Heather Congrove

Numbers 11:26-12:16, In-depth Study

Welcome back to our in-depth Bible study. We are still in the book of Numbers and are quickly working out way through. May you have eyes that see and ears that hear. May you find truth in God word and put aside the traditions of men that are so often taught in replace od scriptures.

Numbers 11:26

26 But there remained two of the men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the spirit rested upon them; and they were of them that were written, but went not out unto the tabernacle: and they prophesied in the camp.

27 And there ran a young man, and told Moses, and said, Eldad and Medad do prophesy in the camp.

28 And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of Moses, one of his young men, answered and said, My lord Moses, forbid them.

29 And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? would God that all the LORD’S people were prophets, and that the LORD would put his spirit upon them!

30 And Moses gat him into the camp, he and the elders of Israel.

31 And there went forth a wind from the LORD, and brought quails from the sea, and let them fall by the camp, as it were a day’s journey on this side, and as it were a day’s journey on the other side, round about the camp, and as it were two cubits high upon the face of the earth.

32 And the people stood up all that day, and all that night, and all the next day, and they gathered the quails: he that gathered least gathered ten homers: and they spread them all abroad for themselves round about the camp.

33 And while the flesh was yet between their teeth, ere it was chewed, the wrath of the LORD was kindled against the people, and the LORD smote the people with a very great plague.

34 And he called the name of that place Kibrothhattaavah: because there they buried the people that lusted.

35 And the people journeyed from Kibrothhattaavah unto Hazeroth; and abode at Hazeroth.

Numbers 12
1 And Miriam and Aaron spake against Moses because of the Ethiopian woman whom he had married: for he had married an Ethiopian woman.

2 And they said, Hath the LORD indeed spoken only by Moses? hath he not spoken also by us? And the LORD heard it.

3 (Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.)

4 And the LORD spake suddenly unto Moses, and unto Aaron, and unto Miriam, Come out ye three unto the tabernacle of the congregation. And they three came out.

5 And the LORD came down in the pillar of the cloud, and stood in the door of the tabernacle, and called Aaron and Miriam: and they both came forth.

6 And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.

7 My servant Moses is not so, who is faithful in all mine house.

8 With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the LORD shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?

9 And the anger of the LORD was kindled against them; and he departed.

10 And the cloud departed from off the tabernacle; and, behold, Miriam became leprous, white as snow: and Aaron looked upon Miriam, and, behold, she was leprous.

11 And Aaron said unto Moses, Alas, my lord, I beseech thee, lay not the sin upon us, wherein we have done foolishly, and wherein we have sinned.

12 Let her not be as one dead, of whom the flesh is half consumed when he cometh out of his mother’s womb.

13 And Moses cried unto the LORD, saying, Heal her now, O God, I beseech thee.

14 And the LORD said unto Moses, If her father had but spit in her face, should she not be ashamed seven days? let her be shut out from the camp seven days, and after that let her be received in again.

15 And Miriam was shut out from the camp seven days: and the people journeyed not till Miriam was brought in again.

16 And afterward the people removed from Hazeroth, and pitched in the wilderness of Paran.

That is all for today’s lesson. Thank you for reading and God bless!

Rachel and Leah, an Extension Study of People in the Bible

The biblical account of Rachel and Leah’s marriage to Jacob, as recorded in Genesis 29-30 and 35, provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural norms and customs of ancient Mesopotamia. The narrative revolves around the complex relationships between Jacob, Rachel, and Leah, and the births of their children.

According to the biblical account, Jacob’s marriage to Rachel and Leah is facilitated through a series of agreements with their father, Laban. Jacob served Laban for seven years in exchange for Rachel’s hand in marriage, which represents the payment of the bride-price. However, Laban deceived Jacob by substituting Leah for Rachel on the wedding night.

After Jacob confronts Laban, they come to another agreement, allowing Jacob to marry Rachel in exchange for an additional seven years of service. This arrangement highlights the economic aspect of marriage in ancient Mesopotamia, where the bride-price was a crucial element of the marriage contract.

The biblical narrative reveals that Leah bears children shortly after her marriage to Jacob, while Rachel remains barren for an extended period. This delay in Rachel’s childbearing can be understood in light of the customs and traditions surrounding ancient Mesopotamian marriage contracts.

