Daily Divine Design is original and unique. Daily Divine Design was developed over 50 years, initiated by a shy, studious Bible quiz teenager. He would later become a congregational leader in the prophetic end-time fulfillment of Messianic Judaism for all nations.
Kehilat Nahar Zerach River Rising Congregation offers the Daily Divine Design Devotional as both in-reach and out reach tools to encourage and equip emissaries for our Messiah Y’SHUA.
Shalom, Shalom ~
How to make effective use of the Daily Divine Design:
You, your family and friends are encouraged to read out loud the Sacred Scripture Scrolls. We strongly prefer the Complete Jewish Bible (CJB).
Following this unique systematic schedule in the Daily Divine Design you will complete the Bible in a year, every year! (You will hear Proverbs 12 times, Psalms 3 times, and complete the New Covenant and the First Covenant, at least once each.)
The Daily Divine Design encourages common community conversations which build life bridges in making disciples daily. Making disciples (redeemed, transformed followers in relationship with Messiah Y’SHUA) is first instructed by Avinu Malkeinu, our Father and our KING in D’varim (Deuteronomy) 6:4-9 CJB.
As your family listens to the Living Word, you and they will sense and experience an intimate drawing and growing to follow Messiah Y’SHUA.
HaShem’s Presence, not just His Hand of Provision, will empower you for Healing and Restoring. As a disciple of Messiah Y’SHUA you can fully expect to learn to represent His Power & Authority, as it is in Heaven, so on earth, for yourself and others.
When you enter the Sanctuary of The Presence of The Living Word daily, you are encouraged, early in the morning, to prepare your heart, head and hands with seven foundational and framing Scriptures before you begin. Scriptures for your learning and recitation are presented on the back page of Daily Divine Design, along with selected Hebraic Blessings.
Have questions? Need prayer for Healing & Restoring for any dimension of your life? Have a dream for which you need a GOD-Given interpretation? Hungry and thirsty for more of The Presence of GOD in Worship, Teaching and Fellowship? We are available as a trusted and wise resource in our relationship with Messiah Y’SHUA.
Please contact:
KEHILAT NAHAR ZERACH RIVER RISING CONGREGATION
541 Country Lane, Mount Vernon, Missouri USA 65712.1985
# 417.366.2428 ~ eukel@eukel.org ~ www.RiverRising.net
Today's (7 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 24-25; John 6; Psalms 89:1-18; Proverbs 7
It is "The Day After ...". In Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) the prophet is given a vision of baskets of figs, good and bad. Judgment is coming to Isra'el and to those who seek her ruin and waste. After seventy years, not before, the day after, Isra'el will be restored. The Restoration of GOD's People (both the natural and grafted-in branches of the Fig Tree) is not only physical, but also spiritual restoration.
Yochanan (John) records for us in today's systematic strategic out loud reading of Sacred Scripture Scrolls, two miracles.
First, feeding 5,000 men (plus women, children, conservative estimate 15-25,000) with a boy's lunch - Five barley bread loaves and two fish. After the feeding, so that nothing gets wasted, twelve baskets were filled with the pieces of barley loaves.
The second miracle happens during the dark of night on Lake Kinneret (Lake Tiberias). Y'SHUA walks on the water [when He boards the boat with his talmidim (disciples), instantly the boat reached the land they were heading for]! The day after the feeding of barley loaves and fish, the crowd discover that Y'SHUA and His disciples are not on this far side of the lake and one boat is missing. Many board boats and cross over to K'far-Nachum in search of Y'SHUA.
Y'SHUA understands the crowd followers are looking for more and regular daily bread to eat, much like the manna in the desert that lasted 40 years. Yet The Bread of Life from Heaven is Present before them. The enigmatic challenge Messiah Y'SHUA presents is, "... the bread that I will give is My own Flesh ... unless you eat the Flesh of the Son of Man and drink His Blood ... whoever eats My Flesh and drinks My Blood lives in me, and I live in him." (JN 6:51-57 CJB)
If, the day after, you and I are looking for a physical bread of life in political election outcomes, it will never be fully satisfying. The basket of figs is both good and bad. However, as life-time daily followers of Messiah Y'SHUA, we can be in His Presence and daily experience the supernatural naturally!
It is the day after. You are Lovingly invited to digest the Word of Life. Follow faithfully the systematic strategic schedule offered to you through theDaily Divine Design. Walking-on-the-Water-Bread is an Eternal Promise to sustain and satisfy you and your family now, and the day after.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, You sustain and satisfy us in all circumstances so that even the day after you comfort us with Your Presence. Let my heart, head and hands offer daily nourishing bread. And through Your Word may I hear Your Supernatural Wisdom to offer nurturing Spiritual Bread, today and the day after.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (8 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 26-27; John 7; Psalms 89:19-37; Proverbs 8
“You’re Fired!” The day after the 2018 midterm elections POTUS Trump had White House chief of staff, General (ret.) John Kelley call the United States Attorney General Jeff Sessions to request his resignation.
Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) the prophet is to be killed, an ultimate firing. Jeremiah would not recuse himself from doom & gloom prophecy: ‘This house shall become like Shiloh,’ and ‘This city will become uninhabited ruins.’ Governing officials, cohanim (Jewish priests) and the people wanted ADONAI’s prophet to proclaim peace and prosperity. Without true repentance from apostacy, however, the impending invasion of N’vukhadnetzar, Bavel’s king would not be recalled.
Yochanan (John) records the head cohanim and P’rushim sent guards to arrest Y’SHUA in order to kill him. The trumped-up charge? Y’SHUA violated the Sabbath by making a man’s whole body well on Shabbat and He claimed to be sent from The One GOD. The eternal reality? Our Messiah Y’SHUA offers Rivers of Living Water to all who put their trust in Him. Keep coming and drinking!
Tehillim (Psalms) teaches us ADONAI’s Faithfulness and Grace will be with us. We may abandon GOD’s Torah and fail to live by His Rulings, profane His Regulations, and not obey His Mitzvot. Our disobedience, justly, will be punished. Yet ADONAI Promises, “I won’t withdraw My Grace or be false to My Faithfulness.”
Mishlei (Proverbs) personifies Wisdom, Who is calling and raising her Voice. Wisdom concludes, “How happy the person who listens to Me, who watches daily at My Gates and waits outside My Doors. For he who finds Me finds Life and obtains the Favor of ADONAI.” Missing Wisdom is harmful, ultimately like an eternal, “You’re Fired!”
Perhaps harsh realities, “You’re Fired!,” are not the result of your own hard heart abandoning ADONAI’s Way. You are retired and simply stumbled in the shop. The fall left a visible bruise and gash and not so hidden soreness. Our Messiah Y’SHUA offers whole body healing, not limited by Shabbat’s timing. The foreign invasion of fear is fenced in by Faith in ADONAI’s Faithful Fortress. Watch daily at His Gates of Wisdom for Life, Light and Love. Even “You’re Fired!,” is overcome in GOD’s Favor.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, when I experience harsh realities, like you’re fired, let my heart, head and hands turn to You, my Rock and my Salvation. The faith, courage and wisdom to stay on the course You set for me, I can trust for You are Life, Light and Love favoring me. Fear will not fence me in. When I willfully fail to observe Your Will, Way and Word may I be quick to repent and turn from my sin, returning to You.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (9 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 28-29; John 8; Psalms 89:38-52; Proverbs 9
“Preying Prophet vs Praying Prophet” contrasts men who speak on behalf of ADONAI in Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah). A prophet says peace in two years the other prophet says seventy years of exile is certain. Whose word is a Word of ADONAI?
Yochanan (John) captures the conflict of whose law rules—Moshe’s about a woman caught in the very act of adultery to be stoned to death, or Y’SHUA’s teaching, “The one of you who is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her”? Which Word prevails—judgment governs or justice in grace?
Tehillim (Psalms) contradicts the faithfulness to King Dav’id. Foes have left his crown in the dust and left his strongholds in ruins. The pitiful cry is, “How long, ADONAI? Will You hide Yourself forever?” … “Where, ADONAI, are the acts of Grace You once did?”
Mishlei (Proverbs) calls to the unsure and weak-willed among us whose lack of thinking, rightly, is trapped by coarse ways that lead to the depths of death. Wisdom provides a seven-pillar house of understanding that grows wiser and learns righteousness more. “The fear (respect, reverence) of ADONAI is the beginning of Wisdom, and knowledge of The Holy One is understanding.”
Three days after the U.S. elections analysis of what happened, why and where do we go from here are being offered. Pundits do a deeper dive into the possible conflicting paths by the limited “wins” of the two major political parties. Whose contrarian voice do we hear?
The prophets of peace (Hananyah and Sh’ma’yah) seem to have a powerful constituency. Might is right, right? The iron enslavement yoke, coupled to seventy years of exile is the harsh prophecy of Jeremiah . Where is GOD’s Great Grace in that Word of ADONAI?
