Day 59 - Leviticus 4 - 5:13 & Psalm 59

 Julie

I am going to focus more on the explanation that the Bible gave for today's reading because I feel it gave a good synopsis of what was happening. This reading was really focusing specifically on unintentional or accident sin that is committed and what they had to do to atone once they realized that they had sinned. The offerings that were required for this were considered purifying/purification offerings. 

Psalm 59 is David praying to God for protection from his enemies and praising God's steadfast love. I think one of the things that we can glean from David's Psalms is that no matter what he is going through he always turns to and trusts in God's protection and guidance. He does show true faith from what I can see.

 

Michelle

So for some reason when I started reading this I was confused about unintentional sin.  It took me a while to relate it to accidental things that could happen, as I just kept thinking how do you sin unintentionally,  how do you not know that you are sinning.  The devotional tied to the next section had something that kind of brought it together for me as I have been very lost on the whole sacrificing animals and such for atonement.  But it described it as a blood sacrifice and when you read it it is asking for your very best animal for the sacrifice.  Not sure why this is what it took to finally put the pieces together.  As Julie said before, it relates later on to the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and that he gave his life and blood to atone for all sin that had been committed and is yet to come.  

 The psalm is David turning to God in his time of need, singing his praises and asking for protection.  I found it interesting in verse 11 that he asks God not to kill them.  This really stood out to me for some reason.  He does appear to have the true faith as you stated.  I am not sure I can say the same at this point in my life.  I try to remember this but find that at times I rely on myself first instead of turning to God in my time of need.  This is a good reminder. 

Day 58 - Leviticus 3 & Psalm 58

 Julie

Today was learning more rules about sacrifices, focusing specifically on peace. I think it can be a bit confusing because there are things that say not to necessary try to take this literally as something we should as specifically as it is mentioned here, and then you see some denominations follow some of these rules implicitly...not necessarily the sacrifice part but the rules on which parts can be consumed.

Psalm 58 is one that we could be praying now as it is a hymn that is sung because they are confronted with unjust rulers. I think that in our current situation we are experiencing that with some of our "rulers".

Michelle

So a lot must change once we hit the New Testament cuz all these offerings are not followed by most religions anymore. 

The psalm does seem to be asking if our rulers are being fair and just.  I can see the correlation to times now.  It seems the writer is asking God to bring his wrath on the wicked so as to show people the righteous are rewarded and the unrighteous are judged.

Day 57 - Leviticus 1-2 & Psalm 57

 Julie

Today we begin a new book and it starts with explanation of the the sacrifices that need to be made and the rules of those sacrifices. I know that there is a purpose to them, but at this point there is really no explanation. I know that at one point I did question the way sacrifices were done in the OT, but I if you listen to the wording of the way sacrifices are handled you notice that they are similar to the words used in the sacrifice of Jesus. So Jesus' sacrifice took the place of all of the different types of sacrifices that will be mentioned throughout Leviticus.

Psalm 57 reiterates God's steadfast love and faithfulness during times of struggle for David. He continues to praise God for those things knowing that he will protect him and get him through whatever difficult situation that he is going through. This is something that we should continue to remember as it should calm our spirits and help us to get through rough times.

Michelle 

I guess I am not very familiar with the wording from Jesus’ sacrifice as I don’t understand the correlation. The reading seems just very instructional but I don’t see the significance. Maybe once we get to they part it will make more sense. 

The psalm is prefaced with “when David had fled from Saul into the cave”.  I continue feeling the need to know the story so I can put this in the proper context. I’m sure we will read about David and Saul later.  It does read as praise and remembrance of what god has done for him and continued to do. 

Day 56 - Psalm 56

 Julie

Preparing to start Leviticus tomorrow and read some insights into this book. It is about the laws the God puts forth to the Israelites. We are asked to understand that not all of these pertain to the world today, but should be used as a basis of our understanding of what our moral compass is...I believe that is what it was saying.

Psalm 56 was called a lament, but was again praying for God's protection and guidance in trying circumstances, but knowing that God was there to protect and being thankful that he is.

Michelle

Agreed. It seems that the writer is turning to God in every situation. This is a good reminder that we should do the same. 

Day 55 - Psalm 55

 Julie

Not much that I feel I can say today. This seems to be a hymn praying for those that might hurt us. 

