Malachi 3

Stewardship

The coming messenger was John the Baptist, followed by Jesus the Christ. Jesus started by telling them of their biggest sin, greed, not giving back to the church. "DO NOT ROB GOD"

In answer to the people's skepticism Malachi emphasizes the certainty of the Messiah's coming.

The day of His coming when He will purify and judge all of us. Believers are obligated to give, in order to support the work of the Lord at home and on the mission field.

The Hebrew word for "Tithe" (ma'ser) literally means a tenth part.

Malachi 3:10
Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall be room enough to receive it.

I have been blessed with so much in the passed months, you would not believe it if I told you, but I will find a way to give back to my Lord.

The blessings that accompany faithfulness in financial giving will come both in this life and in the hereafter and I don't want to miss the hereafter just for some petty thing in this world.

We are stewards of what God owns nothing more. God promises that if we practice good stewardship He will bless us greatly. But, if disobeyed, He will allow the devourer to destroy what we produce. Real men especially must remember that we do not own anything; we only manage God's resources.

So…like my mother once said "Why don't you be a real man and serve God".

Gene Wells

Malachi 2

The priests had also lost all fear of the Lord in accepting substandard sacrifices, which in turn jeopardized the life and peace of Israel, since they were appointed to administer the duties of the priesthood to meet God's requirements for sin and in applying the law as it related to sacrifices, feasts, and temple maintenance. Likewise, it is not much of a stretch to infer that the relaxation of standards in the typical Christian church today reflects their lack of fear for the Lord. Few Pastors today could meet the requirements of verse 6: speaking the word of truth, turning many from iniquity, and living a pure life walking with God.

The last part of the chapter deals with God's displeasure with the Jews' intermarriage with pagan women and the divorcing of their Jewish wives. Judah was specifically called out, but this was a direct consequence of the priests' lackadaisical attitude toward following the law, as well as the ignorance of their history (Samson, Ezra, Ahab, etc…), which clearly exposes the folly of being unequally yoked. But since they also chose to destroy what God brought together through divorce, they put their Godly seed at risk.

We know that he was also referring to Jesus coming out of the tribe of Judah, and the danger the intermarrying posed to his fleshly ancestry remaining untainted. But God was also dealing with the destruction sin was having on the Godly homes and their offspring.

These same attitudes towards marriage are reflected in the way most pastors will marry any two people regardless of their beliefs, lifestyle or motivations for getting married. Modern standards for marriage and remarriage are so low as to question whether certain churches even pose any to potential newlyweds. But in God's eyes in this chapter, they lead a nation down the road to ruin.

Paul Pixley

Malachi 1

Ye offer polluted bread upon mine altar; and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee? In that ye say, The table of the LORD is contemptible.  And if ye offer the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? and if ye offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? offer it now unto thy governor; will he be pleased with thee, or accept thy person? saith the LORD of hosts.

Let me say I am forever thankful that Jesus Christ became that perfect sacrifice that eliminated our need for animal sacrifice. I am not worthy of His blood, but I am thankful he was willing to die for me.

Although we may not offer animal sacrifices anymore, we can be guilty of doing the same thing that verses 7 and 8 are talking about here. How many times have we been guilty of giving an imperfect offering to the LORD? And, it's not always cheating the LORD of His money, but sometimes it is in cheating the LORD of his time by not praying or partaking of the Word. Or, perhaps it is cheating the LORD by not spending time with family and mentoring them in His ways. Sometimes, we cheat him by not allowing Him to use our talents for the reasons that he gave them to us.

I do not want to be found guilty of offering an imperfect sacrifice to the LORD and pray the LORD would guide me in balancing my life in making sure He gets the first fruits.

Thom Creel

Zechariah 14

Well, I have to say that when I realized what I had signed up for; I was not real excited.  This is prophecy and I am not a Bible scholar but then I read Zechariah 14 and some commentaries.  And I have to say, to my shame, that in spite of my attitude I found something that really spoke to me.  So I will try to put it in words and hope that others will be blessed also.
 
