Re: Delrifkah: HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY.

Admin Wed 17 Jul 2019, 8:15 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
When passion burns within you, remember that it was given to you for a good purpose.

UNTIL IT PLEASES
"I adjure you, O maidens of Jerusalem, by gazelles or by hinds of the field; do not wake or arouse love until it pleases!" [Song of Songs (Shir ha'Shirim) 2. 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

CREATOR GOD, blessed be HE and blessed be HIS HOLY NAME, has such a high view of sex that HE will not permit it to be cheapened by lust. Therefore, not even acts of foreplay are permitted. Sexual passion must be handled with utmost care and must not be aroused before its proper time when it can be satisfied and fulfilled.

"Dearly beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul." [1 Peter 2. 11] The commandments to "abstain, not to stir up, nor awaken love until its proper time" is especially fitting and relevant for believing true followers of MESSIAH today. "For this is the will of GOD, for your sanctification, that you should abstain from sexual immorality." [1 Thessalonians 4. 3] This applies to any type of sexual relationship outside of marriage, and the commands are not merely for moderation or for love in one's non-marital sexual relationships, but for total abstinence.

This warning is needed more today than any time since the days of pagan Rome. We are also urgently warned to "abstain from fleshly lusts" since these carnal desires are in a mortal battle with our very souls. One must avoid situations which might initiate or encourage forbidden sex or its similar activities.

We are commanded to "warn those who are unruly...abstain from ALL appearance of evil" in every form. [1 Thessalonians 5. 14, 22] This means anything that might appear to be evil, regardless of whether it is really wrong in itself or not. The LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA desires that we "adorn the doctrine of GOD our SAVIOR in all things" [Titus 2:10], and that we "give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed." [2 Corinthians 6. 3]

A believer cannot afford to be careless in this warfare against his soul. "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." [1 Peter 5. 8] Sex is part of GOD'S creation with its related desires and pleasures, and it is reasonable that HE would provide us with a guide to a pure sexual relationship. "Whatever you do, do all to the glory of GOD." [1 Corinthians 10. 31] In all things, focus on the ways of wisdom, give your ear to understanding that you may maintain as well as value discretion, and your lips keep knowledge.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
The HOLY ONE was pleased, for HIS righteousness sake, to magnify the TORAH and make it honorable; thus the wise will search it out. May the LORD GOD hold you in the palm of HIS tender out-stretched hand and direct your every step!

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

Admin Tue 16 Jul 2019, 4:39 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Logic is like gold ore in the ground mixed with sand and rock; Wisdom is the mercury used to extract the gold.

STONES OF REMEMBRANCE
"Take two lazuli stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel: Six of their names on the one stone, and the names of the remaining six on the other stone, in the order of their birth. On the two stones you shall make seal engravings — the work of a lapidary — of the names of the sons of Israel. Having bordered them with frames of gold, attach the two stones to the shoulder-pieces of the ephod, as Stones for Remembrance of the Israelite people, whose names Aaron shall carry upon his two shoulder-pieces for remembrance before the LORD." [Exodus (Shemot) 28. 9 - 12 Tanakh, Torah]

Just as the stones were secured on the shoulders of the HIGH PRIEST, MESSIAH Y’SHUA bears those HE has redeemed upon HIS shoulders [Isaiah/Yeshayah 9. 6] which is the place of courage and strength. HE promises, "I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you with MY victorious right hand." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 41. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im] The ministry of NEW COVENANT priests is to bear one another's burdens [Galatians 6. 2] — the strong bearing the infirmities of the weak. [Romans 15. 1] We are commanded to pray for one another and to strengthen one another in the LORD. [Luke 22. 32; James 5. 16]

Not only does the shoulder signify courage and strength, but it is the place representing leadership of government and is in open or public view. The LORD JESUS leads HIS people, they are DIVINELY governed; HIS ministry is to HIS people, open and public.

There was a certain arrangement and a certain stone to be placed on the High Priest's shoulders. Six names of the sons of Israel were engraved in an onyx (lazuli) stone on one shoulder, and six names of the sons of Israel were engraved in another onyx (lazuli) stone on the other "according to birth."

The names are associated with the stones as a very part of them for they were engraved permanently there. Each of the names had the same kind of stone. . . no difference. Each of us who are sons of the MOST HOLY LORD GOD, born into GOD'S Kingdom of priests, are the same; we are equally recognized in Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH according to our New Birth. We are each engraved on the same kind of stone, encased in gold, brilliant, flashing with the luster of the fiery HOLY SPIRIT, lifted high upon the shoulders of our great HIGH PRIEST, borne up above the earthly ties and boundaries to a place in the heavenlies! There is a precious truth told in the meaning of these names. {Note: We will draw attention to just the first and last names, which are all-inclusive.}

"According to birth" tells us that since Reuben was the firstborn of Israel (Jacob), his name engraved first in order on the shoulder stone. Reuben means "behold (see) a son." This directs our attention to the GREATER SON, the PRECIOUS LORD JESUS. The angels announced HIS birth in Beit'Lehem; the prophet Isaiah declared of HIM, "A CHILD is born, a SON is given." The ALMIGHTY OMNIPOTENT ONE informed the disciples concerning CHRIST, "This is MY BELOVED SON, in whom I am well pleased. Hear HIM!" [Matthew 17. 5] And who of GOD'S people can forget that most precious verse, "GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON." [John 3. 16] "Reuben! Behold, a SON!"

The last name on the shoulder stones was Benjamin. Remember the story of his birth? Rachel, because she was dying, named him "Benoni" — "son of my sorrow." But Jacob (Israel) named him "Benjamin" — "son of my right hand." JESUS OF NAZARETH was born into this world and fulfilled the first name, BENONI, for HE was a MAN of sorrows, acquainted with grief. MESSIAH Y’SHUA was despised and rejected of men; HE suffered, bled and died, the SON OF SORROW. Benjamin was the only son named by his father, Israel. Son of my right hand signifies an exalted and honored place — in an equal position. The LORD Y’SHUA gave HIS life (ONE PERFECT SACRIFICE for sins forever) and is now seated at the right hand of the ETERNAL & TRUE SUPREME GOD in an exalted, honoured place. The HEAVENLY FATHER says of JESUS, the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, "BENJAMIN! SON OF MY RIGHT HAND!"

Through the regenerating power of the HOLY SPIRIT, we are born of the MOST HIGH & LOFTY EVER-LIVING ONE and given the right to be the sons of GOD. The GREATER SON, our LORD & MESSIAH, rejoices in the presence of the angels when a sinner receives HIM. And, it is as though all heaven rejoices with CHRIST JESUS when they see this take place. Now it can be said of this sinner, "Reuben! Behold, a son!"

After this new birth, there is joy and yet there is sorrow for the dying soul of men as we enter into "the fellowship of HIS sufferings." But, if we suffer with our WONDERFUL REDEEMER, we shall also reign with HIM in glory. We can only wear the "golden crown" at last IF we were able to wear the "thorny one" first. As sons in THE SON will be exalted to the position that YESHUA assured: Blessed is the man who endures to the END. . . he shall receive a Crown of Life. [James 1. 12] "To him that overcomes I will grant to sit with ME on MY Throne." [Revelation 3. 21] Then, in that day, the LORD GOD OF HOST will say to us, "Benjamin! son of MY right hand!" May we all be richly blessed by hearing those words spoken to us.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
May this day be a life-changing experience as you consider your latter end and turn to the LIVING GOD of all grace and mercy! Our beloved friends, our prayer is that the ETERNAL GOD OF HEAVEN will hear our prayer and give us a renewed spiritual awakening, increase our love and brotherhood among us thru MESSIAH Y’SHUA, HIS SON.
Our prayer is that your life be filled with GOD’S peace and abundantly rich blessings. May the HOLY CREATOR ever be praised for HIS mercy and loving-kindness to us.

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. . .
Make not of the TORAH a crown wherewith to aggrandize yourself, nor a spade wherewith to dig.

DULL MINDED
"For the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, so that I should heal them." [Matthew 13. 15] "Hear, indeed, but do not understand; see, indeed, but do not grasp. Dull that people's mind, stop its ears, and seal its eyes — lest, seeing with its eyes and hearing with their ears, it also grasp with their mind, and repent and be saved." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 6. 9 – 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

In HIS early ministry, the MESSIAH Y’SHUA ran into stubborn opposition from the Scribes and Pharisees. Therefore, HE told the people about heavenly truths in parables so only the believers would understand. "It has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given." [Matthew 13. 11] Parables also fulfill prophecy, "that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying — I will open MY mouth in parables; I will utter things kept secret from the foundation of the world." [Matthew 13. 35]

This explains the progressive nature of OMNISCIENT GOD'S revelation to man, knowledge should be used to grow in grace and apply it in their life. However, if their hearing grows dull and they turn knowledge off willfully, it becomes a vehicle of condemnation, their perception is lost and discernment is gone because "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." [Romans 1. 28]

Our prayers for you are "that the GOD of our LORD JESUS, the FATHER of Glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of HIM" [Ephesians 1:17] as HE cleanses your hearts from all wickedness. Ask of HIM, and the LORD GOD will give you a learned tongue to speak a word in season to those who are weary. HE will awaken your ear to learning, and open your ear that you may obey HIS directions for your life, lest you rebel and turn away from the LOVING AWESOME MASTER of mercy and truth. [see Isaiah/Yeshayah 50. 4 – 5]

The GREAT ALMIGHTY GOD and Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH, our LORD & SAVIOR desires "all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." [1 Timothy 2. 4] "Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of GOD! How unsearchable are HIS judgments and HIS ways past finding out!" [Romans 11. 33] "Great is the LORD and much acclaimed; HIS greatness cannot be fathomed." [Psalms (Tehillym) 145. 3 Tanakh, Kethuvim] To GOD be the glory forever, Amen.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Our prayer is the LIVING FOUNTAIN refresh and sustain each of you, as you grow in HIS strength, wisdom and discernment. May the LIGHT of the HOLY ONE, blessed be HE, fill you with a yearning desire to submit to HIS inscrutable will and give you enduring power for your daily tasks. O LORD GOD OF JACOB, YOU are my GOD...in the night how my soul desires and hungers for YOU. I long for YOUR irreproachable judgments in the earth, for the world to learn of YOUR integrity, YOUR majesty and YOUR righteousness

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

Admin Mon 15 Jul 2019, 11:14 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Logic is like gold ore in the ground mixed with sand and rock; Wisdom is the mercury used to extract the gold.

STONES OF REMEMBRANCE
"Take two lazuli stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel: Six of their names on the one stone, and the names of the remaining six on the other stone, in the order of their birth. On the two stones you shall make seal engravings — the work of a lapidary — of the names of the sons of Israel. Having bordered them with frames of gold, attach the two stones to the shoulder-pieces of the ephod, as Stones for Remembrance of the Israelite people, whose names Aaron shall carry upon his two shoulder-pieces for remembrance before the LORD." [Exodus (Shemot) 28. 9 - 12 Tanakh, Torah]

Just as the stones were secured on the shoulders of the HIGH PRIEST, MESSIAH Y’SHUA bears those HE has redeemed upon HIS shoulders [Isaiah/Yeshayah 9. 6] which is the place of courage and strength. HE promises, "I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you with MY victorious right hand." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 41. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im] The ministry of NEW COVENANT priests is to bear one another's burdens [Galatians 6. 2] — the strong bearing the infirmities of the weak. [Romans 15.. 1] We are commanded to pray for one another and to strengthen one another in the LORD. [Luke 22. 32; James 5. 16]

Not only does the shoulder signify courage and strength, but it is the place representing leadership of government and is in open or public view. The LORD JESUS leads HIS people, they are DIVINELY governed; HIS ministry is to HIS people, open and public.

There was a certain arrangement and a certain stone to be placed on the High Priest's shoulders. Six names of the sons of Israel were engraved in an onyx (lazuli) stone on one shoulder, and six names of the sons of Israel were engraved in another onyx (lazuli) stone on the other "according to birth."

The names are associated with the stones as a very part of them for they were engraved permanently there. Each of the names had the same kind of stone. . . no difference. Each of us who are sons of the MOST HOLY LORD GOD, born into GOD'S Kingdom of priests, are the same; we are equally recognized in Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH according to our New Birth. We are each engraved on the same kind of stone, encased in gold, brilliant, flashing with the luster of the fiery HOLY SPIRIT, lifted high upon the shoulders of our great HIGH PRIEST, borne up above the earthly ties and boundaries to a place in the heavenlies! There is a precious truth told in the meaning of these names. {Note: We will draw attention to just the first and last names, which are all-inclusive.}

"According to birth" tells us that since Reuben was the firstborn of Israel (Jacob), his name engraved first in order on the shoulder stone.. Reuben means "behold (see) a son." This directs our attention to the GREATER SON, the PRECIOUS LORD JESUS. The angels announced HIS birth in Beit'Lehem; the prophet Isaiah declared of HIM, "A CHILD is born, a SON is given." The ALMIGHTY OMNIPOTENT ONE informed the disciples concerning CHRIST, "This is MY BELOVED SON, in whom I am well pleased. Hear HIM!" [Matthew 17. 5] And who of GOD'S people can forget that most precious verse, "GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON." [John 3. 16] "Reuben! Behold, a SON!"

The last name on the shoulder stones was Benjamin. Remember the story of his birth? Rachel, because she was dying, named him "Benoni" — "son of my sorrow." But Jacob (Israel) named him "Benjamin" — "son of my right hand." JESUS OF NAZARETH was born into this world and fulfilled the first name, BENONI, for HE was a MAN of sorrows, acquainted with grief. MESSIAH Y’SHUA was despised and rejected of men; HE suffered, bled and died, the SON OF SORROW. Benjamin was the only son named by his father, Israel. Son of my right hand signifies an exalted and honored place — in an equal position. The LORD Y’SHUA gave HIS life (ONE PERFECT SACRIFICE for sins forever) and is now seated at the right hand of the ETERNAL & TRUE SUPREME GOD in an exalted, honoured place. The HEAVENLY FATHER says of JESUS, the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, "BENJAMIN! SON OF MY RIGHT HAND!"

Through the regenerating power of the HOLY SPIRIT, we are born of the MOST HIGH & LOFTY EVER-LIVING ONE and given the right to be the sons of GOD. The GREATER SON, our LORD & MESSIAH, rejoices in the presence of the angels when a sinner receives HIM. And, it is as though all heaven rejoices with CHRIST JESUS when they see this take place. Now it can be said of this sinner, "Reuben! Behold, a son!"

