscores a key principle of Christian living—that faithfulness in daily responsibilities reflects readiness for Christ's return. The faithful servant doesn’t merely await the master passively but invests time and effort in carrying out the work they’ve been assigned.

This passage challenges believers to examine their own stewardship. Are they faithfully serving in the roles and responsibilities God has given them? Whether in ministry, family, work, or community, the call to be a “faithful and wise servant” extends to all areas of life. The promise of blessing serves as both encouragement and assurance, reminding believers that their labor is not in vain and will be recognized by the Master.

The Role of Responsibility – Verse 47
“Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions.”

Faithfulness in small responsibilities leads to greater trust and reward—a principle that reflects both divine justice and grace. Jesus emphasizes this truth by promising that the faithful servant, found diligently fulfilling their duties, will be entrusted with even greater authority. This statement is not just a promise of material or positional gain but a profound affirmation of the servant’s character and commitment.

The phrase “set him over all his possessions” highlights the eternal significance of our earthly stewardship. Believers who remain steadfast and faithful in their roles demonstrate their readiness for the responsibilities of God’s kingdom. This principle echoes throughout Scripture, reminding us that how we handle the tasks and opportunities given to us now has eternal implications.

For modern believers, this verse serves as both encouragement and motivation. It assures them that their labor for God’s glory—whether seen or unseen, celebrated or unnoticed—will not be forgotten. At the same time, it challenges them to view their daily lives through the lens of stewardship, understanding that every action reflects their heart’s devotion to their Master.

The Wicked Servant – Verses 48–49
“But if that wicked servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed,’ and begins to beat his fellow servants and eats and drinks with drunkards.”

In sharp contrast to the faithful servant, Jesus describes the wicked servant—a person who, in the absence of their master, succumbs to arrogance and self-indulgence. The phrase “My master is delayed” reveals the servant’s presumptuous attitude, assuming they can exploit the situation without consequence. This mindset leads to actions that harm others and defile their role as a steward.

The behaviors of the wicked servant—mistreating fellow servants and indulging in excess—highlight the destructive consequences of neglecting accountability. This servant’s disregard for their master's return reflects deeper spiritual negligence, illustrating how complacency and selfishness can lead to moral failure. Instead of caring for those entrusted to their charge, the wicked servant’s choices undermine the household’s harmony and trust.

For believers, these verses serve as a warning against the dangers of apathy and selfishness in their walk of faith. They challenge us to live with the awareness that our actions, even in times of seeming delay or uncertainty, carry eternal significance. Jesus’ depiction of the wicked servant reminds us that neglecting our responsibilities and mistreating others will ultimately lead to judgment.

Judgment and Separation – Verses 50–51
“The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know and will cut him in pieces and put him with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

Jesus concludes this parable with a solemn portrayal of judgment. The master’s unexpected arrival underscores the certainty of accountability and the dangers of presuming upon the delay of divine justice. The wicked servant, who lived with arrogance and neglect, faces severe consequences: removal from the master’s household and eternal separation.

The imagery of “weeping and gnashing of teeth” echoes earlier warnings in the Gospel, depicting the anguish of those who face judgment. By likening the wicked servant’s fate to that of hypocrites, Jesus underscores the gravity of insincerity and unfaithfulness in a believer’s life. Hypocrisy—a life that outwardly professes faith while inwardly disregarding God’s commands—leads to spiritual ruin.

These verses serve as a sobering reminder of the eternal significance of our choices. Believers are called not only to live in vigilance but also to actively demonstrate their faith through obedience and service. The judgment described here affirms God’s justice, ensuring that negligence and arrogance do not go unaccounted for. At the same time, it challenges believers to reflect on their own lives and commitments, embracing the call to faithful stewardship.

Conclusion

The parable of the faithful and wicked servants is a poignant reminder of the profound responsibility entrusted to each believer. It reinforces the themes of stewardship, vigilance, and personal accountability that run throughout Matthew 24. Jesus’ words challenge us to live each day with a sense of purpose, faithfully fulfilling the tasks God has given us, while anticipating the certainty of His return.

The contrast between the faithful servant and the wicked servant emphasizes the eternal significance of our choices. Faithfulness is not only rewarded with greater responsibilities but also reflects a heart aligned with God’s will. On the other hand, neglect and hypocrisy lead to separation from God and the anguish of judgment. This dual outcome calls each believer to examine their life, ensuring that their actions reflect their faith and devotion.

Ultimately, this passage reminds us that Christ’s return is both a promise and a call to action. It is an invitation to live in hope and readiness, embracing our roles as stewards of God’s blessings. As we reflect on this teaching, may we commit to being faithful servants, rooted in love, trust, and obedience, as we eagerly await the day when our Master returns.

Matthew 24 Summary: A Call to Vigilance, Faithfulness, and Hope

Matthew 24 stands as one of Jesus’ most profound discourses, weaving together warnings, promises, and parables that challenge every believer to live with purpose and anticipation of His return. Across this chapter, Jesus lays out the signs, events, and responsibilities that define the end times, revealing the urgency of spiritual readiness and the eternal significance of our choices.