The muddled middle of media that attempts to be “fair and balanced” about Truth, as if GOD’s Wisdom was positioned neither on the left or the right, but miraculously centered in-between, is foolish thinking. Your daily habit of systematically and strategically reading out loud GOD’s Word is your Or HaOlam Light of the world. We do not need to remain unsure because of contrasting prophetic words, or a conflict trap between judgment and grace, or the seeming hiddenness of GOD’s Faithfulness or even a siren call for coarse ways of immediate gratification. The short summation of The Central Command of Sacred Scripture Scrolls is: Love GOD. Love others. On purpose.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, You are Or HaOlam The Light of the world. Yes, it seems that many sides of “truth” are made available, some “truths” more attractive than others. Let the foundation of my house be Your Seven Pillars of Wisdom. Though it may seem Your Grace delays, empower my spirit with Your Spirit to discern and seek justice and grace for others trapped by sin’s enslavement. When I speak prophetic words that You give, may it clearly be received as Your Truth.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (10 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 30; John 9; Psalms 90; Proverbs 10
The six “r”-words in Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) 30, profoundly point to prophetic redemptive words: Reverse, Return (3x), Rest, Restore, Rebuilt, Ruler.
ADONAI promises to reverse the exile of His people Isra’el and Y’hudah. HaShem will cause us to return to the Land of our ancestors; return us from far away countries of exile; and return Ya’akov’s captive exiles to their tents. The Mighty One will establish quiet and rest with no one to make us afraid. El Rapha (GOD our Healer) will restore our health and heal our wounds. Dwellings and cities will be rebuilt on our own tels (hills) with palaces. GOD’s people will have, not a foreigner, but one of their own, one among us, as Ruler.
Yochanan (John) records restoration by the Light of the world. A man born blind from birth washes off mud and sees on the Sabbath. The cause of birth blindness is not the darkness of sin by him or his parents. Messiah Y’SHUA’s miracle [9:32 In all of history no one has ever heard of someone’s opening the eyes of a man born blind] is coupled to return (t’shuvah). The healed seeing man declares, “LORD, I trust,” and kneels down in front of his Redeemer KING, the Son of Man.
Tehillim (Psalms) 90 is known as “a prayer of Moshe the man of GOD.” HaShem’s Majesty is juxtaposed from GOD’s Viewpoint of a thousand years is merely like yesterday or a night watch, to the frailty of man’s seventy years, or if he is strong, eighty. Moshe’s heart, head and hands wants the Favor of ADONAI our GOD to be on us. He prays, “… prosper for us all the works that we do—yes, prosper the work that we do.” The double request is a redemptive rebuilding physically and spiritually.
Mishlei (Proverbs) 10, credited “of Shlomo” (Solomon), confirms the righteous are Blessed, even their memory! The disparity between the undisciplined, crooked, foolish son and the wise, diligent sensible son is seen in the Hebrew parallel poetic thirty-two lines.
“The Way of ADONAI is a Stronghold to the upright but ruin to those who do evil.”
Relevant in Yochanan, the religious rulers object to man-made protocols and dogma being contravened. The man born blind would have remained in darkness if the “Sabbath Breaker” had not in Mercy, Wisdom and Love shown the Favor of ADONAI. A momentous moment for the Blessed Believer to embrace is Divine Healing as a Merciful Grace Gift to those still blinded by foolish self-pursuits; in other words, pre-Redemption. Restorative miracles lead to Redemption and follow. It is both-and; not moored in membership to a religious club or rules.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, humble my heart, head and hands to return to Your Rule, not my man-made traditions that prevent Mercy and Healing. ‘Open my eyes so that I will see Wonders from Your Word.’
Amein and Amein.
Today's (11 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 31; John 10; Psalms 91; Proverbs 11
The larger-than-usual crowd was likely due to the featured speaker, a national well-known gifted and trusted man of GOD. Somewhere to the speaker’s left, in a middle section, middle of a row was a quiet, somewhat shy and insecure 15 year-old boy. “Come up here, young man,” as he pointed in my general direction. “Yes, you, in the middle of the row, come up here.” I don’t recall rushing to get around knees while trying not to step on people’s feet. Finally, I made it to the open aisle. “Come up here, young man. GOD has a Word for you!” I remember one phrase and did not know it was part of a verse in Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) spoken from the Heart of HaShem to the heart of a son of Isra’el: “I Love you with an Everlasting Love” [31:2(3)]. I have never forgotten the words or the feeling of a deep washed-over-my-spirit with liquid Love, Words that were timely spoken to an, unbeknownst to him, Jewish boy that aspired to be called-out, unique from a muddled middle living.
Yochanan (John) often refers to “the one whom Y’SHUA loved.” Tradition calls this follower of Y’SHUA, “Yochanan (John) the beloved.” Thrice today you heard Y’SHUA identify Himself as “The Good Shepherd” Who lays down His Life on behalf of the sheep. What Great Love! What Everlasting Love! Messiah Y’SHUA came that you and I, Believers, may have Life, Life in its fullest measure. Some sheep are known to aimlessly wander, caught by the twinkle of adventures outside the pastures seeking a false fullness. Wolves and other animals of prey look for that stray sheep. The enemy of our soul comes to destroy. “He who searches for evil—it comes to him.” Proverbs 11:27b
Tehillim (Psalms) 91 is a well-known comfort-in-times-of-trouble. “My GOD, in Whom I trust! - He will rescue you from the trap of the hunter.” ’Elyon, Who is our Refuge and Dwelling Place, says to His people, “Because he loves Me, I will rescue him; because he knows My Name, I will protect him.” Our intimacy with ADONAI, The Most High will satisfy with long life and we will be shown HaShem’s Salvation. Our place in ADONAI is not a security shelter for the battered, backward or bitter. Calev, at 80, expected to overcome the fortified hills of Hevron for his families inheritance in the Land of Promise. He was wise enough to incentivize with his daughter’s heart in marriage a younger man to capture the future first capital city of King Dav’id. The lyric video song by Matthew West, “All In” captures our bold pursuits. Follow the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RwDpnKIvUI
Mishlei (Proverbs) continues a theme of Everlasting Life and Love: “The fruit of the righteous is a Tree of Life, and he who is wise wins souls.” The Good Shepherd knows His sheep and we know His Voice. Do you hear Abba? “I Love you with an Everlasting Love” Gifted musical artists have called to our hearts, heads and hands in worship. “Come Dance With Me!” Our desire of intimacy with our Heavenly Father is by Divine Design.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, Your Eternal Love is an overwhelming River to me. Let me wade in, no, come deep into the center of intimacy where I can’t swim and You, Loving Father, are in control of the overflow of my heart, head and hands. Let Your River flow on earth as it is in Heaven.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (12 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 32; John 11; Psalms 92-93; Proverbs 12
“I AM The Resurrection and The Life” … are the words [Yochanan (John) 11:25] our Messiah Y’SHUA spoke to the sisters Miryam and Marta of El’azar. Their brother was dead, in a cave tomb with a stone closure, for four days. GOD’s Faithfulness would wake up El’azar, whom Y’SHUA loved, from his “sleep.”
Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah), the prophet, is imprisoned because he spoke the Word of ADONAI: Jerusalem will be handed over to the Kasdim’s king of Bavel, N’vukhadretzar, through sword, famine and plague. The city will be burned down, including houses whose roofs were used in ba’al offerings. The annihilation is the aftermath of apostacy. Jeremiah, while imprisoned, is impressed with another Word: Buy the field (at ‘Anatot in the territory of Binyamin) for money, and call witnesses; even as the city is being turned over to the Kasdim.”
“Is there anything too hard for Me?” asks ADONAI. Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) 32:27b
Tehillim (Psalms) 92 is a song for Shabbat. We sing praises to ’Elyon. We tell in the morning about Your Grace and at night about Your Faithfulness. Before it happens, in the morning, we proclaim assurance in GOD’s Resurrection Life. After the dark valley adventures, at night, our melody with musical instruments, affirms HaShem’s Faithfulness! Psalm 93 insists that ADONAI is High and Mighty over nature’s crashing rushing waters. HaShem’s Instructions are very sure.
Mishlei (Proverbs) wisdom gives hope in the simple parallel line, “Once the wicked are down, it’s the end of them; but the house of the upright endures.” Yes, bad things happen to bad people. And, in the midst of annihilation or death’s dark dungeon, the Righteous by Faith will have Life that survives and thrives! “No [lasting] harm can come to the righteous, but the wicked are overwhelmed with disaster.”
At the risk of being out-of-step with short-term news cycles in the future, today’s news is a backdrop for Daily Divine Design. Do you have eyes to see and ears to hear the application? Ballot irregularities in Florida, Georgia and Arizona are still affecting gubernatorial and U.S. Senate elections six days after the General. Northern and southern California have 83,000 acres ablaze with hot fires pushed by high winds. Eighty have been killed in the firestorm. At the 100-year commemoration of the “war to end all wars” - WWI, France’s head of state publicly disrespect’s POTUS Trump’s, “I am a ’nationalist’,” statement as unpatriotic. Isra’el is defending against rockets, riots and rapid terrorists, again, today.
