I was reading a book last night by Dr.Amy-Jill Levine. It was sent to me and I’m going to be writing a blog review for it soon. Update: Here is a link to my review: The Difficult Words of Jesus. While Dr. Levine and I definitely have our theological differences, I was struck by one very simple, but poignant question she posed. The rich young ruler of the Gospels was so preoccupied with storing up treasures in both earth and heaven that he wanted to know what he had to do to inherit eternal life – so he could fill up his heavenly “vault,” as Levine put it. The question that sparked my interest was this: if you were in that situation, able to stop Jesus in His tracks to ask Him any question in the world, what would you ask? What would you say?

What would you ask Yeshua?

Would you ask Him what it takes to “earn” eternal life? Demand a heavenly inheritance? Plea for salvation? Would you humbly ask for a healing? Would you ask something deeply theological, or would you stick to something more temporal?

In 1 Kings, King Solomon has the opportunity to ask anything of God.

He could’ve asked for details about what happens in the next life or the world to come. But he asks for something quite unexpected, and much much different than the riches sought by the young ruler in the Gospel story.

The fact that the Eternal One directs Solomon to ask Him for something, to ask for anything at all is shocking.

It is shocking because it is unexpected, but it is also shocking because at the time, Solomon was walking in obvious disobedience.

King Solomon knew full well who God is, and his duty to honor the God of Israel as he ruled. After all, his father was King David who wrote most of the Psalms! Surely King Solomon had no excuse when he practiced idolatry and lustfully sought out his many wives. Solomon knew better than to worship pagan gods!

This Psalm, penned by King Solomon’s father, King David, speaks of the glorious ascent to the hill of YHVH.

“Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD?
Or who may stand in His holy place?
He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
Who has not lifted up his soul to an idol,
Nor sworn deceitfully.
He shall receive blessing from the LORD,
And righteousness from the God of his salvation.“

Psalm 24:3-5

It is certainly conceivable Solomon had his father’s words ringing in his ears as he

climbed up . . . not to a Holy Place, but to

the pagan

high place in Gibeon

to singe a thousand burnt offerings and incense.

On top of that, Shlomo (Solomon in Hebrew) had just married Pharaoh’s daughter. Shouldn’t he be feeling ashamed by now?

Many of us are well aware that Solomon’s foreign wives inspired him to pursue pagan practices. Yet even to this day Solomon is known for something else: his wisdom. God’s mercy, long-suffering, and patience really are remarkable.

What Solomon had in his favor is recorded in 1 Kings 3:3, “Solomon loved the LORD . . . “

Loving the LORD makes up the difference. His mercy endures forever.

On one particular trip up the Gibeon mountain, the trek plus the mountain air allowed Solomon to fall asleep that night. He probably didn’t have to count Israeli sheep in order to fall asleep. I imagine he fell into a fairly deep sleep just from the day’s activities.

The LORD Almighty, the Sovereign One, the Only True God, came to Solomon in a dream.

No messenger sent, no angel. God Himself appears to Solomon in the dream and says to him,

“Ask! What shall I give you?” (1 Kings 3:5)

Solomon burned sacrifices not to YHVH, but to false gods, in this very place. But to demonstrate His Omnipresence and Perfect Sovereignty, Adonai challenges Solomon to go ahead, ask for something.

A conversation King to king

Solomon is king (melech) of Israel and in a sense, the LORD is treating him that way. Being a king, surely Solomon was used to asking for things and getting them. There are no restrictions, there are no asterisks, no strings attached.

There are no limits because the LORD is God of the entire universe.

Any other supposed deity would have to place a limitation. A blue genie could get trapped in a bottle along with the three wishes he might be offering. A less-than-Almighty god would have to say:

“Ask for something within reason.”

“Please keep it under 100 shekels.”

“There will be a 10% service charge, which will be handled by your next tithe.”

Solomon is allowed to ask the LORD Most High for absolutely anything because He is able to do absolutely anything.

If you could ask God for anything, would you want jewels? tools?

If you were the king or queen of Israel, what would you want? More wealth and riches?

Solomon doesn’t ask for any of these things, not even a new pet camel.

“What do you want, Solomon, what should I give you?

King Solomon is ready to answer, but first he is sure to flatter YHVH a little. Smart thinking. Maybe he felt an extra need to show honor and deference to Elohim if he was laden with guilt from his unfaithfulness. That or, like a wife trying to butter up her husband to complete a honey-do list, first she reminds him how much she loves him, appreciates him, and couldn’t live without him. Right? 🙂

Solomon begins to praise God and thank Him for the kindness He has shown to his father David. Solomon acknowledges his immaturity and demonstrates humility (1 Kings 3:6-8). He expresses how he views the situation he lives in, this context of governance over a chosen, great, and numerous people.

Only after all of that does Solomon dare to say what he would like from God.

“Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?” 1 Kings 3:9, emphasis added

Understanding and discernment.

In other words, wisdom.

Notice, King Solomon never says “wisdom.” He only describes it.

In Hebrew, the word for wisdom is chokhmah, and it is not found anywhere in this text, even though traditionally wisdom has been ascribed to Solomon. The Proverbs attributed to Solomon, however, do employ this term frequently. Here in 1 Kings 3, a form of the word chokhmah is used, chakham, but only by God Himself. God answers Solomon’s request for understanding and discernment by calling it wisdom (chakham).

It is quite evident that King Solomon avoids using the word chokhmah or any form thereof in his request of God.

So we must ask the question: why?

Perhaps it can be dismissed as too much of a technicality, but I do believe there is more to it.

Solomon may have been hesitant to ask for wisdom because in the culture of his day, despite being a king, he was asking a lot.

As early as the writings of Job, Jewish tradition has always held that wisdom is costlier than gold and silver (Job 28:12-15).

Maybe he thought it was too much to ask.

Wisdom is also personified in Scripture, interpreted as a divine attribute of God and embodied by Messiah Himself. While Solomon did not yet know his Messiah, Wisdom Incarnate, he would have had reverence regarding the subject of God’s Wisdom.

He had mustered his courage, and this pleased the LORD.

The speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. Then God said to him: “Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked long life for yourself, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have asked the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice, behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you. And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days. So if you walk in My ways, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.”

1 Kings 3:10-14, NKJV, emphasis added

The LORD assures Solomon that he will give him wisdom and fame. He adds riches and honor to the package, but now He does add an asterisk:

“You will have all of this and a long life, if you walk in My ways as your father David did.”