Research by scholar Korine Garroway on ancient Mesopotamian marriage contracts sheds light on the possible reasons behind the delay in Rachel’s childbearing. According to Garroway, these contracts often stipulated that the groom pay a bride-price to the bride’s family, which could be paid in installments. However, the final installment had to be paid before the birth of the first child.

In the context of Jacob’s marriage to Rachel, the birth of Joseph after Jacob’s additional seven years of service suggests that the bride-price for Rachel was paid in full. This interpretation is supported by the biblical narrative, which indicates that God remembers Rachel and she bears her first son, Joseph, after Leah has already had seven children.

The timing of births in the biblical story of Rachel and Leah takes on significant meaning when considered in light of ancient Mesopotamian customs. The birth of Joseph after the payment of the bride-price in full underscores his legitimacy as Jacob’s heir.

This understanding highlights the importance of considering the cultural context in which the biblical narrative arose. The story of Rachel and Leah’s childbearing reflects the societal norms and expectations of ancient Mesopotamia, where the payment of a bride-price and the legitimacy of children were closely tied.

In conclusion, the biblical account of Rachel and Leah’s marriage to Jacob provides valuable insights into the customs and traditions of ancient Mesopotamia. The delay in Rachel’s childbearing can be understood in light of the payment of the bride-price, which was a crucial element of ancient Mesopotamian marriage contracts. The birth of Joseph after the payment of the bride-price in full underscores his legitimacy as Jacob’s heir, highlighting the significance of cultural context in understanding the biblical narrative.

Elisa’s Prayer

Elisa woke up early excited for the day’s events. Yesterday Mother promised to take her to the park and her mom always sticks to her promises. She hopped out of bed bouncing down the stairs.
“Good morning Mother.”
“Good morning Elisa, are you ready to go to the park today?” Mother asked.
“You bet, as soon as I finish my breakfast. What is for breakfast today?”
“Anything you would like.”
“In that case I want jelly toast. Quick and simple to get is out the door and on the way to the park.”

Mother agreed and made her some toast with strawberry jelly smeared on top. Elisa scarfed down the food and rushed her mother out the door. She was bouncing in her seat as they arrived at the park. Elisa waited patiently for her mother, knowing she isn’t allowed to exit the car without her. After what seemed like an eternity, they left the vehicle. With a look of approval from her mother she sprints off to the giant fort style jungle gym, the biggest structure at the playground.

Elisa climbed high, feeling like she could almost touch the sky. She slid down the slides and hung on the money bars, she swung on the swings and climbed up the rock wall. On the last trip down the slide she saw a girl close to her age sitting all alone. She decided to ask the girl if she wanted to play.
“Hi, my name is Elisa. Would you like to play.”
“I really don’t feel like playing right now, my pet kitten is lost, we haven’t seen her in days.”
“Oh no, that’s awful. I am so sorry you can’t find your kitten. I know! We can pray for her safe return.”
“Pray, what does that mean?”
“It means we ask God to help us.”
“God? Who is God?”
“God is the one who made us and everything, even the world.”
“I have never heard about God.”
“Here let me show you.”
Elisa grabbed the girls hands and placed them together, with her hands on top.
“Close your eyes and open your heart.”
The girl nods in agreeance.
“Our heavenly Father, if it is your will I pray that her little kitty cat will come home safe and sound. Thank you Father, I love you and amen.”
“Do you really think it will work?” She asked with eyes full of hope.
Johnny walked by overhearing the girl’s prayers.
“God doesn’t care about your cat. He has more important things to worry about.” He said, nevermind the fact that he had never asked God for anything.
“That’s not true Johnny, God loves and cares for all the creatures, they are all God’s creation.”
Johnny scoffed at her silly notion.
With new hope that her beloved pet would return, Sarah decided to play. Before long the kitten was an afterthought and it was time for the children to return home. The girls said their goodbyes with plans to return the next day.
Sarah returnes home tired and ready for a hot meal. She drug herself out of the car and up the porch steps, her legs tired and weak. To her surprise a furry little face stood on the top step eager to greet her.
“Meow!”

Joy filled Sarah’s heart as she hugged the little kitten tight. “Thank you God. Thank you for caring about my baby kitten.”
Sarah went to bed that night praising God for the answered prayer.
The next morning she leped out of bed and scurried outside, confident her beloved pet would be there. Sure enough Misty the kitten sat at the door awaiting her breakfast. Sarah scooped her up again and thanked God once more for her little miracle. She ran inside to tell her mother about the divine intervention and how excited she was to tell Elisa today. Her mother admired her faith, something she could use some strengthening in.

