Delrifkah: Thought FOR TODAY

Thought FOR TODAY

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
What you are is GOD'S gift to you, what you make of yourself is your
gift to GOD.
THE TRUE GOD
"Whatever is by order of the GOD OF HEAVEN must be carried out
diligently for the HOUSE OF THE GOD OF HEAVEN, else wrath will come upon
the king and his sons." [Ezra 7. 23 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
Artaxerxes, the emperor of Persia, gave this decree to Ezra the scribe
as another of the surprising acknowledgments in HOLY scriptURE by pagan
idolaters that the TRUE GOD is "the GOD OF HEAVEN." Abimelech, of the
Philistines, and Pharaoh in Egypt also were compelled to acknowledge the
ONE TRUE & LIVING LORD GOD. [Genesis/Bereshith 21. 22; 41. 38] Balaam,
the false prophet of Mesopotamia, recognized that the LORD OF ISRAEL was
omnipotent. "I have no power to speak freely. I can utter only the word
that GOD puts into my mouth, that I must speak." [Numbers (B'Midvar) 22.
38 Tanakh, Torah]
Nebuchadnezzar, the mighty king of Babylon spoke these words, "I bless
the MOST HIGH and praise and glorify the EVER-LIVING ONE, WHOSE dominion
is an everlasting dominion and WHOSE kingdom endures throughout the
generations. All the inhabitants of the earth are of no account. HE does
as HE wishes with the host of heaven, and with the inhabitants of the
earth. There is none to stay HIS hand or say to HIM, 'What have YOU
done?'" [Daniel (Danyel) 4. 31 - 32 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
The nations and the leaders of the world were and still are guilty of a
dangerous and foolish sin; they "changed the glory of the incorruptible
GOD into an image made like corruptible man€ ¦’¥birds and four-footed
beasts and creeping things" preferring to worship and serve the creature
more than the marvelous CREATOR. Such a person is without excuse,
inasmuch as creation itself reveals the MASTER DESIGNER. "For since the
creation of the world HIS invisible attributes are clearly seen, being
understood by the things that are made, even HIS eternal power and
GODHEAD, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew
GOD, they did not glorify HIM as GOD, nor were thankful, but became
futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.
Professing to be wise, they became fools. Therefore GOD also gave them
up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their
bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of GOD for the lie, and
worshiped and served the creature rather than the CREATOR, WHO is
blessed forever. Amen" [Romans 1. 20 - 25] They conceived a form of
religion replacing the ALMIGHTY LORD GOD with nature, denying any real
creation, and this led to idolatry of worshipping nature and forces in
nature, and setting up various gods and goddesses.
However, in their hearts they know that there really is a "GOD OF
HEAVEN" WHO created all things and WHO will someday come in great wrath
against all who reject HIM. Those who discard and refuse HIS GRACE are
left with HIS LAW.
"For all the gods of the peoples are mere idols; but the LORD GOD made
the heavens." [Psalms (Tehillym) 96. 5 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "The LORD will
show HIMSELF terrible against them, reducing all the gods of the earth
to nothing; all the coastlands of the nations shall bow down to HIM and
worship - every man in his own home." [Zephaniah (Tsefanyah) 2. 11
Tanakh, Nevi'im] Bless the HOLY NAME of YEHOWAH, the ETERNAL LORD GOD
OF HEAVEN forever more! Amen

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
May the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL bless you abundantly. Magnified and
sanctified be the GLORIOUS NAME of the LORD GOD in the world which HE
created according to HIS will. May HE establish HIS Kingdom during our
life and during our days, and during the life of all the House of
Israel, even speedily and at a near time, Amen.

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.


Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/
<http://delrifkah.homestead.com/>

Thought FOR TODAY



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Our past need not determine our future.

HE HAS COME
"Seventy weeks of years have been decreed for your people and your Holy
City until the measure of transgression is filled and that of sin
complete, until iniquity is expiated, and eternal righteousness ushered
in; and prophetic vision ratified and sealed, and the Holy of Holies
anointed. You must know and understand: From the issuance of the word to
restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the time of the MESSIAH NAGIYD (THE
ANOINTED PRINCE) is seven weeks; and for sixty-two weeks it will be
rebuilt, square and moat, but in a time of distress." [Daniel (Danyel)
9. 24 - 25 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Nearly 500 years prior to the date of the coming of MESSIAH, the Angel
Gabriel gave this remarkable prophecy to Daniel the prophet, predicting
the date of HIS coming. From the announcement to the coming of MESSIAH
THE KING, there would be 69 weeks, literally "sevens" meaning seven-year
periods in this context. Implying that MESSIAH would come as the
ANOINTED ONE 483 years after the commandment was given to rebuild
Jerusalem. This date was the timing when MESSIAH JESUS entered
Jerusalem to be acknowledged as its PROMISED KING.

The letter or decree (command, authorization, etc.) for the rebuilding
of Jerusalem was during the time of Nehemiah: "In the month of Nisan,
in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes". . . when Nehemiah said to the
king, "if it pleases, let me have letters to the governors of the
provinces beyond the River, directing them to grant me passage until I
reach Judah; likewise a letter to Asaph the keeper of the King's
Forest, directing him to give me timber to make beams for the gatehouses
of the citadel which pertains to the Temple fortress and the City walls
and for the house I shall occupy.' The king granted them to me,
thanks to my GOD'S benevolent hand upon me." [Nehemiah (Nechemah) 2.
1, 7 - 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The prophecy of Gabriel went on to say, "And after those sixty-two
weeks, the ANOINTED ONE will be cut off executed for a capital crime."
[Daniel (Danyel) 9. 25 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Or, to be specific --
although MESSIAH would come as promised, HE would be slain instead of
being crowned as KING. Since the 483-year period has long since
terminated, it is perfectly clear that MESSIAH must have already come,
and then been put to death at that time.

The terms of this remarkable prophecy have been precisely fulfilled in
YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, ALMIGHTY GOD'S ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON alone, and no
one coming later could have done so. No wonder the LORD JESUS wept over
Jerusalem, pronouncing her coming judgment, "For days will come upon you
when your enemies will build an embankment around you, surround you and
close you in on every side, and level you, and your children within you,
to the ground; and they will not leave in you one stone upon another,
because you did not know the time of your visitation." [Luke 19. 43 -
44]

As we continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and Israel, we weep
also as did our LORD JESUS. All the while, we trust GOD'S perfect
omniscient planning, for "through their (Jews) fall, to provoke them to
jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles. Now if their (Jews) fall
is riches for the world, and their (Jews) failure riches for the
Gentiles, how much more their (Jews) fullness!" [Romans 11. 11 - 12]
In this, we greatly rejoice.



Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Through the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA, Israel will be renowned, joyous, famous
and glorious above all the nations on earth. [Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 33.9]
As it goes for Jerusalem, so it will go for the rest of the world...do
not be deceive into thinking anything less.
Yom Yerusalayim - Jerusalem Day "If I forget you, O Jerusalem, may
my right hand forget her skill." Psalms/Tehillym 137.5 Jerusalem will
celebrate the 43rd anniversary. Of its reunification in 1967. GOD has
put HIS NAME in Jerusalem: "In this House, and in Jerusalem, which I
have chosen out of all tribes of Israel, will I put my name for
ever€ ¦’¥" [2 Kings/Melakhim Bet 21:7b]
The HIGH & LOFTY CREATOR promises a curse upon the nations that come
against Jerusalem: "And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will
seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem."
[Zechariah/Zecharyah 12. 9] ALMIGHTY GOD promises a blessing on those
who bless Israel. Please join us today and bless Israel with your
prayers.


