New Year Advice

In a few days, we will be having a new year. I want to take a moment and give some wonderful advice that was given to me several years ago. Start the year off right! Take time and pray in the new year. You will already be up late, so take a moment and ask the Lord to help you learn more about Him. Jeremiah 29:13 “And you will seek Me and find [Me,] when you search for Me with all your heart.”

Take time starting on day one to be in His Word, Psalm 1:1-2 “Blessed [is] the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; 2 But his delight [is] in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night.”

Finally, be actively searching for what God is doing in the World and in your own life. Understand the times we live in and what is the best approach to glorify God and be about His Work, 1 Chronicles 12:32 “of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, their chiefs were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their command;”

If we did just these simple steps this year, 2026 could be a year of revival and growth with the Lord. No matter what happens, let us be eager in His Word and seek ways to give Him the glory He deserves.

Happy New Year from Mill House Ministries.

Re-Post Friday

Finding joy in trials. Read it HERE!

A Simple Change

Today is Christmas Eve, and many will be discussing Jesus’s birth and the salvation that comes from Him. While this is very much needed, I recently learned something regarding Abraham, Sarah, and God’s grace. The section of scripture that we will be looking at today comes from two verses.

“5 No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you a father of many nations.”

Genesis 17:5

“15 Then God said to Abraham, “As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name.”

Genesis 17:15

These verses may seem strange to discuss when so many others are focusing on Jesus, which is what we should be doing. However, many don’t realize that Jesus is found even in these two verses, and it comes from a simple change. In these two verses, we see Abram become Abraham, and Sarai become Sarah. Unless you understand the biblical meaning behind the numbers, you wouldn’t see God’s grace in this change. In both names, the fifth letter is changed, and ironically, it is the fifth letter of the Hebrew alphabet that is added; in English it is “H” but in Hebrew it is “HEH”.

Why is this important? It is because of what the number five represents. In Hebrew, every number has a meaning associated with it. If you followed along with our study on gems, you know that other things also have meaning associated with them. In this case, the number five represents “grace”. Have you caught on yet? In these verses, God is already declaring His grace is needed to change humanity. To prove this, look at the meaning behind “Abram”, “Abraham”, “Sarai”, and “Sarah”. Abram means “a barren man”, and Abraham means “the father of many nations”. Sarai means “contentious”, and Sarah means “princess.”

Look how significant a simple change is! So, for this Christmas season, I ask you, have you made a simple but impactful change in your life? Have you accepted that Jesus came to earth fully man and fully God, that He was born of a virgin, that He lived a perfect life, that He was crucified and died for your sins? If you can accept this, you too will receive God’s grace and be made into something brand new.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex

The Word Became Flesh

Today, we are talking about Christmas, but most likely not the Christmas lesson you are expecting. Let’s examine the true meaning of the season we celebrate and how this is only part one of a Christmas season yet to come!

We know that Jesus’s ancestry/lineage/bloodline is discussed in Matthew and Luke. However, for the purposes of today’s study, we are examining His Godhood and what that means in the context of Christmas.

John 1:1-2 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God.”

Jesus Christ is 100% God. He claimed to be God, and if anyone tries to persuade you otherwise, they are horribly mistaken.

We know that Jesus is God. We know that God is Jesus, but what does it mean about Christmas? God, who is infinite and boundless, added on. How does one do such a thing? Mathematics is the simplest way to do this: use the infinity symbol, place an addition sign, and a one. God became more. Yet, we can examine the Hebrew and see something remarkable is at work.

John 1:14 “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” The Word, being Jesus, became flesh and dwelt among us. The word “Dwelt” is the Greek word Skenoo, which is a direct translation of the Hebrew word Tabernacle. Allow me the opportunity to lay out a few interesting things before going to my final point of today's post.