At the playground Sarah joyfully tells Elisa about her answered prayer.
“You were right! God brought her back home safe and sound. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I returned home.”
“See I told you! I knew she would be there, I just KNEW it!”
Little Johnny overheard all the excitement but decided not to interject this time. That was all he needed, a couple of girls pointing out how he was wrong. Instead he ignored them and played alone.

A few weeks later and little Johnny is picked up from school early. His mother told him that his father was in a bad car accident. They went to the hospital to see him but Johnny was scared. His mother seemed really worried and was crying, his mother never cries unless something really bad happens. Like when his grandma passed away, she cried a lot thay time. In that moment a stark reality shook him to the core. Could his father be dieing? Was this morning the last time he would ever speak to him? Johnny started crying also, unsure of what to do he recalled Sarah’s lost kitten and Elisa’s prayer. If God was willing to help a lost kitten, maybe God would help his daddy too.
In the hospital waiting room he dropped to his knees and prayed like he had never before. He hoped his prayer would be just half as good as Elisa’s.
“God I’m sorry for saying you didn’t care. I’m sorry for laughing at Sara and Elise. God my daddy is really hurt right now and he needs you. Can you please give him and miracle like you have Sarah’s kitten. I know you care about God, and Mommy and me really need Daddy here with us. Please God heal him and let him stay with us. Amen.”
While little Johnny was busy praying his mother took notice. Her heart filled with pride and shame, for prayer never crossed her mind as it should have. Yet her son, who was never taught God, was praying for his father no doubt. It has been a long time since she called upon God and that was something that was going to change. Not just today but everyday.
She joined her son on the floor and prayed harder than she had ever before. Johnny was amazed when he finished praying and his mother was next to him, still deep in her own prayer. Once she finished she lifted her tear stained eyes and hugged her son tightly. Just then a doctor approaches them.
“Are you Mrs.Huxley”
Johnny’s mother nods her head yes. She rose from the floor meeting the doctor.
“Your husband almost didn’t make it. He is in stable condition as of now. His injuries are serious but it seems as though he will pull through. You will be able to see him shortly although he is heavily sedated at the moment and may not be responsive.”
The doctor walked away and Johnny’s mother hit her knees once more.
“They both prayed, thank you Father for this miracle. I will never forget what you have done for us.”
Johnny thought back to Sarah and Elisa. If he would have never overheard Elisa’s prayer he might not have ever known of the God who cares about all of His creations. He might now have ever prayed the prayer that he believed saved his Father’s life and brought his mother before God. Johnny couldn’t wait to tell Sarah and Elisa about his miracle and how God answered his prayer.

I was inspired to write this story by my oldest daughter. We were at a small local eatery waiting on our order. She noticed a painting of Jesus hanging on the wall and asked to move a chair beneath it so she could “set with God” while we waited. At first I was going to object but the wholesomeness made me oblige. What was the harm in moving a chair anyways? I would put it back once she was finished. After a few minutes she hopped up and began playing with the toys provided by the restaurant. She decided to bring the fun to her older brother, so she ran to him with a toy in hand. As they were playing together a man walked through the door, I got the vibes that he was out of town. I took note of his hat that said Jesus’s name as well as the hefty Bible he carried with him. When he spoke to the restaurant owner, he solidified my perception. His accent was definitely not from my town and most likely not even my country. The man sat his stuff down on a nearby table, awaiting his food. Next he removed his hat and set it atop his belongings. To my surprise, he approached the chair my daughter had set below Jesus just moments before and used it as a makeshift altar. I looked away not wanting to draw attention during his private moment and happened to catch my daughter’s eye. She never said a word but her smile and eyes said it all. My heart overflowed with emotions. What if he asked God for a place to pray. What if that was exactly what the man needed at that moment and God used my daughter to do it. What if I stopped my daughter from moving the chair? I often forget that my children can and will have a profound effect on people. I forgot that them just being who they are will shine a Godly light into this world. I forgot that tiny voices can make big waves. I am one proud momma of children rooted deeply in God’s grace.

My Innards

What’s your favorite thing about yourself?

What is my favorite thing about myself? My big heart. Its large enough to fit the whole entire world, though few ever get the pleasureto see within.