After this new birth, there is joy and yet there is sorrow for the dying soul of men as we enter into "the fellowship of HIS sufferings." But, if we suffer with our WONDERFUL REDEEMER, we shall also reign with HIM in glory. We can only wear the "golden crown" at last IF we were able to wear the "thorny one" first. As sons in THE SON will be exalted to the position that YESHUA assured: Blessed is the man who endures to the END. . . he shall receive a Crown of Life. [James 1. 12] "To him that overcomes I will grant to sit with ME on MY Throne." [Revelation 3. 21] Then, in that day, the LORD GOD OF HOST will say to us, "Benjamin! son of MY right hand!" May we all be richly blessed by hearing those words spoken to us.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
May this day be a life-changing experience as you consider your latter end and turn to the LIVING GOD of all grace and mercy! Our beloved friends, our prayer is that the ETERNAL GOD OF HEAVEN will hear our prayer and give us a renewed spiritual awakening, increase our love and brotherhood among us thru MESSIAH Y’SHUA, HIS SON.
Our prayer is that your life be filled with GOD’S peace and abundantly rich blessings. May the HOLY CREATOR ever be praised for HIS mercy and loving-kindness to us.

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

Admin Sun 14 Jul 2019, 6:22 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Duty is a matter of the mind. Commitment is a matter of the heart.

THEIR OWN DEVISES
"I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or hot; but because you are lukewarm I will vomit you out of MY mouth. Because you say — I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing — and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked." [Revelation 3. 14 - 17]

The AMEN, THE FAITHFUL & TRUE WITNESS spoke these words to the angel of the church of Laodicea. The LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA wants us to know that just because we are attending a church or belong to a church group does not mean that we are doing HIS commands and that we belong to HIM! JESUS, the ANOINTED ONE, counseled the who-so-ever will to come to HIM for cleansing and acquire HIS riches. "I counsel you to buy from ME gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see." [Revelation 3. 18] "Ho! All who are thirsty, come for water, even if you have no money, Come, buy food and eat! Yes, come! buy wine and milk without cost, without price." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 55. 1 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Man's nature, however, is to go their own way instead of believing and obeying the MASTER OF THE UNIVERSE. Then, they blame and curse the SOVEREIGN ONE for not rescuing them from a situation. However, the warning has always been given, for HE has already said, "Obey MY VOICE that I may be your GOD, and you may be MY people; walk only in the way that I have commanded you, that it may go well with you. Yet they did not listen or gave ear; they followed their own counsels, the willfulness of their evil hearts. They have gone backward, not forward." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 7. 23 - 24 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

GOD MOST HOLY does not and will not force anyone to follow HIM. HE gives freedom of choice and allows everyone to make their own choice, allowing them go after their willful heart, and follow their own desires. "For they are a nation void of sense, lacking in all discernment. Were they wise, they would think upon this, that they would consider their latter end!" [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 32. 28 - 29 Tanakh, Torah] "But MY people would not hear MY VOICE, Israel would not obey ME. So I let them go after their own stubborn heart, that they might follow their own devices." Yet, the hearts cry of the HOLY ONE is still — "Oh, that MY people would listen to ME, that Israel would follow in MY paths!" [Psalms (Tehillym) 81. 11 - 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear ME and always keep all MY commandments!" [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 5. 29 Tanakh, Torah]

It would do well to remember that "many are called, but few are chosen" [Matthew 22. 14] and "all the ways of a man seem right to his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the hearts. To do what is right and just is more desired by the LORD than sacrifice." [Proverbs (Mishle) 21. 2 - 3 Tanakh, Kethuvim] True followers of the LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH are empowered with RUWACH ha'QODESH (the HOLY SPIRIT) and are HIS "called, chosen and faithful." [Revelation 17. 14] And the BLESSED COMFORTER OF GOD HIMSELF bears witness with our spirit that we are children of GOD, "and if children, then heirs — heirs of GOD and joint heirs with CHRIST." [Romans 8. 16 - 17]

Obedience leads to righteousness. "Sow righteousness for yourselves; reap in mercy according to goodness; break up your fallow ground for it is time to seek the LORD so that you may obtain a teacher (the fruits) of righteousness." [Hosea (Hoshea) 10. 12 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Since, the ALMIGHTY OMNISCIENT CREATOR knows our heart, we must be real with HIM and not given to do our own hypocritical inclinations, tendencies and preferences. . . the MASTER’S is first!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Good Sabbath! Come, let us go out to meet the Sabbath Queen, the Bride of the week…Sabbath, eagerly awaited and joyously welcomed! abbath of Chukat – “Statute” [Reading: Numbers 19:1 – 22:1; Judges 11:33; John 19:38-42]
I greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul exults in my GOD. For HE clothed me with garments of salvation, wrapped me in a robe of righteousness; thus shouts of victory and praise spring forth in HIS PRESENCE. I love YOU, LORD and I lift my voice to worship YOU.
Have a tremendously wonderful Sabbath!

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. . .
Silence is a fence around wisdom.

WISDOM OF FEAR
"And unto man HE (GOD) said — Behold! The fear of ADONEY, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding." [Job (Iyowb) 28. 28 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

To truly understand what it is to have reverential fear of the LORD GOD, would be to have a profound awe (anxious dread, terrified – a word reserved for the HOLY LORD GOD alone!), intense awareness of the MIGHTY ONE'S complete abhorrence of sin, as well as HIS omniscience and omnipresence, and living in light of the certainty of standing in front of this MOST HOLY ALL-KNOWING JUDGE at the Judgment Seat. It means unquestioning belief in GOD'S WRITTEN WORDS OF TRUTH and undeserved gift of salvation.

To fear the LORD also means "the beginning (best part) of knowledge…to hate evil...prolongs life…a stronghold [of confidence] and a refuge…a fountain of life, enabling one to avoid deadly snares and be rewarded with a satisfied life" thereby producing true "contentment and riches, honour and life everlasting." [Proverbs (Mishle) 1. 7a; 8. 13; 10. 27; 14. 26–27; 19. 23; 22. 4 Tanakh, Kethuvim] But, "fools despise wisdom, discipline and instruction." [Proverbs (Mishle) 1. 7b Tanakh, Kethuvim]

When the MASTER DESIGNER created man, HE told him that "of every tree of the Garden you are free to eat; but as for the Tree of Knowledge of Good & Evil, you must not eat of it; for as soon as you eat of it, you shall die." [Genesis (Bereshith) 2. 15 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Unfortunately, Adam and Eve sought wisdom in the Tree of Knowledge instead [Genesis/Bereshith 3], then hid themselves in fear because of that gained knowledge. No longer sinless, but naked and ashamed with a death sentence pronounced.

The Psalmist affirmed, "The beginning (first part) of wisdom is the fear of YEHOWAH; all who practice it gain sound understanding. Praise of HIM is everlasting." [Psalms (Tehillym) 111. 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Fear is the key to wisdom that leads to understanding. "The LORD will be the stability of your times, a wealth of salvation, wisdom and knowledge; reverence for the LORD is his treasure." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 33. 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "The SPIRIT OF THE LORD shall rest upon HIM (Y’SHUA, the ROD from the stem of Jesse), the SPIRIT of wisdom and understanding, the SPIRIT of counsel and might, the SPIRIT of knowledge and of the reverential fear for the LORD." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 11. 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

"The fear of the LORD is pure, abiding forever; the judgments of the LORD are true, righteous altogether, more desirable than gold, than much fine gold; sweeter than honey, than dripping of the comb. Moreover by them YOUR servant is warned, in obeying them there is much reward." [Psalms (Tehillym) 19. 9 - 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Reverence for and obedience to the LORD GOD brings riches now in addition to life everlasting — O such glorious riches and unfathomed joy we have in the BELOVED SAVIOR!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
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 - that happiness and contentment may abide in our homes. May the hallowed influences of this day give us strength to do YOUR perfect will, O GOD, with a steadfast, submissive and loving spirit and with a heart of wisdom.
For all things, O GOD our KING, we bless and exalt YOU for ever and ever. YOU are the ROCK of our lives, the SHIELD of our salvation through every generation. YOU, LORD GOD are good, YOUR mercies fail not and YOUR loving kindnesses never cease. We give you thanks and glory and wisdom for this is befitting. Amen.

We are praying for you and desire that yours is a Tov Shavua — a good week!

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

Admin Sun 14 Jul 2019, 1:22 am

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.

FOUR WINDS
"Behold, HE WHO formed mountains, and creates the wind, and declares to man what HIS thought is, WHO turns black darkness into daybreak, and treads upon the high places of the earth — HIS NAME is the LORD, the GOD OF HOSTS." [Amos (Amus) 4. 13 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

These are some wondrous works of HIM WHO is altogether perfect in knowledge! Even the winds obey HIM. [Matthew 8. 27; Luke 8. 25] "At the sound of HIS VOICE, there is a rumbling of water in the skies; HE makes vapors rise from the ends of the earth, HE makes lightning for the rain, HE brings forth wind from HIS treasuries." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 10. 13; 51. 16 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "Whatever the LORD desires HE does in heaven and in earth, in the seas and all the depths. HE makes clouds rise from the end of the earth; HE makes lightning for the rain; HE releases the wind from HIS vaults." [Psalms (Tehillym) 135. 6 - 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Mighty are the ways of the AWESOME CREATOR, controlling even the elements in the four corners of the earth for HIS purpose and plan:

EAST WIND (Hebrew: qadiym ruwach) — The East wind is the most often mentioned in HOLY SCRIPTURE; it is stormy, wrecks ships, and withers growing things. "So Moses held out his rod over the land of Egypt, and the LORD drove an east wind on the land…and when morning came the east wind had brought the locusts." [Exodus (Shemot) 10. 13 Tanakh, Torah] "Like the east wind, I will scatter them before the enemy. I will show them MY back and not MY face in their day of disaster." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 18. 17 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "They all come, bent on destruction; their faces are set like the east wind, and they amass captives like sand." [Habakkuk 1. 9 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

WEST WIND (Hebrew: yam ruwach) — The West wind blew away the plague of locusts. "The LORD caused a shift to a very strong west wind, which lifted the locusts and hurled them into the Red Sea; not a single locust remained in all the territory of Egypt." [Exodus (Shemot) 10. 19 Tanakh, Torah]

NORTH WIND (Hebrew: tsaphown ruwach) — The North wind brings rain, refreshing or stormy. "The north wind brings forth rain." [Proverbs (Mishle) 25. 23 Tanakh, Torah] "Awake, O north wind! Come, O south wind! Blow upon my garden, that its perfume may spread." [Song of Songs (Shir Ha'Shirm) 4. 16 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "I looked, and lo, a stormy wind came sweeping out of the north." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1. 4 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

SOUTH WIND (Hebrew: darowm ruwach) — The south wind is gentle and helps growth. "(Do you know) why your clothes become hot when HE quiets the earth by the south wind?" [Job (Iyob) 37. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "HE set the east wind to blow in heaven, and brought in the south wind by HIS might." [Psalms (Tehillym) 78. 26 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "Awake, O north wind, Come, O south wind! Make my garden breathe out fragrance, that its spices may flow out. May my beloved come into his garden and eat its luscious choice fruits." [Song of Songs/Shir Ha'Shirm 4. 16] "As for man, his days are like those of grass; he blooms like a flower of the field; a wind passes by and it is gone, and its place no longer knows it. But the LORD'S mercy is for all eternity toward those who fear HIM, and HIS righteousness is for the children's children of those who keep HIS Covenant and remember to observe HIS precepts." [Psalms (Tehillym) 103. 15 - 18 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

And some glorious day, the MOST HOLY LORD GOD ALMIGHTY "will send HIS angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together HIS elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other." [Matthew 24. 31] That is the day the redeemed of the LORD are all looking for. What a magnificently glorious day that will be! HalleluYAH!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
OMNIPOTENT LORD GOD, we give you thanks and praise for your invisible hand that guides our lives and in the mist of turmoil, gives perfect peace from YOUR High Place. We look to YOU alone for our help. YOUR GREAT NAME is blessed forever and to all eternity.
Shalom U'Vrakah (Peace & Blessings) Lift your head up high and rejoice, our GOD reigns! The LORD GOD be with each of you this day and always is our prayer.

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

Admin Thu 11 Jul 2019, 11:33 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Wisdom should not make you feel full, but rather fill you with hunger.

GENERAL & SPECIFIC WILL OF GOD
"Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the LORD is." [Ephesians 5. 17]

There is no more exalted theme in the world than the will of GOD, nor is there a more important practical question than how to know the will of the ETERNAL HOLY ONE. Of greatest significance is the recognition that it is HIS will, not man's will, that is important.

ALMIGHTY GOD desires for us to know HIS will — both HIS will in general, as revealed in HOLY SCRIPTURES; and HIS specific will for our life. This in view of the fact that HE is glorified in our personal relationship with HIM. The latter must, in every instance, be in complete agreement with the former as the HOLY SPIRIT, WHO leads us, will never contradict the WRITTEN WORD which HE inspired. Thus, an essential requirement to finding the personal will of GOD is knowing HIS general will.

The general or universal will of the LORD GOD is expressed in the fact of HIS special creation. "YOU are worthy, O LORD, to receive glory and honour and power; for YOU created all things, and by YOUR will they exist and were created." [Revelation 4. 11] Then "THE WORD" became flesh — GOD SUPREME came down and was born in the form of a MAN that HE could accomplish GOD'S perfect will, "Behold, I have come — in the volume of the BOOK it is written of ME — to do YOUR will, O GOD." [Hebrews 10. 7] "To do what pleases YOU, my GOD, is my desire; YOUR TEACHING is within my heart." [Psalms (Tehillym) 40. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Being the PERFECT MAN, Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH became our SIN-BEARING SUBSTITUTE; "by that will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of the LORD JESUS Christ once for all." [Hebrews 10. 10] It is HIS will that this should provide salvation to all who believe: "This is the will of HIM that sent ME, that everyone who sees the SON and believes in HIM may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day." [John 6. 40] This, in turn, entails individual regeneration of all who receive the LORD Y’SHUA, "who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of GOD." [John 1. 13]

OMNIPOTENT GOD'S will is:
Absolute Security: "This is the will of the FATHER WHO sent ME, that of all HE has given ME I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day." [John 6. 39]

Our Sanctification: "For this is the will of GOD, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor." [1 Thessalonians 4. 3] We glorify our HEAVENLY FATHER when we abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul.

Ultimate Glorification: "FATHER, I desire that they also whom YOU gave ME may be with ME where I am, that they may behold MY glory which YOU have given ME; for YOU loved ME before the foundation of the world." [John 17. 24] MESSIAH Y’SHUA is the believer’s EXAMPLE and LIVING HOPE. We are assured that when HE appears, those who know HIM will be glorified.

Thankful in all Things: "In everything give thanks; for this is the will of GOD in CHRIST JESUS for you." [1 Thessalonians 5. 18] "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]

Virtuous Life: "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] Beloved, whoever does what is good is of GOD, the BELOVED MASTER and commendable before HIM. [1 Peter 2. 20; 3 John 11]

The believer who understands, believes, and obeys SOVEREIGN GOD'S general will is then prepared to recognize, know, follow and diligently practice (perform & accomplish) HIS specific PERSONAL will.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Man is given choices to act out in this world; but the junctions and highways have been set in place by the CREATOR. We have an AWESOME GOD, and HE is on the Throne ruling over the affairs of men. HE is worthy of all our praise and worship, even in these 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

Admin Wed 10 Jul 2019, 11:34 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Life’s problems would not be called "hurdles" if there wasn’t a way to get over them.