We have to examine the ancient tax season to get a clue. Luke 2:1-6 “And it came to pass in those days [that] a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. 4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. 6 So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered.” Caesar never would have people move across the empire during the winter months. This would have been too dangerous and defeated the purpose of why the census was happening. This was being done for taxes. The best time in ancient times to do taxes was at the end of the harvest, when sales had just occurred and the year's labor was at an end.

We also know it was in early fall or late summer, based on the shepherd’s location. Luke 2:8-16 “Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 “For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 “And this [will be] the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 14 “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” 15 So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.” If it were during the winter months, they would not have the animals in the elements in the rainy season, but they would have been packed into the manger. The shepherds are in the fields, and the weather is still rather pleasant. This also provides clues for us in understanding the time.

We also know that nine months prior is about the time of the Feast of Dedication, or what we know as Hanukkah. Now, how ironic is it that the Feast of Lights is when the light of the world would show up? Nevertheless, Feast of Tabernacles I believe provides us the best arguement for a time frame of Jesus coming to earth. For this, we need to go to Leviticus 23:34-36: “Speak to the children of Israel, saying: ‘The fifteenth day of this seventh month [shall be] the Feast of Tabernacles [for] seven days to the LORD. 35 ‘On the first day [there shall be] a holy convocation. You shall do no customary work [on it.] 36 ‘[For] seven days you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD. On the eighth day you shall have a holy convocation, and you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD. It [is] a sacred assembly, [and] you shall do no customary work [on it.]” When you cross-compare this to John 1:14, you see a remarkable clue in the words that Jesus “Dwelt” among us. I would make an argument that Jesus was born on or during the Feast of Tabernacles. Now, what does this mean for the reason of the season? It means all the more we should celebrate what Christmas is! It is Immanuel, God with us. It is an incredible moment for us to proclaim the workings of God doing what we all thought was impossible for those who did not deserve it.

Should we celebrate Christmas in late September? Yes! And also celebrate it on December 25th? YES! I am reminded of the Feast of Hanukkah and that it was not one of the written feasts given to Israel in the Torah. And yet Jesus observed it. God is not without observing blessings when we try. Salvation is through Christ alone and His work, but post-salvation, we should be doing everything we can to please and honor Him. Christmas is that time of the year. God is an incredible God; Christmas is a time for us to recognize what He did and the foreshadowing of His ultimate Tabernacle when He reigns for 1,000 years, as described in Revelation 20. If this has not intrigued you enough, I would encourage you to examine two classic Christmas songs, “Joy To The World” and “Oh Come Oh Come Immanuel”. Both are very responsive to the post today, revealing truths of what Christ will do one day. Christmas is a time of celebration, but Christmas is only part of the festival; we still have to have Jesus dwell among us again!

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL

Re-Post Friday

A look back into our Basics Study of the Old Testament. Read it HERE!

Treasure Unsealed

Today I want to provide a quick reference to some rather remarkable Biblical truth that we have at our fingertips. But first, I want to show the prophecy detailing the events we are living in now. Let’s go to Daniel 12:4 “But as for you, Daniel, conceal these words and seal up the book until the end of time; many will go back and forth, and knowledge will increase.” Here we see that Daniel is confused about what he is seeing and is asking for more knowledge. I want to emphasize that it is never wrong to ask the Lord what He means when studying His Word and even His creation. Many Biblical truths and scientific breakthroughs have come about because someone asked the Lord.

Daniel is told that the future prophecies discussed in chapter 12 will be fulfilled for a future generation; they are there for a group that will come. Many will go back and forth, and knowledge will increase. Some have taken this to think of travel or knowledge in the academic world. However, when we look at the context, we can clearly see that the prophecy is identifying Biblical knowledge. People would go to and fro examining God’s Word. This Word is sealed until a certain time. I believe this time is quickly coming and is finally here.

Is it by any chance that in 1947, the biggest Biblical treasure trove ever found was unearthed? And right before the biggest prophetic sign in the world is brought forth with the rebirth of the Israeli nation? I think not! Some will call this a coincidence; I would call this a clue. God is pointing us to His Word and is even providing the material needed to better understand within the context of what we are reading.