“Is there anything too hard for Me?” asks ADONAI. “I AM The Resurrection and The Life.”
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, I admit what You already know. The dangers surrounding my heart, head and hands overwhelm me. Even though I want to do right because You Love me, I find myself living less, rather than large. My hope is in You, my LORD and Redeemer. Help my little Faith grow in Trusting You. Resurrect me to Your Life.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (13 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 33-34; John 12-13; Psalms 94; Proverbs 13
“A second time...” the prophetic Words came to Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) while still imprisoned. Jerusalem’s houses and palaces are about to be destroyed used as siege-works and ramparts. The Kasdim army will be the instrument ADONAI uses to strike down wickedness in Isra’el and Y’hudah. A second time, “however,” is spoken. Health and healing, revelation of peace and truth will be returned. ADONAI promises cleansing from sin, a pardon. Redemption will result in joy, praise and glory when the nations hear the good news and joyful peace ADONAI secures. The voices of a future, from bridegrooms and brides will sing, “Give thanks to ADONAI-Tzva’ot … His Grace continues forever.” The redeemed, returned, will bring Offerings of Thanksgiving into the House of ADONAI.
If you can hear it, Messiah Y’SHUA’s Words and Deeds are a second time, spoken before in Words that came to prophets of GOD to be fulfilled. Yochanan (John) captures such a prophetic fulfillment, “Blessed is he who comes in the Name of ADONAI” at John 12:13 first declared from Psalm 118:26. One of the important prophetic fulfillments is Messiah Y’SHUA’s unpacking Y’hudah of K’riot’s betrayal as words of the TaNaKh to be fulfilled, “The one eating My Bread has turned against Me.” John 13:18-19 from Psalm 41:10(9).
Tehillim (Psalms) 94 also has a “once again” hope: “For ADONAI will not desert His people, He will not abandon His heritage. Justice will once again become righteous, and all the upright in heart will follow it.” 94:14-15 It may appear that the wicked triumph far too long, yet the GOD of vengeance will appear. Messiah Y’SHUA first came as Redeemer, the Sacrifice Lamb of GOD. He is coming a second time as the Roaring Lion of Y’hudah to Rule and Reign His Kingdom without end!
Mishlei (Proverbs) cautions those who scoff at prophetic words and too easily dismiss them as ancient rantings. “The teaching of a wise man is a fountain of life, enabling one to avoid deadly traps.” v14 It is clear in the Scroll of Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah), those whose disbelief dismissed the gloom and doom of Jeremiah’s words, that lead to repentance, redemption and restoration had the power to imprison GOD’s man — for a season. Just as clear we will soon read about those who believed the hard and heavy prophetic word, will avoid the traps of death and destruction, yet losing self-rule — for a season.
When HaShem’s Word is a second time, we learn to embrace the prophetic nature of that Word to be fulfilled, and also see GOD’s Great Grace elucidated toward us—a second time!
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, it seems the season of our days are filled with secrets of the prophetic end-times; some doom and gloom, others raging revival. Remind me, “Every Word of GOD is Pure; You Shield those taking Refuge in ADONAI. Don’t add anything to His Words, or He will rebuke you, and you be found a liar.” [Proverbs 30:5-6]
Amein and Amein.
Today's (14 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 35-36; John 14; Psalms 95-96; Proverbs 14
Who are Rekhavim (Rechabites) Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) uses to contrast observed fidelity to an ancestors order but not listen & obey to The Ancient of Days? [35:2-19] (For references in Scripture to this clan see Judges 4:11-22; 2 Kings 10:15-28; Nehemiah 3:14; and 1 Chronicles 2:55) The Rekhavim clan is important. The GOD of Isra’el, says: “Because you have heeded the order of Yonadav your ancestor, observed all his commands and done what he ordered you to do; therefore … Yonadav the son of Rekhav will never lack a descendant to stand before Me.” [35:18-19] An unconditional covenant? How do you explain a pre-New Testament Kingdom inclusion? Rabbinic literature traces Rekhavim to the father-in-law of Moshe, to a companion of King Jehu who orders the slaughter of ba’al prophets, and to builders of a portion of the re-built wall of Jerusalem. The literature also says they became scribes for the Sanhedrin in fulfillment of “standing before HaShem.” Some trace Rechabites to Jews of China.
Yochanan (John) records two sayings of Messiah Y’SHUA that indicates a fidelity to be observed: “I AM the Way—and the Truth and the Life; no one comes to the Father except through Me.” [14:6] “If you love Me, you will keep My Commandments.” [14:15] Understanding that GOD is One (Deuteronomy 6:4-9 The Sh’ma) our Redemption through Messiah Y’SHUA is the same Redemption through GOD. Additionally, the Commandments of Messiah Y’SHUA to Love Him are the same Commandments we observe to Love GOD. The fidelity of observing the Commandments does not merit our Redemption. The fidelity of observing is the life-long-learning outgrowth of our Redemptive Relationship with One GOD. It is Faith/Trust with Works. Not Trust to the exclusion of Works. Nor is “salvation” only at the cross but never before. Explain the Everlasting Covenant was not “everlasting” to the Rechabites? Or to Enoch, Noah, Avraham, King David, Elijah, Rahab (not related to the Rechabites) and the “Old Testament” Hall of Faith Heroes detailed in Hebrews 11?
Tehillim (Psalms) 95 and 96 read together, calls you and I to “shout for Joy to The Rock of our Salvation!” It is instructive as part of our giving ADONAI the Glory due to His Name that we bring an offering. Rabbi, now you have downgraded the devotional commentary by alluding to taking up money. Perhaps you have downplayed the observation of fidelity to entering His Courtyard by your empty hands. ADONAI does not need your money. You faithfully give GOD His Due, no excuses, no delays, no false control, otherwise, how do you reflect HaShem’s Glory and Strength?
Mishlei (Proverbs) wisdom contrasts clean stalls with no oxen (plural) with much production from the strength of an ox (singular). Observing GOD’s Loving Commands with fidelity is to be our hallmark as Messiah’s followers. Not doing so may appear “clean” but lacks the fruit of your faithful labors of love toward HaShem. Amein?
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, may our fidelity to Your Word and Way be wholehearted, a representation of Your Glory.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (15 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 37-38; John 15; Psalms 97; Proverbs 15
Messengers, sons of prominent men among King Tzidkiyahu’s court, deliver on behalf of the king a request to the prophet Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah), “Please pray to ADONAI our GOD for us.” One of those messengers, Y’hukhal [השם], is perhaps an early rendition of my modern family name, Eukel (see Proverbs 30:1 for another rendition, Ukhal; Hebrew has no vowels. Pronunciation of either name’s ending could also be ‘el, a common convention to a Hebrew name putting GOD’s Name in the person’s name, as in ‘Elhoyim or abbreviated ‘El). This, plus an imaginary dime’s cost of a cup of coffee at home, might warrant a cordial conversation among friends. You were looking for more? Keep reading.
“I AM The Vine and you are the Branches.” Yochanan (John)15:5 names you and I in a continual redemptive relationship with Messiah Y’SHUA. You may have a prominent family heritage, direct or indirect, that is a point of pride. Greater, however, is your spiritual life in Messiah Y’SHUA’s Kingdom that allows you naturally “supernaturally” to bear much godly fruit. Furthermore, Messiah Y’SHUA confirms, “If you remain united with Me, and My Words with you, then ask whatever you want, and it will happen for you.” Y’SHUA’s illegitimate night arrest on the Mount of Olives at a place called Gat-Sh’manim could have been prevented. Not by Kefa’s (Peter’s) aberrant sword skills. Y’SHUA simply needed to ask His Father and would have instantly been provided a dozen legion of angels [a Roman legion was 5,000 men, thus 60,000, not 10,000 angels of a popular Christian song. According to Paul Lee Tan, the songwriter, Ray Overholt wrote the famous song, He Could Have Called Ten Thousand Angels. Ray’s own song led Ray to accept Messiah Y’SHUA as LORD and Savior!)]. However, and here is the important take away, the Words must align, be united with, HaShem’s Will. Your want is to be united with Messiah Y’SHUA’s Want! Anything spoken outside His Will & Way is as aberrant as Kefa’s sword. Incantations, however sincerely named & claimed, are not a part of the Branch connected to the Family Vine and are, therefore, of limited merit in The Kingdom.
Tehillim (Psalms) 97 clearly names Who is KING and Who Rules and Reigns. The Name ADONAI is repeated seven times. HaShem’s identity is expressed not just in One Name but in many. ADONAI reveals His relationship to His people as LORD. There is no other. HaShem’s Holy Personal Name (reading from right to left Heh-Vav-Heh-Yud יהוה <=) is never spoken, in reverence to ADONAI’s Gimel (3rd)Commandment [Sh’mot (Exodus) 20:7].
“The tongue of the wise presents knowledge well,” v2 of today’s Mishlei (Proverbs). “The mind of the righteous thinks before speaking.” (v28) “The discipline of wisdom is fear of ADONAI, so before being honored, a person must be humble.” (v33) Such Wisdoms are the fruit of being in The Vine, continually carrying the Family Name representing our Master Messiah Y’SHUA. Are you recognizable as resembling our Redeemer?