YINNON — THE SUN
"And you, O Bethlehem of Ephrath, least among the clans of Judah, from you ONE shall come forth to rule Israel for ME — ONE WHOSE origin is from of old, from ancient times." [Micah (Michah) 5. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

According to the prophet Micah, the MESSIAH was to be born in the city of Bethlehem. HE was to be KING of the Jews, WHOSE goings forth have been from of old from everlasting indicating HE existed before HE came to earth in a human body. "Before the sun was, HIS NAME "YINNON (one of the names/attributes of MESSIAH Y’SHUA) "had been prepared and all nations will be blessed in HIS merits." [Psalms (Tehillym) 72. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim] This statement also implies pre-existence. From this passage on YINNON the word "Shiloh" or "Sheloi" comes to which many Jewish scholars admit as referring to MESSIAH.

"Shiloh" means "the exact image and reflection of GOD." "In HIM dwells all the FULLNESS of the GODhead BODILY." [Colossians 2. 9] "Shelot" is an acrostic meaning "HIS NAME shall be continued as long as the sun."

"Thus says the LORD GOD — Remove the turban and take off the crown! Nothing shall remain the same! Exalt the humble, and disgrace the exalted. Ruin, an utter ruin I will make it overthrown! It shall be no longer, until HE COMES TO WHOM IT RIGHTFULLY BELONGS; and I will give it to HIM." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 21. 26-27 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "The scepter (a symbol of kingship) shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between HIS feet; until SHILOH comes, so that tribute shall come to HIM and the homage of peoples be HIS." [Genesis (Bereshith) 49. 10 Tanakh, Torah] "In that time, tribute shall be brought to the LORD OF HOSTS from a people far and remote, from a people thrust forth and away — a nation of gibber and chatter, whose land is cut off by streams — at the place where the NAME OF THE LORD OF HOSTS abides, at Mount Zion." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 18. 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Yes, to YINNON, SHILOH, LAWGIVER, MESSIAH, SAVIOR, REDEEMER, ALMIGHTY GOD, KING Y’SHUA "all kings shall bow down to HIM and all nations shall serve HIM." [Psalms (Tehillym) 72. 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim] How can one help but serve the LORD JESUS in awe, and rejoice with trembling; all those who put their trust in HIM are eternally most blessed.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
O GOD, keep my tongue from evil and my lips from speaking guile. Be my SUPPORT when grief silences my voice, and my COMFORT when woe bends my spirit. Plant humility in my soul, and strengthen my heart with perfect faith in YOU. Help me to be strong in trials and temptations and to be humble always before YOU, my STRONG-TOWER. Guide me by the PURE LIGHT of YOUR counsel, and let me ever find rest in YOU, my ROCK and my REDEEMER. Praised be the LORD GOD ETERNAL to WHOM all praise is due for ever and ever. Amen

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of 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

Admin Tue 09 Jul 2019, 11:15 am

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
We cannot put our sins behind us until we are ready to face them.

ALTOGETHER LOVELY

"His mouth is most delicious and sweet, all of him is delightful. He is altogether lovely. Such is my beloved. Of this kind is my darling, my friend, O maidens of Jerusalem." [Song of Songs (Shir ha'Shirim) 5. 16 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The Song of Songs is essentially a beautiful poetic story of marital love. In part, it is a allegory picturing the love between the LORD Y’SHUA and HIS church, "which HE purchased with HIS OWN blood." [Acts 20. 28] All the beauties of MESSIAH Y’SHUA are seen in this "Love Song."

Only of Y’SHUA THE NAZARENE can it truly be said that "HE is altogether lovely." Of all human lips and tongues, "HIS mouth is most sweet" for "no man ever spoke like this MAN." [John 7. 46] Even those who rejected HIS love "marveled at the gracious words which proceeded out of HIS mouth." [Luke 4. 22] In one of the great MESSIANIC PSALMS, the psalmist foretold, "grace is poured from YOUR lips" showing that HE would be "fairer than all men." [Psalms (Tehillym) 45. 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

"The fairest of women" [Song of Songs/Shir ha'Shirim 5. 9] gives her declaration concerning her beloved, stating that he is "brilliant white and stained ruddy, preeminent among ten thousand." [Song of Songs/Shir ha'Shirim 5. 10] This must apply in the fullest sense only to the very GOD OF CREATION dwelling in irresistible light and yet becoming a SACRIFICIAL LAMB to redeem HIS beloved. HE is both OMNIPOTENT GOD and DYING SAVIOR, nonetheless HE is also our PERFECT, UNSURPASSED FRIEND. "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends." [John 15. 13] Yet the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL laid HIS life down for us while we were HIS enemies. "When we were enemies we were reconciled to GOD through the death of HIS SON, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by HIS life." [Romans 5. 10]

No wonder after such a testimony, the maidens of Jerusalem exclaimed in joy, "Where has your beloved gone...that we may seek him with you?" [Song of Songs (Shir ha'Shirim) 6. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Our BELOVED has gone "to prepare a place" for us and has promised to come again and receive us to HIMSELF, so that where HE is, we may be also. Amen!! [John 14. 2 - 3] Even so, come LORD JESUS my ADORED ONE — that our joy and hope will be fulfilled when we behold YOU, the ONE WHO is ALTOGETHER LOVELY.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
We praise YOU, MOST HOLY LORD GOD and ask that YOUR PRESENCE be manifest to us in all YOUR works, so that reverence for YOU may fill the hearts of YOUR creatures. May all the children of men bow before YOU in humility and unite to do YOUR will with one heart, that all may acknowledge that YOURS alone is the power, dominion and majesty; and that YOUR NAME is exalted above all.
Hold fast to the ENDURING ONE and continue to hold each other up in your prayers, these are going to be hard days ahead, but our RIGHTEOUS ALMIGHTY GOD is in control.

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. . .
Learn a lot from teachers, even more from your colleagues . . .and the most from your pupils.

THE GUIDING EYE
"Let ME instruct you and teach you which way to go; let ME offer counsel; I will guide you with MY eye." [Psalms (Tehillym) 32. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The title, "Maskil (Hebrew, meaning instruction)" is the heading for Psalm 32 showing the blessedness of forgiveness. This Psalm contains David's personal testimony of intense soul-searing conviction following his awful sin with Bathsheba, with whom he committed adultery; and Uriah, her husband, whom David had murdered in battle so he could have Bathsheba as his wife.

David said that his "limbs had wasted away" and that ALMIGHTY GOD'S "hand lay heavy on me" [vs. 3-4] until finally "I acknowledged my sin to YOU and did not cover up my guilt" and "YOU, LORD forgave the guilt of my sin." [v. 5] Once a sinner has confessed in true repentance, there is real forgiveness and cleansing, and the happiness of salvation is restored. Now they are born-anew and now they are saints. Therefore, David could begin his Psalm with "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered over!" [Psalms (Tehillym) 32. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The word "blessed (Hebrew: 'esher)" means happy and the only way to relieve guilt and depression is by confession of sin, genuine repentance, and then by restitution to anyone injured by the sin, if possible, and committing to live wholly for CREATOR GOD..

Truly, this is sensible and reasonable instruction! The MOST HIGH GOD, the HEAVENLY FATHER, desires HIS children not to be "as the senseless horse or mule whose movement must be curbed by bit and bridle forcibly" [v. 9]; but to be so in tune with GOD'S HOLY WRITTEN WORD and HIS will that HE can guide them gently and quietly, like a parent who teaches (directs) an obedient and loving child merely by the look in their eye. "Thus says the LORD, your REDEEMER, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL — I the LORD am your GOD, instructing you for your own benefit, WHO leads you by the way you should go." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 48. 17 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

"Truly the eye of the LORD is on those who fear HIM and hope in HIS unfailing mercy and wait for HIS faithful care to deliver their soul from death, to sustain them from famine." [Psalms (Tehillym) 33. 18 – 19 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The happy (blessed) life is the one of obedience to the guiding eye of the LORD & MASTER ARCHITECT.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Praise to our wonderful ALMIGHTY CREATOR GOD! We praise and bless YOU, O GOD for lovingly and graciously offering us YOUR amazing grace. Dark times are not coming, they are here, falling into place according to the WRITTEN WORD. Grant us rest in YOUR power and faithfulness, for without YOU, we are nothing. We all need YOUR strength and encouragement...for we must shine HIS LIGHT in the darkness and stoke the embers of Hope.

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/

Admin Sat 06 Jul 2019, 10:58 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Faith uses its strength to develop trust.

SUFFERING MESSIAH/TRIUMPHANT LORD
"I AM the ALPHA and the OMEGA, the BEGINNING and the END — says the LORD — WHO is and WHO was and WHO is to come, the ALMIGHTY." [Revelation 1. 8]

There are seven "I AM" statements that occur in Revelation, the last book of the HOLY BIBLE. And, all are declarations by the GLORIFIED CHRIST JESUS, speaking of HIS ultimate victory.

The Psalms also have seven statements of the LORD Y’SHUA, but they are vastly different I AM statements, all speaking prophetically of MESSIAH'S sufferings. These are in four of the wonderfully fulfilled MESSIANIC Psalms, all written 1,000 years before the birth of Y’SHUA, yet each Psalm mentioned is fulfilled by the LORD JESUS CHRIST in the NEW COVENANT.

"But I AM a worm, less than human; scorned and reproached by men, despised of the people." [Psalms (Tehillym) 22. 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Job states it this way, "How much less man, a worm, the SON OF MAN, a maggot." [Job (Iyowb) 25. 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Here MESSIAH Y’SHUA is compared to a mother scarlet worm who dies that her young may live, and in so doing, gives off a scarlet fluid which protects and nourishes her young.
"I AM poor and needy." [Psalms (Tehillym) 40. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
"I AM a stranger to MY brothers, an alien to MY kin." [Psalms (Tehillym) 69. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
"I AM poor, lowly and sorrowful full of pain." [Psalms (Tehillym) 69. 29 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
"I AM like a lone bird upon a rooftop." [Psalms (Tehillym) 102. 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
"I AM withered like grass." [Psalms (Tehillym) 102. 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

In contrast to these lonely sufferings of MESSIAH, there are the glories that shall follow. Five of the seven I AM's of Revelation proclaim the same great truth — "I AM the ALPHA and the OMEGA, the FIRST and the LAST." [Revelation 1. 8, 11, 17; 21. 6; 22. 13]

The SELF-EXISTING ONE, the I AM, YEHOWAH, the LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH WHO created all things (ALPHA) one day will triumph and make all things new forever (OMEGA). The two other wonderful testimonies proclaim — "I AM HE WHO lives, and was dead, and behold, I AM alive forevermore. Amen — And I have the keys of Hades and of Death." [Revelation 1. 18] "I AM the ROOT and the OFFSPRING of David, the BRIGHT and MORNING STAR." [Revelation 22. 16]

This same JESUS, the GREAT I AM, is THE ONE WHO is coming back soon to judge the living and the dead, and set up HIS Kingdom. "I charge you therefore before GOD and the LORD JESUS CHRIST, WHO will judge the living and the dead at HIS appearing and HIS Kingdom." [2 Timothy 4. 1] Are you ready???

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
As we bid farewell to Shabbas, our prayer is that GOD, WHO'S PRESENCE dwells within us, bless you abundantly.
Who is like YOU, AWESOME CREATOR GOD? Who is like YOU, glorious in holiness, revered in worship, wondrous in works? Eternal is YOUR power, O LORD, YOU are mighty to save. In loving-kindness YOU sustain the living; in the multitude of YOUR mercies, YOU preserve all. YOU uphold the falling, heal the sick; bring freedom to the captives and keep faith with YOUR children in death as in life. Who is like YOU, ALMIGHTY GOD, AUTHOR of life and death, SOURCE of salvation? Truly, there is none like YOU, O LORD my GOD!
May some of the sweetness of Sabbath be present throughout the week.

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

Admin Fri 05 Jul 2019, 9:57 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
We are not in a world where everything is done with zeal and a lot of bitterness. One must learn how to recognize the bitter in order to get the full taste and appreciate the good.

MIGHTY WIND
"The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the SPIRIT." [John 3. 8]

There has always been a connection between the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD and the wind. Beginning at creation when the SPIRIT OF GOD moved over the surface of the waters in preparation for the CREATOR’S creative work. [Genesis/Bereshith 1. 2] Then the MASTER DESIGNER used the winds to help dry up the flood waters "ELOHIYM made a wind to pass over the earth, and the waters subsided." [Genesis/Bereshith 8. 1] As a powerful life-giving force, the wind in Ezekiel’s vision was instructed, "Prophesy to the wind (Hebrew: Ruwach - breath, spirit), prophesy, O mortal! Say to the wind, Thus said the LORD GOD — Come, O BREATH, from the four winds and breathe into these slain, that they may live again. I prophesied as HE commanded me. The breath entered them, and they came to life and stood up on their feet, a vast multitude." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 37. 9 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

There was a "Sound of a Mighty Wind" accompanied by "Tongues of Fire" on the day of Pentecost, as the disciples first received the outpouring of the HOLY SPIRIT. The "wind" became "tongues" in the mouths of all the disciples as they spoke the wonderful works of ALMIGHTY GOD, in every language on the face of the earth. Thus everyone heard and understood in their own native language. [Acts 2. 1 - 12] The result of the outpouring of the HOLY SPIRIT was "boldness" and "power" to be witnesses of MESSIAH Y’SHUA in the face of the very ones who had called for the LORD JESUS' death.

The wind brought great hardship to Job, "Suddenly a great and mighty wind from the wilderness. It struck the four corners of the house so that it collapsed upon the young men, and they are dead." [Job (Iyob) 1. 19 Tanakh, Kethuvim] OMNIPOTENT GOD, the POSSESSOR OF HEAVEN & EARTH also sends the wind to bring about judgment, "Thus said the LORD OF HOSTS — I am going to break the bow of Elam, the mainstay of their strength. And I shall bring four winds against Elam from the four quarters of heaven, and scatter them to the four winds. There shall not be a nation to which the fugitives from Elam do not go. I will break Elam before their enemies...MY flaming wrath will bring disaster upon them." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 49. 35 - 37 Tanakh, Nevi’im] There is a peculiar unpredictability about the wind, yet the LORD our SHIELD & EXCEEDINGLY GREAT REWARD is in control of it, "After these things I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, on the sea, or on any tree." [Revelation 7. 1]

The ALMIGHTY ONE was also in control of Jonah’s destination when HE "sent out a mighty wind upon the sea, and such a great tempest came on the sea that the ship was in danger of breaking up." [Jonah (Yonah) 1. 4 Tanakh, Nevi’im] Jonah ended up being thrown overboard at his own request, the tempestuous wind ceased since it accomplished what was needed. Then Jonah was swallowed up by a big fish the LORD had specially prepared and returned him to land to try again.

