Embracing The Rule Of God In Our Lives

January 02, 2013            Gen 4–5, Matt 2, Ps 2, Prov 1:3–4

 “Everyone thinks of changing the world, but where, oh where, are those who think of changing themselves?” Richard Foster. To be the person God has called you to be today you must make the conscious effort to position yourself for spiritual growth. As we consider these verses today know that the Word of God has the power to change your life. Move from reading to studying to meditating to putting into practice God’s Word.

Genesis 4-5

Satan appeared in Chapter 3 and tempted Adam and Eve. In Chapter 4 he shows up again. A reoccurring theme in the Bible is Satan attempting to bring down God’s people. Never forget that Satan is like a roaring lion seeking souls to devour (1 Peter 5:8-9).  

Why did God reject Cain’s sacrifice?

Romans 12:1-2 says we are to present ourselves as living sacrifices to God daily. How do we do that?

God warned Cain that sin was lying at his door waiting to pounce on him. Often we know when we are tempted by sin. Perhaps it is our anger or our pride or lust that Satan uses. When you know you are tempted how do you flee from it?

Who in your life can you go to for help when you are tempted?

Cain’s anger turned to hatred and ended in murder. Is there anger or hatred in your soul that you need to deal with today? Is there someone you need to reconcile with before it is too late?

What was the result of Cain’s sin?

Notice that all of Cain’s relationships were ruined because of his anger (with God, parents, brother, and those around him). Is this not often the case when we rebel against the will of God?

Is it wrong to be angry?

Read Ephesians 4:26, what is righteous anger?

In Chapter Five Enoch is briefly mentioned. What set him apart from all others of his age?

This chapter ends with the man Noah. His name means “rest” in what way did the people of his age and do the people of our age seek rest? In what way does God provide it?

Matthew 2

How does one react to birth of Christ?

The Magi came to worship the new born king. They were astrologers (scientists that studied stars) and wise men in more than one way. Einstein once said, “Science without religion is lame and religion without science is blind.” When we see a conflict between science and our faith it because either the science is flawed or our theology is flawed. We can study the ways of creation (science) and it can point to the Creator.

The biblical scholars of the day in Jerusalem knew the prophecies and were able to point the magi in the right direction. However, their reaction is one of indifference. They were but a few short miles from the Christ child and they did not go see. That is tragic. We may know the mysteries of God, but if we do not put them to use we are lame.

Herod reacted to the news of the birth with fear and wrath. Satan worked on this man in horrible ways (his life and works are both fascinating and disturbing). We must be cautious everyday not to allow our own ambitions and emotions to cloud the truth from our eyes.

Mary and Joseph responded to the birth of Christ in the same way they had all along, in faith. They moved twice and both times prompted by God.

How do you react to the news Emmanuel?

Psalm 2

This Psalm is quoted 7 times in the NT and every time it refers to Christ.

In this Psalm the people rebel against God and His rule. In what ways does the world do this today? In what ways do you?

What is God’s answer to this rebellion?

The psalm ends with a warning and a blessing. The warning is to kiss the feet of the King in submission or face His wrath. The blessing is for those that take refuge in the Lord.

Are you blessed today?

Proverbs 1:3-4

These verses tell us that proverbs are to teach us wisdom, justice, judgment, and equity, as well as to give the simple prudence and the young person knowledge and discretion.

Would you say this applies to you?

Where do you lack wisdom in your life?

All four of these texts are related in my mind. They all deal with embracing the rule of God in our lives. Cain did not and there was death and exile. The magi did and were blessed. Herod did not there was great weeping. The Psalm warns us of the consequences of rebelling against God and the proverbs point us to wisdom found in God. 

Please pray today for the Lord to reveal to you where you are weak and to give you the discernment and wisdom to seek His presence and shelter.

As always if I can pray for you or help you or simply be a listing ear do not hesitate to let me know how.