Category: Journey through Psalms

A walk through of Psalms with commentary.

Halloween, Jack-O-Lanterns, and the Christian Call to Be Set Apart

Halloween, Jack-O-Lanterns, and the Christian Call to Be Set Apart

In one of my letter conversations that I had with two Mormon Missionaries I mentioned the story of the gourd. It was inspired by a telling of a personal antidote from a speaker at a conference that I attended. The speaker was an African missionary, and he told a story of his first trip to America. It was in October and the celebration of Halloween was in full swing. Coincidentally, it was also October this time around when I had the honor of hearing him speak.

On his missionary journey here to the Americas he was speaking at various churches and conferences. Informing the western church of what was happening in the African church. On his first trip ever to America, specifically the United States, he was traveling with the host pastor of the conference. They went to visit a few of the folks who were unable to get to church for various reasons.

At several of the stops there was Halloween decor on the outside of the home, including carved pumpkins, otherwise known as Jack-O-Lanterns. The missionary didn’t say anything, keeping quiet about the pumpkins and Halloween decor. It was when they arrived at the pastors house and the missionary saw pumpkins on pastor’s doorstep that the missionary finally succumbed to his emotions.

His countenance shown in his face, that of a man of sorrow. The pastor asked him what was the matter? To which the missionary said, “I cannot believe that Christians in America, would light the gourd. The pastor brushed it off as though the missionary just didn’t understand American culture and that this tradition was simply harmless fun.

I didn’t have full context when I heard this story. In fact had you asked me of my opinion on Halloween before walking in to hear the missionary I probably would have sounded like the host pastor. But something struck me hearing the missionary recount the story. That year I told my family we weren’t going to carve the pumpkins that we had already purchased. We didn’t and I haven’t since.

As I studied more on the subject I discovered the source of the missionaries grief. And I understood the severity of appearances. Psalm 1 is as good of place as any (there are plenty to turn to) to capture the essence of what the missionary and now I feel.

Psalm 1

1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. 2 But his delight is in the Instruction of Yahweh, and on His law he meditates day and night. 3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does. 4 Not so the wicked! For they are like chaff driven off by the wind. 5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. 6 For Yahweh guards the path of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.

The ties of the gourd to witchcraft, witchdoctors, and secret society are numerous. Here’s just a snapshot. These examples come from the History Channel, and the Encyclopedia Brittanica websites.

Concerning the missionary and his grief over the lighted gourd I found this information particularly enlightening. While a “lighted gourd tax” is not a continent-wide anthropological term, the missionary was likely describing a localized practice from regions and countries of West Africa (e.g., Nigeria, Cameroon) or the Congo Basin. If my memory serves me here it is my recollection that he was indeed from the Congo; but I am not exactly sure.

  • The Spiritual “Tax” (Tribute): In many historical contexts, certain powerful secret societies (like the Ekpe or Leopard Societies in West Africa) or corrupt spiritual practitioners operated as shadow governments, this included witchdoctors who were considered spiritual leaders.
  • The Tribute: They demanded regular tributes of food, livestock, or goods from villages. If a village or household refused to pay, they were threatened with curses, illnesses, or physical raids by the society’s masked enforcers.
  • The Gourd as a Receipt: Dried gourds (calabashes) were widely used as containers for sacred medicine, charms, or shrines. These were specifically used in witchcraft, occult practices, and by witchdoctors. When a family or village paid their required tribute, the witchdoctor would often leave a designated charm or marked item at the entrance of the compound.
  • A traditional oil lamp: Hollowed-out gourds were frequently used as primitive lanterns or oil lamps. Placing a lit gourd lamp outside a dwelling served as a visible, night-time receipt showing the compound was under the “protection” of the witchdoctor and should not be harassed.

Now knowing this information wouldn’t change much of a western christian’s mind. Especially one who enjoys the spirit of Halloween. The argument could be made that this is a cultural expression separate from western culture all together. But do most ‘christians’ know the origins of the pumpkin, also known as a Jack-O-Lantern? Again, the following examples are taken from the History Channel and the Encyclopedia Brittanica websites.

Halloween’s Jack-O-Lantern

  • The tradition of the jack-o’-lantern comes from an Irish folktale about a mischievous man named “Stingy Jack” and ancient Celtic harvest customs.
  • Trickster’s Fate: According to Irish folklore, Stingy Jack tricked the Devil multiple times. When Jack died, God refused him entry into heaven, and the Devil—keeping his promise not to claim Jack’s soul—turned him away from hell as well.
  • The Wandering Ember: The Devil sent Jack into the dark night with only a burning coal for light. Jack placed the coal inside a hollowed-out turnip and has been condemned to roam the Earth ever since, becoming known as “Jack of the Lantern”
  • Samhain Festival: The custom is tied to the ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain, when people believed the boundary between the living and the dead is blurred.
  • Moving to America: During the 1840s Great Potato Famine, Irish and Scottish immigrants brought the tradition to North America.
  • Why Pumpkins: Immigrants discovered that American pumpkins were much larger, softer, and easier to carve than turnips. The carved pumpkin quickly evolved into a staple decoration of modern Halloween. Even taking on the name Jack-O-Lantern.

With all the other aspects of Halloween, the idea that westernized christianity is ok it baffles me. Although, I also see its allure since for most of my life I also celebrated it. However, once the veil was removed from my eyes there was no way I could justify my compromising belief. My hypocritical belief to be more specific. Since then my love for Yahoshua has only grown with a desire to live for Him.

As Yahoshua said, “The greatest commandment is this: To love Yahweh your Elohim with all your heart, soul, mind and strength.” To share any part of that with anything remotely evil, pagan, or of the occult, is unthinkable. Still, Yahoshua didn’t stop there He continued, “And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. And all the Torah and Prophets hang on these two.”

How can I say that I love God and participate in a man made tradition. Even more, one that is so intertwined with evil it can’t separated which leads to compromise. Moreover, how can I say I love my neighbor while causing they to stumble. Living in a place of compromise does not show compassion to the lost. No, if anything it sets up a lifestyle of compromise that makes it easier to turn to worldly tradition than to God’s Instruction.