Again using HIS elements, the MASTER CONTROLLER caused a tempestuous head wind that caught the ship Paul was on and drove it to the Isle of Malta where it was completely wrecked. However, the ANGEL OF GOD had told Paul that no life would be lost. This happened just as Paul warned the sailors, but GOD used the situation for HIS glory and proved that Paul was indeed a man called to HIS service. [see Acts 27 - 28]

Just as the wind obeys the MASTER’S command, so the believer should be moved by the SPIRIT OF GOD to wholly do HIS will. And as we ask, the LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA will teach us to delight in HIS Law as we are led by THE COMFORTER, HIS HOLY SPIRIT.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Welcoming Sabbath! Sabbath of Korach – “Korah” [Reading: Numbers 16:1 – 18:32; 1 Samuel 11:14 – 12:22; John 19:1-17]
Those who keep the Sabbath and call it a delight shall rejoice in GOD'S Kingdom. Through the common days flow the refreshing waters of GOD'S lovingkindness, yet we forget THE SOURCE. May this hour awaken within us a sense of our dependence upon YOU. Create in us a clean heart and renew a right spirit within us that we may face our daily duty with a firm courage and a tranquil mind. May we learn to know that in loving and serving our fellowmen, we are loving and serving YOU. May the spirit of the Sabbath fill our life with its blessed peace through YOUR PRECIOUS SON, Y’SHUA THE ANOINTED ONE. Amen
May the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL greatly bless you this Sabbath.

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

Admin Thu 04 Jul 2019, 9:38 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
It is time for the LORD to work when man makes void HIS Law!

GOD IN HUMAN FORM
The true MESSIAH must be the MESSENGER and MEDIATOR of a NEW & EVERLASTING COVENANT which includes Gentiles as well as Jews. "For HE (GOD THE FATHER) said — It is too little a thing that YOU should be MY SERVANT in that I raise up the tribes of Jacob and restore the survivors of Israel: I will also make YOU a LIGHT to the nations, that MY SALVATION may reach the ends of the earth." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 49. 5 Tanakh, Nevi'im; also Deuteronomy/Devarim 18. 17-19; Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 31. 31-32; 33. 14-15; Zechariah/Zecharyah 3. 8; 9. 9-12; Malachi/Malakhi 3. 1]

HE must also unite in HIMSELF all the GOD-ordained offices that exist in Israel; being the PROPHET (Lawgiver & Leader) like Moses, a HIGH PRIEST & MEDIATOR like Melchizedek, and a KING like David, besides being the SAVIOR & LORD of all that ever will be saved. [Deuteronomy/Devarim 18. 15; Isaiah/Yeshayah 55. 4; 33. 22; Psalms/Tehillym 110. 1, 4; Zechariah/Zecharyah 6. 12-13; Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 33. 1, 4-18] The TRUE MESSIAH must be the REDEEMER of man's sprit, soul (mind) and body. [Job/Iyowb 19. 25-26; Psalms/Tehillym 16. 9-11; 17. 15; 31. 5, 19; 72. 13-14; Isaiah/Yeshayah 26. 19]

"Jacob was left alone. And a MAN wrestled with him until the break of dawn...Then HE said — Let ME go, for dawn is breaking. But Jacob answered — I will not let YOU go unless YOU bless me. Said the OTHER — What is your name? He replied — Jacob. Said HE — Your name shall no longer be Jacob, but Israel; for as a prince, you have striven with ELOHIYM and with man and have prevailed." [Genesis (Bereshith) 32. 24-28 Tanakh, Torah] {The LORD GOD asked him what his name was to see if he would finally tell the truth, as Jacob had previously lied to his earthly father, Isaac, telling him that he was Esau, his firstborn. see Genesis 27:19}

Here we see that Jacob wrestled with a MAN, WHO was none other than the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY. To commemorate this wonderful experience, Jacob calls this place Peniel (face of GOD) "For, he said — I have SEEN GOD face to face, yet my life has been preserved." [Genesis (Bereshith) 32. 30 Tanakh, Torah] Jacob recognized the fact that this "MAN" with whom he wrestled was CREATOR GOD HIMSELF!

Most people, especially Jews, cringe at the mention of the fact that one can see GOD and live. Nevertheless it was the experience of Jacob. Also Moses, the great Lawgiver of the Jews relates a similar instance in his own life and others: "Then Moses, Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and seventy elders of Israel ascended; and they SAW the GOD OF ISRAEL — under HIS feet there was the likeness of a pavement of sapphire, like the very sky for purity. Yet HE did not raise HIS hand against the leaders of the Israelites; they BEHELD GOD, and they ate and drank." [Exodus (Shemot) 24. 9-11 Tanakh, Torah] Moses declares that the nobles of the children of Israel saw the GOD OF ISRAEL and after seeing HIM they were able to eat and drink — which testifies to the fact they were still alive and awake, not fantasizing, in a trance, or dreaming.

Note: THE ANGEL OF THE LORD, WHO is GOD OMNISCIENT, appeared frequently in the OLD COVENANT times as a MAN. That being the case, it should not be difficult for a Jew or Gentile who has studied SCRIPTURES, to believe that the MESSIAH Y’SHUA was indeed YEHOWAH GOD manifested in the flesh! "Behold, I am sending MY MESSENGER to clear the way before ME, and the LORD WHOM you seek shall come to HIS Temple suddenly. As for the ANGEL OF THE COVENANT that you desire, HE is already coming — says the LORD OF HOSTS." [Malachi (Malakhi) 3. 1 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Here the MESSIAH Y’SHUA is called "LORD, THE MESSENGER, and THE ANGEL OF THE COVENANT." HE is the ANGEL WHO saves and redeems — spoken of in Isaiah. [64. 9] It is true, the LORD JESUS came to save and redeem. HE is "THE MESSENGER OF THE COVENANT" — the NEW COVENANT, prophesied and promised by GOD in Jeremiah. [Isaiah/Yeshayah 31. 31-32]

But, why must the HOLY GOD OF HEAVEN appear as a MAN? Because sin requires the death penalty. Man, who is a sinner, could not redeem himself. ALMIGHTY GOD, in HIS OWN PERSON, must be a substitute to pay the ransom price in man's place. But GOD OMNIPOTENT cannot die; HE is "forever and ever." [Exodus/Shemot 3. 14; Psalms/Tehillym 90. 2] Therefore, THE REDEEMER of mankind must become MAN in order that HE could be made sin and die. [Hebrews 2. 9; 1 Peter 1. 18-19]

THE REDEEMER could not be a mere mortal MAN either for if HE was, HE would have been involved in sin HIMSELF through Adam. [Romans 5. 12] Also, if JESUS were simply a man, there would be no sacrifice that would be appropriate for all humanity. To meet all the requirements, there had to be a GOD/MAN, "THE GOD\MAN" to meet both man's need and ETERNAL GOD'S requirements of a SAVIOR. Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, the LORD JESUS CHRIST is THE ANSWER and HE is the GREATEST LOVER of our soul. Thank YOU, LORD!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
We assiduously (diligently, attentively, tirelessly) cover you with ceaseless prayers desiring that you might be filled with the knowledge of GOD'S perfect will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. We encourage you to walk pleasing and be fruitful in every good work and increase in the knowledge of YESHUA THE BELOVED KING and be strengthened with HIS glorious power. In all things may GOD be glorified through the LORD JESUS, to WHOM belongs the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen
Remembering the 4th of July by thanking the GREAT GOD of Creation for HIS mercies alone. O that America would turn from their wicked ways, repent of their arrogances, and fear the ONLY ONE WHO can heal the whole world.

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

Admin Wed 03 Jul 2019, 11:51 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Ignorance is arrogance.

THE TEN PLAGUES (Part 1 of 2)
"Has any god ever tried to go and take for himself one nation from the midst of another nation, by trials, by signs, by wonders, by war, by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, and by awesome power, as the LORD your GOD did for you in Egypt before your very eyes? To you it was shown, clearly demonstrated, that the LORD alone is GOD; THERE IS NONE OTHER besides HIM." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 34 - 35 Tanakh, Torah]

The Ten Plagues were inflicted upon the land of Egypt by the HOLY ONE because of Egypt's enslavement of the Jewish people. The OMNISCIENT CREATOR GOD OF HEAVEN promised Avram (Abraham), "I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you; but, whoever curses you, I will curse." [Genesis (Bereshith) 12. 2 - 3 Tanakh, Torah]

There were four specific purposes why TRUE & LIVING ALMIGHTY ONE, blessed be HE, brought these Ten Plagues upon Egypt: The First was to show that the MIGHTY GOD OF ISRAEL is the only GOD. The Second was to show the foolishness of idolatry. The Third was to punish Egypt for their curse upon the Israelites. The Fourth was to free Israel.

Pharaoh was also considered to be a god in human form and the plagues proved that he was not much of a god after all. In addition, one of the most important and controlling casts in the Egyptian society was the priesthood of Egypt, and the plagues affected these priests likewise. The Ten Plagues did more than bring pain and suffering onto the Egyptian people. Each plague attacked at least one of the Egyptians’ many gods, demonstrating the powerlessness of their idols and the omnipotence of ALMIGHTY GOD. The plagues were not just creative vengeance; they came to teach a lesson. It was recognition of GOD, a step-by-step dismantling of the entire Egyptian belief system.

The introductory sign to Pharaoh was the staff turning into a snake A cobra was one of the protectors of the Pharaohs of Egypt, and featured in the royal headdress that they wore. It was a representation of Thermuthis, protector goddess of the Pharaoh. When Moses’ staff turned into a snake and then swallowed the staves/snakes of Pharaoh’s magicians, it was a way of demonstrating that the GOD of the Israelites was more powerful than the god and protector of Pharaoh.

Plague of Blood was on waters of Egypt found in rivers, streams, pools, and ponds; it included the water in the vessels themselves. The vessels were made of wood and stone — the common idiom for idolatry — wood and stone; indicating these were used for the purpose of a drink offering to the gods of Egypt. The Egyptians shed Jewish blood, and now blood was given them to drink. This plague affected these Egyptian gods: The Nile River itself, Khnum, the guardian of the Nile; Hapi, the spirit of the Nile; Osiris, for whom the Nile River was his bloodstream; Sepek, a crocodile god who had the body of a man and the head of a crocodile; Neith, the protector of the large fish; and Hathor, the protector of the major fish. They also worshiped Taweret, the hippopotamus goddess of pregnancy and childbirth, who was believed to live in the Nile. When the river turned to blood, it would have seemed to the Egyptians as though the Nile gods had been killed.
All these so-called gods thoroughly failed!

Plague of Frogs Two gods were affected by this plague: Hapi again, who controlled the alluvial deposits of the Nile to make the land fertile — the sound of frogs usually meant a time for rejoicing because it meant the Nile receded and the land was fertile. This plague attacked the Egyptians using their own symbol of protection. It brought them to hate their own deity, and forced them to kill the creatures which to them was the manifestation of a goddess. When the dead frogs were left in stinking heaps at the end of the plague, it would have reinforced the message that their goddess was dead and disgusting. The Egyptian priests and magicians copied this plague and caused an even greater disaster. The goddess Heqt, having the body of a woman and the head of a frog was the symbol of resurrection and fertility. These gods were useless!

Plague of Mixture (lice, dog flies, vermin, gnats, swarms of numerous pests) The plague of lice which appeared out of the dust transformed their god from a protector and benefactor into a source of danger. The two gods affected in this plague were Uatchit, the god of insects; and Seb, the god of the earth who was to protect from lice.
The priesthood of Egypt was also affected in that it was noted for its purity and cleanliness. However, they were forced to shave their body of all hair, including the eyebrows to avoid this plague; but the intensity of the swarms still was found on their bodies.

Plague of Flies A plague of biting flies. In Ancient Egypt, flies represented tenacity, stubbornness, determination, courage, eternal life, and sometimes fertility. Stone carvings and amulets shaped as flies were found in ancient Egyptian tombs. To be attacked by the insect they revered would have been a major blow to the Egyptian mind. The Egyptian god affected in this plague was Beelzebub, the "lord of the flies" who controlled the fly population — he could do nothing!
The Hebrews twisted the name BeelzeBUB — calling the name, BeelzeBUL which fittingly means "lord of the dung heap."

Plague of Murrain (a disease in cattle) Many Egyptian gods were depicted as animals, especially as cows, bulls and rams. Apis, god of strength and fertility, was worshiped as a sacred bull of the god Ptah, a firstborn bull always kept in the open; Mnevis, the sacred bull of god Ra; Amun, one of the most powerful gods in Egypt, was depicted as a ram, as was Ra; the god of the city Helipoplis, also a firstborn kept in the open; Hathor, goddess of love, was shown as a cow who had the body of a woman and head of a cow, the protector of the cows and the goddess of love, beauty, music, and joy; Knom, the ram god of creation and the god of the Nile surging floods, was shown with a ram’s head and the body of a man. Unsurprisingly, these idolatrous gods failed, all the cattle and rams in the field died! Those inside a barn or building were spared.
Animals were worshipped as the embodiment of the god and were even embalmed when they died. As well as damaging the food source and livelihood of the Egyptians, this plague killed their gods by killing the cattle and sheep which represented them. . . for now, but more plagues are to come.

...to be continued

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
May each of you fully know “Simcha Shel Mitzvah — Joy in doing good." May each day be entered with joy in our hearts and confidence that ALMIGHTY GOD, in HIS mercy, will continue to use us as HIS messengers of the GOOD NEWS to the perplexed and depraved world around us! Remember, faith celebrates even before the victory is seen!

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Reason explains the darkness, but it is not a light.

THE TEN PLAGUES (Part 2 - Conclusion)
"The LORD said to Moses — Early in the morning present yourself to Pharaoh and say to him — Thus says the LORD, the GOD of the Hebrews: Let MY people go to worship ME. For at this time I will send all MY plagues upon your very heart, and on your servants and on your people that you may know there is none like ME in all the earth." [Exodus (Shemot) 9. 13 - 14 Tanakh, Torah] "Nevertheless I have spared you for this purpose: In order to show you MY power, and in order that MY NAME may be declared throughout the earth. Yet you continue to exalt yourself over MY people, and do not let them go." [Exodus (Shemot) 9. 16 - 17 Tanakh, Torah]

So, the plagues continued —

Plague of Boils came when Moses sprinkled ashes of the furnace towards heaven in the sight of Pharaoh. The furnace refers to the one which was used to bake bricks to build the cities for Pharaoh. It stood as the symbol of oppression of the Jews; and now from the very symbol of oppression, ashes were taken that resulted in an oppression on the Egyptians. With the ashes of the furnace sprinkled, all were smitten with boils.
The gods affected, Sekhmet and Khonsu, were Egyptian gods with the body of a woman and head of a lioness, believed to have power over epidemics, both to Cause and/or Stop — it could do neither! Serapis was the god of medicine and healing. Imhotep, was the god of medicine.
These all failed and could not terminate the plague!