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.



Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/

Thought FOR TODAY

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
May the seed that you sow take root downward and bear fruit upward.
MESSIAH IN THE OLD COVENANT
"Let me tell of the decree: the LORD said to me, 'YOU are MY SON, I have
FATHERED YOU this day." [Psalms (Tehillym) 2. 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
There are many monotheists today (specifically Muslims, Jews and liberal
Christians) who believe in one SUPREME GOD, but reject the deity of
MESSIAH YESHUA. They argue that the doctrine that JESUS was the unique
SON OF GOD was invented by the early Christians and that the GOD of the
OLD COVENANT had no SON. Orthodox Jews, in particular emphasize the
Shema: "Hear, O Israel: the LORD our GOD, the LORD is one."
[Deuteronomy/Devarim 6. 4 ] And the Muslims acknowledge that Allah has
no sons, only daughters (Venus, the Sun, and Fortune) proving the one
they worship is not the HIGH & HOLY GOD OF CREATION.
The fact, however, is that there are numerous verses in the OLD COVENANT
that speak to prove that OMNIPOTENT GOD has an ONLY BEGOTTEN SON: The
great promise of SOVEREIGN GOD to David states, "I will raise up your
offspring after you...I will be a FATHER to HIM, and HE shall be MY
SON...before ME YOUR Throne shall be established forever." [2 Samuel
(Shemuel Bet) 7. 12, 14, 16 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
Agur asked a rhetorical question: "WHO has ascended into heaven and come
down? WHO has gathered the wind in the hollow of HIS hands? WHO has
bound the waters in a garment? WHO has established all the extremities
of the earth? What is HIS NAME, or HIS SON'S NAME, if you know it?
[Proverbs (Mishle) 30. 4 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
The book of Isaiah is replete with prophecies related to the ANOINTED
SON OF GOD MOST HIGH: "Assuredly, my LORD will give you a sign of HIS
OWN accord: Look, the virgin (Hebrew: almah- an engaged virgin) shall
conceive and bear a SON, and shall call HIS NAME IMMANU'EL (literally
meaning: GOD with us)." [Isaiah 7. 14] "For a Child has been born to
us, a SON has been given us. Authority will be upon HIS shoulder. And,
HIS NAME will be called WONDERFUL, COUNSELOR, MIGHTY GOD, EVERLASTING
FATHER, PRINCE OF PEACE. Of the increase of HIS government and limitless
peace there will be no end. Upon the David's Throne and over HIS
Kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from
that time forward, even evermore. The zeal of the LORD OF HOSTS shall
bring this to pass." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 9. 6 - 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
"Behold! MY SERVANT WHOM I uphold, MY ELECT ONE in WHOM I delight! I
have put MY SPIRIT upon HIM; HE will teach the true way to the Gentiles.
HE will not cry out, nor raise HIS voice, nor cause HIS voice to be
heard in the street. A BRUISED REED, HE shall not be broken, and SMOKING
FLAX, HE will not be snuffed out. HE will bring forth justice for truth.
HE will not fail nor be discouraged, till HE has established justice in
the earth; and the coastlands shall wait for HIS Teachings. Thus says
GOD THE LORD, WHO created the heavens and stretched them out, WHO spread
forth the earth and what it brings forth, WHO gives breath to the people
on it and life to those who walk thereon...The LORD goes forth like a
MIGHTY MAN; HE shall stir up HIS zeal like a man of war. HE shall cry
out; Yes, shout aloud, HE shall prevail against HIS enemies." [Isaiah
(Yeshayah) 42. 1 – 5, 13 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
Then there is the most definitely marvelous verse regarding JESUS THE
SON OF GOD found in the MESSIANIC Psalms which concludes with this
exhortation: "Kiss the SON, lest HE...Blessed are all those who put
their trust in HIM." [Psalms (Tehillym) 2. 12 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
Assuredly and definitely, the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is the HOLY ONE OF
OLD, the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, the FIRST-BORN of the MOST HIGH. the EXALTED
KING of all ages.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Praised are YOU, O LORD GOD, for great is YOUR love for us and YOUR
compassion boundless. Be gracious to us that we may understand and
fulfill the teachings of YOUR REVERED WORD. Enlighten our eyes in YOUR
Law that we may cling to YOUR commandments. Thank YOU for YOUR saving
power, for from YOU comes our help. Draw us nearer to YOU to serve YOU
in faithfulness. Joyfully, we lift our voices and proclaim YOUR PRECIOUS
NAME.

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.

Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/
<http://delrifkah.homestead.com/>

Thought FOR TODAY



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Man is capable of perfection because of the power of reason given to him
by the ALMIGHTY CREATOR GOD. "Therefore, you shall be perfect, just
as your FATHER in heaven is perfect." [Matthew 5. 48]

DEFENDING THE FAITH
"I am appointed for the defense of the GOSPEL." [Philippians 1. 17]

Many are the societal CHRISTians today who abuse the use of Documented
Evidences (apologetics) in CHRISTian witnessing, feeling it is somehow
dishonouring to YESHUA ha'MASHIACH or to the HOLY scriptURES in trying
to defend them; thus distorting and violating one of the commands of the
Lord JESUS.

The Apostle Paul, however, did not refrain, by any means, the
opportunity to expound the WRITTEN WORD. The GOSPEL does need
defending, and Paul was set for its defense against the attacks of its
adversaries. Also, he told his disciples that "in the defense and
confirmation of the GOSPEL, you all are partakers with me of grace."
[Philippians 1. 7]

Since we are "partakers" with Paul in this defense, we also need to be
prepared and have our face set for its defense. We must "ALWAYS BE
READY to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope
that is in you, with meekness and fear." [1 Peter 3. 15] Any
CHRIST-like-one who shares his faith with the unsaved has encountered
many who cannot or will not believe the simple plan of salvation until
his questions are answered. We must be familiar with the "many
infallible proofs" [Acts 1. 3] of the deity of the LORD JESUS, the
ANOINTED ONE, and HIS power to save, both as OMNIPOTENT CREATOR and the
HUMBLE SIN-BEARING SAVIOUR. We must "search the scriptURES daily" and
also study the "witness" HE has given in the creation [Acts 17. 11; 14.
17], along with believing the "many infallible proofs" [Acts 1. 3] left
here. "The works of the LORD are great, studied by all who have
pleasure in them and within reach of all who desire them." [Psalms
(Tehillym) 111. 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "All scriptURE is given by
inspiration of GOD, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for
correction, for instruction in righteousness." [2 Timothy 3. 16]

"Be diligent to present yourself approved to GOD, a worker who does not
need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the WORD OF TRUTH." [2 Timothy 2.
15] Effectively done, fruit will be produced that will "remain" [John
15. 16] instead of a withered crop that "has no root." [Mark 4. 6]
"Test all things; hold fast to what is good." [1 Thessalonians 5. 21]

May the ETERNAL ONE, blessed be HE, help us be among the victorious
defenders of the GOSPEL, which is the only "GOOD NEWS" from which
righteousness and praise springs forth.


Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
LORD, help us to break down the barriers which keep us from YOU. . .
falsehood & faithlessness, callousness & selfishness, injustice &
hard-heartedness.
Remember, keep looking up, the best is yet to be!


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.


Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/
<http://delrifkah.homestead.com/>

Thoughts Archived: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/delrifkah/
<http://groups.yahoo.com/group/delrifkah/>

Thought FOR TODAY



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Redeem us, O LORD GOD, from the serfdom (slavery) of ignorance and
irreverence.

ALL DAGONS WILL BOW
"Early the next day, the Ashdodites found Dagon fallen and lying face
down on the ground before the Ark of the LORD. The head and both hands
of Dagon were broken off, lying on the threshold; only the torso of
Dagon was left intact." [1 Samuel (Shemuel Alef) 5. 4 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

When the Philistines took the Ark of GOD and brought it from Ebenezer
(means: stone of help) to Ashdod (means: aggressor, enemy, ravager) they
brought the Ark into the Temple of Dagon and set it by that heathen
idol. Subsequently, when they arose early the next morning. . . there
was Dagon. . . fallen on its face to the earth before the Ark of the
LORD. So they took Dagon and set it in its place again. [1
Samuel/Shemuel Alef 5. 1 - 3] To the people's dreaded shock and dismay,
they again found the dead idol face-down before the Ark of the MIGHTY
ONE. This time, it's head and hands broken off -- demonstrating his
worthlessness. When the men of Ashdod saw how matters stood, they said,
"The Ark of the GOD OF ISRAEL must not remain with us, for HIS hand has
dealt harshly with us and with our god, Dagon." [1 Samuel (Shemuel Alef)
5. 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

How very foolish people are to turn to make-believe, imaginary gods and
idol's made with their own hands. For all the false gods (Moslem's
Allah, Buddhist's Buddha, Mormon's Moroni, statues, images & idols of
so-called gods, sports figures, movie stars, nature worshipers, etc.)
will also prove to be just as useless as Dagon and will fall before the
GREAT GOD OF ISRAEL. They all will stoop and bow down. They cannot
release or rescue anyone from his burden and they themselves must be
carried. [Isaiah/Yeshayah 46. 1 - 2]

The BLESSED CREATOR'S first commandment was: "You shall have no other
gods besides ME." Furthermore, "You shall not make for yourself a
sculptured image, or any likeness of what is in the heavens above, or on
the earth below, or in the waters under the earth. You shall not bow
down to them or serve them. For I the LORD your GOD am a JEALOUS,
IMPASSIONED GOD." [Exodus (Shemot) 20. 3 - 5 Tanakh, Torah] Later HE
admonished the people, "You must tear down and destroy their altars,
smash their sacred pillars, and cut down their wooden images and the
sacred posts; for you must not worship any other god, because the LORD,
WHOSE NAME is QANNA (jealous - impassioned), is a JEALOUS GOD." [Exodus
(Shemot) 34. 13 - 15 Tanakh, Torah]

The HOLY scriptURES are peppered with warnings: "Turn to ME and gain
success, all the ends of earth! For I am GOD, and there is none else. By
MYSELF have I sworn; from MY mouth has issued truth, a word that shall
not turn back: to ME every knee shall bow, every tongue swear loyalty."
[Exodus (Shemot) 20. 22 - 23 Tanakh, Torah] It is also written: "As I
live, says the LORD, every knee shall bow to ME, and every tongue shall
confess to GOD. So then each of us shall give account of himself to
GOD." [Romans 14. 11 - 12] "Therefore GOD also has highly exalted HIM
and given HIM the NAME which is above every name, that at the NAME OF
JESUS every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth,
and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that
JESUS CHRIST is LORD, to the glory of GOD THE FATHER." [Philippians 2. 9
- 11]

Oh come and see that the LORD is good! Bow your knee and your heart
before the GREAT GOD OF THE UNIVERSE willingly, now before it is too
late. Turn to the KING ETERNAL, HE alone has the power and ability to
save us all from certain and imminent eternal torment.


Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Welcome Shabbat! – Come, let us go out to meet the Sabbath Queen,
Sabbath presence, let us welcome. O FATHER in Heaven, in YOUR great
love YOU appointed for us a day of rest, that in YOUR PRESENCE we may
regain that freedom of the soul which comes through obedience to YOUR
commandments. Quickened by YOUR spirit, may we learn how to ennoble the
things of earth by sanctifying them to YOUR service. We honour and
praise the LORD YESHUA, the BLESSED ONE, WHO separates the sacred from
the mundane and gives true Sabbath peace and rest. May peace abundant
descend from heaven with life for us and to all Israel, Amen


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.

Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/
<http://delrifkah.homestead.com/>

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Repentance and good works are as a shield against retribution.
THE BRANCH
"In that day the radiance of the Branch of the LORD will lend beauty and
glory; and of the splendid fruit, my LORD will give excellence of
dignity and majestic (honour & glory) to the survivors of Israel."
[Isaiah (Yeshayah) 4. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
"THE BRANCH" is a fascinating title for MESSIAH, the PROMISED TRUE VINE,
also being the BRANCH OF THE LORD, the SPLENDID FRUIT OF THE LAND. HE is
beautiful, glorious, excellent and comely. . . all together lovely.
"But, a ROD (Hebrew: choter ) shall come forth, a BRANCH (Hebrew: netser
- descendant) shall grow out of the root of Jesse." This is speaking of
the "GREATER SON" of King David, and "a BRANCH shall sprout from his
stock (Hebrew: geze € ¦’¶ to cut down, a trunk, stump {of a tree}). The
SPIRIT OF THE LORD shall rest upon HIM: The SPIRIT of wisdom and
understanding, the SPIRIT of counsel and might, the SPIRIT of knowledge
and of the reverential fear of the LORD." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 11. 1 - 2
Tanakh, Nevi'im]
There are two references in Jeremiah and two in Zechariah calling
MESSIAH YESHUA, "THE BRANCH." In the Jeremiah passages, HE is the
BRANCH OF DAVID: "Behold, the day is coming - says the LORD - that I
will raise to David a BRANCH OF RIGHTEOUSNESS." [Jeremiah/Yeshayah 23.
5; 33. 15]
In Zechariah's prophecy, MESSIAH YESHUA is called "GOD'S SERVANT" and
"GOD'S MAN." "For behold, I am going to bring MY SERVANT THE BRANCH."
[Zechariah (Zecharyah) 3. 8 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "Behold the MAN , the
future KING of David's line, called the BRANCH shall grow out from the
place where HE is, and HE shall build the Temple of the LORD."
[Zechariah (Zecharyah) 6. 12 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
This fourfold presentation of the BRANCH of David, the BRANCH as the
SERVANT, the MAN WHO is the BRANCH and the BRANCH OF THE LORD
beautifully corresponds to the four GOSPELS depiction of LORD MESSIAH
JESUS as KING (Matthew), SERVANT (Mark), PERFECT MAN (Luke) and SON OF
GOD (John).
Just as a vine or a tree branch, when it first begins to shoot forth, it
appears small and fragile and easily broken, so the Lord Messiah Jesus
appeared to be inconspicuous and unattractive. "For HE has grown, by
HIS favour, as a TENDER PLANT, and as a TREE ROOT out of arid ground."
[Isaiah (Yeshayah) 53. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
Yet, this same FRAGILE BRANCH will one day become a GREAT VINE with
innumerable branches [John 15. 5] that will spread its exceptionally
admirable and wonderfully elegant fruit throughout the entire world.
The LORD JESUS gives HIS PRECIOUS NAME to HIS people, they are called
CHRISTians [Acts 11. 26], CHRIST-like-ones or sons of GOD. [John 1. 11 -
12; 1 John 3. 1 - 2] We, YESHUA'S branches, are to be like HE was in
the world. If JESUS CHRIST is not our LORD, we are nothing. . . HE is
everything wonderful!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
May it be YOUR will, LORD our GOD and GOD of our fathers, MERCIFUL KING,
in YOUR abundant love, again to have mercy on us and on YOUR Sanctuary,
rebuild it speedily and magnify YOUR glory! Blessed are YOU, WHO in YOUR
glory gives life and light to the whole world. For YOUR great goodness
and endless mercies, we give YOU thanks, praise and glory.