God will hold King Solomon accountable – He wants Solomon to do what is right.

Solomon awakens from his dream, heads straight to Jerusalem to offer legitimate sacrifice there to Adonai, and holds a party for his servants (1 Kings 3:15).

“And God gave Solomon wisdom and exceedingly great understanding, and largeness of heart like the sand on the seashore.” 1 Kings 4:29

King Solomon had so many great achievements, most importantly, the construction of the Temple. He was known for his sayings and proverbs, his riches and influence. But despite all of that, his heart strayed from the LORD. Lust was in the family line, and he seems to have inherited a generational curse. Because Solomon continued in disobedience, the Lord assured him the kingdom would be torn away under the reign of his son and that is exactly what happened.

What would you ask Yeshua?

We are all given the opportunity to ask God anything because He has made a way for us through Messiah Yeshua (Jesus). He might not come to us in a dream, but He is willing to listen to us because of His amazing grace.

He may not give us exactly what we want, but we definitely have the opportunity to share our heart with Him and He knows our deepest desires. Next time you are in prayer, ask of Him, and I know He will answer you in love. Learn from Solomon’s mistakes: keep a repentant heart, and go after the things of God, not the ways of the world.

The Father sent His Son to die for you. He loves you. Surely it is not too much for you to ask for something that is weighing on your heart, if you ask in humility, it shall be done for you.

Are you able to have a conversation with the LORD?

Are you in relationship with Him?

If you are sincerely sorry for your sins and your mistakes and your character flaws that sometimes get the best of you . . . and you have decided that you will trust in Him to help you change and turn away from continuing in sin, and if you have accepted the Truth that Yeshua (Jesus) is the King of Israel and would like Him to be the King of your heart, then you absolutely can be in communion and conversation with Him. Nothing can separate you from His love – and Messiah Yeshua bridged the gap between sin and darkness to enable you to be able to trust Him today with your life and your salvation. Believe in Him, obey His Word, and do not be afraid to go to Him in prayer. He hears you when you pray!

I hope this blog post has encouraged you! Please leave a comment, and consider subscribing! And, if you’d like, let’s connect on social media! Find us on Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Shalom!

Yom Teruah is the day of the shout! The day to sound the shofars and remember that with a shout, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah will return for His people! It is the more “Biblical” term for what is more widely known as “Rosh Hashanah,” which means “Head of the year.” We celebrate a new year and we await Messiah’s return.

Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep,
but we shall all be changed—
in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye,
at the last shofar.
For the shofar will sound,
and the dead will be raised incorruptible,
and we will be changed.

1 Corinthians 15:51-52, TLV

I love to be able to share these Biblical feast days with my family, especially our children.

They love to sound the shofar and they eagerly pour honey on the apples they have freshly picked from our apple tree. Tonight, we will begin our celebration with a traditional brisket dinner.

Are you looking for an easy, delicious brisket recipe? Look no further! I have combined several recipes that have circulated recently and I think this is a real winner:

How will you celebrate this special day? Post your Rosh Hashanah pictures on our Facebook page!

Above all, may your year be sweet and the LORD be honored! Maranatha!

Shalom, mishpocha.

Parashat Ki Tavo 5781 B”H

The first part of Deuteronomy (Devarim) 28 is a favorite for many. And who wouldn’t like it?

” . . . all these blessings will come upon you and overtake you, if you listen to the voice of ADONAI your God . . . ” Deut.28:2

Blessings will abound! Blessed will you be in the city, in the field, your children, your land and produce, your flock (verses 3-6). Your enemies will flee from you! (v.7) You will lend and not borrow, you will be the head and not the tail (v.12, 13).

What’s not to like?

Certainly all of us who claim to love Adonai resonate with these promises. Surely, we are established as His holy people (v.9) and surely we walk in His ways. Right?

“Then all the peoples of the earth will see that you are called by the name of ADONAI and they will stand in awe of you.” Deut. 28:10

Ok, now the pride meter might be rising.

“Everyone will be in awe of us.”

“We are His people, and we cannot fail.”

Uh oh. We may be getting on a slippery slope, my friends.

Blessings require us to LISTEN and to OBEY

These blessings are contingent upon consistent relationship with the Holy One of Israel. These blessings don’t just come because we have professed faith. These blessings require us to constantly LISTEN to what His Spirit is saying and obey what is written in His Word.

It is only natural for us to dwell on the things we like and try not to think about the stuff that we don’t. But we are not called to be natural, we are called to be spiritual.

Many believers know parts of Deuteronomy 28 very well – but if you check closely, those commonly cited passages are all found in the first 14 verses of the chapter.

I don’t hear anyone talking about the curses! And understandably so . . . they are overwhelming! Terrifying. But we must acknowledge the reality that there are REAL curses that DO afflict those who choose to disobey God.

There are 69 verses in Deuteronomy 28, not just 14. MOST of those verses describe the destruction that will come to those who turn from ADONAI’S instructions.

Most people are concentrating on only 20% of the entire chapter. Most of us are ignoring 80% of Deuteronomy 28.

www.Adonaishalom.com

BUT THERE IS HOPE!

The curse of sin and death has been broken.

But if we do not understand what we have been saved from, we are missing half of that very blessing. Also, if we do not understand that sanctification is an ongoing process and that we either invite blessing or demise into our lives based on our choices (even after receiving salvation) we are prone to confusion and a less dynamic understanding of the relationship we hold as children of the Most High God.

THE CURSES ACTUALLY REVEAL HOW AMAZING LIVING UNDER BLESSING REALLY IS

You don’t have to live under any curse. You have the choice to follow the Savior, who chooses to bless us when we repent and reject a cursed life of sin and death.

How great a salvation! We were destined for curse but the Son of God, Yeshua ha Mashiach (Jesus the Christ) came to earth, died for our transgressions, our failings, and our disobedience, so that we may have life eternal if we believe in His Name.

We must confess that He alone is Lord and follow His ways.

www.adonaishalom.com

The curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28:15ff are so horrific that it just makes me think of just how awesome the gift of salvation truly is. We have been saved from terror, a hopeless, despairing future and so freely given love, security, and peace – the shalom that surpasses all understanding. So many people fear “keeping Torah,” citing legalism and claiming irrelevance, but if only they would understand how Torah illuminates what pleases God and rather than bind us, it frees us to more fully understand the richness of our salvation!

So let’s commit ourselves to reading the entirety of the Bible, not just the parts we like.