Michelle

So I am feeling this one. It spoke to me on so many levels. Maybe because I am going thru something and feel kind of like this or have at times in my life. At the beginning it says “My thoughts trouble me...because of what my enemy is saying...for they bring down suffering on me and assail me in anger.”  I have had experiences lately that mimic these words. Then vs 6-8, I have felt this way at times where I just wish I could fly away from the chaos and troubles to a place of rest. I can’t tell you how many times I think about this. Running away from it all. And then when I pray that God will strike down those against me. Which I know isn’t right. I don’t want to wish bad things on people but at the same time wish they would suffer as I am made to suffer. But then verse 21 hit me today. I feel this one today immensely. “His talk is smooth as butter, yet war is in his heart;  his words are more soothing than oil, yet they are drawn swords.” I have been writing this email to HR sharing some experiences I have had recently that I think need to be addressed. I have redone it multiple times and yesterday I finally felt like it was the best version without me sounding like a total victim but getting my points across. Then I read this and realized this is exactly how I feel. I have written to explain things all the while hoping that this person is dealt with more harshly than is necessary. War has definitely been in my heart and I know it. The swords are drawn in my words. And all I keep thinking is this is what you get for crossing me. So now I wait. Do I send it or not?  I am lost and don’t know which direction is right. And then I just reread vs 22. Cast your cares on the lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. I am trying to do this. I have prayed for direction and still can’t see which way to go. So what is this telling me?

Day 54 - Exodus 40 & Psalm 54

Julie

Today was further explanation of setting up the temple, and was extremely detailed. I am still not sure I understand why all of the detail of the dress and the tabernacle were necessary, but an explanation of this was to show the people that this was a place of God's presence. I understand that part, just not the necessity of the detail. I also wonder where the change happened for a lot of denominations in that they do not have elaborate churches or wear colorful robes as the Catholic church still does. 

Psalm 54 is asking for God's help with those who threaten the lives of those that are faithful to God. It seems to be somewhat of a pattern through most of the Psalms that we have read. 

Michelle 

I have wondered the same about the different churches. The other that seems to still follow a bit is the Methodist. I wonder if it’s something in new vs Old Testament. And again this first part could have been less wordy. I feel like I have skimmed these past few chapters as they are very detailed and are basically saying the same thing over and over. I’m not sure that is a good thing. 

The psalm does seem to be asking for Gods help against their foes. It is prefaced with “when the Ziphites had gone to Saul and said ‘is not David hiding among us?’”. Sometimes when I am reading this I want to more of the history that goes along with the Bible. What is going on with these people and what their stories are. Sometimes the pastor at church gives some more info about the time or the people that is not found in the Bible but is more about the environment and the times and situations they lived in during that time. It is actually quite helpful to me as I need more context I guess. I don’t know if that’s right or not as we are to believe and follow blindly it seems. But when I get more info it makes it easier for me to understand and acknowledge what I believe. 

Day 53 - Exodus 39 and Psalm 53

 Julie

Again, a reading of how they made the robes of those that would be in the tabernacle. The only thing that really stands out in the whole reading is that they did as God commanded. Is it really about seeing if they will do as they are told?

This Psalm was confusing, in that it is really about people not following God, but it talks as if all people are this way. I am unsure of the significance here...

Michelle 

It does seem as you say to be just about seeing if they will follow instructions. Because what is the need for all these ornate things. Is this where the word gaudy comes from?  Not sure why I thought that. It could also be because when they were waiting for Moses the first time they grumbled and needed something to “worship”, and while this isn’t meant to be worshipped it is giving people a place to worship. If that makes sense. And the people are now being blessed for complying.

The psalm does seem as you say. That basically everyone has turned away from God and don’t seek him. They are overwhelmed with dread when there is nothing to dread. They no one does good. But I just reread this and the first line says “The fool says in his heart there is no God”. So maybe these are the words of a fool who doesn’t know god or doesn’t try to know. 

Day 52 - Exodus 37 - 38 & Psalm 52

 Julie

Today's reading a bit difficult as it is was just instructions on the building of the ark. I am still not sure of the significance of the detail of this. Maybe somewhere there is some insight.

Psalm 52 is thanking God for his steadfast love and condemning those that do not believe. Condemn might be too strong of word, but can't think of another right now.

Michelle

Ok this really could have been summarized into just a few sentences.  I really don’t see the need to go over it in such great detail as we have already read the details multiple times. I did find it interesting that they recorded what was given by the people in order to make it. Like that was a great sacrifice to give all that over. I am still trying to understand the significance of all this though. 