Zechariah 14 speaks of events surrounding the Lord's return but what spoke to me are verses 18 & 19.  I had to ask "What is the Feast of Tabernacles"?  Many on you probably know but I did not.  The Feast of Tabernacles is a feast of the harvest and I just began to try and imagine that final great feast celebrating the harvest of souls.  But I was awestruck when I realized that the Feast of Tabernacles was instituted thousands of years ago with a purpose.  It was not just something that God said "You have this celebration of the harvest because you need something to celebrate".  No, there was a reason, a purpose through the passage of time until that day when the final feast is celebrated.  There was great joy during the Feast of Tabernacles and I think the same will be true in the last one.  And then I was reminded that our God is the God of such order.  That thousands of years ago a celebration was put into place with a purpose and then will end with a purpose, just fillled me with awe.  I had to wonder why I worry about some things the way I do.  The God that orders events throughout the ages, that spoke our world into existance, that gave his life because He so loved His creation; can take care of me and order my life.  I want to try and encourage you men who are out of a job or in need of a better job, He knows!  He is in your tomorrow, your next week, your next year and He has everything in order.  Trust Him, He can handle it!
 
Douglas Dunn

Zechariah 13

When Paul speaks of the second coming of Jesus in I Thessalonians 4, he tells the church in vs 18 “Wherefore comfort one another with these words.” For the believer who has obeyed Jesus’ command in John 3:5, the return of the Lord is something of celebration and not fear.

 

The same joyous message is found in Zechariah 13. Verse 1 tells us “On that day a fountain will be opened to the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and impurity.”

 

Our faithfulness to God and obedience to His word, will not only attain His faithfulness, but also every fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians chapter 5. The longsuffering of God is our salvation and God is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

 

REAL Men, let’s cling to the celebration of verse 9 today—“And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God.”

 

Tim Jacobs

 

Zechariah 12

How many times have we wounded God? We obviously know we can not actually wound the Creator of the universe, but we can still hurt him emotionally. Yes... the All Mighty One has emotions and Yes, he feels pain when we choose not to obey or not to live this life according to his word. How many times have we taken him for granted. How many times have we pierced him with our words and our actions.

 

It seems very clear, as the father, he tries so hard to train us up in the way we should go. Just as many of you fathers have known the right path for your child, but while you long for that bond and that love, your child does not always make the right decisions and it hurts. All you want is the best for your child. All you want is for than young boy or girl to grow up and live a healthy and fruitful life. Unfortunately, children do not always look through the eyes of the father. We as children don't always see life through OUR FATHERS EYES.

 

Though we are still children and find ourselves daily falling short of perfection, (as were are all human) we see God still choosing to deal in the affairs of men. It was so beautiful to see the adverse emotion taken toward the enemy of the children of God as they were being threatened.  In an instant, such swift action to protect and defend his children, much like many of you would do for your child even today. It would not take much for many of you fathers to "come un-glued" if someone meant to bring harm to one of your children.

 

What a good father. What a loving father. How merciful and mighty is he. What a passage of love. That father that can discipline and lead, comfort and defend with the same hand... His hand of righteousness. This is a great example of the love of our father. Even in these last days the word says his chosen people will be persecuted, mocked, and even threatened... but we know what he has in store for any who appose him. Praise God! He is all Powerful and sure to take care of his children. I don't want to hurt him and I don't want to wound him anymore. God help us to see this world through your eyes so we can make the right choices and draw closer to you.   .................Remember Today Guys ...................... Gods Got Your Back!

 

Chase Potter

 

Zechariah 11

The passage opens with a beautiful and vivid poem.

 

Open your doors, O Lebanon,

  so that fire may devour your cedars!

Wail, O pine tree, for the cedar has fallen;

  the stately trees are ruined!

Wail, oaks of Bashan;

  the dense forest has been cut down!

Listen to the wail of the shepherds;

  their rich pastures are destroyed!

Listen to the roar of the lions;

  the lush thicket of the Jordan is ruined!

 

The ministry of Zechariah took place during the reign of the king Darius, the Great. He lived in an era after the exile of the Jews to Babylon from Jerusalem. Jerusalem had fallen to the Babylonians in 586 B.C. Zechariah was fortunate enough to experience the excitement of the return of the Jews to their homeland. Cyrus, the Great overtook the Babylonians in 539 B.C. and he allowed Israel to return home and rebuild their lives. According to history, this poem would have been written around the time of the return. The latter portion of verse 3 could be emblematic of Judah's return.

 

In verse 4, God gives Zechariah a tremendous responsibility. He tells Zechariah that he is to be shepherd to the returning children of Israel. He was charged with taking care of them spiritually. The children of Israel were very quick to return to their old ways and God was willing to let them. However, this defiance didn't go without retribution. God had a man. A REAL man. A man unafraid to tell Israel the err of their ways. We should thank God every day for the shepherd that God has so graciously given us.

 

It is later in the passage that God reveals to Zechariah, the corruption that has so subtly crept its way into Israelites. There were those shepherds that sought to lead for their own political and financial gain. The Lord was quick to point out these "wolves" as they are referred to later in Matthew 7 and Acts 20. The Lord always provided a watchman. Whether by a judge, a prophet, a preacher, or a pastor, He was, and is still, faithful to make sure that His own are looked after.

