by Whitey | May 21, 2011 | Thoughts, Uncategorized
In this passage God gives instructions on how to deal with the passing of a man who leaves no sons behind to inherit his property. In the specific case mentioned, the property goes to his daughters. Looking at it from a modern mindset, it doesn’t seem like that big of a deal. But at that time it would have been, as women — especially young, single ones — did not have much status in the eyes of society as a whole.
Again and again in Scripture, we see God looking taking care of the “little guy.” People like widows, orphans, foreigners and others, whom society would have neglected, abandoned or abused. God cares for “the least of these,” as Jesus called the hungry, thirsty, poor and imprisoned.
And those of us who follow Christ should care for them as well. In fact, spiritually speaking, we’ve all been “the least of these,” in one way or another, at some time in our lives. We all need God’s grace. Let’s be sure to not only receive, but to share it as well.
by Whitey | May 17, 2011 | Thoughts, Uncategorized
“God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. Has he ever spoken and failed to act? Has he ever promised and not carried it through?” (Numbers 23:19)
This verse reminds me that I can trust God. Life’s unanswered questions, desires and fears make it hard to see sometimes. Sometimes the wait is long. But God is faithful. Keep waiting.
by Whitey | May 17, 2011 | Uncategorized, Videos
[vimeo http://www.vimeo.com/33327951 w=500&h=281]
まつり – Matsuri: Scenes from a local festival from Robin White on Vimeo.
by Whitey | May 16, 2011 | Thoughts, Uncategorized
“He answered, ‘Must I not speak what the Lord puts in my mouth?'” (Numbers 23:12)
Balaam’s example here is a great challenge to those of us in ministry. He was offered a huge reward to curse Israel, but here refuses to speak anything that is not from the Lord. Instead, he will only say what God commands him to say.
As a missionary, am I that in tune with God’s will for what He wants to say and do through me? In my teaching, preaching and leading, do I listen for His voice or go with my own feelings? Am I willing to follow His leading no matter what the cost, or do give in to outside pressure?
Lord, help me to be faithful to the call You’ve placed on my life. Help me to hear Your voice clearly, and give me the courage to follow. Help me be more bold for You.
by Whitey | May 14, 2011 | Thoughts, Uncategorized
“The angel of the LORD asked him, ‘Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? I have come here to oppose you because your path is a reckless one before me. The donkey saw me and turned away from me these three times. If it had not turned away, I would certainly have killed you by now, but I would have spared it.'”
I wonder how often God tries to warn us, but like Balaam we don’t see it. How often do we find ourselves on “reckless paths” but not realize it until it’s too late? We fall into sin and act like it was inevitable; but if we’d been paying attention, we’d have seen the Lord’s warning signs.
Father, help me to be sensitive to Your Spirit today, to hear Your voice, to heed Your warnings. Give me the grace to follow Your path today.