The psalm is prefaced with “a maskil of David. When Doeg the Edomite had gone to Saul and told him: David has gone to the house of Ahimelek.” I don’t know what a maskil is but when I first read this it seems like he was chastising someone for their actions and words. I am relating to this one today as I have not had good thoughts or words toward someone recently and have been trying to decide how I should share my experience in a more positive manner. I do like the end as it says “...flourishing in the house of God; I trust in Gods unfailing love...And I will hope in your name...”. Knowing God’s love will help you flourish. 

Day 51 - Exodus 35 - 36 & Psalm 51

 Julie

Today was more information on building the tabernacle and how Moses went about doing that. There was also the directive of observing the Sabbath. It seems rather harsh that not observing lead to death and I am glad that is not the case anymore, but I do wonder when/how that changed. I also wonder the the real day of sabbath is. Is there a lot of back and forth and to whether it is Saturday or Sunday.

Today's Psalm seemed like a request for forgiveness of sin and salvation. The "singer" was confessing to God and asking to be saved. 

Michelle

I agree that seems a harsh punishment but then I thought about their past and thought maybe that’s what was needed for them to obey.  Some people have to learn the hard way and these early ones tend to be that way. I am still wondering the significance of all these specific instructions on setting up the tabernacle and why it seems we keep repeating the entire thing over and over.  

The psalm is prefaced with “a psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet had came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba”.  Which explains why he seems to be asking for forgiveness for his sins.  It also seems like he is looking for redemption as he says “I will teach transgressors your ways, so that sinners will turn back to you.”  I find this interesting as I’m sure I have ready that you are not forgiven or redeemed based on your works, or something like that.  But it seems even then that is what the thinking was.

Day 50 - Exodus 34 & Psalm 50

Michelle

This passage appears to be the renewal of the covenant and laws rewritten on new stone tablets.  It is yet another 40 days and nights that Moses is gone from the people and bringing back the same as before as everything is written again.  But for some reason this time Moses comes back down with a glowing face after speaking to God and the people have not turned away as before.  Now every time he comes back from conversing with God his face is glowing.  I am unsure of the significance of this. The book says he is radiating God's glory but that is not what I got from the reading.

The psalm sounds like they are being reprimanded by God.  The bible version on my phone prefaces this passage with "God as Judge".  It seems that people are being spoken to very harshly and then at the end it says those that remembers God in action and offering will be given salvation.

Julie

I don't think I can say much more than you did about the passages for today. What I got from the Psalm is that it's more of reminder that God is judge and not us. That is kind of how I took that. 

Day 49 - Exodus 32-33 and Psalm 49

 Julie

The people lose faith since Moses has been gone so long and they build and start and worshipping false idols. This angers both God and Moses, and Moses breaks the tables in anger. The people seem to understand that they did something wrong, but also make excuses for their wrongdoing. 

This Psalm is asking everyone to pay attention and reminds people that everyone has a common outcome.

 

Michelle

It's interesting how angry the Lord gets in the Old Testament.  It makes reference in this passage.  The people lose faith very quickly, which is relatable, but I am still surprised by how quickly.  We, as a people, are so prone to it if we aren't shown daily.  I can see how that is frustrating to the Lord.  But it still leaves questions about it.  And Aaron is supposed to be leading these people while Moses is away but he caves so easily.  This is especially surprising considering what they experienced when they left and made the journey to where they are now.  It's not every day that you see the sea parted so that you may cross it safely while running from your enemy.  That alone should have provided enough to sustain people, in my opinion.  I was also surprised when Moses tells the people that God wants them to go thru the camp killing their brother, friend, and neighbor.   And then tells them they committed a great sin and he must go make atonement for it.  He speaks of the gold idol, but what of the murder he instructed them to commit?  I find this a bit disturbing and don't understand it.

The psalm says to me that no matter your station in life it all ends the same and you can't take your riches with you when you die, we are all the same in the end.  It also says, God will redeem me from the realm of the dead, which makes me think that as long as I don't idolize or stand in awe of those who are in awe of themselves or flaunt their wealth, then God will take us to himself once  we are gone from this world.  The reminds me of the world today, which idolizes a lot of celebrity or the wealthy of the world.  Their focus is on the wrong thing and as long as that is the case they will die like everyone else not knowing the place of God or being drawn to him in the end.  But if you maintain your focus on God, you will have eternal life in his kingdom.

Day 48 - Exodus 30 - 31 and Psalm 48

 Julie

Today was the rest of God explaining how he wanted everything to be done and the specifications for everything. It ended with him giving the tablets to Moses, but it doesn't really say anymore about it than that. Still unsure of the significance of all of this.

This Psalm is celebrating Zion and recognizes what God has done for his people.