 

REAL men are called to be the shepherds of our homes. That means that we are to look out not for just the temporal things needed for survival in this life, but also the lasting needs necessary for the life to come. We are charged with imparting to a younger generation the statutes and principles that have so ably guided us to this point in our own lives. I'm not a father, but one day I will be. In that day, I pray that there will be REAL men of God that will stand true to their heritage and  reinforce these principles that I will strive to pass on to my own children.

 

Donley Gandee

Zechariah 10

We see in this chapter that though Israel had returned from exile, some were still petitioning false gods. False prophecy leads people into paths that go nowhere and which continue to be aimless, achieving no satisfactory objective.

 

We are fortunate to have great leadership that are watchmen on the wall for our souls and that seek the will of God daily for the direction of our church. We can always go to them for a word of direction and know that they will seek the face of God for his will for our individual lives.

 

If we as children of God will stay in the fold and follow God's word and the leadership of our pastors, great blessing is promised to us. Though things of this life try at times to distract us we must hold fast to the faith, and we will reap blessings upon our lives and the lives of our families.

 

Billy Potter

Zechariah 9

While I was reading this chapter, I think about reading the last chapter in a saga.  We know the end and it is great, we win, we live forever more.  The verse that really stood out to me was verse 16.

 

And the LORD their God shall save them in that day as the flock of his people: for they shall be as the stones of a crown, lifted up as an ensign upon his land. (v16)

 

Not just any stone, or pebble that is picked up would be worthy enough to be put in a crown, but it would be precious stones that would be displayed, and lifted upon high for all to see.

 

Men, we, and all our families are precious in the sight of God.  He came to this earth for each one of us.  Let's all give our best, to keep his commandments, and do whatever is pleasing in his sight, lift him up, worship, and live for him.

 

The wise King Solomon said the conclusion of the whole matter was to fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

 

Ralph Cain

Zechariah 9

While I was reading this chapter, I think about reading the last chapter in a saga.  We know the end and it is great, we win, we live forever more.  The verse that really stood out to me was verse 16.

 

And the LORD their God shall save them in that day as the flock of his people: for they shall be as the stones of a crown, lifted up as an ensign upon his land. (v16)

 

Not just any stone, or pebble that is picked up would be worthy enough to be put in a crown, but it would be precious stones that would be displayed, and lifted upon high for all to see.

 

Men, we, and all our families are precious in the sight of God.  He came to this earth for each one of us.  Let's all give our best, to keep his commandments, and do whatever is pleasing in his sight, lift him up, worship, and live for him.

 

The wise King Solomon said the conclusion of the whole matter was to fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

 

Ralph Cain

Zechariah 8

These are the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbor; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates:

Zech 8:16

 

Can you hear the cries of the lost? Do you see the pain in their eyes as you pass them on the streets? As you drive by the homeless does your heart go out to them? When was the last time our hearts felt pain, anguish, and a deep burden for those who need to know the truth. Indifference is a disease that has overtaken our society. Indifference simply is the lack of caring. We don't seem to care whether they know the truth. We just don't want to mess up our schedule to witness. We get into our comfort zones and we don't feel secure stepping out. I have been guilty of this so many times. I no longer want to remain indifferent, but rather I want to become passionate and zealous about reaching the lost!

 

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,

Luke 4:18

 

God has called us to reach the lost. It's time to step out of our comfort zones. It's time to embrace a desire to see souls saved. Time for us to see every seat in the church filled. Time to give of ourselves to the Kingdom!

 

Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? Behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.

John 4:35

 

Mark Denard

Zechariah 7

It is of some importance to remember when these Words of the Lord came to this dear prophet.  Darius was then the king of the Medes and the Persians.  He was the king that stood by Daniel when the presidents conspired to kill Daniel because of his love and worship of Jehovah.  This is the Darius that stood outside of the den where Daniel had spent the night with the lions:

Daniel 6: 20  And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?

21  Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever.

22  My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt.

 

This is the time frame when Zechariah was commanded of the Lord to give the priests and prophets of that day the two messages in this chapter.

Part A

In the month of August (Chisleu) Zechariah was instructed to tell the priests and the prophets of that day that their fasting was not as the façade that they were trying to make it appear.  Their fasting was for self service.  The Lord has a designated fast as described in:

Isaiah 58: 5  Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? Wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD?

6  Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?

7  Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?

8  Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward.