Plague of Hail & Fire This plague mixture was against four Egyptian gods:
1. Shu was the sky god, son of Ra, the son god. [In Hebrew, ra means evil.]
2. Nut, the sky goddess of fertility, sister and wife of Osiris, represented as wearing cow's horns and a solar disk on her head.
These could not stop the Fire & Hail of ALMIGHTY GOD. The fire and hail which fell from the sky showed that Nut, goddess of the sky and Shu, god of the air, were unable to protect the Egyptians. It didn’t rain often in Egypt and most of their water came from the Nile, so the Egyptians were scared whenever it was cloudy or rainy.
They believed that the sun god Ra travelled across the sky in his boat every day, fighting the forces of evil which tried to stop him. Hail and fire would have seemed to them like an attack on Ra, their most important god, and an attempt to stop him from continuing in his journey across the sky.
The result of the plague was fourfold: First, it killed every man in the field. Second, it killed every beast in the field.
3. Seth was the god of agriculture.
4. Isis, the goddess of agriculture.
This plague also destroyed the crops standing in the fields in an attack on Nepri, god of the grain, and Renenutet, goddess of fertility and food, who were shown to be powerless to protect their people’s harvest. Third, this plague smote every herb of the field, these gods were not able to save the flax and barley crops. Fourth, it broke every tree of the field.

Plague of Locust The locusts destroyed everything still left in the field and even entered the houses of Egypt that weren’t ruined by the fire and hail, thus also attacking Nepri and Renenutet. There were so many locusts that they blotted out the sun, overpowering the sun-god Ra.
The ancient Egyptians also worshipped the ‘eye of Horus’, which they believed was a symbol of protection. It is possible that when the locusts are described as covering the eye of the land, it refers to the perception of the Egyptians that the protecting eye of Horus was dimmed by GOD. Seth and Isis, the god and goddess of agriculture are two other gods affected in this plague. None could save the growing crop from the locust.

Plague of Darkness lasted 3 days and was of such a thickness it could be felt, severely affecting the equilibrium; no one was able even to stand in such darkness. For the Egyptians, thick black darkness for three unceasing days and nights was a clear sign of the defeat of the sun-god Ra.
The god's affected were Ra, the sun god who had two forms — either with the body of a man and head of a ram, or the body of a man and the head of a goose. Khepre, a sun god with the body of a man and head of a beetle. Harakhte, the sun god with a man's body and head of a hawk. Aton, a sun-disk god. Horus, the winged sun disk god who was the son of Osiris and Isis, also having a hawk head. Atum, the god of the setting sun. Thoth, the moon god. Nut, the sky goddess. Shu, the sky god.
All were powerless against the Plague of Darkness!

Death of the Firstborn was the final plague on Egypt. Egyptian society was built upon the cult of primogeniture (seniority, position, pre-eminence). Osiris, the first-born son of Ra, was the first Pharaoh solely due to his birth order. The Egyptians believed that every pharaoh was also a god, the first-born son of the first-born son stretching back to Osiris himself. Min, the god of protection and reproduction. Isis, the goddess of procreation and reproduction. Hathor, the goddess who was believed present at the birth of a child. Apis, the firstborn bull, a sacred bull, the second Apis bull to die within these ten plagues.
This plague destroyed the final illusion of the power and immortality of the Egyptian first-born leader. When the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY first sent Moses to Pharaoh, HE told him "Israel is MY first-born son". By killing the first-born of Egypt and sparing Israel, GOD showed that HIS first-born are the real first-born, and dealt the final blow to the Egyptians’ entire first-born-based belief structure.

None of these could protect the firstborn from the FINGER OF THE ALMIGHTY ETERNAL GOD OF HEAVEN! "It has been clearly demonstrated and you have been shown to know that the LORD alone is ELOHIYM; there is none beside HIM." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 35 Tanakh, Torah] Assuredly, YEHOWAH is the only SOVEREIGN LORD GOD OMNIPOTENT!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
O, that 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. Remember, obedience is better then sacrifice! Keep in mind, faith celebrates even before the victory is seen!
May each day be filled with love and unselfishness — that happiness and contentment may abide in your homes.
Tonight begins Rosh Chodesh – the new month of Tammuz This month is named after the ancient Babylonian sun god (Ezekiel 8:12–18). I can't say that if I were selecting names for Jewish months that this is the first one that would have come to mind. In fact, it seems the opposite of what the entire concept the Hebrew calendar is about. Each month offers us the opportunity for growth and renewal. Idol worship is pagan and limiting. Invoking the name of a central figure in a cult that worshipped the sun as the source of all energy seems somehow retrogressive. It takes us back to archaic prehistory before our forefather Abraham made sense of nature and realized that there is a Divine, hidden hand that gives it unity, elegance of form, and purpose no one worshiped the sun, but only its holy, infinite, unknowable MAKER.
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

Admin Mon 01 Jul 2019, 11:13 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Suffering is always a preparation for greatness.

JUDGED IN RIGHTEOUSNESS
"Shout for joy at the PRESENCE of the LORD, for HE is coming, for HE is coming to judge the earth. HE shall rule the world with righteousness, and HIS peoples in truth." [Psalms (Tehillym) 96. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Judgment is coming for every person, "as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment." [Hebrews 9. 27] Unfortunately, most people do not believe it, and even more don’t even care, but judgment is coming! Be certain of this fact — we will all meet our MAKER someday and "then each of us shall give account of himself to GOD." [Romans 14. 2]

The time is coming, and that very soon, when we will stand before the JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST. There we will be judged for every thought, word, and deed. "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. 13]

The RIGHTEOUS JUDGE "WHOSE eyes are too pure to look upon evil and cannot tolerate wickedness and treachery." [Habakkuk 1. 13 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "It is HE WHO judges the world in righteousness, and HE shall administer judgment for the peoples in uprightness...HE is coming to rule the earth. With righteousness HE shall judge the world, and its peoples with equity." [Psalms (Tehillym) 9. 8; 98. 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim; also see Psalm 96. 10] "The LORD shall repay the evildoer according to his wickedness." [2 Samuel/Shemuel Bet 3. 39]

All are lost if GOD judges righteously, for "There is none righteous, no, not one" [Romans 3. 10; also Psalm 14. 1–3; 53. 1–4], and "cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the BOOK OF THE LAW, to do them." [Galatians 3. 10; also Deuteronomy 27. 26]

However, thankfully we can be shown GOD’S amazing mercy for "GOD was in CHRIST reconciling the world to HIMSELF...For HE made HIM who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of GOD in HIM." [2 Corinthians 5. 19, 21] The LORD JESUS CHRIST, GOD’S ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, our CREATOR and KINSMAN-REDEEMER, has taken our judgment on HIMSELF, and "there is therefore now no condemnation (judgment) to those who are in CHRIST JESUS, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the SPIRIT. For the Law of the SPIRIT OF LIFE in CHRIST JESUS has made me free from the Law of sin and death." [Romans 8. 1 - 2]

For that reason, "the FATHER judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the SON." [John 5. 22] The ALMIGHTY ONE can both judge righteously and yet graciously save all who receive HIS BELOVED SON, by faith — "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 from the dead"...therefore, "whoever believes in HIM will receive remission of sins." [Acts 17. 31; 10. 42]

The LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH is not only our MASTER-CREATOR and the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE. Furthermore, HE is our BELOVED REDEEMER, the GREAT MEDIATOR, MIGHTY COUNSELOR, GLORIOUS ADVOCATE, WONDERFUL SAVIOR, the PRINCE OF PEACE, and so much more!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
O GOD and FATHER, hear me as I pray with the Psalmist of old: So teach us to number our days rightly, that we may obtain a wise heart. And, may the hallowed influences of this day give us strength to do YOUR perfect will, O GOD, with a steadfast, submissive and loving spirit and with a heart of wisdom. Amen.
The LORD loves truth and peace: "Speak each man the truth to his neighbor; give judgment in your gates for truth, justice and peace; let none of you think evil in your heart against your neighbor; and do not love a false oath. For all these are things that I hate, says YEHOWAH, the GOD OF HOSTS." [Zechariah/Zecharyah 8. 16 - 17]
We pray for YOUR soon return, LORD, and expectantly desire to see YOUR glorious face. Speedily come, we pray!

Email: delrifkah@gmail.com

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

Admin Sun 30 Jun 2019, 9:52 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
If your life is a reed, you can be music if you allow the BREATH OF GOD to blow through you.

HEARING THE MASTER'S VOICE
"But if the slave declares — I love my master, and my wife and children; I do not wish to go free. Then his master shall take him before the judges. He shall be brought to the door or the doorpost, and his master shall pierce his ear with an awl; and he shall then remain his slave for life." [Exodus (Shemot) 21. 5 - 6 Tanakh, Torah]

This unique decree in the Mosaic Law is significant being the first one given after the Ten Commandments. It, and those following, centers first on the most humble members of society, the slaves, then on other people, then on property — thus establishing OMNIPOTENT GOD'S priorities. This was a foreshadowing of the voluntary submission of MESSIAH Y’SHUA, "WHO made HIMSELF of no reputation, and took upon HIM the form of a servant." [Philippians 2. 7] For Y’SHUA was sold for thirty pieces of silver, the price of a slave [Exodus/Shemot 21. 32; Matthew 26. 15], in order to identify with the church "in bringing many sons to glory, to make the AUTHOR of their salvation PERFECT THROUGH SUFFERINGS." [Hebrews 2. 10]

The Hebrew servant was obligated to serve his master for six years, with full right to be set free in the Sabbatical Year. If the master obtained a wife for him and then children followed, the law permitted the master to keep the wife and children in servitude while the man left with his freedom. However, if the servant chooses to remain with his wife and children, his ear is pierced choosing rather to do the will of his master forever, listening to his voice only. This commitment is illustrated and sealed by the "opening in his ear."

Just so, the coming SAVIOR, MESSIAH Y’SHUA would say: "MY ears YOU have opened (pierced)...then I said — Behold, I come; in the SCROLL OF THE BOOK it is written of ME — To do what pleases YOU, my GOD, is my desire; YOUR Law is in MY heart." [Psalms (Tehillym) 40. 6 - 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The fulfillment of this prophecy by YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is found in the book of Hebrews. [Hebrews 10. 5 - 10] There, the "opening of the ear" of the SERVANT is seen and understood as the enthusiastic zeal of HIS human body "to do YOUR will, O GOD. By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of JESUS CHRIST once for all." [Hebrews 10. 7, 10]

Y’SHUA, the TRUE VINE, could have "gone out free" — but, out of love for the FATHER and for those who would share HIS FATHER'S HOUSE with HIM, HE offered HIS body as a "FREE-WILL SACRIFICE" to accomplish the saving will of GOD ALMIGHTY.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Who is like YOU, FATHER of mercies WHO remembers YOUR children unto life. Praised are YOU, O LORD, WHO has implanted within us immortal life. YOU are holy; awe-inspiring is YOUR NAME. YOU alone are GOD. As is written: The LORD OF HOSTS is exalted through justice, and the ALMIGHTY ONE is sanctified through righteousness. Praised are YOU, O LORD, WHO rules in holiness.

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

Admin Sat 29 Jun 2019, 10:17 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Wisdom belongs to those who seek advise.

ANGELS ON ASSIGNMENT
"But there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the Gospel of CHRIST. But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other Gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed." [Galatians 1. 7 - 8]

Over the years people have been interested in angels. The HOLY BIBLE tells there are myriads of them and some of them are named. From the Book of Enoch: Uriel ("GOD is Light" — over worlds, luminaries & Sheol); Raphael (over spirits of men); Raquel ("the terrifier" — chastens the world of the luminaries); Michael ("who is like GOD?" — the archangel over people of Israel); Sariel (over spirits who seduce the spirits to sin); Gabriel ("man of GOD" — an archangel over paradise, the seraphym & cherubiym); Yerahmeel ("GOD is merciful" — over resurrection). From Jewish Theology: Sarha’olam (the prince of the world); Dumah ("death" — for ministering & destroying); Yorqemi (prince of fire); Radya (angel of rain); Ruach Pisonith (spirit of decision); Naqid (angel of food); Nabhel (angel of poverty); Lailah (angel of dreams). [Also the Many and the Mighty as they are portrayed in HOLY SCRIPTURE.]

However, angels are not to be worshipped nor sought after they are simply "ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation." [Hebrews 1. 14] In the final confident and audaciously bold reference to preaching the "Gospel" — we read in the NEW COVENANT that angels are flying through the sky declaring what the Apostle John called "the EVERLASTING GOSPEL" to "them that dwell on the earth." The message of that angel is — "Fear GOD and give glory to HIM, for the hour of HIS judgment has come; and worship HIM WHO made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water." [Revelation 14. 7]

It is quite clear that the GOSPEL of the angel was the same GOSPEL preached by Paul as it too was sent by GOD into the world to preach the PURE WORD OF GOD. Furthermore, it was the EVERLASTING GOSPEL and thus has always been the ONLY ONE TRUE MESSAGE from the beginning of time to the end of time.

The GOSPEL is identified in many different ways, however. Called first in Matthew, "preaching the GOSPEL of the Kingdom." [Matthew 4. 23] Mark speaks of "the GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST, the SON OF GOD." [Mark 1. 1] The Apostle Paul calls it "the GOSPEL of the grace of GOD" [Acts 20. 24], and "the GOSPEL of peace." [Romans 10. 15] Paul also speaks of "the GOSPEL of the glory of CHRIST, WHO is the IMAGE OF GOD." [2 Corinthians 4. 4], and "the GOSPEL of your salvation." [Ephesians 1. 13] It is frequently called "the GOSPEL of GOD" [Romans 1. 1; 15. 16; 2 Corinthians 11. 7; 1 Thessalonians 2. 2, 8, 9; 1 Peter 4. 17], and even more persistently, "the GOSPEL of CHRIST" [Romans 1. 16; 15. 19, 29; 1 Corinthians 9. 12, 18; 2 Corinthians 9. 13; Galatians 1. 7; Philippians 1. 27; 1 Thessalonians 3. 2] Nonetheless, the majority of times [about 83], the LIFE-GIVING WORD is simply called "the GOSPEL" as no other portrayal is at all needed.

The word gospel means "GOOD NEWS" and this is the wondrous message that centers on the glorious information of the PERSON and work of the LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH, from eternity to eternity. HE is our CREATOR, our EXAMPLE, our REDEEMER, our SAVIOR, our HOPE, our LIFE, our TREASURED LORD, and our ETERNAL KING.