Remedy for Withdrawal Symptoms

Remedy for withdrawal symptoms for nicotine, alcohol and caffeine, does well for nerve pain as well.

Ingredients needed:

1/2 tbs Valerian Root Tincture

1 tbs Milky Oat Tincture

1/2 tbs St. John’s Wort Tincture

1/2 tbs Passionflower Tincture

1/2 tbs Skullcap Leaves

Instructions: 1. Combine ingredients.

Dosage: 2-5 full droppers a day.

Notes:

If you’re a recovering alcoholic, use a glycerite instead of alcohol in your tincture.

Let’s break down each ingredient and its benefits:

*Valerian Root Tincture: Calming the Storm*
Valerian root is a natural tranquilizer, renowned for its ability to soothe the nervous system. Its active compounds interact with the body’s GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. This makes it an excellent addition to our withdrawal symptom formula, as it can help alleviate the jitteriness, irritability, and restlessness often associated with quitting smoking, alcohol, or caffeine. By calming the nervous system, valerian root tincture enables individuals to better cope with the physical and emotional challenges of withdrawal.

*Milky Oat Tincture: Nourishing the Nervous System*
Milky oat tincture is a nervine tonic, rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds that nourish and protect the nervous system. Its soothing properties can help calm the body’s stress response, reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation. Milky oat tincture is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing nerve pain, anxiety, or feelings of overwhelm during the withdrawal process. By supporting the nervous system, it helps the body adapt to the absence of the substance, promoting a smoother transition to a healthier lifestyle.

*St. John’s Wort Tincture: Mood Support*
St. John’s Wort is a natural mood stabilizer, traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Its active compounds, including hyperforin and hypericin, work synergistically to regulate mood and emotional well-being. During withdrawal, individuals often experience mood swings, irritability, and depression. St. John’s Wort tincture can help mitigate these symptoms, promoting a more balanced emotional state and reducing the risk of relapse. Its mood-supporting properties also make it beneficial for individuals experiencing nerve pain, which can be exacerbated by emotional distress.

*Passionflower Tincture: Anxiety and Insomnia Relief*
Passionflower is a natural anxiolytic, renowned for its ability to calm the mind and body. Its flavonoids and alkaloids interact with the body’s GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Passionflower tincture is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing anxiety, insomnia, or restlessness during withdrawal. By calming the nervous system, it can help individuals fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up feeling refreshed and renewed. Its anxiolytic properties also make it an excellent addition to our formula, reducing the emotional turmoil often associated with withdrawal.

*Skullcap Leaves: Nervine Tonic and Anti-Anxiety*
Skullcap is a nervine tonic, rich in flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that soothe the nervous system. Its anti-anxiety properties make it an excellent addition to our formula, reducing feelings of stress, anxiety, and overwhelm. Skullcap leaves can help calm the body’s stress response, promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation. Its benefits extend to nerve pain relief, making it a valuable ingredient for individuals experiencing neuropathic discomfort during withdrawal. By supporting the nervous system, skullcap leaves enable individuals to better cope with the physical and emotional challenges of withdrawal, promoting a smoother recovery.

Together, these ingredients work synergistically to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, nerve pain, and emotional distress, supporting individuals on their journey towards a healthier, substance-free lifestyle.

I am not a doctor, only an avid reader who believes God gave us a lot of natural resources to take care of ourselves. Please do your own research and seek a second opinion. This is not medical advice.

Daily Bible Study #114

Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)
Ephesians 6:2 KJV
https://bible-strong.app

Ephesians 6
1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

2 Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)

3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

5 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;

6 Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;

7 With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men:

8 Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.

9 And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

21 But that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things:

22 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that ye might know our affairs, and that he might comfort your hearts.

23 Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

24 Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.

To the Ephesians written from Rome, by Tychicus.

Source https://kingjames.bible

As always thanks for reading and God bless.

Numbers 10:29-11:25, In-depth Study

Numbers 10:29

29 And Moses said unto Hobab, the son of Raguel the Midianite, Moses’ father in law, We are journeying unto the place of which the LORD said, I will give it you: come thou with us, and we will do thee good: for the LORD hath spoken good concerning Israel.

30 And he said unto him, I will not go; but I will depart to mine own land, and to my kindred.

31 And he said, Leave us not, I pray thee; forasmuch as thou knowest how we are to encamp in the wilderness, and thou mayest be to us instead of eyes.