Because even in those passages that seem so difficult or even dreadful to read . . . – even there in the depths, we can find the glimmer of the Gospel. He has given us hope and a future, so let’s learn and study the whole Word so we can step into our callings as ambassadors for His glorious Truth.

Shalom!

Be in prayer today for the believers in Afghanistan. I have heard reports of many missionaries fearing for their lives and believers reporting that they are literally trapped in that country, yet rather than lose heart, they are praying for revival in their land. May it be so, and may the Ruach haKodesh give them the protection and strength that they need.

The very least we can do is pray on their behalf.

“No weapon formed against you will prosper
and you will condemn every tongue that rises against you in judgment.
This is the heritage of ADONAI’S servants—
their vindication is from Me.”
It is a declaration of ADONAI.” Isaiah 54:17

We must even pray for the Taliban. That term in the Pashto language means, “students.” These students, unlike talmudim, have been taught to hate, to kill, and to force their religion upon the people of that nation. We must pray that they would come to know Truth and repentance, for only through Messiah Yeshua can anyone be saved from a life of misery and terror.

“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Even the tax collectors do the same, don’t they?” Matthew 5:44-46

We pray for shalom. Just as we pray for the peace of Jerusalem, may there be peace in Afghanistan, that the children may run freely, the women may be safe, the pastors may preach openly without persecution, and the nation may be saved.

Please join us in prayer. Leave a comment so we know you’re praying with us! If you’d like, subscribe to stay updated! Blessings and Shalom.

Enjoy this activity with your friends, family, or entire congregation during the Feast of Tabernacles! Get this and other fun Biblical feast activities and ideas delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe today!

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Shalom!

Parashat Shemini (V’yikra/Leviticus 9-11) 5782 B”H

Updated: 3/24/22

We have reached a more controversial portion of Leviticus. We have looked at the five offerings of Leviticus and how they relate to the Good News, how Leviticus might be made a more central part of children’s ministry, and today, we have arrived at the controversial Leviticus 11.

This is one of those posts where I know some people will love it and some people will not read to the end.

Please, bear with me. Let me make my case, and then you can decide for yourself.

Leviticus 11 gives us a definition for “food”

Leviticus 11 identifies that which God considered acceptable for His people to eat as well as that which was prohibited.

It is easy to identify what is acceptable. Foods that are common to us today like chicken, beef, and fish with fins and scales.

It sounds really weird to us today, but it was also acceptable to eat crickets, locusts, and grasshoppers. Yikes.

These particular creatures were not considered food for human consumption:

Camels, rabbits, pigs, shellfish, vultures, ravens, owls, hawks, storks, herons, bats, weasels, rats, lizards, geckos, skinks, chameleons.

I wouldn’t want to eat a chameleon or a bat. You either? See, the list makes sense.

But what about the pigs and shellfish?

As you can see, pork and shrimp are lumped in with the animals considered abominable for the people of Israel to eat.

Harsh, right? Abominable! The word is meant to get our attention. To stir things up. To cause a controversy even.

The foods in Leviticus 11 are usually referred to as kosher vs. non-kosher. Those who follow strict Orthodox law describe this as the laws of kashrut.

It is easier (and totally Biblical) to simply think of them as clean vs. unclean.

In Leviticus 11:44-47, the LORD summarizes His reasons for giving these dietary laws:

“For I am ADONAI your God. Therefore, sanctify yourselves, and be holy, for I am holy.

You are not to defile yourselves with any kind of creeping thing that moves on the earth. For I am ADONAI who brought you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God.

Therefore, you shall be holy, for I am holy.

This is the Torah of the animal, the bird, every living creature that moves in the waters, and every creature that creeps on the earth, 

to make a distinction between the unclean and the clean, and between the living thing that may be eaten and the living thing that may not be eaten.” Leviticus 11:44-47, (emphases added)

The LORD God says twice: be holy, for I am holy.

He doesn’t want His people to be defiled.

Why? He wants there to be a distinction.

Distinction between the unclean and the clean, distinction between that which is holy and that which is not, distinction between those who belong to Him and those who . . . don’t.

For consistency, a very similar passage is found in Deuteronomy:

You are not to eat any detestable thing. These are the animals you may eat: the ox, the sheep, the goat,  the deer, the gazelle, the roebuck, the wild goat, the ibex, the antelope, and the mountain sheep. Among the animals, you may eat any animal that splits the hoof—the hoof completely split in two—and chews the cud. Yet of those that chew the cud or have a split hoof, you are not to eat the camel, the hare, and the rabbit—because they chew the cud but do not split the hoof, they are unclean to you. 

The pig, because it splits the hoof but does not chew the cud, is unclean to you—you are not to eat their meat or touch their carcasses. Of all that are in the waters, these you may eat: whatever has fins and scales you may eat, but whatever does not have fins and scales you are not to eat—it is unclean to you. 

You may eat all clean birds, but these are the ones you are not to eat: the eagle, the vulture, the buzzard, the red kite, the black kite, and any bird of prey of that kind, every raven of any kind, the ostrich, the owl, the seagull, a hawk of any kind, the little owl, the great owl, the white owl, the pelican, the Egyptian vulture, the cormorant, the stork, a heron of any kind, the hoopoe, and the bat. 

All winged insects are unclean to you—they are not to be eaten. You may eat any clean bird. You are not to eat anything that dies of itself. You may give it to the outsider within your gates so that he may eat it or you may sell it to a foreigner. For you are a holy people to ADONAI your God. . . .” D’varim/Deuteronomy14:3-20

But I know, most believers point to Acts 10 to say what we find in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14 are not at all relevant to us today.

So let’s take a careful look at Acts 10:9-16

“The next day, as the soldiers were traveling and approaching the city, Peter went up to the rooftop to pray, at about the sixth hour. Now he became very hungry and wanted to eat; but while they were preparing something, he fell into a trance.  He saw the heavens opened, and something like a great sheet coming down, lowered by its four corners to the earth. In it were all sorts of four-footed animals and reptiles and birds of the air.

A voice came to him, “Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.”

But Peter said, “Certainly not, Lord! For never have I eaten anything unholy or unclean.”

Again a voice came to him, a second time: “What God has made clean, you must not consider unholy.” 

This happened three times, and the sheet was immediately taken up to heaven.” (Acts 10:9-16).

This text, along with

“It’s not what goes into the mouth that makes the man unholy; but what comes out of the mouth, this makes the man unholy.” Matthew 15:11

are often used as prooftexts to claim that God Himself declared all animals clean for eating.