Part of living in Covenant with Elohim is abstaining from evil, shunning it really. God does not play around. Is He patient? Yes! Is He forgiving? Absolutely! Is He unchanging? You better believe it! Hebrews 13:8 tells us, “Yahoshua Messiah, is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Yahoshua, is the Word made flesh, He is the Living Torah, the Manifestation of God’s Instruction. And Yahoshua says:

21Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Adonai, Adonai,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Adonai, Adonai, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ 23Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!’

That word lawlessness, is to say, ‘without Torah. So to be clear, Yahoshua says, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who are without Torah.” Which brings us back to Psalm 1.

1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. 2 But his delight is in the Instruction of Yahweh, and on His law he meditates day and night. 3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does. 4 Not so the wicked! For they are like chaff driven off by the wind. 5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. 6 For Yahweh guards the path of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.

It is time to come back to the Feasts of God and turn from the traditions of man, including all of mans pagan rooted holidays.

Keep Reading: Samhain, Halloween and the Church: Testing Tradition by Scripture

You are loved, cj

He Will Never Fail You: Trust, Obedience, and Psalm 118 Hope

He Will Never Fail You: Trust, Obedience, and Psalm 118 Hope

He will never fail you or abandon you. He, is God, and His promises are true.

Give thanks to Adonai, for He is good, for His grace endures forever.
Now let Israel say, “His grace endures forever.”
Now let the house of Aaron say, “His grace endures forever.”
Now let those who fear Adonai say, “His grace endures forever.”

From my being hemmed in I called on Yah; He answered and gave me more room.
With Adonai on my side, I fear nothing – what can human beings do to me?
With Adonai on my side as my help, I will look with triumph at those who hate me.

It is better to take refuge in Adonai than to trust in human beings;
better to take refuge in Adonai than to put one’s trust in princes.

The nations all surrounded me; in the name of Adonai I cut them down.
They surrounded me on every side in the name of Adonai I cut them down.
They surrounded me like bees but were extinguished [as quickly] as fire in thorns;
in the name of Adonai I cut them down.

You pushed me hard to make me fall, but Adonai helped me.
Yah is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation.
Psalm 118:1-14

As the world steps more and more into uncertainty let me remind us; those of us who call on the name of Yahoshua Messiah (Jesus), who seek the Father by way of His Son; we CAN rest in His promise that He will never fail us or abandon us. Psalm 118 is a great reminder of this and it begins by reminding us that we need to GIVE THANKS to Adonai, for HE IS GOOD, for HIS GRACE ENDURES FOREVER.

This understanding goes back, way – way back. We see it present through out Genesis and throughout the succession of leadership. Moses said to Joshua, “Be strong, be bold, for you are going with this people into the land Adonai promised to their ancestors He would give them. You will be the one causing them to inherit it. But Adonai – it is He who will go ahead of you. He will be with you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you, so don’t be afraid or downhearted.” Deuteronomy 31:7-8

This is the message many Christians love to repeat, and it is true. However, each time this promise is given there is a reminder, just as Elohim tells Joshua; “Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will neither fail you nor abandon you. Be strong, be bold; for you will cause this people to inherit the land I swore to their fathers I would give them. Only be strong and very bold in taking care TO FOLLOW ALL THE TORAH (Instruction) which Moses My servant ordered you to follow; do not turn from it either to the right or the left; then you will succeed wherever you go. Yes, keep this book of the Instruction (Torah) on your lips, and meditate on it day and night, so that you will take care to act according to everything written in it. Then your undertakings will prosper, and you will succeed. Haven’t I ordered you, ‘Be strong, be bold?’ So don’t be afraid or downhearted, because Adonai your Elohim is with you wherever you go.” So He tells you and i.

Psalm 118 continues:
The sound of rejoicing and victory
is heard in the tents of the righteous:
“Adonai’s right hand struck powerfully!
Adonai’s right hand is raised in triumph!
Adonai’s right hand struck powerfully!”

I will not die; no, I will live and proclaim the great deeds of Yah!
Yah disciplined me severely, but did not hand me over to death.

Open the gates of righteousness for me; I will enter them and thank Yah.
This is the gate of Adonai; the righteous can enter it.
I am thanking You because You answered me; You became my Salvation.

The very rock that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone!
This has come from Adonai, and in our eyes it is amazing.
This is the day Adonai has made, a day for us to rejoice and be glad.
Psalm 118:15-24

A few things to point out here as this Psalm is so rich in content. Joshua son of Nun, was originally named Hoshea, that was his birth name. Names have meaning and significance throughout Scripture and cultures for that matter. Hoshea, means ‘Salvation’. When Hoshea’s name was changed it was changed to Yahoshua, meaning, YAH is Salvation. This is significant in that it is the story of redemption told in a single name. Man cannot save themselves, we need a savior. Yah is our salvation. This name of course would come back into play, as Yahoshua son of Nun led the Israelites into the promised land so Yahoshua the Son of Elohim, leads His people into the Kingdom.

Righteous or righteousness as defined by Scripture means; one who is obedient to the instruction of Elohim. Another way to say it, ‘those things commanded by Elohim to be obeyed by man’. This didn’t change under the new covenant as the new covenant is simply the ‘old’ covenant written on our hearts. It is written there by the Holy Spirit, through the finishing work of Yahoshua, Yah’s Salvation, the Word made flesh as John writes in his gospel recording.