Just as the angels will shout across the heavens in the last days, "worship HIM" we must also for HE alone is worthy of all our glory, honor, praise, adoration, complete respect and devotion.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
As we bid farewell to Shabbos, our prayer is that GOD, WHO separates the holy from the secular, forgive our sins. We share the blessed hope that every day will be as sweet as Shabbat...a rest of love freely given in truth and sincerity – a rest in peace and tranquility, quiet and safety — a perfect rest in which you find favor of the LORD Y’SHUA! May our HEAVENLY FATHER hear our prayers, that our long-awaited MESSIAH Y’SHUA, the SON OF DAVID, KING of kings comes quickly. And, may HIS Holy Temple be rebuilt speedily, even in our day, Amen! May you be blessed with love, hope, health, wisdom and GOD’S incredibly amazing grace as you seek HIM.
Tov Shavua — have a good week!

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

Admin Sat 29 Jun 2019, 10:06 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Envy is its own torment, it devours its bearer.

REFUSING TO HEAR
"So will I choose their delusions to mock them, to bring on them the very thing they dread. For I called and none responded, I spoke and none paid heed. Before MY eyes, they did what I deem evil and chose what I do not want." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 66. 5 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "Therefore I will destine you for the sword, you will all kneel down to be slaughtered — because, when I called, you did not answer; when I spoke, you would not listen. You did what I deemed evil and chose that in which I do not delight." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 65. 12 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

When we are disobedient to the LOVING MASTER, there are always consequences and HE is the PRAISEWORTHY & RIGHTEOUS JUDGE WHO has already warned us of the severe punishment for those who refuse HIS atonement. And this RIGHTEOUS, HOLY GOD cannot be bought with our much speech or sacrifices. Though Cain and Abel brought offerings and both were works of their hands, only Abel's was acceptable. Abel's was done in obedience to GOD'S WORD, blood was shed. Cain was without excuse for although he knew GOD, he did not glorify HIM as SOVEREIGN LORD OF THE UNIVERSE. The ALMIGHTY ONE spoke to Cain and said — "IF you do right, you will be accepted. But if you do not do right, sin couches at the door; its desire is for you, yet you must be its master." [Genesis (Bereshith) 4. 7 Tanakh, Torah] The HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL "knows deceitful men; HE also discerns iniquity." [Job (Iyowb) 11. 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The TRUE & FAITHFUL ONE accepts and demands obedience. Even the widows mite was considered a great treasure in the eyes of the LORD Y’SHUA, "Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all; for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for GOD, but she out of her poverty put in all the livelihood that she had." [Luke 21. 3 - 4]

"How long will you simple ones love simplicity, you scorners delight in scorning, and fools hate knowledge? You are indifferent to MY rebuke; I will now speak MY mind to you and let you know MY thoughts. Since you refused ME when I called, and paid no heed when I extended MY hand, you spurned all MY advice, and would not hear MY rebuke, I will laugh at your calamity, and mock when terror comes upon you, when terror comes like disaster, and calamity arrives like a whirlwind, when trouble and distress and anguish come upon you. Then they shall call ME but I will not answer; they shall seek ME diligently, but not find ME. Because they hated knowledge and did not choose fear of the LORD; they refused MY counsel and disdained all MY rebukes. Therefore, they shall eat the fruit of their ways, and have their fill of their own counsels. The tranquility of the simple will kill them, and the contentment of conceited fools will destroy them. But he who listens to ME will dwell in safety, untroubled by the terror of evil." [Proverbs (Mishle) 1. 22 - 33 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The LORD ETERNAL declares — "On this one will I look, on him who is poor and brokenhearted and of a contrite spirit, and who is concerned about MY WORD." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 66. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] For the obedient, righteous and faithful servants there is coming a great reward, for "a BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE has been written at HIS order concerning those who fear the LORD and esteem HIS NAME. On the day that I am preparing — says the LORD OF HOSTS — they shall be MY treasured possession, I will be tender toward them as a man is tender toward a son who ministers to him." [Malachi (Malakhi) 3. 16 - 17 Tanakh, Nevi'im] Whoever has ears, let them hear and obey the WORD OF THE LORD.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Blessed, praised, glorified, exalted, extolled, honored, magnified, and acclaimed be the NAME of the Most Holy One; though HE is high above all the blessings and all hymns, praises, and consolations, which are uttered in the world. We, the work of YOUR hands, love YOU, LORD GOD our precious HEAVENLY FATHER!
May peace abundant descend from heaven with life for us and to all Israel, and that very soon! 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

Admin Fri 28 Jun 2019, 10:54 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Ignorance is a bliss. . . until stupidity sets in.

TEACH ME YOUR WAY
"Let me know YOUR paths, O LORD; teach me YOUR ways. The secret of the LORD is for those who fear HIM; to them HE makes known HIS covenant." [Psalms (Tehillym) 25. 4, 14 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

"Indeed, the LORD GOD does nothing unless HE reveals HIS secret to HIS servants the prophets." [Amos (Amus) 3. 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im] Without a doubt, the HOLY ONE loves us and has shown it by giving HIS OWN SON, MESSIAH Y’SHUA, to pay our penalty, a price we could never satisfy. "Times for judgment are not hidden from the ALMIGHTY." [Job (Iyowb) 24. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

"The concealed acts belong to the LORD our GOD, but those things which are revealed is for us and our children ever to apply, that we may do all the words of this TEACHING." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 29. 29 Tanakh, Torah] "HIS secret counsel is with the upright." [Proverbs (Mishle) 3. 32 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "HE reveals deep and secret things; HE knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with HIM." [Daniel (Danyel) 2. 22 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The STRENGTH OF ISRAEL spoke in parables to fulfill that which was spoken of the prophets, "I will open MY mouth in parables; I will utter things kept secret from the foundation of the world." [Matthew 13. 35]

"It is the glory of GOD to conceal a matter, and the credit of kings to search out a matter." [Proverbs (Mishle) 25. 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The WORD OF GOD was given as a "mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but now has been revealed to HIS saints. To them GOD willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles — which is CHRIST in you, the Hope of Glory." [Colossians 1. 26 - 27] The things which the ALMIGHTY ONE has prepared for those who love HIM has been "revealed to us through HIS SPIRIT. For the SPIRIT searches all things, yes, the deep things of GOD." [1 Corinthians 2. 9 - 10] And, it is the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD WHO teaches us the things of our FAITHFUL & TRUE CREATOR.

The CHOSEN SERVANT, the LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA, with great authority has commissioned us to "Go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them — and teaching them to observe (obey) all things that I have commanded you." [Matthew 28. 19 - 20]

Those who belong to the ALMIGHTY LORD GOD OF HEAVEN can thank and praise HIM for HE has given us wisdom, knowledge, discernment and the ability to understand and personally know HIM in SPIRIT and in TRUTH intimately. How can one help but love, adore and obey HIM!
Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Good Sabbath - Welcoming the Bride of the Week! May you enjoy the rest of love freely given, a rest of truth and sincerity, a rest in peace and tranquility, in quiet and safety, and a perfect rest in which you find favor. Sabbath of Shelach – “Send Thou” [Reading: Numbers 13:1 - 15:41; Joshua 2:1-24; Matthew 1:1-14]
Gemach is an acronym for the Hebrew words gemilut chasadim — "acts of kindness" . . .be sure to do your share of "Gemach" every day. [The traditional Gemach was a free loan society.] To strengthen your spiritual roots (faith, devotion, love, communion and time with GOD in prayer), make your goal in life to grow deeper in the hidden, secret places so your life will bear much honorable fruit. Grant us clearness of vision, O LORD GOD, to see life as a whole — from youth to old age, and be comforted in confident-faith that with YOU, the best is yet to be. Have a peaceful, enriching Shabbat with an objective to bless others

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. . .
When we witness GOD'S hand in a coincidence, it is what you should in reality call a miracle.
ALEF-TAV
"I, the LORD, WHO was FIRST and will be the LAST as well." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 41. 4 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

The Hebrew word for first is "ri'shown" and last is "acharown." When the term "first and last" is used it also includes that which is in between. The first and last letters of the Hebrew alphabet, aleph and tav, are combined and this combination is found hundreds of times in HOLY SCRIPTURE; and every WORD OF GOD is in its appropriate position. The MIGHTY & HOLY CREATOR is declaring HIS NAME — "ALEF-TAV."

The GREAT GOD OF HEAVEN & EARTH gives HIS NAME — "ALEF-TAV" to JESUS, HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON! "Thus says the LORD, the KING OF ISRAEL, and HIS REDEEMER, the LORD OF HOSTS — I am the FIRST and I am the LAST, and there is no GOD but ME." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 44. 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im] Hence, the LORD GOD and HIS REDEEMER (Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH) both have the same identifying characteristic: ALEF-TAV, the FIRST and the LAST!

"I will fill the House of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem with the SPIRIT of Grace and Compassion; then they shall lament to ME about those who are slain; they will mourn and wail because of HIM as one mourns for his only son, and show bitter grief because of HIM as one grieves for a firstborn." [Zechariah (Zecharyah) 12. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

It is the DIVINE ALEF-TAF, the LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, WHO is promising to pour out the SPIRIT on the House of David; then HE affirms that HE is the PIERCED ONE WHO has been slain! "Behold, HE is coming with clouds, and every eye will see HIM, even they who pierced HIM. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of HIM. Even so, Amen" [Revelation 1. 7] "Then the sign of the SON OF MAN will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory." [Matthew 24. 30]

"I am the ALPHA and the OMEGA, the BEGINNING and the END — says the LORD, WHO is and WHO was and WHO is to come, the ALMIGHTY." [Revelation 1. 8] "And behold, I am coming quickly...I am the ALPHA and the OMEGA, the BEGINNING and the END, the FIRST and the LAST." [Revelation 22. 12 - 13]

Yes, the PIERCED ONE is the ALEF-TAF, the ALPHA-OMEGA (the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet correlates with the Hebrew, Alef-Tav). Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, the REDEEMER OF ISRAEL, is the FIRST and the LAST! GOD has already declared this to be HIS NAME!

Here is an interesting consideration: The ancient SINAI SCRIPT pictures the ox as the First letter and the cross as the last letter. The ox was the animal of sacrifice and many were killed on the altars in Jewish worship as commanded by the HOLY ONE. Not only was this first letter drawn in the shape of an ox, but the name of the letter (Alef) signifies the type of animal. The Last letter of the Hebrew alphabet, TAF expresses a sign or symbol. In the ancient writings, this letter was pictured as an X or cross!

In the legal systems, if a person could not write their name, they affixed a mark or cross instead. This sign or signature of the cross stands for the name as well as for the person who made it. The LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA is the SACRIFICIAL OX (alef) WHO died for our salvation, and HE made HIS signature, CROSS (tav), with HIS OWN blood — the Sign that represents HIS NAME and HIS PERSONAGE forever!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
GOD holds HIS people in the hottest part of the fire of suffering in order to completely purify us, but HE is with us throughout the process and never takes HIS eyes off us nor allows us to be destroyed. And the purification will be complete only when GOD can see HIS IMAGE in us…just as the silversmith holds the silver over the flame in order to burn away all the impurities. When it is fully refined, he can see his image in it.
It took the splitting of the Red Sea and the revelation at Mount Sinai to convince the Jewish people that the depths of their fiery suffering in Egypt had forged them into a people capable of experiencing the heights of Redemption and Revelation.

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

Admin Thu 27 Jun 2019, 10:21 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
There are no short cuts to any place worth going.

UNCHANGING
"My thoughts turn to days of old, to years long past." [Psalms (Tehillym) 77. 5 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The passage of time is fascinatingly clear in the perspective recording of HOLY SCRIPTURE. Some three thousand years ago, the psalmist was reflecting on GOD’S ways in the earliest of times and was searching diligently to understand the ways of EL SHADDAI in his time. Each generation renews the idea that their new ideas will lead the world out of its past darkness into a new age of enlightenment, explanations, and reasoning.

While research is needed, we need to keep in mind that true science is really thinking GOD’S thoughts after HIM, because the MASTER CREATOR made man in HIS OWN IMAGE to be creative — "GOD created man in HIS IMAGE; in the image of GOD HE created him; male and female HE created them. GOD blessed them and GOD said to them — Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and master it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the sky, and all the living things that move on the earth." [Genesis (Bereshith) 1. 27 – 28 Tanakh, Torah] All that man discovers should always be to glorify the GREAT DESIGNER and to draw men closer to HIM, not lead them away from HIM.

We are merely the children of ancient patriarchs, and our moral natures are the same as theirs, all contaminated by inherent sinfulness and the need of a SAVIOR. The HOLY ONE, blessed be HE, dealt with our ancestors in times past the same way HE does with us, so every generation — from Adam on — desperately needs to study and learn from those who have gone before and from GOD’S INSPIRED BOOK OF HISTORY of them. The ANCIENT BOOKS — from Genesis through Revelation — are for our understanding and comprehending our CREATOR. "For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the SCRIPTURES might have hope." [Romans 15. 4]

For the mature in faith, it is no obstacle to believe that GOD is the same today as HE was when HE formed the universe, was in the Garden of Eden, opened the Red Sea, spoke on Mount Sinai, delivered Elijah on Mount Karam’El, saved Daniel in the lion’s den; walked in on the waters of Galilee, multiplied the loaves and fish, and went to Calvary. "JESUS CHRIST is the same yesterday, today, and forever." [Hebrews 13. 8] "O LORD, YOU have been our DWELLING PLACE in every generation. Before the mountains were brought forth, before YOU had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting (Hebrew: owlam) to everlasting, YOU are GOD." [Psalms (Tehillym) 90. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

This same GREAT, MIGHTY & AWESOME GOD is still waiting for us to come to HIM, desiring to be the SECURE SHELTER from all the evils in a world that is so dark and has turned so far from HIM. From everlasting throughout all eternity, HE alone is GOD.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Praised are YOU, O LORD our GOD, WHO directs the destinies of men and nations according to YOUR wisdom and justice.
Do not fear the battles when you are in the center of GOD’S purposes, embrace them. What is of the HOLY ONE will be opposed, and that which is good is worth fighting for. Fight the good fight of faith and you will prevail. Blessed is the man who forgets YOU not, for he who seeks YOU will not stumble, and he who trusts in YOU will not be put to shame.

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

Admin Wed 26 Jun 2019, 9:56 am

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
One is free — not when he can do what he wishes to do — but when he wishes to do and can do what he should do.

TRUTH, THE EVIDENCE
"If anyone wants to do HIS will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from GOD or whether I speak on MY OWN authority. He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but HE WHO seeks the glory of the ONE WHO sent HIM is true, and no unrighteousness is in HIM." [John 7. 17 - 19]

When the LORD JESUS spoke these words, HE was speaking to arrogant religionists who regarded HIM as nothing but a wandering TEACHER, rejecting HIS TEACHINGS, even though they knew these precepts were recorded facts. MESSIAH Y’SHUA'S rebuke of these hypocrites is a timeless standard for recognizing GOD'S truth and knowing HIS desire. In his last epistle, the Apostle Paul wrote about certain academic philosophers and academic thinkers who would be "always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." Then, Paul continues to make it perfectly clear as to why such corrupt persons, though educated, are still incapable of accepting real truth, they simply "resist the truth...but they will progress no further, for their folly will be manifest to all." [2 Timothy 3. 7 - 9]

It is not that they could not learn the truth, but they would not because they are not willing to believe or obey the truth when they learned it. They are basically unwilling to believe doctrine plainly revealed in the LORD GOD'S WRITTEN PURE WORD OF TRUTH when it is in conflict with doctrines based exclusively on human reasoning.

