““Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’”
Matthew 25:34-36 NLT
this is a great reminder.
leviticus is a bit tough to read but it also just makes me thankful to the Lord that we don’t have to do any of the things that the people in leviticus did because of Jesus.
Leviticus really humbles me. Sometimes I complain and I talk to the Lord and I tell him I’m doing so much for him and I look around and see people doing less and I wonder why I have to do all the stuff. But the people in Leviticus had to do so much because Jesus didn’t die on the cross yet. So when I am in times of trouble and I feel like complaining I’m going to find the positive things I can be grateful for and see all that God is doing for me. God doesn’t ask us to do tons of things for him all he asks is for us to spend time with him
The verses in Matthew definitely made me think… how can I serve the least of these today? How can I be vigilant in making sure I don’t fall prey to the world’s rules, popularity contests, and self-serving ways? Starting my day with this word is definitely one way!
How kind of God to establish the day of atonement after enduring the disrespectful and profane acts of Nadab and Abihu. It is His grace shone even in establishing His law.
I’ve noticed that there have been less and less comments lately. Leviticus for me is super confusing and hard to connect to and maybe that’s the case for other women but don’t give up because of it!! I am so excited for us all to make it through the Bible together so keep reading ladies!❤️
Thanks for the encouragement!! I admit to groaning when I see the reading is yet another Leviticus. I need to learn more about this book! And the comments help me SO MUCH
I was told by a friend that a study called “Seeing Jesus in (?) exodus Leviticus and Numbers “ helped explain how all the many offerings pointed to Christ so I am trying to look at the foreshadowing and even occasionally follow rabbit trails, like looking up leprosy and that these OT references to leprosy may be pointing more to heart issues and it’s is possible different than modern day leprosy called Hansen’s disease. Also, this reference is where we get scapegoat- the one sent into the wilderness! Love ❤️ Bible reading!
Same, same same!! Having a hard time relating to Leviticus too and I’m glad to read I’m not the only one. It’s hard to read all of this about being “unclean” when God made us this way, so I’ve been having a tough time stomaching it.
You are correct we must first believe, however faith without works is dead. We must have a heart like Jesus and love our neighbors as ourselves. Jesus was a servant and He wants us to be His hands and feet here on earth. We are to serve others and show the love of Christ. This is how the good news of the gospel is spread, through acts of kindness and service.
It’s not that their works earned them salvation. They did the good deeds because of their righteousness and desire to serve the Lord by serving others, not for a reward.
Is it weird if I was encouraged by this? Lol I love that we get to read the law of Leviticus and Matthew together here. Seeing the contrast between the detailed law (which God mercifully gave to His people to maintain relationship with them) and the New Covenant always helps me put into perspective God’s love for us. Like seriously praise God we don’t have to make a sacrifice for our “menstrual impurities” as my ESV so quaintly puts it. Instead He met us in uncleanliness (both the physical kind and spiritual) and bridged a gap so we could have a constant and closer relationship with Him that will result in inheriting His kingdom.
What I took away from this is more related to the discharging. I think it’s more of a spiritual discharge or behavioral. Such as if one emits poor unfavorable behavior or words or has a spirit of unkindness or lacking in what’s considered maybe “fruit of the spirit” then that person is unclean. However, in then speaking of generosity and treating those in need as if they were Jesus, we must dispel any negativity we have in our own hearts about acts of service towards those in need. We should emit nothing but a pure and clean heart as if we were exerting our love and kindness to Jesus. I know there are times where I’ve said “well I need this too” but I haven’t stopped to think about God’s plan, I’m rather serving my own agenda. I should be more like the Good Samaritan and know that I have the financial, time, and relational freedom to impact someone who is in need.
I think back then it was more about not spreading disease . Disease from blood spreads quickly and the people of that time weren’t the cleanest . So I think it is more about cleanliness than “punishment “
I’m reading a Bible study at the moment that pairs the Leviticus passage about a bleeding woman being unclean and everything she touches with the passage we read earlier in Matthew where the woman who had been bleeding twelve years reaching out and touching his cloak. I’ve never thought about that before, there must have been people who considered Jesus unclean now. And it doesn’t say that Jesus told her to go and make a sin and burnt offering for atonement afterwards. I wonder if she did. I’m sure she didn’t comprehend at the time that she had been healed by the one who would fulfill all the law for her. It was only her faith in Jesus that she needed
I agree with Cara, also: Through a womans reproductive organs exists a connection between the outside of the body and the abdomen. This connection is normally closed, bit not during menstruation.