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, may we be faithfully named as messengers of Your Kingdom here on earth, as it is in Heaven. May we be united, heart, head and hands with You, not wielding weapons of words or ways inconsistent with Your Reign.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (16 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 39:1-40:6; John 16; Psalms 98-99; Proverbs 16
The Word of ADONAI decreed to Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) disaster to take place. The siege took 18 months. The invading Kasdim army knew they were the instrument of GOD to punish Isra’el’s sins. The king of Bavel slaughtered all the leading men of Y’hudah, slaughtered the sons of Tzidkiyahu, put out the eyes of the king of Y’hudah, burned down the royal palace, the people’s houses and broke down the walls of Yerushalayim. “Left behind,” were some poor people, who had nothing. Jeremiah, the prophet of pandemonium, was also left behind. Yet, the Word of ADONAI had not left. In the midst of Divinely decreed disaster, ADONAI said to the Ethiopian, ’Eved-Melekh (whose name means servant of the king), “because you have put your trust in Me, I will keep you safe!”
Our Messiah Y’SHUA tells His followers in Yochanan (John) the near and far future. GOD does not want us left behind in surprise. “In the world, you have tsuris (trouble). But be brave! I have conquered the world!” Tsuris, such as, shut out of synagogue, exterminate you as if they serve GOD, scattered, even leaving Messiah. “But your grief will turn to joy.” During the period of grief for my older brother, David Dean ע״ה , killed in Vietnam, GOD’s Comforting Spirit gave me a strange word from The Word. I could not leave behind the Overwhelming Peace of an enigmatic verse in John 16:21. I thought, how does this pregnancy word relate to me? When my parents, Donald Dean ע״ה and Patricia Gloria Faye ע״ה, called from New Orleans to tell me the heart-breaking news, I was an 18-year old sophomore in L.I.F.E. Bible College (Los Angeles, CA). Ema (Mother in Hebrew אמא) had other news, too. Before Ema spoke the ‘other news’ Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) reminded me of the weird verse given to fill me with Shalom (Peace), a prophetic word for the near future. “Mom, you are pregnant and will have a son!” My youngest brother, Donald Dean, Jr., at his birth, my sorrow and suffering was supernaturally removed.
Tehillim (Psalms) 98-99 are new vibrant songs to ADONAI. “ADONAI has made known His Victory; revealed His vindication in full view of the nations, remembered His Grace and Faithfulness to the House of Isra’el. All the ends of the earth have seen the Victory of our GOD.” Then all of GOD’s created break forth singing joy and praise—nothing and no one is left behind in the melodious music! ADONAI is KING of kings and LORD of lords.
Mishlei (Proverbs) wisely instructs you and I, “If you entrust all you do to ADONAI, your plans will achieve success.” Further wisdom is offered: “A person may plan his path, but ADONAI directs his steps.” That is not a contradiction about free will being left behind, but rather complimentary wisdom. Entrust all, your success path then is directed in and by HaShem’s Wisdom.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING. Even a foreigner as servant to a wayward king is not left behind. Periods of great family sorrow are still pregnant with joyful hope. HaShem, You have filled my heart and mouth with singing songs of praise to You, my Redeemer and Restorer. Enemies may seem to surround me and attempt to block GOD-given plans, but I am not left behind from Your Wisdom and Path of Success. I Trust You, alone and join the chorus of praise.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (17 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 40:7-43:13; John 17; Psalms 100-101; Proverbs 17
The Wisdom Writings of Mishlei (Proverbs) values explicitly both the older and the younger. “Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, while the glory of children is their ancestors.” v6 A crown placed by hands on top of the head is positioned as a place of heart pride. Children’s glory is birthed in faith-filled and faithful grandparents filling descendants with the Path of Righteousness. “A knowledgeable person controls his tongue; a discerning person controls his temper.” v27
Tehillim (Psalms) 100-101 instructs generational enduring values. “For ADONAI is Good, His Grace continues forever, and His Faithfulness lasts through all generations.” 100:5 “I look to the faithful of the Land, so that they can be my companions; those who live lives of integrity can be servants of mine.” 101:6 Many of us are able to share with others the faithful wisdom we learned from our parents or grandparents. Pithy points to ponder, in persons or parables are valued. Even more so when we anchor that Ancient Wisdom in GOD’s Faithful Word reflected in the legacy of our Biblical Faith Family.
Yochanan (John) 17 is the Prayer for Disciples our Messiah Y’SHUA prayed — for all generations of His Followers. “I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those You have given to Me, because they are Yours.” v9 What was the enduring value Messiah Y’SHUA prayed for His disciples? Oneness, unity, set apart for Holiness by means of the Truth, protection from the evil one, that the Love with which HaShem Loves may be in them. Clearly, those values reflect a Golden Crown of GOD’s Glory. Honestly, I admit, that is not as clear in my mirror reflecting the spiritual values of Love and Unity in me or my family.
Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) records the prayer request of the remnant, intending to go down to Egypt. “Pray that ADONAI your GOD will tell us what direction to take and what to do.” 42:3 “Ten days later the Word of ADONAI came to” the prophet of GOD. 42:7 What was the direction to take? Stay in the Land. ADONAI will build you up, plant you, be with you to save you and to rescue you. What did the prophet discern the remnant would do? “You have not heeded any part of what ADONAI your GOD gave me to tell you.” 42:21 Unity in direction or duty was not the remnant’s intention, before the prayer request. It would impact descendants, and not for a crown or glory.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING. We see in Your Word that generational Blessings is Your Prayer for us, Your followers. The identity markers are Love and Unity. Grant us Wisdom to surround ourselves and therefore our children’s children with Faith-filled Faithful Family. Daily as we seek Divine Direction and Duty, strengthen our hearts, heads and hands to not intend duplicity. May we be planted as Your Redeemed remnant.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (18 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 44; John 18:1-18; Psalms 102; Proverbs 18
“For Your servants love her [Tziyon] very stones; they take pity even on her [Tziyon] dust.” v15(14) is in the middle of Tehillim (Psalms) 102. What are we to learn from the stones and dust of Tziyon loved by the servants of HaShem? The 29 verses of this prayer psalm is of a sufferer overcome by weakness and pouring out his complaint before ADONAI. Before the half-way point, we hear a focus shift, “But You, ADONAI, are enthroned forever…” v13(12) The shift is to the Foundations laid by ADONAI. Examine the stones and dust.
Yochanan (John) narrates the betrayal by Y’hudah (the one meant for destruction, so that the TaNaKh might be fulfilled John 17:12). Seeking to arrest Y’SHUA of Natzeret, Jewish temple guards dispatched by the head cohanim and the P’rushim along with a detachment of Roman soldiers enter the spot where there was a grove of trees, Mount of Olives (parallel passages: Matthew 26:30; Mark 14:26; Luke 22:39; John 18:1). Y’SHUA, identified Himself with the Foundational Stone statement: “I AM.” The same Foundational Stone HaShem used with Moshe (Exodus 3:14). The arresting mob fell back to the ground [dust]. Y’SHUA’s Eternal Holy Name is in the Heavenly Language, Hebrew (reading from right to left: Heh-Yud-Heh-Alef <=). The Foundation Stone is the Name and Nature of ’Ehyeh.
Four verses in Mishlei (Proverbs) compliment the emphasis of stones and dust: vs 4,10,15, 21. Space limits to two. “The Name of ADONAI is a Strong Tower; a righteous person runs to it and is raised high [above danger]. v10 “The tongue has power over life and death; those who indulge it must eat its fruit.” v21 The ancient tower builds upon the ground, using dust turned to mud-clay as a sealer between the stones. Elevated towers serve as defense and offense to invasions. Yet, the battle is The LORD’s. Proclaim His Word of Life over circumstances. Fear, depression and overwhelming finances are woes that wallow in death’s dust. Speak faithfully, the Resurrection of Life Dreams over your circumstances. Recall out loud the example of Yosef’s dreams turned to dust, yet, the stone statement, “GOD was with Yosef,” [Genesis 39:2, 3, 21,23] and he was a successful man.
Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) follows the stones and dust motif. “… the streets of Yerushalayim … they became waste and desolate.” [44:6] Why? Because Y’hudah offered incense ashes, dust, to idols! They openly, haughtily declared not the Torah as their foundation stones, but the queen of heaven. Husbands and wives consent together to make cakes marked with the idol image and answer the prophet of GOD: “As for the Word you have just spoken to us in the Name of ADONAI, we will not listen to you.” [44:16] Only few in number of an already diminished remnant that went down into Egypt to escape the Kasdim’s vengeance will return to the stones and dust of Tzion.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING. Stones and dust may be a metaphor for the details of our Foundation, influencing heart, head and hands. The psalmist is all in, loving The Very Presence of ADONAI, where He has Covenanted to place His Name eternally. Build with Stones of Righteousness revering our Redeemer KING.