 

Fasting is a source of power with God that we are told not to try to manipulate or control.  The last word of this verse "rereward" is in example the protection for our back.  Thus, the Lord tells them and us "I have your back."  It is not up to us to manipulate to obtain the reward or answer.  The fasting and prayer are God's way of giving us what He deems important and necessary.  It is a prerequisite to "trust in the Lord, and lean not unto our own understanding." Proverbs 3:5.

 

So the first message was that their "FASTING" was for naught.

Part B

The second message was that their designs; to oppress the widows, the fatherless, the stranger and the poor were the cause of the Lord stopping his ears and not hearing their prayers.

 

What a sorrowful state of affairs for the Lord to condemn the self righteous acts of men and refuse to hear when the crying of those great leaders when judgment came.

 

Hear the last verse of this chapter

Zech 7: 14  But I scattered them with a whirlwind among all the nations whom they knew not. Thus the land was desolate after them, that no man passed through nor returned: for they laid the pleasant land desolate.

 

What a message that is just as applicable today as it was in that day.  We must be sure that our actions are pleasing unto the Lord and not for self-satisfaction. 

 

Our cry should be:

Psalms 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.

David DeTar

Zechariah 6

I am not a prophesy expert by any stretch of the imagination.  I perused various commentaries on this chapter and each had a slightly different take on the 4 horses mentioned in the first of the chapter.  … I will leave this alone, other than to say that Brennan would think that prophesy is to him as he loves horses.  However, the one agreement in the commentaries and what I can see from the scripture is that vs 12 and 13 without a doubt points to Jesus our High Priest and King.  I have friends and acquaintances that tend to view him in one light or the other.  To them, he is a judge with no mercy or a benevolent priest who does not have the authority to rule in their lives.  We must see him as Zechariah prophesied and Jesus fulfilled; He is our high Priest, but can only operate as such if we allow him to rule completely in our life as the King that he is. There are many voices in the religious world that want to portray Jesus as a God that is only interested in our happiness.  To them, he is not a ruler, but rather a cheerleader that wants us to do only what makes us happy.  It is almost as though they do not feel the need to serve him as much as they feel the need to be served.  I have found that true happiness comes through complete submission to his will and his rule in our life. Jeff McGee

Zechariah 5

And, behold, there was lifted up a talent of lead: and this is a woman that sitteth in the midst of the ephah. And he said, This is wickedness. And he cast it into the midst of the ephah; and he cast the weight of lead upon the mouth thereof.  (vv 7-8)

 

I do not know all that is pictured in this book of prophecy, and even what imagery I see might be only partially correct, but give me grace as I share what I took away from this short chapter.

 

The ephah was a basket used for measuring grain, and trapped inside, underneath a weight of lead was a woman who signified the wickedness of the nation.  Pastor has reminded us so often that "sin will take you farther than you wanted to go, keep you longer than you wanted to stay, and cost you more than you wanted to pay."

 

Then lifted I up mine eyes, and looked, and, behold, there came out two women, and the wind was in their wings; for they had wings like the wings of a stork: and they lifted up the ephah between the earth and the heaven. (v 9)

 

Not only will sin trap you (see John 8:34, 2 Peter 2:19), but it will also take you away (see 2 Corinthians 6:14, 2 Peter 2:17).  Through these prophets the message should be abundantly clear... "lay aside every weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.  Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross despising the shame." Hebrews 12:1-2

 

Jason Ouellette

 

Zechariah 4

And the angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as a man
that is wakened out of his sleep. And said unto me, What seest thou?
And I said, I have looked, and behold a candlestick all of gold, with
a bowl upon the top of it, and his seven lamps thereon, and seven
pipes to the seven lamps, which are upon the top thereof: And two
olive trees by it, one upon the right side of the bowl, and the other
upon the left side thereof. (vv1-3)

We learn in Revelation 1:20 that the golden candlestick represents the
church. Now, notice that the church is referred to as a GOLDEN
candlestick. Gold is very beautiful and very valuable, but if it's not
cleansed on a regular basis, it becomes tarnished and stained. I
purchased a golden trumpet about 13 years ago that really caught my
eye. It was beautiful to look at the day that I bought it, but once I
stopped cleaning it on a regular basis, it became ugly and dirty. Now
it's pretty ugly overall, and even the best cleaning solutions could
not bring it back to its original condition.

