Preparing To Encounter God

January 17, 2013           Gen 35–36, Matt 12:9–30, Ps 10:1–5, Prov 2:7–8

The first service that one owes to others in the fellowship consists of listening to them. Just as love of God begins with listening to his word, so the beginning of love for our brothers and sisters is learning to listen to them. Bonheoffer, Life Together

In this busy world may we always take time to hear God through His word and hear our brothers and sisters in Christ through their words.

Genesis 35-36

God told Jacob to go back to where his spiritual journey began. Sometimes we have to go back to the beginning to move forward. Jacob knew that he had to cleanse his life and those around him spiritually before they went to the place God had appeared to him. How do you prepare yourself spiritually to encounter God?

The death of Rachel was tragic. No doubt it hurt Jacob for years to come. A child was born during her childbirth and his name was Benjamin.

Reuben was the oldest son and lost his birthright according to 1 Chronicles 5:1 through this sin. How much can be lost for the pleasure of a few moments?

Jacob was able to spend time with his father before he died. It was at Isaac’s death that his sons finally came back together. Why does it take a death to bring some families together? Unfortunately their decedents will be enemies for generations.

Chapter 36

This chapter goes into great detail about the family history of Esau’s descendants. The question is why do we care? Two reasons first, God keeps his promises and Esau would be a great nation. Second, verse 31 and following tells about the kings, which is part of God’s promise. God’s word is true and trustworthy.

Matthew 12:9-30

The Pharisees began to plot to destroy Jesus at this point. Why?

What was Jesus’ response? What can we learn from this?

Verse 20 speaks of the ministry of Jesus, “A bruised reed He will not break, and smoking flax He will not quench.” What does this tell us about the ministry of Christ?

What does this teach us about how we should treat those around us?

Why could the religious leaders rejoice for healing they saw? Do you find yourself looking more to encourage or to criticize?

Jesus made it clear either you are for Him or against Him, which are you?

Psalm 10:1-5

David asks a very honest question, why does God not interview when the wicked take advantage of the poor? How would you answer this question?

Proverbs 2:7-8

We are told that God stores up, shields, guards, and preserves in these verses. What is the expectation for those that want God’s protection according to these verses?

Pray about areas of your life you need to cleanse in order to get right with God.

Pray for wisdom to know how to deal with bruised reeds around you.

Pray for God’s protection this day.