Are we getting more controversial yet?

Hold on, it gets better:

Have you ever considered that Peter’s vision had little to do with food?

Peter was hungry and God used his hunger for a teachable moment.

In the vision, Peter saw some unclean animals presented to him on the sheet.

The revelation here is that Peter is not to call PEOPLE unholy or unclean.

He is not to judge the Gentiles as unclean – as unworthy to follow Messiah Yeshua (Jesus). Peter is to preach to Jew and Gentile alike.

See, God didn’t change His mind about what constitutes food and what doesn’t. The vision was about preaching to all nations.

“[Peter] said to them, “You yourselves know that it is not permitted for a Jewish man to associate with a non-Jew or to visit him. Yet God has shown me that I should call no one unholy or unclean.” Acts 10:28

What pleases God?

We know what pleases God because He revealed to us plainly what animals are abominable for human consumption.

Let’s put this in today’s language. He revealed what animals are GROSS to eat.

Shrimp are bottom feeders. They are the garbage trucks of the ocean. Some go so far as to call shrimp the cockroaches of the sea! Pigs are dirty critters, too, you know, but also function as vacuum cleaners. You wouldn’t eat a vulture, would you? They clean up the roads nicely, but according to the Word, God really doesn’t want us eating them.

This really isn’t about being “under the law” or not – we are no longer under the curse of the law. But the law reveals to us that which has pleased our Father. Only Yeshua (Jesus) could fulfill it in its entirety, but as we live into our sanctification, it is fair to say we should strive to do all that which pleases God. Not for our salvation, but as fruit of our salvation.

Our lifestyle should reflect godliness!

Many preach that Christian believers should now eat whatever they want because we have been freed from the law and are now under grace. I can appreciate the intent, but in my view celebrating being freed from the curse of the law is much different than declaring independence from God’s wise and Holy Instructions. We can’t possibly keep every aspect of the law, that’s why Yeshua (Jesus) came, but it does give us, at the very least, an outline for holy living.

What pleased God?

“Yet it pleased ADONAI to bruise Him. He caused Him to suffer. If He makes His soul a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days, and the will of ADONAI will succeed by His hand.” Isaiah 53:10

For me, this is a hard passage. It pleased God to bruise His Son. We have to ask the question, “why?” I believe it is because at the point this Scripture was fulfilled, Yeshua (Jesus) had taken our sin upon Him and sin is such an affront to a Holy God that it actually pleased Him to see it dealt with. And what is sin? Lawlessness.

The Bible says so – in the New Testament.

“Everyone practicing sin also practices lawlessness—indeed, sin is lawlessness.” 1 John 3:4

So we need something to go by, a standard. God’s instructions give us that standard and Yeshua (Jesus) died for it.

So what about pork bacon? Pork barbecues? Shrimp scampi?

Well, let me tell you a story. A true one.

When I was in grad school, I used to attend a small Pentecostal church just a few miles from the university. I loved that church. I loved the people, I loved the music, I loved the ministry! The believers at this church loved the LORD and really did a good job of including newcomers and students (like me) and sharing the Gospel with love. It didn’t feel cliquish like so many small churches, and it was a wonderful place for any young believer to grow in their faith.

Like most evangelical churches, the pastor and leaders emphasized such spiritual practices as fasting and prayer and encouraged everyone to read the Bible for themselves. If you didn’t bring a Bible with you, an usher would have given you one.

The preaching seemed balanced and examples of Biblical praise and worship were cited from both Testaments.

These folks knew the Scriptures, and knew them well.

But I wasn’t entirely prepared for the fact that these believers had a slightly different understanding of the Christian’s relationship to the Hebrew Scriptures than I did. After accepting Messiah Yeshua (Jesus) during my undergrad years in Chicago, I have since held to what gets labeled as a “Messianic” (albeit thoroughly Pentecostal!) theological perspective.

I never struggled with the fact that my Messiah Yeshua (Jesus) was a Jewish Rabbi! When I moved out of my college bubble, I discovered most believers were not really interested in the Jewishness of Jesus, much less studying Torah’s relationship to the New Testament. Yeshua (Jesus) followed and fulfilled Torah so it seemed strange to me that everyone seemed to want to delete the first half of the Bible.

And I will never forget the day when many of us from the church went out for lunch at a little restaurant.

I guess I shouldn’t have been at all surprised when the pastor and the church leaders all ordered pork bbq plates. But I’m certain I unwittingly raised an eyebrow!

There were some cultural factors at play.

North Carolina is famous for pork barbecue, and I know from experience finding a place that serves turkey or chicken bbq is not easy. But this was actually a seafood restaurant. There were Biblically cleaner foods on the menu than swine flesh.

When the food arrived, one of the church elders actually said, “Thank you Jesus, for allowing us now to eat this pork!” I didn’t know to laugh or cry!

I realized that day in the restaurant that there was disconnect in traditional Christian practice from what is actually written in the Bible.

These same Christians who routinely practiced fasting and prayer were ok with the dietary restriction of fasting (another concept introduced in the Old, rather than New, Testament), but they were anti-dietary restriction regarding consumable foods.

Ultimately, aren’t we all guilty of picking and choosing at times, to strictly adhere to the things we like and to less fervently notice those things we don’t like?!

But, I simply posit this today: why not adhere to the LORD’s dietary instructions? For the most part, the only foods being argued about among Christians in America are pork chops, pork bacon, pork ham, and shrimp.

“‘Everything is permitted for me’”—but not everything is helpful.” (1 Cor.6:12)

Paul (Rabbi Sh’aul) invites believers in 1 Corinthians 6:12 to ask themselves an important question. Just because something is lawful to you, is it beneficial?

Something may or may not be permitted, but is it helpful?

Is it healthful?

“Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” Matthew 15:11

A certain meal may not defile spiritually, but is it truly of benefit to me physically, especially when consumed with frequency?

The United States has a Judeo-Christian heritage. It seems to me that believers in the United States used to have a more holistic and pure understanding of the Scriptures. As a nation, we collectively know that certain animals should not be consumed!

No one is upset that restaurants don’t serve owls and bats.

But today, we have become divided by denominationalism and agendas.

And pork is cheap (and some would argue, delicious).

This has led to a selective and collective cultural amnesia.

We have forgotten where we came from.

It is no secret that our country has strayed farther and farther from God’s Word and ways.