32 And it shall be, if thou go with us, yea, it shall be, that what goodness the LORD shall do unto us, the same will we do unto thee.

33 And they departed from the mount of the LORD three days’ journey: and the ark of the covenant of the LORD went before them in the three days’ journey, to search out a resting place for them.

34 And the cloud of the LORD was upon them by day, when they went out of the camp.

35 And it came to pass, when the ark set forward, that Moses said, Rise up, LORD, and let thine enemies be scattered; and let them that hate thee flee before thee.

36 And when it rested, he said, Return, O LORD, unto the many thousands of Israel.

Numbers 11
1 And when the people complained, it displeased the LORD: and the LORD heard it; and his anger was kindled; and the fire of the LORD burnt among them, and consumed them that were in the uttermost parts of the camp.

2 And the people cried unto Moses; and when Moses prayed unto the LORD, the fire was quenched.

3 And he called the name of the place Taberah: because the fire of the LORD burnt among them.

4 And the mixt multitude that was among them fell a lusting: and the children of Israel also wept again, and said, Who shall give us flesh to eat?

5 We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlick:

6 But now our soul is dried away: there is nothing at all, beside this manna, before our eyes.

7 And the manna was as coriander seed, and the colour thereof as the colour of bdellium.

8 And the people went about, and gathered it, and ground it in mills, or beat it in a mortar, and baked it in pans, and made cakes of it: and the taste of it was as the taste of fresh oil.

9 And when the dew fell upon the camp in the night, the manna fell upon it.

10 Then Moses heard the people weep throughout their families, every man in the door of his tent: and the anger of the LORD was kindled greatly; Moses also was displeased.

11 And Moses said unto the LORD, Wherefore hast thou afflicted thy servant? and wherefore have I not found favour in thy sight, that thou layest the burden of all this people upon me?

12 Have I conceived all this people? have I begotten them, that thou shouldest say unto me, Carry them in thy bosom, as a nursing father beareth the sucking child, unto the land which thou swarest unto their fathers?

13 Whence should I have flesh to give unto all this people? for they weep unto me, saying, Give us flesh, that we may eat.

14 I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me.

15 And if thou deal thus with me, kill me, I pray thee, out of hand, if I have found favour in thy sight; and let me not see my wretchedness.

16 And the LORD said unto Moses, Gather unto me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom thou knowest to be the elders of the people, and officers over them; and bring them unto the tabernacle of the congregation, that they may stand there with thee.

17 And I will come down and talk with thee there: and I will take of the spirit which is upon thee, and will put it upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee, that thou bear it not thyself alone.

18 And say thou unto the people, Sanctify yourselves against to morrow, and ye shall eat flesh: for ye have wept in the ears of the LORD, saying, Who shall give us flesh to eat? for it was well with us in Egypt: therefore the LORD will give you flesh, and ye shall eat.

19 Ye shall not eat one day, nor two days, nor five days, neither ten days, nor twenty days;

20 But even a whole month, until it come out at your nostrils, and it be loathsome unto you: because that ye have despised the LORD which is among you, and have wept before him, saying, Why came we forth out of Egypt?

21 And Moses said, The people, among whom I am, are six hundred thousand footmen; and thou hast said, I will give them flesh, that they may eat a whole month.

22 Shall the flocks and the herds be slain for them, to suffice them? or shall all the fish of the sea be gathered together for them, to suffice them?

23 And the LORD said unto Moses, Is the LORD’S hand waxed short? thou shalt see now whether my word shall come to pass unto thee or not.

24 And Moses went out, and told the people the words of the LORD, and gathered the seventy men of the elders of the people, and set them round about the tabernacle.

25 And the LORD came down in a cloud, and spake unto him, and took of the spirit that was upon him, and gave it unto the seventy elders: and it came to pass, that, when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied, and did not cease.

That concludes today’s lesson. Join me tomorrow as we continue the book of Numbers

Stud Muffin

Stud muffin, an absolute stud muffin. George admires himself in the mirror. His big strong arms, broad and defined. His beard hugged his chiseled jawline. His tall bulky body resembles his father’s. He flexes his arms causing his biceps to pop out further and then turns his body to see his back side. Pleased with himself, he straightens his hat and descends the stairs of his huge three story house.
At the bottom he is greeted by Amelia.
“Good morning, beautiful.”
“Good morning daddy.”