Yahoshua does not diminish the responsibility for obedience. He made several references to the ongoing need to walk according to the commands of Elohim. Matthew records Messiah saying: “Don’t think that I have come to abolish the Torah (Instructions of Elohim) or the Prophets. I have come not to abolish but to bring to fullness. Yes indeed! I tell you that until heaven and earth pass away, not so much as a dot or a stroke will pass from the Torah – not until everything that must happen has happened. So whoever disobeys the least of these commandments and teaches others to do will be called least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But whoever obeys them and so teaches will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven.” (Matthew 5:17-19)

Yahoshua Messiah also said:

“But why do you call Me ‘Adonai, Adonai,’ and not do the things which I say?” Luke 6:46

“If you love Me, you will obey My commandments.  I will ask the Father, and he will give you another helper who will be with you forever.  That helper is the Spirit of Truth. The world cannot accept him, because it doesn’t see or know him. You know him, because he lives with you and will be in you.” John 14:15-17

Remember that Yahoshua is the WORD made flesh, He is the Torah, He is the written instruction and He is commanding us to obey. Not without help, He is providing the Holy Spirit who not only writes the instruction on our hearts but also enables us to live obedient lives IF we listen, for He doesn’t force obedience, He encourages it. Even more of His own He demands it.

Some say it is too hard to keep the commands of Elohim. Yet, we read in His word that His Word is not too cumbersome. Who is telling the truth, man or God? There is only one right answer, “Let God be true, even if every man is a liar.” Psalm 118 concludes:

Please, Adonai! Save us! Please, Adonai! Rescue us!
Blessed is he who comes in the name of Adonai. We bless you from the house of Adonai.

Adonai is God, and He gives us light. Join the pilgrim festival with branches all the way to the horns of the altar.

You are my God, and I thank You. You are my God; I exalt You.
Give thanks to Adonai; for He is good, for His grace endures forever.
Psalm 118:25-29

The writer of Hebrews records this in the thirteenth chapter beginning with verse five; “Keep your lives from the love of money; and be satisfied with what you have; for God Himself has said, ‘I will never fail you or abandon you.’ Therefore, we say with confidence, ‘Adonai is my HELPER; I will NOT be afraid – what can a human being do to me?'”

By God’s grace He has made away for salvation through His Son Yahoshua. Yah is Salvation, for all those who call upon the Name of Adonai Yahoshua Messiah. The very Word made flesh, who like the finger of Elohim, wrote the Ten Commandments on tablets of stone, so too He writes the Commandments of God on our hearts. Who then shall we fear? We trust only in the God of Heaven, by faith in Messiah Yahoshua, guided by the Holy Spirit – the promised HELPER.

Trust and Obey for there’s no other way to be happy in Yahoshua, than to trust and obey.

You are loved,
cj

The Transformative Power of Music: Healing Through Frequency

The Transformative Power of Music: Healing Through Frequency

Most people who know me, know that I love music. Once, I was out to dinner and the conversation was on music. I was asked, “What about you?” I responded, “I just like live music.” To clarify, it is music of all sorts. It could be a guy on the corner playing a one string guitar, I would stop and listen. If someone is doing what they love and making music to entertain others, I appreciate it. I appreciate them and I show it by stopping and listening and if they are asking I give them money.

I recently stumbled upon a young composer named Jacob Collier . . . a brilliant musical mind, almost too brilliant, really. I was watching one of his teaching sessions from Australia and this quote from him hit me. So, I thought I would pass it on here with a note. He said, “As a teacher, as a performer, as a parent, you are only as powerful as you make other people feel.” It reminded me of the golden rule. “Do unto others what you would have them do to you.” Or “Love your neighbor as yourself.” These principles are what make a person successful. Life is about relationships, be relational, be intentional, love always, forgive often.

I don’t know about power or making people feel powerful, but forgiven, loved, hopeful, encouraged. These are right and good. Music, is a powerful influencer. Frequencies, are known to heal and harm. Now I don’t know enough about it to tell you anything specific or matter-a-fact. But, different frequencies have been used scientifically to influence the mind and body. Researchers at MIT and the National Institute of Health have articles on the subject if the idea intrigues you beyond what I have to say here.

As well, people have been influenced by the music they listen to throughout time. Young David, would play the harp before King Saul when he was being tormented and it would sooth his spirit. 1 Samuel 16:22-23 – “Then Saul sent word to Jesse, saying, ‘Let David remain in my service, for I am pleased with him.’ And whenever the spirit from God came upon Saul, David would pick up his harp and play. Then Saul would find relief and feel better, and the spirit of distress would depart from him.”

Some believe that music is a form of spell casting, or that it can be used in such away. Jacob Collier, mentioned above said that when he was a kid he would watch his mother conduct the orchestra and that it looked like she was casting a spell. He was referring to her hand gestures and the way her body moved as she conducted. He described it as ‘mesmerizing’. Music is a powerful tool.

It is often depicted as a choir of angels appearing to the shepherds in the field to tell them that Yahoshua (Jesus) was born. The actual reference in Luke 2:13-14 says: “And suddenly there appeared with the angel a great multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying: ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests!‘” The word ‘lego’ being translated here as ‘saying‘ according to Strongs G3004 means exactly that, ‘say, speak, call, tell’. It is the same word legō that is used in Revelation 4:8 which tells of the angels around the Throne of God. “And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and within, and day and night they never cease to say, “Holy, holy, holy, is Adonai Elohim Almighty, who was and is and is to come!”

There are plenty of musicians who incorporate the spoken word into musical rhythms. So I don’t say this to detract from the idea of music but perhaps to more focus on the frequency than how the words of a melody are presented. One thing that fascinated me about Jacob Collier is his ability to create melody with the voices of people who had no idea he was going to do such a thing. At a jazz festival, he got the audience involved with just their voices, no knowledge before hand, no script, he just simply gave them the example. He gave out different parts to sections of the audience and then by simply gesturing to them he created a melodic sound so captivating the people were left in awe. That is the power of music, melody, and frequency.