Prophetic Warnings and Signs (Verses 15–31)

The chapter begins with vivid depictions of tribulation and deception, including the Abomination of Desolation, the rise of false messiahs, and unparalleled global upheaval. These events not only warn of coming trials but also call believers to discern truth and resist distractions. Amid the chaos, Jesus affirms the hope of His glorious return—a cosmic, unmistakable event that will gather His faithful and establish His eternal kingdom.

Urgency and Preparedness (Verses 32–44)

Through the fig tree parable and analogies like the days of Noah and the thief in the night, Jesus highlights the unpredictable timing of His return. These lessons emphasize vigilance, urging believers to stay spiritually awake, anchored in prayer, truth, and faithful living. The certainty of His coming, paired with the unpredictability of its timing, challenges every follower of Christ to live each day as though He could return at any moment.

Faithful Stewardship and Accountability (Verses 45–51)

Jesus concludes with the parable of the faithful and wicked servants, underscoring the importance of fulfilling God’s call with integrity and diligence. The faithful servant, found actively engaged in their duties, is rewarded with greater responsibilities and eternal blessing. In contrast, the wicked servant faces severe judgment, a sobering reminder of the consequences of complacency and hypocrisy.

Unified Themes

Through these teachings, Matthew 24 unites several key themes: vigilance in the face of deception, hope amid tribulation, and the eternal value of faithfulness. Jesus’ words call every believer to examine their heart, embrace their role as stewards of God’s blessings, and trust in His promises. While the chapter warns of judgment, it also assures believers of divine protection and ultimate redemption.

Matthew 24 leaves its readers with an invitation to live purposefully and expectantly, grounded in the certainty of Christ’s return. It reminds us that history is moving toward a divinely orchestrated fulfillment, where faithfulness and trust will be eternally rewarded.
Let this chapter inspire us to share its hope and urgency with the world around us, living as faithful servants until the day our Lord returns in glory.

The Next Steps

As we conclude our journey through Matthew 24, we stand at a pivotal moment—not just in Scripture, but in the story of redemption itself. The warnings, promises, and parables we've explored point to a world in turmoil, yet one still held firmly in the hands of a sovereign God. In the coming lessons, we’ll step back to trace the arc of this divine narrative—from the perfection of Creation to the brokenness that culminates in the chaos of Matthew 24. How did we get here? What forces, choices, and covenants shaped this unfolding drama? Join us as we uncover the roots of rebellion, the rise of redemption, and the relentless grace that threads through it all. The story is far from over—and its Author is still writing.

Learning from the Fig Tree 

Jesus begins with the parable of the fig tree, urging His followers to learn its lesson. Just as the tender branches and new leaves of a fig tree signal the approach of summer, the fulfillment of prophetic signs indicates the nearness of Christ’s return. This analogy reminds believers that spiritual discernment is key—God's plans are revealed in ways that are observable and understandable for those paying attention. This parable is an invitation to readiness, anchoring trust in the certainty of His promises.

The Nearness of His Coming 

In verse 33, Jesus declares, "When you see all these things, you know that He is near, at the very gates." This phrase emphasizes the proximity of His return once the foretold events come to pass. It reflects the urgency with which believers should live—prepared for His arrival and unwavering in hope, knowing that the timeline is set according to God’s sovereign will.

Understanding “This Generation”
Verse 34— “Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place”—has generated varied interpretations. These include:

• Contemporary Audience: Jesus may have been referring to His immediate listeners, foretelling events like the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 as initial fulfillments of His prophecy.
• Symbolic of the Last Days: Alternatively, "this generation" could refer to all those living in the "last days," spanning the era from Jesus' ascension until His second coming. This interpretation suggests that humanity has been living in the tension of Christ's imminent return since the Church Age began.
• Specific End-Time Witnesses: It could signify the generation witnessing the culmination of end-time events, highlighting the rapid unfolding of God's prophetic plan during that time.
• By emphasizing "this generation," Jesus reassures believers that His prophecies are trustworthy and will unfold precisely as He has declared, whether through near or distant fulfillment.

The Eternal Nature of Christ’s Words 

In verse 35, Jesus offers an incredible promise: "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away." This statement underscores the permanence of Christ’s teaching. While cosmic upheaval and the passing of the physical universe are certain, His words remain unchanging and reliable, providing a foundation of truth and hope for all generations. It reassures believers that amid uncertainty and trials, His promises stand eternal.

A Call to Readiness and Endurance 

Matthew 24:32-35 serves as both a prophetic revelation and a practical call to action. The fig tree lesson urges discernment, reminding believers to recognize the signs of Christ’s coming with confidence. The varied interpretations of "this generation" highlight God's timeless faithfulness, spanning across history and into eternity. Above all, Jesus' assurance that His words will never pass away underscores the enduring hope and trust we can place in Him.

Whether viewed through the lens of immediate prophecy or the ongoing reality of the "last days," these verses challenge believers to live with spiritual vigilance and unwavering faith, anchored in the eternal promises of God.

Matthew 24:36–44 – Urgency, Preparedness, and the Call to Watchfulness

As Jesus continues His prophetic discourse in Matthew 24, He shifts focus to highlight the unpredictability of His return and the personal responsibility of each believer to remain vigilant. In verses 36–44, He delivers a powerful warning against complacency, encouraging His followers to live with readiness and hope, even as the exact timing of His coming remains unknown.