REAL men; we better thank God for a pastor that believes in and
preaches holiness and separation from the world. Ever been to an
Apostolic church that let go of the standard a long time ago? If you
have, you know that it's not a pretty sight. Thank God for our
pastor!!!
The candlestick had seven lamps branching out from it, so many
sockets, in each was a burning and shining light. Does the number
seven strike you as familiar? Read Revelation 1:20 and you'll remember
that the seven golden candlesticks were the seven churches. Matthew
Henry wrote the following in his commentary:

"The Jewish church was but one, and though the Jews that were
dispersed, it is probable, had synagogues in other countries, yet they
were but as so many lamps belonging to one candlestick; but now, under
the gospel, Christ is the centre of unity, and not Jerusalem, or any
one place; and therefore seven particular churches are represented,
not as seven lamps, but as seven several golden candlesticks, Rev.
1:20.

This candlestick had one bowl, or common receiver, on the top, into
which oil was continually dropping, and from it, by seven secret
pipes, or passages, it was diffused to the seven lamps, so that,
without any further care, they received oil as fast as they wasted it
(as in those which we call fountain-ink-horns, or fountain-pens); they
never wanted, nor were ever glutted, and so kept always burning clear.
And the bowl too was continually supplied, without any care or
attendance of man; for (v. 3) he saw two olive-trees, one on each side
the candlestick, that were so fat and fruitful that of their own
accord they poured plenty of oil continually into the bowl, which by
two larger pipes (v. 12) dispersed the oil to smaller ones and so to
the lamps; so that nobody needed to attend this candlestick, to
furnish it with oil (it tarried not for man, nor waited for the sons
of men), the scope of which is to show that God easily can, and often
does, accomplish his gracious purposes concerning his church by his
own wisdom and power, without any art or labour of man, and that
though sometimes he makes use of instruments, yet he neither needs
them nor is tied to them, but can do his work without them, and will
rather than it shall be undone."

I have often wondered why God placed a perfect gospel in the hands of
imperfect people. There's a fictitious story that goes like this:

When Jesus ascended into heaven after leaving His gospel in the hands
of the apostles, the angels gathered around and asked Him some
questions. Among them was the common question, "Is this it? You went
to earth, died, and rose again, and now you're going to leave it in
the hands of these men? What if they fail?" Jesus looked at them and
responded, "I have no other plan."

This is just a story, but its dead truth. Now, let's examine the next
few verses of scripture with this in mind.

Then the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me, Knowest
thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord. Then he answered and
spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel,
saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD
of hosts. Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt
become a plain: and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with
shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it.
Brethren, I write this with tears in my eyes. I can't understand why
God, who is perfect, blameless, sinless, all powerful, all knowing,
and absolutely sinless, would allow this gospel to be proclaimed by
men who were born in sin and shaped in iniquity. Oh, how merciful and
gracious is our God!  (vv 5,6)

If you read nothing else, please read this next sentence. No matter
what you accomplish in life, don't ever forget that you could do
nothing without the power of God working in you! "Not by might, nor by
power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts." In the English
Bible, this name for God is translated, "LORD of hosts." This name for
God is used to describe His power and majesty. A host is a number so
great, that it cannot be numbered by men. Therefore brethren, we don't
serve a God that just leads 12 angels around like Santa Clause, but
our God commands an innumerable number of angels that are at His every
beck and call. But notice what the next verse says:

Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a
plain: and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings,
crying, Grace, grace unto it.
How was Zerubbabel so powerful? (v7)

The reason  that mountains would fall before this man was because he
recognized his place in life. He knew it wasn't by his own might and
power that the mountains would fall, but He knew that God could do
anything.

Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and
let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the
Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall
raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven
him.
He didn't say, "Your prayer of faith shall raise them up", no, but
thank God he wrote, "The Lord shall raise them up." James 5:14-15

You'll never receive anything from God until you realize that the
power is not in your flesh, but it's in the one that created that
flesh. There's a song that says, "It's not about us, but it's about
Jesus." Your faith alone will not accomplish anything. God is the one
who holds the power, but you must also realize that he dwells inside
of you. That's why Paul wrote, "Now unto him that is able to do
exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the
power that worketh in us". The power that you need for your miracle
dwells inside of you. Believe that with all of your heart and
recognize the potential that you have.

REAL men, let's walk into our world today with a renewed determination
to rely on God. Just remember to watch out for falling dirt, because
when you get a revelation of the Spirit that dwells inside of you,
your mountains are going to fall!

Jordan Mills

Zechariah 3

"Is not this man a burning stick snatched from the fire?" (NIV) vs. 2

While we were yet sinners we waited by the fire, living in a state of hopelessness, but the power of God came and gave us a way to Him. In knowing this we sought after the face of God; forsaking our old ways. This repentance, however, came with the enemy railing accusations on us, pointing out the filthy garments that we had worn for so long. So God made a way of cleansing us from this sin of yesterday and brought us to a watery grave, where clean garments worthy for a priest to wear were placed on us as we stepped out of the water, watching the amazement of the enemy who saw us as if we had never sinned.