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.

Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/
<http://delrifkah.homestead.com/>

Thought FOR TODAY
A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
As if it were not sufficient enough that the MIGHTY GOD OF THE UNIVERSE
answers prayer, HE always exceeds our expectations.
THE OMER
"On the day of the First Fruits, your Feast of Weeks, when you bring an
offering of new grain to the LORD, you shall observe a sacred occasion:
you shall not work at your occupations." [Numbers (B'Midvar) 28. 26
Tanakh, Torah]
On the morning after the first day of Passover (the morning after the
Sabbath) the High Priest was commanded to bring a "sheaf (omer) of
firstfruits" and wave it "to and fro" in the Temple before the LORD GOD.
The Hebrew word for wave is "newpah" denoting a "violent shaking."
Fifty days after the second morning of the Passover Feast, the Jewish
people were commanded to celebrate this Feast. A new offering was to be
brought to the LORD ALMIGHTY on that day and waved before HIM by the
High Priest. This offering consisted of "two wave loaves as an
elevation offering; each shall be made of two-tenths of an ephah of
choice flour, baked after leavening, as firstfruits to the YEHOWAH."
[Leviticus (Vayikra) 23. 17 Tanakh, Torah]
The JEWISH MISHNAH tells that the sheaf of barley harvest was marked out
by three men after the sunset on Nisan 14 which was the beginning of
Nisan 15. They cut down a sheaf and brought it to the Temple to lay it
before the LORD ETERNAL after they had dried it by fire. There it
rested on the Sabbath day and the "morrow after the Sabbath (the morning
hour is implied)" the priest would wave the sheaf before the HOLY ONE
and begin to count the days to Shavuoth/Pentecost.
If this is the case, we see the SHEAF cut down is YESHUA ha'MASHIACH,
WHO was cut down in human life in the field of this world. The SHEAF
laid up before the LORD GOD after the testing of fire and resting in the
Temple on the Sabbath is MESSIAH WHO, after being cut down was prepared
for burial and wHOSE body rested on the Sabbath in the tomb. The SHEAF
that was waved on high "to and fro" before the LORD ALMIGHTY on the
Sabbath is MESSIAH YESHUA WHO arose from death on the first day of the
week! JESUS is the FIRST-FRUITS of the resurrection! [1 Corinthians 15.
23]
On the evening of the second day of Passover (early morning), three days
after the Passover Lamb was slain, when the priest violently shook the
single sheaf (omer) before GOD, there was an earthquake; by DIVINE POWER
the tomb which held the BODY of the PASSOVER LAMB (MESSIAH YESHUA) was
wrested open! "On the morrow after the Sabbath" � even as the HOLY
ONE had been shown symbolically in the omer. . .JESUS, the PIERCED ONE
arose!
After the LORD JESUS' resurrection, HE remained forty days with HIS
disciples before ascendant into heaven. This testimony was established
by more than 500 Jews who lived in and around Jerusalem, who saw the
events that transpired and testified concerning them. [1 Corinthians 15.
6]
It was Fifty Days after the Passover Lamb of Exodus was slain and the
Israelites had crossed the Red Sea when the LORD manifested HIS power
and glory on Mount Sinai. [Exodus/Shemot 19. 16 - 18] Fifty days after
the TRUE PASSOVER LAMB was slain outside the gates of Jerusalem and had
risen from the dead when the HOLY SPIRIT manifested HIS POWER & GLORY.
[Acts 2. 1 - 4]
On the 50th Day after YESHUA ha'MASHIACH had been crucified as the TRUE
PASSOVER LAMB and had risen from the dead, GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT visited a
group of waiting disciples in the Upper Room. This was pre-figured in
HIS visitation with Moses on Mt. Sinai fifty days after the lamb of
Egypt was slain and they left for the Promised Land! At Mount Sinai,
there was trembling of the mountain at the PRESENCE OF THE MIGHTY GOD.
In Jerusalem, fifty days after the LAMB OF GOD gave HIS life and had
wrested open the tomb, thunderings were heard; at Jerusalem there was
the sound of the rushing wind. At Sinai, GOD'S VoicE was heard by
Israel as a trumpet � "exceeding loud" � at Jerusalem, the notes
of the Gospel were heard through the disciples as they spoke with power
the wonderful works of CREATOR GOD.
On Shavuoth/Pentecost the priest waved two loves before the LORD.
Generally it was forbidden that leaven be brought with a sacrifice: "No
meal offering that you offer to the LORD shall be made with leaven...no
leaven may be turned into smoke as an offering by fire to the LORD."
[Leviticus (Vayikra) 2. 12 Tanakh, Torah] But on this occasion there
was a hidden meaning to the leaven. The OLD COVENANT saints wrote about
this great secret, looked into and inquired concerning its meaning.
From Genesis to Malachi (in the Tanakh, the order is from
Genesis/Bereshith - 2 Chronicles/Dibre Hayamin Bet) it lay hid, like a
golden thread, appearing in prophecy and prediction, in type, parable,
offerings, and feasts. But it never was fully known until the time of
Paul in the NEW COVENANT. [Ephesians 3. 1 - 6] The HOLY SPIRIT revealed
to this Jewish apostle that GOD'S eternal purpose was to take from both
Jews and Gentiles a people for HIS NAME, that they would be made a
joint-body in MESSIAH YESHUA.
Faith in the LORD JESUS makes every man equal in GOD'S sight. The Two
Loaves "baked with leaven" represent Jew & Gentile -- the leaven, a
symbol of sin in them both. As the wave offering was lifted up to a
high plane, so the HOLY SPIRIT leads both Jew and Gentile to the holy
faith in the LORD MESSIAH JESUS to the highest position near to the very
heart of ALMIGHTY GOD. And Jews and Gentile, fulfilling the (two loaves
baked with leaven) stand before the LORD GOD in MESSIAH YESHUA as
candidates for the promise of the HEAVENLY FATHER. Together we are
built for a habitation of GOD OMNIPOTENT through the SPIRIT. [Ephesians
2. 16 - 22] What a marvelous plan!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Watch and pray....the LORD MessiaH YESHUA our KING is coming soon!
Shalom!!

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.

Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/
<http://delrifkah.homestead.com/

Thought FOR TODAY

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Faith doesn't get you around trouble, it gets you through it!!