The Unknown Timing and the Sovereignty of God—Verse 36
“But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.”

With this striking statement, Jesus underscores the sovereignty of God in withholding the timing of His return. Even the angels, who serve as heavenly messengers, and the Son Himself are excluded from this knowledge, emphasizing that the culmination of history rests entirely within God’s perfect plan.

The absence of a known timeline is intentional—it removes the possibility of procrastination or apathy, calling believers to live each day as though Christ’s return could happen at any moment. The certainty of His coming, paired with the uncertainty of its timing, creates a tension that motivates vigilance and trust. This truth ties back to earlier warnings against deception, reminding believers to stay anchored in truth and resist distractions that might dull their spiritual awareness.

The Days of Noah: A Warning Against Complacency—Verse 37-39
“For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and they were unaware until the flood came and swept them all away, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.”

Jesus compares the days leading up to His return to the time of Noah—a period characterized by ignorance and indifference toward impending judgment. In Noah’s time, people went about their lives— "eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage”—oblivious to the catastrophic flood about to sweep them away. Their complacency and dismissal of Noah’s warnings serve as a cautionary tale for today’s believers.

Just as the flood came suddenly, catching the world off guard, so too will Christ’s return arrive unexpectedly. This serves as both a warning and a call to action: avoid spiritual complacency and remain prepared for the momentous event that will redefine history. The imagery of Noah’s family entering the ark serves as a foreshadowing of the rapture, where the faithful will be spared from judgment. It offers both hope for believers—assuring them of God’s plan for their redemption—and a sobering reminder that many will be left behind due to unbelief or spiritual neglect.

The Separation: One Taken, One Left—Verses 40-41
“Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and one left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and one left.”

Jesus paints a vivid picture of separation, underscoring the personal nature of salvation and accountability. At the moment of His coming, individuals working side by side will face dramatically different outcomes—one taken to be with Christ, the other left behind.

This imagery ties directly to the theme of personal responsibility. Salvation is not a matter of group identity or proximity to the faithful but hinges on one’s individual response to the gospel. Jesus’ words encourage believers to examine their own hearts and ensure their readiness, as spiritual preparedness is a responsibility that no one else can fulfill on their behalf.

The separation also connects to earlier themes in Matthew 24, particularly the tribulation and triumph described in verses 15–31. Readiness is not only for the rapture but also for perseverance through challenges leading up to Christ’s return. It reassures believers of ultimate victory, even as trials intensify.

The Call to Stay Awake and Be Ready—Verses 42-43
“But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into.”

Jesus delivers a direct command to His followers, urging them to remain vigilant. He reinforces this call with the analogy of a thief breaking into a house—if the homeowner knew when the thief was coming, he would remain alert and ready. In the same way, believers are called to stay spiritually awake, knowing that the timing of Christ’s return will catch many off guard.

Staying awake involves daily practices that cultivate spiritual readiness. Prayer, Bible study, fellowship, and an active pursuit of holiness help believers maintain vigilance and avoid the complacency that Jesus warns against. The thief analogy is not meant to inspire fear but to highlight the urgency of living with constant anticipation of Christ’s return.

This call to readiness ties back to earlier warnings about deception. A watchful heart guards against false messiahs and manipulative signs (v. 23–26), standing firm in truth amid uncertainty. Readiness is not about predicting dates or unraveling mysteries but about living faithfully, assured in the hope and promises of God.

A Call to Readiness and Trust—Verse 44
“Therefore, you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

Jesus concludes this section with a poignant reminder. His words challenge every believer to examine their own spiritual readiness—are they living in a way that demonstrates anticipation of His return, or have worldly concerns distracted them from their eternal hope?

Conclusion

This passage serves as both reassurance and a challenge. The vivid imagery of Noah’s time, the separation of individuals, and the analogy of a thief in the night underscore the necessity of personal readiness and vigilance. Salvation is deeply personal; each individual must take responsibility for their faith, ensuring they are prepared to meet the Lord.

At the same time, the broader themes of Matthew 24 call believers to remain faithful amid deception and tribulation. The unpredictable timing of Christ’s return is not meant to provoke fear but to inspire hope and purpose. It reminds us to align our lives with God’s eternal promises and to reject distractions that might dull our spiritual awareness.

As we reflect on this passage, let it motivate us to live each day with joy and purpose, knowing that Christ’s return is both certain and transformative. Let it compel us to share the hope of His coming with those around us—friends, family, and others who may not yet know the truth. Above all, may we rest in the knowledge that God’s timing is perfect, His promises are unchanging, and His return will bring eternal redemption and restoration to His faithful.

Understanding Matthew 24:15-31: A Prophetic Study

The Significance of Matthew 24:15-31 (ESV)

Throughout history, believers have sought to discern the signs of prophetic fulfillment, looking to Scripture for insight into the future. In Matthew 24, Jesus delivers a powerful discourse on end-times events, warning of deception, tribulation, and His eventual return in glory. Among His most urgent warnings, Matthew 24:15-31 signals a defining moment in prophecy—the abomination of desolation, the call to flee, the Great Tribulation, and ultimately, the glorious return of the Son of Man.