He lifts the little girl gleefully into the air
causing her to scream in delight. With a kiss to the top of her head he lowers back to the floor. He watches blissfully as she waddles away.

George continues to the kitchen to greet his son and wife. Jr is at the kitchen table enjoying a smorgasbord breakfast. He joins in, quickly devouring his favorites, pancakes, eggs, bacon, and sausage. He savors a cup of coffee and fills a travel cup for later.

Sitting back in his chair satisfied, he admires his wife. Her beautiful blond hair that’s just like his mother’s, sharp blue eyes that can see a person’s soul. Always attentive to his needs and nurturing to the children. How lucky he is to have such a beautiful family, how blessed to have such a lavish home.

With longing in his heart he kisses each one goodbye and goes to work. “A man’s gotta do what a man’s gotta do.” That’s what his daddy always tells him, and a man has to provide for his family. He grabs the lunch his wife prepared earlier that morning and heads to work.

Third generation truck driver and proud of it. A man can learn a lot about himself when he’s all alone on the road, his daddy always said. When the only company you have is yourself you have plenty of time to take a good long look at yourself. Some men can hack it, some can’t.

Excitement bubbles inside of him as he steps up inside the big rig. He slides into the captain seat and places his lunch pail on the passenger side. He grips the steering wheel with both hands and bounces in the seat. With a turn of a key and shift of a gear, away he goes down the road to the delivery point.

This time he is carrying a whole truck load of LEGOs to the local orphanage. Each set a perfect little gift for a sad lonely child in need of a little joy. He pulls up to the large brick building and aligns his truck up to the base of the crane. He climbs down from the semi truck and up into the derrick deck.

He maneuvers the crane to pick up the packages one by one and stacks them in front of the waiting children as they cheer him along. When he is finished, each one grabs a box and rushes back inside. George chuckles at the thought of by morning time the walls will be bursting with LEGO creations and smiling faces.

With a wave goodbye to the few children that remain he climbs back into his truck and starts onto the road once again.
His next stop is along a river front to enjoy the lunch his lovely wife made for him. While eating he calls home to his family.
“Hello dear, how is your day going?”
“My day is going great Georgie, how is your day?”
“Another wonderful day of delivering toys to needy children. Next I will be taking a load of vegetables to the supermarket.”
” How exciting!”
” How are the children?”
” They are well, missing you of course.”
” Yes of course. As always I will be home for dinner. Can you make my favorite tonight please.”
” Meat loaf for dinner it will be. Don’t forget we are going to the beach this weekend, the whole family.”
“ How could I forget, I’ve been looking forward to it for weeks! I have to go now dear. I will see you shortly.”

George hangs up the phone as he takes the last bite of his peanut butter and jelly sandwich. He types in his destination into his navigation and pulls back onto the road. One load of fruit and veggies to the supermarket and his day is done. On the way home he stops to treat himself with a chocolate milkshake after a hard day’s work.

The weekend rolls around and he spends the day at the beach with his family. Little Amilia pitter patters around playing in the sand biking castles while Jr splashes in the waves. Darlene and George sit on the beach blanket wrapped up in each other’s arms and enjoying each other’s company.

He loves little moments like these, when the kids are smiling and so is his lovely wife. He blinks and he’s back at home, the day drawing to an end. With a kiss goodnight and a long bed time story, each child is tucked into their beds for the night. He silently closes the door behind him and he exits their rooms.

The next morning he rises early to plan for the day. Today he is going skydiving for the first time ever! He grabs a quick cup of coffee and a piece of toast and he heads out the door. His belly rumbles for something more but food and skydiving rarely go well together. He jumps into his jeep wrangler and drives it to the airport some thirty miles away. Next he climbs aboard a twin engine plane and is greeted by the pilot.
“ Hi my name is Max, I will be your instructor today. First let’s get your parachute on you.”
George steps forward as Max places the heavy book bag on his back and connects the straps around his legs and mid sections. “Once you jump, count to 20 and pull this cord. Counting ensures you are far enough away from the engines that it won’t suck you in. Something along those lines will be certain death. If you wait too long to pull the cord you will likely die on impact. If that parachute fails you have a back up right here.” Max pointed to a little orange rope tethered to the shoulder strap. “When landing, do a parachute landing fall, touch down on the balls of your feet, then shift your weight to your calves, outer thighs, and back. This maneuver helps absorb impact. Or you can tuck and roll but I’ve seen attempts at that maneuver not go so well for beginners. Instead of rolling they just kind of stick. Avoid looking directly down at the ground as this will cause it to appear as if the ground is speeding toward you quicker than it really is. Look at about 45 degrees up from the ground and it will be a smoother ride. You ready?”