Therefore, if a woman sleeps with a man during her period, any possible infection/STI might reach the abdomen. In biblical times, an infection like that was practically a death sentence.
A lot of those laws are about health and protecting people from spreading diseases, so that might also play a part (and I find it very interesting…)
It has to do with more with keeping the tent of meeting clean than with the state of the woman. God’s instructions in these chapters all point towards keeping his holy place most holy, undefined, and clean. It’s also a wise health care rule (for the time). I don’t think women back then had a very good/effective way of dealing with menstruation (as women we know how messy and gross it can get). Medically speaking menstruation flow is not clean blood, there is other tissue (dead one), so that could open up room for bacterial infections and what not.
Hope this helps!
If your Church does not have a Prison Ministry it may be your calling to start one or check with Facilities in your area they usually have volunteer programs. sorry posted to quickly before
prison ministry or check with facilities in your area volunteer
I think you continue to love her by spending time with her, reading scriptures like Ruth and those about Rachel and also pray for her salvation. Has she accepted Christ? I have someone like that in my life and it has been one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced. My mother was an alcoholic and couldn’t work. I would try and ‘save’ her from the tragic woes she and the advisary created by providing food, money etc but ultimately I prayed for the holy spirit within to heal her mind and help me see clearly. Over time I established boundaries, so that her Adam nature couldn’t take away from my Christ nature. I am thankful to say she has been sober for 4 years and is Steadily finding means to provide for herself. God presents us with challenges to build character. He will never leave your side sister. Keep the love and faith strong.
I just found Christ about a month ago . I am having a difficult time with how to apply this to my daily life. what if someone who has nothing physically wrong with them that prevents them from working hasn’t worked in over 4 years, expects & requests that her family members support her, what if she doesn’t have money to pay her bills but has money to buy multiple packs of cigarettes each weak, what if she keeps saying that “God will give her what she needs” , so she just sits playing on facebook and playing computer games all day and all night waiting for the handouts that “God is going to/does provide ” to her???? what would God want us to do in this situation? He says to honor your father and mother, and in this reading to feed the poor, etc. does this mean to keep providing her with everything while she provides herself with nothing on her own accord??? HELP!
I think in this instance, you need to ask Jesus what it looks like to love her the way He does. While He says to give to those in need, there are multiple passages that speak of a good Father who disciplines His children, and in Thessalonians they are urged to work and care for their families. Whatever actions and words come from you must come from a place of love, not anger or fear. God loves this person more than you, and He is holy and just. I know He has a solution, and I know He is so proud of you for reaching out for help. Pray for her, that she would hear from God, and that the Holy Spirit would convict her and encourage her.
First, I am so happy in your new journey! It is not an easy road, but amazing nevertheless! My perspective honestly is that you focus on your relationship with God. Read God’s truth, and let the Holy Spirit guide you. You are no longer walking alone but with the help of the Holy Spirit. We are human, and have had acquired many wounds. Some show things in one way, and some in another. I read a book that I highly recommend. I start books but don’t always finish them. This one is captivating: Boundaries by Cloud & Townsend. It has helped me a lot. God will guide you along in this family relationship you are facing…sometimes time is the healer.
Treating others with kindness, compassion, and love is important to God. Not looking down on people because they are poor, dirty, less intelligent, etc. But truly reaching out and serving them.
I love the reminder in Matthew 43 also to be loving and generous to everyone we meet. I can’t imagine how miserable the time of the month would be back then!
Hey girls! I’m just wondering, how do we balance this passage with the passage about the virgins yesterday? Where is the line between keeping what we need for ourselves to serve the lord, and giving to others to show God’s love? Curious to see your answers! Thanks!
Good question! I’m not sure these things are mutually exclusive. I think that by serving others we more fully experience God and can worship Him more fully.
Love your point Savannah. On the broader scale, if we intertwine the passages, first and foremost, God always wants us to use wisdom & discernment. That is why he left us His word, the Bible, and a helper, the Holy Spirit. My mom shared this story once about my father, that is, he would give all his money sometimes to a poor person, and when He came home, there was no money to pay the bills…
As we read God’s word, we will want to apply its truths daily! There is an order to anything God does. He doesn’t want us to go madly about. This order is learned, not automatic…at least I don’t think so. For example, if married, God is always number 1, your spouse number 2, if kids in the picture number 3, then everyone else (I think Christian’s first, then everyone else….) so the mission field starts by having a relationship with God first. Then within time, more and more is revealed. But, using the same scenario, you can’t take care of other kids and neglect yours… This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t sacrifice some time, when we can manage. Best way to sum it up is by saying each situation has its season, and each person is gifted differently… Living in the moment is key. And sometimes it is just as simple as greeting someone kindly.