 

Michelle

Some of the things in this passage remind me of things from church when we were younger.   I still don't fully understand all the atonement offerings and the reasons behind them.  There are very harsh punishments for not following these rules.  Something that did stand out though was speaking about the Sabbath.   I understand the symbolism and the reasoning for allowing a day of remembrance and it being considered a Holy day, I wonder if in the time we are in, if it needs to be Sunday as we all think.  The punishment for not celebrating the Sabbath is death, which is severe.  In this time we live in and the ways of life now, Sunday may not be the best time to allow for this.  I know in some religions or cultures it's Saturday.  So does this mean we can celebrate this day any day of the week?  It says work 6 days and on the seventh rest, but doesn't specify which day that must be.  I wonder at what point in time we made it Sunday.   I remember vaguely, and possibly not accurately, that there was a third tablet that didn't make it down the mountain with Moses.  This could have been in a movie spoofing this story, but with all these instructions, it wouldn't surprise me if there were more.  It does specifically state he gave him the two tablets of the covenant law.  It appears that there were many more than 12 laws stated in previous readings.  But only 2 tablets with 12 laws came down with Moses.  

The psalm doesn't say much to me.  What I did get was that we need to remember so that we may tell the next generation of God's goodness and all he has done for us.  

Day 47 - Exodus 28 - 29 & Psalm 47

 Michelle

This passage appears to be more instruction given in regards to the priesthood and Aaron and his sons becoming the line of priest for God.  They are very detailed in how the robes are to be made and how they are to consecrate them.  I have been confused this whole time about the offerings.  They speak of burnt offerings and now wave offerings and I can't seem to understand these.  There have been times when they speak of atonement and that it's one of the reasons for offerings and are very specific on what to use for each and when to make these offerings.  But I am still perplexed by it.  Again maybe it's just a test to see if they will follow God's instruction.  Not sure.  I was also interested in where it says that the son's of Aaron will be the continued priesthood.  I wonder if there are priest's in current time that come from the line of Aaron.  

The psalm appears to be a song of praise to God.  I am still curious who is speaking in this psalm as it again says Sons of Korah. 

Julie

I am with you on this one, the confusion about the sacrifices and all of the instructions. However, looking forward, it is said that "the lamb of God, " Jesus, was the ultimate sacrifice and is what moved us from animal sacrifices in the OT. Maybe there will be some clarification as move to the end of the OT and into the NT. I am also perplexed by the limited discussion of the commandments. I know they were explained, but not much was said about the Moses receiving the tablets. More to come?

Day 46 - Exodus 26-27 & Psalm 46

 Julie

Today's reading was just more specifications on how to build the tabernacle. As with yesterday, I am not very sure of the significance other than to make sure that it is being done as requested/commanded...

The first two verses stood out to me in Psalm 46. "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be  moved into the heart of the sea...". I think that these are very telling verses that we should remember and focus on. They could be calming in times of turmoil.

 

Michelle

As I was reading today my first thought was that this is just instruction.  As I continued I thought, maybe they were being given a task for a reason.  The time it would take to complete these things in their time would have been significant.  It would also give them the need to work together.  But then I also though, at this point he is just giving Moses the instruction, and previously I believe it said he was up there talking to God for 40 days and nights.  Which is enough time for people to start asking questions about what is going on.  So it might also be a test of their faith and patience.  Or I could be reading into it things that aren't there.  I am not sure which it is.  

The psalm has a popular line in it, or well known anyway.  "Be still and know that I am God".  This kind of made me think back to the passage in that they needed to be still and patient and just listen and wait.  They have seen what God is capable of and what he will do for his chosen people, and now they must wait.  Wait for instruction, wait for deliverance, whatever it is just wait.  

 

Day 45 - Exodus 24.12 - 25.40 & Psalm 45

 Michelle. 

This passage is instruction for the items that are to be made for the worship place if I am reading this correctly.  It is very detailed in what they should use and what each pieces features should be. Although I don't understand the significance of it and why it is so important for them to be so ornate.  It does remind me of some of the things found in Catholic church when we were growing up.  The colors and items used, what the alter looked like, the robes the priest wears and things like that.  

The psalm is prefaced with "a wedding song", although I do not know who is marrying or what the purpose is.  It does speak of God's blessing and halfway thru speaks of a woman marrying a king and that she will be praised for generations.  I am not sure who they are speaking of.   

Julie

I'm not sure there is much more to say than what you already have. This passage was just very instructive and I imagine that is all we are supposed to see in it. The Bible I use shows pictures of the Ark and the candle holder and it is actually a menorah. It seems that many different religions have taken pieces of this and kept some of the OT items.

