The story found of Exodus 32 in the Bible describes when Moses went up mount Sinai to receive the ten commandments from God, he was away for 40 days and night. The Israelites asked Aaron to make them a new god while Moses was away. He took their golden earrings and other jewelry and made a golden calf from them. The golden calf was an idol that the people worshiped instead of the real God. Moses then ordered the Levites to kill those who had participated in the worship of the golden calf, resulting in the death of 3,000 men. God then brought a plague upon the Israelites, further punishing them for their sin of idolatry. This is not the only story that heeds us warning of worshiping false idols. After the Israelites entered the Promised Land, they often strayed from worshipping the true God and began worshipping the gods of the Canaanites, leading to their downfall and eventual exile. The book of 1st & 2nd Kings talks about this, time and time again, providing us with prime examples of what not to do. How does all this scripture correlate to today? Do people still worship false idols and golden calves? We may not have massive golden statues we bow down to daily ( though some do), however we do have idols. In the Bible, an idol is defined as anything that takes the place of God as the most important focus and priority in one’s life. Whether it’s a physical object, a person, or an idea, it all represents a misdirection of worship. A reliance on something other than the true God for blessing, help, or guidance. Anything and everything that takes focus away from God can become an idol. A new job, a favorite hobby, games, television, books, social media, sports, etc.. The list can go on and on, to no end.
The Bible strongly condemns idolatry, as it is seen as a violation of the first commandment “You shall have no other gods before me.”. How important it must have been to declare it as the very first commandment. While the concept of idolatry may seem outdated, it remains relevant in modern society, where people can easily become attached to things or ideas that overshadow their relationship with God. The Bible emphasizes that God is the only one worthy of our worship and reverence. It warns with great detail, the consequences for those who do not follow His orders. Do you have an idol in your life today? Could you possibly do something different to refocus your attention on God. I challenge you today to redirect your thoughts and actions back to Father. Get rid of the idols in your life and give your life back to God where it belongs. I am reminded of Matthew 7:21-23;
21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
22 Many will say to me on that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
How awful would it be to hear God say this? Where are you with your walk with our heavenly Father? Would He know you by name or would you plead for His remembrance? The choice is yours, it’s always been your choice. Who do you choose?
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. James 1:12 KJV https://bible-strong.app
James 1 KJV 1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.
2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.
8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
9 Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:
10 But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.
11 For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways.
12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.
17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.
22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.
27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
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One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple. Psalms 27:4 KJV https://bible-strong.app
Psalms 27 A Psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.
3 Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.
4 One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.
5 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.
6 And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.
7 Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
8 When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek.
9 Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
10 When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up.
11 Teach me thy way, O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.
12 Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
13 I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.
14 Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
This marvelous tree can be found in the rainforests of the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. The Rainbow Eucalyptus can grow as high as 250 feet with a diameter of up to six feet. It displays wonderful colors as the bark peels away in strips to reveal a canvas of green, red, orange, gray, and purplish brown hues. The shedding process reveals new colors and patterns, uniquely striking each tree. This color change and its towering height and large circumstance make it a true natural wonder. The ecological role of the rainbow eucalyptus is multifaceted. Its rapid growth and large size make it vital for maintaining the structural integrity of the rainforest. It offers habitat and nourishment to a myriad of species, from the microorganisms that feed on its decaying leaves to birds that nest in its lofty branches. Importantly, its roots help stabilize the soil, preventing erosion and maintaining watershed health.
The traveller’s tree gets its name from its breathtaking (and almost ridiculous) fan of leaves, which is reputed to orientate itself so consistently that it can be used as a compass. The fan of leaves tends to grow roughly on an east-west line, which some believe can serve as a crude compass for travelers. An outgrown relative of the Bird of Paradise flower, the traveller’s tree has large, bright turquoise blue seeds that are covered by a fuzzy aril that is edible. The plant’s name comes from the fact that the cupped bases of its leaves can hold rainwater, which travelers have historically used as a source of drinking water.
The sandbox tree is a large tree in the spurge family and native through most of tropical America. This tree is among the largest trees of tropical America and is interesting for its pumpkin-shaped seed capsules that explode with a loud report, scattering the seeds. Sandbox trees have poisonous leaves, bark, and seeds and the explosions of their capsules, which have enough force to injure persons or livestock, can be deadly. The sandbox tree is nearly 100 feet tall with a girth of more than 3.3 feet. The trunk is studded with short conical prickles. The long-stalked dark-green leaves cover a round-crowned high-branching tree. The globose seed capsules are 3 inches in diameter and were used in colonial British West Indies as sandboxes for blotting ink. Some indigenous groups mix the poisonous latex with sand to stupefy fish.
The jabuticaba tree, also known as the Brazilian grape tree, is a unique tropical plant native to southeastern Brazil. It is famous for its fruit growing directly on the trunk and branches, resembling purple warts when in season. Jabuticaba trees thrive in humid climates and prefer moist, rich, slightly acidic soil. These trees are slow-growing, taking 8-10 years to produce their first fruits. The sweet, juicy berries are edible and can be eaten raw or used to make jams, jellies, juices, and even wine. They are packed with nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The fruit provides a vital food source for many animals, including birds, monkeys, and bats, and the tree’s dense foliage provides habitat and shelter for wildlife. In Brazil, the jabuticaba tree is an important cultural symbol, often featured in traditional folklore and local dishes and drinks. The name “jabuticaba” is derived from the Tupi word “jabuti” (tortoise) and “caba” (place), meaning “place of the tortoise”.