I think that the Virgins with their oil really more represents our Faith. Like the 5 prepared virgins, God wants us to believe and trust in Him. He wants us to be spiritually ready for when he comes back by repenting and living for Him. It’s not that we are then denying the other 5 our oil, but we can not share our Faith with others. I can’t be saved for myself and saved for my sister, she must also believe and live for God. Just like the prepared virgins sent the others to get their own oil, we can encourage and help others to find Jesus, but we can’t believe for them.
Matt v:43 I love that reminder to be generous to those less fortunate or in need of help. A lot of times we don’t want to give our time and serve others. This is a reminder to fellowship with other believers, serve others the way we can and the Lord will take care of us.
Elisa, in relation to women menstrual’s in The Book of Leviticus 15 reminds me of how much suffering and ridicule was faced by the woman with the issue of blood (Matthew 9:20-22, Mark 5:25-34, Luke 8:43-48) as well as why Rachel was able to get away with stealing her father’s idol in Gen 31 “Rachel had hidden the gods inside her camel’s saddle, and she was sitting on them. Laban looked through the whole tent, but he did not find the gods. And Rachel said to her father, “Father, don’t be angry with me. I am not able to stand up before you. I am having my monthly time of bleeding.” So Laban looked through the camp, but he did not find the gods from his house.” Genesis 31:34-35 ERV)
Reading Levicticus 15 about discharge has saddened my heart. It must have been awful to be charged with “uncleanness”. “If a woman has a discharge of blood for many days she shall continue in uncleanness” (verse 25) This reminds me of Mark 5:21 when a girl touched Jesus’s garments and was instantly healed of her discharge and he called her daughter! Wow. Powerful that I serve a savior that heals me and calls me daughter in my uncleanness. Today I want to live in the freedom of being loved, accepted, cherished and adopted. I desire to show God’s goodness to non believers through my joy and gratitude.
When my kids were much younger, there was a song they sang that said “I just want to be a sheep, baa baa baa baa…..”. It talked about not wanting to be a hypocrite, or a Pharisee, or Sadducee, but rather to be one of Jesus’s sheep. Lots of good theology in those songs that we can use as adults.
I found it interesting to read about the sending away of the goat in Leviticus and then again in Matthew as Jesus separates the people the sheep from the goats – and He says to those on the left depart from me – the goat once again is being sent away …
http://www.raystedman.org/old-testament/leviticus/the-trouble-with-nature – I found this article online, while I can’t vouch for the website, it’s very eye opening! This man suggests that the discharge in Leviticus 15 can be likened to the discharge of unkind speech or selfishness or complaining. When that happens we are unclean and must be washed by the water (Repentance) and the blood (forgiveness). I thought it was a super neat read! Y’all might enjoy it :)
Just wanting to clarify: when He is speaking about caring for the others in this verse:
40 ‘The King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.’
Is He speaking about believers? At least this is the way I am interpreting it (not that we shouldn’t be kind and help out those who don’t believe, but just in this context).
This spoke out to me, as I feel like there are so many things in this world and society that divides us. Satan has planted so many seeds where we don’t have the inclination to recognize that every single Christian on this earth has the God and Creator of the universe, living in them! Hoping we can recognize this more often, and how much God LOVES people, that we would more spontaneously treat others like we would the Lord.
I have heard different preachers teach on this subject and it’s very interesting that the “least of these” is not the conventional marginalized people in our society. The prophesy Jesus is speaking about here that the sheep are separated from the goats, the sheep to a kingdom prepared before time began are not saved because of their works. And the goats are surprised that they didn’t see Jesus in need. I’m sure there will be many many people who were very generous and kind and hospitable who are going to hell. So I don’t think Jesus is talking about literally helping those who need it (in this passage) because he just told three parables about judgement. It’s not the we are mot supposed to help those in need of course we are hut there’s something else gojng on in this passage, I think. Anyways I recommend deeper study of this passage.