For His Jewish audience, this prophecy carried immense historical weight. They were familiar with Daniel’s writings, which foretold a catastrophic desecration of the holy place (Daniel 9:27, 11:31, 12:11). Jesus’ reference would have sparked concern and anticipation, drawing connections to past tragedies like the destruction of the First Temple by Babylon and the desecration of the Second Temple by Antiochus IV Epiphanes in 167 B.C.. But His words extended far beyond historical events—they pointed to future prophetic fulfillment, warning of a coming deception that would alter the course of history and trigger divine judgment.

Understanding the dual significance of Jesus’ warning—both in its historical echoes and future implications—provides a framework for grasping the urgency of His message. What follows is a moment-by-moment breakdown of His prophecy in Matthew 24:15-31, linking His words to Jewish history, prophetic scripture, and the unfolding end-times timeline.

Matthew 24:15-22 (ESV) – The Abomination, Urgency to Flee, and Great Tribulation
“So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let the one who is on the housetop not go down to take what is in his house, and let the one who is in the field not turn back to take his cloak. And alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! Pray that your flight may not be in winter or on a Sabbath. For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be. And if those days had not been cut short, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short."

The Warning of Desecration and Urgency to Flee

Jesus foretells a defining moment in prophetic history—the Abomination of Desolation, a direct reference to Daniel’s prophecy (Daniel 9:27, 11:31, 12:11). This act of sacrilege will desecrate the holy place, marking a turning point within the Tribulation. Historically, the Jewish people would have understood this imagery, recalling past Temple desecrations, including Antiochus IV Epiphanes' sacrilege in 167 B.C.. Jesus affirms that this event will not be merely historical—it will have future fulfillment, where the Antichrist will desecrate a future Third Temple (2 Thessalonians 2:4; Revelation 13:14-15).

In response, Jesus calls for immediate flight for those in Judea, signaling the severity and urgency of the moment. Unlike previous invasions where some fought back, this time survival will depend on swift action. The warning not to turn back for possessions conveys the desperation and danger of the situation. Pregnant women and nursing mothers are mentioned specifically, emphasizing the physical hardships of fleeing while reinforcing the burden this period will place on all people.

Jesus further warns that conditions may exacerbate the difficulty of escape—winter rains could flood roads, and Jewish Sabbath travel restrictions could hinder those attempting to flee. This foreshadows both historical fulfillment (such as the siege of Jerusalem in 70 A.D.) and future persecution during the Great Tribulation (Daniel 12:1, Revelation 12:13-16, Zechariah 14:5).

Unprecedented Tribulation and Divine Intervention

Jesus declares that the coming tribulation will surpass all previous suffering. Though Judea had experienced captivity in Babylon, slavery in Egypt, and Roman persecution, the Great Tribulation will bring an entirely different level of global distress. This prophecy partially mirrored the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D., yet its final fulfillment will occur during the latter half of the Tribulation, when the Antichrist exerts worldwide control (Revelation 13:5-7).

Despite the severity of judgment, Jesus offers a glimpse of hope—God will cut short these days for the sake of His elect. This raises theological discussions, with some believing this refers to a mid-Tribulation Rapture, where God removes His people before the worst judgments unfold (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Revelation 7:9-14). Regardless of timing, the message is clear: God remains sovereign, ensuring the preservation of His people amid chaos.

Urgency, Readiness, and Divine Protection

Matthew 24:15-22 warns not just of disaster, but of the necessity for discernment and trust. Jesus calls believers to remain vigilant, prepared, and spiritually discerning, trusting in God’s mercy and intervention even as prophecy unfolds.

Matthew 24:23-26 (ESV) – The Rise of False Messiahs and Prophets
"Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you beforehand. So, if they say to you, ‘Look, he is in the wilderness,’ do not go out. If they say, ‘Look, he is in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it."

A Warning Against Deception and Supernatural Signs

As the Great Tribulation unfolds, deception will intensify, leading many astray through false messiahs and prophets who perform counterfeit signs and wonders. This level of manipulation aligns with Paul’s warning in 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10, where the man of lawlessness—the Antichrist—is said to deceive through false miracles, orchestrated by Satan himself. Jesus cautions that even the elect—those steadfast in their faith—could be deceived, highlighting the unprecedented nature of end-time deception.

This warning was not unfamiliar to His Jewish audience. History had seen many false deliverers, particularly during times of oppression. One example is Simon bar Kokhba (132 A.D.), a revolutionary who claimed messianic status, leading a rebellion that ended in devastating loss for the Jewish people. Yet, the deception Jesus speaks of in the end times will be far more extreme, reinforced by demonic influence and supernatural displays, as later described in Revelation 13:11-15, where the False Prophet calls fire from heaven and creates an image to be worshiped.

Rejecting Secret and Isolated Messianic Claims

Jesus shuts down any expectation that His return will be private or secret, emphasizing that His coming will be unmistakable. False messiahs and prophets will attempt to lure followers by claiming secret appearances—either hidden in the wilderness or concealed in inner rooms. Historically, many false leaders gathered followers in secrecy, hoping to build movements away from Roman detection. However, Jesus makes it clear—His return will not be subtle or confined to select individuals.

