Delrifkah: HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY.

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Doing the impossible just takes a smidgen longer. 

SILENCING THE FOOLISH 
"For this is the will of GOD, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men." [1 Peter 2. 15] 

Egotistical and arrogant foolishness are the humanistic, blasphemous attacking criticisms that are against GOD’S HOLY WORD and HIS people. "Professing to be wise, they became fools." [Romans 1. 22] "HE WHO is enthroned in heaven laughs; the LORD mocks and ridicules them." [Psalms (Tehillym) 2. 4 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Yes, the wicked man schemes against righteousness — but "the LORD laughs at him, for HE knows that his day will come." [Psalms (Tehillym) 37. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Thus, the best way to silence foolish men, is by doing good. 

"When you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before GOD." [1 Peter 2. 20] "For it is better, if it is the will of GOD, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil." [1 Peter 3. 17] "Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of GOD commit their souls to HIM in doing good, as to a faithful CREATOR." [1 Peter 4. 19] "Shun evil and do good, and you shall abide forever." [Psalms (Tehillym) 37. 27 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA is the greatest, most unsurpassed EXAMPLE of this for "when HE was reviled, He did not revile in return; when HE suffered, HE did not threaten, but committed HIMSELF to HIM WHO judges righteously." [1 Peter 2. 23] "HE was oppressed and HE was afflicted, yet HE was submissive, HE did not open HIS mouth; like a sheep being led to slaughter, like a ewe, dumb before those who shear her, HE did not open HIS mouth." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 53. 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Of course, everyone has the right to reject every argument and even ridicule such a life, but they must eventually come to see its sure foundation. "When they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify GOD in the day of visitation." [1 Peter 2. 12] "Do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices GOD is well pleased." [Hebrews 13. 16] 

The LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH bid those who would — "follow ME." Furthermore, it is "the will of GOD" that we identify ourselves with our wonderful LORD by "doing good" as we emulate our HEAVENLY FATHER. And when the GOOD SHEPHERD, the OVERSEER of believers appears, those who know HIM will be glorified. When we are sure of our FOUNDATION, we have little to fear and tough times are nowhere near as tough as without HIM. Such wonderful joy and abounding hope we have! 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
O GOD, grant that I may understand my duty to YOU and others. May my life be a sanctification of YOUR HOLY NAME. Let me not be discouraged by the sneers of the cynical, or dismayed by the attacks of the hostile. Grant me the courage to proclaim YOUR MOST PRECIOUS NAME. Strengthen me, O FATHER, when I am weak; help me to hasten the day when all mankind shall be joined in fellowship, and acknowledge YOU as their GOD, LORD, REDEEMER, and FATHER. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in YOUR sight, O LORD, my ROCK and my STRENGTH. 
Man is given the choice of how he will 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. If only we could see the path as OMNISCIENT GOD has always seen it, we would have selected it as well. 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 our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
How extraordinary — life, real life  is about death.  Life is about being separated from what we want and being connected to what GOD wants. 

GOD’S MINISTERING SPIRITS     
"HE guards the feet of HIS faithful, but the wicked shall perish in darkness — for by strength no man shall prevail." [1 Samuel (Shemuel Alef) 2. 9 Tanakh, Nevi’im]  "For HE shall give HIS angels charge over you wherever you go.  In their hands they will carry you, lest you dash your foot on a stone." [Psalms (Tehillym) 91. 11 – 12 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The merciful hands of an ULTIMATELY TRIUMPHANT GOD created "an innumerable company of angels" [Hebrews 12. 22], as referred to many times in both the OLD & NEW COVENANTS.  Some have reported seeing heavenly angels, or at least recognized them as such.  We may even "have unwittingly entertained angels" [Hebrews 12. 2], for they can assume the appearance of men on occasion, but normally they are invisible to the human eye. 

Nevertheless, they are there!  Furthermore, they are "ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation." [Hebrews 1. 14]  The MERCIFUL ONE has given them charge over us — that is, over each believer that "dwells in the secret place of the MOST HIGH." [Psalms/Tehillym 91. 1]  They "excel in strength, who do HIS WORD, heeding the VOICE of HIS WORD." [Psalms/Tehillym 103. 20] 

In respect to angelic ministry to believers, the diversity of GOD’S commandments is  extensive. "The ANGEL OF THE LORD camps around those who fear HIM and delivers them...You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra; you will trample underfoot the young lion and the asps." [Psalms (Tehillym) 34.7 & 91. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

In addition to the physical protection, the angelic ministries help guide and encourage.  And, when the believer dies, angels translate their spirit to the LORD’S PRESENCE.  "The beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom." [Luke 16. 22]  We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the LORD." [2 Corinthians 5. 8]  We can look forward to meeting and thanking them personally as we come to understand better all their ministries on our behalf during our lifetime.  They are earnestly concerned with our salvation and spiritual progress, "things which angels desire to look into." [1 Peter 1. 12]  Ultimately, "when the SON OF MAN comes in HIS glory HE will bring, and all the holy angels with HIM" [Matthew 25. 31] when HE judges the world in righteousness. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  CHRISTians also suffer because they are part of a fallen world.  The whole creation is groaning and creaking, longing for the day when everything will be redeemed and made anew.  All kinds of crazy and cruel things are happening and we are not in an airtight capsule in the middle  We are a part of it and we will suffer with it.  Whatever GOD allows, glorify HIM by your steadfast commitment to HIM.  Continue to praise our LORD, the EVERLASTING KING, HELPER, SAVIOR and SHIELD for HIS loving-kindness is mighty over us.  
  Please Note:  Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Most regrettable, we live in a world where anything goes — but NOTHING satisfies. How very dark it is without GOD’S amazing light in one’s heart! 

LABOR – GOD’S GIFT      
"There is nothing worthwhile for a man but to eat and drink, and that his soul should enjoy good in his labor.  And even that, I noted, comes from the hand of GOD...it is a gift of GOD." [Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 2. 24; 3. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

There are many people today who feel that having to work for a living is an imposition, and take advantage of others by living off society.  Since they were brought into this world through no choice of their own, they surmise that the world owes them a living…or so they think.  However, work is not a punishment for sin, it is a blessing from the ALL-KNOWING CREATOR.

Although GOD did "curse" the ground because of sin, it was for man’s own good and in his best interest.  ELOHIYM told Adam, "Cursed is the ground for your sake." [Genesis /Bereshith 3. 17]  It would require "the sweat of your face" [Genesis/Bereshith 3. 19] before man could eat his bread; and even then it would be "in toil (sorrow) you shall eat of it all the days of your life." [Genesis/Bereshith 3. 17] 

Work itself, however, is not a punishment since even before Adam sinned, the LOVING CREATOR had given him the responsibility in the Garden to Eden "to tend and keep it." [Genesis/Bereshith 2. 15]   Furthermore, we will be working in the New Earth in the coming ages as we are told that "HIS servants shall serve HIM" [Revelation 22. 3], however, there will not be any remnant of sin there at all. 

Work, therefore, is a blessing when one sees it as a "gift of GOD."  If we see it only as grinding toil and hardship, then it can indeed be "in sorrow."  Therefore, the LORD Y’SHUA bids us, "Come to ME, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." [Matthew 11. 28] 

"If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat." [2 Thessalonians 3. 10]   Moreover, if working for a living encourages each of us to come to MESSIAH Y’SHUA for salvation and peace of soul, then it truly is "for our sake" that GOD’S curse was pronounced on the ground.  For labor to be a source of pleasure, instead of sorrow, the Apostle Paul states well, "Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the LORD and not to men, knowing that from the LORD you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the LORD CHRIST." [Colossians 3. 23 – 24] 

May LORD your GOD bless you in all the work of your hand that you do.  Be wise, serve the LORD and fear HIM. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  As we bid farewell to Sabbath, our prayer is that GOD, WHO'S PRESENCE dwells within us, bless you abundantly and guard you, our dear ones in the coming week.  May some of the sweetness of Sabbath be present throughout each day so they are filled with love and unselfishness, so that happiness and contentment may abide in our homes. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Courage does not always roar; sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, “I will try again tomorrow.” [Talmud] 

MILK OR MEAT     
"For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line; here a little, there a little. For with stammering lips and another tongue HE will speak to this people (Israel)." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 28. 10 - 11 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

The setting of this unusual passage is most sobering. Both the people and their priests in Israel’s Northern Kingdom (Ephraim) were in gross rebellion and drunken disobedience to the LORD. They were even ridiculing GOD’S prophets who were trying to call them back, complaining that they were being treated like immature children, saying — Are you presuming to teach us as you would teach weaned infants, line by line, and rule after rule? 

The LORD GOD responded that HE would use people of another tongue to come in and teach them what they refused to learn from HIM.  In other words, the Gentiles will teach the Jews "In the Law it is written — With men of other tongues and other lips I will speak to this people; and yet, for all that, they will not hear ME — says the LORD." [1 Corinthians 14. 21]  The precepts the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL had been trying to teach HIS people would have provided them true rest and refreshment, but now learning these lessons would prove to be their undoing.  What should have been a blessing to them would become their condemnation. 

How very urgent and desperately CHRIST-like-ones today need to heed these same words!  They profess to believe GOD’S HOLY WORD, but they only study it superficially, if at all, then compromise its doctrines and do not obey its instructions.  "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of GOD; and you have come to need milk and not solid food.  For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe." [Hebrews 5. 12 - 13] 

Most CHRISTians are exactly like the Corinthians, still "carnal...babes in CHRIST." [1 Corinthians 3. 1]  Therefore, it really is necessary for their teachers to bring the WORD OF GOD to them "precept upon precept, line upon line, little by little ."  

May each of us boldly, and in strength of soul, continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST [2 Peter 3. 18], then grow on to perfection in maturity of understanding of the teachings of the MASTER. 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Extolled and holy is the precious name of GOD throughout the world which HE has created, and which HE governs according to HIS righteous will.  HE is just in all HIS ways, and wise are all HIS decrees.  May HIS Kingdom come and HIS will be done in all the earth.  Praised be the LORD of life, the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE for evermore.  
Have a blessed and joyous CHRIST-filled day! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Imagined or pretentious intelligence is a fitting companion for natural idiocy. The wise understand, fools do not. 

NATIONS OF FOOLS      
"For the wrath of GOD is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness." [Romans 1. 18] 

Mankind is without excuse, although they knew the MIGHTY CREATOR, they refused to glorify HIM as GOD SUPREME and are unthankful, futile in their thoughts, obscure in heart, "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.  For this reason GOD gave them up to vile passions.  For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature.  Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.  And even as they did not like to retain GOD in their knowledge, GOD gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of GOD, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the Righteous Judgment of GOD, that those who practice such things are worthy of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them." [Romans 1. 20 - 32] 

The WONDROUS LORD GOD has such a high view of sex that HE will not permit it to be defiled, as man persists in doing so openly today.  There are specific sexual relationships and practices the RIGHTEOUS HOLY ONE has forbidden. [see Leviticus/Vayikra 18]  Still further, there are those practices the SOVEREIGN KING considers to be abominations (intensely loathsome, detestable, shameful offensive).  "YEHOWAH spoke to Moses saying: Speak to the Israelite people and say to them — I YEHOWAH am your GOD.  Do not lie with a male as one lies with a woman; it is an abomination (also women with women).  Do not have carnal relations with any beast and defile yourself thereby; and let no woman lend herself to a beast to mate with it; it is perversion." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 18. 1 - 2, 22 - 23 Tanakh, Torah]   "If a man lies with a male as one lies with a woman, the two of them have done an abhorrent thing; they shall be put to death — their bloodguilt is upon them (including women with women)." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 20. 13 Tanakh, Torah]  

There is anguish, trouble, sorrow and woe to the nations that legalize and allow wrong sexual practices.  As the ALMIGHTY, FAITHFUL & TRUE ONE declared, "Do not defile yourselves in any of those ways, for it is by such that the nations that I am casting out before you defiled themselves.  Thus the land became defiled; and I called it to account for its iniquity, and the land spewed out its inhabitants.  But you must keep MY laws and MY rules, and you must not do any of those abhorrent things, neither the citizens nor the stranger who resides among you; for all those abhorrent things were done by the people who were in the land before you, and the land became defiled.  So let not the land spew you out for defiling it, as it spewed out the nations that came before you.  All who do any of those abhorrent things — such persons shall be cut off from their people.  You shall keep MY charge not to engage in any of the abhorrent practices that were carried on before you, and you shall not defile yourselves through them:  I YEHOWAH am your GOD." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 20. 24 - 30 Tanakh, Torah]   "THOSE WHO ARE SEXUALLY IMMORAL SHALL HAVE THEIR PART IN THE LAKE THAT BURNS WITH FIRE AND BRIMSTONE, WHICH IS THE SECOND DEATH." [Revelation 21. 8] 

We are commanded to "warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.  See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all." [1 Thessalonians 5. 14 - 15] 

America (and most, if not all, other countries) are on a collision coarse with the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE for they are abhorrently defiant of GOD'S WRITTEN WORD thus we have defiled the land by doing what the HOLY ONE warned against.  If we do not change our ways, we will certainly face the wrath of SOVEREIGN OMNISCIENT CREATOR as HE brings the "Great Tribulation" on the whole world around us for the unrepentant and stubborn hearts who knowingly have rejected GOD'S LIFE-GIVING WORD regarding sexual practices.  Turn to HIM now before it is too late. . . HE is willing to forgive those who repent! 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Welcome Sabbath — Queen of the week!  Sabbath of Yitro – “Jethro” [Reading: Exodus 18:1 - 20:23; Isaiah 6:1 – 7:6, 9; 5:6-7; Matthew 19:16-26] 
  We thank YOU, GREAT & MIGHTY GOD for by YOUR mercies and grace we were taught the sanctity of the weekly day of rest, Sabbath is the sign of the tie that binds us to YOU.  Keep us ever grateful and grant us YOUR perfect rest. 
  Please, LORD purify our spirits that we may continually be conscious of YOUR presence.  Help us to live so that when we are gathered to our final harvest, many shall rise up and call us blessed.  Continue to bestow YOUR benediction upon us.  Teach us to seek YOU ever more within the sanctuary of our souls, within the tabernacle of YOUR world, and in the congregation of YOUR worshipers, Amen.  
  Enjoy a precious day of rest with your family and friends. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.
 

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Money cannot buy happiness, but it sure makes misery easier to live with. 

HEAVENLY PEACEMAKER      
"For HE is not a man, as I am, that I may answer HIM, and that we should go to court together. Nor is there any mediator between us, who may lay his hand on us both." [Job (Iyowb) 9. 32 - 33 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Because of his much sufferings, Job was utterly confused by the silence of the ALMIGHTY, WHOM he had loved and served faithfully all his life.  Job therefore longed to somehow come before the CREATOR and plea his case before the MIGHTY JUDGE.  This was impossible, for GOD is GOD and not a man, as was Job.  Therefore Job knew that he was greatly in need of a GO-BETWEEN WHO could come between himself and EL SHADDAI. 