I have not been able to find an answer to whether Jesus was talking about helping believers or unbelievers, but I think He means helping and being kind to everyone. The Matthew Henry Commentary says this about verse 40: “When the good works of the saints are produced on that great day, they will all be remembered, and not the least will be overlooked, not even a cup of cold water, (Mt 10:42). And all their works will be interpreted as much to their advantage as possible. Just as Jesus Christ makes the best of their weaknesses, so he also makes the most of their services. But what will become of the godly poor, who did not have the resources to feed the hungry and clothe the naked? Must they be excluded? No: Christ will acknowledge them, even the least of them, as his brothers and sisters; he will not be ashamed or think it beneath him to “call them brethren” (Heb. 2:11). At the height of his glory, he will not disown his poor relatives. He will take the kindness done to them as done to him: “Ye have done it to me.” And in saying this, he will show respect to the poor who were helped as well as to the rich who helped them.”
Jennifer, I understand what you are seeing. I didn’t see that “brothers of mine” part as clearly pointed out before. The Bible clear points that first we need to help our family before we help anyone out. However in this passage, I personally think it is referring to everyone! ! As a result of the Christian love, in whatever undertaking (including prisons!), various people become Christians, therefore in the end the “brother premises”…
I’m wondering if Jesus is especially & specifically speaking of the Jews… As regarding His brothers. We are wise to bless Israel acc to Gen 12:3. Of course we read in Matthew 12:50 that “whoever does His will” is Jesus’ brother or sister and as Moni said we are to care fore those in our own families. 1Tim 5:8.
So convicted today by Matthew. I might help out those in need, but is my heart doing it for God or just so that I look “godly”. Praying that I serve people as though they were Jesus, not paying attention to their smells or their looks. That everything would be done for His glory, not mine. Sobering thought.
Sisters, sharing what I found from Matthew Henry’s commentary:
The SLAIN GOAT was a type of Christ dying for our sins; The SCAPE-GOAT a type of Christ rising again for our justification. Jesus is also compared to the scapegoat because He also “suffered outside the gate so that He might sanctify the people by His own blood” (Heb. 13-12)
The atonement – putting the sins of Israel upon the head of the goat, which was sent into the wilderness, a land not inhabitated. The sending away of the goat represented the free and full remission of their sins.
THE HIGH PRIEST’S ENTRANCE INTO THE MOST HOLY PLACE – The entrance into heaven which Christ made for us… Jesus doesn’t come out again like the high priest, but instead ever lives, making intercession and always appears in the presence of God for us.
Matthew 25:40 is so powerful and clear to me! We are to treat the people with the least as we would treat Jesus if he came to us, and as we would also want to be treated by Jesus. I pray for this verse to guide my actions and for you all too! Amen
Today’s reading was convicting – Jesus’ words struck me to my core. I’m I taking hold of every opportunity to bless and provide for the the people on my path? By the grace of God I pray I don’t miss or not see the people who need provision in my life – be it spiritual or physical. Lord set me in a heart that loves your people! Doing these things is hard in our own strength but I believe that by his grace and mercy we can be the person who whets the thirsty, feeds the hungry and prays for the sick, visits the criminals. And Lord help me to always remember it’s you I’m serving at the end of the day when I am hurt by the very people I’m loving.
I want the same heart and the same focus that I am doing these things as if I’m doing them for the Lord. Then I won’t be so sensitive when someone treats me badly after helping them. We’re Living in Romania working with Gypsies. I need this kind of focus. Not that I’m rescuing or helping people but that I’m giving the Lord himself a cup of water or a meal.
If only medicine would have followed God from the beginning. Love Florence Nightingale, but God told us to wash our hands a long time ago :)
““Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’”
Matthew 25:34-36 NLT
this is a great reminder.
leviticus is a bit tough to read but it also just makes me thankful to the Lord that we don’t have to do any of the things that the people in leviticus did because of Jesus.
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Thank you for sharing this!
being on your period was truly hilarious back then to me
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Leviticus really humbles me. Sometimes I complain and I talk to the Lord and I tell him I’m doing so much for him and I look around and see people doing less and I wonder why I have to do all the stuff. But the people in Leviticus had to do so much because Jesus didn’t die on the cross yet. So when I am in times of trouble and I feel like complaining I’m going to find the positive things I can be grateful for and see all that God is doing for me. God doesn’t ask us to do tons of things for him all he asks is for us to spend time with him
When you did it for the least you did it for me.
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That makes better sense. Thank you
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Reading Matthew has been so eye opening! Scary but truthful and I love it!
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The verses in Matthew definitely made me think… how can I serve the least of these today? How can I be vigilant in making sure I don’t fall prey to the world’s rules, popularity contests, and self-serving ways? Starting my day with this word is definitely one way!
Whatsoever you do to the least, you do to me
I’m just wondering how many wild goats there were back in Bible days because of sins.