Amein and Amein.
Kehilat Nahar Zerach River Rising Congregation offers the Daily Divine Design Devotional as both in-reach and out reach tools to encourage and equip emissaries for our Messiah Y’SHUA.
Shalom, Shalom ~
How to make effective use of the Daily Divine Design:
You, your family and friends are encouraged to read out loud the Sacred Scripture Scrolls. We strongly prefer the Complete Jewish Bible (CJB).
Following this unique systematic schedule in the Daily Divine Design you will complete the Bible in a year, every year! (You will hear Proverbs 12 times, Psalms 3 times, and complete the New Covenant and the First Covenant, at least once each.)
The Daily Divine Design encourages common community conversations which build life bridges in making disciples daily. Making disciples (redeemed, transformed followers in relationship with Messiah Y’SHUA) is first instructed by Avinu Malkeinu, our Father and our KING in D’varim (Deuteronomy) 6:4-9 CJB.
As your family listens to the Living Word, you and they will sense and experience an intimate drawing and growing to follow Messiah Y’SHUA.
HaShem’s Presence, not just His Hand of Provision, will empower you for Healing and Restoring. As a disciple of Messiah Y’SHUA you can fully expect to learn to represent His Power & Authority, as it is in Heaven, so on earth, for yourself and others.
When you enter the Sanctuary of The Presence of The Living Word daily, you are encouraged, early in the morning, to prepare your heart, head and hands with seven foundational and framing Scriptures before you begin. Scriptures for your learning and recitation are presented on the back page of Daily Divine Design, along with selected Hebraic Blessings.
Have questions? Need prayer for Healing & Restoring for any dimension of your life? Have a dream for which you need a GOD-Given interpretation? Hungry and thirsty for more of The Presence of GOD in Worship, Teaching and Fellowship? We are available as a trusted and wise resource in our relationship with Messiah Y’SHUA.
Please contact:
KEHILAT NAHAR ZERACH RIVER RISING CONGREGATION
541 Country Lane, Mount Vernon, Missouri USA 65712.1985
# 417.366.2428 ~ eukel@eukel.org ~ www.RiverRising.net
Today's (7 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 24-25; John 6; Psalms 89:1-18; Proverbs 7
It is "The Day After ...". In Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) the prophet is given a vision of baskets of figs, good and bad. Judgment is coming to Isra'el and to those who seek her ruin and waste. After seventy years, not before, the day after, Isra'el will be restored. The Restoration of GOD's People (both the natural and grafted-in branches of the Fig Tree) is not only physical, but also spiritual restoration.
Yochanan (John) records for us in today's systematic strategic out loud reading of Sacred Scripture Scrolls, two miracles.
First, feeding 5,000 men (plus women, children, conservative estimate 15-25,000) with a boy's lunch - Five barley bread loaves and two fish. After the feeding, so that nothing gets wasted, twelve baskets were filled with the pieces of barley loaves.
The second miracle happens during the dark of night on Lake Kinneret (Lake Tiberias). Y'SHUA walks on the water [when He boards the boat with his talmidim (disciples), instantly the boat reached the land they were heading for]! The day after the feeding of barley loaves and fish, the crowd discover that Y'SHUA and His disciples are not on this far side of the lake and one boat is missing. Many board boats and cross over to K'far-Nachum in search of Y'SHUA.
Y'SHUA understands the crowd followers are looking for more and regular daily bread to eat, much like the manna in the desert that lasted 40 years. Yet The Bread of Life from Heaven is Present before them. The enigmatic challenge Messiah Y'SHUA presents is, "... the bread that I will give is My own Flesh ... unless you eat the Flesh of the Son of Man and drink His Blood ... whoever eats My Flesh and drinks My Blood lives in me, and I live in him." (JN 6:51-57 CJB)
If, the day after, you and I are looking for a physical bread of life in political election outcomes, it will never be fully satisfying. The basket of figs is both good and bad. However, as life-time daily followers of Messiah Y'SHUA, we can be in His Presence and daily experience the supernatural naturally!
It is the day after. You are Lovingly invited to digest the Word of Life. Follow faithfully the systematic strategic schedule offered to you through theDaily Divine Design. Walking-on-the-Water-Bread is an Eternal Promise to sustain and satisfy you and your family now, and the day after.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, You sustain and satisfy us in all circumstances so that even the day after you comfort us with Your Presence. Let my heart, head and hands offer daily nourishing bread. And through Your Word may I hear Your Supernatural Wisdom to offer nurturing Spiritual Bread, today and the day after.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (8 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 26-27; John 7; Psalms 89:19-37; Proverbs 8
“You’re Fired!” The day after the 2018 midterm elections POTUS Trump had White House chief of staff, General (ret.) John Kelley call the United States Attorney General Jeff Sessions to request his resignation.
Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) the prophet is to be killed, an ultimate firing. Jeremiah would not recuse himself from doom & gloom prophecy: ‘This house shall become like Shiloh,’ and ‘This city will become uninhabited ruins.’ Governing officials, cohanim (Jewish priests) and the people wanted ADONAI’s prophet to proclaim peace and prosperity. Without true repentance from apostacy, however, the impending invasion of N’vukhadnetzar, Bavel’s king would not be recalled.
Yochanan (John) records the head cohanim and P’rushim sent guards to arrest Y’SHUA in order to kill him. The trumped-up charge? Y’SHUA violated the Sabbath by making a man’s whole body well on Shabbat and He claimed to be sent from The One GOD. The eternal reality? Our Messiah Y’SHUA offers Rivers of Living Water to all who put their trust in Him. Keep coming and drinking!
Tehillim (Psalms) teaches us ADONAI’s Faithfulness and Grace will be with us. We may abandon GOD’s Torah and fail to live by His Rulings, profane His Regulations, and not obey His Mitzvot. Our disobedience, justly, will be punished. Yet ADONAI Promises, “I won’t withdraw My Grace or be false to My Faithfulness.”
Mishlei (Proverbs) personifies Wisdom, Who is calling and raising her Voice. Wisdom concludes, “How happy the person who listens to Me, who watches daily at My Gates and waits outside My Doors. For he who finds Me finds Life and obtains the Favor of ADONAI.” Missing Wisdom is harmful, ultimately like an eternal, “You’re Fired!”
Perhaps harsh realities, “You’re Fired!,” are not the result of your own hard heart abandoning ADONAI’s Way. You are retired and simply stumbled in the shop. The fall left a visible bruise and gash and not so hidden soreness. Our Messiah Y’SHUA offers whole body healing, not limited by Shabbat’s timing. The foreign invasion of fear is fenced in by Faith in ADONAI’s Faithful Fortress. Watch daily at His Gates of Wisdom for Life, Light and Love. Even “You’re Fired!,” is overcome in GOD’s Favor.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, when I experience harsh realities, like you’re fired, let my heart, head and hands turn to You, my Rock and my Salvation. The faith, courage and wisdom to stay on the course You set for me, I can trust for You are Life, Light and Love favoring me. Fear will not fence me in. When I willfully fail to observe Your Will, Way and Word may I be quick to repent and turn from my sin, returning to You.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (9 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 28-29; John 8; Psalms 89:38-52; Proverbs 9
“Preying Prophet vs Praying Prophet” contrasts men who speak on behalf of ADONAI in Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah). A prophet says peace in two years the other prophet says seventy years of exile is certain. Whose word is a Word of ADONAI?
Yochanan (John) captures the conflict of whose law rules—Moshe’s about a woman caught in the very act of adultery to be stoned to death, or Y’SHUA’s teaching, “The one of you who is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her”? Which Word prevails—judgment governs or justice in grace?
Tehillim (Psalms) contradicts the faithfulness to King Dav’id. Foes have left his crown in the dust and left his strongholds in ruins. The pitiful cry is, “How long, ADONAI? Will You hide Yourself forever?” … “Where, ADONAI, are the acts of Grace You once did?”
Mishlei (Proverbs) calls to the unsure and weak-willed among us whose lack of thinking, rightly, is trapped by coarse ways that lead to the depths of death. Wisdom provides a seven-pillar house of understanding that grows wiser and learns righteousness more. “The fear (respect, reverence) of ADONAI is the beginning of Wisdom, and knowledge of The Holy One is understanding.”
Three days after the U.S. elections analysis of what happened, why and where do we go from here are being offered. Pundits do a deeper dive into the possible conflicting paths by the limited “wins” of the two major political parties. Whose contrarian voice do we hear?
The prophets of peace (Hananyah and Sh’ma’yah) seem to have a powerful constituency. Might is right, right? The iron enslavement yoke, coupled to seventy years of exile is the harsh prophecy of Jeremiah . Where is GOD’s Great Grace in that Word of ADONAI?