Now, there is ONE SUPREMELY WONDERFUL PEACEMAKER, "For there is one GOD and one MEDIATOR between GOD and men, the MAN CHRIST JESUS, WHO gave HIMSELF a ransom for all, to be testified in due time." [1 Timothy 2. 5 - 6]  The ransom HE paid was HIS OWN life, allowing HIS blood to be shed which HE used to atone for all our sins when "HE entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption." [Hebrews 9. 11 - 12] 

The LORD Y’SHUA, the PERFECT GOD/MAN, is completely able to bridge the wide gorge between GOD and man.  To better understand the action of a MEDIATOR or ADVOCATE , he is one who is a supporter, backer, sponsor, enthusiast.  When the Devil, "the accuser of our brethren" [Revelation 12. 10] — accuses us of sin before our GOD day and night, as he did to Job, our GREAT INTERCESSOR defends us.  John wrote these encouraging words, "My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an ADVOCATE with the FATHER, JESUS CHRIST the righteous.  And HE HIMSELF is the PROPITIATION (atonement, payment, equalizer) for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world." [1 John 2. 1 - 2]  "Therefore HE is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to GOD through HIM, since HE always lives to make intercession for them." [Hebrews 7. 25] 

Best of all, this salvation is a Free-Gift, ours for the taking.  It is a gift we don’t deserve, we can never earn, and can never pay off.  It is something that GOD freely decided to give to human beings who were lost in sin, at enmity (hostility, opposition, resentment) with HIM.  Out of HIS great compassion the MERCIFUL ONE gives us newness of life.  Won’t you call on the LOVING MASTER today, HE is waiting to hear from you, and so longs to come along side in fellowship and friendship.  There is no other LOVER of our soul so devoted like Y’SHUA, the RISEN SAVIOR. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Exalted and hallowed be GOD'S greatness in this world of HIS creation.  May YOUR will be fulfilled and YOUR sovereignty revealed in the days of our lifetime and the life of the whole House of Israel.  May YOU be blessed forever, even to all eternity.  May YOU, MOST HOLY ONE, be blessed, praised & honored, extolled & glorified, adored & exalted above all else.  Blessed are YOU beyond all blessings & hymns, praises & consolations that may be uttered in this world.  May peace abundant descend from heaven with life for us and all Israel, Amen. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
 If you don’t know where you are going, you might end up somewhere else. 

TREE OF LIFE     
"Everyone who is CALLED (the root) by MY NAME, whom I have CREATED (trunk) for MY glory; I have FORMED (branch) him, yes, I have made him." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 43. 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im]   "For thus said the LORD, the CREATOR OF HEAVEN WHO alone is GOD, WHO formed (branch) the earth and MADE (fruit) it, WHO alone established (reproduced) it — HE did not create it a waste, but formed it to be inhabited: I am the LORD, and there is none else." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 45. 18 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

In the beginning ELOHIYM created and placed within the Garden of Eden a Tree of Life.  This Tree was literal with roots, trunk, branches, leaves and fruit.  And, it was made available for mans enjoyment of its essence, but only while he remained innocent.  It indicated that ELOHIYM originally intended for man to live forever in perfect fellowship with our loving EL SHADDAI.  

When sin entered the world, however, the Tree of Life ('etz hayyim) was withheld from mankind as ELOHIYM did not desire for man to live in this fallen condition eternally.  Yet, the original intention of the Tree of Life was still desired by YEHOWAH and HE offers us eternal life that is provided in HIS "Plan of Salvation" secured by Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH.  This gift is free and made available to us in HIS COVENANT as recorded in the Law, Prophets, Psalms and Gospel messages. 

In the same sense mankind was given the mission of passing on to others the Plan of Salvation, man entered in to the purpose of the Tree of Life; and that harmony is seen in the works of the ministry: 

The ROOT takes hold when we are called (Hebrew: qura'):  "For you are a holy people to the LORD your GOD; of all the peoples on earth the LORD your GOD chose you to be HIS treasured people." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 7. 6 Tanakh, Torah]  "You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, HIS OWN special people, that you may proclaim the praises of HIM WHO called you out of darkness into HIS marvelous light." [1 Peter 2. 9] 

The TRUNK establishes the firm foundation and HE WHO created (Hebrew: bara') determined our purpose: "GOD created man in HIS IMAGE, in the IMAGE OF GOD HE created him; male and female HE created them." [Genesis (Bereshith) 1. 27 Tanakh, Torah]   "For we are HIS workmanship, created in CHRIST JESUS for good works, which GOD prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." [Ephesians 2. 10] 

As the BRANCHES form and grow, we are conformed (Hebrew: yatsar) to HIS likeness:  "MY people, MY chosen, this people I have formed for MYSELF; that they might declare MY praise." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 43. 21 Tanakh, Nevi'im]   "Whom HE foreknew, HE also predestined to be conformed to the image of HIS SON." [Romans 8. 29]   "The LORD MESSIAH YESHUA will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to HIS glorious body, according to the working by which HE is able even to subdue all things to HIMSELF." [Philippians 3. 21] 

The FRUITS in our life are to show forth the goodness of CREATOR GOD for HE made (Hebrew: 'asah) us for HIS glory — "I will look with favor upon you, and make you fruitful and multiply you; and I will confirm and maintain MY covenant with you." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 26. 9 Tanakh, Torah]  "And I MYSELF will gather the remnant of MY flock from all the lands...and they shall be fruitful and increase." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 23. 3 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

"GOD, WHO is rich in mercy, because of HIS great love with which HE loved us... made us alive together with MESSIAH (“by grace you have been saved”), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in CHRIST JESUS, that in the ages to come HE might show the exceeding riches of HIS grace in HIS kindness toward us in CHRIST JESUS." [Ephesians 2. 4 - 7]   "Therefore by HIM let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to GOD, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to HIS NAME." [Hebrews 13. 15] 

In response to our DEVOTED LORD GOD'S great love, we should willingly "reproduce" just as the MASTER DESIGNER formed and created and commissioned us to do — "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the NAME OF THE FATHER and of the SON and of the HOLY SPIRIT — teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen" [Matthew 28. 19 - 20] 

The TREE OF LIFE will again be made available, "to him who overcomes I will give to eat from the Tree of Life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of GOD." [Revelation 2. 7]  And John describes for us what he saw in the Holy City. . . the New Jerusalem which is on the New Earth — "And he showed me a pure river of Water of Life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the Throne of GOD and of the LAMB. In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the Tree of Life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations." [Revelation 22. 1 - 2]  The ALPHA and the OMEGA promises, "I will give of the fountain of the Water of Life freely to him who thirsts." [Revelation 21. 6]   Yes, "There is a river whose streams gladden the City of GOD, the Holy Dwelling-place of the MOST HIGH." [Psalms (Tehillym) 46. 4 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Remember as you sow the seed of faith — "the fruit of the righteous is a Tree of Life, and a wise man is the one who wins souls." [Proverbs (Mishle) 11. 30 Tanakh, Kethuvim]   Be found faithful in doing your assigned task, it will be worth it all when we see Y’SHUA, our long-awaited MESSIAH! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Have a Happy Tu b’Shvat!   Starting at sundown tonight, Tu b'Shvat [Tu (15) b' (of) Shvat] — the Jewish Holiday of the Trees is celebrated – it was established for calculating the age of the tree for the purpose of tithing fruit.  Tu b'Shvat is a festival that recalls the praise to the MOST HOLY LORD GOD for the Land of Israel, for on this day the strength of the soil of the land is renewed.   With reference to the fruits of the trees and the produce of the soil, the TORAH praises the Land of Israel:  "For the LORD your GOD is bringing you into a good land, a land of streams and springs and fountains issuing from plain and hill; a land of wheat and barley, of vines, figs, and pomegranates, a land of olive trees and honey; a land where you may eat food without scarcity, where you will lack nothing; a land whose rocks are iron and from whose hills you can mine copper. When you have eaten your fill, give thanks to the LORD your GOD for the good land which HE has given you.  Take care lest you forget the LORD your GOD and fail to keep HIS Commandments, HIS Rules and HIS Laws, which I enjoin upon you today." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 8:7-11 Tanakh, Torah]  
  May you have a heart to know YEHOWAH, that HE is the LORD of your life; oh, return to HIM with your whole heart.  May each of you be delivered from trouble and harm, or strengthened through it.  Heal us O LORD, make us righteous in YOUR sight.  
  Though still in the middle of the bleak embrace of winter, the gentle murmur of the awakening spring begins its hidden work.  In the core and the arterial network of the trees, silently and softly, hidden from the casual view, the new sap flows announcing the coming of spring.  
  At the time of the final redemption, not only will people experience the ultimate blessings and prosperity, but the actual soil of the Land will enjoy these benefits.   The prophet Amos says the Land of Israel will be so prosperous and the crops will grow so bountifully, that the seasons will overlap.  There will be excessive produce, and the mountains will literally drip with the juice of its fruit.  The holy land will be showered with supreme blessing!  The holiday of Tu b'Shevat celebrates the earth and produce of the blessed Holy Land.  The TORAH has compared man to a tree of the field — therefore this day also recalls the DIVINE judgment upon man. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Humility is being prepared to serve. Pride is not being willing to serve anyone — totally immersing oneself in themselves, wrapped in the ostentatious (pretentious, brazen, showy) garment of self-indulgence. 

BLESSED HOPE 
"Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with GOD through our LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of GOD. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope." [Romans 5. 1 - 4] 

Hope is a much needed ingredient for living in this world. In Hebrew there are several types of hope: "yachal" mean to trust, wait, tarry or stay — "betach" is confident expectation, safe, secure, sure — "tiqvah" translates a longing — "miqveh" means confidence, abiding (also a bath or pond of water). Saints of GOD MOST HIGH have the confident assurance of the hope of a glorious inheritance awaiting them. "Therefore my heart rejoices, my whole being exults; and my flesh rests in secure hope." [Psalms (Tehillym) 16. 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Good works only produce a false hope when one thinks they will earn the rich reward of a Heavenly Home. Although GOD’S Law is perfect, it cannot make a person righteous, for no one is able of keeping the Law. There is hope however, and that hope is faith and trust in the LORD Y’SHUA, HE is the believer’s HOPE OF SALVATION; for MESSIAH in you is the HOPE of glory. [Colossians 1. 27] 

This HOPE that is in you is our SOLID FOUNDATION WHO gives us the needed confidence to trust expectantly. "The LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH HIMSELF, and our GOD and FATHER, WHO has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace." [2 Thessalonians 2. 16] "For the Law made nothing perfect; on the other hand, there is the bringing in of a BETTER HOPE, through which we draw near to GOD." [Hebrews 7. 19] 

We are also given a blessed hope, by GOD‘S grace, bringing us to salvation teaching us that by "denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our GREAT GOD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST, WHO gave HIMSELF for us, that HE might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for HIMSELF HIS own special people, zealous for good works." [Titus 2. 12 - 14] 

Furthermore, we receive the LIVING HOPE in which we can greatly rejoice, "Blessed be the GOD and FATHER of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, WHO according to HIS abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of JESUS CHRIST from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of GOD through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." [1 Peter 1. 3 - 5] 

"Thus GOD, determining to show more abundantly to the heirs of promise the immutability of HIS counsel, confirmed it by an oath, that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for GOD to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us. This hope we have as an ANCHOR of the soul, both sure and steadfast." [Hebrews 6. 17 - 19] 

"Blessed is he who trusts in the LORD, and whose HOPE is the LORD alone." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 17. 7 Tanakh, Nevi’im] Our WONDERFUL SAVIOR not only gives us a better hope, a good hope, a blessed hope, and a living hope, but also our hope centered on the eternal future with the KING OF GLORY. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
As we bid farewell to Sabbath, may the HOLY ONE bless and fill you with HIS Holy Commandments and call us to occupy ourselves with the LIFE-GIVING WORDS of TORAH. And, may your ever-growing faith grant you the privilege to witness and experience the marvelous miracle of being delivered from the yoke of slavery to sin. We encourage you to take some of Sabbath’s sweetness with you each coming day. 
"Tov Shavua — Have a good week — a week of peace...may gladness reign and joy increase!" Let not your heart be troubled, glorify the LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA, the KING of the Universe and allow HIS SPIRIT to comfort and transform your life. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Gentleness (Hebrew: ‘anvah) never closes a door nor finds one it cannot open. 

WRITINGS OF GOD     
"The tablets were ELOHIYM’S work, and the writing was ELOHIYM’S writing, incised upon the tablets." [Exodus (Shemot) 32. 16 Tanakh, Torah] 

This is the first time the word writing was used in HOLY WRIT and it is speaking of "the writing of GOD" not something devised by men.  The reference is to the two TABLETS OF THE LAW which are known as the Ten Statements,  Ten Words, or Ten Commandments "written with the Finger of GOD" [Exodus/Shemot 31. 18], and rewritten by GOD on a second set of stone tablets to replace the first that were shattered by Moses. [Exodus/Shemot 34. 1] 

The Ten Statements revealed by the HOLY ONE to Moses at Mount Sinai and given to the Hebrews are indeed commandments; and they are part of 613 commandments in the TORAH (FIVE BOOKS OF MOSES) — in fact, each of the 613 commandments fits into one of ten categories of commandments represented by the Ten Statements.  The Law means more than prohibitions — it includes obligations as well.  Of the 613, there are 365 negative commands and 248 positive commands.  As with all other aspects of the Law, the intention in which the act is carried out is also critical. 

All SCRIPTURE is DIVINELY inspired, but the Ten Commandments were DIVINELY inscribed!  This TESTIMONY of their unique importance is a serious sobering condemnation of all who ignore them or distort their meaning, including the fourth statement with reference to the Six Days of Creation. [Exodus/Shemot 20. 11] 

The NEW COVENANT also records a WRITING  of the Apostle Paul which is of even greater personal significance:  "You are manifestly an epistle of CHRIST...written not with ink, but with the SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart." [2 Corinthians 3. 3]  This engraving by the Finger of GOD is an inner confidence inscribed in the heart by the SPIRIT OF GOD!  "This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the LORD — I will put MY Laws into their hearts, and in their minds I will write them." [Hebrews 10. 16] 

This extraordinarily amazing WRITING OF GOD’S Law in our hearts and minds has been accomplished because the LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA came "not to destroy, but to fulfill" the Law [Matthew 5. 17], and "has redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us." [Galatians 3. 13]  Now, with the Law in our hearts, we have become epistles (dispatched letters) of the MOST HIGH GOD, "known and read by all men." [2 Corinthians 3. 2] 

The Law written in our hearts will finally be permanently etched there during the Kingdom Age when YEHOWAH will make the Law honorable to all and righteousness will be the identifying factor bringing perfect peace and tranquility. [Isaiah/Yeshayah 42. 21]   It is imperative that the WRITING reads true and clear through our lives in every word and daily action. 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Welcome Sabbath! Sabbath of Beshalach – “When He Sent” [Reading: Exodus 13:17 -17:16; Judges 4:4 – 5:31; Matthew 14:22-33] 
  We thank YOU, GREAT & MIGHTY GOD for by YOUR mercies and grace we were taught the sanctity of the weekly day of rest, Sabbath is the sign of the tie that binds us to YOU.  Keep us ever grateful and grant us YOUR perfect rest. Amen  
  Shabbos calls us to bring the highest moral values to our daily labor and to culminate the workweek with kedushah (holiness), menuchah (rest), and oneg (joy). May GOD, WHOSE grace is irresistible and all sufficient, be glorified. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.


Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
The real art of conversation is not only to say the right thing in the right place, but also to leave unsaid the wrong at a tempting moment. 