40And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’
amen !-ellie
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How kind of God to establish the day of atonement after enduring the disrespectful and profane acts of Nadab and Abihu. It is His grace shone even in establishing His law.
I’ve noticed that there have been less and less comments lately. Leviticus for me is super confusing and hard to connect to and maybe that’s the case for other women but don’t give up because of it!! I am so excited for us all to make it through the Bible together so keep reading ladies!❤️
Thanks for the encouragement!! I admit to groaning when I see the reading is yet another Leviticus. I need to learn more about this book! And the comments help me SO MUCH
Just wait until we get to Numbers. We’ll be reading numbers instead of letters.
I was told by a friend that a study called “Seeing Jesus in (?) exodus Leviticus and Numbers “ helped explain how all the many offerings pointed to Christ so I am trying to look at the foreshadowing and even occasionally follow rabbit trails, like looking up leprosy and that these OT references to leprosy may be pointing more to heart issues and it’s is possible different than modern day leprosy called Hansen’s disease. Also, this reference is where we get scapegoat- the one sent into the wilderness! Love ❤️ Bible reading!
Same, same same!! Having a hard time relating to Leviticus too and I’m glad to read I’m not the only one. It’s hard to read all of this about being “unclean” when God made us this way, so I’ve been having a tough time stomaching it.
If you wise women didn’t say anything, me a young 21 year old wouldn’t understand half the passages. Thank you!
Why does it say that we enter the kingdom of heaven by doing things for the least of these? I thought we don’t enter by doing, but by believing
You are correct we must first believe, however faith without works is dead. We must have a heart like Jesus and love our neighbors as ourselves. Jesus was a servant and He wants us to be His hands and feet here on earth. We are to serve others and show the love of Christ. This is how the good news of the gospel is spread, through acts of kindness and service.
It’s not that their works earned them salvation. They did the good deeds because of their righteousness and desire to serve the Lord by serving others, not for a reward.
Is it weird if I was encouraged by this? Lol I love that we get to read the law of Leviticus and Matthew together here. Seeing the contrast between the detailed law (which God mercifully gave to His people to maintain relationship with them) and the New Covenant always helps me put into perspective God’s love for us. Like seriously praise God we don’t have to make a sacrifice for our “menstrual impurities” as my ESV so quaintly puts it. Instead He met us in uncleanliness (both the physical kind and spiritual) and bridged a gap so we could have a constant and closer relationship with Him that will result in inheriting His kingdom.
Aaaamen!
Hi Sarah are you from Fargo?
Yes!!
Does anyone have a version that makes this book easier to understand and get through?
Hey Chelsey! Try ESV if you haven’t yet! I’m normally able to follow it :)
If it gets really difficult, I switch to The Message.
What I took away from this is more related to the discharging. I think it’s more of a spiritual discharge or behavioral. Such as if one emits poor unfavorable behavior or words or has a spirit of unkindness or lacking in what’s considered maybe “fruit of the spirit” then that person is unclean. However, in then speaking of generosity and treating those in need as if they were Jesus, we must dispel any negativity we have in our own hearts about acts of service towards those in need. We should emit nothing but a pure and clean heart as if we were exerting our love and kindness to Jesus. I know there are times where I’ve said “well I need this too” but I haven’t stopped to think about God’s plan, I’m rather serving my own agenda. I should be more like the Good Samaritan and know that I have the financial, time, and relational freedom to impact someone who is in need.
I think back then it was more about not spreading disease . Disease from blood spreads quickly and the people of that time weren’t the cleanest . So I think it is more about cleanliness than “punishment “
This was a tough one for me, I appreciate everyone’s perspectives on why me station was considered unclean-
I’m reading a Bible study at the moment that pairs the Leviticus passage about a bleeding woman being unclean and everything she touches with the passage we read earlier in Matthew where the woman who had been bleeding twelve years reaching out and touching his cloak. I’ve never thought about that before, there must have been people who considered Jesus unclean now. And it doesn’t say that Jesus told her to go and make a sin and burnt offering for atonement afterwards. I wonder if she did. I’m sure she didn’t comprehend at the time that she had been healed by the one who would fulfill all the law for her. It was only her faith in Jesus that she needed
Oh wow, good connection!
Beautiful thought!
A menstrual cycle is for the purpose of creating a baby. Why is this impure?
I see the law as protecting women. She would receive a week of rest out of each month.
I agree with Cara, also: Through a womans reproductive organs exists a connection between the outside of the body and the abdomen. This connection is normally closed, bit not during menstruation.
Therefore, if a woman sleeps with a man during her period, any possible infection/STI might reach the abdomen. In biblical times, an infection like that was practically a death sentence.