The muddled middle of media that attempts to be “fair and balanced” about Truth, as if GOD’s Wisdom was positioned neither on the left or the right, but miraculously centered in-between, is foolish thinking. Your daily habit of systematically and strategically reading out loud GOD’s Word is your Or HaOlam Light of the world. We do not need to remain unsure because of contrasting prophetic words, or a conflict trap between judgment and grace, or the seeming hiddenness of GOD’s Faithfulness or even a siren call for coarse ways of immediate gratification. The short summation of The Central Command of Sacred Scripture Scrolls is: Love GOD. Love others. On purpose.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, You are Or HaOlam The Light of the world. Yes, it seems that many sides of “truth” are made available, some “truths” more attractive than others. Let the foundation of my house be Your Seven Pillars of Wisdom. Though it may seem Your Grace delays, empower my spirit with Your Spirit to discern and seek justice and grace for others trapped by sin’s enslavement. When I speak prophetic words that You give, may it clearly be received as Your Truth.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (10 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 30; John 9; Psalms 90; Proverbs 10
The six “r”-words in Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) 30, profoundly point to prophetic redemptive words: Reverse, Return (3x), Rest, Restore, Rebuilt, Ruler.
ADONAI promises to reverse the exile of His people Isra’el and Y’hudah. HaShem will cause us to return to the Land of our ancestors; return us from far away countries of exile; and return Ya’akov’s captive exiles to their tents. The Mighty One will establish quiet and rest with no one to make us afraid. El Rapha (GOD our Healer) will restore our health and heal our wounds. Dwellings and cities will be rebuilt on our own tels (hills) with palaces. GOD’s people will have, not a foreigner, but one of their own, one among us, as Ruler.
Yochanan (John) records restoration by the Light of the world. A man born blind from birth washes off mud and sees on the Sabbath. The cause of birth blindness is not the darkness of sin by him or his parents. Messiah Y’SHUA’s miracle [9:32 In all of history no one has ever heard of someone’s opening the eyes of a man born blind] is coupled to return (t’shuvah). The healed seeing man declares, “LORD, I trust,” and kneels down in front of his Redeemer KING, the Son of Man.
Tehillim (Psalms) 90 is known as “a prayer of Moshe the man of GOD.” HaShem’s Majesty is juxtaposed from GOD’s Viewpoint of a thousand years is merely like yesterday or a night watch, to the frailty of man’s seventy years, or if he is strong, eighty. Moshe’s heart, head and hands wants the Favor of ADONAI our GOD to be on us. He prays, “… prosper for us all the works that we do—yes, prosper the work that we do.” The double request is a redemptive rebuilding physically and spiritually.
Mishlei (Proverbs) 10, credited “of Shlomo” (Solomon), confirms the righteous are Blessed, even their memory! The disparity between the undisciplined, crooked, foolish son and the wise, diligent sensible son is seen in the Hebrew parallel poetic thirty-two lines.
“The Way of ADONAI is a Stronghold to the upright but ruin to those who do evil.”
Relevant in Yochanan, the religious rulers object to man-made protocols and dogma being contravened. The man born blind would have remained in darkness if the “Sabbath Breaker” had not in Mercy, Wisdom and Love shown the Favor of ADONAI. A momentous moment for the Blessed Believer to embrace is Divine Healing as a Merciful Grace Gift to those still blinded by foolish self-pursuits; in other words, pre-Redemption. Restorative miracles lead to Redemption and follow. It is both-and; not moored in membership to a religious club or rules.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, humble my heart, head and hands to return to Your Rule, not my man-made traditions that prevent Mercy and Healing. ‘Open my eyes so that I will see Wonders from Your Word.’
Amein and Amein.
Today's (11 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 31; John 10; Psalms 91; Proverbs 11
The larger-than-usual crowd was likely due to the featured speaker, a national well-known gifted and trusted man of GOD. Somewhere to the speaker’s left, in a middle section, middle of a row was a quiet, somewhat shy and insecure 15 year-old boy. “Come up here, young man,” as he pointed in my general direction. “Yes, you, in the middle of the row, come up here.” I don’t recall rushing to get around knees while trying not to step on people’s feet. Finally, I made it to the open aisle. “Come up here, young man. GOD has a Word for you!” I remember one phrase and did not know it was part of a verse in Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) spoken from the Heart of HaShem to the heart of a son of Isra’el: “I Love you with an Everlasting Love” [31:2(3)]. I have never forgotten the words or the feeling of a deep washed-over-my-spirit with liquid Love, Words that were timely spoken to an, unbeknownst to him, Jewish boy that aspired to be called-out, unique from a muddled middle living.
Yochanan (John) often refers to “the one whom Y’SHUA loved.” Tradition calls this follower of Y’SHUA, “Yochanan (John) the beloved.” Thrice today you heard Y’SHUA identify Himself as “The Good Shepherd” Who lays down His Life on behalf of the sheep. What Great Love! What Everlasting Love! Messiah Y’SHUA came that you and I, Believers, may have Life, Life in its fullest measure. Some sheep are known to aimlessly wander, caught by the twinkle of adventures outside the pastures seeking a false fullness. Wolves and other animals of prey look for that stray sheep. The enemy of our soul comes to destroy. “He who searches for evil—it comes to him.” Proverbs 11:27b
Tehillim (Psalms) 91 is a well-known comfort-in-times-of-trouble. “My GOD, in Whom I trust! - He will rescue you from the trap of the hunter.” ’Elyon, Who is our Refuge and Dwelling Place, says to His people, “Because he loves Me, I will rescue him; because he knows My Name, I will protect him.” Our intimacy with ADONAI, The Most High will satisfy with long life and we will be shown HaShem’s Salvation. Our place in ADONAI is not a security shelter for the battered, backward or bitter. Calev, at 80, expected to overcome the fortified hills of Hevron for his families inheritance in the Land of Promise. He was wise enough to incentivize with his daughter’s heart in marriage a younger man to capture the future first capital city of King Dav’id. The lyric video song by Matthew West, “All In” captures our bold pursuits. Follow the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RwDpnKIvUI
Mishlei (Proverbs) continues a theme of Everlasting Life and Love: “The fruit of the righteous is a Tree of Life, and he who is wise wins souls.” The Good Shepherd knows His sheep and we know His Voice. Do you hear Abba? “I Love you with an Everlasting Love” Gifted musical artists have called to our hearts, heads and hands in worship. “Come Dance With Me!” Our desire of intimacy with our Heavenly Father is by Divine Design.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, Your Eternal Love is an overwhelming River to me. Let me wade in, no, come deep into the center of intimacy where I can’t swim and You, Loving Father, are in control of the overflow of my heart, head and hands. Let Your River flow on earth as it is in Heaven.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (12 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 32; John 11; Psalms 92-93; Proverbs 12
“I AM The Resurrection and The Life” … are the words [Yochanan (John) 11:25] our Messiah Y’SHUA spoke to the sisters Miryam and Marta of El’azar. Their brother was dead, in a cave tomb with a stone closure, for four days. GOD’s Faithfulness would wake up El’azar, whom Y’SHUA loved, from his “sleep.”
Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah), the prophet, is imprisoned because he spoke the Word of ADONAI: Jerusalem will be handed over to the Kasdim’s king of Bavel, N’vukhadretzar, through sword, famine and plague. The city will be burned down, including houses whose roofs were used in ba’al offerings. The annihilation is the aftermath of apostacy. Jeremiah, while imprisoned, is impressed with another Word: Buy the field (at ‘Anatot in the territory of Binyamin) for money, and call witnesses; even as the city is being turned over to the Kasdim.”
“Is there anything too hard for Me?” asks ADONAI. Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) 32:27b
Tehillim (Psalms) 92 is a song for Shabbat. We sing praises to ’Elyon. We tell in the morning about Your Grace and at night about Your Faithfulness. Before it happens, in the morning, we proclaim assurance in GOD’s Resurrection Life. After the dark valley adventures, at night, our melody with musical instruments, affirms HaShem’s Faithfulness! Psalm 93 insists that ADONAI is High and Mighty over nature’s crashing rushing waters. HaShem’s Instructions are very sure.
Mishlei (Proverbs) wisdom gives hope in the simple parallel line, “Once the wicked are down, it’s the end of them; but the house of the upright endures.” Yes, bad things happen to bad people. And, in the midst of annihilation or death’s dark dungeon, the Righteous by Faith will have Life that survives and thrives! “No [lasting] harm can come to the righteous, but the wicked are overwhelmed with disaster.”
At the risk of being out-of-step with short-term news cycles in the future, today’s news is a backdrop for Daily Divine Design. Do you have eyes to see and ears to hear the application? Ballot irregularities in Florida, Georgia and Arizona are still affecting gubernatorial and U.S. Senate elections six days after the General. Northern and southern California have 83,000 acres ablaze with hot fires pushed by high winds. Eighty have been killed in the firestorm. At the 100-year commemoration of the “war to end all wars” - WWI, France’s head of state publicly disrespect’s POTUS Trump’s, “I am a ’nationalist’,” statement as unpatriotic. Isra’el is defending against rockets, riots and rapid terrorists, again, today.
“Is there anything too hard for Me?” asks ADONAI. “I AM The Resurrection and The Life.”