LAG B'OMER
"And from the day on which you bring the sheaf of Elevation Offering
– the day after the Sabbath – you shall count off seven weeks.
They must be complete." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 23. 15 Tanakh, Torah]
Lag b'Omer means "the 33rd day of the (counting of the) Omer." The omer
(a unit of measure) was a Barley Offering, which was brought in the
Temple on the day we start counting, the second day of Passover, to the
day before Shavuoth, seven full weeks. This period is known as the
"Counting of the Omer."
Every night, from the second night of Passover to the night before
Shavuot, we recite a mitzvah (blessing) and state the count of the omer
in both weeks and days. The counting is intended to remind us of the
link between Passover, which commemorates the Exodus, and Shavuoth
(Pentecost), which commemorates the giving of the TORAH. It reminds us
that the redemption from slavery was not complete until we received the
TORAH (The Law).
"Lag b'Omer" is the thirty-third day of counting the Omer. The word
"lag" means "33" as it is comprised of the Hebrew letters "lamud" and
"gimmel" corresponding to the numerical values of 30 and 3. The Omer
Period is a time of heightened spiritual sensitivity and growth. The
closer Shavuot (Pentecost) draws, the greater our anticipation grows for
the climactic celebration of the "GIVING OF THE TORAH" - the "watershed
event" of Jewish history.
However, the greater the potential there is for growth and building, the
greater the potential there is for destruction. Consequently, in eras
when the Jewish People have not lived up to their potential, the Omer
Period has become one of tragedy: In the time of Rabbi Akiva, who
witnessed the destruction of the Second Temple and who was the greatest
TORAH Sage of his generation from the era of the MISHNAH; 24,000 of his
disciples died in an epidemic. The underlying spiritual cause of the
epidemic was the student's lack of respect for each other. This sad
event and others took place during the Counting of the Omer. As a
result, the Omer Period has become one of semi-mourning in which we
don't hold weddings or festivities, nor do we shave or get haircuts.
But because the epidemic was suspended on the 33rd day, Lag b'Omer --
Lag b'Omer (18th day of Iyar, Tuesday, May 12 this year) has become a
joyous day of celebration, a minor holiday commemorating a break in the
plague.
After all his students died, Rabbi Akiva "started over" and began
teaching other students. One of his foremost students was Rabbi Shimon
bar-Yochai, the author of the ZOHAR. The ZOHAR (means "The Shining
Light"), is the basis of the secret teachings of the TORAH. Some people
light bonfires on Lag b'Omer and sing songs in honour of Rabbi Shimon
bar-Yochai, who revealed the teachings of the ZOHAR to the world on Lag
b'Omer.
In Israel, there are picnics, feasting, dancing, singing, and bonfires
are lit – an unusual memorial but one that the rabbi instructed his
students to observe. Many people wait until their son is three before
cutting his hair, and on the Lag b'Omer of his third year, they cut the
boy's hair. There is also a custom that children play with bows
("keshet" in Hebrew – the same word as rainbow) on Lag b'Omer. And
of recent, it is a national day honoring Israeli Defense Force reserve
soldiers, in appreciation for their motivation and willingness to "share
the load."
As believers in MESSIAH YESHUA, the LORD GOD ETERNAL, we can celebrate
the GREAT KEEPER OF THE VINEYARD, for HE carries all our burdens and has
set us free as we release our heavy load of sin to HIM.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
As we bid farewell to Sabbath with the Havdallah Ceremony, we use all of
our senses: We taste the wine, smell the spices, see the shadow of
candles, hear prayers and songs, touch family and friends as we wish
them tov shavua (good week)! Our prayer is that GOD, WHO separates the
holy from the secular, forgive our sins, guide our life, and fill the
coming days with HIS DIVINE PRESENCE. May some of the sweetness of
Sabbath be your daily fragrance.

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.

Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/

Thought FOR TODAY



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Words of the wise, spoken quietly, should be heard rather than the
bellowing shout of a foolish ruler.

CAPTIVATING EXPERIENCE
"I, Koheleth (the Assembler of sayings) son of David, was king in
Jerusalem over Israel. I set my mind to study and search with wisdom all
that happens under the sun. An unhappy and burdensome task that, which
GOD gave men to be concerned with that they may be exercised."
[Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 1. 12 - 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

These words are from Solomon himself, the one who asked the MOST HOLY
LORD GOD for wisdom to rule the people of Israel. The RIGHTEOUS ONE
gave him his request, plus more. "Because you have asked for the wisdom
and knowledge for to be able to govern and judge MY people over whom I
have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are granted to you; and I will
grant you also wealth, property and glory, the like of which no king
before you has had, nor shall any after you have." [2 Chronicles (Dibre
Hayamin Bet) 1. 11 - 12 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Solomon experienced every human experience possible with forethought.
His planned intention was to experience the effect it would have on ones
life. [Ecclesiastes/Kohelet] His ultimate downfall was in taking an
assorted collection of wives, who turned him from the ONLY TRUE GOD.
This happened after the ETERNAL MASTER had warned Solomon not to
"multiply wives, lest his heart go astray" and they would lead him into
idolatry. [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 17. 17; 7. 1 - 5]

Solomon confessed that wisdom strengthens the wise -- and all this he
proved by his own wisdom and experience. Yet, "wisdom" was far from
him. King Solomon was put to shame, and in the end, his wisdom amounted
to nothing. "All this I tested with wisdom. I thought, 'I will be
wise'- but it eludes me." [Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 7. 23 Tanakh,
Kethuvim] Somomon's conclusion: "Remember your CREATOR! Revere and fear
GOD and keep HIS commandments! This is the whole duty of mankind."
[Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 12. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

However, a truly WISE HOLY GOD/MAN came to be perfected, in fact, by the
things HE experienced. "JESUS, WHO was made a little lower than the
angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honour, that
HE, by the grace of GOD, might taste death for everyone. For it was
fitting for HIM, for WHOM are all things and by WHOM are all things, in
bringing many sons to glory, to make the CAPTAIN of their salvation
perfect through sufferings." [Hebrews 2. 9 - 10]

MESSIAH YESHUA left HIS place in Glory and became a MAN that HE might
(and I say this reverently) "be made" perfect. This GREAT ETERNAL
LOVING CREATOR Of everything, WHO knows all things (omniscient) could
not die. Although HE had the knowledge of death, HE thought it
important to KNOW BY EXPERIENCE. According to the Law, a kinsman could
redeem a brother. [Leviticus/Vayikra 25. 48 - 49] The LORD YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH, our KINSMAN REDEEMER, bought us back after we sold
ourselves into sin.

The REDEEMING MESSIAH, "WHO, in the days of HIS flesh, when HE had
offered up prayers and supplications, with vehement cries and tears to
HIM WHO was able to save HIM from death, and was heard because of HIS
godly fear, though HE was the SON, yet HE learned obedience by the
things which HE suffered. And having been perfected, HE became the
AUTHOR of eternal salvation to all who obey HIM." [Hebrews 5. 7 - 9]
The DELIVERER is now seated at our FATHER'S right hand and is
interceding for us as the GREAT HIGH PRIEST. "For the Law appoints as
high priests men who have weakness, but the WORD OF THE OATH, which came
after the Law, appoints the SON (KING JESUS, the MESSIAH) WHO has been
perfected forever." [Hebrews 7. 28]

MESSIAH YESHUA is LORD and is preeminent over all. HE was, in all
points, tempted as we are. . .yet never sinned. "For we do not have a
HIGH PRIEST who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all
points tempted as we are, yet without sin." [Hebrews 4. 15] "Indeed, a
GREATER than Solomon is here" [Matthew 12. 42; Luke 11. 31] . . .HIM we
should hear and be quick to obey.


Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
May our lips ever declare praises to our KING, HELPER, SAVIOUR & SHIELD
for HIS loving kindness is mighty over us.


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.


Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/
<http://delrifkah.homestead.com/>

Thought FOR TODAY



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The brute will not fear sin, nor will the ignoramus be saintly.

