Month: June 2017

  • The Superiority of Women?

    We don't read in many Protestant circles the Apocryphal books unless we might minister in Anglican, or Catholic settings. However, this passage was brought to my attention the other day in speaking toward the subject of the superiority of women. This passage I mention is the third response from some young men who are asked to give statements to clarify their statements. The third one by Zerubbabel is extremely profound in many ways. Let me know your thoughts on this passage.

    We have been discussing " RESPECT " in some of our CGMF bible study groups, and the lack thereof considering this generation toward, fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, etc.. This passage came out of nowhere in that discussion.

    13 Then the third young man, Zerubbabel, who had spoken of women and truth, began to speak: 14 “Gentlemen, isn’t the king great, aren’t men abundant, and isn’t wine strong? Who is it, though, that masters them or rules over them? Isn’t it women? 15 Women give birth to the king and to all the people who rule over the sea and land. 16 From women they all are born. It was women who brought up those men who plant the vineyards from which wine is produced.
    17 “Women make men’s clothes. They bring men honor. Without women, men aren’t even able to exist. 18 If men gather gold and silver or any valuable thing, and then see a desirable and beautiful woman, 19 they forget everything to gaze at her. With mouths wide open, they stare at her. All choose her over gold, silver, or any other valuable thing. 20 A man leaves his own father, who raised him, and his own country, and clings to his own wife. 21 With his wife he departs this life, with no memory of his father or mother or country. 22 Therefore, surely you must recognize that women rule over you!

    1 Esdras 4:13-22 CEB

     

     

  • Position, Prayer and Strategy.

    Really liked my morning devotion for today.
    Pray all my facebook friends have a grand day.
    June 21: Position, Prayer, and Strategy
    Nehemiah 1:1–3:32; 1 John 4:13–15; Psalm 108:1–13
    Trying to make a difference in the world can be disheartening; it’s easy to feel like merely a drop in the bucket.
    When Nehemiah first heard about the suffering of His people, he could have been discouraged. When he learned that the returned exiles were “in great trouble and shame,” living in a city with no walls (Neh 1:3), he could have said, “I’d love to help, but what can I do from this far away?” Instead, he decided to take action (Neh 1:3), and he did so thoughtfully. Rather than making a rash decision, he prayed (Neh 1:4–8). He then volunteered to be the one to help God’s people (Neh 1:9–11), even though doing so meant risking his life.
    As the cupbearer to the king, Nehemiah recognized his unique place of influence and acted upon it (Neh 2:1–3). He chose to appear saddened before the most powerful man in the world by hanging his head. His actions could have been perceived as a sign of disrespect, which was punishable by severe beatings and even death. But God protected Nehemiah, and the king honored his request (Neh 2:4–6).
    Nehemiah’s initial actions show his character, but his later actions show his leadership. He moved from being a man of influence to a man of strategy. Immediately upon arriving in the city, Nehemiah inspected the city walls, found the craftsman, and began his work (Neh 2:11–3:32). He realized the urgency of his task; his people needed this wall to survive against the surrounding nations.
    Nehemiah’s story offers an example of identifying providence, responding to the pain of others through prayer, and acting strategically. It’s a lesson in what it means to be a leader who follows God’s leadership. Nehemiah stands as an example of one who takes action that is well-researched, strategic, and prayerful.
    What are some ways you are providentially positioned to do God’s work? How have you led while following His leadership?
    John D. Barry