This prophecy corresponds with Daniel 11:36-39, where the Antichrist exalts himself above all gods, deceiving the nations with arrogance and deception. The ultimate deception in the last days will be a false global movement, manipulating the desperate and fearful into following counterfeit signs instead of standing firm in truth. Jesus' warning is reinforced by Revelation 1:7, declaring that when He returns, every eye will see Him—not in secret gatherings, but in global majesty and power.

Remaining Rooted in Truth

Matthew 24:23-26 serves as a direct call to believers—deception in the last days will be powerful, but discernment remains key. As history has shown, false messiahs have always appeared in times of crisis, but the deception in the Great Tribulation will be unparalleled, fueled by demonic influence and supernatural illusions. Jesus reassures His followers that His true return will be unmistakable, urging them to reject secrecy and false promises, and to remain firmly grounded in truth.

Matthew 24:27-28 (ESV) – The Unmistakable Return of Christ
"For as the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather."

A Global, Unmistakable Return

Jesus counters the false messianic claims discussed in the previous verses by affirming that His true return will be undeniable—visible like lightning flashing across the entire sky. Unlike those who falsely claim hidden appearances in secret locations, His second coming will be instantaneous, dramatic, and witnessed worldwide. This imagery aligns with Revelation 1:7, which declares that every eye will see Him, emphasizing that His return will be a cosmic event rather than a localized occurrence.

For His audience, lightning symbolized both divine power and sudden judgment, reflecting Old Testament themes where God manifested His presence through powerful displays. This corresponds with Daniel 7:13-14, where the Son of Man comes with the clouds, receiving eternal dominion over all nations. This moment is not gradual—it is decisive and final, marking the end of deception and the beginning of Christ’s reign.

A Sign of Judgment and the Gathering of Nations

Jesus’ reference to vultures gathering around a corpse may initially seem cryptic, but it is rich in biblical symbolism. Throughout Scripture, vultures often represent judgment, signifying the aftermath of divine justice. This imagery parallels Ezekiel 39:17-20, where the birds feast on the remains of defeated armies after God’s victory. Similarly, in Revelation 19:17-18, the great supper of God invites birds to consume those slain in battle, reinforcing the idea that Christ’s return will also bring judgment upon the rebellious.

At the same time, this imagery also suggests the gathering of nations. Just as vultures instinctively flock to where the fallen are, so too will the nations converge at the moment of Christ’s return—some in worship and others in mourning (Zechariah 12:10). This signals the final separation between the faithful and the condemned, leading into the next prophetic fulfillment.

A Call to Readiness

Jesus assures believers that His coming will be unmistakable, not hidden or gradual, but visible to all. His return will bring both redemption for the faithful and judgment upon the rebellious, marking the transition into the fullness of His kingdom. This passage serves as a reminder to remain vigilant, rejecting false claims and standing firm in anticipation of His true return.

Matthew 24:29-31 – Cosmic Signs and the Gathering of the Elect
"Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other."

Celestial Upheaval and the Arrival of the Son of Man

Following the Great Tribulation, cosmic disturbances will signal the transition into the final stage of prophetic fulfillment. Jesus describes dramatic celestial disruptions—the sun darkened, the moon failing to give light, and stars falling from heaven. This imagery echoes Old Testament prophecies of divine judgment, particularly in Isaiah 13:10 and Joel 2:31, which foretell heavenly signs preceding the Day of the Lord.

These disturbances correspond with Revelation 6:12-14, where the Sixth Seal judgment triggers a great earthquake, a darkened sun, and stars falling to the earth, underscoring that creation itself responds to divine intervention. The powers of the heavens being shaken further emphasize the cosmic disruption accompanying Christ’s return, marking a pivotal shift from worldly rule to divine authority.

Amid this celestial chaos, the sign of the Son of Man appears in heaven, marking His undeniable arrival. The reaction from the world will be mourning among all the tribes of the earth—a moment of both regret and recognition. The rebellious will grieve as they realize the truth they had denied, fulfilling Zechariah 12:10, which speaks of the nations looking upon "the one they have pierced" with sorrow. Meanwhile, believers will rejoice, recognizing that their redemption has arrived.

Jesus’ description in Matthew 24:30 closely parallels Daniel 7:13-14, where the Son of Man is seen coming with the clouds of heaven, receiving dominion and glory. This moment solidifies Christ’s authority, as He appears not as a suffering servant, but as the victorious King, fulfilling prophecies that had long anticipated His second coming.

The Final Gathering of the Elect

As Christ returns, He sends out His angels with a loud trumpet call, initiating the final gathering of the elect from all corners of the earth. This action aligns with Isaiah 27:13, which describes a great trumpet summoning the scattered people of Israel, symbolizing divine restoration and fulfillment.

Similarly, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 reinforces this moment, describing how the dead in Christ will rise first, followed by the living believers being caught up to meet Him. The prophetic trumpet call also mirrors Revelation 11:15, where the seventh trumpet announces that "the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ."
This final gathering signifies the completion of God's redemption, as believers are united from across the earth, fulfilling the promise that no faithful follower will be left behind.

The Glory and Promise of Christ’s Return

Matthew 24:29-31 brings Jesus’ prophecy to its climactic moment—celestial signs will precede His arrival, the world will recognize the truth, and the faithful will be gathered in fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. These verses serve both as a reassurance to believers and a warning to those who have rejected Him, affirming that His second coming will be public, transformative, and final.