It is said that Satan, aka Lucifer, was the choir director or orchestra conductor in heaven before his fall. Whether or not this true there isn’t definitive proof. However, in Ezekiel 28 there is perhaps a hint. A hint great enough to create the theory. Ezekiel is directed by Elohim to write a lament for the king of Tyre. Ezekiel 28:11-15 says:

“Again the word of Yahweh came to me, saying, “Son of man, take up a lament for the king of Tyre and tell him that this is what Yahweh Elohim says: ‘You were the seal of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. You were in Eden, the garden of God. Every kind of precious stone adorned you: ruby, topaz, and diamond, beryl, onyx, and jasper, sapphire, turquoise, and emerald. Your mountings and settings were crafted in gold, the workmanship of your timbrels and of your pipes were prepared in you in the day that you were created, prepared on the day of your creation. You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for I had ordained you. You were on the holy mountain of God; you walked among the fiery stones. From the day you were created you were blameless in your ways—until wickedness was found in you.”

Timbrels: Translated from a Hebrew word (toph) typically meaning a hand drum, tambourine, or percussive instrument.
Pipes: Translated from a less clear Hebrew word (neqeb) that some scholars and historic translations interpret as flutes, wind instruments, or hollow cavities meant for sound.

Understanding now both the beauty Lucifer is described with and the potential ability to conduct music, one can see how great the potential for pride there was. Look at the music industry today, the pride, and the superficial emphasis on beauty. There are very few ‘ugly’ frontmen in the music industry. Obviously, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and I am not saying they don’t exist but they are far and few between. Forest Frank, not too long ago ruffled a few feathers when he refused to attend an award show and receive an award for his music. Essentially saying, he didn’t want the credit for his music but rather that the glory should go to God alone. Needless to say that was not a popular opinion amongst his peers.

Music is powerful, it is seducing in its appeal, it draws the heart and the mind. If the theory of Satan/Lucifer is true and he was the director/conductor of music we can certainly see how it was possible to draw a third of the angels with him. A third is not a small number. If someone is polling at 33% they are considered a threat in politics. There had to be some sort of influence being wielded about to garner 33% allegiance from his fellow angels. Strong enough to cause them to join his rebellion. Imagine that if you will and then consider what influence music has over you.

As I stated in the beginning, I love music. I enjoy listening to live music. I will go out of my way to support musicians. Especially, if I know them and if their music lightens my mood. I often play soft jazz in the background at work. I call it my serenity music in the midst of chaos. I certainly notice when it isn’t playing and there is a higher level of stress in the work place. So perhaps I am simply writing to myself, to caution myself to the power of music, to its influential powers, and hypnotic potential. As they say, ‘garbage in, garbage out.’

So, I am constantly asking Adonai to fill me with His melody. To place His song in my heart and mind and lips. As the Psalmist says 48:1-5:

I waited patiently for Adonai;
And He inclined to me and heard my cry.
2 He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay,
And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm.
3 He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God;
Many will see and fear
And will trust in Adonai.

4 How blessed is the man who has made Adonai his trust,
And has not turned to the proud, nor to those who lapse into falsehood.
5 Many, O Adonai my God, are the wonders which You have done,
And Your thoughts toward us;
There is none to compare with You.
If I would declare and speak of them,
They would be too numerous to count.

May our hearts cry, be that Adonai Elohim fill us with His song, His music, His lyric, His melody, His frequency, that we would not be influenced by the worlds music but by His alone. May we seek to love our neighbors, to do for others what we would have them do for us. To seek first the Kingdom of Elohim and His righteousness. To live out the example set out for us in Messiah. Above all, to love Elohim with our whole heart, soul, mind, and strength. Singing unto Him all the praise and honor due His Name.

You are loved,
cj

Breaking Free from Legalism: Embracing Messiah’s Love

Breaking Free from Legalism: Embracing Messiah’s Love

When taking your relationship with Messiah from a religion to a relationship, one by necessity strips off the man made traditions. This is an important first step. One then begins to learn to walk in relationship with Messiah. However, in our humanity we still make this about ourselves, our comforts, our desires, our feelings, me, me me, I and me again. We look at all that Yahoshua (Jesus) did for us, how he suffered the most horrific torturous death imaginable. Then we say to ourselves, “He did this so that I don’t have to keep the law.” Say that out-loud and tell me it doesn’t sound like you are in an abusive relationship. Now look deeper into it and tell me who is the abuser?

I do not reject God’s gracious gift; for if the way in which one attains righteousness is through legalism, then the Messiah’s death was pointless.

You stupid Galatians! Who has put you under a spell? Before your very eyes Yahoshua the Messiah was clearly portrayed as having been put to death as a criminal! I want to know from you just this one thing: did you receive the Spirit by legalistic observance of Torah commands or by trusting in what you heard and being faithful to it? Are you that stupid? Having begun with the Spirit’s power, do you think you can reach the goal under your own power?  Have you suffered so much for nothing? If that’s the way you think, your suffering certainly will have been for nothing!  What about God, who supplies you with the Spirit and works miracles among you — does he do it because of your legalistic observance of Torah commands or because you trust in what you heard and are faithful to it?

It was the same with Abraham: “He trusted in God and was faithful to him, and that was credited to his account as righteousness.”  Be assured, then, that it is those who live by trusting and being faithful who are really children of Abraham. (Galatians 2:21-3:7)

When talking about following the commands of God, especially after coming out of religion, many will cry, ‘legalism!’ And they will use Galatians as a point of reference. Followed by something along the lines of, “See, it is about a relationship, not legalistic religion.” And they would be half right. Abraham trusted that what God said, He would do. And based on that trust, that faith, Abraham was obedient to all that God commanded. Paul in his letter to the Galatians goes so far as to call them stupid. Why? Because they began to focus on the observance of Torah outside of trusting in what they had heard and then being faithful to it. You see they were making it about something, rather than someone, and separating the two.

How do I know this? Paul himself tells the Romans this in 6:1-2. “What then shall we say? Shall we continue in sin so that grace may increase? Certainly not! How can we who died to sin live in it any longer?” What is sin? As we have looked at time and time again 1 John 3:4 tells us exactly what sin is: “Everyone who practices sin practices lawlessness as well. Indeed, sin is lawlessness.” That is to say that sin is being outside of Torah. There is no way around it.

