August 15, 2010
Scripture:
Scripture:
John 17:24
We’ve been reminded this morning that God dwelt among Israel, and yet He was distant from them. We, however, because of the redeem work of Christ, can hear His voice say, “Come near unto me, I pray you”. We’ve also been reminded that it was a joy for our Lord to do His Father’s will. He wanted us to be with Him, and told us that before the cross; even though He knew what it would cost. We’ve had a precious time here this morning, but what a time we will have up there when we are with Him. Surely we can sing, “O Lord, we adore Thee”.
Hymn - Into a tent where a gypsy boy lay
Prayer
I have been having a serious problem at our house this week. I have been finding what looks like sawdust piling up near the back door of the garage. What do you think could be causing this to happen? It turns out to be some ants that are boring tunnels in the wood of the garage roof. They are called carpenter ants, and they have been very busy making themselves a nice cozy home in our garage beam. Now this weakens the beam so it is a serious problem to me!!
The interesting thing is that the ant is mentioned two times in the Bible, and both times they are spoken of as being wise. We will notice this by reading Proverbs 6:6 – 8. The other place is Proverbs 30:25.
These little ants are used by God as an example to us. They are diligent in the summer to prepare for the winter. God says they are wise because they prepare now for the future. Now, in this life, is the time for us to prepare for the future – eternity. Now is the time to take the Lord as our Saviour – not later.
The wise man built his house upon the rock. When the floods came he was safe.
We continued to notice how this remnant of Judah had “dealt treacherously” or unfaithfully in its relationships, and the solemn rebukes of God through Malachi.
Verse 10 tells of this unfaithfulness to each other, within the tribes.
Verses 11 & 12 tell of their unfaithfulness to God by marrying heathen women and adopting their gods – the unequal yoke.
Verse 13 tells of the weeping due to God’s chastening them for their unfaithfulness, but they are insensitive to it.
Verse 14 & 15 tell of their unfaithfulness in their families – to their wives, denying that oneness that God intended marriage to signify, being a type of Christ and the church. There is one body.
Verse 16 tells of their unfaithfulness in putting away (i.e. in discipline) and how God hates this.
It was noticed that each of these rebukes serves as a warning to us in these remnant days, but also serves as an encouragement that in spite of the extreme weakness of this day of small things God still delights in His people going on faithfully to the end.
Hymn 327, Little Flock – Lord Jesus! are we one with Thee?
Prayer