What does this mean for you and I? It means we need to be studying God’s 66 books. We need to examine what archeological findings uncover, we need to examine the scientific truths discovered, and see exactly what God is telling us. We live in unprecedented times; let us not squander them on the trivial, but let us keep our eyes focused on Jesus Christ. The world will tell you we live in dark times, but for us who are saved, our hope is in the Lord and His soon rapture to take us home. Let’s be good sons and daughters and be about our Heavenly Father’s work until we are called home.

If you are not saved or unsure, now is the perfect time to ask God to help you fix this. Ask Him into your heart, ask for forgiveness for your sins, ask Him to be the King of your soul, and ask Him to finish a good work in you. I promise you nothing will be the same. The heavens will rejoice, and Mill House Ministries will be here to help you. Contact us, and we will be happy to help you on this new adventure with Jesus Christ.

Until next week, remember that God is a magnificent God and King, He loves you and I enough to give us a heads up/alert of the treasure trove of Biblical truth that was sealed until this time for you and I. His love letter to the world has hidden treasure that has been set aside for our generation; let us not squander it but rather hold on to it.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex

A STUDY IN GENESIS

Today’s lesson might seem simple or even childish to many, but it is something most Christians struggle with. When God says, “Trust me,” what do we do? In Abraham and Sarah’s day, this very scenario was played out. Now, most pastors and scholars will review this and discuss the promise of Jesus Christ coming from the bloodline of Isaac. However, I want to focus on something rather different. Let’s read Genesis 18 with the mindset of not knowing what is coming. Examine the difference between Abraham and Sarah.

Genesis 18:1-15 “Then the LORD appeared to him by the terebinth trees of Mamre, as he was sitting in the tent door in the heat of the day. 2 So he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing by him; and when he saw [them,] he ran from the tent door to meet them, and bowed himself to the ground, 3 and said, “My Lord, if I have now found favor in Your sight, do not pass on by Your servant. 4 “Please let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree. 5 “And I will bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh your hearts. After that you may pass by, inasmuch as you have come to your servant.” They said, “Do as you have said.” 6 So Abraham hurried into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quickly, make ready three measures of fine meal; knead [it] and make cakes.” 7 And Abraham ran to the herd, took a tender and good calf, gave [it] to a young man, and he hastened to prepare it. 8 So he took butter and milk and the calf which he had prepared, and set [it] before them; and he stood by them under the tree as they ate. 9 Then they said to him, “Where [is] Sarah your wife?” So he said, “Here, in the tent.” 10 And He said, “I will certainly return to you according to the time of life, and behold, Sarah your wife shall have a son.” (Sarah was listening in the tent door which [was] behind him.) 11 Now Abraham and Sarah were old, well advanced in age; [and] Sarah had passed the age of childbearing. 12 Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, “After I have grown old, shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?” 13 And the LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh, saying, ‘Shall I surely bear [a child,] since I am old?’ 14 “Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.” 15 But Sarah denied [it,] saying, “I did not laugh,” for she was afraid. And He said, “No, but you did laugh!”

Abraham immediately sees the three and recognizes that one of them is the Messiah in a pre-incarnate form. We would call this a Christophany. In the discussion, we see that Abraham and Sarah are promised a son. Sarah, who is listening from inside the tent, laughs. Now, many will jump to accuse her of a lack of faith; however, I would remind the reader of what Hebrews 11:11 says about Sarah’s faith. “By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised.” Now what does this mean for you and I? It means that God gives grace, and even in our weakness, He can make incredible advances for the Kingdom of God. She laughed at the idea, but months later she would be laughing with joy, holding her very own son, Isaac.

This is important for us to understand that God gives grace and can still use us for His glory. Sarah had a moment of weakness, then lied about it, yet by the end of her story, she would bear a son who would have a lineage leading to the Messiah Himself.