For this reason, Y’SHUA, the FAITHFUL SHEPHERD prayed, "I thank YOU, FATHER, LORD OF HEAVEN & EARTH, that YOU have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to babes. Even so, FATHER, for so it seemed good in YOUR sight." [Matthew 11. 25 - 26]

GOD'S will is always consistent with HIS TEACHING, which is written to be easily understood by anyone who is willing to believe what HE said and do it. Hide HIS TREASURED PROMISES in your heart, it is the most commendable thing you can do for yourself. "YOUR WORD I have hidden in my heart, that I do not sin against YOU!" [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim

"Be diligent (study attentively) to present yourself approved to GOD, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the WORD OF TRUTH. But shun (avoid, keep away from) profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness." [2 Timothy 2. 15 - 16] May we live to keep GOD'S WORD and the wisdom of HIS TEACHINGS.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
There is a place for believers in the midst of a pagan society — a challenging position of change and conflict overwhelmed with problems and full of difficulties. For the fainthearted, this is threatening; for the audacious, courageous and noble-minded — exciting. Try a little exhilarating excitement as you observe and remember the wonders of the BELOVED CREATOR! Blessed be our GREAT GOD in WHOSE dwelling is joy and through WHOSE goodness we live.

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

Admin Tue 25 Jun 2019, 9:31 am

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Bless the moment and the years will be their own blessing.

APPLE OF THE EYE
"Display YOUR faithfulness in wondrous deeds, YOU WHO delivers with YOUR right hand those who seek refuge from assailants. Guard me like the apple of YOUR eye; hide me in the shadow of YOUR wings." [Psalms (Tehillym) 17. 7 - 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The LORD GOD says, "I will instruct you and show you which way to go; let ME offer counsel; I will guide you with MY eye." [Psalms (Tehillym) 32. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The apple of the eye is the phrase used to speak of something as being highly valuable to the owner. The Hebrew word 'iyshown means the little man or pupil of the eye and 'ayin is the word for the eye meaning favor, regard or thought. Therefore, to be kept as the Apple of the Eye would be to say, "keep me as the center of YOUR favor, affection, choice, or preference; and in YOUR care and constant consideration."

The GOD MOST HIGH'S portion is HIS people, Jacob HIS OWN inheritance, and Israel and Jerusalem as being the apple of HIS eye: "HE (ALMIGHTY GOD) found him (Israel) in a desert land and in the wasteland, a howling wilderness; HE encircled him, HE instructed him, HE kept him (Israel) as the apple of HIS eye. Like an eagle rouses his nestlings, gliding down to his young, so did HE (the HOLY ONE OF JACOB) spread HIS wings and take him (Israel), bearing him along on HIS pinions; the LORD alone did guide him, no alien god at HIS side." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 32. 10 - 12 Tanakh, Torah]

"Jerusalem shall be inhabited a city without walls, so many shall be the men and cattle it contains. And I MYSELF — declares the LORD — will be a WALL OF FIRE all around her, and I will be "THE GLORY" in her midst. For thus said the LORD OF HOSTS — HE WHOSE PRESENCE sent ME concerning the nations that have taken you to spoil: "Whoever touches you touches the apple of MY eye." [Zechariah (Zecharyah) 2. 4-5, 8 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

"Shout for joy, Fair Zion! For lo, I come; and I will dwell in your midst — declares the LORD. In that day many nations shall be joined to the LORD and become MY people, and I will dwell in your midst. Then you will know that I was sent to you by the LORD OF HOSTS. The LORD will allot Judah his portion in the Holy Land, and will choose Jerusalem once more. Be silent, all flesh, before the LORD! For HE is roused from HIS holy habitation!" [Zechariah (Zecharyah) 2. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

To be kept as the apple of the eye of the GREAT ETERNAL LORD GOD requires our essential trust in HIM and HIS LIFE-GIVING WORD. We must keep HIS WORD as the APPLE of our eye. "MY son, keep MY WORDS, and treasure MY commands within you. Keep MY commands and live, and MY Law as the APPLE of your eye." [Proverbs (Mishle) 7. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim] How very sweet and nourishing are HIS righteous laws and precepts.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Quickened by YOUR SPIRIT, MOST HOLY ONE WHO we honor and praise, may we learn how to ennoble the things of earth by sanctifying them to YOUR service. Encourage us to watch and pray because the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA is coming soon to set up HIS Kingdom. Those who love HIS NAME shall dwell in it, and the descendants of HIS servants shall inherit it. May the REDEEMER of all ages make you holy and may you grow in HIS knowledge, wisdom and favor. 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

Admin Mon 24 Jun 2019, 11:13 am

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Israel…”a Bridge of the nations.”

PROMISED RESTORATION
"For thus said the LORD — As I have brought this great calamity upon this people, so I will bring upon them all the good which I promised them." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 32. 42 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

GOD never winked at the sins of Israel, "For she has received from the hand of the LORD double for all her sins." [Isaiah/Yeshayah 40. 2] But the IMMUTABLE COVENANTS OF GOD were not altered. The promise to Abraham and to his seed stands! Our GOD keeps faith with the dead. True, terrible judgments fell on faithless Israel, but those judgments were not permitted to destroy her. "For I am with you to deliver you — declares the LORD, I will make an end of all nations where I have scattered you, but I will not make a complete end of you! I will not leave you unpunished, but will chastise you in measure." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 30. 11 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

Like the rejected MESSIAH Y’SHUA, the Jew is also "a man of sorrow and acquainted with grief." Although the poison venom of the neo-anti-Semitism fills the world, it is done in vain even though they continually try to exterminate the Jewish people. Despite the fact that both the Jew and MESSIAH have been loathed throughout time, you can neither curse them, for they are blessed; you cannot destroy them for they raise again. MESSIAH Y’SHUA, died and victoriously rose again for our justification; the Jews continue to raise up, because of GOD’S unfailing promise.

GOD forbid that you, a follower of CHRIST, become infected with the virus of the world’s most morbid disease — anti-Semitism — as some have been. If the Jew needs chastisement for offenses, imaginary or otherwise, bear in mind that your GOD has said: "Vengeance belongs to ME, I will recompense. And again, the LORD (not you) shall judge HIS people." [Hebrews 10. 30]

It is not for you to "persecute him whom GOD has smitten. [Psalms/Tehillym 69. 26] In this age of grace, the HOLY ONE may permit the rod for their correction to be held in the hand of paganized (fearful), or paranoid persons, but never in the hand of a born-again child of HIS grace. Don’t forget, the RIGHTEOUS ONE emphasizing, "Salvation" — not destruction — "is of the Jews." [John 4. 22]

Though much tribulation and anguish has been heaped upon the Jewish people, GOD promises them: "Behold, the days are coming — says the LORD — when I will sow the House of Israel and the House of Judah with seed of men and the seed of cattle. And just as I was watchful over them to uproot and to pull down, to over throw and to destroy and to bring disaster, so I will watch over them to build and to plant — declares the LORD." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 31. 27 - 28 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

The Plan of GOD will never perish in the course of time; the holy fire cannot be suppressed nor extinguished by the many storms which rage against us, but it has been kindled all the more shinning brighter and more clearly, filled with the most ennobling thoughts, and ever extending HIS rule with the forward movements of time. What GOD has determined, will be done and HIS amazing grace will fill the whole world for HE is the ALMIGHTY GOD of the Jew and the Gentile alike!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Through the common days flow the refreshing waters of GOD'S loving-kindness, yet we forget HIM, the only SOURCE. May this hour awaken within us a sense of our dependence upon YOU, O LORD, create in us a clean heart and renew a right spirit within us that we may face our daily duty with a firm courage and a tranquil mind. May we learn to know that in loving and serving our fellowmen, we are loving and serving YOU, the TRUE SOURCE of our livelihood: OUR BELOVED 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

Admin Sat 22 Jun 2019, 6:15 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
GOD has a history of using the insignificant to accomplish the impossible.

CHARIOTS & JUDGMENT
"The chariots dash about frenzied in the fields, they rush through the meadows. They appear like torches, they race like streaks of lightning." [Nahum (Nachum) 2. 4 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

"For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more." [Luke 12. 48] Nineveh had been given the privilege of knowing the ONE TRUE GOD. Under Jonah’s preaching, this great city had repented and, the ALMIGHTY ONE had graciously held back HIS judgment. However, one hundred years later, it becomes incurably apostate. Nahum proclaims the downfall of this same city. The Assyrians (Assyria is modern-day Iraq) have forgotten the GOD of Jacob and returned to their habits of violence, idolatry, and arrogance. As a result, Babylon so destroyed the city that no trace of it remains — a prophecy fulfilled in painful detail as Nahum’s prophecies were fulfilled. This was accomplished at the hands of the Chaldeans and the Medes.

The entire book of Nahum (Hebrew meaning: "comfort of YEHOWAH") deals with the coming destruction of Assyria, especially its great capital, Nineveh which had appeared to be invincible. This was one of the most viciously aggressive and cruel empires in all history, bitterly opposed to the LORD GOD OF HEAVEN and HIS rule as CREATOR. Assyrians had been allowed by GOD to punish the ten tribes of Israel, carrying them into captivity. But, their own time of judgment was coming!

Nahum gives other prophecies that are both immediate and future fulfillment as in other OLD COVENANT passages. Nahum prophesied the ruin of Nineveh and also the great judgment of the last days: "The mountains quake because of HIM, the hills melt before HIM, and the earth burns at HIS PRESENCE. Yes, the world and all who dwell therein...And with a sweeping flood HE will make an utter end of those who oppose HIM, and darkness pursues HIS enemies." [Nahum (Nachum) 1. 5, 8 Tanah, Nevi’im] Take heed, there is vengeance in the MASTER OF WRATH’S judgment because, "GOD is jealous (EL QUANNA), the LORD is passionate, avenging; the LORD is vengeful and fierce in wrath. The LORD will take vengeance on HIS adversaries, HE rages against HIS enemies. The LORD is slow to anger and of great forbearance (patience, mercy), and will not at all acquit (free, exonerate) the wicked." [Nahum (Nachum) 1. 2 - 3 Tanah, Nevi’im]

Whether it be powerful, raging chariots — as used in fighting in ancient Nineveh — or prefiguring terrifyingly, lethal attack vehicles of these present last days, the burning message of Nahum is that apostasy (desertion, betrayal), violence, corruption, and cruelty eventually bring terrible judgment and utter destruction. And today, the destruction of the capital city of Assyria is also a message of comfort and consolation to the great Land of Israel and all who live in fear of the cruelty of the Assyrians and her other infamously notorious enemies. From this, we learn to be zealously resolute to stand fast, GOD is in full and complete control but man has choices to make.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Welcome Sabbath, Queen of the Week! Sabbath of Beha’alotcha – “When You Set Up” [Reading: Numbers 8:1 - 12:16; Zechariah 2:10 –4:7; Matthew 14:14-21]

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 bestow on us day by day. Truly, YOUR mercies never fail and YOUR loving-kindness never ceases. Therefore do we forever put our trust in YOU! Thank YOU LORD for saving my soul! Daily, walk with GOD through the week and HE will bless and keep you close.

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

Admin Fri 21 Jun 2019, 10:09 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
People who think they are more important than others have forgotten what is important.

CRY OF GOD'S HEART
"O, that they had such a heart in them that they would revere ME and follow all MY commandments, that it may be well with them and with their children forever!" [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 5. 29 Tanakh, Torah]

To know the MERCIFUL GOD OF HEAVEN, we must "listen!" He tells us, "I am the FIRST, and I am the LAST as well." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 48. 12 Tanakh, Nevi'im] And we must believe that HE is the only GOD and love HIM alone. "Hear, O Israel! the LORD, our GOD, the LORD is ONE! You shall love the LORD your GOD with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 6. 4 - 5 Tanakh, Torah]

ALMIGHTY GOD, in HIS tender compassionate kindness, desires, "if only MY people would listen to ME, that they would obey ME and follow MY paths!" [Psalms (Tehillym) 81. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Instead, the nations are void of counsel and there is no understanding in them. The people utterly corrupted themselves with evil and have turned aside from the LORD'S commands, even denying HIS existence. Our sins are done in the open for all to see; and in belligerent, hostile, defiance we have provoked the RIGHTEOUS ONE to anger.

Our response to the SOVEREIGN LORD should be to "Listen to (HIS) counsel and accept discipline in order that you may be wise in your latter days. Many designs are in a man's mind, but it is the LORD'S plan that stands and will be accomplished." [Proverbs (Mishle) 19. 20 - 21 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The HOLY ONE declares, "When MY people who bear MY NAME humble themselves, pray, and seek MY face and turn from their evil ways, I will hear in MY heavenly abode and forgive their sin and heal their land." [2 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Bet) 7. 14 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

As we earnestly obey, the GENTLE MASTER will "teach us to number our days rightly" so we will gain a heart of wisdom and HE will have compassion on us. [Psalms/Tehillym 90. 8 - 13] "What does the LORD your GOD demand of you? Only this, to revere the LORD your GOD, to walk only in HIS paths, to love HIM, and to serve the LORD your GOD with all of your heart and soul." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 10. 12 Tanakh, Torah] "Obey the VOICE OF THE LORD your GOD, to keep HIS commandments and HIS statutes which are recorded in this BOOK OF THE TEACHING." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 30. 10 Tanakh, Torah] IF we love HIM, this is something we will want to do, not something we have to do.