DELIBERATE SIN     
"For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries." [Hebrews 10. 26 - 27] 

This is one of the most controversial passages of HOLY SCRIPTURE because of its apparent conflict with passages which teach salvation by grace, entirely apart from the Law or any form of works [Ephesians 2. 8-9; Titus 3. 5] and absolute security in salvation to those who belong to the LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH. [John 10. 28 - 29; Romans 8. 35 - 39]  Y’SHUA commanded: "Teach them to observe all that I have commanded you." [Matthew 28. 20] 

All unintentional sins in the OLD COVENANT have a covering, but no intentional sin is covered. [Leviticus/Vayikra 4 - 5]   And, in the NEW COVENANT, there are many passages that warn against deliberate acts of sin. "Whoever says — I know HIM — and does not keep HIS commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him." [1 John 2. 4]   "To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled.  They profess to know GOD, but in works they deny HIM, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work." [Titus 1. 15 - 16]   "Whoever has been born of GOD does not sin, for HIS seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of GOD.  In this the children of GOD and the children of the devil are manifest: Whoever does not PRACTICE RIGHTEOUSNESS is not of GOD; nor is he who does not love his brother." [1 John 3. 9 - 10] 

There are many "impervious (solid, pure, reliable, trustworthy) texts" on both sides of this question, and since there are no real contradictions in GOD'S HOLY WRITTEN WORD, the LORD must have had a good reason for inspiring this apparent paradox in HIS BOOK.  The misunderstanding is on our part, not on the HOLY SCRIPTURES.  On the one hand, it is vital for every true believer in the LORD Y’SHUA, the ONLY-BEGOTTEN OF THE FATHER to know that they are saved and have eternal life.  "And this is the testimony — that GOD has given us eternal life, and this life is in HIS SON.  He who has the SON has life; he who does not have the SON OF GOD does not have life.  These things I have written to you who believe in the NAME OF THE SON OF GOD, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the NAME OF THE SON OF GOD." [1 John 5. 11 - 13] 

Nonetheless, it is lethally dangerous for a person merely to think he or she is saved when there is no "evidence" of a changed life.   "Let grace be shown to the wicked scoundrel, yet he learns not righteousness, though spared." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 26. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im]   Such SCRIPTURES give sober warning that professing CHRISTians have no basis for any assurance of salvation if they do not obey HIS COMMANDS.   "Now by this we know that we know HIM, IF we keep HIS commandments." [1 John 2. 3]   The LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH stated, "IF you love ME, keep MY commandments." [John 14. 15]   MESSIAH Y’SHUA also said, "IF anyone loves ME, he will keep MY WORD." [John 14. 23]   This is not a command but, it is supportive evidence of our love for HIM. 

Therefore, "Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith.  Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that JESUS CHRIST is in you? — unless indeed you are disqualified." [2 Corinthians 13. 5]  "For IF these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our LORD JESUS CHRIST.  For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.  Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for IF you do these things you will never stumble." [2 Peter 1. 8 - 10]   "For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit." [Luke 6. 43 - 44] 

What kind of fruit is your life producing, manifesting and initiating? 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  As we bid farewell to Shabbat, may the ALMIGHTY ONE, WHO separates the holy from the secular, forgive our sins!  
  In YOUR mercy, O LORD, remember us and all YOUR children as we enter a new week.  O FATHER & REDEEMER, mindful of YOUR Covenant, we pray that YOUR love may never forsake us.  Even as the rainbow recalls this covenant, so may each new day bring to all men the thought of YOUR gracious promise.  Hasten the time when YOUR Law will be written in every heart, from the smallest to the greatest.  Then shall mankind do YOUR will and the reward of righteous service shall be peace.  
  Have a full and richly blessed week!  May the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL bless you abundantly. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
You are not born a winner nor a looser, but you are born a chooser. Choose this day WHOM you will serve, that is the determining factor. 

LIFE IS TERMINAL      
"Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.  For you died, and your life is hidden with CHRIST in GOD.  When MESSIAH, WHO is our life appears, then you also will appear with HIM in glory." [Colossians 3. 2 - 4] 

Looking forward to the time when we shall "always be with the LORD" [1 Thessalonians 4. 17], the Apostle Paul wrote — "For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with CHRIST, which is far better.  Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you." [Philippians 1. 23 - 24] 

The fact, however, is that we can be "with CHRIST" even while still abiding in the flesh, as Paul emphasized.  This is the great principle called positional truth.  Positionally, we are already with Y’SHUA, for that is where GOD sees us and how HE relates to us.  HE has "raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in CHRIST JESUS, that in the ages to come HE might show the exceeding riches of HIS grace." [Ephesians 2. 6 - 7] 

Life is terminal, to live is ultimately to die.  Many people have never figured this out, praising their bodies with exercise — dressing well — but never preparing for real life which is a spiritual future and without a spiritual future — life really makes no sense.  Though some say that an after-life does not make any sense, the fact is that without an on-going life, this life does not make sense!  If you remove GOD and the fear of HIM, what do you have?  You not only have stress, but you are totally ignorant of just how valued you are...for you were created in the image of GOD. [Genesis/Bereshith 1. 27] 

People say there are many ways to GOD, in an ironic way, they are right. . . but the destination the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE makes is determined by HIM; for we shall all stand before the AWESOME GOD OF HEAVEN and give an account for our life and HE will either say "Well done good and faithful servant" [Matthew 25. 21] or "Depart from ME, you cursed, into everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels." [Matthew 25. 41]  YESHUA also addresses the unworthy — "Not everyone who says to ME, 'LORD, LORD' shall enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but he who does the will of MY FATHER in Heaven.  Many will say to ME in that Day, 'LORD, LORD — have we not prophesied in YOUR NAME, cast out demons in YOUR NAME, and done many wonders in YOUR NAME?'  And then I will declare to them, I never knew you; depart from ME, you who practice lawlessness!" [Matthew 7. 21 - 23] 

There is only one SAVIOR, the LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH…the LORD JESUS CHRIST! And, GOD’S laws and physics are exact. . . 2 + 2 = 4 every time.  If some try to make it equal what they want, they will certainly not pass any exam.  So you see, GOD’S physical laws are clear, why not HIS spiritual laws? 

GOD WHO created the world, loves us, gives us what is best for us, has a covenant with us which obligates us to fulfill HIS commandments, deals with us with both justice and mercy.  We are finite; GOD is infinite.  We do not presume to know the whole picture.  We do know based upon our understanding of both the OLD & NEW TESTAMENT and history that GOD has a plan for history and a track record of fulfilling HIS promises — be they for reward or punishment.  We understand that the ALMIGHTY ONE acts in this world with purpose, meaning and good. 

Prayer gives us hope.  Prayer is a means of integrating into ourselves that life has meaning and that we are not alone.  Prayer focuses us on what we want out of life and helps us clarify what is good for us. 

Before we can be raised up with MESSIAH, however, we first must die with HIM.  "I have been crucified with CHRIST; it is no longer I who live, but CHRIST lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the SON OF GOD, who loved me and gave HIMSELF for me." [Galatians 2. 20]  The ETERNAL ONE saw us as buried with MESSIAH when HE was buried, and this is the great truth symbolized in our baptism, "We were buried with HIM through baptism into death, that just as CHRIST was raised from the dead by the glory of the FATHER, even so we also should walk in newness of life." [Romans 6. 4] 

"Now if we died with CHRIST, we believe that we shall also live with HIM, knowing that HE, having been raised from the dead, dies no more.  Death no longer has dominion over HIM." [Romans 6. 8 - 9]   Y’SHUA died for us so our deserved death became HIS substitutionary death, and HIS victorious resurrection becomes our own unmerited deliverance from death in eternal resurrection life.  This is our position now, and our assured everlasting possession then, for we are with the BELOVED MESSIAH, WHO dies no more. 

This is the wonderful doctrine (doctrine means: what you believe and hold to be true), but as we see in HOLY SCRIPTURE, it is the focus for our thoughts, and the most valid incentive for GODly living. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Hear, O Israel: The LORD our GOD, the LORD is ONE.  Praised be HIS NAME WHOSE glorious Kingdom is forever and ever.  Eternal truth it is that HE alone is GOD, and there is none else.  YOUR love has watched over us in the night of oppression; YOUR mercy has sustained us in the hour of trial.  May YOUR Law rule the life of all YOUR children and YOUR truth unite our hearts in fellowship.  Praise to YOU, O LORD, our BLESSED REDEEMER, Amen.    

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.


Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
"Enough" is as good as a feast!  Happy and blessed is the man content with little. 

UNTIL I COME     
"So he (a certain nobleman) called his ten servants and delivered to them ten minas, and said unto them — Do business (occupy) till I come." [Luke 19. 13] 

With this parable, the LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA was trying to teach HIS disciples that they should stay busy using whatever abilities and opportunities they had in the LORD'S service until HE returned.  This practical illustration is also suggested where Paul forewarned Timothy, "No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier." [2 Timothy 2. 4]   Paul is cautioning those who would be "good soldiers of MESSIAH" against becoming involved in the "affairs of the world" if they are really wanting to be pleasing to their COMMANDING OFFICER. 

The LORD JESUS CHRIST says to stay busy with the practical affairs of life until HE returns; then Paul affirms not to get involved with such things.  This is no real contradiction if the motivation is considered.  Whatever may be our vocation in life, as led by the MOST HOLY ONE, we are to perform joyously and all the other daily responsibilities of life diligently and faithfully for HIS sake. 

However, if we allow these things to become an end in themselves or use them for any other purposes than for HIS glory — we are then becoming tangled up in the affairs of this life, which will vanish.  The LORD OF GLORY, blessed be HE , encourages us to "hold fast what you have till I come.  And he who overcomes, and keeps MY works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations." [Revelation 2. 25 - 26]  The LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH desires that we be diligent in whatever HE has called us to do until HE comes; for when HE comes, we will be judged on our faithfulness. 


"Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the LORD comes, WHO will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts.  Then each one's praise will come from GOD." [1 Corinthians 4. 5]   The SON OF MAN took up HIS cross intelligently, voluntarily, deliberately and joyfully because HE knew it was the FATHER’S will.  Taking up our cross is to accept the will of GOD in the same manner as MESSIAH did, fully knowing that it will involve some degree of pain and discomfort as it did for our MASTER.  However, it will be worth it all, the trials of this life will soon be forgotten and perfection will be to the faithful! 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If we spend our time judging others, we make no room for simply loving them.  Remember how surprisingly wondrous is our HEAVENLY FATHER'S patience with us and learn from HIM and do likewise. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
We are all responsible for each other, to think otherwise is a case of mistaken identity. 

THE LAW     
"You shall keep MY Laws and MY judgments, by the pursuit of which man shall live; I am the LORD." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 18. 5 Tanakh, Torah] 

The ALMIGHTY ETERNAL ONE is absolutely holy, a fact heavily emphasized throughout the book of Leviticus.  It is the standard for all those created in HIS IMAGE, and is reemphasized in the NEW COVENANT, "Clearly no one is justified before GOD by the Law, because, the righteous will live by FAITH.  The Law is not based on faith, on the contrary, the man who does these things will live by them." [Galatians 3. 11 - 12] 

The LOVING MASTER redeemed us in order so the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, in order that we might receive the promise of the SPRIT OF GOD by faith.   It is not enough that a man keep most of GOD'S Laws, "For whosoever shall keep the whole Law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all." [James 2. 10]  "For as many as are of the works of the Law are under the curse; for it is written — Cursed is everyone that continues not in all things which are written in the BOOK OF THE LAW, to do them." [Galatians 3. 10] 

"The Law is holy and the commandments holy and just and good." [Romans 7. 12]  However, no human being has ever been able to keep GOD'S Perfect Law, except THE MAN, the LORD JESUS.  "Before YOU, O LORD, no creature lives in righteousness." [Psalms (Tehillym) 143. 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  All are under ALMIGHTY GOD'S righteous condemnation.  "Therefore by the deeds of the Law no flesh will be justified in HIS sight, for by the Law is the knowledge of sin." [Romans 3. 20]  The Law makes us aware of our sin which, in turn, shows our desperate need of a SAVIOR.  "Therefore the Law was our tutor to bring us to MESSIAH that we might be justified by faith." [Galatians 3. 24] 

The widespread delusion that a person can be saved by good works is a very dangerous deception!  Many and dreadfully broad are on the roads to Hell and the Eternal Lake of Fire and they are egotistically arrogant in their supposed goodness. 

The MIGHTY CREATOR HIMSELF had to become a MAN and keep the Law, which MESSIAH Y’SHUA did, to fulfill the Law to be our ADVOCATE before GOD THE FATHER.  Then when HE died, the LORD JESUS "redeemed us from the curse of the Law, being made a curse for us." [Galatians 3. 13]  "Now the righteousness of GOD apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of GOD through faith in MESSIAH Y’SHUA, to all and on all who believe." [Romans 3. 21 - 22]  The RIGHTEOUS LORD Y’SHUA, MESSIAH is our PROPITIATION by HIS atoning blood, through faith, that HE might be "JUST" and the "JUSTIFIER" for those who believe in HIM and follow HIM with their whole being.   And, CHRIST'S righteousness will be accredited to them making us joint-heirs of the Kingdom with the LORD Y’SHUA, our BELOVED REDEEMER. 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Consider your latter end; fear GOD, the HOLY CREATOR, take heed to HIS counsel, seek understanding.

As we bow in adoration before the KING OF GLORY, 
...may ALMIGHTY GOD’S love and peace shine out of each of us
 ...bright enough for all to see
  ...clear enough for all to follow. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
With memories of yesterday and hope for tomorrow, let us live today with eternity in sight. 

IT'S YOUR CHOICE     
"Truly, times of ignorance GOD overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, because HE has appointed a day on which HE will judge the world in righteousness by the MAN whom HE has ordained.  HE has given assurance of this to all by raising HIM (MESSIAH Y’SHUA) from the dead." [Acts 17. 30 - 31] 

The WORD OF GOD describes an appointment that is fixed for each individual.  It could be a "day of dread" or a "day of blessing" for you, what makes it thus is all your choice.  "By the sweat of your brow shall you get bread to eat, until you return to the ground  — for from it you were taken.  For dust you are, and to dust you shall return." [Genesis (Bereshith) 3. 19 Tanakh, Torah]  "YOU will bring me to death, the house appointed for all the living." [Job (Iyowb) 30. 23 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  "As it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment." [Hebrews 9. 27]   Death is a thought that most people put far away from their minds, often preparing more for the day-to-day living, retirement or even a vacation then for the sure fact of their imminent passing.   Death is the surest fact of life and no human contrivance can avoid the appointment with the Angel of Death. 