George shakes his head yes and propels himself out of the plane. Butterflies swirl in his stomach as he glides through the air. One alligator, two alligators, three alligators. He counts all the way to 30 and pulls the cord on his parachute. The air catches it as it unravels and tugs him upward for a moment.

A birds eye view awestruck George as he soaks in the scenery. Everything looks so small and hardly recognizable. His jeep is all but a little yellow speck on the ground. The row of corn fields he passed on the way here appears to be meat blades of grass. The roadway is a tiny thin line drawn on the landscape.

Locking his eyes at roughly 45 degrees
George repeats Max’s instructions on his head and prepares for landing. The balls of his feet touch down and he shifts his weight to spread out the impact. Just like he had seen in the movies he lands gracefully and guides his parachute to the ground behind him.

“Earth to Georgie, Earth to Georgie, come to Georgie, it’s time to leave the imagination station and come for lunch.” George’s mother says.
” Aww man.” George replies as he climbs out of the cardboard box. He follows her to this kitchen and sits down at the table to enjoy his favorite lunch, peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
“ Where did you travel today?”
” I was skydiving in Ohio.”
“ Ohio, wow, how fascinating. I think I would be too scared to skydive. What was it like?”
” It’s a piece of cake.” George repeats the instructions Max gave him.” It was exhilarating.”
She smiles at the little 8 year old before her and marvels at his creativity. He has managed to travel the whole world without ever leaving the living room.

The End

Number 9:17-10:28, In-depth Study

Welcome back to our In-depth Bible Study. I pray that each reader receives the message that God would want them to receive. May they have listening ears and eyes that see. God bless!

Numbers 9:17

17 And when the cloud was taken up from the tabernacle, then after that the children of Israel journeyed: and in the place where the cloud abode, there the children of Israel pitched their tents.

18 At the commandment of the LORD the children of Israel journeyed, and at the commandment of the LORD they pitched: as long as the cloud abode upon the tabernacle they rested in their tents.

19 And when the cloud tarried long upon the tabernacle many days, then the children of Israel kept the charge of the LORD, and journeyed not.

20 And so it was, when the cloud was a few days upon the tabernacle; according to the commandment of the LORD they abode in their tents, and according to the commandment of the LORD they journeyed.

21 And so it was, when the cloud abode from even unto the morning, and that the cloud was taken up in the morning, then they journeyed: whether it was by day or by night that the cloud was taken up, they journeyed.

22 Or whether it were two days, or a month, or a year, that the cloud tarried upon the tabernacle, remaining thereon, the children of Israel abode in their tents, and journeyed not: but when it was taken up, they journeyed.

23 At the commandment of the LORD they rested in the tents, and at the commandment of the LORD they journeyed: they kept the charge of the LORD, at the commandment of the LORD by the hand of Moses.

Numbers 10
1 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

2 Make thee two trumpets of silver; of a whole piece shalt thou make them: that thou mayest use them for the calling of the assembly, and for the journeying of the camps.

3 And when they shall blow with them, all the assembly shall assemble themselves to thee at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.

4 And if they blow but with one trumpet, then the princes, which are heads of the thousands of Israel, shall gather themselves unto thee.

5 When ye blow an alarm, then the camps that lie on the east parts shall go forward.

6 When ye blow an alarm the second time, then the camps that lie on the south side shall take their journey: they shall blow an alarm for their journeys.

7 But when the congregation is to be gathered together, ye shall blow, but ye shall not sound an alarm.

8 And the sons of Aaron, the priests, shall blow with the trumpets; and they shall be to you for an ordinance for ever throughout your generations.

9 And if ye go to war in your land against the enemy that oppresseth you, then ye shall blow an alarm with the trumpets; and ye shall be remembered before the LORD your God, and ye shall be saved from your enemies.

10 Also in the day of your gladness, and in your solemn days, and in the beginnings of your months, ye shall blow with the trumpets over your burnt offerings, and over the sacrifices of your peace offerings; that they may be to you for a memorial before your God: I am the LORD your God.

