100 x 3
Today’s Reading: Judges 7
Click scripture link to read online or HERE to listen online (then click the symbol of the audio speaker above the scripture portion on the right-hand side).
This view from Mount Tabor looks across the Jezreel Valley towards Mount Moreh. The tree-covered hill in the distance is where the Midianites encamped for their attack on the Israelites in the days of Gideon (Judges 7:1).
GOOGLE MAPS – To see where the photo was taken, click HERE.
Key Verse: Judges 7:20
Then the three companies blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers–they held the torches in their left hands and the trumpets in their right hands for blowing–and they cried, “The sword of the Lord and of Gideon!”
In today’s reading there is an unmistakable geographical description of the very spot where, 3,400 years ago, God separated the army of 300 from the multitude at the Spring of Harod. The 300, having circled around the Midianite army, descended the hill of Moreh to break their pitchers, shine their lights, and blow their ram’s horns, creating panic in the ranks of the enemy. By dividing the 300 into 3 companies of 100 each, they were able to come from three different directions and win a God-given victory. Many of us who read this blog are members of churches that may have from 50 to 300 in regular attendance. The Pastor likely knows everyone by name, including the children. There is wisdom in having many churches, rather than one mega-congregation with several thousand members. Yes, there is a special appeal in the large church…great music, a well-prepared staff, and sometimes a large missions budget. The Pastor may be the most gifted preacher in the area. However, we need to recognize that the smaller congregations have much to offer also. The Pastor will visit you personally when you are sick (if he doesn’t, find one that will). He will know you personally and thus will be able to care for each member individually, that is if he or she is truly God-called and totally committed, as were the 300, watching, on guard, and filled with God’s Spirit.
PRAYER FOR TODAY:
Lord Jesus, You know Your sheep by name. You know my name, and the names of all who join me in daily readings. You’ve called into ministry pastors, teachers, evangelists, administrators, and helps in many areas of life. Please show me how to be a strength to those who care for my soul. I ask for the grace of loyalty to the congregation where I serve and worship. Bless those who prepare the spiritual food of Your Word and serve good nourishment at Sunday services, as well as at mid-week services and other gatherings. Amen!
100 PERSONAL WORDS:
Being retired (sort of), I have the opportunity of attending a relatively small congregation in Canada and a very large one while in Florida. I see the blessings of both large and small. I love and am blessed by both churches. I remember well, while a student in Bible College, one of the teachers pointing to two Toronto churches which, in his estimation, were “successful.” I couldn’t let the occasion pass without pointing out that the Pastor and congregation in Moose Factory, an island at the tip of James Bay, was just as successful. True success is being in God’s will and is not measured in numbers.
Yours for the One who said, “I will build My church,” God’s great success story!
David
Excellent points made about large and small churches
The first time we, (my husband & I), visited a large church in Etobicoke, Ontario, we were invited to an after church small group visit @ the pastot’s house that same evening! We had just moved into the area. David & Norma-Jean were there also. We attended that church for over 10 years before moving to Burlington. A truly Spirit-filled church.
Yesterday a number of you said you contacted your government representatives regarding marriage. I ask you to please continue to do so for other issues too. I have worked both federal and provincial offices for many years and it is important we as Christians state our case – and more important that we pray daily for God’s guidnance in their lives and their researchers and assistants.
Bless all of you for your daily input – so uplifting
Thank you Vivian for your advice in encouraging all of us to speak up for what matters.
May we (the church of Jesus Christ) be bold and courageous and not stand silently when the Will of the Lord is being disregarded and disrespected.
I agree with David. Both big and small congregations have their importance. May we all flourish where we are planted!
Wishing all saints a blessed day!
Amen!
I knew this was about the US when I wrote it (and grew to believe it was pointing at Trump.) but it also applies to all nations in their apostasy.We need to get back to the ‘old ways’.
Under God
One nation under God that denies Me,
Will fall apart and be devoured,
If you refuse my love that’s free,
As if I am something now soured.
Your enemies have delivered my warning,
Therefore turn back to find truth,
For the wolves only bring mourning
From the sacrifice of your youth.
Greed is now what too many now preach,
For the demon has reached within,
But you can still change to teach,
So the children may turn from sin.
If you allow the wolves in their power,
To consume with endless thirst,
Then you are guilty at this hour
In helping bring about the worst.
So remove the wolves behind the crown,
For they are deeply entrenched,
And let them and their filth drown
As my laws are tightly clenched.
G W (Bill) Marshall / 11/09/2013
Some of my family who are dedicated sincere christians, are Americans, live in the USA, and are very strong supporters
of president Trump!
I love them all Anne. So nice to hear of supporters of Pres. Trump. He’s sensible and such a good leader. If God can forgive Paul (or any of us who lack no sin) He can forgive Donald Trump. God bless you and yours dear sister in Christ.
Good advice concerning our government leaders. I have one on my fb and he is standing for the truth and I encourage him to do so. Today one of my grandnieces is getting married and that rejoices my heart. Continue to give us marriages in our families and not the other Lord and may they last and bring forth fruit for your glory! When my mother was living we attended many weddings and we need restoration. Enjoyed reading all the posts!
May God bless your grandniece’s marriage, Ger!
If you are attending, I pray you will have a very enjoyable time!
God bless you!
Amen Luisa , and all others who commented yesterday and today. We must all stand up for what is right. God Bless everyone. Eleanor M.
Amen, Ger. Congratulations to your grand-niece.
A number of years ago I wasconcerned about the numbers in our church
were deminishing … When I heard the Lord speaking to my inner Spirit
very loud and clear … I AM not interested in numbers but in the hearts
of men… I felt comforted by Gods comforting words….I will never forget
His words to me.. I learned a big Lesson from HIM>>>R Henning….
Blessings on both small and large congregations, church services held by small congregations in senior’s retirement homes . These services are held as non-sectarian and held every second and last week of every month. Love and care is shown by the home church as children,young adults,and parents by their attendance, their warmth and God’s Infinite love for everyone. May many souls be brought to Christ Jesus , as I am sure there are many seniors who need to have a personal relationship with HIM.
Stunning photo today. Enjoyed the scripture, message, prayer and comments.
Stay blessed, fellow saints in the Lord! Jesus loves you!!
“For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” Revelation 7:17 ESV
Since Your Love (ft. Brandon Hampton)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWYO7IbK0L8