This is incredible for you and I! We have a God who not only cares but provides grace for you and I. Let us not take that for granted. As we will see next time, God’s grace does have its limits. There are times He will declare it is judgment time. Next time, we will discuss Sodom and Gomorrah.

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL

Re-Post Friday

Understanding who the author of the book of James is. Read it HERE!

A Precious Gem Part VIII

Today, we have reached the end of our study on the different gems found in the priestly garments. While we will be discussing the last three gems, we will also review the meaning behind each gem.

“20 and the fourth row, a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. They shall be set in gold settings.”

Exodus 28:20

Let us look at the beryl stone. For this stone, I am not going to give the Hebrew definition of the word. That is because the word for this stone is H8658, which simply means the beryl stone. This stone is known for its beauty and variety of colors, which range from green to blue-green, and is a mineral composed of beryllium, aluminum, cyclosilicate, and is often associated with other gemstones such as emerald and aquamarine, which are varieties of beryl. Apart from being one of the stones mentioned in New Jerusalem in Revelation 21:20, we also see the beryl stone mentioned in Ezekiel 1:16 and Daniel 10:6. These verses depict instances in which man sees either a vision of God’s glory or an angel. Based on its use in these verses, I believe that the meaning behind this stone is that of clarity. Its recurring presence in visions and descriptions of heavenly realms underscores its symbolic role as a representation of God's glory and purity. The use of beryl in the High Priest's breastplate and the foundations of the New Jerusalem further emphasize its significance in the covenantal relationship between God and His people.

The second stone in this row is the onyx stone. Since this stone occurred earlier in the text we have been studying, I have already discussed it, but I will give a brief reminder of what the stone could mean. In Exodus 28:9, we have the third mention of onyx, but the first one that gives us a clue as to what the stone is used for. The high priest is meant to place these engraved stones upon his shoulders as a memorial. Based on its placement, there is the belief that the onyx stone represents strength and endurance. The high priest carried the tribes' names upon his shoulders, reminding God of his covenant with them, while also reminding the Jews that the covenant between them and God is not carried by them but by God’s sustaining power.

Now we will look at our last stone, the jasper. The Hebrew word for this stone is H3471, which simply means “jasper”. So, just like the beryl stone, we need to look at context in scripture to understand its meaning. H3471 is only used three times in scripture, the first being in Exodus 28:20, then it is not used again until Revelation 21:11 and Revelation 21:18-19 where we see the construction of New Jerusalem taking place. It is for this reason, that many believe that the jasper stone represents fulfillment and communication. Having jasper in the New Jerusalem encourages believers to look forward to the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, while assuring them of the certainty of God's promises and the future reality of dwelling in His glorious presence. This stone, therefore, becomes a symbol of hope and assurance for the faithful, reflecting the eternal beauty and perfection of God's kingdom.

Now that we have finished looking at each of the stones found in scripture, I believe that it is important to go back and remember what we have learned. The stones we have discussed have been: ruby, topaz, emerald, turquoise, sapphire, diamond, jacinth, agate, amethyst, beryl, onyx, and jasper. When we look at them in this order, presented in Exodus 28:17-20, we see that these stones are calling the high priest to remember: wisdom and virtue, protection and divine favor, renewal and restoration, authority, promise, purity and steadfast, divine authority and the eternal covenant, strength, stability, and protection, clarity of thought and insight, clarity, strength and endurance, and fulfillment.

When looking at the stones, it is clear that God has a purpose, and when we, as believers, follow His direction, we can look forward to the promises that He has given us, as well as the fulfillment of the promises that He has to Israel.