Yes, through repentance, and baptism we were made clean before God, but this was only part of what we were to do to continue in His grace. "If you will walk in my ways and keep my requirements, then you will govern my house and have charge of my courts, and I will give you a place among these standing here." It was through receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost that we were enabled to truly keep his ways and requirements; through which we will have a place among those who will stand in the kingdom of God.

Joshua the high preist had lived and experienced a shadow of our salvation, which is being given today by the redeeming powers of Jesus. It was that day after experiencing the shadow of things to come that God spoke to him of our saviour, who would set free the ones who would seek after Him. He is the Branch, the one who took away all the iniquities of the land in one day. Through the work of Calvary we no longer have to wear the filthy garments of sin, but clean garments that are fit for priests, so that we may live in newness of life and always do His will.

Mike Creel

Zechariah 1

3 Therefore tell the people: This is what the Lord Almighty says: 'Return to me,' declares the Lord Almighty, 'and I will return to you,' says the Lord Almighty.

It must have of been difficult for the prophet to tell God's people to repent, not again to lose the opportunity as before, not to wait for it may be to late.

Today we had a that very word from out Pastor, Repent! Our "Prophet in the pulpit" is also urging and warning for us to see! Not just the lost sinner to repent, but showing us, we, God's people need to also repent. Was it not the the Lords last word to the Church to Repent!?

To all you REAL men , this is what is on my heart from this chapter. I know that is there is so much more in here. With all the visions, God comforting his people, that he does have love for them (us), and compassion for their (our) concerns. Even vindication of his people in the end of this Chapter is very sobering of Gods power.

But we must be truly sorry for our sins and come to the Lord with a brokenness and truly give ourselves over to him and He will "Return to us".

Lord, Jesus, Thank you from the depths of my Heart for your Grace and Mercy.

Larry Birchfield

Haggai 1

As God began to lovingly reach out to mankind after the fall in the garden, mankind worked very hard at putting God in His place.  Just twelve years after the wisest man that ever lived built the most magnificent church ever built, he began serving other gods and making a lot of bad choices. Solomon spent an incalculable amount of money to basically tell God where He needed to stay and that if he ever needed Him, he knew where to find Him.   That was the attitude of God's chosen people at the time and it seems to be very prevalent in today's modern religious thinking as well. The last thing that mankind should do in these last moments is place God in a box, then walk away and seek Him only when we need something from Him. We need to place God on a throne in the middle of our lives and daily crown Him with praise like never before!   When Haggai stepped on the scene he had history to look to, so he knew how stiff-necked and easily distracted God's people could be.  He did what any good preacher should do in that situation, he preached a twenty-four day revival and encouraged the people to get up and do something for God.   When Jesus stepped on the scene in John 2:19 and stood in the middle of the people's work, He emphatically stated, " Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up!" Many who heard Him that day simply missed the boat. The Jews instantly defended the stones that made up God's pretty little box and in doing so, just as instantly revealed the shallowness of their hearts.   Of course today we know that Jesus was speaking of His body but aren't we sometimes just as guilty as those Jews were then when we cannot see past the brick and mortar? Mankind is building mega churches at an unprecedented rate, yet at the same time the world is tearing down the true temple of God.   When God spoke through the prophet Isaiah and said in 66:1, "Where is the house you will build unto me? and where is the place of my rest?" He knew that some seven hundred years later that the apostle Paul would declare in 1 Cor. 3:16, " Know ye not that ye are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?   The people of F.U.P.C.E. have been called to be builders, and re-builders in the kingdom of God. With one hand we need to reach out to new people and aid them in establishing the foundation on which to build a better life, that being the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Cor 3:11). While with our other hand reaching out with love, and support to those saints who are allowing the Holy Ghost to rebuild upon the rubble.    Verses five and seven of Haggai chapter one says, "Consider your ways". The first instance God is showing us the bad place in life we may find ourselves. The second instance He telling us how to get out of that place. Verse eight, " Bring the wood and build the house". I know that it is hard to see through the pain but it really is that simple. It's key to remember that it's for His pleasure and His glory, not ours. Robert MacPhee

Zephaniah 3

This chapter, and book really, of Zephaniah is glaringly familiar to
me. It's an account of a people reaching the limits of God's jealousy
and suffering the repercussions of their actions. I say it's familiar
because God's wrath is being directed toward a people, or nations,
that think too highly of themselves, feeling no need of God or His
righteousness. This isn't directed to individuals or perhaps a church
as we might find in the New Testament. Rather, this is a contrast
between his chosen people and whole nations who have forgotten the one
true God who is above all, through all, and in us all. God is
condemning cities that have turned away from Him yet still have
righteous men inhabiting those cities. In vs. 7 it tells of the
chances they had to receive instruction, but instead they still seemed
in a hurry to lead wicked lives.