There really was no indication about who the wedding was for. It's fitting that it's a love song for today, of all days.

Day 44 - Exodus 24:1 - 11 and Psalm 44

 Julie

Today's eleven verses really just have Moses explaining the rules to the Israelites to show the God's covenant with them has been confirmed. 

Psalm 44 is a reminder that God stands with us through all things and to be grateful for the fact that he does.

 

Michelle

This was a very short passage.  Confused why.  It appears to be the confirmation of the covenant and they were given the opportunity to share in God's presence.  

The psalm feels like it is being said in anger.  At the end it is asking God to awake and return to aid them, as if they are going thru trials and feel abandoned.  Don't we all feel this way at times.  Thinking we have been abandoned, when really we are looking at it the wrong way.  I can't say that changes my perspective in the moment, but as we have said before, we are put thru things for a reason, a lesson or to make us stronger for other things that are to come in life.   

Day 43 - Exodus 21-23 and Pslam 43

 Julie

Today's reading listed specific laws being set forth and I had a lot of confusion and questions. There are some things in there that I understand would not really relate to the current time, but there are also quite a few that we really still adhere to today. I don't know that I was able to really give today's chapters the attention that they need and I would like to go back to them on the catch-up day and see if I can see something different or more. Hopefully one of you might have more insight than I do on this.

Psalm 43, according to the explanation, works in conjunction with yesterday's Psalm in dealing with enemies.

 

Michelle

I saw alot of our current laws and rules in today's readings.  Some are unrelated or I can see where some have had little change.  But it's interesting how much this is reflective in the laws we follow today.  There are definitely some that seem only related to the time in which they lived.  I was interested in the 3 festivals.  I can see how these are similar to some that are celebrated by some cultures, or how they relate to farm work as they are about harvest and giving your first fruits.  I am curious if they are related to any holidays we celebrate now that have been transformed into something else.  I did look up what the month of Aviv is as it spoke of it.  I found that it is March in an ecclesiastical calendar.   Although I don't know what the calendar looks like.  

The psalm appears to be a continuation of the previous one.  He is asking for vindication and troubled by his downcast soul still asking God to bring him out of it.

Day 42 - Exodus 19-20 and Psalm 42

 Julie

Today Moses was given the 10 commandments for the people of Israel. I am not sure that there is much to say about it other than by doing this Moses now has a set of laws to rule things by. Through time all of the laws of the world stem from these 10 commandments. I wonder sometimes if non-believers realize that some of their belief systems stem from the Bible.

Psalm 42 is a song of mourning for the desire to fellowship with the Lord. This person is wanting to and being kept from doing that, there is a longing for that connection throughout this Psalm. I know that I feel this way when I am not able to spend time in the word or attend church as I would like to.

 

Michelle

This passage starts by the people preparing themselves to receive the commandments from God thru Moses.  It appears they are being tested to follow directions prior to this though.  I don't think people in general realize that Julie.  But yes when you look at them this is where it all stems from.  Even the laws of our land come from things shown us in the bible, but most people don't know it.

The psalm is prefaced with "A maskil of the Sons of Korah", I do not know who these sons are.  But it seems as if he is talking to himself, telling himself to not be downcast, telling himself to turn to God in his time of need, almost like it's a fight within himself.  I have been in this state before and have had to remind myself where I should be looking. 

Day 41 - Exodus 17:8 - 18 and Psalm 41

 Julie

Today's reading points out how "policing" started, or at least that is what it looks like. Moses is judging people's wrongdoings in the eyes of God and it is overwhelming him. So he appoints men that trusts and know will follow the laws to help with judgements. In the way it is explained that is how it sounds as to where "policing" or trials began using the rules of the Bible.

Psalm 41 is a lament for those that are suffering and asking for God's help and healing throughout their situation. 

 

Michelle

Today's passage started with Moses holding up his hands so that Joshua could overtake the Amalekites.  I don't understand the significance of this passage.  The second part does sound like the beginning of the court system and having people who are faithful followers be the ones to lead the others. I don't remember Moses wife being sent away, but noticed that in the passage too.  His father in law advises him to start this process to lessen the burden placed on him.  

The psalm seems to be a prayer asking for God to heal them or relieve them of their situation.    