Have you ever noticed the amount of fast food advertisements that obsess about pork bacon?

It is a symptom of a much larger problem.

Doctrines have been misaligned over the years to assimilate into our culture. I’m picking on the pigs today, but this applies to so many other Biblical issues, not just dietary choices.

What happened to Christians being in the world, but not of it?

Even if it is unintentional, most believers pick and choose when it comes to obeying the Word of God. We really ought to work hard not to over or under emphasize verses of Scripture to suit our personal desires.

The blame has to start at the top because so many Christians have simply been taught this way for their whole lives.

We have to guard our testimony because it can get a little tarnished by stuff like this.

What does Leviticus 11 have to do with our testimony?

The Gospel is intended to be preached to all, but specifically to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

“For I am not ashamed of the Good News, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who trusts—to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” Romans 1:16

If we do not take passages like Leviticus 11 seriously, it is difficult to share our testimony in communities that may look different from our own.

Reaching Jews and Muslims with the Good News

Christian outreach efforts in Jewish communities often fall flat.

Why?

Why won’t Jewish people accept the Good News?

A lot of it has to do with controversial passages such as Leviticus 11.

A Jewish person is simply not going to attend the local church pork barbecue event.

The pig is considered the most repulsive of all the unclean animals to most Jews! Can you see how it would seem very strange to a potential convert to see Christians eating unclean meats and praying a blessing over it in the name the same God of Israel?

How about the Muslim community? I have known many a Muslim who have very openly said to me that they are surprised Christians in our country eat “forbidden” meats. Like Jews, Muslims do not eat just anything.

Whether we eat or drink, we are to do so to the glory of God (1 Cor.10:31). We are free, yes. But let’s align our lifestyles to the Scriptures! Sometimes, for the sake of another, we must refrain from certain things. Even Paul had Timothy circumcised – not for the sake of salvation, but for the sake of the Jews in the region they were going to testify in of the goodness of Gospel Truth.

The enemy loves when we as Christians sabotage the message. Why not seek to avoid the appearance of evil? (1 Thessalonians 5:22). The King James Version translates that as “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” (1 Thess.5:22, KJV). Maturity in our faith will require sacrifice and choosing to abstain from that which many would interpret as evil. It may indeed become a very strong testimony.

By no means am I telling you you “must” do these things in order to be a “good Christian.”

Instead, I would simply like you to reflect and pray on this topic.

For whatever you do, whether you eat or drink,

Always keep in line with Scripture, and study the Word for yourself!

Allow the Holy Spirit (Ruach HaKodesh) to guide your decisions and interpretations.

Is that controversial enough?! 🙂

What do you think? We’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment below! Shalom!

Then [Yeshua/Jesus] continued telling them, “Nation will rise up against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes along with famines and epidemics in various places, and there will be terrors along with great signs from heaven. Luke 21:10-11, emphasis added

Do you have quarantine fatigue? Tired of wearing a mask in the middle of the hot summer? You’re not alone.

None of us want to hear more about Covid-19, yet this pestilence doesn’t seem to be ending. We know we are in the last days, so we should not be surprised by these occurrences. Our Messiah cautioned us that there would be outbreaks of sickness. The pandemic is not over, and we must exercise wisdom and caution.

As though that isn’t enough to worry about, some of us struggle with anxiety issues. You might not get Covid, but you might be living in fear that you will. May you find shalom in the words of Scripture.

I recently had to have an unexpected surgery. Believe me, I was anxious! Anything to do with needles gets me quite riled up. But the LORD is faithful! He gave me a Word just days prior from Isaiah 58:8-10, and the promise contained within provided me the peace I so desperately needed.

“Then your light will break out like the dawn,

and your recovery will spring up quickly;

and your Righteousness will go before you;

the Glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.

Then you will call, and the LORD will answer;

you will cry for help, and He will say, ‘Here I am.'”

Isaiah 58:8-10, Tree of life version

I would like to share some other Scripture passages that I believe will help you in whatever situation you find yourself in. Rely on His strength, and I assure you, He will comfort you and free you from fear!

To begin, Psalm 27 is a wonderful Psalm to help overcome fear. The first verse is very well known:

ADONAI is my light and my salvation:
    whom should I fear?
ADONAI is the stronghold of my life:
    whom should I dread?

Psalm 27:1, TLV

What is needed in times of trouble is confidence. Being confident in the LORD means you have the ability to trust that the One in whom you have placed your trust for your salvation is able in the here and now to help you. Psalm 27 address this as well:

Though an army camp besieges me, my heart will not fear.

Though war breaks out against me, even then will I be confident.

Psam 27:3, TLV

Use the Psalms as a springboard for prayer.

The Almighty and Eternal One has helped you before. He will help you again.

You have been my help.

Do not abandon me or forsake me,

O God my salvation.

Psalm 27:9cd, TLV

I love how Psalm 27 ends, particularly as translated by the New King James Version.

I would have lost heart, unless I had believed
That I would see the goodness of the LORD
In the land of the living.

Wait on the LORD:
Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart;
Wait, I say, on the LORD!

Psalm 27:13-14, NKJV, emphasis added

Psalm 30 is another wonderful Psalm of encouragement.

ADONAI my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me.

Psalm 30:2

Do not ALLOW your heart to be troubled

 I feel that the Ruach haKodesh (the Holy Spirit) illuminated me to an important spiritual reality, the day I was set for surgery. He reminded me of Yeshua’s words in John 14:1 “Do not let your heart be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me.” There’s an imperative in there – do not LET. Do not ALLOW. Do not PERMIT.

But that means you and I, we have a choice here. Our emotions can really mess with us, but we are to take control over that by keeping our mind renewed and set on spiritual things. Scripture tells us to take our thoughts captive:

. . . We are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Messiah . . .

2 Cor.10:5

When I started to really think about that, I found myself better able to control my fear. That’s the key, isn’t it? Controlling your fear, so fear doesn’t control you. I kept telling my heart it was not allowed to fear. I have not been given the spirit of fear, but of love, power, and a sound mind (2 Tim.1:7). He has given us authority, so we need to use trust Him and use it (Luke 10:19). Yeshua repeats this instruction in verse 27 of the same chapter:

“Shalom I leave you, My shalom I give to you; but not as the world gives! Do not let your heart be troubled or afraid.”