I hope that you have enjoyed this study; I certainly did. It is a wonderful reminder that God’s word is alive, and if we dig deeper into His word, we will learn more about our Savior. I would encourage you to dive into God’s Word and see what incredible truths are hidden in plain sight. Our Bible studies need not be mundane and boring, glossing over texts. They should be pursued with the utmost vigor and intensity to learn as much as we can of our Lord and Savior. Believers should do this for several reasons. First, like the stones, they will teach us who God is; second, like the stones, they will remind us in hard times who God is. Finally, like the stones, when we know the truth of God’s Word and outwardly show it, we can declare to others God’s awesomeness, His love, and His pure generosity to those who are His. We each have the opportunity and need only cry out to Jesus to go on this incredible adventure. So next time you see these stones or read about them, I hope this study reminds you of God’s truth.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex

A STUDY IN GENESIS

As we continue to go through the book of Genesis, especially in chapter 17, we need to remember that this is the book of beginnings. This book is all about God starting something with man to rescue man from himself. God provides symbols and ways for mankind to remember these promises of God’s intentions to rescue mankind. Keep this foundational truth in mind as we continue through chapter 17.

Genesis 17:9-27 is our scripture reading. Here we see a discussion with God and Abraham. The subject is the symbolic act that would represent a covenant made by God to Abraham. This covenant is spelled out in the previous post, which I would encourage you to go and read. However, I want to highlight a few things. Examine verses 12-13. “He who is eight days old among you shall be circumcised, every male child in your generations, he who is born in your house or bought with money from any foreigner who is not your descendant. 13 “He who is born in your house and he who is bought with your money must be circumcised, and My covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant.” It is the eighth day that this is to happen. We can examine the medical practices and why the eighth day is so special for circumcision, but I want to identify the number eight. This number in Judaism signifies the number of the Messiah. This was a symbol of who was going to come and what He was going to do. He would make a person clean and make them be at peace with God. We know that God took it seriously because verse 14 highlights this very thing, “14 “And the uncircumcised male child, who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin, that person shall be cut off from his people; he has broken My covenant.” Spiritually speaking, man cannot be pure on his own, but needs God to rescue him. God was making a promise through Isaac.

Finally, I want to further develop what was going to happen between Isaac and Ishmael. Both are children of Abraham; however, only one would be the promise for the world. Only one had the right to the promised land. The people of Ishmael are blessed by God, and through history, we have seen time and time again this blessing.

Now what does this mean for you and I? It means three things. God took His covenant with Abraham seriously. The Old and New Testaments are declarations that God is using Israel as the symbol and the instrument for mankind. The Church is not part of Israel. Those who think this are sadly mistaken. Israel’s land is God’s land, and He has given it to Israel. Ishmael was blessed, and his descendants are assigned their own blessings. As Christians, we have our own blessings that we need to consider and examine.

As we continue, do not forget this moment. Many political, religious, and social issues stem from a lack of understanding of this simple covenant that God is taking very seriously.

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL

Re-Post Friday

What is the source of conflict? Find out HERE!

A Precious Gem Part VII

We have nearly completed our study into the meaning behind the different gemstones found throughout scripture. In this study, we have been using the root word as well as the scriptural context to determine the meanings. Today, we will be looking at three more gems: jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst.

First, we will look at jacinth. In some translations, this stone is identified as a ligure. However, when you look at the root word, H3958, you see that it is a jacinth, which is a yellow-red to red-brown colored gem, and is first mentioned in Exodus 28:19 as the first stone in the third row of the priest's garments. Due to its color, the biblical symbolism associated with jacinth is fire, judgment, and divine glory. Based on its presence in the High Priest’s garments and the foundations of New Jerusalem found in Revelation 21:20, it suggests divine authority and the eternal covenant between God and His people.

The second stone we will look at today is the agate. The word for agate used in Exodus 28 is H7618, which means “from an unused root (probably identical with that of H7617 through the idea of subdivision into flashes or streamers meaning to flame; a gem (from its sparkle), probably the agate.” Since H7618 stems from H7617, we need to look at this meaning as well. H7617 means, “A primitive root; to transport into captivity:-(bring {away}{carry} carry {away} {lead} lead{away} take) captive({s}) drive (take) away.” In biblical symbolism, agate is associated with strength, stability, and protection.