Day 40 - Exodus 15:22 - 17:7 and Psalm 40

 Julie

This is a very telling passage as it is the one where the Israelites start complaining and questioning why they left the comfort of Egypt where they had food for the wilderness where it is scarce. God hears their cries and provides, but tests them to see if they will have faith that he will provide. This is an area that I think everyone struggles with. We hold on to things and try to save things instead of using it all or letting it go and trusting that God will provide again. We do this with everything in our lives. It's hard to not try to prepare for hard times, but he shows that if we trust in him what we need will always be there when we need it, we just have to have faith and trust in Him.

Psalm 40 is thanking God for all he has done, but also asking for him with a difficult situation and allows others to see the goodness of God and rejoice. 

 

Michelle

This does appear to be a passage of faith and trust.  God's chosen people sure do seem to complain about everything and are never satisfied.  I am wondering if their cries are just grumbling or prayer?  It sounds like just grumbling, but later in the passage it says he hears their cries and comes to their aid.  But they continue to test him and don't trust that he will keep his word.  It does seem to be about maintaining the faith and trust and that no matter what goes on in life, we are to do these things.  Every situation is something we are to learn or to grow stronger.  

The psalm says in the beginning to share what the Lord has done for you.  Do not hide , but speak of faithfulness and share with those around you. 

Day 39 - Exodus 15: 1-21 and Psalm 39

 Julie

Today's reading is singing God's praises and thanking him for saving them and taking them out of Egypt. The words of this song should be a reminder  or something that we should consider singing/using to pray to thank God for the things that he does for us in our lives. We should SING HIS PRAISES!

Psalm 39 is interesting because it covers a lot of different things. Asking for help for control in complicated situations or with people that can really cause us to react in ways that we probably shouldn't. Asking for forgiveness for our sins and reminding us that life is short, this kind of sums it all up in that we should remember this and live the best version of ourselves that can. God is giving us that chance and it's how we choose to use that time that means something.

 

Michelle

Agreed.  This appears to be a passage of praise.  Explaining what happened and praising the Lord.

The psalm is interesting.  I was most moved by the beginning and then when it says What do I look for, my hope is in you.  Reminder to always keep hope and faith in the Lord no matter the situation. 

Day 37 & 38 - Exodus 12:1-20 & Psalm 37, Exodus 12:31-14 & Psalm 38

 Julie

Catching up for a couple of days. My OCD doesn't allow me to wait until the catch-up days. I have to be ready for tomorrow and I haven't spent time the word for a couple of days. In any case...the story of Moses parting the Red Sea is an important one and very convicting in that he was able to do that in order to save the Israelites. Is there a reason that the unleavened bread is so important? I ask because it is repeated so often between chapters 12-14. I know that the bread is unleavened because they are driven out before it can be leavened, but I don't understand why it was necessary to repeat it as often it was. I bring this up because if you are looking for words that are repeated...that is one. 

The first half of Psalm 37 is so telling and convicting as it reminds us of how we should be for God. It does return to the suppression by evil doers, but we are reminded here of who we need to be. 

 

Michelle

So I realized yesterday that we didn't even discuss this over the weekend.  And I didn't read either.  I was also confused as to why the leaven was so important, so I did a search and read a few things about it.  Most of which it is about having to leave in a hurry so they didn't have time to allow the bread to rise, or that it's a symbol of their leaving in haste anyway, as in the beginning of this chapter it seems there actually is time so it may just be that's a symbol.  As the article went on it talked of other areas of the bible where it's used as a metaphor for being puffed up with pride and how the unleavened are humbled, simple and pure.   

The parting of the Red Sea appears to be for both parties.  For the Israelites, it leads them to trust God and Moses, as they are now lead out of their slavery.  For the Egyptians, it appears it is meant to also show them the power of God vs the multiple gods they believe in, so as to make them see the one true God.  I am not sure how it worked after that as Pharaohs army was taken into the sea but maybe those remaining in Egypt would have been the ones that it was meant for.  

The psalms, so in reading these today, I am feeling these in my current situation.  In 37, I felt the call not to repay evil with evil, and in 38 I felt vs 17-22 very deeply.  "For I am about to fall and my pain is ever with me, I confess my iniquity...Many have become my enemies without cause...Those who repay my good with evil lodge accusations against me, though I seek only to do what is good...Lord, do not forsake me...Come quickly to help me...". This is my prayer. 

Day 36 - Exodus 10 - 11 & Psalm 36

 Julie

Today is really a continuation of what I talked about yesterday. The plagues are God's way of showing that He is the I Am  and giving the Israelites something to share with those that come after them. 

Psalm 36 this is another lament about the wicked and a prayer for God to protect. This seems to be a common theme in the Psalms. 