A lot of those laws are about health and protecting people from spreading diseases, so that might also play a part (and I find it very interesting…)
I don’t think this is STD theory is accurate science.
Why is a woman’s menstrual cycle being announced as impure in this scripture?
It has to do with more with keeping the tent of meeting clean than with the state of the woman. God’s instructions in these chapters all point towards keeping his holy place most holy, undefined, and clean. It’s also a wise health care rule (for the time). I don’t think women back then had a very good/effective way of dealing with menstruation (as women we know how messy and gross it can get). Medically speaking menstruation flow is not clean blood, there is other tissue (dead one), so that could open up room for bacterial infections and what not.
Hope this helps!
Undefiled* sorry autocorrect
I need to figure out how to visit folks in prison, since it’s one of the most specific things Jesus asks us to do.
This is something very close to my hearPrMinismaybe you can start one
If your Church does not have a Prison Ministry it may be your calling to start one or check with Facilities in your area they usually have volunteer programs. sorry posted to quickly before
prison ministry or check with facilities in your area volunteer
Love this app.
thank you do much for the responses!
I think you continue to love her by spending time with her, reading scriptures like Ruth and those about Rachel and also pray for her salvation. Has she accepted Christ? I have someone like that in my life and it has been one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced. My mother was an alcoholic and couldn’t work. I would try and ‘save’ her from the tragic woes she and the advisary created by providing food, money etc but ultimately I prayed for the holy spirit within to heal her mind and help me see clearly. Over time I established boundaries, so that her Adam nature couldn’t take away from my Christ nature. I am thankful to say she has been sober for 4 years and is Steadily finding means to provide for herself. God presents us with challenges to build character. He will never leave your side sister. Keep the love and faith strong.
I just found Christ about a month ago . I am having a difficult time with how to apply this to my daily life. what if someone who has nothing physically wrong with them that prevents them from working hasn’t worked in over 4 years, expects & requests that her family members support her, what if she doesn’t have money to pay her bills but has money to buy multiple packs of cigarettes each weak, what if she keeps saying that “God will give her what she needs” , so she just sits playing on facebook and playing computer games all day and all night waiting for the handouts that “God is going to/does provide ” to her???? what would God want us to do in this situation? He says to honor your father and mother, and in this reading to feed the poor, etc. does this mean to keep providing her with everything while she provides herself with nothing on her own accord??? HELP!
I think in this instance, you need to ask Jesus what it looks like to love her the way He does. While He says to give to those in need, there are multiple passages that speak of a good Father who disciplines His children, and in Thessalonians they are urged to work and care for their families. Whatever actions and words come from you must come from a place of love, not anger or fear. God loves this person more than you, and He is holy and just. I know He has a solution, and I know He is so proud of you for reaching out for help. Pray for her, that she would hear from God, and that the Holy Spirit would convict her and encourage her.
You are amazing!!
First, I am so happy in your new journey! It is not an easy road, but amazing nevertheless! My perspective honestly is that you focus on your relationship with God. Read God’s truth, and let the Holy Spirit guide you. You are no longer walking alone but with the help of the Holy Spirit. We are human, and have had acquired many wounds. Some show things in one way, and some in another. I read a book that I highly recommend. I start books but don’t always finish them. This one is captivating: Boundaries by Cloud & Townsend. It has helped me a lot. God will guide you along in this family relationship you are facing…sometimes time is the healer.
I second Boundaries!
I third Boundaries! Great book!
Treating others with kindness, compassion, and love is important to God. Not looking down on people because they are poor, dirty, less intelligent, etc. But truly reaching out and serving them.
I love the reminder in Matthew 43 also to be loving and generous to everyone we meet. I can’t imagine how miserable the time of the month would be back then!
Hey girls! I’m just wondering, how do we balance this passage with the passage about the virgins yesterday? Where is the line between keeping what we need for ourselves to serve the lord, and giving to others to show God’s love? Curious to see your answers! Thanks!
Good question! I’m not sure these things are mutually exclusive. I think that by serving others we more fully experience God and can worship Him more fully.