Final Conclusion: The Urgency and Hope of Matthew 24:15-31 (ESV)

Matthew 24:15-31 presents both a sobering warning and a triumphant promise. Jesus outlines the stages of end-time prophecy—the Abomination of Desolation, the Great Tribulation, widespread deception, His public return, and the final gathering of the elect.
His message urges believers to remain spiritually vigilant, rejecting false claims and manipulative signs, standing firm as prophecy unfolds. Through celestial signs, divine intervention, and global revelation, His coming will leave no doubt—it will be a moment of redemption for believers and reckoning for the rebellious.

A Call to Readiness and Trust

Jesus' prophecy serves not just as a forewarning, but as a call to endurance. Believers must remain steadfast, discerning truth, and preparing their hearts for His return. His assurance that the elect will be gathered reinforces God’s faithfulness—that in the midst of global upheaval, His people will not be abandoned but restored in victory.

Ordered Steps

I have recently been with a family member who suffers from anxiety attacks.

The fear I could see in their posture and at times on their face was very real.
They very bravely took an airplane to join us, they very bravely endured crowds to be with us, strangers are a big deal to them, but they bravely walk alongside us every step of the way.

I watched as prayer gave them courage to do what they would normally avoid. We prayed for them silently when they didn’t know it, we prayed openly with them when they needed it.

I am not sure what lesson The Father has for this loved one, I cannot see it yet.

Maybe when anxiety leaves their life, when they learn to believe He will do what He said He will do, that will be the lesson.

Maybe this is a lesson of dependence.

Maybe this is a lesson of deliverance.

Maybe this lesson is not for them alone, but there is something He is trying to show me.
This I do know, it has brought me to a place in His presence that I am seeking answers for my loved one and for myself.

These are His ordered steps, so that I may learn, learn to appreciate a need, a situation that I don't understand.

When I feel fear or anxiety I run to The Father, because He has told me, Perfect Love drive out ALL fear.

But this is not the only answer, and I find He is Rich and Abundant in His answers.

Here are some of the most appropriate:

Phillip 4:8-9
1 Thess 5:16
1 Peter 5:7
Isaiah 41:10
Isaiah 41:13
Isaiah 43:1-2
Psalm 34:17
Psalm 91:15
1 John 4:18

If you suffer from anxiety, look these scriptures up, read them, memorize them, use them.

This is your Heavenly Father speaking to you when you need Him the most.

If you suffer from anxiety, call us or come see us, we will pray with you and share with you what the Lord has given us at that time.

Because of Jesus,
Jerry

Today is Just One Piece

Jimmy, a redheaded eight year old, sits at the kitchen table. He had asked for a
jigsaw puzzle for his birthday and mom had obliged. Without looking at the top of the
box, Jimmy reaches into the box and pulls out a piece.

“Orange!” He wails, “ I hate orange! I’m not doing this puzzle if it's all orange!”
Before turning over another piece or even looking at the box he storms off to his room.

How silly we may think. Just because one piece of the puzzle was orange doesn't
mean the entire thing would be. Surely little Jimmy should have known that!
Have you ever thought that you and I do the same thing to God. He has an
entire puzzle He is working out in our life. Things aren't entirely complete yet. Maybe
this moment, or this day is an ‘orange” day. Maybe things aren't going exactly as you
had envisioned. Remember that today is just one piece of the puzzle. Before you are
tempted to throw in the towel or to storm off angry at God, take a pause. Wait for the
next piece of the puzzle to be put into place. Just keep in the game, keep moving
forward.

In Luke chapter eight we read the account of when Jesus and the disciples were
in the boat and a fierce storm arose. In verse 22 Jesus says,

“Let us go over unto the other side of the Lake”

Once the storm began to rage, the disciple went into panic. No matter how hard
the rowed, they realized water was still filling the boat. Jesus had peacefully fallen
asleep. He wasn't alarmed by the storm. He had said they were going to the other side.
He hadn't said, “ Lets get in the boat so we can sink and drown.”

Know that whatever storm you are facing today, He’s going to get you to the
other side. Know that not matter what your circumstances are looking like at this
moment, God still has more pieces of the puzzle He's getting ready to put into place.
Press on, keep moving, keep praying, keep yielding to Him. He only gives good.

Submitted by
Sharlon Worley
August 27, 2025

Part 6 in the Series: Creation to Matthew 24

Day 1: Creation of Light (Genesis 1:3–5, ESV)

And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.

God’s First Act of Creation: Light in the Darkness

Genesis 1:3 reveals the first recorded words of the Creator: “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” With this command, God speaks light into existence, dispelling the chaos and darkness that covered the earth. This act not only establishes the physical phenomenon of light but symbolizes God’s power to bring order and purpose into a void. His very presence is light, illuminating creation with intentionality and beauty.

The Contrast with Humanity's Stewardship

God’s creation of light—and His declaration that it is good—reminds us of the harmony and perfection of the world as He intended it. Yet, this stands in stark contrast to the state of the world today, shaped by humanity's choices and mismanagement. This reflection challenges us to consider how we have fallen short in stewarding the goodness entrusted to us and how we can realign ourselves with God’s design.