HOLY SCRIPTURES, however, caution that the believer will face challenges in this life, "No one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this." [1 Thessalonians 3. 3]  Death's appointment should hold no fear for the faithful followers of MESSIAH for we are HIS chosen vessels and parting this life is for our glory and we are assured of that — "For GOD did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our LORD JESUS CHRIST, WHO died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with HIM." [1 Thessalonians 5. 9 - 10] 

The LOVING ALMIGHTY ONE is our "HOPE, our REFUGE in the day of doom and calamity." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 17. 17 Tanakh, Nevi'im]  Nevertheless, the day of our death still holds a moment of precise truth.  Have we lived our lives unto ourselves, or in a way pleasing to the LORD our GOD?  To be ready for our appointment, we must "choose this day WHOM we will serve." [Joshua/Yehoshua 24. 15]   Then continually "abide in HIM; that, when HE shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before HIM at HIS coming." [1 John 2. 28]   For our heart will not condemn us, having confidence toward our RIGHTEOUS & HOLY GOD. [1 John 3. 21]   Ever knowing that "Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the Day of Judgment; because as HE is, so are we in this world." [1 John 4. 17]   May you be a willing vessel of GOD’S light and love to a lost and dying world. 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Birkat HaKohenim – lifting of the hands (uplifted hands is the channel through which DIVINE blessings flow).  
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 & Death, SOURCE of salvation?  Praised are YOU alone, O LORD, WHO has implanted within us immortal life.  Praised are YOU, our REDEEMER, the HOLY ONE of Israel and the joy of the whole earth. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Obstacles are what you see when you take your eyes off the goal (GOD). 

SHADOW OF DEATH     
"May darkness and the deep gloom of the shadow of death reclaim it; may a dark cloud lie over it; may what blackens the day terrify it." [Job (Iyowb) 3. 5 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

This wretched ruinous curse was uttered by Job after he sat for months in appalling misery, then conclusively, he cursed the day he was born.  This bewildered patriarch had long been living in the grim "shadow of death" — but could not die. 

The SUPREME MASTER CREATOR HIMSELF said, "Have the gates of death (Hebrew: shaarey mavet) been disclosed to you? Have you seen the gates of the shadow of death  (Hebrew: shaarey tsalmaveth) or deep darkness?" [Job (Iyowb) 38. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim]   These are eloquent and rhetorically speculative questions, for no one in Job's day had ever returned from death. 

Who knows what lies beyond those hideous, grim doors of death?  MESSIAH Y’SHUA does!   HE told us, "I am HE that lives and was dead; and behold!  I AM ALIVE FOREVER MORE. AMEN!  And, I have the keys of hell and of death." [Revelation 1. 18]   When the LORD JESUS, the EVERLASTING KING conquered death, HE destroyed its sting (not its sorrow).  We can therefore say, along with David, "Though I walk through a Valley of the Shadow of death and deepest darkness, I fear no harm, for YOU are with me; YOUR rod and YOUR staff — they comfort me." [Psalms (Tehillym) 23. 4 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

This same confident assurance is available to the "whosoever will" seek the LORD OF GLORY; the confidence "that turns the shadow of death and deep darkness into the morning dawn (of hope)." [Amos (Amus) 5. 8 Tanakh, Nevi'im]   Then, we can thank the ETERNAL, TRUE & LOVING GOD that "the DAYSPRING from on high has visited us; to give light to those who sit in deep darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." [Luke 1. 78 - 79]   Having a personal relationship with our wonderful LORD GOD fulfills all our hopes and longings...and we have perfect peace that flows like a gentle river. 

 
Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Exalted and hallowed be GOD'S greatness in this world of YOUR creation.  May YOUR will be fulfilled and YOUR sovereignty revealed in the days of our lifetime and the life of the whole House of Israel speedily and in our time.  May YOU be blessed forever, even to all eternity. Amen. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
He who bears no cross deserves no crown. 
 
NO EXCUSE      
When men stand before the RIGHTEOUS GOD OF HEAVEN for judgment there is nothing they can say to accuse the MOST HOLY ONE of injustice for their punishment.  Our INFINITE LOVING MASTER has done everything conceivable to bring us to repentance.  Certainly HIS wonders and works are far above our imaginations: 

No one will be able to say — "But GOD, if YOU had walked with us in a perfect environment and told us your will we would have believed and obeyed." 

 Because HE did and they didn't.  The MASTER CREATOR placed Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden and told them not to eat of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good & Evil, with the warning that they would die the day they disobeyed.  But they ate of it anyway. 

No one will be able to say — "But GOD, if YOU had withdrawn from our midst and allowed us to do our own thing but been willing to walk with us as we sought to walk with YOU, and speak to us by those who chose to be near YOU, we would have naturally wanted to do good. We would have obeyed YOU and we would have done good because that is our nature." 

 Because HE did and they didn't.  From the time the ETERNAL ONE drove Adam and Eve out of the Garden of Eden, HE allowed people to do as they pleased.  The GRACIOUS PROVIDER walked with them as they desired to walk with HIM.  Enoch walked with GOD and GOD took him home.  The rest became so evil that the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE had to send a great flood to cleans the earth of all mankind except Noah and his sons and their wives. 

No one will be able to say — "But GOD, if YOU had made a great example of YOUR great displeasure with evil, then allowed us to do our own thing, we would have walked with YOU in obedience out of fear since it is our nature to do good and not evil."

 Because the EVERLASTING KING did and they didn't.  GOD drove Adam and Eve out of the Garden of Eden after they ate of the forbidden fruit.  Then, because of the great wickedness of mankind upon the earth, GOD sent the Great Flood to express HIS great displeasure with evil.  Again men failed to follow the SOVEREIGN LORD and went their own way to disobey.  They built the Tower of Babel in their pursuits of idolatry.  They continued in their evil pursuits growing worse and worse. 

  Eventually the HOLY & RIGHTEOUS ONE had to divide them up by confusing their languages. They scattered over the face of the earth and continued to get worse until HE was forced to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah because of the cry that came up to Heaven from the wickedness of mankind. 

  Even the Canaanites were not destroyed until Israel was brought out of Egypt, because the wickedness of the Amorites was not yet full.  Then the LORD GOD instructed Israel to destroy the inhabitants of that land.  They continued to grow worse, even though Abraham had lived in their midst as "a prophet of GOD" — and they had been instructed in the way of truth. 

No one will be able to say — "But GOD if YOU had chosen a peculiar people and used them as an example to us by blessing them when they did right and punishing them when they did wrong, we would have watched and learned from their experience and we would have acknowledged and obeyed YOU." 

 Because HE did and they would not.  ALMIGHTY GOD called Abraham and his descendants to be a "light to the Gentiles" -- and blessed them when they followed HIM faithfully, and punished them when they refused to follow HIM.  Still the nations looking on did not acknowledge the GREAT GOD OF HEAVEN to obey HIS ways.  Instead, they persuaded Israel to disobey and then took advantage of them when the LOVING RULER punished them. 

No one will be able to say — "But GOD, if YOU had come to earth as a man and demonstrated how you wanted us to obey YOUR Laws we would have seen and believed."

 Because HE did and they didn't.  GOD came down in the PERSON of Y’SHUA (JESUS) and demonstrated perfectly what HE wanted HIS people to do.  They nailed HIM to the cross and killed the SAVIOR, the MESSIAH, the WORD made flesh. 

No one will be able to say — "But GOD, if YOU had set a people out of every nation, kindred and tongue as lights in the world to show YOUR Will for mankind, we would have listened to them because they would be part of us and speak our language and understand our problems.” 

 Because HE did and they did not.  The EVERLASTING ONE established the Church as the "light of the world" and as the "salt of the earth."  Yet they martyred the Saints and tried to stamp out any evidence of THE WAY to which the Church pointed.  They chose to say that all was the result of accidental process of evolution; and in choosing to believe the lie, they refuse to acknowledge that the GOD OF TRUTH created everything and will some day call every person to give account for the choices they have made. 

No one will be able to say — "But GOD, if YOU had expressed YOUR wrath in such a way that no one could fail to know it was from YOU, we would have realized the extreme terribleness of our ways and we would have repented and come to YOU in humility to learn and obey." 

 Because the LORD GOD will have done it and they continue to refuse.  The LORD OF GLORY will send the plagues of the Great Tribulation and destroy the earth, and men will curse and blaspheme HIM because of their pains, but they will refuse to repent of their wickedness. 

No one will be able to say — "But GOD, if you had taken direct control and set up YOUR OWN government and reigned on the earth personally to guide us where we would not be allowed to do wrong.  And, if YOU had removed temptation from us we would have obeyed cheerfully and followed YOU eagerly, we would have been glad to be YOUR people and accept YOU as our GOD." 

 Because HE will have done it all and they still will not.  The LORD Y’SHUA will reign a Thousand Years of Perfect Government, Satan will be bound and unable to influence men at all.  There will be universal peace even extending to the animal kingdom.  Then when the Thousand Years are over, Satan will be released to influence whoever he can.  He will gather an army of rebels so great that no one will be able to number them. 

MESSIAH Y’SHUA, the ANOINTED ONE, has paid the price for your sin and HE asks only that you accept that GREAT SACRIFICE and come to HIM in repentance to find mercy.  What else can the MOST HOLY AWESOME GOD do to show HIS faithful justice, holiness, mercy, righteousness, grace, and love?  GOD ALMIGHTY, has done enough for anyone wise enough to want to know. 

There is no excuse for anyone who rejects what the TRUE & LIVING GOD has revealed and offered.  Judgment is coming!  Be wise, seek the truth today before it is too late.  Now is the acceptable time, today is the day of salvation! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Shalom U'Vrakah — Peace & Blessings! . . . to all who love Zion!  The LORD GOD be with you this day and always!  
Delight your days and precious moments with our WONDERFUL LORD GOD. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
If you are not confused, you are not paying attention. 

PRISONS OPENED     
"The SPIRIT OF THE LORD GOD is upon ME, because the LORD has anointed ME; HE has sent ME as a HERALD OF JOY to the humble; to bind up the wounded of heart, to proclaim release to the captives, and liberation to the imprisoned." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 61. 1 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

The LORD JESUS fittingly appropriated this beautiful verse of the prophet Isaiah to HIMSELF, preaching from it one day in the Nazareth Synagogue, and proclaiming: "Today this SCRIPTURE is fulfilled in your hearing." [Luke 4. 21]   Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH came to preach the GOOD NEWS to the meek, not the arrogant and to bind up the broken hearted, not the hard hearted. 

The BLESSED REDEEMER came also to set the captives free.  This was not to deliver the Jews from Roman bondage as many had hoped, but a far greater deliverance.  In Hebrew, the phrase "opening of the prison (qeqach-qowach: jail delivery)" is only one word occurring only this one time in the OLD COVENANT.  When MESSIAH quoted this SCRIPTURE in the synagogue, HE actually expanded and interpreted it as follows:  "…to preach deliverance to the captive and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed." [Luke 4. 18] 

The prison which the LORD Y’SHUA came to open is clearly a spiritual prison; a binding of the soul; a blinding of the mind.  "If the SON makes you free, you shall be free indeed" [John 8:36] — free from the bondage of sin, changed and transformed "out of darkness into HIS marvelous light." [1 Peter 2. 9] 

Likewise, there was another very real prison deep in the heart of the earth, to which MESSIAH Y’SHUA came.  While HIS BODY slept in the tomb, HIS SPIRIT descended into Hades, where HE preached to the spirits in prison who formerly were disobedient during the flood. [1 Peter 3. 18 - 20]   This was not giving them an option for salvation, but MESSIAH was revealing HIS plan of salvation, which they should have known.  All who had died in faith were awaiting HIM; and "when HE ascended on high, HE led captivity captive...and ASCENDED UP far above all the heavens, that HE might fill all things everywhere with HIMSELF, from the very lowest to the very highest." [Ephesians 4. 8, 10] 

The MESSIAH Y’SHUA is the wondrous GIFT OF GRACE lovingly given from our AMAZING OMNIPOTENT LORD GOD, freely and munificently given to who-so-ever-will receive HIM; and by HIS shed blood, we are free from sin and made righteous.  How can we help but thank the OVERWHELMINGLY WONDERFUL RULER OF ISRAEL for HIS immeasurable love to us! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  As we bid farewell to Shabbos, we thank YOU, GREAT & MIGHTY GOD for YOUR grace, for knowing the sanctity of life, and the perfect rest we find daily in YOU.  Keep us ever grateful and grant us YOUR wondrous salvation. Amen
 Have a Shavuah Tov — A Good Week!  May some of the sweetness of Sabbath be present throughout your daily lives. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
It’s a mistake to think that we can impress the world by compromising with it. 
 
ATHEISTS & UNBELIEVERS      
"The fool thinks — There is no GOD or GOD does not care.  Man's deeds and wrongdoing is corrupt and loathsome; no one does good." [Psalms (Tehillym) 14. 1; 53. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  "For the wicked boasts of his heart's desire; he blesses the greedy and renounces the LORD.  The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek GOD; GOD is in none of his thoughts."  [Psalms/Tehillym 10. 3 - 4] 
 
The Hebrew word for fool used in these passages is nabal — meaning the lowest of depraved fools for they are senseless, GOD-denying, stupid, wicked and vile.  For many years now, we have bowed to atheists feelings of antagonism against any public expression of our faith in the only TRUE GOD, MASTER CREATOR of the Heavens and the Earth.   However, CHRISTians are commanded to express their faith as the LORD Y’SHUA intended to, "go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature.  He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned." [Mark 16. 15 - 16] 
 
The foolish atheists (a Greek words: alpeha, “negative, no” and Theos “GOD” meaning “there is no GOD”) have demand that we followers of MESSIAH Y’SHUA, must quietly show tolerance and respect for their expressions of their religious belief — while all the while declaring that there is no ETERNAL & HOLY GOD; or all paths lead to HIM.  This latter statement is true, but only to the point that all will stand before the SOVEREIGN ONE to give an account for the deeds they have done in this life.   For the believer, the precious blood of Y’SHUA covers their sin and there is eternal life.  However, for those who did not believe, HE is the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE WHO cannot tolerate sin.  HOLY SCRIPTURE clearly states that if we remain tolerant or silent, the stones and rocks would cry out. [Luke 19. 40]   Beyond doubt, THERE IS A SUPREME GOD and we know it is essential to obey HIM, not man.  Declaring the glory of the SOVEREIGN LORD is not only our right, but it is our spiritual duty to our MIGHTY KING, the GREAT LORD GOD OF HOSTS. 
 
A sufficient word to atheists, agnostics and unbelievers:  Now is a good time to reconsider your position of belief.  "Behold, NOW is the accepted time; behold, NOW is the day of salvation." [2 Corinthians 6. 2]   I implore you, examine and re-examine the infallible evidence, and reconsider the risk pertaining to the end result!  The evidence of God is overwhelming and convincingly compelling for the one who is truly looking.  Looking at it from a conscientious standpoint, it makes sense to consider the subject worthy of careful evaluation.  If you are right and there is no RIGHTEOUS, AWESOME GOD WHO is a JEALOUS GOD OF JUSTICE, then when your life is over, you simply cease to exist. 
 
However, if you are wrong and GOD'S HOLY WORD is correct, there is, in truth, an OMNIPOTENT OMNISCIENT GOD WHO has revealed HIMSELF to mankind throughout the ages.  A LOVING MASTER DESIGNER WHO provided verifiable evidence of HIS existence, revealed HIS will for mankind, expressed HIS intentions toward us for the present times and for all ages.  Also the ALMIGHTY showed us the eternal destiny HE has established.   There is certain and just basis to call your attention to the fact that it is indisputably wise to CONSIDER THE EVIDENCE.  Do not risk your soul!  The cost is too great as your eternal destiny will be the Lake of Fire! 
 
There is a hope of Heaven to gain, and there is a Hell and Lake of Fire to avoid in fear.  Because the GOOD SHEPHERD has such a great love for you, HE has revealed the TRUTH and the ONLY WAY for all mankind to receive salvation, and it is recorded in HIS HOLY WORD.  Y’SHUA, GOD’S ONLY MEANS OF DELIVERANCE, is our FREE GIFT, if we would only receive HIM. 
 