11 And it came to pass on the twentieth day of the second month, in the second year, that the cloud was taken up from off the tabernacle of the testimony.

12 And the children of Israel took their journeys out of the wilderness of Sinai; and the cloud rested in the wilderness of Paran.

13 And they first took their journey according to the commandment of the LORD by the hand of Moses.

14 In the first place went the standard of the camp of the children of Judah according to their armies: and over his host was Nahshon the son of Amminadab.

15 And over the host of the tribe of the children of Issachar was Nethaneel the son of Zuar.

16 And over the host of the tribe of the children of Zebulun was Eliab the son of Helon.

17 And the tabernacle was taken down; and the sons of Gershon and the sons of Merari set forward, bearing the tabernacle.

18 And the standard of the camp of Reuben set forward according to their armies: and over his host was Elizur the son of Shedeur.

19 And over the host of the tribe of the children of Simeon was Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.

20 And over the host of the tribe of the children of Gad was Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

21 And the Kohathites set forward, bearing the sanctuary: and the other did set up the tabernacle against they came.

22 And the standard of the camp of the children of Ephraim set forward according to their armies: and over his host was Elishama the son of Ammihud.

23 And over the host of the tribe of the children of Manasseh was Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.

24 And over the host of the tribe of the children of Benjamin was Abidan the son of Gideoni.

25 And the standard of the camp of the children of Dan set forward, which was the rereward of all the camps throughout their hosts: and over his host was Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai.

26 And over the host of the tribe of the children of Asher was Pagiel the son of Ocran.

27 And over the host of the tribe of the children of Naphtali was Ahira the son of Enan.

28 Thus were the journeyings of the children of Israel according to their armies, when they set forward.

That concludes our lesson for today, come back tomorrow as we work our way through the book of Numbers. God bless.

Daily Bible Study #113

A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.
Psalms 68:5 KJV
https://bible-strong.app

Psalms 68
To the chief Musician, A Psalm or Song of David.

1 Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before him.

2 As smoke is driven away, so drive them away: as wax melteth before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God.

3 But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice.

4 Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him.

5 A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.

6 God setteth the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains: but the rebellious dwell in a dry land.

7 O God, when thou wentest forth before thy people, when thou didst march through the wilderness; Selah:

8 The earth shook, the heavens also dropped at the presence of God: even Sinai itself was moved at the presence of God, the God of Israel.

9 Thou, O God, didst send a plentiful rain, whereby thou didst confirm thine inheritance, when it was weary.

10 Thy congregation hath dwelt therein: thou, O God, hast prepared of thy goodness for the poor.

11 The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.

12 Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil.

13 Though ye have lien among the pots, yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold.

14 When the Almighty scattered kings in it, it was white as snow in Salmon.

15 The hill of God is as the hill of Bashan; an high hill as the hill of Bashan.

16 Why leap ye, ye high hills? this is the hill which God desireth to dwell in; yea, the LORD will dwell in it for ever.

17 The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels: the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place.

18 Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them.

19 Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.

20 He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death.

21 But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses.

22 The Lord said, I will bring again from Bashan, I will bring my people again from the depths of the sea:

23 That thy foot may be dipped in the blood of thine enemies, and the tongue of thy dogs in the same.

24 They have seen thy goings, O God; even the goings of my God, my King, in the sanctuary.

25 The singers went before, the players on instruments followed after; among them were the damsels playing with timbrels.

26 Bless ye God in the congregations, even the Lord, from the fountain of Israel.

27 There is little Benjamin with their ruler, the princes of Judah and their council, the princes of Zebulun, and the princes of Naphtali.

28 Thy God hath commanded thy strength: strengthen, O God, that which thou hast wrought for us.

29 Because of thy temple at Jerusalem shall kings bring presents unto thee.

30 Rebuke the company of spearmen, the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people, till every one submit himself with pieces of silver: scatter thou the people that delight in war.

31 Princes shall come out of Egypt; Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God.

32 Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth; O sing praises unto the Lord; Selah:

33 To him that rideth upon the heavens of heavens, which were of old; lo, he doth send out his voice, and that a mighty voice.

34 Ascribe ye strength unto God: his excellency is over Israel, and his strength is in the clouds.

35 O God, thou art terrible out of thy holy places: the God of Israel is he that giveth strength and power unto his people. Blessed be God.

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