So what is it then that saves us? It is the blood of Messiah, His death has taken away the sin of those who put their faith in Him. His righteousness is given to us and undeservedly so. However, sin is still sin and Abraham shows us that trusting in God is shown through obedience to Him, and that is counted to him as righteousness. So the message Paul is writing to the Galatians and also to the Romans is the same. Now that we have put our faith and trust in Messiah, we should no longer walk in the former sins that we knew. For there is a more excellent way! It is the Way of the Rabbi. It is taking on His lifestyle. Going from religion to relationship to a lifestyle that mirrors that of Messiah.

Who was obedient to the Father even to death. Yahoshua set the example of Faith in the promise of His resurrection that we who believe will also be raised up with Him in newness of life. That we no longer walk according to the ways of man, but that like Messiah we do as the Father has instructed. We build on the relationship with His Son Yahoshua, our groom to be at the marriage supper of the Lamb. “So Yahoshua replied, “Truly, truly, I tell you, the Son can do nothing by Himself, unless He sees the Father doing it. For whatever the Father does, the Son also does.“” John 5:19. We should be so like minded. What pleases the Father? Psalm 51 reveals, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.”

If you ask those who have been married for a long time what is their secret you will hear a common theme. That is that each one sought to do for the other more than themselves. In a two-sided relationship where both participants are seeking to honor the other more than themselves you find not only longevity but happiness, peace, joy, love, and satisfaction. It is a lifestyle that becomes the focal point in a relationship, a choice to love the other as they receive love. That is how our Messiah loved and loves us and that is how we ought to love Him in return. And when we love Him we are loving the Father.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from Your presence; take not Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and sustain me with a willing spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners will return to You. Deliver me from bloodguilt, O God, the God of my salvation, and my tongue will sing of Your righteousness. O Adonai, open my lips, and my mouth will declare Your praise.” Psalm 51:10-1

Finally, here in Psalm 51 David writes, “I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners will return to You.” This has always been the point of coming to Messiah. Learning the ways of the Father and doing them. Taking on the heavenly lifestyle and leaving the lawless lifestyle of humanity behind. For the ruler of this world is lawless, he is without Torah, without instruction. And the lawless one is coming to deceive many into a lifestyle of lawlessness, of sin. Are you walking in the light of the Fathers instruction by faith in Messiah? For in the end both are required, Revelation 14:12 says: “Here is a call for the perseverance of the saints, who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Yahoshua.“

Choose this day whom you will serve, the lawless one parading around as the gods of this world or the maker of Heaven and Earth? As for me, i will serve my Father YHWH, in faith of Messiah Yahoshua, by the power of the Holy Spirit.

You are loved,
cj

Living a Lifestyle of Prayer: Lessons from David and Messiah

Living a Lifestyle of Prayer: Lessons from David and Messiah

When the world has you living and doing and being everything but what God ordained in His Word, a lifestyle based on Messiah becomes blurred. How then does the statement, ‘a lifestyle not a religion,’ become more than an idea? In 1 Corinthians Paul writes, “Imitate me, just as I imitate Messiah.” This is a call to study the life of Messiah as presented in the Gospels. How did he live and do and be? This is our goal, it does not move, although we are constantly growing.

Let’s look at Psalm 5 which is a song from Davids heart to his God. It is the heart posture we should all have. He begins: “Give ear to my words, Adonai, consider my inmost thoughts.” When desiring to turn your faith into a lifestyle you have to be willing, even desiring, that God would consider your inmost thoughts. Hide nothing, for nothing in the end is hid from Him. David continues, “Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for I pray to You. Adonai, in the morning You will hear my voice, in the morning I lay my needs before You and wait expectantly.”

The plea of David, “Listen,” isn’t because he doesn’t think Adonai will listen, rather, it is a measured cry of desire. He is revealing his heart for Adonai in a heart felt plea, to his king and his God. This wasn’t a one off prayer it was a pattern it was a lifestyle of prayer as David then says, “in the morning you WILL hear my voice.” How often did our Messiah depart the crowds and even his disciples to get alone and pray? The answer often and usually in the morning. Mark 1:5 records this, “Early in the morning, while it was still dark, Yahoshua (Jesus) got up and went out to a solitary place to pray.” And the prayer was one of expectancy. When we pray, we should do so with a faith filled with expectancy.

David seemingly shifts gears here in the next set of verses. “For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness; evil cannot remain with You. Those who brag cannot stand before Your eyes, You hate all who do evil, You destroy those who tell lies, Adonai detests men of blood and deceivers.” Yet, if we look closely, David is simply drawing a contrast. God still does not take pleasure in wickedness. Adonai still hates evil. Yahoshua, didn’t come to die in order for humanity to practice such things. He came as He declared to Pilate, “For this reason I was born and have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to My voice.” In Yahoshua’s prayer in John 17:17 He declares, “Sanctify them by Your Truth, Your Word is Truth.”

“But I can enter Your house because of Your great grace and love;” David jumps right back into the contrast, those outside of God’s instruction, the wicked are detestable. And those, like David, who have a heart after God’s instruction, enter the house of Adonai because God is rich in mercy, grace, and love; towards those who walk according to His instruction. When those seeking after Gods righteousness enter His presence what does a grateful heart do? “I will bow down toward Your holy Temple in reverence for You.”

The walk isn’t easy. The world is full of distractions and even those with seemingly good intentions can be distractions. Therefore David asks, “Lead me, Adonai, in Your righteousness because of those lying in wait for me; make Your way straight before me. For in their mouths there is nothing sincere, within them are calamities, their throats are open tombs, they flatter with their tongues. God, declare them guilty! Let them fall through their own intrigues, for their many crimes, throw them down; since they have rebelled against You.” The word here for righteousness is צְדָקָה tsᵉdâqâh and it literally means, right actions. So David is saying, ‘Lead me, Adonai, in Your right actions.’ With what David follows up with quiet clearly David is asking God to help him walk in the light of Gods Torah (instruction).