The boojum tree and little known trees native to the Baja California and Sonora regions of Mexico. It thrives in arid desert environments. It stands out among the other desert plants with its unique silhouette. It’s shaped like an upside-down carrot with skinny branches reaching skyward. One of the most interesting adaptations of boojum is how it stores water. The plant’s trunk gets bigger at the base, forming a bulb shape that holds water during periods of drought. Boojum can survive in the desert without rain for a long time, which is important for its survival. Boojums are dormant during the warmer months. During the winter, boojums grow very slowly, adding only about 2 inches to their height each year. The Boojum tree may look a bit bare with its skinny branches and small leaves, but when it flowers it is a sight to behold. As they break dormancy in late summer to early fall, clusters of tubular flowers pop up from the tips of its branches. The blooms paint the desert landscape with subtle colors of white and pink.
I have a handful of activities that I lose myself in, which may seem like a lot but in the grand scheme of things, it is a miniscule number. First and foremost I enjoy getting lost in the moment with my family. I am creating memories that will hopefully last a lifetime. My children are only little for a little while so I try to make the most of it. One day this leisure will be gone and transformed into something different based on the ever changing circumstances. Just like a child reaching each milestone the experiences shape and change each day, never to be visited again for most of them. Each second is a moment in time to never get back This is by far my favorite pastime.
Second would be writing of course. I am a quiet, introverted person who despises crowds and small talk. Writing allows me to share the thousands of conversations or thoughts that occupy my mind and at any given moment. It also helps to me sort through emotions and understand the world around me. Writing is a brain exercise that releases something in a way that is hard to describe. By writing, the ink on the pages takes the weight of the world, each letter weighing more than meets the eye. Writing has always been a part of me and I think always will.
Third would be reading. I can mentally jump into a story and see every aspect. The world fades away and I am absorbed into the scenes. I love psychological thrillers that keep me on the edge of my seat and have me anticipating the next page. I adore historical literature that tells forgotten stories of a simpler time. I have traveled to foreign lands and sat with great queens and kings. I have danced with fairies in the gardens and traveled to worlds unknown. I have witnessed magical powers and watched potions save the day. With a story, a new perspective is just a sentence away.
Lastly, I enjoy coloring. The act of picking the perfect color for anything brings me great joy. The only thing that could possibly make it better is if the color has tons and tons of sparkles. Glittery gel pens are my go to for an eye pleasing pop of color.
These are the things that I become lost in and evidently, discover myself in as well.
I have always loved the stars and typically track meteor showers and eclipses. The Bible talks about how God hung the stars in the sky for us. I now can pass my love for stars to my children and often have them outside to watch the spectacles. I even bought my son a telescope a few years ago mainly so I could use it also 🤣. Last night was no different as I perched myself just right to view God’s amazing work. I didn’t capture totality and I am no photographer but here are a few pictures I really like.
After all the hype and excitement my five year old daughter looks at me and says, “Your telling me all we are looking at is a shadow on the moon.” She was not impressed 🤣. I wished I could have gotten better pictures, maybe next time. Thanks for reading and God bless.
Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 2 Corinthians 1:3 KJV https://bible-strong.app
II Chronicles 1 1 And Solomon the son of David was strengthened in his kingdom, and the LORD his God was with him, and magnified him exceedingly.
2 Then Solomon spake unto all Israel, to the captains of thousands and of hundreds, and to the judges, and to every governor in all Israel, the chief of the fathers.
3 So Solomon, and all the congregation with him, went to the high place that was at Gibeon; for there was the tabernacle of the congregation of God, which Moses the servant of the LORD had made in the wilderness.
4 But the ark of God had David brought up from Kirjathjearim to the place which David had prepared for it: for he had pitched a tent for it at Jerusalem.
5 Moreover the brasen altar, that Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, had made, he put before the tabernacle of the LORD: and Solomon and the congregation sought unto it.
6 And Solomon went up thither to the brasen altar before the LORD, which was at the tabernacle of the congregation, and offered a thousand burnt offerings upon it.
7 In that night did God appear unto Solomon, and said unto him, Ask what I shall give thee.
8 And Solomon said unto God, Thou hast shewed great mercy unto David my father, and hast made me to reign in his stead.
9 Now, O LORD God, let thy promise unto David my father be established: for thou hast made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude.
10 Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, that is so great?
11 And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honour, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king:
12 Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like.
13 Then Solomon came from his journey to the high place that was at Gibeon to Jerusalem, from before the tabernacle of the congregation, and reigned over Israel.
14 And Solomon gathered chariots and horsemen: and he had a thousand and four hundred chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen, which he placed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem.
15 And the king made silver and gold at Jerusalem as plenteous as stones, and cedar trees made he as the sycomore trees that are in the vale for abundance.
16 And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: the king’s merchants received the linen yarn at a price.
17 And they fetched up, and brought forth out of Egypt a chariot for six hundred shekels of silver, and an horse for an hundred and fifty: and so brought they out horses for all the kings of the Hittites, and for the kings of Syria, by their means.
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV https://bible-strong.app
I Corinthians 10 1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;
2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat;
4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.
5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
7 Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.
8 Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.
9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.
10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.
11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.
13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
14 Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.
15 I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.
16 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?
17 For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.
18 Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar?
19 What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing?
20 But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.
21 Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils.
22 Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he?
23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.
24 Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth.
25 Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking no question for conscience sake:
26 For the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.
27 If any of them that believe not bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed to go; whatsoever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience sake.
28 But if any man say unto you, This is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof:
29 Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my liberty judged of another man’s conscience?
30 For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks?
31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
32 Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God:
33 Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.