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, I admit what You already know. The dangers surrounding my heart, head and hands overwhelm me. Even though I want to do right because You Love me, I find myself living less, rather than large. My hope is in You, my LORD and Redeemer. Help my little Faith grow in Trusting You. Resurrect me to Your Life.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (13 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 33-34; John 12-13; Psalms 94; Proverbs 13
“A second time...” the prophetic Words came to Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) while still imprisoned. Jerusalem’s houses and palaces are about to be destroyed used as siege-works and ramparts. The Kasdim army will be the instrument ADONAI uses to strike down wickedness in Isra’el and Y’hudah. A second time, “however,” is spoken. Health and healing, revelation of peace and truth will be returned. ADONAI promises cleansing from sin, a pardon. Redemption will result in joy, praise and glory when the nations hear the good news and joyful peace ADONAI secures. The voices of a future, from bridegrooms and brides will sing, “Give thanks to ADONAI-Tzva’ot … His Grace continues forever.” The redeemed, returned, will bring Offerings of Thanksgiving into the House of ADONAI.
If you can hear it, Messiah Y’SHUA’s Words and Deeds are a second time, spoken before in Words that came to prophets of GOD to be fulfilled. Yochanan (John) captures such a prophetic fulfillment, “Blessed is he who comes in the Name of ADONAI” at John 12:13 first declared from Psalm 118:26. One of the important prophetic fulfillments is Messiah Y’SHUA’s unpacking Y’hudah of K’riot’s betrayal as words of the TaNaKh to be fulfilled, “The one eating My Bread has turned against Me.” John 13:18-19 from Psalm 41:10(9).
Tehillim (Psalms) 94 also has a “once again” hope: “For ADONAI will not desert His people, He will not abandon His heritage. Justice will once again become righteous, and all the upright in heart will follow it.” 94:14-15 It may appear that the wicked triumph far too long, yet the GOD of vengeance will appear. Messiah Y’SHUA first came as Redeemer, the Sacrifice Lamb of GOD. He is coming a second time as the Roaring Lion of Y’hudah to Rule and Reign His Kingdom without end!
Mishlei (Proverbs) cautions those who scoff at prophetic words and too easily dismiss them as ancient rantings. “The teaching of a wise man is a fountain of life, enabling one to avoid deadly traps.” v14 It is clear in the Scroll of Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah), those whose disbelief dismissed the gloom and doom of Jeremiah’s words, that lead to repentance, redemption and restoration had the power to imprison GOD’s man — for a season. Just as clear we will soon read about those who believed the hard and heavy prophetic word, will avoid the traps of death and destruction, yet losing self-rule — for a season.
When HaShem’s Word is a second time, we learn to embrace the prophetic nature of that Word to be fulfilled, and also see GOD’s Great Grace elucidated toward us—a second time!
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, it seems the season of our days are filled with secrets of the prophetic end-times; some doom and gloom, others raging revival. Remind me, “Every Word of GOD is Pure; You Shield those taking Refuge in ADONAI. Don’t add anything to His Words, or He will rebuke you, and you be found a liar.” [Proverbs 30:5-6]
Amein and Amein.
Today's (14 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 35-36; John 14; Psalms 95-96; Proverbs 14
Who are Rekhavim (Rechabites) Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) uses to contrast observed fidelity to an ancestors order but not listen & obey to The Ancient of Days? [35:2-19] (For references in Scripture to this clan see Judges 4:11-22; 2 Kings 10:15-28; Nehemiah 3:14; and 1 Chronicles 2:55) The Rekhavim clan is important. The GOD of Isra’el, says: “Because you have heeded the order of Yonadav your ancestor, observed all his commands and done what he ordered you to do; therefore … Yonadav the son of Rekhav will never lack a descendant to stand before Me.” [35:18-19] An unconditional covenant? How do you explain a pre-New Testament Kingdom inclusion? Rabbinic literature traces Rekhavim to the father-in-law of Moshe, to a companion of King Jehu who orders the slaughter of ba’al prophets, and to builders of a portion of the re-built wall of Jerusalem. The literature also says they became scribes for the Sanhedrin in fulfillment of “standing before HaShem.” Some trace Rechabites to Jews of China.
Yochanan (John) records two sayings of Messiah Y’SHUA that indicates a fidelity to be observed: “I AM the Way—and the Truth and the Life; no one comes to the Father except through Me.” [14:6] “If you love Me, you will keep My Commandments.” [14:15] Understanding that GOD is One (Deuteronomy 6:4-9 The Sh’ma) our Redemption through Messiah Y’SHUA is the same Redemption through GOD. Additionally, the Commandments of Messiah Y’SHUA to Love Him are the same Commandments we observe to Love GOD. The fidelity of observing the Commandments does not merit our Redemption. The fidelity of observing is the life-long-learning outgrowth of our Redemptive Relationship with One GOD. It is Faith/Trust with Works. Not Trust to the exclusion of Works. Nor is “salvation” only at the cross but never before. Explain the Everlasting Covenant was not “everlasting” to the Rechabites? Or to Enoch, Noah, Avraham, King David, Elijah, Rahab (not related to the Rechabites) and the “Old Testament” Hall of Faith Heroes detailed in Hebrews 11?
Tehillim (Psalms) 95 and 96 read together, calls you and I to “shout for Joy to The Rock of our Salvation!” It is instructive as part of our giving ADONAI the Glory due to His Name that we bring an offering. Rabbi, now you have downgraded the devotional commentary by alluding to taking up money. Perhaps you have downplayed the observation of fidelity to entering His Courtyard by your empty hands. ADONAI does not need your money. You faithfully give GOD His Due, no excuses, no delays, no false control, otherwise, how do you reflect HaShem’s Glory and Strength?
Mishlei (Proverbs) wisdom contrasts clean stalls with no oxen (plural) with much production from the strength of an ox (singular). Observing GOD’s Loving Commands with fidelity is to be our hallmark as Messiah’s followers. Not doing so may appear “clean” but lacks the fruit of your faithful labors of love toward HaShem. Amein?
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, may our fidelity to Your Word and Way be wholehearted, a representation of Your Glory.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (15 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 37-38; John 15; Psalms 97; Proverbs 15
Messengers, sons of prominent men among King Tzidkiyahu’s court, deliver on behalf of the king a request to the prophet Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah), “Please pray to ADONAI our GOD for us.” One of those messengers, Y’hukhal [השם], is perhaps an early rendition of my modern family name, Eukel (see Proverbs 30:1 for another rendition, Ukhal; Hebrew has no vowels. Pronunciation of either name’s ending could also be ‘el, a common convention to a Hebrew name putting GOD’s Name in the person’s name, as in ‘Elhoyim or abbreviated ‘El). This, plus an imaginary dime’s cost of a cup of coffee at home, might warrant a cordial conversation among friends. You were looking for more? Keep reading.
“I AM The Vine and you are the Branches.” Yochanan (John)15:5 names you and I in a continual redemptive relationship with Messiah Y’SHUA. You may have a prominent family heritage, direct or indirect, that is a point of pride. Greater, however, is your spiritual life in Messiah Y’SHUA’s Kingdom that allows you naturally “supernaturally” to bear much godly fruit. Furthermore, Messiah Y’SHUA confirms, “If you remain united with Me, and My Words with you, then ask whatever you want, and it will happen for you.” Y’SHUA’s illegitimate night arrest on the Mount of Olives at a place called Gat-Sh’manim could have been prevented. Not by Kefa’s (Peter’s) aberrant sword skills. Y’SHUA simply needed to ask His Father and would have instantly been provided a dozen legion of angels [a Roman legion was 5,000 men, thus 60,000, not 10,000 angels of a popular Christian song. According to Paul Lee Tan, the songwriter, Ray Overholt wrote the famous song, He Could Have Called Ten Thousand Angels. Ray’s own song led Ray to accept Messiah Y’SHUA as LORD and Savior!)]. However, and here is the important take away, the Words must align, be united with, HaShem’s Will. Your want is to be united with Messiah Y’SHUA’s Want! Anything spoken outside His Will & Way is as aberrant as Kefa’s sword. Incantations, however sincerely named & claimed, are not a part of the Branch connected to the Family Vine and are, therefore, of limited merit in The Kingdom.
Tehillim (Psalms) 97 clearly names Who is KING and Who Rules and Reigns. The Name ADONAI is repeated seven times. HaShem’s identity is expressed not just in One Name but in many. ADONAI reveals His relationship to His people as LORD. There is no other. HaShem’s Holy Personal Name (reading from right to left Heh-Vav-Heh-Yud יהוה <=) is never spoken, in reverence to ADONAI’s Gimel (3rd)Commandment [Sh’mot (Exodus) 20:7].
“The tongue of the wise presents knowledge well,” v2 of today’s Mishlei (Proverbs). “The mind of the righteous thinks before speaking.” (v28) “The discipline of wisdom is fear of ADONAI, so before being honored, a person must be humble.” (v33) Such Wisdoms are the fruit of being in The Vine, continually carrying the Family Name representing our Master Messiah Y’SHUA. Are you recognizable as resembling our Redeemer?