John 14:27

Faithfulness + Faith = Confidence that you will be delivered from your fears

Do you have a track record of being faithful to the LORD and His mission? Overcoming anxiety truly becomes a matter of faith. If you have diligently sought the LORD prior to undergoing a test or trial, it will naturally be easier for you to rely on Him during the storm and you will be able to confidently confess that He has delivered you from all your fears.

Magnify ADONAI with me

and let us exalt His Name together.

I sought ADONAI, and He answered me,

and delivered me from all my fears.

They who looked to Him were radiant,

and their faces will never be ashamed.

This poor man cried, and ADONAI heard,

and saved him out of all his troubles.

Psalm 34:4-7

Psalm 34 really highlights the way that the LORD reciprocates His love toward those who love and trust in Him.

The righteous cry out and ADONAI hears,
and delivers them from all their troubles.
ADONAI is close to the brokenhearted,
and saves those crushed in spirit.
Many are the distresses of the righteous,
but ADONAI delivers him out of them all.
He keeps all his bones—
not one of them is broken.
Evil kills the wicked—
those who hate the righteous will be held guilty.
ADONAI redeems the soul of His servants
—no one who takes refuge in Him will be held guilty.

Psalm 34:18-23, TLV (v.17-22 in most other English translations such as NKJV)

As does Psalm 55:22 (v.23, TLV):

Cast your burden on ADONAI, and He will sustain you.
He will never let the righteous be shaken.

Psalm 55:23, TLV (Psalm 55:22, customary)

Remember who it is He says you are

As a believer, if you have determined to love the LORD your God with all your heart, and follow Messiah Yeshua, you are part of a Holy Nation, the Royal Priesthood of believers. You have been saved, sanctified, set apart, and His promises go right along with that.

“Then it will happen, as a result of your listening to these ordinances, when you keep and do them, that ADONAI your God will keep with you the covenant kindness that He swore to your fathers. He will love you, bless you and multiply you. He will also bless the fruit of your womb and the produce of your soil, your grain and your new wine and your oil, the increase of your herds and the young of your flock, in the land that He swore to your fathers to give you. From all peoples, you will be blessed—there will not be male or female barren among you or your livestock. ADONAI will remove all sickness from you, and He will not inflict on you any of the terrible diseases of Egypt that you knew, but will inflict them on all who hate you.”

Deuteronomy 7:12-15, TLV

So remember, the LORD loves you, and He will honor your faithfulness.

Since you were precious in My sight,

You have been honored,

And I have loved you . . . .

Isaiah 43:4, NKJV

Have you been encouraged today? What are some of YOUR favorite Bible passages to get you through a tough time? Comment below! Shalom, mishpocha

I am blessed to be participating in an “I Read with Audra” blog tour for Rabbi Jason Sobel’s new book: Mysteries of the Messiah: Unveiling Divine Connections from Genesis to Today. You may be interested to know that the foreword was written by Kathie Lee Gifford, who actually co-authored a previous book with Sobel titled, The Rock, the Road, and the Rabbi. Most of the Scripture references in Mysteries of the Messiah come from the Tree of Life Version of the Bible (TLV), which I find to be an excellent Bible translation and use frequently here on the Adonai Shalom blog.

Book Review

Mysteries of the Messiah by Rabbi Jason Sobel is absolutely on-topic, as more and more Christians are becoming aware of the importance of enriching their understanding of the Hebrew roots of their Christian faith. Accordingly, Rabbi Sobel’s book is addressed to Christian believers of all denominations. He commends the study of the New Testament, but encourages believers to take a deeper interest in the Old Testament (Hebrew) Scriptures as well, in order to build a more robust theology.

A Primer for Messianic Theology

As a Messianic Rabbi, Sobel does not diminish the Gospel. He uses illustrations from Hebrew to help traditionally-taught Christians encounter deeper meanings behind the words in Scripture that often go overlooked or misunderstood.

Mysteries of the Messiah is a necessary work for “such a time as this” as Sobel rightly assesses the current spiritual climate: believers are awakening to the true fullness of the Gospel, embracing the continuity of the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) and the New Testament (Brit Hadashah). Importantly, Sobel understands that for many American Christians, delving into the riches of the Tanakh is a novel enterprise. Mysteries of the Messiah offers a primer for believers to explore Messianic prophecies and Biblical holy days, written in a gentle, conversational tone.

Biblical numerology

First, the book itself begins with an accessible introduction into Biblical numerology. Sobel’s time spent under the tutelage of Rabbi Jonathan Cahn’s ministry in New Jersey becomes evident right from the start as he seeks to uncover hidden meanings and messages using numbers and calculations based on the Hebrew values of the aleph-bet letters. Many of Sobel’s insights are compelling and will enrich the thoughtful reader, but the reader may occasionally differ with his interpretive conclusions.

Messiah’s Identity

One thing that will not be disputed by any Messianic Jewish or Christian believer who reads Mysteries of the Messiah is Rabbi Sobel’s passionate insistence that Jesus of Nazareth, Yeshua ha-Notzri, was and is the promised Messiah of Israel. In the first chapter, Sobel identifies five specific areas that he believes reveal important clues about Messiah’s identity and shares his own testimony of receiving Messiah Yeshua as his own Savior. Readers interested in Messianic Jewish apologetics may particularly appreciate this early section of the book.

Great for readers who enjoy Bible Studies

The middle chapters will appeal to any readers who enjoy Bible Studies. Sobel invites readers to explore the extensive ways Messiah is revealed in the Scriptures from creation to beyond Pentecost (Shavu’ot) using the numerology he introduced in the earlier chapters. No knowledge of Hebrew or Greek is required for the reader to be able to gain an appreciation of linguistic nuances in the Bible thanks to Sobel’s easy-to-read writing style. Sobel presents Jewish concepts such as tikkun olam (repairing the world) in a very understandable and relatable way. Moreover, he writes with a pastor’s heart, encouraging believers in their faith. He shares his hope and prayer for Jews and Gentiles alike to unite in Messiah Jesus:

“When Jew and Gentile unite in Jesus, we become an unstoppable force for salvation, transformation, and revival.”

Sobel, Jason. Mysteries of Messiah: Unveiling Divine Connections from Genesis to Today. Nashville, TN: W Publishing Group, 2021.

Conclusion

Finally, Mysteries of Messiah concludes with an impressive revelation contained within the beloved Isaiah 9:6 passage related to Messiah’s lineage as the Son of David. I found it to be an enjoyable and refreshing read, one that may spark the reader to desire to delve deeply into the richness of Scripture’s mysteries and the Jewishness of Jesus even after finishing the book.