Many atheists, skeptics and believers alike have made the statement — "If there is a LOVING GOD, how could HE allow this (Holocaust, bombings, terrorists, abortion, euthanasia, famine, floods, etc.) to happen."  The answer is simple:  If they knew the MERCIFUL CREATOR OF HOLY WRIT they would understand that HE allows mankind to make choices and do their utmost evil.  Then after they have decided, HE proves HIMSELF to be the RIGHTEOUSLY JUDGE, and indeed HE is, and will not be manipulated, as some also claim.  There is nothing our GREAT & MIGHTY GOD has not done to provide everyone a right to eternal Life for only believing! 
 
GOD ETERNAL not only told us the truth, but HE also provided "THE ANSWER" for our sin problem and for unbelief.  HE alone has solved the dilemma which we find ourselves in, by paying the  penalty for our sins with HIS OWN LIFE.  That ANSWER is GOD'S ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, JESUS CHRIST WHO died and provided the blood that GOD THE FATHER uses to cover our sins, and to impute the righteousness of Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH to the record of our lives.   This is the hope and confidence we have to stand before LORD JESUS on the Day of Judgment. 
 
The advantages of being a disciple of MESSIAH Y’SHUA (in Truth...not verbal or mere pretense) are too remarkable and wonderfully compelling to ignore — well worth looking into.  Then, you too may find peace of mind and peace with the world around you.  "Taste and see how good the LORD is; blessed is the man who trusts and takes refuge in HIM!" [Psalms (Tehillym) 34. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  The ALL-MERCIFUL SAVIOR promised, and HE cannot lie, that for those who seek HIM, HE will be found by them.  That is HIS heart’s desire; but, you must seek the DIVINE MASTER in sincerity and truth. 
 
Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  It is impossible to take a stand while walking away; it is impossible share the TRUTH with those we avoid; it is impossible to love others when we stay away from them; and it is impossible to defend against the lies of those who claim to follow GOD when we let it all happen and never say a word. 
  O GOD, thank you for loving me even when I could not love myself.  Keep praying, keep believing and, above all, find & keep the faith, HalleluYAH! 
 
Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.
 
 
Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The challenge in parenting is to be who we would have our children become. 

FIRSTBORN     
"HE (JESUS) is the IMAGE of the INVISIBLE GOD, the FIRST-BORN over all creation." [Colossians 1. 15] 

Here the word first-born (Hebrew — bekowr) does not always mean "born first" — but more often means "position" in HOLY SCRIPTURE.   "He (David) shall say to ME — YOU are my FATHER, my GOD, the ROCK of my deliverance.  I will appoint him MY FIRST-BORN, highest of the kings of the earth." [Psalms (Tehillym) 89. 27 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  David was the eighth son of Iyshay (Jesse), not his first born, Eliab was. [1 Samuel/Shemuel Alef 17. 13] 

Ephraim was the second born son of Joseph, Manasseh being the first.  Nevertheless, Ephraim is called the firstborn by the SOVEREIGN LORD GOD: "I am ever a FATHER to Israel, Ephraim is MY first-born." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 31. 9 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Furthermore, "Hosah of the Merarites had sons, Shimri the first (he was not the first-born, but his father designated him the first)." [1 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Alef) 26. 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  The HOLY WORD even calls a whole nation, a race of people first-born : "Then you shall say to Pharaoh — Thus says the LORD: Israel is MY first-born son." [Exodus (Shemot) 4. 22 Tanakh, Torah] 

The PIERCED ONE, MESSIAH Y’SHUA is "the LORD WHO stretches out the heavens, made firm the foundation of the earth, and created the spirit of man within him." [Zechariah (Zecharyah) 12. 1 Tanakh, Nevi'im]  "Thus said the LORD, your REDEEMER, WHO formed you from the womb — It is I, the LORD, WHO made everything, WHO created the heavens and stretched them out, WHO spread out the earth and what it brings forth, WHO gave breath to the people upon it and life to those who walk thereon by MYSELF." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 44. 24; 42. 5 Tanakh, Nevi'im]  "All things were made through HIM, and without HIM nothing was made that was made." [John 1. 3] 

Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH was called the "FIRST-BORN" because in HIM we have "redemption through HIS blood, the forgiveness of sins.  HE IS THE IMAGE OF THE INVISIBLE GOD, THE FIRSTBORN OVER ALL CREATION.  For by HIM all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers.  ALL THINGS were created through HIM and for HIM.  HE is before all things, and in HIM all things consist.  And HE is the HEAD of the body, the church, WHO is the beginning, the FIRSTBORN from the dead.  That in all things HE may have the PREEMINENCE (dominance, superiority, incomparability)." [Colossians 1. 14 - 18] 

GOD THE FATHER, WHO spoke of HIS FIRST-BORN SON, WHOM HE appointed HEIR of all things: "YOU are MY SON, today I have begotten YOU...I will be a FATHER to HIM, and HE shall be MY SON...When HE again brings the FIRSTBORN into the world, HE says — Let all the angels of GOD worship HIM...YOUR Throne, O GOD, is forever and ever; a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of YOUR Kingdom.  YOU have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; therefore GOD, YOUR GOD, has anointed YOU with the oil of gladness...YOU are the same, your years will not fail...Sit at MY right hand, till I make YOUR enemies YOUR footstool." [Hebrews 1. 1 - 13] 

As believers in the LORD Y’SHUA, we are called HIS first-born.  And, by HIS hand we are registered in heaven since we have been made just and perfect by "HIS redeeming blood." [Hebrews 12. 23]   Throughout eternity we will praise our LORD Y’SHUA, the BELOVED, the "FAITHFUL WITNESS, the FIRST-BORN from the dead." [Revelation 1. 5]   All hail KING JESUS, for HE is altogether worthy of blessings, and honor, and riches, and power, and wisdom, and strength, and glory forever and ever. Amen & Amen! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Good Sabbath! Open your hearts in song as the sunset swells into a cadence of changing colors: Come, my dear friend, to meet the Bride, the Sabbath presence, let us welcome.  
Sabbath of Va’Era – “And I Appeared” [Reading: Exodus 6:2 - 9:35; Ezekiel 28:25 – 29:21; Luke 11:14-22] 
  May your heart be filled with insight and your words be filled with insight; songs of praise ever be upon your tongue and your vision be on a straight path before you.  May your eyes shine with the light of holy words and your face reflect the brightness of the heavens; and, your lips ever speak wisdom and your fulfillment be in righteousness even as you ever yearn to hear the life-giving words of the HOLY ONE OF OLD. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The truly righteous ones do not complain about evil, but rather add justice; they do not complain about heresy, but rather add faith; they do not complain about ignorance, but rather add wisdom. [Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak ha’Cohen Kook] 

GRACE, THE GIFT      
"GOD resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." [1 Peter 5. 5] 

Grace is first found in Genesis/Bereshith where "Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD" [6:8], and is a treasured free gift only given by our LOVING CREATOR.  The grace of LORD GOD MOST HIGH is freely given, not something that can be earned, for it is unmerited favor.  Salvation is one thing we never deserve or any of the other blessings HE provides, but "the gift (Hebrew: "chen/chanan" — grace) of GOD is eternal life." [Romans 6. 23]  "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of GOD, not of works, lest anyone should boast." [Ephesians 2. 8 - 9]  "For you know the grace of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, that though HE was rich, yet for your sakes HE became poor, that you through HIS poverty might become rich." [2 Corinthians 8. 9] 

Since the ALMIGHTY GOD of all flesh, through MESSIAH Y’SHUA has lavished such abundant grace to us, we likewise should manifest grace to others.  But such grace in us is no more achievable by human effort then is GOD'S abundant grace toward us.  Grace is always the GRACIOUS GIFT OF GOD — to be received in faith and humility, never in pride.  And grace is given through faith and is most attractive to and most effective for the poor in spirit.  "To such a one I will look: To the poor and brokenhearted (contrite, ashamed spirit), who is concerned about MY WORD." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 66. 2 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

"But to you who fear MY NAME the SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS shall arise bring healing in HIS wings.  You shall go out and grow fat like stall-fed calves, and you shall trample the wicked, for they shall be as dust under the soles of your feet." [Malachi (Malakhi) 4. 2 - 3 Tanakh, Nevi’im]  "Has GOD not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which HE promised to those who love HIM?" [James 2. 5]  The unconditional promises of the MIGHTY GOD OF HOSTS cannot be earned; they can only be received freely. 

A proud person can never be gracious, as the HOLY OMNIPOTENT ONE will never give HIS gifts to those who are proud.  "To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride, arrogance, the evil way, and duplicity (treachery, dishonest, lies) in speech." [Proverbs (Mishle) 8. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  "At scoffers HE scoffs, but to the lowly HE shows grace." [Proverbs (Mishle) 3. 34 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  "A man's pride will humiliate him, but the humble in spirit will obtain honor." [Proverbs (Mishle) 29. 23 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

"As you abound in everything — in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us — see that you abound in this grace also." [2 Corinthians 8. 7]  Never forget! — all GOD’S blessings come by HIS grace alone.  HE gives grace to the humble, not to the proud. 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Praised are YOU, YEHOWAH, our GOD, SOVEREIGN of the Universe, WHO makes us holy with YOUR mitzvoth and favors us with the HOLY SPIRIT, lovingly and graciously given to guide us.  We thank YOU, GREAT & MIGHTY GOD for by YOUR mercies and grace we were taught the sanctity of each day in YOUR peace, keep us ever grateful and grant us perfect rest in YOU. Amen 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY... 
Over time, we are richer for what we discover we don't need than for getting what we thought we wanted. 

THE MARK, A SIGNET 
"The LORD said to him (the angel with the inkhorn) — Pass through the city, through Jerusalem, and put a mark on the foreheads (seal of ownership) of the men who moan, grieve, lament and groan because of all the abominations that are committed in it. To the others HE said in my hearing — Follow him through the city and strike; show no pity or compassion. Kill off graybeard, youth and maiden, women and children; but do not touch any person who bears the MARK. Begin here at MY Sanctuary." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 9. 4 - 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

The SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD is to protect HIS servants from the plagues of the Great Tribulation, which will enable them to do their work more effectively and without harm. The man clothed in linen with an inkhorn is the one who did the marking of these OLD COVENANT saints who were to be protected from the DEATH ANGEL OF THE LORD. In the same way, the blood on the door posts and lintel of the houses of the Children of Israel protected them when the DEATH ANGEL passed over the land in Egypt. "And the blood on the houses where you are staying shall be a SIGN for you: When I see the blood I will pass over you, so that no plague will destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt." [Exodus (Shemot) 12. 12 - 13 Tanakh, Torah] 

The things done in the OLD COVENANT, especially in the realm of prophecy, were often pictures and illustrations of things that would happen in the future. Such is the case with the command to not hurt anything with the plagues of the Great Tribulation until the 144,000 are sealed. This MARK is for a secure protection from the plagues that are to come. "Then I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the LIVING GOD saying — Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees until we have sealed the servants of our GOD on their foreheads. And I heard the number of those who were sealed, One Hundred and Forty-Four Thousand of all the Tribes of the Children of Israel were sealed." [Revelation 7. 1 - 8] 

These 144,000 are identified as "SERVANTS of our GOD" who are "following the LAMB wherever HE goes" and have "HIS FATHER'S NAME, written on their foreheads. The 144,000 were redeemed from the earth. They were not defiled with women, for they are virgins. They were redeemed among men, being firstfruits to GOD and to the LAMB. No deceit was found in their mouth, for they are without fault before the Throne of GOD." [Revelation 14. 1 - 5] Obviously, they are the protected witnesses of the LORD YESHUA ha’MASHIACH to the world throughout the Great Tribulation. 

The "Mark of GOD" should in no way be confused or compared to the "Mark of the Antichrist (Mark of the Beast)." The Mark of the Beast is a demonic-counterfeit which entices people to sell their soul in an attempt to save their mortal life. The "Mark of the LORD GOD" is HIS sign of protection for HIS faithful saints. 

"MARK the blameless, note the upright; for there is a peaceful future for the man of integrity. But the transgressors shall be utterly destroyed, the future of the wicked shall be cut off. But the salvation of the righteous comes from the LORD; their STRONGHOLD in time of trouble. The LORD helps them and delivers them, rescues them from the wicked and delivers them, for they seek refuge and they trust in HIM." [Psalms (Tehillym) 37. 37 - 40 Tanakh, Kethuvim] May we be found blameless and ever wear "the mark" of being a true child of the HEAVENLY KING OF GLORY. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
May the MOST HIGH LORD GOD anoint and empower you daily. Remember, worship is always essential– and our focus is on Y’SHUA, THE ONE WHO is our ROCK, our FORTRESS, our LIGHT & SALVATION, our soon-returning MESSIAH & KING. Come into HIS PRESENCE with thanksgiving and enter HIS courts with praise. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Life is not a matter of chance, it's a matter of choice — "Choose Wisely." 

NEW YEARS MEDITATION 
O ETERNAL ONE, WHO gives meaning to the strivings of men, attune our hearts for communion with YOU. Open my lips, and my mouth shall declare YOUR praises. YOU are Holy, and YOUR NAME is holy and YOUR worshipers proclaim YOUR holiness. Praised are YOU, O LORD GOD. 

O LIVING GOD, YOU are blessed, my KING, my HELPER, my SAVIOR & SHIELD. YOU, O LORD, are mighty forever; YOU quicken the dead, YOU are mighty to save.. YOU sustain the living with lovingkindness, quicken the dead with great mercy, support the falling, heal the sick, loose the bound and keep YOUR faith to them that sleep in the dust. 

How often, when everything else fails us, do we yearn for YOU, our MIGHTY CREATOR. In the stillness of the night, in the press of the crowd, in the agony of inner conflict, we bow our heads, and at that moment, YOU are in our hearts and we are at peace. 

We do not know, O MERCIFUL LORD, whether the gifts for which we ask are for our good, whether our trials and tribulations may not be blessings in disguise, whether even the fragments of our shattered hopes and dreams may not minister to the up-building of other lives and the fulfillment of YOUR unfathomable plan. So we do not pray that YOU make our lives easy, to give us happiness without adversity. Rather we pray that YOU continue to help us to be uncomplaining and unafraid. Teach us to face life with faith and courage that we may see the blessings hidden away even in its conflicts and struggles. Help us to find victory in the discipline of pain transforming all things into loving obedience. May we seek the face of GOD because HE is GOD. 

May we realize that life calls us, not merely to enjoy the fatness of the earth, but to rejoice in heights attained after the toil of climbing. Then, our darkness will be illumined by YOUR GLORIOUS LIGHT and our weakness made strong by YOUR strength, lifting us above fear and defeat, and sustaining our steps with an immortal hope. 

The ALMIGHTY ONE is HOPE to them that wait for HIM, JOY to the Land of Israel, GLADNESS to the City of Jerusalem, and a FLOURISHING HORN to HIS servants. The SON OF JESSE, the ANOINTED ROCK OF AGES, is a CLEAR SHINING LIGHT to those who fear HIM. O, give glory and praise to the LORD GOD OMNIPOTENT! 