I kind of feel like I didn't put a lot of try hard into today, but it also seems that everything that I said yesterday really does apply to today and I don't know that it is necessary to repeat it. There really hasn't been a whole lot that stands out within the Psalms, but it seems that you could choose the one that speaks to you the most when dealing with those who are wicked and asking for protection.

 

Michelle

This does appear a continuation of yesterday's passage.  I'm not sure why this stands out but there's a part that say "Moses, hot with anger, left Pharaoh."  He has already known ahead what will happen as the Lord has told him yet he still angers at the reactions of Pharaoh.  

The psalm almost sounds like he his praying for the unbelieving and wicked people and their actions.  This is very hard to do.  Usually I think we pray for ourselves to get out of situations with these kind of people when we should actually be praying for them in some way.  I never know how to do that.  But continue to try.  

Day 35 - Exodus 6:28 - 9 and Psalm 35

 Julie

This begins that plagues that God brings down on the Egyptians. There are a couple of things that stand-out apart from the individual plagues themselves. The first is that at the beginning of chapter 7 God tell Moses that he is make him like God and Aaron will be his profit so that they can perform these acts that will bring upon the plague. I had read, I believe in the explanation of the book of Exodus within the version of the Bible that I am using, that Moses is basically the Jesus of the OT. The difference is that God gives Moses his "power" at a time of his choosing instead of bearing him as "son". Moses job is to help bring about the salvation of the Israelites and Jesus' is to bring out the salvation of us all. Looking at it from this prospective and how a lot of what is happening now gets repeated again in the NT, it goes to show that we tend to repeat or transgressions over time. 

The second thing that stands out is when God says He will harden Pharaoh's heart. I think that this is a very significant statement, and can be placed in the context of the world at any given time. Our current situation in the world would be an example of this. While it does get mentioned (I believe in the NT) that God places those in charge that he deems necessary at the time and they are not always godly people, this statement shows us that some of the hardships that we go through at the hands of those that govern us are brought upon us by God. I know that sometimes people look at the hardships that we have to endure as punishment for doing something wrong, but that is not always God's motive and if we really examine that here it shows. There is no where is what God is doing in hardening Pharaoh's heart where he has said that he is doing it because the Israelites have done wrong. However, it does show their faith in God that they endure with the hope that something better will be coming out the other side. They are trusting in his promise and covenant that he made. I think it's important to remember that while we may be experiencing hardship at the time that there is always a purpose and a plan that we may not understand and that we have to trust that joy will emerge.

Today's Psalm could really correlate with today's Exodus reading as it could be the type of prayer that one might pray to God if they were experiencing what the Israelites were experiencing at this time. Asking God to save them from the atrocities brought upon them by those in charge. This could be a good Psalm to assist in prayer with our current situation. 

 

Michelle

The devotional that pertains to this passage in my bible has a very powerful thought.  And I can see how this could be the situation of today and the time of the bible.  It may have been the same situation over time and it's not something I have thought about before.  It states, "Yes, God wanted to free the Israelites from years of cruel bondage.  But he wanted EVERYONE - Egyptians and Israelites - to experience his power as the one true God."  In this devotional it discusses how he used the plagues to challenge the belief of the Egyptians in their pagan gods.  Today God still wants everyone to know that he is the only true God and shows his power thru the events and circumstances of our lives.  This is very thought provoking to me.  But I can see how this makes sense.  When you are in the moment we are only looking to how we are being affected by whatever is going on, but it may be that God is trying to show others, non believers, who he is and where their loyalty and faith should lie.  

The psalm starts off sounding as if he is asking for his persecutors to be harmed.  Then it goes on to ask God for help in his situation and praising him for what he does and will do.   

Day 34 - Exodus 5 - 6:27 & Psalm 34

 Julie

Today talks about how Moses and Aaron go and ask the Pharaoh to let the people go out and worship God for a short time. Pharaoh refuses and gets and angry and makes things more difficult for the Israelites. This makes the Israelites angry at Moses for bringing this upon them. So Moses prays to God asking why he is causing them more suffering instead of helping them. If we put this story in the context of now then this is an example of God saying that he will do what he has promised, but never said how he would do it and in some cases there is some type of suffering that must be endured as part of the walk that God is putting one through. He reminds Moses to have faith and trust in him and to continue to fight for his people and for God and that all will be revealed in time. He also continuously reminds him of the "I Am" by stating multiple times "I am God". 

Psalm 34 is a prayer of thankfulness for all that God has done and it specifically points out ways in which God has taken care of David through this ordeal.