Finally, we will look at the amethyst. The root word for this gem comes from H2492, which means “a primitive root; properly to bind {firmly}that {is}(by implication) to be (causatively to make) plump; also (through the figurative sense of dumbness) to dream: (cause to) dream ({-er}) be in good {liking} recover.” When looking at the definition of this stone, it is hard to believe that it could possess good qualities; however, since it is included in the High Priest’s garments, there would have to be qualities that God wanted. This is why we also must consider the Biblical symbolism and look at other uses of H2492 in scripture. The earliest use of H2492 is found in Genesis 28:12.

“12 Then he dreamed, and behold, a ladder was set up on the earth, and its top reached to heaven; and there the angels of God were ascending and descending on it.”

Genesis 28 describes God giving a promise to Jacob that his descendants will be numerous and blessed. The next several times that H2492 is used in scripture all focus on Joseph and his dreams. It is through passages such as these that I believe we can find the meaning behind the amethyst, and that is clarity of thought and insight.

These three stones are each unique and possess qualities that can deepen our understanding of God’s characteristics and His promises. Next week, we will look at the fourth and last row of the stones found in the High Priest’s garments.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex

A STUDY IN GENESIS

Chapter 17 has already provided us a remarkable and rather amazing truth that God comes to us, and we cannot come to Him unless He calls us. The first verse also sets the stage for something that is impossible. We are called to live perfect lives. However, God provides. Verses two and forward are God’s answer to the calling in verse one set up by Himself.

Genesis 17:2-8 “And I will make My covenant between Me and you, and will multiply you exceedingly.” 3 Then Abram fell on his face, and God talked with him, saying: 4 “As for Me, behold, My covenant is with you, and you shall be a father of many nations. 5 “No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you a father of many nations. 6 “I will make you exceedingly fruitful; and I will make nations of you, and kings shall come from you. 7 “And I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you in their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and your descendants after you. 8 “Also I give to you and your descendants after you the land in which you are a stranger, all the land of Canaan, as an everlasting possession; and I will be their God.”

The reader might be tempted to just read and continue on, however, they would miss the magnitude of what God is doing here. God is making declarations that are going to shape world history. Let’s start reviewing each of them and see what is being brought to us.

First declaration, God is making a covenant with Abram and Himself. We know from Malachi 3:6 that God does not change, so if He makes a promise, He will keep it. God intends to multiply Abram’s descendants. What is ironic is that at this point, there is only Ishmael. The son of the slave woman, Hagar. As we have already discussed Hagar and the situation that led to Ishmael, I will not digress. Yet, we would be missing a valuable point if we did not identify that Ishmael’s descendants are also part of the blessing that is from God to Abram. Abram means “Exalted Father,” and the descendants of Abram through Ishmael are able to see how their father Abram was indeed loved and blessed by Abram’s Heavenly Father. Some have seen this, but I believe one day many more will.

Yet, we have more. Abraham and Sarah would have a son, and his name will be Isaac. This is the son of Abraham which means the “The Father of Many Nations.” What I find rather remarkable is that Abraham has several children; nevertheless, it is Ishmael and Isaac that the issues are most focused on. It is without question solved by the time you get to the end of Genesis. There is no debate, God chose the free woman and Abraham. The Jewish people come from Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God promises nations and kings from Abraham’s lineage. This lineage is indeed filled with nations and kings, but not as important as one of them. The King of Kings, Jesus the Messiah, would come from Abraham. For the believer in Jesus, we are a new creation, He being our Heavenly father, and in so our spiritual ancestor, in a sense, is Abraham. Some might find it strange that I am phrasing it in such a manner, but this, ironically, is a unique argument through the flesh to argue for something rather spiritual in nature. You see, those that are born again are related to Christ. His ancestry is now ours. This does not mean you as Gentiles (myself included) are now Jews, but rather something else. We are Children of God. God in His sovereignty designed it to be done through the flesh of Abraham. I must admit, this is something I still struggle to understand and recognize as a stumbling block for many who wish to replace Israel. May it never be, the promises to Israel are for Israel and not the Church. Did you know that there are promises to the Church that are not for Israel? Your homework is to go find those promises.