Is David without hope for the lost? Absolutely not. For he closes his Psalm with these words; “But let all who take refuge in You rejoice, let them forever shout for joy! Shelter them; and they will be glad, those who love Your name. For You, Adonai, bless the righteous; You surround them with favor like a shield.” Here David uses the word צַדִּיק tsaddîyq, for righteous. This word means, lawful. David is saying, ‘bless those who are lawful, those keeping Your instruction, who are walking in righteousness, the light of Gods Torah (instruction).

Yahoshua, makes the same plea in His prayer found in John 17. “I made Your name known to the people You gave Me out of the world. They were Yours, You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word.” What is the Fathers word? It is the Torah, and it is Yahoshua, who is the Word made flesh. Yahoshua didn’t come to contradict the Fathers instruction but to bring it to life through action.

Yahoshua later in this same prayer says; “They do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. Set them apart for holiness by means of the truth–Your word is truth. Just as You sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. On their behalf I am setting Myself apart for holiness, so that they too may be set apart for holiness by means of the truth.” Holiness, ἁγιάζω hagiazō, is set apart, sanctified, consecrated for a purpose. Yahoshua is saying He has lived out the instruction of the Father. He set Himself apart from the world, that is living in rebellion, and He is now praying that those who are of the Way. That we also would be set apart to live out the instruction of the Father.

Let me wrap this up with this; “I pray not only for these, but also for those who will trust in Me because of their word, that they may all be one. Just as You, Father, are untied with Me and I with You. I pray that they may be untied with Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.” Yahoshua only did what the Father said, He lived out the Torah. He is saying that He wants us, His disciples to live in the same manner. Not living and doing and being as the world but living as a light (examples of Gods instruction), being imitators of Messiah, doing the acts of righteousness found in Gods instruction (Torah). This is the Way of the Rabbi, to follow His instruction. What does that mean? Follow for more or simply peak into the archives if you are wanting to be imitators of Messiah as the Word calls us to be.

You are loved,
cj

Embracing a Lifestyle Beyond Religion

Embracing a Lifestyle Beyond Religion

Religion, relationship, or lifestyle? The motto for many Christians is; “Christianity isn’t a religion, it’s a relationship.” And they get this idea from Jesus Himself. He calls His followers, friends and brothers. The “Church” is described as the “Bride of Christ.” So there is good reason to use a motto that pulls on the idea of relationship. Religion in our culture has become a byword for rigidity, ritual, rules and regulations, requiring strict adherence. So yes when you put the two side-by-side, relationship is far more appealing than religion.

The definition of religion is: a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, especially when considered as the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs; the practice of religious beliefs; ritual observance of faith; strict faithfulness; devotion.

The definition of relationship is: a connection, association, or involvement; connection between persons by blood or marriage; an emotional or other connection between people.

When one reads John 15:15; “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” It is easy to see the idea of relationship. Also, the idea of relationship makes it feel like a partnership. In a partnership there are two-sides, generally equal and therefore autonomous, moving freely, within the relationship.

Two friends are having a conversation, “What are you doing tonight?” friend one asks friend two. “I don’t have any plans, just gonna go home and watch TV, maybe get takeout on my way.” Friend two reply’s. “You want to grab a bite together and then hit up downtown, there’s a block party tonight?” He asks, adding, “And I don’t want to go alone.” Friend two hesitates, “Come on, it will be fun.” Friend one pushes. Finally, friend two relents, “Ok, I’ll go.” Regardless of how this conversation ends up it is two individuals, making individual decisions.

Religion is as defined a rigid devotion to the rules. If the religious leader says, do this, a good devout religious person, will do it. Wash your hands this way, before eating. In order to join our order you must do this or that in this order, no exception. You must follow these rules precisely or you will need to ritually cleanse yourself. It is focused and it is one-way. One is simply an observer in a collective observance of said religious practices. A participant in the pre-ordained ritualistic rites. No conversation, no friendship, just instruction.

But what does Scripture teach us about the dynamics of this faith that we have? In the beginning, we read that there was a relationship so close-knit that Adam recognized the footsteps of God in the garden. We see the Angel of the God having a meal with Abraham. Even disclosing what was about to take place, the judgement of Sodom and Gomorrah. We see a burning bush and Moses, then later a pillar of fire by night and cloud by day. We see a covenant established between God and the people of Israel. A set of instructions given that if they obeyed them they would be blessed. But, if they did not obey them they would be cursed.

Israel was to be the Nation to the nations, a city set on a hill that drew all nations to God. A priestly nation, each with a particular part based on the tribe they were from. Yet, even it what appears to be the establishment of Religion we see that it was still wrapped in a fundamental desire to have a relationship. David, who is said, “a man after God’s own heart,” writes in Psalm 4 a plea.

“O God, my vindicator! Answer me when I call! When I was distressed, you set me free; now have mercy on me, and hear my prayer.” This is not the cry of religion this is the cry of a relationship. He continues, “Men of rank, how long will you shame my honor, love what is vain, case after lies? Understand that Adonai sets apart the godly person for Himself; Adonai will hear when I call to Him. You can be angry, but do not sin! Think about this as you lie in bed, and calm down. Offer sacrifices rightly, and put your trust in Adonai.”

This reminds me of what the Prophet Micah wrote; “With what can I come before Adonai to bow down before God on high? Should I come before Him with burnt offerings? with calves in their first year? Would Adonai take delight in thousand of rams with ten thousand rivers of olive oil? Could I give my firstborn to pay for my sin, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? O man, you have already been told what is good, what Adonai requires of you – no more than to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”

David finishes Psalm 4 with this: “Many ask, ‘Who can show us some good?’ Adonai, lift the light of Your face over us! You have filled my heart with more joy than all their grain and new wine. I will lie down and sleep in peace; for, Adonai, you alone make me live securely.“

Adonai Elohim, has always desired relationship with His creation. He does however do so with a purpose. There is order, there is righteousness, there is Holiness. He being loving, made away for Israel and later to all the world through Messiah Yahoshua. So this beings us back to the religion or relationship? And to that I say, yes! We began with John 15:15 “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” However, just before this He says, “You are my friends if you do what I command.“

If we take religion and relationship we get a lifestyle. The definition of lifestyle is: the habits, attitudes, tastes, moral standards, economic level, etc., that together constitute the mode of living of an individual or group.