 

Michelle

That is a very good point Julie.  I didn't think of it in that way.  But you are right in that God never says how he will do things and many times suffering is the way it's done.  More times than not we expect God to just hand us what we want instead of knowing that we will have to work for it in some way.  This act is just one of the ways we are made stronger, in our faith and in ourselves.  I do also see that this is yet another example of us always arguing with God.  This is a recurring theme for humans.  We argue, why are you doing this to me/us, expecting it to come easy.  I guess it's just one more way we are meant to see that we must turn to God in all things and at all times.  

The psalm sounds like he is speaking to someone and telling them about God, saying that he will seek the Lord always and these are the reasons why everyone should.  It also prefaced this stating it was when David pretended to be insane to Abimelek, who drove him away and he left.  I'm not sure of that story but assume we will learn it eventually. 

Day 33 - Exodus 3-4 and Psalm 33

 Julie

"I Am". This is repeated a few times in todays passage. I know that this is talked about frequently and that there are probably many thoughts on this, but could this be that God is letting Moses know that he shouldn't have to or be questioning God and his power. While they seem so menial the words are so powerful. God uses this moment to give Moses the strength and power and that he needs to bring about the salvation of the people of Israel. Something I read (and I can't remember where) likened this time with Moses to what Jesus does in the NT. The only thing that struck me as odd and out of place was the circumcision of Moses' son. With where it was placed in the chapter I had to read it a few times and still wasn't quite sure of what was happening. I get that he hadn't circumcised his son yet, but there seems to be some indication that this made him an unlikely choice for the job at hand because of it, but wouldn't God have know that? 

Psalm 33 reminds us of the steadfast love of God. That no matter who we are and we what do he loves us unconditionally and that love should inspire us to want to be better people for God.

 

Michelle

So my feeling were up and down in this passage.  In the beginning he is arguing with God about being the right person for the job at hand, and God gets angry but then appeases Moses by having his brother assist him in communicating with the people.  He also prepares him with the knowledge that he will harden the heart of the Pharaoh against him.  Not sure why this happens, why would he do that intentionally?  And also he tells Moses to plunder the Egyptians.  This seems all wrong to me for some reason.  He is asking him to do something, that in my mind is not a good thing.  I was also confused about the circumcision as right before it states that the Lord met Moses on the way and was about to kill him when the wife performed the circumcision to save Moses.  I don't understand this at all.  If God was sending Moses there why was he about to kill him?  

I am starting to feel like the psalms are all the same.  Just giving praise to God and reminding us of his greatness and that we should give praise for all he does.

 

Day 32 - Exodus 1-2 & Psalm 32

 Julie

As we enter in this new book, it is said that we need to focus on the covenant God has made with Israel and his family. As we see in these first two chapters, we are reminded in words that God has continued to fulfill that covenant, as well as the Israelites (Hebrews) show their fear of God. Although they have been brought into slavery and the midwives are being told to kill the boys that are born (because Pharoah fears the Hebrews), their fear of God keeps them from doing as Pharaoh says. We are also getting into the beginning of Moses part of the story and we will watch unfold how God protects him.

Psalm 32 is called a "thanksgiving hymn" which makes sense it is thanking God for forgiving sins. It's a beautiful reminder that God forgives us and as such we should be just as forgiving. He loves us in spite of the things we do and accepts us as who we are, and we should remember to treat others in kind.

Jackie

Another book, a new beginning, as I read today's reading it reminded me that God is always with us.  Sometimes we are asked to do things because others say but we have to remember that if it does not go with what God says then we have to believe and trust that he is in control and will take care of us if we go against what others are saying.  

The Psalm reminds me that God forgive us of our sins, and sin of avoidance, running, hiding or just being just plain lazy in our faith.  He still loves us and will accept us even when we fault, and he will bring us back to his loving kindness continue to grow us.  

Michelle

So upon reading this passage, I came away with more questions.  The preface says it’s been 4 centuries and that the Israelites are laboring as slaves.  When we ended Genesis they had become slaves after the famine and selling themselves to the Pharaoh and Joseph for food. Now we start to find them oppressed.  I get that over time things have changed and the promises have faded from memory.  And now they are many and the newest Pharaoh isn’t a believer so he asks for terrible things to happen.  But when they cry out for help from God he is there.  

The psalm  is another that says call out to the lord and he will be there for you.  

So I read this passage again this morning and had a realization.  God seems to use sinners more than others to do his work.  As at the end of 2 it says Moses killed an Egyptian and hid him.  I guess that’s a reminder that God uses all kinds of people and that we are not perfect.