The Spiritual Light Revealed in Christ (John 1:1–5, ESV)

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
The creation of light not only brings physical order but also points forward to the spiritual light revealed in Jesus Christ. John 1:1–5 declares: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (ESV). This parallel reminds us of God's redemptive plan to overcome the spiritual chaos of sin through Christ, restoring the goodness of creation.

The Call to Shine as Lights (Matthew 5:14–16, ESV)

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus expands the concept of light by calling His followers to be "the light of the world." Like a city on a hill that cannot be hidden, believers are invited to reflect God’s light in their lives, illuminating the world with His truth, love, and hope. This passage connects back to Genesis 1, showing how God’s light is not only foundational to creation but also central to our calling as His image-bearers.

Reflection and Application (Answer on your own or post in the comments below)

1. What does the creation of light teach us about God’s power and ability to bring order from chaos?
2. How does Jesus as the "light of men" reveal the deeper spiritual reality of Genesis 1?
3. In what ways can we embody the call to be "the light of the world" in our daily lives?

Connection to Matthew 24

The themes of light and darkness in Genesis 1 serve as a foundation for understanding Jesus’ warnings in Matthew 24 about deception and tribulation. Just as light dispels darkness in the physical world, spiritual vigilance and truth overcome the chaos and confusion of the end times. This call to be spiritually awake echoes the message of Matthew 5:14–16, inviting believers to shine brightly in anticipation of Christ’s return.

Part 5 in the Series: Creation to Matthew 24

Introduction

The Bible begins with a breathtaking vision of perfection: a world spoken into existence by the sovereign Creator, where every detail reflects His glory, order, and purpose. Genesis 1 unveils this divine masterpiece, portraying creation as more than just a physical reality—it is a sacred space, a temple designed to reflect the majesty of the One who made it. In this original temple, the Garden of Eden, God places humanity as His image-bearers, the crowning touch of His creative work. Unlike the statues or symbols found in earthly temples, humanity itself is crafted in God's likeness, called to steward and reflect His character.
This study, titled From Eden to Eternity: A Biblical Journey, embarks on a profound exploration of Scripture, tracing the arc from the perfection of Genesis to the warnings, hope, and promises of Matthew 24. Along the way, we will uncover how humanity's fall disrupted the harmony of creation, leading to the brokenness we see today, and how God's redemptive plan offers restoration and ultimate fulfillment.
Genesis 1 serves as the foundation for this journey, inviting us to marvel at God's sovereignty, creative power, and eternal nature. As we progress through each day of creation, we will reflect on themes such as God's intentionality, the goodness of creation, and humanity's unique role as stewards of His temple. These themes will not only deepen our understanding of Genesis but also connect us to the overarching message of vigilance, faithfulness, and hope found in Matthew 24.

Opening Reflection: "In the Beginning, God..."

Genesis 1 begins with the powerful phrase, "In the beginning, God..."—a declaration that grounds everything in the sovereignty and eternality of the Creator. Unlike the created world, which requires a beginning, God stands outside of time, existing eternally and possessing the infinite wisdom to speak all things into existence. This truth invites us to marvel at His unmatched power and creativity.
As we reflect on this opening, we are reminded of the intricate complexities of life that testify to God's intentional design. Consider the giraffe: without the sponge at the base of its brain to regulate blood flow, lowering its head to drink water would lead to catastrophic consequences. Yet, in God's wisdom, He designed this unique creature with exactly what it needs to thrive. Such examples humble us, inspiring awe as we realize that the Creator’s knowledge and care extend to every detail of His work.
This moment of reflection calls us to pause and consider: What does this reveal about God's character? How does His eternal nature and intentional design shape our understanding of Him? In exploring Genesis 1, we begin to see the beauty, power, and purpose of a creation that reflects the glory of its Maker.

Today you will see that He has never left or forsaken you.
That He knows your name.
That He has called you to a Holy place, to a Rock, a Foundation where to place your bare feet.
Today you will see the windows of Heaven open.
Today you will find strength that is not yours, courage you did not know you had.
Today, Resurrected Life is yours to receive in Jesus Name.
Taste of the Lord, see that He is Good.

Looking up

Jerry and I spent a few days on the Oregon coast this last week. It was a trip we'd planned some time ago. We enjoy van camping because it allows us some liberty in where we park for the night. I usually like to park somewhere so when we throw open the doors in the morning we can see the ocean waves. Knowing we have a gorgeous view awaiting us in the morning brings a simple joy to my soul.

I imagine the folks who tucked away a few nights at church camp were the same - wanting to unzip their tents to a beautiful view. Being surrounded by nature and God’s family, it would not matter which way you pitched your tent, you could open it up to see God’s glory. Being in the family of God is so encouraging and strengthening.

I was reminded today, while Les was preaching about Abraham and about pitching tents. Abraham obeyed God’s call to remove himself from everything that was familiar. He left his home, most of his family and his family’s religion to go in search of what God had for him.  He left everything behind and stepped into the unknown. Abraham moved about as a nomad, pitching tents wherever the Lord led. His eyes were continually looking for that city built without hands. He never gave up.

In Genesis chapter thirteen there comes a split between Abram and Lot. The favor of the Lord had fallen on Abram and his herd as well as his servants had grown exponentially. Pretty soon the herdsmen began to argue over feeding grounds and watering holes. Abram decided the best thing was to allow for some space. He told Lot to choose.