Then shall the just also see and be glad, and the upright shall exult, and the pious triumphantly rejoice, while iniquity shall close her mouth, and all wickedness shall be wholly consumed like smoke, when YOU LORD my GOD make the dominion of arrogance to pass away from the earth. 

And YOU, O ALMIGHTY LORD, shall reign, YOU alone over all YOUR works on Mount Zion, the dwelling place of YOUR glory, and in Jerusalem, YOUR Holy City, as it is recorded in YOUR HOLY WRITTEN WORD, "The LORD shall reign forever, your GOD, O Zion, for all generations. HalleluYAH." [Psalms (Tehillym) 146. 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Highly exalted and praised are YOU, O LORD our ETERNAL GOD, the STAY & TRUST of the righteous. Amen! 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Shalom Shabbat, may the ALMIGHTY ONE, WHO separates the holy from the secular, forgive our sins, guide our life, and fill our upcoming week with HIS DIVINE PRESENCE. 
Refresh yourself and others through HIS wisdom & discernment, love & kindness — that you continue to experience some of the sweetness of Sabbath daily. "Now to HIM WHO is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the PRESENCE OF HIS GLORY with exceeding joy, to GOD our SAVIOR WHO alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever, Amen!" [Jude 25] 
As we enter another year, we hold you in our hearts — please know, you are in our daily prayers! May GOD be with you and strengthen you, giving you wisdom, discernment, mercy and grace! 
"Tov Shavua — Have a good week!" The LORD bless and keep you throughout the coming days of the new year! Go with GOD! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
It’s a mistake to think that we can impress the world by compromising with it. 

ATHEISTS & UNBELIEVERS      
"The fool thinks — There is no GOD or GOD does not care.  Man's deeds and wrongdoing is corrupt and loathsome; no one does good." [Psalms (Tehillym) 14. 1; 53. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  "For the wicked boasts of his heart's desire; he blesses the greedy and renounces the LORD.  The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek GOD; GOD is in none of his thoughts."  [Psalms/Tehillym 10. 3 - 4] 

The Hebrew word for fool used in these passages is nabal — meaning the lowest of depraved fools for they are senseless, GOD-denying, stupid, wicked and vile.  For many years now, we have bowed to atheists feelings of antagonism against any public expression of our faith in the only TRUE GOD, MASTER CREATOR of the Heavens and the Earth.   However, CHRISTians are commanded to express their faith as the LORD Y’SHUA intended to, "go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature.  He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned." [Mark 16. 15 - 16] 

The foolish atheists (a Greek words: alpeha, “negative, no” and Theos “GOD” meaning “there is no GOD”) have demand that we followers of MESSIAH Y’SHUA, must quietly show tolerance and respect for their expressions of their religious belief — while all the while declaring that there is no ETERNAL & HOLY GOD; or all paths lead to HIM.  This latter statement is true, but only to the point that all will stand before the SOVEREIGN ONE to give an account for the deeds they have done in this life.   For the believer, the precious blood of Y’SHUA covers their sin and there is eternal life.  However, for those who did not believe, HE is the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE WHO cannot tolerate sin.  HOLY SCRIPTURE clearly states that if we remain tolerant or silent, the stones and rocks would cry out. [Luke 19. 40]   Beyond doubt, THERE IS A SUPREME GOD and we know it is essential to obey HIM, not man.  Declaring the glory of the SOVEREIGN LORD is not only our right, but it is our spiritual duty to our MIGHTY KING, the GREAT LORD GOD OF HOSTS. 

A sufficient word to atheists, agnostics and unbelievers:  Now is a good time to reconsider your position of belief.  "Behold, NOW is the accepted time; behold, NOW is the day of salvation." [2 Corinthians 6. 2]   I implore you, examine and re-examine the infallible evidence, and reconsider the risk pertaining to the end result!  The evidence of God is overwhelming and convincingly compelling for the one who is truly looking.  Looking at it from a conscientious standpoint, it makes sense to consider the subject worthy of careful evaluation.  If you are right and there is no RIGHTEOUS, AWESOME GOD WHO is a JEALOUS GOD OF JUSTICE, then when your life is over, you simply cease to exist. 

However, if you are wrong and GOD'S HOLY WORD is correct, there is, in truth, an OMNIPOTENT OMNISCIENT GOD WHO has revealed HIMSELF to mankind throughout the ages.  A LOVING MASTER DESIGNER WHO provided verifiable evidence of HIS existence, revealed HIS will for mankind, expressed HIS intentions toward us for the present times and for all ages.  Also the ALMIGHTY showed us the eternal destiny HE has established.   There is certain and just basis to call your attention to the fact that it is indisputably wise to CONSIDER THE EVIDENCE.  Do not risk your soul!  The cost is too great as your eternal destiny will be the Lake of Fire! 

There is a hope of Heaven to gain, and there is a Hell and Lake of Fire to avoid in fear.  Because the GOOD SHEPHERD has such a great love for you, HE has revealed the TRUTH and the ONLY WAY for all mankind to receive salvation, and it is recorded in HIS HOLY WORD.  Y’SHUA, GOD’S ONLY MEANS OF DELIVERANCE, is our FREE GIFT, if we would only receive HIM. 

Many atheists, skeptics and believers alike have made the statement — "If there is a LOVING GOD, how could HE allow this (Holocaust, bombings, terrorists, abortion, euthanasia, famine, floods, etc.) to happen."  The answer is simple:  If they knew the MERCIFUL CREATOR OF HOLY WRIT they would understand that HE allows mankind to make choices and do their utmost evil.  Then after they have decided, HE proves HIMSELF to be the RIGHTEOUSLY JUDGE, and indeed HE is, and will not be manipulated, as some also claim.  There is nothing our GREAT & MIGHTY GOD has not done to provide everyone a right to eternal Life for only believing! 

GOD ETERNAL not only told us the truth, but HE also provided "THE ANSWER" for our sin problem and for unbelief.  HE alone has solved the dilemma which we find ourselves in, by paying the  penalty for our sins with HIS OWN LIFE.  That ANSWER is GOD'S ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, JESUS CHRIST WHO died and provided the blood that GOD THE FATHER uses to cover our sins, and to impute the righteousness of Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH to the record of our lives.   This is the hope and confidence we have to stand before LORD JESUS on the Day of Judgment. 

The advantages of being a disciple of MESSIAH Y’SHUA (in Truth...not verbal or mere pretense) are too remarkable and wonderfully compelling to ignore — well worth looking into.  Then, you too may find peace of mind and peace with the world around you.  "Taste and see how good the LORD is; blessed is the man who trusts and takes refuge in HIM!" [Psalms (Tehillym) 34. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  The ALL-MERCIFUL SAVIOR promised, and HE cannot lie, that for those who seek HIM, HE will be found by them.  That is HIS heart’s desire; but, you must seek the DIVINE MASTER in sincerity and truth. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  It is impossible to take a stand while walking away; it is impossible share the TRUTH with those we avoid; it is impossible to love others when we stay away from them; and it is impossible to defend against the lies of those who claim to follow GOD when we let it all happen and never say a word. 
  O GOD, thank you for loving me even when I could not love myself.  Keep praying, keep believing and, above all, find & keep the faith, HalleluYAH! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.


Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The solution to the crime problem in the U.S. is to legalize it and tax it out of existence.  Better yet, turn to GOD with our whole heart and HE will restore the world in righteousness!  Yes, the beginning of wisdom is fear the LORD.  — Acquire it! 

INSTRUCT A WISE MAN      
"Reprove a wise man, and he will love you. Instruct a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning." [Proverbs (Mishle) 9. 8 - 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Criticism is one of the most difficult lessons for followers of MESSIAH Y’SHUA to learn to handle appropriately.  Either they react with resentment, which is natural, or they desire to strike back.  Neither of these responses is honoring to the LORD our SAVIOR. 

If the sincere believer would remember "that all things work together for good to those who love GOD, to those who are the called according to HIS purpose." [Romans 8. 28]  We should first of all consider the criticism as potential "instructions" from the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL as well as from the critic.  It is GOD who works all things out We should seek to test the criticism as objectively as possible, in light of our actions and the HOLY SCRIPTURES, the most probing critic of all.  "Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of GOD commit their souls to HIM in doing good, as to a FAITHFUL CREATOR." [1 Peter 4. 19]  "For the WORD OF GOD is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.  And there is no creature hidden from HIS sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of HIM to WHOM we must give account." [Hebrews 4. 12 - 13] 

If criticism turns out to be even partly valid, then the obvious course for the sagacious (keen discernment, acute minded, good judgment, wise, practical sense) person is to take the appropriate remedial action and do it prayerfully, graciously, and quickly as possible.  "For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him." [Matthew 13. 12] 

However, if an honest evaluation of the criticism proves to be totally unwarranted, or perhaps even deliberately false and hurtful, then the PERFECT EXAMPLE for any recourse becomes MESSIAH Y’SHUA HIMSELF.  HE never did or said anything to merit criticism, as we do far too often, but HE received it in excess as they flooded HIM with mockings, curses, ridicules and insults. 

So, what was the response of the LORD Y’SHUA?  "When HE was reviled, HE did not revile in return; when HE suffered, HE did not threaten, but committed HIMSELF to HIM WHO judges righteously." [1 Peter 2. 23]  Also, bear in mind, "a gentle answer allays (calms, disperses, turns away) wrath, but a harsh word provokes (incites, causes, stirs up) anger." [Proverbs (Mishle) 15. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

We must never become discouraged in doing good but, "consider HIM WHO endured such hostility from sinners against HIMSELF, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls." [Hebrews 12. 3]  And, "in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." [Galatians 6. 9]  Our LOVING FORTRESS OF DEFENSE will give us tests and challenges to help us grow.  Perhaps these antagonizing critics are there to help us be more genuine to the praise, honor and glory of Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH my LORD. 

Here are three steps we must maintain for correct directions in our lives:  
Remain close to GOD.  We must stay close enough to be under HIS shadow and know HIS WORD to hear HIS guidance and listen to HIS warnings. [Psalms/Tehillym 57. 2 - 3]  
Rely on GOD to guide us in the correct path.  Rather than using our own wisdom or insight, we must trust that HE knows the best way, the safest route, and the destination that will bring rewards rather than regrets. [Proverbs/Mishle 3. 5]  
Obey GOD'S every instruction. We must be courageous when we are afraid...bold when we feel doubtful...certain when we are unsure. [Isaiah/Yeshayah 1. 19] 

Persistently hold onto the ALMIGHTY ONE as we walk through life, and HE will give us menuchah nechonah [Hebrew for true rest].  Forgiving sets us free! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Take delight in approaching GOD and the glory of the LORD will be your reward.  HE will protect and guide you continually, satisfying your soul like a watered garden, who's water fails not. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings.  [Eric Hoffer] 

NUMBERING OUR DAYS      
"So teach us to number our days rightly, that we may obtain a heart of wisdom." [Psalm (Tehillym) 90. 12 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

This prayer of counsel is written as a psalm, a great word of advise written by Moses as he was about to finish his long life of service to the SUPREME Lord.  He had lived 120 years, although the normal life span is only seventy or eighty.  Moses’ first forty years were spent serving the Egyptians; his next forty years were tending sheep for his father-in-law, Jethro in Midian; and then his service to GOD was forty years delivering Israel from Egyptian bondage and shepherding them in the Wilderness on the way to the Promised Land. 


Thus, Moses stressed the vital importance of "numbering our days" so that we may determine to wisely use whatever time we have individually.  In Deuteronomy Moses also wrote: "O, that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end!" [Deuteronomy/Devarim 32. 29] 


The SOVEREIGN ONE counsels throughout HOLY SCRIPTURE to number our days while "redeeming the time." [Colossians 4. 5]  We know not when the LORD will return or death will overtake us.  "Walk circumspectly (carefully), not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil." [Ephesians 5. 15 - 16]   "Do not boast of tomorrow, for you do not know what a day will bring forth." [Proverbs (Mishle) 27. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  "You do not know what will happen tomorrow.  For what is your life?  It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away." [James 4. 14] 


Whatever this New Year may bring into your life, be it chaos, prosperity or death, no matter what evil comes on this earth — the days will still afford opportunity to serve the LOVING ETERNAL GOD, our MIGHTY LORD OF HOSTS.  "Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us but to YOUR NAME bring glory, because of YOUR love, YOUR faithfulness, and YOUR mercy." [Psalms (Tehillym) 115. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  Beloved, "build yourselves up on your most holy faith — keep yourselves in the love of GOD, looking for the mercy of our LORD JESUS CHRIST unto eternal life." [Jude 20 - 21]  Whatever time we have, let us make our days count exclusively for the MASTER. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Thank you for being a part of our life!  As we enter another year, we prayerfully urge each of you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD in the bond of peace.  What we can accomplish on our own is hardly noteworthy.  But, in the hand of the MASTER, our life's work can be truly beautiful.  May the grace of our precious LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH be with your spirit every moment of each new day.  Y’SHUA does not bring peace on earth until He comes, HE is PEACE; even in the midst of trials and sorrows, we find, live in, and share HIS Heavenly peace.  Confidently assured that the LORD ETERNAL will lead us through our valleys whatever they be and secure in HIS grace, mercy, forgiveness and love.  
  Our prayerful desire for you:  Comfort on difficult days; Smiles when sadness intrudes; Rainbows to follow the clouds; Laughter to kiss your lips; Sunsets to warm your heart; Gentle hugs when spirits sag; Friendships to brighten your being; Beauty for your eyes to see; Confidence for when you doubt; Faith to believe; Courage to be bold; Patience to accept the truth, and tender Love that is eternal. 

  We asked GOD to bless you when we prayed for you today, to guide you and protect you on your way — HIS love is always with you, HIS promises are sure.  No matter what tribulation comes, HE is faithful to see us through.  So when the road you're traveling seems difficult at best, give your problems to the LORD, and our MIGHTY & AWESOME GOD will do the rest.  
  We wish you and your family a happy, healthy year – may you have a year filled with meaning and purpose and happiness that will surely follow.  We pray this blessing over you today: “May the LORD cause you to flourish, both you and your children.  May you be blessed by the LORD, the MAKER of heaven and earth.” [Psalm 115:14-15]  
Love, in MESSIAH’S service — Rabbi Del & Rifkah 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Freedom of the soul comes through obedience to GOD’S LIFE-GIVING COMMANDMENTS. 

STRENGTHENING THE LAW     
"You shall not make for yourself a carved image — any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or on the earth below, or in the waters under the earth.  You shall not bow down to them nor serve them.  For I, the LORD your GOD, am an impassioned, jealous GOD." [Exodus (Shemot) 20. 4 – 5a Tanakh, Torah] 

CHRISTianity is condemned and criticized by most secular groups claiming that it is a religion of negativism filled with prohibitions and controlling rules.  In response, many followers of the LORD Y’SHUA reply to these negative comments by stressing the love and freedom they experience from the Law. 

However, the NEW COVENANT reiterates most of the OLD COVENANT prohibitions, if not more as MESSIAH Y’SHUA toughened the Law making everyone guilty and in need of the SAVIOR.  For instance: the OLD COVENANT teaches not to commit adultery.  MESSIAH toughened the law more-so with HIS teaching, "You have heard that it was said to those of old — You shall not commit adultery.  But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. [Matthew 5. 27 – 28] 

Including the initial text, seven of Ten Commandments begin with the words, You Shall Not…  "You shall not take the NAME of the LORD your GOD in vain...You shall not murder...You shall not commit adultery...You shall not steal...You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor...You shall not covet." [Exodus/Shemot 20. 7, 13 – 17 Tanakh, Torah]  And these Ten Commandments are reaffirmed in some form and fortified in the NEW COVENANT. 