MESSIAH'S SECOND COMING
"As I looked on, in the night vision, One like the SON OF MAN came with
the clouds of heaven; HE reached the ANCIENT OF DAYS and was presented
to HIM. Dominion, glory, and kingship were given to HIM; all peoples and
nations of every language must serve HIM. HIS dominion is an everlasting
dominion that shall not pass away, and HIS kingship, one that shall not
be destroyed." [Daniel (Danyel) 7. 13 - 14 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The first time MESSIAH YESHUA came, HE walked the earth in humiliation;
the SECOND time HE is coming in a blaze of glory! The first time HE came
to die; the second time HE will rule and reign forevermore. The LORD
JESUS came first to redeem; when HE returns HE will claim those HE has
redeemed. The ANOINTED REDEEMER came once that HIS heel might be
bruised by ha'Satan; HE must come again to crush the serpent's head and
with a rod of iron to dash HIS enemies to pieces. The RULER OF ISRAEL
came once to wear a crown of thorns. It is prophesied HE will come
again to wear the diadem of universal dominion. The first time, nailS
were hammered through HIS hands. When the TRIUMPHANT KING returns HE
will grasp the scepter of sovereignty and will reign forever!

From Enoch down to the last prophet declared the second appearing of
CHRIST JESUS. The HOLY SPIRIT, by the mouths of the apostles,
repeatedly said: "JESUS is coming again!" When the disciples were
troubled because they were informed that YESHUA would leave them, HE
comforted them with these words: `Let not your heart be troubled;
you believe in GOD, believe also in ME. In MY FATHER'S house are many
mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a
place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I WILL COME
AGAIN and receive you to MYSELF; that where I am, there you may be
also." [John 14. 1 - 3]

GOD'S WORD is true. Heaven and earth shall pass away, but HIS WORD
shall stand forever. "GOD is not man that HE should lie, or mortal to
change HIS mind. Would HE speak and not act, promise and not fulfill?"
[Numbers (B'Midvar) 23. 19 Tanakh, Torah]

When the followers of the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH asked HIM when HE
would return, HE described to them the events which are now transpiring
in our day before our very eyes. HE said: "Take heed that no one
deceives you. For many will come in MY NAME, saying, 'I am the CHRIST' -
and will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See
that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but
the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom
against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes
in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows...And because
lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who
endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the Kingdom will
be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then
the end will come." [Matthew 24. 4 - 8; 12 - 14]

"Then if anyone says to you, 'Look! here is the CHRIST' or 'There!' do
not believe it. For false christs and false prophets will rise and show
great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I
have told you beforehand. Therefore if they say to you, 'Look! He is in
the desert.' do not go out; or 'Look, he is in the inner rooms!' do not
believe it. For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the
west, so also will the coming of the SON OF MAN be." [Matthew 24. 23 -
27]

All will see and know for themselves, for GOD will make HIS coming
visible to every living being. "Then the sign of the SON OF MAN will
appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and
they will see the SON OF MAN coming on the CLOUDS of heaven with power
and great glory." [Matthew 24. 30]

Some consider the second coming of MESSIAH an experience of death, but
HIS first coming did not mean death to the Jews - rather, it meant more
abundant life! At JESUS' second coming, the enemy, death, will be
swallowed up in victory, those who are dead in CHRIST will arise and
live again!

The second appearing of MESSIAH YESHUA, some express as only a spiritual
coming. But the promise is, "THIS SAME JESUS." Therefore, HIS
appearance is literal and exact. When HE ascended into heaven, HE was
flesh and bones. After HIS resurrection, the LORD appeared to HIS
disciples who thought HE was a ghost. Thus, LORD JESUS urged them to
handle HIM and see -- for HE said: "A spirit does not have flesh and
bones as you see I have." [Luke 24. 39] KING YESHUA will also have the
marks of the wounds in HIS body forever showing evidence of the price HE
paid for our salvation. This same "flesh-and-bones JESUS" shall come
again as HE promised HE would!

Many false christs are in the world today even as the LORD MESSIAH JESUS
warned there would be in the last days before HIS return. But a true
disciple of the LORD is not deceived by them. ALMIGHTY GOD, by HIS
holy angels declared that "this SAME JESUS will so come in like manner
as you saw HIM go into heaven." [Acts 1. 11]

The LORD JESUS CHRIST went away on a cloud in their sight [Acts 1. 9]
and HE is coming back with clouds. MESSIAH ascended suddenly and
miraculously. HIS returning will be SUDDENLY and MIRACULOUSLY. When
YESHUA was ascending into heaven, HIS disciples were watching HIM go
away. MESSIAH JESUS is returning for those who love HIS appearing, who
not only have the knowledge of HIS "second coming," but who are watching
and waiting in great longing, and living lives consecrated to HOLY GOD
in anticipation of this up-coming glorious event! Are you watching in
obedience?

In view of the world events which are taking place around us, the things
our LORD described would occur just before HIS SECOND ADVENT are now
taking place. Each of us who have accepted JESUS as our MESSIAH, KING
and personal SAVIOUR can "Look up, and lift up our heads, for our
complete and final redemption draws near!" [Luke 21. 28]

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Truly, the LORD is waiting to show you grace, truly, HE will arise to
pardon you; for the LORD is a GOD of justice. Blessed are all who wait
for HIM.


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.

Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/

Thought FOR TODAY



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
A big liar - is one whom, not only what he said isn't true, but the
opposite of what he said isn't true either.

NO CONFIDENCE IN THE FLESH
"For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that
circumcision, which is outward in the flesh; But he is a Jew, which is
one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and
not in the letter whose praise is not of men, but of GOD." [Romans 2. 28
- 29]

The Apostle Paul is not speaking to Gentiles here but to Jews who were
trusting in the fact that they were Jews. [Romans 2. 17] Paul is
describing the true Jew who is one not only outwardly but inwardly. He
does not boast in his religion or the fact he is a Jew - - there is no
pride of race in grace - - but he counts all that as loss and his trust
now is in the LORD YESHUA. "For we are the circumcision, who worship
GOD in the spirit, rejoice in CHRIST JESUS, and have no confidence in
the flesh. Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If anyone
else thinks he may have confidence in the flesh, I more so."
[Philippians 3. 3 - 4]

Then Paul explains what it is about the flesh in which he could trust.
"Circumcised on the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of
Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the Law, a Pharisee.
Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness
which is in the Law, blameless." [Philippians 3. 5 - 6]

Now Paul is counting as "unnecessary" and "vain" all those things of the
flesh in which he could have trusted. "But what things were gain to me,
these I have counted loss for CHRIST. Yes indeed, I also count all
things loss for the excellency of the knowledge of MESSIAH JESUS my
LORD; for WHOM I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them
but rubbish and dung, that I may win CHRIST, and be found in HIM, not
having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is
through the faith in MESSIAH YESHUA, the righteousness which is from GOD
by faith." [Philippians 3. 7 - 9]

Jews are again becoming the "people of GOD" just as HE promised. "Once
they were not MY people (Hebrew: lo-ammi)." [see Hosea/Hoshea 1. 9 - 10]
But regardless of being cut-off they would eventually multiply, be
great, and again be called the "children of GOD." "I will say to
Lo-ammi ("not my people"),'You are MY people' - and they will respond,
'YOU are my GOD.'" [Hosea (Hoshea) 2. 23 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Hence, CHRISTianity is not a Gentile religion, but is completely Jewish
-- a relationship with the TRUE & LIVING GOD, developed out of the
Jewish faith found in both the OLD & NEW COVENANTS. All races, classes
and peoples, male & female are equal in rights and privileges relative
to the good news and benefits of the GOSPEL. ALMIGHTY CREATOR GOD does
not recognize one above the other -- all are one in the body of the LORD
YESHUA ha'MASHIACH.



Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our LORD & SAVIOUR,
MESSIAH YESHUA. To HIM be all the glory and praise now and forevermore,
Amen!


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.

Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/
<http://delrifkah.homestead.com/>

Thought FOR TODAY

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Where there is no sense, there is no feeling.
ARK OF THE COVENANT (Part 2)
"They shall make ME an Ark of acacia wood, two and a half cubits long, a
cubit and a half wide, and a cubit and a half high. Overlay it with pure
gold - overlay it inside and out - and make upon it a gold molding round
about." [Exodus (Shemot) 25. 10 - 11 Tanakh, Torah]
The ark of Noah was covered inside and outside with pitch.
[Genesis/Shemot 6. 14] The Hebrew word for pitch is "kaphar" meaning
"to cover up" -- from this comes the word kapporeth (Mercy Seat).
GOLD is symbolic of DIVINITY. The Shittim (acacia) wood is to be
overlaid with this pure metal. According to some Rabbis, "the Ark was
made in three parts and then put together as one." Two parts were to be
of gold and the one in between, of wood. This can very well represent
the TRINITY. The wood is the GO-BETWEEN, THE MEDIATOR, GOD THE SON
manifest in the flesh. GOD THE FATHER and GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT, are seen
as the two layers of gold on each side of the wood.
The Ark also pictures HIM WHO is filled with all the fullness of the
Godhead bodily. [Colossians 2. 9] The gold inside depicts OMNIPOTENT,
OMNIPRESENT, OMNISCIENT CREATOR GOD THE WORD. anointed of the ENABLING
HOLY SPIRIT. [Isaiah/Yeshayah 61. 1] GOD ETERNAL would dwell within
this Tabernacle. The gold on the outside is significant of the LORD
JESUS, WHO is the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD through WHOM the worlds were
made and by WHOM all things consist. [Proverbs/Mishle 30. 4;
Isaiah/Yeshayah 9. 6; Colossians 1. 15 - 17] And, the wood between
tells of YESHUA, the TRUE & FAITHFUL REDEEMER to come WHO became GOD
manifest in the flesh, born of a woman, made under the Law! [Galatians
4. 4]
The one who believes on the MESSIAH YESHUA, the ROCK of our salvation,
is represented in the SON; therefore, the Ark of the Covenant describes
the true Saints of GOD as well. The wood signifies our humanity; the
gold on the outside represents the divine nature of which we are
partakers [2 Peter 1. 4; John 1. 12; 1 John 3. 2], and that gold on the
inside represents the in-dwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT.
A crown indicates authority, dominion and the majesty of a king; it also
implies the finishing touches to a completed task. This ornament of
gold that surrounds the top of the Ark of the Covenant symbolizes THE
KING with HIS power, dominion, and majesty WHO declared upon the Cross:
"It is FINISHED!"
The crown was similar to a rail on the Ark which surrounded the Mercy
Seat above, protecting or guarding, as it were, the SHEKINAH GLORY (HOLY
PRESENCE between the Cherubim) and the Blood of Atonement sprinkled
there. Our LOVING GOD sets a GUARD to protect HIS HOLINESS and the
Blood of Atonement from desecration and defilement at men's hands. HE
is the KING OF GLORY and will never permit HIS mercy to be removed, nor
the blood HE freely gave upon the Altar to be successfully dishonoured
or trampled upon by men!
There are Three Crowns in the Tabernacle Furniture:
Ark of the Covenant -- The CROWN OF THE LAW. [Exodus/Shemot 25. 11]
Altar of Incense -- The CROWN OF THE PRIESTHOOD. [Exodus/Shemot 30. 3]
Table of Showbread -- The CROWN OF THE KINGDOM. [Exodus/Shemot 25. 24]
The last crown mentioned in SCRIPTURE, is a reward for those who are
faithful to the end, "Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for
when he has been approved, he will receive the Crown of Life which the
LORD has promised to those who love HIM." [James 1. 12]
All praise, honour and glory to the GREAT & MIGHTY HOLY GOD we serve,
the COMPASSIONATE, WONDERFULLY AMAZING CREATOR of the ends of the earth!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Man is given choices to act out in this world; but the junctions and
highways have been set in place by the Creator. We have an AWESOME GOD,
and HE is on the throne ruling over the affairs of men. HE is worthy of
all our praise and worship, even in difficult times.

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.
Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com

Thought FOR TODAY



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
From one deep ditch comes more water than from ten shallow ones.

ARK OF THE COVENANT (Part 1)
"They shall make ME an Ark of acacia wood, two and a half cubits long, a
cubit and a half wide, and a cubit and a half high. Overlay it with pure
gold - overlay it inside and out - and make upon it a gold molding round
about." [Exodus (Shemot) 25. 10 - 11 Tanakh, Torah]

The fact that this piece of furniture is listed first in scriptURE shows
its importance in the building of the Tabernacle. This Ark was to be
placed in the Holy of Holies (symbolic of Heaven, GOD'S Throne Room) the
innermost room of the Sanctuary where the SHEKINAH PRESENCE was.
[Exodus/Shemot 26. 34 - 35; 40. 1 - 38] GOD ALMIGHTY works from
HIMSELF; HE moves from Heaven and comes down. HE proceeds from within,
outwards toward man. Man could not go to GOD if HE had not first come
to man. The WAY to GOD is not of man's invention, but of GOD'S
revelation. The Tabernacle furniture begins with GOD'S Throne. The
ETERNAL ONE is first, HE will not be second.

This article of furniture was to be made of shittim (acacia) wood. It
is an incorruptible wood which cannot rot, swell, or shrink. It is a
hard, close-grained wood of great strength and endurance that can
withstand the winds and sandstorms that would destroy weaker and softer
wood. Here, in type, is the incorruptible humanity of YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH WHO grew in the desert of this world, "a tree root out of
arid ground." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 53. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] The LORD JESUS
was strong and enduring, defeating every subtle and vicious scheme of
Satan and HIS enemies. In all points YESHUA was tempted like we are,
yet was sinless. [Hebrews 4. 15] "For in that, HE HIMSELF has suffered
being tempted, HE is able to succor (help, support, champion) them that
are tempted." [Hebrews 2. 18] YESHUA, the WORD-MADE-FLESH, is the
iNCORRUPTIBLE SON OF GOD WHO said to the HEAVENLY FATHER, "YOU will not
abandon ME to Sheol or let your Faithful ONE see corruption." [Psalm
(Tehillym) 16. 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim; Acts 13. 35] The ANOINTED KING &
REDEEMER arose from the grave on the third day before death could
corrupt HIS flesh.

The MASTER DESIGNER gave directions to build the furniture beginning
with the Ark of the Covenant. The Holy Tent was constructed primarily
for this Sacred Chest over which LORD GOD dwelt between the cherubim.
HE is the very center of the Camp of Israel. The Sanctuary of Sinai was
to be built so MOST BLESSED ALMIGHTY ONE could dwell withIN. This is
the desire of GOD for us today -- that HE be FIRST and the very CENTER
of our lives. The REDEEMER, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL desires to be at
home within these tabernacles of flesh and to permeate our beings with
HIS PRESENCE!