Politics aside, we live in a nation that was founded on Christian
principles, enforced by godly men who feared the Lord. It seems more
and more of our population is completely unfamiliar with God and many
believe we've become a great nation because of our own talents, will,
ambition, resources, or whatever...anything but the grace of God. My
constant prayer is that our nation, by the will of God, would be able
to receive instruction and remember the consequences of nations who
forget who gave us all of this. Lord help us to remain your chosen
people, and let us pray continually for the preservation of Godly
humility and reverence in our nation.

Joey Hart

Zephaniah 2

The prophecy of destruction on the lands that obeyed not the gospel and worshipped idols is spelled out here by Zephaniah. From Gaza to Ashkelon, to Canaan, to Moab, to the Ethopians to Assyria, certain doom is brought to light because of the wickedness of these people.

 

However, this is so graciously preceded by a charge of repentance and awakening (vs 1-3). The chapter begins with the prophet pleading with the people to gather themselves and worship the God they have been defiling.. The end of their very existence is at stake because of their behavior.

 

The final verse brings back to my remembrance the words that described the Titanic—"God himself could not sink this ship."  Verse 15: This is the rejoicing city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none beside me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, and wag his hand.

 

One day, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. When that day comes, will it be one of agony for you? Or have you concerned yourself with the things of God and it will be a joyous day for you? I pray that we all keep in mind Deuteronomy 6:4—"Hear O Israel, the Lord our God is ONE LORD"

 

Tim Jacobs

The prophecy of Zephaniah begins with a promise. A promise of destruction and desolation. A promise of devouring fire and of darkness. A promise from the LORD. For the day of wrath was soon to come upon them, and the word of the Lord was there to confirm that it was to be. It was the unfaithfulness of the nation Israel that had caused such a promise to made. They had given themselves to sin and to idolatry, turning their backs from the Lord. Some had taken a deistic view of God thinking he was not active in their lives. "And it shall come to pass at that time, that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are settled on their lees: that say in their heart, The LORD will not do good, neither will he do evil." (vs. 12) They put there trust in the host of heaven, thinking a sign from the stars would guide their ways. Thus their unrighteousness had brought judgment upon them.

It is by the unrighteous acts of men that judgment will come on the earth, but their was a righteous act of a man that has brought redemption to all of mankind. For it was prophesied long ago that the Lord had prepared a sacrifice, through who's blood a way of escape would be made from the coming judgement. The man Christ Jesus who died for our sins that we would sin no more and see everlasting life. Yes the judgment is still to come, the Lord has spoken, but by His grace those who have faith in Him will escape the day of wrath.  God is not mocked, whatever a man sows he will reap. The ones who continue in unrighteouness will see destruction, but if you have been reedemed by the Lord you will go on in His righteousness, being kept for everlasting life. So be encouraged reedemed of the Lord, and stay faithful to the one who has kept you; for the day of the Lord is near.

"The great day of the LORD is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly, even the voice of the day of the LORD: the mighty man shall cry there bitterly." (vs.14)

Mike Creel

Habakkuk 3

The Prophets, Prayer, and Perspective

In chapter 3 of Habakkuk the word prayer is used as an act of devotion.  The Lord would revive His work among the people in the midst of the years of adversity.  This may be applied to every season when the church, or believer, suffers under afflictions, and trials.  Mercy is what we must flee to for refuge, and rely upon as our only plea.  We must not say, remember our merits, but, Lord remember thy own mercy.  The prophet once felt perplexed; now he has peace.  He once felt confused; now he feels contentment.  He once felt fearful; now he has faith in the future God has planned.  The only thing that changed was his perspective!

What a song, and melody that we as REAL Men must sing daily.  The word "Shigionoth" means, make a melody or a song of.....For example, How Great is our God.

Bro. Morga

Habakkuk 2

Where am I, and what am I standing on?  What am I doing, where is my attention, and what does He want to show us?  First I must be willing to do as instructed.