It is most inappropriate for any true follower of CHRIST to ignore these commandments.  GODly conduct is as important now as it ever was.  Not only are these prohibitions all repeated in the NEW COVENANT, but there are numerous other laws, regulations, and sets of laws for us to follow exclusively.  They all are instructions to those who are saved by GOD’S wondrous grace, apart from works of the law.  "Man is not justified by the works of the Law but by faith in JESUS CHRIST, even we have believed in CHRIST JESUS, that we might be justified by faith in CHRIST and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified." [Galatians 2. 16]  No one is justified by the law in the sight of GOD which is evident, for "the just shall live by faith." [Galatians 3. 11] 

The Law that was done away with, nailed to the Cross of Calvary, was the laws regarding the various sacrifices, for the LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH paid them once and for all when HE offered up HIMSELF paying the full penalty for our transgressions. 

SCRIPTURE instructs us, "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." [Philippians 2. 12]   In other words, learn to walk and stand firm in the LORD GOD instead of leaning on others personal influences.  Your spiritual duties must be your own hearts actions.  We cannot work for our salvation, but we must work out our salvation, putting off the works of the flesh and putting on the works of a regenerated life. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Come, my dear friend, let us go out to meet the Sabbath, the Queen!  Come, O Bride, the Sabbath presence is eagerly awaited, and joyously welcomed!  Sabbath of Shemot – “Names” [Reading: Exodus 1:1 - 6:1; Isaiah 27:6 – 28:13; 29:22-23; Matthew 2:1-12]  
  We thank YOU, GREAT & MIGHTY GOD for by YOUR mercies and grace we were taught the sanctity of the weekly day of rest, Sabbath is the sign of the tie that binds us to YOU.  Keep us ever grateful and grant us YOUR perfect rest. Amen  
  Shabbos calls us to bring the highest moral values to our daily labor and to culminate the workweek with kedushah (holiness), menuchah (rest), and oneg (joy).  May GOD, WHOSE grace is irresistible and all sufficient, be glorified.  O come! O come EMMANU'EL! 

 Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Life is not a matter of chance, it's a matter of choice — "Choose Wisely." 

NEW YEARS MEDITATION      
O ETERNAL ONE, WHO gives meaning to the strivings of men, attune our hearts for communion with YOU.  Open my lips, and my mouth shall declare YOUR praises.  YOU are Holy, and YOUR NAME is holy and YOUR worshipers proclaim YOUR holiness.  Praised are YOU, O LORD GOD. 

O LIVING GOD, YOU are blessed, my KING, my HELPER, my SAVIOR & SHIELD.  YOU, O LORD, are mighty forever; YOU quicken the dead, YOU are mighty to save.  YOU sustain the living with lovingkindness, quicken the dead with great mercy, support the falling, heal the sick, loose the bound and keep YOUR faith to them that sleep in the dust. 

How often, when everything else fails us, do we yearn for YOU, our MIGHTY CREATOR.  In the stillness of the night, in the press of the crowd, in the agony of inner conflict, we bow our heads, and at that moment, YOU are in our hearts and we are at peace. 

We do not know, O MERCIFUL LORD, whether the gifts for which we ask are for our good, whether our trials and tribulations may not be blessings in disguise, whether even the fragments of our shattered hopes and dreams may not minister to the up-building of other lives and the fulfillment of YOUR unfathomable plan.  So we do not pray that YOU make our lives easy, to give us happiness without adversity.  Rather we pray that YOU continue to help us to be uncomplaining and unafraid.  Teach us to face life with faith and courage that we may see the blessings hidden away even in its conflicts and struggles.  Help us to find victory in the discipline of pain transforming all things into loving obedience.  May we seek the face of GOD because HE is GOD. 

May we realize that life calls us, not merely to enjoy the fatness of the earth, but to rejoice in heights attained after the toil of climbing.  Then, our darkness will be illumined by YOUR GLORIOUS LIGHT and our weakness made strong by YOUR strength, lifting us above fear and defeat, and sustaining our steps with an immortal hope. 

The ALMIGHTY ONE is HOPE to them that wait for HIM, JOY to the  Land of Israel, GLADNESS to the City of Jerusalem, and a FLOURISHING HORN to HIS servants.  The SON OF JESSE, the ANOINTED ROCK OF AGES, is a CLEAR SHINING LIGHT to those who fear HIM.  O, give glory and praise to the LORD GOD OMNIPOTENT! 

Then shall the just also see and be glad, and the upright shall exult, and the pious triumphantly rejoice, while iniquity shall close her mouth, and all wickedness shall be wholly consumed like smoke, when YOU LORD my GOD make the dominion of arrogance to pass away from the earth. 

 And YOU, O ALMIGHTY LORD, shall reign, YOU alone over all YOUR works on Mount Zion, the dwelling place of YOUR glory, and in Jerusalem, YOUR Holy City, as it is recorded in YOUR HOLY WRITTEN WORD, "The LORD shall reign forever, your GOD, O Zion, for all generations. HalleluYAH." [Psalms (Tehillym) 146. 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Highly exalted and praised are YOU, O LORD our ETERNAL GOD, the STAY & TRUST of the righteous. Amen! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Shalom Shabbat, may the ALMIGHTY ONE, WHO separates the holy from the secular, forgive our sins, guide our life, and fill our upcoming week with HIS DIVINE PRESENCE.  
  Refresh yourself and others through HIS wisdom & discernment, love & kindness — that you continue to experience some of the sweetness of Sabbath daily.  "Now to HIM WHO is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the PRESENCE OF HIS GLORY with exceeding joy, to GOD our SAVIOR WHO alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever, Amen!" [Jude 25]  
  As we enter another year, we hold you in our hearts — please know, you are in our daily prayers! May GOD be with you and strengthen you, giving you wisdom, discernment, mercy and grace!  
  "Tov Shavua — Have a good week!"  The LORD bless and keep you throughout the coming days of the new year!  Go with GOD! 


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Peace is not the absence of pain.  Peace is not the absence of pressure.  Peace is confidence that the ALMIGHTY CREATOR knows what HE is doing and allowing HIM to reign and guide your life.  "Fear the LORD and the king.  Do not join with the rebellious, for disaster and destruction comes sudden from those two that are given to change; who knows the doom and calamity they can bring?" [Proverbs/Mishle 24. 21 – 22] . . . The precise proverb for biased rulers, it comes with warning for those subject to change. 

ATONEMENT PRAYER FOR THE NEW YEAR      
  O LORD, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare YOUR praises.  YOU are blessed, O LORD our GOD and GOD of our fathers, GOD of Abraham, GOD of Isaac, and GOD of Jacob, the great, mighty and revered GOD, the MOST HIGH GOD, WHO bestows lovingkindness, and possesses all things, who remembers the pious deeds of the patriarchs, and in love will bring the REDEEMER to their children’s children for YOUR REVERED NAME’S sake. 

 Remember us unto life, O KING, WHO delights in life, and inscribe us in the BOOK OF LIFE, for YOUR OWN sake, O LIVING GOD.  O KING, HELPER, SAVIOR & SHIELD.  Blessed are YOU, O LORD, the SHIELD of Abraham.  YOU, O LORD, are mighty forever; YOU quicken the dead, YOU are mighty to save. 

 LORD, YOU sustain the living with lovingkindness, quicken the dead with great mercy, support the falling, heal the sick, loose the bound, and keep YOUR faithfulness to them that sleep in the dust.  Who is like YOU, LORD of mighty acts, and who resembles YOU, O KING, WHO kills and quickens, and causes salvation to spring forth? 

 Who is like YOU, FATHER OF MERCY, WHO in mercy remembers YOUR creatures unto life?  Yes! faithful are YOU to quicken the dead.  Blessed are YOU, O LORD, WHO quickens the dead.  YOU are holy and YOUR NAME is "HOLY" and holy beings praise YOU daily. Selah 

 Now, therefore, O LORD GOD, CAPTAIN OF THE HOST OF THE LORD, impose YOUR awe upon all YOUR works, and YOUR dread upon all that YOU have created, that all works may fear YOU and all creatures prostrate themselves before YOU that they may all form a single band to do YOUR will with a perfect heart, even as we know, O LORD our GOD, that dominion is YOURS, strength is in YOUR hand, and might in YOUR right hand, and that YOUR NAME is to be feared above all that YOU have created. 

 Give then glory, O LORD, unto YOUR people, praise to them that fear YOU, hope to them that seek YOU, and free speech to them that wait for YOU, joy to YOUR land, gladness to YOUR City, a flourishing horn to David YOUR servant, and a clear shining light to the SON of Jesse, YOUR ANOINTED, speedily and in our days. 

 Then shall the just also see and be glad, and the upright shall exult, and the pious triumphantly rejoice, while iniquity shall close her mouth, and all wickedness shall be wholly consumed like smoke, when YOU, my EVERLASTING PRAISE, make the dominion of arrogance to pass away from the earth. 

 And YOU, O LORD, shall reign, YOU alone over all YOUR works on Mount Zion, the dwelling place of YOUR wondrous splendor, and in Jerusalem, YOUR Holy City, as it is written in YOUR HOLY WORDS, "The LORD shall reign forever, your GOD, O Zion, unto all generations. HalleluYAH." [Psalms (Tehillym) 146. 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

 LORD GOD, YOU are holy, and dreaded is YOUR NAME, and there is no god beside YOU, as it is written — "And the LORD OF HOSTS is exalted by judgment, the HOLY GOD OF CREATION is sanctified in righteousness, proved holy by justice." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 5. 16 Tanakh, Nevi'im]  Blessed are YOU, O LORD, the GLORIOUS HOLY KING. 

 YOU have chosen us from all peoples, YOU have loved us and taken pleasure in us, and have exalted us above all tongues; YOU have sanctified us by YOUR commandments, and brought us near unto YOUR services, O our KING, and have called us by YOUR GREAT & HALLOWED NAME.  Blessed be the MAGNIFICENT NAME OF OUR LORD.  Amen 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Our prayer: "FATHER, we ask YOU to bless our friends and family as we enter another year of service to YOU, the CHAMPION DEFENDER of our faith.  We humbly ask YOU to minister to their spirit.  Where there is pain, give them YOUR peace and mercy.  Where there is self-doubting, release a renewed confidence in YOUR ability to work through them.  Those who are tired and exhausted, we ask YOU to give them understanding, patience and strength as they learn submission to YOUR leading.  Where there is spiritual stagnation, we ask YOU, LORD GOD to reveal YOUR nearness, drawing them into a greater intimacy with YOU.  Where there is fear, reveal YOUR love and release to them YOUR boldness and courage.  Where there is a sin blocking that intimate relationship with YOU, reveal it and break its hold over our loved one's life.  Bless their finances, give them greater vision and raise up leaders and more friends to support and encourage them.  Give each of our cherished ones discernment to recognize the evil forces around them and reveal to them the mighty power they have in YOU to defeat the foes. This we ask of YOU in the precious name of Y’SHUA, the MESSIAH & KING." 

 May the LORD Y’SHUA dwell in your heart and keep you rooted and grounded in love and fill you with all the glorious blessings from GOD MOST HIGH.  
 "Now to HIM WHO is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the PRESENCE OF HIS GLORY with exceeding joy, to GOD our SAVIOR WHO alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever, Amen!" [Jude 25] 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
This world is like an Inn; the world-to-come, like Home! 

A CHRISTMAS MEDITATION 
WHO was this who was born on that far-off CHRISTmas Day? What manner of CHILD was this whose first bed was a rude, dusty manger? Did anyone know? 

Yes! Miryam (Mary) knew. Scarcely more than a child though she was, her soul was exalted beyond our imagining as she listened to the announcement of the angel, "That HOLY CHILD which shall be born of you shall be called the SON OF GOD!" 

Joseph also knew, direct from an angel. The wise men knew. . . drawn from the far corners of the earth as by a magnet. The angels knew, and all the wide golden streets of heaven were crowded with them, their faces shining with joy, and their chorus of rejoicing rising again and again, "Glory to GOD in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!" Even the living stars knew. And, one of their number was appointed to hang in luminous beauty over the spot where the YOUNG CHILD lay. 

The world, the one most concerned, the world — then as now before HIS second coming, went blindly on its way. But, thanks to ETERNAL GOD, you and I not only know, but incredible wonder of wonders, we have a personal relationship with that PERFECT ONE WHO left HIS ivory palaces and the glory which HE had with ALMIGHTY GOD before the earth was, and walked here awhile in humiliation. 

We know that ALMIGHTY GOD HIMSELF spoke from heaven saying, "This is MY BELOVED SON, in WHOM I am well pleased!" SON OF GOD, KING of kings and LORD of lords! The GREAT DESIGNER and CREATOR of the Universe, for without HIM was nothing made that was made. Our GREAT HIGH PRIEST, ever living to make intercession for us. SIN-BEARER, and yet future JUDGE, for all judgment is committed unto the BELOVED ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON; the CAPTAIN of our salvation, the AUTHOR & FINISHER of our faith, the BRIGHT & MORNING STAR, the RESURRECTION & LIFE! 

CHRISTmas reminds us of the incredible message that GOD not only has a name, but a face! As instructed, Miryam (Mary) called HIM, "Y’SHUA (SAVIOR..."for besides ME, there is no SAVIOR, says YEHOWAH" Isaiah/Yeshayah 43:11) HIS NAME is also called: "WONDERFUL (PELE: secret, mysterious, a marvel, extraordinary, a wonder, something hard to understand), COUNSELOR (YAH'ATS), MIGHTY GOD (GIBOWR'EL), EVERLASTING FATHER (AD AB), PRINCE OF PEACE (SAR SHALOWM)." [Isaiah/Yeshayah 9. 6] 

"NO ROOM FOR HIM AT THE INN!" Could any inn contain the LORD OF GLORY? The wonder is that the walls of that small stable did not part and stretch far, far away to the ends of the universe in a vain effort to make a dwelling place vast enough to house INFINITY! 

Yet this same sinless, INCOMPARABLE, UNSURPASSED ONE suffered indescribable tortures because of HIS great love for you and me! For long dreadful hours the LORD JESUS hung upon the cross, bearing the guilt and shame of my sins and the sins of all the world. HE conquered death and hell for me...HE walks the earth with me...HE has given heaven to me! 

It is too much, I cannot grasp such amazing depths of love. I can only remove the shoes from off my feet and bow in silent adoration at the door of that little stable in Bethlehem and worship my SAVIOR, my GOD, MESSIAH Y’SHUA, my LORD & KING! 