This is why I have chosen “a lifestyle not a religion” over the common catchphrase, “not religion but a relationship.” Some would say this is simply semantics, and they wouldn’t be entirely wrong. However, like the conversation between two individual friends, there is autonomy. However, when we enter into covenant with the Father we are agreeing to live by a set standard. We are taking on the lifestyle of Yahoshua, “fixing our eyes on the Initiator and Completer of that Faith, Yahoshua – who, in exchange for obtaining the joy set before Him, endured death on a tree as a criminal, scorning the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of Elohim.”

It is His lifestyle that we are to carry. We are called to be Ambassadors of the Kingdom. Living in the world but not of the world. We are to be the shining city on a hill, that beacon of light that draws the nations back to Elohim. We are His chosen people, a royal priesthood, ministering to the poor and needy, the nobles and the kings. Living set apart lives as Adonai instructed in His Word. That same Word taught by the Apostles. One continuous letter to humanity, from the Creator of all things. His call for us to return to His Way. Dying to ourselves we put on the new self, the lifestyle of our King Yahoshua, that is marked by obedience.

John 15:9-14 –
“As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Now remain in My love. If you keep My commands, you will remain in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commands and remain in His love. I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.”

The way of the Rabbi, a lifestyle not a religion, for a lifestyle outlives every label.

You are loved,
cj

Prepare for Deception: Strengthening Faith in Troubling Times

Prepare for Deception: Strengthening Faith in Troubling Times

Deception is afoot! Ready your body, mind, and soul for what is coming. Are we in the last days? It sure feels like it. I know people will say, it has been like this from the beginning. They aren’t wrong, so why would this be different? Simply, it is different by the sheer number of differing events all coalescing at once. The big one being aliens. I don’t believe in aliens, let me make that clear. Not in the sense that they come from a galaxy far, far away. I do however believe in created beings, other than human. The Word calls them angels and demons, as well as a hybrid race known as nephilim.

How does one prepare for such a thing? One prepares by immersing themselves in the Word of God. Let me draw a parallel here with Matthew 28:19-20. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit; Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And lo, I am with you always even to the end of the age.” The word baptize simply means to immerse, or saturate. Read that meaning into Matthew 28. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, immersing them in the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit; Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” Immerse them in the Word of God.

Maybe you are unaware of what is going on with aliens and the impending deception. Here is a link to an article carried by MSN from the Daily Mail, “Religious leaders told ‘prepare now’ for UFO disclosure to unleash Bible-changing revelations.” The only revelation we need to prepare for is the one already written in Scripture. Prepare yourself by immersing yourself in the Word (ALL OF IT) so that you are not deceived. Yahoshua warns in Matthew 24:4 “. . . ‘See to it that no one deceives you.'” What is coming upon the earth is going to shake the very foundation of your faith. Yahoshua continues in verse nine. “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will k*** you, and you will be h*ted by all nations because of My name.” This is Yahoshua (Jesus) telling His followers about things coming to those who bear His name, that being Yahoshua.

As you try to hold out your faith it will be tested. Many will look at you and say, ‘there is no hope for you.’ Family and friends may turn on you. Are you prepared for that? It may even come from those within your church. Jeremiah writes, “Thus says Yahweh, ‘Stand by the way and see and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; And you will find rest for your souls. But they said, ‘we will not walk in it.”” Paul also writes a warning in line with the idea of holding fast to Scripture and the Ways of Elohim. Colossians 2:8; “See to it that no one takes you captive through mans philosophy and empty deception. According to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Messiah.”

David the writer of Psalm 3 shares a heart felt declaration. Written while his very own flesh and blood attempted to rip the Kingdom from him. David flees the city in order to avoid his son Absalom. This is what he pens. “Yahweh, how my adversaries have increased! Many are rising up against me. Many are saying of my soul, ‘There is no deliverance for him in God.'” “Selah.” (Psalm 3:1-2) Here David cries out in distress, his adversaries have increased, even from his own home. He is feeling the weight of their accusations and curses, ‘there is no deliverance for him in God.’ David pauses here with the word ‘Selah.’ The Hebrew word doesn’t translate and the meaning is debated among learned men. Some say it is simply a marker for musical interludes. Others will say it is a reflection point of praise, or of deep introspection. A pause where the writer and the reader reflect on life and their relationship with Elohim.

If it is a simple musical interlude one could still hold the idea that it is a place of either praise or reflection. Just listen now to music whether spiritual or secular and a musical interlude occurs. Where does your heart or mind go if you are a true music lover? It will be drawn to reflection of either joy or sorrow or mystery depending on the lyric. In this Psalm of David I would say that this “Selah,” denotes one of sorrowful reflection, “where did I go wrong?” And “Help me Adonai!” An acceptance of here I am and I need Your help Yahweh! Feeling alone and defeated, yet, he doesn’t stay in that place and neither should we.

“But You, Yahweh, are a shield about me. My glory, and the One who lifts my head. I was crying to Yahweh with my voice, and He answered me from His Holy Mountain.” “Selah.” (Psalm 3:3-4) Where does our salvation come from? Our salvation comes from Yahweh! Remind yourself of that when things look bleak, when it seems the world is against you, if family or friends turn on you. Your salvation is found in Messiah Yahoshua and not in anyone or anything else. Stand in that promise, Selah!

The world is in a weird place right now. Many wrapped up in the news are finding themselves in anxiety, worry, doubt and fear. It is easy to do. Wars and rumors of wars, earthquakes, volcanoes, famine, riots, and deadly viruses, to name a few things raging at the moment. Of course then there is one’s own life, bills, gas prices, sickness, brokenness, feelings of being alone, abandoned, forsaken even. The love of many has grown cold, people are different. What is one to do? How does one gain shalom (peace)?