Our future is already laid out, for He knows the end, from the beginning.  Therefore, I will trust Him, He knows where we are, and the world around us.  He wants us to trust Him, not in things, or graven images.  Look at the end of the chapter, the Lord is in His Holy Temple.  If our body is the Temple of the Holy Ghost, then He dwells in us, and we have fellowship with Him, for He is our friend.

Bro. Steve Mooney

Habakkuk 1

As I read Habakkuk's psalm I could see why commentators labeled him
the Doubting Thomas of the Old Testament. His questions of God seem a
bit whiny, but yet they also hit a little close to home. In verses 2
– 4 he asks the Lord, "how long shall I cry"… "judgement doth never go
forth"

The Lord startles Habakkuk with the answer – "I will work a work in
your days which you will not believe, though it be told you."

And then, backpedaling a bit, Habakkuk asks "we shall not die", and
will you "hold thy tongue when the wicked devoureth the man that is
more righteous than he?"

Habakkuk took his questions to the Lord. I think we need to recognize
the difference between questioning God and taking our questions to
Him. A deceived man says, "Here is my question now give me your
answer." While a Godly man says, "Lord, here is what I do not
understand, help me to know you more."

The name Habakkuk means to "wrestle" or "embrace", how fitting. While
taking his fears to the Lord Habakkuk is wrestling with the injustice
he sees, but God's answers will take him from fear to faith.

Thankfully, God knows and remembers "we are but dust." He knows we
don't always understand, and He wants to take us from worry to
worship. We just have to lay it all at His feet.

Jason Ouellette

Nahum 3

Your eyes open and the sun burns them immediately. Now they're closed
and you raise your hand to shield them as your second attempt to open
allows just a seam of light to make its way through. You're on your
back in the dirt and who knows how long you've been lying there. As
you stand, the stench of overwhelming death makes its path to your
sense of smell you wish you didn't have right now. You're upright now,
bleeding, and bruised, but all you feel is numb all over. All around
homes are either burned, or in pieces scattered about. You can't see
the grass, all you can make out are mounds of clothes, and blood and
then it hits you.

Your memory returns flashes of images that you are hoping was a dream.
Screams, both of horror, and of plunder come racing back. Before the
massacre you remember laughter, and self-serving sins that were common
to a day's routine. Then darkness and swords, and the world spinning
faster than you thought possible. You ran, you fell, you fought your
way around to who knows where, and you didn't know why.

But now you remember. Some man had spoken about the judgment that was
coming. You, just like everyone else, didn't believe him. Now you do,
but it's too late. There is nothing and no one left. You fall to the
ground as the shock leaves you speechless, and now your thoughts
cannot even register as comprehension leaves you. Your eyes close
again.

Now they're open and you lift your head to see your Bible is turned to
Nahum 3. The images leapt off the pages, and into your nightmare. Just
as the dream, you're speechless and your decision is….

REAL men, we have to choose now. We've heard the word of God, but are
we going to wake up when it's too late, or will we wake up now? I pray
that we find within ourselves the determination to obey the word, and
make it to heaven no matter what. Choose you this day whom you will
serve. As for me, and my house, we will serve the Lord.

Tim Jacobs

Nahum 2

A description of Nineveh's judgment, and doom is summed up in this
short chapter. In the 13th verse, the announcement from Nahum is that
the hand of our Almighty God is set against this sinful nation!

One could write a whole sermon on this Old Testament book on the woes
of letting sin contaminate a people, and the very nation they live in.
How wise it would have been too, for them to turn from their sin, and
avoid this judgment.

Steve Moon

Nahum 1

This chapter begins with Nahum announcing God's judgment upon Nineveh, as God had instructed.  More than a century before, God had called Jonah to bring to repentance the city of Nineveh.  Though they did, they failed to leave a legacy of repentance to the following generations.  By the time that Nahum comes on the scene, the nation had fallen into pitiful shape, both morally, and spiritually.  

Nahum clearly tells them of God's anger against the city of Nineveh and declares judgment upon the wicked government and public immorality.  Even as Nahum speaks of the wrath of God, he also speaks of His goodness to those who trust Him.  God tells us that He is slow to anger, and great in power.  In verse 7, God is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble, and He knows those who trust Him.  What a refuge we have in God.  

In verse 13 God speaks of breaking off the yoke from us and tearing off our shackles.  How well this speaks of how we are set free the day we are filled with His wondrous Spirit.  I am so glad that He is slow to anger, for there are times that I would be in trouble.  I am glad for that refuge, and stronghold.  What liberty we have in Him who has set us free, yes free indeed.  Be REAL Men in the liberty that God has afforded us! 

Joe Crosson