Psalm 120-122
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you.” (122:6)
It seems to me that even unbelievers would have to notice the anomaly which exists with Israel. This is a sign of God’s faithfulness and the truth of His Word.
We are in the New Covenant now, and Jesus is the Way for everyone – even the Jews. However, God’s covenants will not be broken, and the Jews still have a special place with God because of his covenant with Abraham.
In Matthew 24:32 Jesus says to “learn from the parable of the fig tree: when its branch has already become tender, and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. Even so you too, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door.”
The fig tree in New Testament times represented the nation of Israel, and it’s budding was a sign of the end times coming. Throughout the Word there are references to the day when Jews would be gathered from the four corners of the earth to return to their own land.
With all of this in mind, it makes the return of the Jews and the re-founding of Israel in 1948 easily recognizable as a modern-day miracle. And beyond that, think of how that tiny nation, in the midst of adversarial nations all around, has survived – and thrived. Indeed it’s a miracle that the whole world pays attention to such a small nation. The hand of God is clearly on that nation.
So where does that leave the rest of us? As for me, I plan to support Israel with prayers and my vote. Anyone who tries to disavow that special nation may find themselves in trouble with God. In fact, I believe that one reason our nation has thrived has been because of our standing with Israel all of these years.
Let’s don’t stop that now. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem – and prosper.
I Corinthians 9
“I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means win some.”(V.22)
Paul’s mission to take the gospel to all men is a passion that consumes him. Unlike other ministers, Paul doesn’t even expect to receive the normal amount of pay for his work. He wants no one to discredit the gospel because of his attitude. Therefore, he earns his living through the making of tents so that the gospel will be preached free to all.
Further, Paul tries to relate to all of those to whom he is ministering. To the Jews he becomes as a Jew. To those who are not under the law, he becomes as one not under the law. As he relates to all men the best that he knows how, more can receive from him. He knows how to bring the message in a way that it is palatable to each one.
He is truly “running the race in such a way that he may win.”
I like that phrase, and want my own life to line up that way. I’m sure that you do also. We have aim and we have purpose. God’s purpose.
Let’s run the race God has put before us with vigor and a determination to win. We all have a great prize ahead of us if we do!