Nevertheless, the final act that we need to recognize is that these promises are forever, and that includes verse 8. The land is for Israel. Enough said on this, Christians who do not understand God’s word will argue for a Palestine; however, what they do not understand is that the land is not up for debate. Christians need to recognize that Israel is God’s land to the people of Israel, the Jewish people. I understand the nation of Israel has persecuted the Church, yet I do not care. My love for the Lord is built on Him, He says love and bless Israel so we love and bless Israel. This does not mean they get a free pass from God’s judgment. This means we are to be about His work, telling them the good news of Jesus Christ, as anyone else. We are all saved by the same faith, but the promises to the Nation of Israel are still present with God today.

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL

Re-Post Friday

The beginning of our study on the book of James! Read it HERE!

Understanding Thanksgiving

For our American readers, tomorrow is a day that we will gather with our friends and family and reflect upon this past year and what we are thankful for. To be honest, I have always liked Thanksgiving, but it wasn’t until our current study on the meaning behind the gems have I truely considered what it means to be thankful.

As we have seen in our current study, it is important to understand the root word. The first time that the word “thanksgiving” is used is in Leviticus 7:12, “12 If he offers it for a thanksgiving, then he shall offer, with the sacrifice of thanksgiving, unleavened cakes mixed with oil, unleavened wafers anointed with oil, or cakes of blended flour mixed with oil.” This passage of scripture dictates the law of peace offerings and the word for “thanksgiving” is H8426, “properly an extension of the {hand} that is (by implication) {avowal} or (usually) adoration; specifically a choir or worshippers:- {confession} (sacrifice of) {praise} thanks ({-giving} offering).”

However, H8426 also comes from H3034, “a primitive root; used only as a denominative from H3027; literally to use (that {is} hold out) the hand; physically to throw (a{stone} an arrow) at or away; especially to revere or worship (with extended hands); intensively to bemoan (by wringing the hands): _ cast (out) (make) confess({-ion}) {praise} {shoot} (give) thank({-ful} {s} -sgiving).”

And now H3027, “a primitive word; a hand (the open one (indicating {power} means 6{direction} {etc.})…{consecrate}.”

So what can we learn when we look at the root words of thanksgiving? We can see that it is an extension of an open hand, to revere or worship, to praise, and to confess. So today, I ask you, is this the attitude that you have towards God? Are you completely beside yourself, wringing your hands so to speak, in praise and confession of your sin? This is how we should come before the Lord, in recognition of His free gift of peace and salvation. So as we all sit around the table and express what we are thankful for, I hope that you look towards the meaning of thankfulness and seek to follow Him.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex

A STUDY IN GENESIS

Today, we examine chapter 17 of Genesis. This chapter has rich depth that we will be in for a few weeks. Nevertheless, we should start with the basics that many people miss. Verse one identifies something rather remarkable that the human race tends to miss.

Genesis 17:1 “When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, “I [am] Almighty God; walk before Me and be blameless.”

We see that God came to Abram. This typology is the same for you and I. We cannot save ourselves even though we might try. We need Jesus Christ to come and rescue us. We can say, thankfully, that He has provided salvation for those who would accept Him. We can be rest assured in that God does what He says He will do. His actions prove just that. Time and time again, God comes to man, man cannot come to God. But verse one is not done here. Examine what God says to Abram.

The New King James translation states “When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, “I [am] Almighty God; walk before Me and be blameless.” While the New American Standard states, “Now when Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, “I am God Almighty; Walk before Me, and be blameless.” The Christian Standard Bible translates it this way, “When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him, saying, “I am God Almighty. Live in my presence and be blameless.” And finally, the King James Version translates it this way, “And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I [am] the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.”