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING, may we be faithfully named as messengers of Your Kingdom here on earth, as it is in Heaven. May we be united, heart, head and hands with You, not wielding weapons of words or ways inconsistent with Your Reign.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (16 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 39:1-40:6; John 16; Psalms 98-99; Proverbs 16
The Word of ADONAI decreed to Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) disaster to take place. The siege took 18 months. The invading Kasdim army knew they were the instrument of GOD to punish Isra’el’s sins. The king of Bavel slaughtered all the leading men of Y’hudah, slaughtered the sons of Tzidkiyahu, put out the eyes of the king of Y’hudah, burned down the royal palace, the people’s houses and broke down the walls of Yerushalayim. “Left behind,” were some poor people, who had nothing. Jeremiah, the prophet of pandemonium, was also left behind. Yet, the Word of ADONAI had not left. In the midst of Divinely decreed disaster, ADONAI said to the Ethiopian, ’Eved-Melekh (whose name means servant of the king), “because you have put your trust in Me, I will keep you safe!”
Our Messiah Y’SHUA tells His followers in Yochanan (John) the near and far future. GOD does not want us left behind in surprise. “In the world, you have tsuris (trouble). But be brave! I have conquered the world!” Tsuris, such as, shut out of synagogue, exterminate you as if they serve GOD, scattered, even leaving Messiah. “But your grief will turn to joy.” During the period of grief for my older brother, David Dean ע״ה , killed in Vietnam, GOD’s Comforting Spirit gave me a strange word from The Word. I could not leave behind the Overwhelming Peace of an enigmatic verse in John 16:21. I thought, how does this pregnancy word relate to me? When my parents, Donald Dean ע״ה and Patricia Gloria Faye ע״ה, called from New Orleans to tell me the heart-breaking news, I was an 18-year old sophomore in L.I.F.E. Bible College (Los Angeles, CA). Ema (Mother in Hebrew אמא) had other news, too. Before Ema spoke the ‘other news’ Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) reminded me of the weird verse given to fill me with Shalom (Peace), a prophetic word for the near future. “Mom, you are pregnant and will have a son!” My youngest brother, Donald Dean, Jr., at his birth, my sorrow and suffering was supernaturally removed.
Tehillim (Psalms) 98-99 are new vibrant songs to ADONAI. “ADONAI has made known His Victory; revealed His vindication in full view of the nations, remembered His Grace and Faithfulness to the House of Isra’el. All the ends of the earth have seen the Victory of our GOD.” Then all of GOD’s created break forth singing joy and praise—nothing and no one is left behind in the melodious music! ADONAI is KING of kings and LORD of lords.
Mishlei (Proverbs) wisely instructs you and I, “If you entrust all you do to ADONAI, your plans will achieve success.” Further wisdom is offered: “A person may plan his path, but ADONAI directs his steps.” That is not a contradiction about free will being left behind, but rather complimentary wisdom. Entrust all, your success path then is directed in and by HaShem’s Wisdom.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING. Even a foreigner as servant to a wayward king is not left behind. Periods of great family sorrow are still pregnant with joyful hope. HaShem, You have filled my heart and mouth with singing songs of praise to You, my Redeemer and Restorer. Enemies may seem to surround me and attempt to block GOD-given plans, but I am not left behind from Your Wisdom and Path of Success. I Trust You, alone and join the chorus of praise.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (17 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 40:7-43:13; John 17; Psalms 100-101; Proverbs 17
The Wisdom Writings of Mishlei (Proverbs) values explicitly both the older and the younger. “Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, while the glory of children is their ancestors.” v6 A crown placed by hands on top of the head is positioned as a place of heart pride. Children’s glory is birthed in faith-filled and faithful grandparents filling descendants with the Path of Righteousness. “A knowledgeable person controls his tongue; a discerning person controls his temper.” v27
Tehillim (Psalms) 100-101 instructs generational enduring values. “For ADONAI is Good, His Grace continues forever, and His Faithfulness lasts through all generations.” 100:5 “I look to the faithful of the Land, so that they can be my companions; those who live lives of integrity can be servants of mine.” 101:6 Many of us are able to share with others the faithful wisdom we learned from our parents or grandparents. Pithy points to ponder, in persons or parables are valued. Even more so when we anchor that Ancient Wisdom in GOD’s Faithful Word reflected in the legacy of our Biblical Faith Family.
Yochanan (John) 17 is the Prayer for Disciples our Messiah Y’SHUA prayed — for all generations of His Followers. “I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those You have given to Me, because they are Yours.” v9 What was the enduring value Messiah Y’SHUA prayed for His disciples? Oneness, unity, set apart for Holiness by means of the Truth, protection from the evil one, that the Love with which HaShem Loves may be in them. Clearly, those values reflect a Golden Crown of GOD’s Glory. Honestly, I admit, that is not as clear in my mirror reflecting the spiritual values of Love and Unity in me or my family.
Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) records the prayer request of the remnant, intending to go down to Egypt. “Pray that ADONAI your GOD will tell us what direction to take and what to do.” 42:3 “Ten days later the Word of ADONAI came to” the prophet of GOD. 42:7 What was the direction to take? Stay in the Land. ADONAI will build you up, plant you, be with you to save you and to rescue you. What did the prophet discern the remnant would do? “You have not heeded any part of what ADONAI your GOD gave me to tell you.” 42:21 Unity in direction or duty was not the remnant’s intention, before the prayer request. It would impact descendants, and not for a crown or glory.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING. We see in Your Word that generational Blessings is Your Prayer for us, Your followers. The identity markers are Love and Unity. Grant us Wisdom to surround ourselves and therefore our children’s children with Faith-filled Faithful Family. Daily as we seek Divine Direction and Duty, strengthen our hearts, heads and hands to not intend duplicity. May we be planted as Your Redeemed remnant.
Amein and Amein.
Today's (18 November) Daily Divine Design is:
¨ Jeremiah 44; John 18:1-18; Psalms 102; Proverbs 18
“For Your servants love her [Tziyon] very stones; they take pity even on her [Tziyon] dust.” v15(14) is in the middle of Tehillim (Psalms) 102. What are we to learn from the stones and dust of Tziyon loved by the servants of HaShem? The 29 verses of this prayer psalm is of a sufferer overcome by weakness and pouring out his complaint before ADONAI. Before the half-way point, we hear a focus shift, “But You, ADONAI, are enthroned forever…” v13(12) The shift is to the Foundations laid by ADONAI. Examine the stones and dust.
Yochanan (John) narrates the betrayal by Y’hudah (the one meant for destruction, so that the TaNaKh might be fulfilled John 17:12). Seeking to arrest Y’SHUA of Natzeret, Jewish temple guards dispatched by the head cohanim and the P’rushim along with a detachment of Roman soldiers enter the spot where there was a grove of trees, Mount of Olives (parallel passages: Matthew 26:30; Mark 14:26; Luke 22:39; John 18:1). Y’SHUA, identified Himself with the Foundational Stone statement: “I AM.” The same Foundational Stone HaShem used with Moshe (Exodus 3:14). The arresting mob fell back to the ground [dust]. Y’SHUA’s Eternal Holy Name is in the Heavenly Language, Hebrew (reading from right to left: Heh-Yud-Heh-Alef <=). The Foundation Stone is the Name and Nature of ’Ehyeh.
Four verses in Mishlei (Proverbs) compliment the emphasis of stones and dust: vs 4,10,15, 21. Space limits to two. “The Name of ADONAI is a Strong Tower; a righteous person runs to it and is raised high [above danger]. v10 “The tongue has power over life and death; those who indulge it must eat its fruit.” v21 The ancient tower builds upon the ground, using dust turned to mud-clay as a sealer between the stones. Elevated towers serve as defense and offense to invasions. Yet, the battle is The LORD’s. Proclaim His Word of Life over circumstances. Fear, depression and overwhelming finances are woes that wallow in death’s dust. Speak faithfully, the Resurrection of Life Dreams over your circumstances. Recall out loud the example of Yosef’s dreams turned to dust, yet, the stone statement, “GOD was with Yosef,” [Genesis 39:2, 3, 21,23] and he was a successful man.
Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) follows the stones and dust motif. “… the streets of Yerushalayim … they became waste and desolate.” [44:6] Why? Because Y’hudah offered incense ashes, dust, to idols! They openly, haughtily declared not the Torah as their foundation stones, but the queen of heaven. Husbands and wives consent together to make cakes marked with the idol image and answer the prophet of GOD: “As for the Word you have just spoken to us in the Name of ADONAI, we will not listen to you.” [44:16] Only few in number of an already diminished remnant that went down into Egypt to escape the Kasdim’s vengeance will return to the stones and dust of Tzion.
Prayer & Key Lesson: אָבִינוּ מַלְכֵּנוּ Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father our KING. Stones and dust may be a metaphor for the details of our Foundation, influencing heart, head and hands. The psalmist is all in, loving The Very Presence of ADONAI, where He has Covenanted to place His Name eternally. Build with Stones of Righteousness revering our Redeemer KING.
Amein and Amein.