The LOVING LORD GOD promises that "you will find HIM, IF only you seek HIM with all your heart and soul." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 29 Tanakh, Torah] Those who have a tender heart to seek the BLESSED SAVIOR and humble themselves before HIM, HE will give them the understanding to acknowledge "that I am the LORD. They shall be MY people and I will be their GOD when they turn back to ME with their whole heart." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 24. 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Both Jews and Gentiles can receive the POWER OF GOD and the WISDOM OF GOD, in MESSIAH Y’SHUA. [1 Corinthians 1. 24] Nehemiah was a good example for everyone with a heart for the LORD to follow — "he read from the BOOK OF THE TEACHING OF GOD each day from the First to the Last day." [Nehemiah (Nechemah) 8. 18 Tanakh, Kethuvim] If one were wise, they would contemplate their eternal worth and redeem the time. "Oh that they were wise, they would think upon this, they would consider their Latter End." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 32. 29 Tanakh, Torah] LORD, bind us closer to YOU and keep us strong.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Abraham knew he would never have a child. Moses knew no one would follow him. David knew he would always honor the ALMIGHTY ONE. Peter knew he would never disown Y’SHUA. The Apostles knew the Gospel was not meant for Gentiles. And Paul (Saul) knew followers of the WAY were enemies of GOD.
All of them believed they “knew it all.” But, they were wrong. So what are we to do? Seek and pursue the Kingdom of GOD. [Luke 12:31a] Make every effort to do good to others. [1 Corinthians 10:24] Live in peace with each other; be sympathetic, compassionate, kind, gentle, humble, and patient. [1 Peter 3:8, Colossians 3:12] Show consideration and value to everyone. [1 Peter 2:17a] Never revenge evil with evil or insult with insult. [1 Peter 3:9] Forgive as GOD has forgiven us. [Colossians 3:13] Always love and encourage each other even more. [John 13:34-35, Hebrews 3:13, 1 Thessalonians 4:10b]

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. . .
GOD has not promised us tomorrow, but HE has promised us eternity!

LIGHT TO GENTILES
"For HE has said — It is too small a thing that YOU should be MY SERVANT (Hebrew: ebed) in that I raise up the tribes of Jacob and restore the survivors of Israel: I will also make YOU a LIGHT to the Gentiles, that YOU should be MY SALVATION to reach the ends of the earth." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 49. 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Here GOD THE FATHER is speaking to GOD THE WORD as HE is about to announce the PROMISED SEED, the SAVIOR of the world would come to bring salvation to a lost, sinful world. Not only the restoration of Israel, GOD'S elect nation, but salvation to all the Gentile nations throughout the earth. What the LORD has spoken, HE will bring to pass for HE designed it and will see that it is completed.

The old and revered prophet, Simeon, referred to this prophetic text when he took the infant JESUS into his arms and proclaimed, "LORD, now YOU are letting YOUR servant depart in peace, according to YOUR WORD; for my eyes have seen YOUR SALVATION which YOU have prepared before the face of all peoples, a LIGHT to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of YOUR people Israel." [Luke 2. 29 - 32]

The OLD COVENANT again prophecies that MESSIAH would come into the world to seek and save the lost and dying of humanity. "Behold! This is MY SERVANT, WHOM I uphold, MY ELECT ONE in WHOM I delight! I have put MY SPIRIT upon HIM, HE shall teach the True Way to the Gentiles...I, the LORD, in MY grace have called YOU in righteousness, and will hold YOUR hand. I will keep YOU and give YOU as a covenant to the people, as a LIGHT to the Gentiles, to open blind eyes, to rescue prisoners from confinement, from the dungeon those who sit in darkness." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 42. 1, 6 – 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Even the Magi's coming to worship the CHILD Y’SHUA in Beit Lechem is foretold: "Arise, Shine! For your LIGHT has come! And the KABOD (PRESENCE) OF THE LORD is risen upon you. Behold! Darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; but upon you the LORD will shine, and HIS GLORY (PRESENCE) will be seen over you. The Gentiles shall come to YOUR LIGHT, and kings to the brightness of YOUR radiance." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 60. 1 – 3 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

In Antioch, the Apostle Paul proclaimed this truth when he preached to the Gentiles there and everywhere else he spoke. "I have set you as a light to the Gentiles, that you should be for salvation to the ends of the earth." [Acts 13. 47] And he witnessed to both small and great "that the MESSIAH would suffer, that HE would be the first to rise from the dead, and would proclaim light to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles." [Acts 26. 23]

The LORD Y’SHUA not only enlightens both the Jews and the Gentiles, but HE is indeed "ha'NER ha’olam" — the LIGHT of the world, "ha'NER chai" the LIGHT of life. What a MIGHTY GOD we serve joyously!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
May you be blessed with joy, good health, peace, and all the best things ALMIGHTY GOD has prepared for 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

Admin Wed 19 Jun 2019, 10:25 am

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
When you fulfill CREATOR GOD'S commands, you are actively "kissing the SON" by demonstrating honor for HIM.

KEEPING THE LAW
"Whoever looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does." [James 1. 25]

There are many things mentioned in the Law of the ALMIGHTY ONE that must be remembered and never forgotten. "MY son, do not forget MY Law (teaching), but let your mind retain MY commandments." [Proverbs (Mishle) 3. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "You shall faithfully observe all the INSTRUCTIONS that I enjoin upon you today that you may live and increase and be able to possess the land that the LORD promised on oath to your fathers." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 8. 1 Tanakh, Torah]

Again from Deuteronomy, the BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE, Moses continually instructed GOD'S people to "Remember! Never Forget!" [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 9. 7 Tanakh, Torah] "Take utmost care and watch yourselves scrupulously (carefully), so that you do not forget the things that you saw with your own eyes and so that they do not fade from your heart and mind as long as you live. And make them known to your children and your children's children." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 9 Tanakh, Torah] "Take care then, not to forget the covenant that the LORD your GOD concluded with you, and not to make for yourselves a carved image in any likeness, against which the LORD your GOD has forbidden you." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 23 Tanakh, Torah] "Take heed! Do not forget the LORD WHO freed you and brought you out of the land of Egypt, the house of bondage. Revere only the LORD your GOD and worship HIM alone, and swear only by HIS NAME. Do not follow other gods, any gods of the people about you — for the LORD your GOD in your midst is a QANNA (jealous, impassioned) GOD — lest the anger of the LORD your GOD blaze forth against you and HE wipe you off the face of the earth. Do not tempt the LORD your GOD...keep the commandments, decrees, and laws that the LORD your GOD enjoined upon you." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 6. 12 - 17 Tanakh, Torah]

Then in the NEW COVENANT, Peter warns those who were in danger of becoming forgetful hearers of the WORD OF GOD: "Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder) that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the LORD and SAVIOR, knowing this first — that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts." [2 Peter 3. 1 - 3]

Believers must remember the PURE WORD in order to counter the teaching of the false prophets, false teachers, and scoffers who would bring in damnable heresies. "For this reason I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things, though you know and are established in the present truth." [2 Peter 1. 12]

Destruction comes on those who forget the HOLY ONE'S INSTRUCTIONS, "MY people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge and obedience, I reject you as MY priest; because you have spurned the teaching and forgotten the Law of your GOD. I in turn, will spurn and forget your children. The more they increased, the more they sinned against ME; I will change their dignity and glory into shame and dishonor." [Hosea (Hoshea) 4. 6 - 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

David, king of Israel declared, "I study and meditate on YOUR precepts, I contemplate and regard YOUR ways. I take delight in YOUR Laws; I will not neglect nor forget YOUR WORD." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 15 - 16 Tanakh, Kethuvim] O, that we ever delight in the LAW OF THE LORD and constantly meditate and reflect on it. "Give me understanding that I may observe YOUR teaching and keep it wholeheartedly. Lead me in the path of YOUR commandments, for that is my delight." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 34 - 35 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
May that be our prayer each day!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
CREATOR of the Universe, we come before YOU to praise and extol YOUR greatness and goodness. YOU, LORD GOD, are the FOUNTAIN from which all blessings flow. In all the experiences of life, we recognize that YOUR guiding hand establishes our work and that YOUR love lifts our lives to nobler effort. May the inspiration of this day strengthen our faith in YOU. Purify our spirits that in our daily tasks we may be conscious of YOUR PRESENCE. Continue to bestow YOUR benediction on us and teach us to seek YOU ever more. Help us to live that when we have gathered our final harvest, many shall rise up with us to magnify and bless YOUR MOST-PRECIOUS NAME.

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.

Email: delrifkah@gmail.com

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

Admin Sun 16 Jun 2019, 9:48 pm

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Youth is what only the young have; but only the old know how to use it!

CONSEQUENCES OF COMPROMISING
"Jehu, son of Hanani the seer, went out to meet King Jehoshaphat and said to him, ‘Should you help the wicked and befriend those who hate the LORD? For this, wrath is upon you from the LORD.’" [2 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Bet) 19. 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Jehoshaphat was a godly king in Judah who faithfully served the AMAZING ALMIGHTY GOD, except for making the tragic mistake of forming an partnership with the ungodly and wicked King Ahab of Israel to fight against Syria, their common enemy. After all — Jehoshaphat reasoned — they were fellow-Israelites, both being descended from Abraham, Isaac, And Jacob; therefore they may as well join together to conquer and defeat the Syrians..

In spite of this horrible error made by Jehoshaphat, the LORD GOD continued to bless him throughout his lifetime. Nevertheless, this compromise eventually resulted in great tragedy in his family as a result of this affiliation; Jehoram, Jehoshaphat’s son and successor married Ahab’s dreadfully evil daughter, Athaliah. Then Jehoram slew all his own brothers, and soon died of a loathsome disease.

"Jehoram proceeded to take firm hold of his father’s kingdom, he strengthened himself and killed all his brothers with the sword, and also others of the princes of Israel... He followed the practices of the kings of Israel, just as the house of Ahab had done, for he married the daughter of Ahab; he did evil in the sight of the LORD... Then it happened in the course of time, after the end of two years, that his intestines came out because of his disease; so he died in severe and gruesome pain. And his people made no burning for him, like the burning for his fathers." [2 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Bet) 21. 4, 6, 19 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The road of compromise eventually ends in a precipice, especially in matters regarding the integrity of GOD’S HOLY WORD and HIS saving GOSPEL.. The timeless principle for those who follow MESSIAH YESHUA today is given in the NEW COVENANT, "Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness (the infidel)? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has CHRIST with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the Temple of GOD with idols? For you are the temple of the LIVING GOD. As GOD has said: "I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their GOD, and they shall be MY people." Therefore, Come out from among them and be separate — says the LORD. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you. I will be a FATHER to you, and you shall be MY sons and daughters — says the LORD ALMIGHTY." [2 Corinthians 6. 14 - 18]

This warning and command is needed today as much as it was in Paul’s day. Now in our present times, spiritual, moral, and religious compromise seems to be a vast-growing epidemic in the CHRISTian realm, in both doctrine and practice, and GOD warns us that tragedy is imminent. "Depart! Depart! Go out from there, touch no unclean thing." [Isaiah/Yeshayah 52. 11] Separate yourself from the things of the world, and do not profane GOD’S HOLY NAME by following the evil ways, be holy in both body and spirit.

Compromising is giving in to the enemy and dilutes your beliefs in order to gain favor with the world. GOD’S TRUTH is the only power to salvation. "The GOSPEL (GOOD NEWS) of MESSIAH is the Power of GOD to salvation for everyone who believes." [Romans 1. 16] Salvation and glory and honor and power belong to the AWESOME LORD our GOD alone! Alleluia!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Welcome Sabbath - Sabbath of Nasso – “Make An Accounting” [Reading: Numbers 4:21 - 7:89; Judges 13:2–25; Luke 1:11-20]
Let us lift up our hearts and our hands to GOD in heaven for HIS loving-kindness. The LORD is mighty over us and we are ever thankfully indebted to YOU, O MERCIFUL GOD. May we examine our ways, test them, and return to YOU, O MOST HIGH.
O LORD, our GUIDE even unto death, grant us, we pray, grace to follow YOU , not only on the Sabbath, but through out our lives. In our daily duties, bow our wills to simple obedience, grant patience under pain or frustration, strict truthfulness of word and deed, humility, kindness; in great acts of duty or perfection, if YOU should call us to them, uplift us to self-sacrifice and courage to lay down our life for YOUR truth’s sake, or for our brother. Thank YOU, our HEAVENLY FATHER, for YOUR righteousness and keeping us under YOUR sheltering wing.

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. . .
Nothing is more exhilarating then being shot at without results.

SERVED OR SERVANT
"But many who are first will be last, and the last first." [Matthew 19. 30]

Mordecai was a faithful servant of GOD MOST HIGH. The Amalekite, Haman not only wanted to be served, but also worshipped in his high ranking position in the Persian Kingdom. Haman’s hatred for the Jewish people caused him to receive the fate he intended for Mordecai. [Book of Esther] "Amalek (the father of the Amalekites) was first among the nations; but shall be last and is to perish forever." [Numbers (B'Midvar) 24. 20 Tanakh, Torah]

The Jewish people are first, in that the LORD GOD entrusted the ORACLES OF THE LAW to them [Romans 3. 1 - 2], and they were to be a light to the Gentiles, teaching salvation to the ends of the earth. "I, the LORD, in MY grace, have summoned you, and I have grasped you by the hand. I created you, and appointed you a Covenant People a light to the Gentiles." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 42. 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "For HE has said — It is too small a thing that you should be MY servant in that I raise up the tribes of Jacob and restore the survivors of Israel; I will also make you a light to the Gentiles, that MY salvation may reach to the ends of the earth." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 49. 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im] However, they not only failed to evangelize the Gentiles. But moreover, they rejected GOD'S SON, MESSIAH Y’SHUA OF NAZARETH. Therefore, they made themselves last.

The Gentiles, who were last, those who accept "THE WAY" to the ALMIGHTY ONE through the shed blood of MESSIAH Y’SHUA have become first. "So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen." [Matthew 20. 16] "They (Jew & Gentile) will come from the east and the west, from the north and the south, and sit down in the Kingdom of GOD. And indeed, there are last who will be first, and there are first who will be last." [Luke 13. 29 - 30]

The LORD JESUS taught, "If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all." [Mark 9. 35] Two of HIS disciples, James and John, had ask to sit next to the MASTER in HIS glory. Y’SHUA replied — "it is not MINE to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared." Then HE called all twelve disciples to HIMSELF and expressed, "You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. For even the SON OF MAN did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give HIS life a ransom for many." [Mark 10. 35 - 45]

Those who are first will serve the irreplaceable LORD Y’SHUA fittingly that they may hear HIM say — "Well done! good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your LORD." [Matthew 25. 21] But to the one who wants to be served, HE calls them "unprofitable servant" and they will be "cast into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." [Matthew 25. 30]

"Behold! I am coming quickly, and MY reward is with ME, to give to every one according to his work. I am the ALPHA and the OMEGA, the BEGINNING and the END, the FIRST and the LAST. Blessed are those who do HIS commandments, that they may have the right to the Tree of Life, and may enter through the gates into the City." [Revelation 22. 12 - 14] Such a Glorious Day that will be!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Through the common days flow the refreshing waters of GOD'S loving-kindness, yet we forget HIM, the only SOURCE. May this hour awaken within us a sense of our dependence upon YOU, O LORD, create in us a clean heart and renew a right spirit within us that we may face our daily duty with a firm courage and a tranquil mind. May we learn to know that in loving and serving our fellowmen, we are loving and serving YOU, the TRUE SOURCE of our livelihood: OUR BELOVED LORD GOD.

Blessing and glory and wisdom, thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to the LORD our GOD forever and ever, Amen!
May our blessings be heard and welcomed! May peace abundant descend from heaven with life for us and to all Israel. Amen & 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.

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