Now why am I showing you the translations? It is not to have a scholarly discussion regarding the translations, but rather to identify the true meaning of what God is saying here. We can be sure that God is saying that He is God. And next God is telling Abram to be without sin. I believe all these translations are correct. God is calling Abram to a life of perfection, God is calling Abram at that moment to be perfect in His presence. We know from Genesis 15 God saw Abram as a saved individual. Genesis 15:6 “And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness.” It was not the law that saved him, that would come 430+ years later. This was faith in a coming Messiah. This was faith in God coming to man.

What does this mean to us today? As previously stated, it means that God must come and save us, but after salvation we are called to live a life of perfection and righteousness. We all know we fail due to our natural state, however God’s actions on the cross and resurrection identify us in the eyes of God as perfect. So when God says, “be perfect” we can say, “we will try” and we should give it our all, but we can be rest assured in His work is what will finish the job. This is why chapter 17 does not end here but continues. Next week we will continue in the chapter and see what God is promising to Abram.

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL

Re-Post Friday

Understanding who our heavenly advocate is. Read it HERE!

A Precious Gem Part VI

We are now six weeks into our study on the different gems and their significance in Scripture. So far, we have covered all the gems found in the first row of the breast piece of judgment worn by the priests. Today, we are going to look at the next row and determine what these stones significance could be.

“18 the second row shall be a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond;”

Exodus 28:18

Out of the three stones found in the second row, we have already discussed the significance of sapphire. Due to it being used in Exodus 24:9-10, we have determined that the meaning behind the sapphire is that of promise. This leaves us with just two stones to discuss today.

First, we will look at the turquoise. The root word for turquoise here is H5306, which is defined as “from an unused root meaning to glisten; shining; a (gem) probably the garnet:-emerald” and is only used four times in scripture; Exodus 28:18, Exodus 39:11, Ezekiel 27:16, and Ezekiel 28:13. When you look at these verses, you see that it is listed as a trade good or a gem that is used as adornments. This is why this gem is typically associated with beauty, wealth, and divine favor. However, based on its use in scripture, I believe that the meaning behind the gem is that of authority.

Now we will look at the diamond. The root word used here is H3095, meaning “(in the sense of hardness), a precious (stone)”. However, this stems from another word, H1986, which means “A primitive root; to strike down; by implication to (hammer) stamp, conquer, disband-beat (down) break (down) (overcome) smite (with a hammer)”. So already we can see that the stone described is an exceptionally hard one, much like the diamond that we would think of today. Based on the root word, we can determine that the meaning associated with diamonds is strength.

As we continue to study these incredible symbols of God’s design, let’s not take for granted His word that helps us understand His intentions. God intended this to be a part of the priestly ornaments. This is done so that we can see the deeper message that God is trying to teach us. The natural design of these stones and God’s use of them exemplifies His complete control over the minor details. We have an incredible God who loves His children, let us be thankful in this time to see how much thought He has put into providing lessons for us.

Next week, we will take a look at the third row of stones found in the priestly garments.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex

Requesting Prayer for Our Team

Today, we are going to take a break from our study in Genesis and ask for something we periodically ask of our readers. We are asking for your prayers! God is doing incredibly mighty things in the lives of the staff, and we cherish your prayers. The power of prayer is a real thing and is wholly under-sought in the body of Christ. Philippians 4:6, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” While many will not know the specifics of what we are praying for, we ask that you take time this coming week and pray for His will and for a quick answer for our staff. God is good, and we know that He will understand your prayers. As Paul writes in Romans 8:26, “Likewise, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”

God knows your heart and knows that your prayers for us are incredible and something we take very seriously and with all joy.

Thank you from Mill House Ministries Staff!

Re-Post Friday

Understanding the importance of the Old Testament. Read it HERE!