Love your point Savannah. On the broader scale, if we intertwine the passages, first and foremost, God always wants us to use wisdom & discernment. That is why he left us His word, the Bible, and a helper, the Holy Spirit. My mom shared this story once about my father, that is, he would give all his money sometimes to a poor person, and when He came home, there was no money to pay the bills…
As we read God’s word, we will want to apply its truths daily! There is an order to anything God does. He doesn’t want us to go madly about. This order is learned, not automatic…at least I don’t think so. For example, if married, God is always number 1, your spouse number 2, if kids in the picture number 3, then everyone else (I think Christian’s first, then everyone else….) so the mission field starts by having a relationship with God first. Then within time, more and more is revealed. But, using the same scenario, you can’t take care of other kids and neglect yours… This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t sacrifice some time, when we can manage. Best way to sum it up is by saying each situation has its season, and each person is gifted differently… Living in the moment is key. And sometimes it is just as simple as greeting someone kindly.
I think that the Virgins with their oil really more represents our Faith. Like the 5 prepared virgins, God wants us to believe and trust in Him. He wants us to be spiritually ready for when he comes back by repenting and living for Him. It’s not that we are then denying the other 5 our oil, but we can not share our Faith with others. I can’t be saved for myself and saved for my sister, she must also believe and live for God. Just like the prepared virgins sent the others to get their own oil, we can encourage and help others to find Jesus, but we can’t believe for them.
Great points Ashley!
Matt v:43 I love that reminder to be generous to those less fortunate or in need of help. A lot of times we don’t want to give our time and serve others. This is a reminder to fellowship with other believers, serve others the way we can and the Lord will take care of us.
Elisa, in relation to women menstrual’s in The Book of Leviticus 15 reminds me of how much suffering and ridicule was faced by the woman with the issue of blood (Matthew 9:20-22, Mark 5:25-34, Luke 8:43-48) as well as why Rachel was able to get away with stealing her father’s idol in Gen 31 “Rachel had hidden the gods inside her camel’s saddle, and she was sitting on them. Laban looked through the whole tent, but he did not find the gods. And Rachel said to her father, “Father, don’t be angry with me. I am not able to stand up before you. I am having my monthly time of bleeding.” So Laban looked through the camp, but he did not find the gods from his house.” Genesis 31:34-35 ERV)
Reading Levicticus 15 about discharge has saddened my heart. It must have been awful to be charged with “uncleanness”. “If a woman has a discharge of blood for many days she shall continue in uncleanness” (verse 25) This reminds me of Mark 5:21 when a girl touched Jesus’s garments and was instantly healed of her discharge and he called her daughter! Wow. Powerful that I serve a savior that heals me and calls me daughter in my uncleanness. Today I want to live in the freedom of being loved, accepted, cherished and adopted. I desire to show God’s goodness to non believers through my joy and gratitude.
Amen to that Meaghan!
Meaghan, yes I had the same thoughts.
When my kids were much younger, there was a song they sang that said “I just want to be a sheep, baa baa baa baa…..”. It talked about not wanting to be a hypocrite, or a Pharisee, or Sadducee, but rather to be one of Jesus’s sheep. Lots of good theology in those songs that we can use as adults.
I remember singing this song!!
I found it interesting to read about the sending away of the goat in Leviticus and then again in Matthew as Jesus separates the people the sheep from the goats – and He says to those on the left depart from me – the goat once again is being sent away …
Wow! I didn’t even put those two together!
http://www.raystedman.org/old-testament/leviticus/the-trouble-with-nature – I found this article online, while I can’t vouch for the website, it’s very eye opening! This man suggests that the discharge in Leviticus 15 can be likened to the discharge of unkind speech or selfishness or complaining. When that happens we are unclean and must be washed by the water (Repentance) and the blood (forgiveness). I thought it was a super neat read! Y’all might enjoy it :)
Thank you! I was stumbling over these passages because they felt very physical when I believed them to be so much more of a spiritual matter.
Just wanting to clarify: when He is speaking about caring for the others in this verse:
40 ‘The King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.’
Is He speaking about believers? At least this is the way I am interpreting it (not that we shouldn’t be kind and help out those who don’t believe, but just in this context).
This spoke out to me, as I feel like there are so many things in this world and society that divides us. Satan has planted so many seeds where we don’t have the inclination to recognize that every single Christian on this earth has the God and Creator of the universe, living in them! Hoping we can recognize this more often, and how much God LOVES people, that we would more spontaneously treat others like we would the Lord.
I don’t know for certain but I think it’s everyone not just believers…
No… I’m pretty sure this is about everyone, not just being loving to fellow Christians…
I have heard different preachers teach on this subject and it’s very interesting that the “least of these” is not the conventional marginalized people in our society. The prophesy Jesus is speaking about here that the sheep are separated from the goats, the sheep to a kingdom prepared before time began are not saved because of their works. And the goats are surprised that they didn’t see Jesus in need. I’m sure there will be many many people who were very generous and kind and hospitable who are going to hell. So I don’t think Jesus is talking about literally helping those who need it (in this passage) because he just told three parables about judgement. It’s not the we are mot supposed to help those in need of course we are hut there’s something else gojng on in this passage, I think. Anyways I recommend deeper study of this passage.