How wonderful. . . INFINITE GOD became an INFANT; the GREAT GIVER became THE GIFT. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Merry CHRISTmas! Let us celebrate our BELOVED LORD Y’SHUA by entering into HIS PRESENCE & LIGHT with thanksgiving and praise to the KING OF GLORY. This season, remember the ONE WHO entered the world and called your name. Let others see that you follow HIM. Love them by sharing HIS peace. After all, CHRISTmas is not about us. . . it's about HIM. 
Our prayer for each of you is to have firsthand knowledge of our living salvation through our GREAT MESSIAH, KING Y’SHUA Who'S coming to earth we celebrate. 
A Joyous CHRISTmas blessings to each of you. May mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance. And, may you share wonderful holy-days together with friends and family. 
As the CHRISTmas lights also point us toward the future, we also pray that the flame of the LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH burn brightly in your heart as you share HIS light with others. 
We have an obligation to extend the light to everyone around us, especially those held captive by the darkness of sin. So as you celebrate the LIGHT OF THE WORLD bring hope and blessings to others. This is a joyous time of celebration for family and friends gatherings during this time of remembering miracles and giving thanks to the ALMIGHTY for HIS wondrous love and provisions. Let us join together and pray as you celebrate GOD’S great miracle of victoriously overcoming all darkness and HIS glorious reign in our lives. 
Wishing you CHRISTmas Sameach (Joy)! 
With all our love, Rabbi Del & Rifkah 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
CHRIST-like-ones are a privileged people, and this greatly raises the possibilities of our living in tough times. We are called to stride through life with a degree of regal bearing, not stumbling, not staggering, but treading over what other people sink under. 

BRIGHTENING PATH OF PAIN 
"There is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the LORD, the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved HIS appearing." [2 Timothy 4. 8] 

It is such a blessing to know that the MIGHTY CREATOR makes no mistakes, that our illness is not something that just happened to you. "Shall the thing framed say to HIM that framed it, HE has no understanding?" [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 29. 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im] NO! the enduring is yours, without a doubt, but the responsibility for it is entirely HIS, and what a difference that makes! Nothing can even touch the child of GOD without HIS permissive will. It is not necessary for us to know the reason, for they are safe with our dear, wonderful OMNIPOTENT CREATOR, "in WHOM are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." [Colossians 2. 3] 

Surely the BLESSED MAKER & REDEEMER will also be glad when these trials are all over and HE will no longer have to watch HIS children suffer, when all tears will be wiped from our eyes, and a song put upon our lips. Until then, can’t we "endure hardship, as a good soldier of CHRIST JESUS" [2 Timothy 2. 3], and spare HIM the sound of our wailing? Sometimes, the LORD GOD'S response comes in a Still Small Voice, and we must listen in order to hear it. At other times, we can even feel ourselves resting quietly in HIS mighty hand. 

Each day must be lived with expectancy as though it were to be our last, and there is so much to be done, to purify ourselves and set our houses in order. ALMIGHTY GOD'S mercy is renewed with each new day — "The kindness of the LORD is not ended, HIS mercies are not spent. They are renewed every morning — great is YOUR faithfulness and grace!" [Lamentations (Ekhah) 3. 22 - 23 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

O LORD GOD, YOUR quickening power, YOUR strengthening grace, YOUR mercy LORD is so needed for those who sin and go astray, and those who sorrow. And, YOU provide cherished rest for those who toil. For this, we thank you freely, abundantly and without measure. 

May the MERCIFUL ONE'S loving and protective wings arch over each of you as HIS footsteps come ever nearer. Tomorrow's tasks, old pain, and old memories are forgotten as into HIS gentle hand we drift on a sea of peace — to sleep — then awake to see the blessed face of the HOLY BELOVED ONE! 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
O LORD GOD, pardon our many transgressions against YOU, remove our guilt and blot out our iniquities just as YOU promised: I, even I, blot out your iniquities for MY OWN sake, and your sins I will remember no more. I have made your sins to vanish like a cloud and your transgressions like a mist; return to ME for I have redeemed you. I will forgive and cleanse you from all your sins when you turn to ME with your whole heart. 
May you receive blessings in abundance as you rest and fellowship in glorious praises to the LORD GOD of heaven!! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.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 majesty (honor & 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.  Y’SHUA is beautiful, glorious, excellent and comely. . . all together lovely.  "But, a ROD (Hebrew: choter ) shall come forth, a BRANCH (Hebrew: netzer — descendant, branch) 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 truth, wisdom and understanding, the SPIRIT of counsel and might, the SPIRIT of knowledge and of the reverential fear of the LORD (Seven SPIRITS OF GOD)." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 11. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Interestingly, one of the Hebrew words for branch is "netzer" meaning the place of the branch, branching forth, descendant."  Y’SHUA was raised in the city of Nazareth (netzeret), fulfilling the prophecy that says MESSIAH would be "called a Nazarene (a BRANCH)." [Matthew 2. 23]  There are two references in Jeremiah and two in Zechariah calling Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH, "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 Y’SHUA 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 Y’SHUA 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 Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH appeared to be inconspicuous and unattractive.  "For HE has grown, by HIS favor, 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, Y’SHUA'S branches, are to be like HE was in the world.  If CHRIST JESUS is not our LORD, we are nothing. . . HE is everything wonderful! 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  We gratefully acknowledge, O LORD, our GOD, that YOU are our CREATOR and PRESERVER, the ROCK of our life and the SHIELD of our help.  We give thanks to YOU for our lives which are in YOUR hand, for our souls which are ever in YOUR keeping, for YOUR wondrous providence and for YOUR continuous goodness, which YOU give us day after day.  Truly, YOUR mercies never fail and YOUR loving-kindness never ceases.  Therefore do we forever put our trust in YOU! 
  I thank YOU LORD for saving my soul!  May the flame of Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH burn brightly in your heart as you share HIS light with others, not only this CHRISTmas but every day. 


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Freedom can also set evil free. . . one can only be truly free when he does what he should do. 

WISDOM FROM GOD    
"But of HIM (MESSIAH) you are in CHRIST JESUS, WHO became for us wisdom from GOD — and righteousness and sanctification and redemption." [1 Corinthians 1. 30] 

The term "became" is a most fascinating word, depicted in many different ways — "is made, to become, be assembled, caused to be, be, begin to be."  All are from the Greek word, "ginomai (pronounced: ghin’-om-ahee)." 

This term,  would also apply to the work of MESSIAH, when HE called the universe into being.  "All things were made through HIM, and without HIM nothing was made that was made. In HIM was life, and the life was the light of men.  And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it." [John 1. 3 - 5]  "By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the WORD OF GOD, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible." [Hebrews 11. 3]   "By the WORD OF THE LORD the heavens were made, by the breath of HIS mouth, all their host...For HE spoke, and it was; HE commanded, and it stood fast." [Psalms/Tehillym 33. 6, 9] 

Frequently, the phrase is also to denote the marvelous work of MESSIAH in and through the believing CHRISTian. . . HE became wisdom to us who lack wisdom; HE is made our righteousness, although we were sinners.  We who are unholy receive our sanctification in YESHUA; and when we were lost, dead in sin, HE became our REDEEMER.  "But as many as received HIM, to them HE gave the right to become children of GOD, to those who believe in HIS NAME: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of GOD." [John 1. 12 – 13] 

All this, and so much more was made possible for us by  HIS great sacrifice, love and grace:  "In CHRIST JESUS you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of CHRIST.  For HE HIMSELF is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, having abolished in HIS flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in HIMSELF one new man...For through HIM we both have access by one SPIRIT to the FATHER." [Ephesians 2. 13 – 15, 18]  Now we are "justified by HIS grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life." [Titus 3. 7]  "And from JESUS CHRIST, the FAITHFUL WITNESS, the firstborn from the dead, and the RULER over the kings of the earth...HIM WHO loved us and washed us from our sins in HIS OWN blood, and has made us kings and priests to HIS GOD and FATHER." [Revelation 1. 5 – 6] 


When we receive Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH as our SAVIOR & LORD, old things are passed away and "he is a new creation…all things have become new." [2 Corinthians 5. 17]  All these wonderful attributes are given to us and accessible right now by faith, and will be accomplished, not in part, but in full perfection when the LORD OF GLORY returns and "we shall be like HIM, for we shall see HIM as HE is.  And everyone who has this hope in HIM purifies himself, just as HE is pure." [1 John 3. 2 – 3] 

Won’t you come to HIM now and become a joint-heir with the MASTER OF THE UNIVERSE, HE’S waiting. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Welcoming Sabbath, Sabbath of Vayrchi – “And He Lived” [Reading: Genesis 47:28 - 50:26; 1 Kings 2:1-12; John 13:1-19] 
  Sabbath rest, a time to focus on each other, our children, and friends.  Sabbath provides us the time to treasure our WONDERFUL LORD GOD OF HEAVEN.  May you find a rest of love freely given, a rest of truth and sincerity, a rest in peace and tranquility, in quiet and safety, a perfect rest in which you find favor.  
  MOST HOLY ONE, YOU are blessed beyond all hymns, praises & consolations that may be uttered in this world.  May peace lavishly descend from heaven with life for us and all Israel. . . YOU are our JOY, our HOPE and our PEACE.  Thank YOU for giving us Y’SHUA the REDEEMER that through HIM we may have true peace and rest.  
  Our prayer is that you know the ONE WHO gives perfect peace!  May mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.  Also, that the flame of the LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH burn brightly in your heart as you share HIS light with others.  Walk joyously and boldly in the light and warmth of ALMIGHTY GOD'S compelling love; and may the HOLY ONE, the HOPE OF ISRAEL, fill you with HIS wonderful peace and indescribable happiness. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Honor, worship, and glorify Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH, the BUILDER of the sky, the HANGER of the spheres, the MAKER of the wind and rain, the MASTER of the impossible. 

WORSHIP HIM     
"When HE again brings the FIRSTBORN into the world, HE says — Let all the angels of GOD worship HIM." [Hebrews 1. 6] 

JESUS the CHRIST is "the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, which is in the bosom of the father" [John 1. 8], but the day finally came when HE had to enter humankind, and the ETERNAL WORD "was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld HIS glory, the glory as of the ONLY BEGOTTEN of the FATHER full of grace and truth." [John 1. 14]  Fulfilling the OLD COVENANT prophesy — "The PRESENCE (glory, Hebrew: kabod) of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh, as one, shall behold — for the mouth of the LORD has spoken." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 40. 5 Tanakh, Nevi’im]  By eternal generation, by the incarnation, by the virgin birth, and by the resurrection, HE is in every significance GOD’S FIRST BEGOTTEN — ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON. 

So, when Y’SHUA first entered the world, born of a virgin (Hebrew: alma: engaged virgin), HIS HEAVENLY FATHER called on all the innumerable angles in the heavenly host to bow down and worship HIM.  There are several other MESSIANIC prophecies as applied to YESHUA ha'MASHIACH.   "Rejoice, O Nations, with HIS people!  For HE will avenge the blood of HIS servants, wreak vengeance to HIS adversaries; and HE will provide atonement for HIS Land and HIS people, and wipe away HIS people’s tears." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 32. 43 Tanakh, Torah]  "Bless the LORD, O HIS angels, who excel in strength, who do HIS WORD, ever obedient to the voice of HIS WORD.  Bless the LORD, all HIS hosts, HIS servants who do HIS will and HIS pleasure.  Bless the LORD, all HIS works, through the length and breadth of HIS dominion; bless the LORD, O my soul." [Psalms (Tehillym) 103. 20 - 22 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  

However, it is a specific decree of GOD, proclaimed throughout the universe at the time of the human birth of HIS SON, and recorded in the Hebrew Text.  All the angels of the infinite cosmos bowed in solemn worship, but a special contingent was commissioned to watch directly over the birth, and proclaim the GOOD NEWS to those nearby, "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising GOD and saying — "Glory to GOD in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" [Luke 2. 13 - 14]   The angles saw and worshipped, the shepherds heard and made it widely known.  And "and all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds." [Luke 2. 18]   May each of us do likewise — glorify and praise the GREAT LOVING LORD GOD for all the things we have heard, and seen, and experienced...and bow down and worship the MAGNIFICENT KING OF THE UNIVERSE. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  May you be a witnesses of GOD'S care, love, and glorious presence through the days ahead.  Enter each day with joy in our hearts and confidence that our SOVEREIGN KING rules and reigns.  And, because of HIS great mercy, HE will continue to use us as HIS messengers of the GOOD NEWS to the perplexed and depraved world around us — our IMMANU’EL, the ANOINTED ONE OF GOD is with us!  
  We trust that you are having an unforgettable and joyous Christmas - blessings to each of you. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
May your fear of the ALMIGHTY CREATOR GOD be greater than your fear of man. 

SHAKEN EARTH     
"And men shall enter caverns in the rock and hollows in the ground — before the terror of the LORD and HIS dread majesty, when HE comes forth to shake terribly and overawe the earth." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 2. 19 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

From the time of the "Great Flood" when only Noah and his family were saved, the earth has been in a state of instability and distress with many earthquakes all over the world.  The earthquakes that are to come, however, will exceed anything ever yet experienced. 

There is a "Great Earthquake" also prophesied in the Book of Revelation, "I looked when HE opened the sixth seal, and behold, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became like blood.  And the stars of heaven fell to the earth, as a fig tree drops its late figs when it is shaken by a mighty wind.  Then the sky receded as a scroll when it is rolled up, and every mountain and island was moved out of its place.  And the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains, and said to the mountains and rocks, "Fall on us and hide us from the face of HIM WHO sits on the Throne and from the wrath of the LAMB!  For the Great Day of HIS wrath has come, and who is able to stand?" [Revelation 6. 12 - 17]  When the ALMIGHTY ONE judges the earth, those who reject the love of the MESSIAH Y’SHUA, the BLESSED REDEEMER, will definitely remain unrepentant and will simply attempt to flee HIS anger, never turning in repentance to HIM WHO alone can offer saving grace. 

The HIGH & LOFTY GOD OF HEAVEN is long-suffering.  Nevertheless, "the Great Day of HIS wrath" will come! [Revelation 6. 17]  For the LORD OF HOSTS declares, "In just a little while longer I will shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land.  I will shake all the nations.  And the precious things of all the nations shall come here, and I will fill this House with glory, said the LORD OF HOSTS." [Haggai (Chagai) 2. 6 - 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im]   "The earth is breaking, utterly breaking down; the earth is crumbling, clean dissolved; the earth is tottering, moving exceedingly; the earth is swaying like a drunkard; it is rocking to-and-fro like a hut.  Its iniquity shall weigh it down, and it shall fall, to rise no more." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 24. 19 - 20 Tanakh, Nevi'im]  Finally there will come "a great earthquake, such a mighty and great earthquake as had not occurred since men were on the earth...and the cities of the nations fell…and every island fled away, and the mountains were not found." [Revelation 16. 18 - 20] 

If you belong to Y’SHUA, the LORD & KING, however, you will be delivered from HIS wrath which is coming and only those things which cannot be shaken may remain.  In HIM alone, our REFUGE, can we stand.  "HE WHO testifies to these things says, Surely I am coming quickly.  Amen! Even so, come LORD JESUS!  The grace of our LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA be with you all. Amen" [Revelation 22. 20 - 21] 

Take the SAVIOR at HIS WORD, keep your sense of seriousness and you won’t lose your sense of wonder for HIS provision. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  We bow the head and bend the knee and magnify the KING of kings, the HOLY ONE, praised be HE.  Rejoice with inexpressible joy all who by faith have received the LORD Y’SHUA — the ULTIMATE, INDESCRIBABLE GIFT, our JOY & HOPE of Glory. Amen!  We are eternally thanking GOD for HIS unfathomable kindness  
  Be blessed as you serve the KING of kings this CHRISTmas!  Unto us, a CHILD was born…such an extraordinarily wondrous CHRISTmas GIFT! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes.  Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness.

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com