Excerpt

RAFFLECOPTER BOOK GIVEAWAY

A book giveaway is going on now! Enter here to win! Update 2/22. This giveaway ended July 30, 2021.

About the Author: Mysteries of the Messiah by Jason Sobel

Title: Mysteries of the Messiah: Unveiling Divine Connections from Genesis to Today
Author: Rabbi Jason Sobel
Publisher: W Publishing Group, an imprint of Thomas Nelson
Release Date: March 23, 2021
Genre: Religion/Christian Living/Spiritual Growth, Messianic Interest

ISBN: 978-0-7852-4005-1

Did you enjoy this book review? Have YOU read the book? Leave a comment about what YOU thought about it!

Thank you to the publisher, W Publishing Group of Thomas Nelson, for the review copy. I have provided an honest review.

*Giveaway link provided as a service to readers. Giveaway is not sponsored by Adonai Shalom blog. Readers may enter giveaway at their own personal discretion. Rules for giveaways and contests differ in each state/region, please adhere to local laws related to giveaways.

PURCHASE LINKS:  Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Christianbook | Books-A-Million

Pastora Jennifer Mieliulis Fuentes, M.Div., Duke University

Links to other participating blogs**:

**Adonai Shalom is in no way affiliated with these blogs and perspectives shared by other blog authors are their own; doctrinal positions may differ.

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Parashat Pinchas (B’midbar/Numbers 25:10 – 29) 5781 B”H (Updated 7/19/22 5782)

The Law had been given, but clarification was needed

By Numbers 25, Israel had Torah (God’s instructions), but different situations arose in Israel’s history which needed clarification.

One such instance occurred in Numbers (B’midbar) 27 when a man named Tzelophehad (commonly spelled, Zelophehad, in English translations) died in the wilderness.

He was survived by 5 daughters.

Tzelophehad’s family

It appears Tzelophehad had been a decent man.

Nothing is said about his wife, so she may have died many years earlier.

Yet somehow Tzelophehad managed to raise up 5 thoughtful daughters:

Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah.

Machlach‘s name refers to “sickness.” If she was the firstborn, as suggested by the name-order listing in the Bible, perhaps her mother struggled during childbirth. Noah‘s name is derived from a word meaning, “movement,” referring to “trembling” or “quivering.” Perhaps she was seen as “nervous” or “anxious.” Choglah’s name is a bit more obscure, probably meaning, “partridge” according to Strong’s Hebrew Concordance. Maybe she was a crier as an infant, because, according to the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, partridges were known for their loud cries that attracted plenty of attention. Milcah is a form of Malchah, meaning “queen,” and Tirtzah describes a “favored” one or one in whom there is “delight.”

These women knew right from wrong and just from unjust. They were respectful of Moses and they concerned themselves with a legal matter, demonstrating that they also respected YHVH.

The legal precedence was such that sons received a father’s inheritance.

But Tzelophehad had no sons!

He did, however, have some independent thinkers!

His daughters concerned themselves with an issue of fairness, seeking justice, not only for themselves, but for the legacy of their father.

Moses & Eleazar hear the daughters’ petition

Tzelophehad was never part of Korah‘s clan. Tzelophehad’s daughters made a special point to ensure their father’s legacy would in no way be connected to Korah.

Tzelophehad had nothing to do with the rebellious uprising.

Read about Korah, the (wicked) Social Influencer of their day HERE

Machlah, Noah, Choglah, Milcah, and Tirzah appeared before Moses, Eleazar, and the princes of the entire Israelite assembly at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting.

No sickness or nervousness would keep them from walking in favor.

They did not seek attention for attention’s sake.

The 5 sisters had in them the confidence that they were daughters of Israel, queens in the royal kingdom of a holy nation blessed by the Almighty One. They were bound as sisters, and they made their petition together.

They posed this question to Moshe and Eleazar, and the leaders: “Why should our father’s name diminish from his family just because he had no son? Give to us property among our father’s brothers.” (Numbers 27:4)

A verdict from on high

Moses didn’t make a decision until he had consulted the Supreme Law-Giver, ADONAI. Moshe prayed and the LORD responded to him that Tzelophehad’s daughters were right:

They should be given the inheritance of their father, and the commandment would stand for all of Israel.

There was only one caveat (described in Numbers 36) which was that the daughters had to marry within their tribe.

Individual and community rights

These five brave women took a stand for their human rights. Some would say they remained limited due to the provision that they must marry within their clan, but culturally speaking, they were still granted significant freedom to marry whoever they wished within their tribal grouping.

Rabbi Johnathan Sacks, of blessed memory, delves deeper into the human rights discussion that arises from Numbers 27 in his article titled, Complexity of Human Rights. Of particular interest, the dichotomy of the individual rights justly pursued by the five daughters of Tzelophehad and the group or tribal rights that are also an important part of wholesome justice.

Today, most people are only focused on their individual rights, to the exclusion or disregard of the needs and rights of the wider society. This can lead to major distortions in appropriate social justice. The “me” culture of today forces wider society to adapt to outlandish policies demanded by at times defiant individuals, in a less-than-holy and unjust way.

The lesson from Numbers 27 is that when an individual pursues justice in a righteous and holy way, then their needs can and should be addressed, and the wider society will benefit from that individual situation.

Machlah, Noah, Choglah, Milcah, and Tirzah would marry within the tribe, for their own benefit, but also for the benefit of the nation of Israel.

Families come first, and this Scripture passage illustrates that.

The 5 daughters of Tzelophehad were blessed and heard because of their faithfulness and obedience, and the nation of Israel prospered, even to this day.

Have you ever found yourself in a situation in which you needed to stand for justice? Are you going through a circumstance right now in which you need to lean on the LORD’s favor to help you win your case? Do you have a prayer request? Leave a comment, or email us at [email protected]. We would love to pray for you! Also, take a moment to subscribe to our email list so you can receive encouragement straight to your inbox! We promise not to overwhelm you with emails. Shalom!

Korah: the Rebellious Social Influencer

Parashat Balak (B’midbar/Numbers 22-25) 5781 B”H (Updated 7/15/22 5782, 10/23/23 5784)

A king and a prophet-for-profit (Balak and Balaam)

Numbers 22-25 contains the complex account of King Balak of Moab and Balaam, a pagan prophet-for-hire.

King Balak was terrified of what would come to his kingdom once the Israelites arrived.

Israel had just decimated the Amorites, so this king had reason to be concerned.