I will close this one out with the last four verses of Psalm 3. In the midst of any struggle remind yourself that Salvation belongs to Yahweh and He gives freely to those who call on His name and choose to walk according to His ways. Psalm 3:5-8 “I lay down and slept; I awoke, for Yahweh sustains me. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves against me round about. Arise, O Yahweh; save me, O my Elohim! For You have smitten all my enemies on the cheek; You have shattered the teeth of the wicked. Salvation belongs to Yahweh; Your blessing be upon Your people!” “Selah.”

Selah,
You are loved,
cj

Understanding Psalm 2: The Kings of Earth and God’s Authority

Understanding Psalm 2: The Kings of Earth and God’s Authority

“Why are the nations in an uproar and the peoples devising a vain thing? The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers take counsel together against YHWH and His Anointed, saying, ‘Let us tear their fetters apart and cast away their cords from us!‘” Psalm 2:1-3

Sounds like this was written yesterday. It is true what Solomon said, “There is nothing new under the sun, all is vanity.” The Psalmist begins with a question we should all be asking, “Why . . .” Ask ten people and you are sure to get eleven different answers. In the end does any of it really matter if the victors do not honor YHWH Elohim? If not they will once again follow mans ways and go after false gods. Our King is coming and when He does He will make all things right. Until then we are here and we must live within the society but we do so as foreigners. For the ways of man are foolishness to God.

“He who sits in the heavens laughs, Adonai scoffs at them. Then He will speak to them in His anger and terrify them in His fury, saying, but as for Me, I have installed My King upon Zion, My holy mountain.” Psalm 2:4-6

Yahoshua (Jesus), came first as our redeemer, He will return as King. He will come in the clouds and every eye will see Him. And He is coming with a rod of iron and judgment. The world is being set up now for a one world government. The actors are all working together, the world is a stage. God’s plan will unfold. Do not put your hope in princes or presidents especially if they are not living according to the Word. There is a false king coming, a ruler robed in peace but beneath the service, violence and destruction.

“I will surely tell of the decree of YHWH: He said to Me, ‘You are My Son, today I have begotten You. Ask of Me, and I will surely give the nations as Your inheritance, And the very ends of the earth as Your possession. You shall break them with a rod of iron You shall shatter them like earthenware.” Psalm 2:7-9

Yahoshua said, He only does and says what the Father instructs. He came as the living Torah, the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. This is how John describes it in John 1:14. If it is true for the King it should be true for His people. The law of the Kingdom of Elohim is the Torah. We should be practicing it. The one coming in mans delusion is as the Word describes, lawless, he is without Torah. He will not be living according to the instruction (Torah) of Elohim the Father or of His Son Yahoshua, our King.

“Now therefore, O kings, show discernment; take warning, O judges of the earth. Worship YHWH with reverence and rejoice with trembling. Do homage to the Son, that He not become angry, and you perish in the way. For His wrath may soon be kindled. How blessed are all who take refuge in Him.” Psalm 2:10-12

Take refuge my friends in Him, the Living Word, He is our Instruction. He is our redeemer and King. He comes to establish the Law, the Torah, of the Kingdom. What side are you on now? Are you waiting for the king of lawlessness? Are you waiting for The King in lawlessness? We are called to as John writes in Revelation 14:12 – “Here is the perseverance of the saints who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Yahoshua.”

This is the Way of the Rabbi. The road is narrow and it is growing increasingly shorter as the edge of the Kingdom draws near. Come our of lawlessness and into the refuge of the Word of God and in His instruction.

You are loved,
cj

The Impact of Influencers in Today’s 24/7 News Cycle

The Impact of Influencers in Today’s 24/7 News Cycle

When I was just a boy, I had a paper route. Everyday when I would get home from school I folded my papers and started out delivering the news. Imagine, waiting until 3 or 4 O’clock to get your news! It is hard for me to even imagine it and I delivered the paper. Today, we live in a 24/7 news cycle and instant updates. It is hard to keep up. Every morning I get an email from a news organization. It is their ‘Morning Brief’. They highlight five or six stories to bring one up to speed on the happenings around the world. Yet, even then some of the stories have changed considerably by the time I open the page. Time is moving at a extremely fast clip, it is hard to keep up, if you blink you might miss something.

This 24/7 news cycle with updates at your fingertips can lock you in and it is hard to take a breath. Yet, with news so in your face these days there are some still who are oblivious to what is going on in the world. Oh they have their phone in their hands but they are playing games and scrolling Tic Tok. Their algorithm is full of cat videos and silly dances being performed by people they don’t know but follow and like and comment as if they do. Everyone is influenced by something or someone. You have news anchors who influence your opinion based on what network you prefer. As well if you aren’t into the news you are influenced by social media influencers. There are even ‘Christian’ influencers out there influencing the mind of their followers. The question is what or whom influences you?

I only want One influencer, the Ruah ha’Qodesh, that is the Holy Spirit. His role is to influence us towards the Word of God. To meditate on it day and night. Soak in it like a sponge. So that when others are around us they too end up under the influence of the Living Water of the Word. When you take a sponge full of water from the sink it drips everywhere, that is how we should be. So saturated by the Word that wherever we go we leave a trail behind us of living water. The Holy Spirit through us influencing those around us by our word and deed. When others bring us news our filter should be the Word. When others bring us ‘entertainment’ our filter should be the Word. When others bring us the ‘Word’ our filter should be the Word.

Let us consider together Psalm 1 . . .
“Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the Torah of YHWH, and on His instruction he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does.” If you honestly desire to know YHWH in His fullness you must know His Word, His Torah, His Instruction. Not only to know it but to believe it and to obey it.

Psalm 1 continues . . .
“Not so the wicked! For they are like chaff driven off by the wind. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For YHWH guards the path of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.” The wicked do not delight themselves in the Torah.

Is it only the wicked that turn their back of God’s instruction?

How would the Berean’s receive this statement?

Those in Brea were limited to the ‘Old’ Testament, we have the writings of the Apostles too. What can we find about “winds of doctrine”?

What are the implications?

This is the Way of the Rabbi,
You are loved,
cj