“ Is not the whole land before thee?” he asked Lot. He then allowed Lot to choose where to go. Abram and his herds would move in a different direction. Lot looked up and saw the plains of Jordan which looked well watered and chose that spot. 


Abram dwelled in the land of Canaan, 
and Lot dwelled in the cities of the plain, 
and he pitched his tent toward Sodom.
Genesis 13:12

Lot made a huge error. He pitched his tent toward Sodom. He pitched his tent toward the temptation.  He woke up looking at that evil city every morning. He likely went to bed every evening hearing the raucous sounds of the city. Before you know it, Lot was sucked in. The next scripture that mentions Lot, Genesis 14:12, reveals that he is now living in Sodom. This is a warning to us today. Whatever we set before our eyes, whatever we think will benefit us in a worldly way, will likely consume us. Lot was looking for the best, the easiest,  the premier land. What he got instead was devastation.

Be careful which way you pitch your tent.

While Lot lifted up his eyes and looked for the easy path, Abraham simply obeyed God. In verse 13:14, God instructs Abraham to lift up his eyes and look around in every direction. God then makes an eternal promise to Abraham. God promises Abraham and his descendants all the land he can see. He did not promise him an easy path, a shortcut, or even an estimated time of arrival but Abraham was faithful and obedient.

Hebrews chapter 11 gives us a bit more insight as to where Abraham's eyes were fixed.

 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. 9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.11 Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.12 Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. 16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

Verse 13 is the real kicker! Read it again! Abraham’s promise was not manifested in his lifetime and yet he believed. He kept his eyes focused on knowing God. He pitched his tent, his life, his strength, his goals toward God. Keep your eyes fixed the same. 

A glorious morning awaits! Soon and very soon.



Submitted by Sharlon Worley

Appetites
 
Have you ever tasted the sweet southern delicacy of possum stew? Or maybe your taste is more towards Canada’s famous style of fries, poutine, where they smother the fries with cheese curds and gravy? How about a serving of the Scottish meal, haggis; a mixture of sheep organs, oatmeal, spices all tucked nicely into an ox intestine for cooking?
None of these dishes make my mouth water, but if you are a native to these regions of the world, they may appeal to you. When I was growing up, seeing my dad return from a successful elk hunt was a celebratory event. We all partook in eating floured and fried elk heart, something I still enjoy. It is easy to see that our appetites are affected by what we have trained our tongue to like. If Cheetos is our go-to snack, that's what we crave when our tummy rumbles. But if we've trained our tongue to enjoy fresh sweet apples instead, that is what we will grab for.
Our soul and Spirit are no different. Whatever we've exposed ourselves to is what we will crave. If we spend copious amounts of time doom-scrolling on our phone, then when we need a break from daily struggles, we will likely escape into the screen. Or perhaps a chilled glass of wine is what you've trained your soul to seek out. Maybe your struggle is with nicotine. It doesn't really matter what the acquired taste we have developed, unless it's the sweet savor of the Lord or time spent in his Word, our taste buds need a refinement--a regeneration.
There was a time when I really struggled to open the Bible on a regular basis. I didn't understand a lot of it, and so I would become frustrated and lay it down. Of course, when I laid the Bible down, I would pick up the remote or some other thing to attempt to satisfy my craving. It took me a long time before I was able to change my appetite. I told myself that I would read at least one chapter a day. It didn't always sink in, I didn't always receive a startling revelation, but kept at it. After a while, I began to crave my time spent in the Word and in prayer. I discovered that the days I neglected this very vital bread and water, events erupted in chaos and frustration.
I also found that those corrupt things of the world I had been partaking in, no longer seemed as appealing. Of course, the enemy still tries to dangle carrots and I have to stay on guard not to be caught in a snare. Someone once told me if I avoid the places where the enemy has hung snares before, I stand a better chance of not getting trapped. When I began to consciously retrain my spiritual appetite and move away from some of the places I frequented (physically or just in my mind) I found it so much easier to desire Him and His holiness.
Pastor George spoke today about catching the critters on his property in a live trap. He has caught the same skunk and raccoon over and over because those critters keep traveling the same path. Their appetites for the bait remains the same, too. But the red fox he caught once never returned. That fox knew better than to travel the same path that got him snared in the first place. The little red fox knew better than to be tempted by the bait again. According to Pastor, he must have told all of his family and friends too!
We need to learn the same. Too often we are satisfied with the rotten, putrefied food the enemy offers. It may give us a momentary thrill or dopamine burst, but in the end, it only delivers bondage and death. Meanwhile, the Lord has invited us to the King’s table to taste and be nourished by His perfect and holy food! This food brings power, healing, joy and life! It is delicious to the tongue and the spirit!
Once we begin to retrain our brain and our appetites, it's so important not to reminisce or romanticize your old ways, your old man. Too often, we want to mentally revisit a time in our life when we were fully entrenched in the world. This doesn’t honor God, nor does it give strength to our regenerated man. Turn completely from those old ways, old appetites, old lusts. You will be amazed at the goodness of God.

And they that are Christ’s
Have crucified the flesh
with the affections and lusts
Galatians 5:24
 
 
Submitted by Sharlon Worley