. . . to be continued


Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Eternal is YOUR power, O LORD, YOU are mighty to save. In lovingkindness
YOU sustain the living; in the multitude of YOUR mercies YOU preserve
all. YOU uphold the falling, heal the sick; bring freedom to the
captives and keep faith with YOUR children in death as in life. Who is
like YOU, ALMIGHTY GOD, AUTHOR of life and death, SOURCE of salvation?
Praised are YOU, MOST HOLY ONE, WHO has implanted within us immortal
life.


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.


Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/
<http://delrifkah.homestead.com/>

Thought FOR TODAY



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
You don't know where your shadow will fall.

CLEANSING POWER
"How can a young man cleanse his way and keep pure? -- By holding to
YOUR WORD." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Paul was able to prove to the Jews around the world that the LORD
MESSIAH YESHUA was actually the fulfillment of MESSIANIC Prophecy by
using the HOLY scriptURES of the Jews as all the proof he needed: "Then
Paul, as his custom was, went in to them, and for three Sabbaths
reasoned with them from the scriptURES, explaining and demonstrating
that the CHRIST had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying,
'This JESUS WHOM I preach to you is the CHRIST.'" [Acts 17. 2 - 3]

Today as well, when we search the LIFE-GIVING scriptURES for
understanding, we find it sufficient to answer all the complex and
difficult questions that come up in our lives, and especially as it
pertains to our relationship with ALMIGHTY GOD: "For whatever things
were written before were written for our learning, that we through the
patience and comfort of the scriptURES might have hope." [Romans 15. 4]
And again the Apostle Paul said: "Now to HIM WHO is able to establish
you according to my gospel and the preaching of JESUS CHRIST, according
to the revelation of the mystery kept secret since the world began, but
now has been made manifest, and by the prophetic scriptURES has been
made known to all nations, according to the commandment of the
EVERLASTING GOD, for obedience to the faith--to GOD, alone wise, be
glory through JESUS CHRIST forever. Amen" [Romans 16. 25 - 27]

The power of the WRITTEN WORD is that they provide proof of our need for
the SAVIOUR that OMNIPOTENT ONE has provided for us to accomplish what
no man is able to accomplish, and that is to remove the sin problem
from the Saints. When YESHUA ha'MASHIACH was asked about salvation, HE
clearly stated that salvation is impossible for man to accomplish for
himself. "When HIS disciples heard it, they were greatly astonished,
saying, 'Who then can be saved?' But JESUS looked at them and said to
them, "With men this is impossible, but with GOD all things are
possible." [Matthew 19. 25 - 26]

It is only through these HOLY WRITINGS that we find the comprehensive
plan GREAT GOD OF HOSTS revealed, and His requirements for our lives.
Paul's advice to Timothy is appropriate for the saints of GOD MOST
HIGH today. "But you must continue in the things which you have learned
and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that
from childhood you have known the HOLY scriptURES, which are able to
make you wise for salvation through faith which is in CHRIST JESUS." [2
Timothy 3. 14 - 15]

Since the LORD GOD has magnified HIS WORD above HIS NAME
[Psalms/Tehillym 138. 2], we are to search the revitalizing scriptURES
to find GOD'S wonderful plan of salvation. As LORD & KING, the
GREAT LOVER of our souls was willing to die on that rugged, merciless
cross to provide so great a plan. Thus, we must not mistake sincerity
for truth!


Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Grant, O LORD, that when the time of our departure comes, we may look
back without sorrow upon the life we leave, and with trust in YOUR mercy
enter that life which YOU have prepared for the righteous, Amen.
Celebrating the gaiety and festivities of Israel's 62nd Independence
Day. (Yom ha'Atzma'ut – Iyar 6, April 20th this year instead
of the original May 14)


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.

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<http://delrifkah.homestead.com/>

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<http://groups.yahoo.com/group/delrifkah/>

End-time Events: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/Facepage.html
<http://delrifkah.homestead.com/Facepage.html>

Please visit our web page for teachings on Bible texts and subjects.

Also notice the section showing the disparity between the Holy Bible and
the Muslim Koran (Quran).

The newest section is our thought by thought study through the Bible.
Having completed the Torah (books of Moses), and the New Testament, we
are now going through the book of; [1 Samuel].

Thought FOR TODAY



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Man's way leads to a hopeless end - GOD'S way leads to an endless hope.

DISCERNING FALSE PROPHETS
"And should you ask yourselves, 'How can we know that the word was not
spoken by the LORD?' -- IF the prophet speaks in the NAME of the LORD
and the oracle does not come true, that oracle was not spoken by the
LORD; the prophet has uttered it presumptuously; do not stand in dread
(be afraid) of him." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 18. 21 - 22 Tanakh, Torah]

The test a true prophet of the LIVING LORD is to consider what they say.
Do they call everyone to repent of their evil ways and doings and turn
wholeheartedly back to ALMIGHTY GOD? The MOST HOLY ONE said, "IF they
had stood in MY counsel, let them announce MY words to MY people, then
they would have turned them from their evil ways and from the wicked
acts they are doing." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 23. 22 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Because they seek to entice you away from the LORD your GOD, the penalty
for a false prophet was death. "Do not assent or give heed to him. Show
him no pity or compassion, and do not shield him; but take his life. Let
your hand be the first against him to put him to death, and the hand of
the rest of the people thereafter. Stone him to death, for he sought to
make you stray from the LORD your GOD, WHO brought you out of the land
of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thus all Israel will hear and be
afraid, and such evil things will not be done again in your midst."
[Deuteronomy (Devarim) 13. 9 - 12 Tanakh, Nevi'im] To our shame and
ultimate ruin, we have accepted and honored the false teachers instead
of following the ALMIGHTY'S commands to destroy evil from among us.
This is bringing GOD'S just wrath upon the whole world.

The testing of a prophet should never be based entirely on his ability
to perform signs and wonders; but on the message he speaks. "If there
appears among you a prophet or a dream-diviner and he gives you a sign
or a wonder, saying, 'Let us follow and worship another god' - whom you
have not experienced - even if the sign or wonder that he named to you
comes true, you shall not heed or listen to the words of that prophet or
that dream-diviner. For the LORD your GOD is testing you to see whether
you really love the LORD your GOD with all your heart and with all your
soul." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 13. 2 - 4 Tanakh, Torah]

The absolute harmony of the prophet's message and deeds with the
revealed WORD OF GOD, and the wholehearted commitment to the HOLY ONE
HIMSELF, is an immediate test. His inward attitude will be expressed
and he will walk after the LORD in fear and reverence, keep HIS
commandments, and obey HIM - serving the LORD and clinging to HIS
promises. "Follow none but the LORD your GOD, and revere none but HIM;
observe HIS commandments alone, and heed only HIS orders; worship none
but HIM, and hold fast to HIM." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 13. 5 Tanakh,
Torah] Then, it will be well with our souls.


Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
O GOD, keep my tongue from evil and my lips from speaking guild. Be my
SUPPORT when grief silences my voice, and my COMFORT when woe bends my
spirit. Plant humility in my soul, and strengthen my heart with perfect
faith in YOU. Help me to be strong in trials and temptations and to be
humble always before YOU, my STRONG-TOWER. Guide me by the LIGHT of YOUR
counsel, and let me ever find rest in YOU – my ROCK and my REDEEMER.
Praised be the LORD GOD ETERNAL to WHOM all praise is due for ever and
ever. Amen!


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is praying for the return of Messiah
Jesus and His Kingdom.


Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/
<http://delrifkah.homestead.com/>