warn – Judy in the Sky

Read Matthew 2 – Do you know the Holy Spirit? Are you able to discern his voice over the chatter of life? Will you read our chapter with an eye for all the ways he intervened in the lives of Joseph, and the Magi? Will you consider the priests and scribes who knew Scripture and the prophecies concerning Messiah, yet did nothing! They did not seek to find Messiah, rejoice or worship. They had knowledge, but no love.

Joseph really stands out as a true man under God and spiritual leader of his household. It is him the angel of the Lord addresses to flee to Egypt, then return, but to Nazareth and not Judea.

Men, will you pray for deeper sensitivity to the Holy Spirits lead for you and the family God has entrusted to you? Women, will you pray for your men, spouse, father, son, brother and anyone else the Lord puts on your heart to know and pursue Jesus?

Beloved, we are living in an age where spiritual wisdom and discernment are more important than ever. Matthew 2 has so much to wake us up to!

Read Deuteronomy 28 – Blessings and curses

Our chapter begins with blessings if the Israelites will obey the LORD. It’s beautiful and wonderful how the LORD promises to give, and give, and give.

Then the LORD announces the curses, if the people should reject his commandments.

It’s heavy. He leaves no stone unturned. I found a dreariness falling over my heart as I pressed on in the reading, and you, Beloved, may too. But keep reading. This is justice and the LORD is a Righteous Judge.

This may sound complicated for a person to live up to. I think verses :47-48 sum up the LORD’s desire for us quite simply, “serve the LORD with joyfulness and gladness of heart.” Isn’t that an expectation one could delight to fulfill?

And, as much as it’s important to know the truth about mercy and grace, we should also understand the real penalties at stake for our loved ones and those we meet who reject Christ.

As you read those blessings, ask yourself who might delight to rest in the LORD’S favor like this? Then as you read the curses, ask yourself who would you wish this upon? (the answer should be not a living soul! ) And what about YOU? May these words inspire you to take an honest look at yourself. Complacency is a dangerous enemy.