Balak’s fear rubbed off on his people. Numbers 22:3 says “Moab was filled with dread because of B’nei Y’Israel [the children of Israel].” The Moabites knew Israel was strong, both in number and in power.

King Balak believed in the supernatural realm. He professed faith in Balaam’s powers: “I know that whoever you bless will be blessed and whoever you curse will be accursed!” (Num.22:6). Clearly, Balaam had a reputation as a divination expert in the region. Balaam has been called a “prophet for profit” and the “seer who couldn’t see.” He didn’t get these nicknames for no reason. He had a prophetic gifting and even interacted with the LORD God of Israel, but he was much more interested in collecting divination fees than seeking the will of ADONAI.

A Talking Donkey, Border-line Animal Abuse, and a Message

King Balak wanted Prophet Balaam to curse Israel in hopes that he could fight against the Israelites and win.

Balaam had every intention of fulfilling the king’s request through his oracles, but the God of Israel told him not to curse Israel because they are blessed.

If you have never read the account, I encourage you to do so because you will read about a talking donkey, border-line animal abuse, and a special messenger/angel of the LORD with a message for this selfish prophet.

Why rely on the media to inform you of stuff that is “strange but true?” You can’t make this stuff up, nor would you want to. Read Numbers 22 for yourself here.

The error of Balaam described by Jude (Judah) and Peter

Once a pagan, always a pagan, in the case of Balaam. This is not a redemption story.

The lost man, in this case, Balaam, despite encountering the living presence of the Almighty, doesn’t end up found in the sense of being saved.

He was found guilty.

Peddling prophecies.

Desirous of personal financial gain.

Peter writes that Balaam “loved the wages of unrighteousness.”

"They have forsaken the right way and gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; but he was rebuked for his iniquity: a dumb donkey speaking with a man’s voice restrained the madness of the prophet."  2 Peter 2:15-16, emphases added

G.K.Beale and D.A. Carson’s Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament describe Balaam’s sin:

“The rebuke that Balaam received from the donkey . . . was the result of miraculous intervention by God, but Peter emphasizes the ironic symbolism: Balaam’s sin was irrational, and he was rebuked by an irrational beast.”

Beale, 1056

Likewise, Judah (known more commonly in English as Jude) categorizes Balaam right along with other ungodly people who have gone before, from the time of Sodom and Gomorrah, Cain, and Korah, all acting “like animals” who have no reason.

"Woe to them!  For they went the way of Cain; they were consumed for pay in Balaam's error; and in Korah's rebellion they have been destroyed.  These people are hidden rocky reefs at your love feasts - shamelessly feasting with you, tending only to themselves.  They are waterless clouds, carried along by winds; fruitless trees in ate autumn, doubly dead, uprooted; wild waves of the sea, foaming up there own shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever."  Judah (Jude) 1:11-13, emphasis added

The gloom of utter darkness.

Well, that sounds horrible.

And it is!

And it is real!

What we can learn from the false doctrine of Balaam

Balaam thought “a little sin” wouldn’t do any harm. That just wasn’t true.

Balaam’s demise should be a lesson to the lukewarm. There are so many people who attend churches and congregations, yet have little love in their hearts. So many people claim to be pastors and teachers, prophets and evangelists, but they either have given up the anointing or have sought to use it for selfish gain.

We must beware of the false doctrines that prevail, and seek only the LORD and His Truth.

Too many believers today think that if they have one foot in the door to heaven, they can experiment a bit with the other foot.

That’s a bad idea because before they know it, they will slip on the uneven ground.

Follow the way of the LORD – stay true to Him and His Word, and He will guide You in His Perfect way.

Balaam ended up blessing Israel and prophesying of the coming Messiah!

As much as Balaam didn’t want to admit it, he knew he couldn’t get away with cursing Israel.

He rightly states in Numbers 23:8, “How can I curse one whom God has not cursed? How can I denounce one whom ADONAI has not denounced?”

King Balak becomes desperate, “What have you done to me? I brought you to curse my enemies, but look, you’ve actually blessed them!” Numbers 23:11

Balaam continues, “There is no sorcery effective against Jacob, nor any divination against Israel! Now it will be said of Jacob and Israel, ‘See what God has done!'” Numbers 23:23

King Balak urges Balaam to just stop already! Balak says, “Do not curse them or bless them at all!” (Numbers 23:25).

Both of these pagan men are starting to understand: Israel is untouchable because Israel belongs to God!

Balaam gives an oracle about the beauty of the Israelites’ tents and the victories that God’s people will continue to enjoy.

In the fourth oracle particularly, Balaam prophesies of the coming of Yeshua (Jesus) the Messiah.

"I see Him, yet not in this location.  For a star will come from Jacob, a scepter will arise from Israel . . . '"  (Numbers 24:17)

The prophecy ends with various descriptions of Israel’s triumphs.

Balaam and Balak, defeated, went their own separate ways. (Numbers 24:25).

Sometimes the enemy will try to raise up all kind of chaos in your life. If you remain faithful to Messiah Yeshua, Jesus the Son of God, the devil will eventually have to give up and move on. The victory is guaranteed, if you will continue to trust in Him.

“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” James 4:7

Update 10/23/23:

This morning I received a wonderful question on our Facebook page inbox regarding Numbers 23:21.

“He has not observed iniquity in Jacob,
Nor has He seen wickedness in Israel.
The LORD his God is with him,
And the shout of a King is among them.” (NKJV)

This is a rare case in which I actually prefer the NIV translation here:

“No misfortune is seen in Jacob,
    no misery observed in Israel.
The LORD their God is with them;
    the shout of the King is among them.“ (NIV)

My brother in Christ was asking if this would be considered a Messianic prophecy.

I responded that yes, I believe this is a Messianic prophecy because Balaam wanted so very much to curse Israel (but again see Numbers 23:8 in which he discovers that is altogether impossible). The LORD puts His Word into Balaam’s mouth and Balaam ultimately finds himself prophesying about the future – including the coming Messiah.

Israel is at war today.

The Messianic prophecy of Numbers 23:21 is indeed an uplifting promise for us to remember today and to share with our friends in Israel.

There shall be a time when “no misfortune is seen in Jacob”

and “no misery observed in Israel.”

This verse gives us the certainty that we know the LORD their God is with them – the King, the Lion of Judah, and ultimately Israel will have victory and the shout of our King will be heard.

Maranatha!

Please leave a comment below with your thoughts!