Sorry I accidentally pressed send before correcting all my typos! Woops
I’m not sure about this verse, but there is definitely scripture that calls for us to specifically care for other believers, see Galatians 6:10. :)
I have not been able to find an answer to whether Jesus was talking about helping believers or unbelievers, but I think He means helping and being kind to everyone. The Matthew Henry Commentary says this about verse 40: “When the good works of the saints are produced on that great day, they will all be remembered, and not the least will be overlooked, not even a cup of cold water, (Mt 10:42). And all their works will be interpreted as much to their advantage as possible. Just as Jesus Christ makes the best of their weaknesses, so he also makes the most of their services. But what will become of the godly poor, who did not have the resources to feed the hungry and clothe the naked? Must they be excluded? No: Christ will acknowledge them, even the least of them, as his brothers and sisters; he will not be ashamed or think it beneath him to “call them brethren” (Heb. 2:11). At the height of his glory, he will not disown his poor relatives. He will take the kindness done to them as done to him: “Ye have done it to me.” And in saying this, he will show respect to the poor who were helped as well as to the rich who helped them.”
Jennifer, I understand what you are seeing. I didn’t see that “brothers of mine” part as clearly pointed out before. The Bible clear points that first we need to help our family before we help anyone out. However in this passage, I personally think it is referring to everyone! ! As a result of the Christian love, in whatever undertaking (including prisons!), various people become Christians, therefore in the end the “brother premises”…
I’m wondering if Jesus is especially & specifically speaking of the Jews… As regarding His brothers. We are wise to bless Israel acc to Gen 12:3. Of course we read in Matthew 12:50 that “whoever does His will” is Jesus’ brother or sister and as Moni said we are to care fore those in our own families. 1Tim 5:8.
So convicted today by Matthew. I might help out those in need, but is my heart doing it for God or just so that I look “godly”. Praying that I serve people as though they were Jesus, not paying attention to their smells or their looks. That everything would be done for His glory, not mine. Sobering thought.
Sisters, sharing what I found from Matthew Henry’s commentary:
The SLAIN GOAT was a type of Christ dying for our sins; The SCAPE-GOAT a type of Christ rising again for our justification. Jesus is also compared to the scapegoat because He also “suffered outside the gate so that He might sanctify the people by His own blood” (Heb. 13-12)
The atonement – putting the sins of Israel upon the head of the goat, which was sent into the wilderness, a land not inhabitated. The sending away of the goat represented the free and full remission of their sins.
THE HIGH PRIEST’S ENTRANCE INTO THE MOST HOLY PLACE – The entrance into heaven which Christ made for us… Jesus doesn’t come out again like the high priest, but instead ever lives, making intercession and always appears in the presence of God for us.
Thank you for sharing this!
Thank you Misce, I was wondering about how the scapegoat could take away their sins and now I see Christ represented here…
Thanks for the insight.
Matthew 25:40 is so powerful and clear to me! We are to treat the people with the least as we would treat Jesus if he came to us, and as we would also want to be treated by Jesus. I pray for this verse to guide my actions and for you all too! Amen
My study bible note hit me: “what if you treated every person you encountered as if they were Jesus”? wow
That is sooooo challenging Chelsea! I fail at this daily… Lord help me to see you in the face of everyone I meet!
My take away: “Child of God, do not be too attached to this world. There is an eternal Kingdom prepared for you!”
Today’s reading was convicting – Jesus’ words struck me to my core. I’m I taking hold of every opportunity to bless and provide for the the people on my path? By the grace of God I pray I don’t miss or not see the people who need provision in my life – be it spiritual or physical. Lord set me in a heart that loves your people! Doing these things is hard in our own strength but I believe that by his grace and mercy we can be the person who whets the thirsty, feeds the hungry and prays for the sick, visits the criminals. And Lord help me to always remember it’s you I’m serving at the end of the day when I am hurt by the very people I’m loving.
I want the same heart and the same focus that I am doing these things as if I’m doing them for the Lord. Then I won’t be so sensitive when someone treats me badly after helping them. We’re Living in Romania working with Gypsies. I need this kind of focus. Not that I’m rescuing or helping people but that I’m giving the Lord himself a cup of water or a meal.