THE BAGS OF GOLD

Summary

Bags of gold sometimes translated as “talents,” this was a large sum of money, about six thousand denarii. The parable of the bags of gold illustrates the faith required of God’s servants. 

The parable describes the consequences of two attitudes to Christ’s return. The person who diligently prepares for it by investing his or her time and talent to serve God will be rewarded. The person who has no heart for the work of the kingdom will be punished. God rewards faithfulness. Those who bear no fruit for God’s kingdom cannot expect to be treated the same as those who are faithful. 

The master divided the money (talents) among his servants according to their abilities. No one received more or less than he could handle. If he failed in his assignment, his excuse could not be that he was overwhelmed. Failure could come only from laziness or hatred toward the master. Talents represent any kind of resource we are given. God gives us time, gifts, and other resources according to our abilities, and He expects us to invest them wisely until He returns. We are responsible for using well what God has given us. The issue is not how much we have, but how well we use what we have. 

Jesus is coming back — we know this is true. Does this mean we must quit our jobs in order to serve God? No, it means we are to use our time, talents, and treasures diligently in order to serve God completely in whatever we do. For a few people, this may mean changing professions. For most of us, it means doing our daily work out of love for God. 

The last man was thinking only of himself. He hoped to play it safe and protect himself from his hard master, but he was judged for his self-centeredness. We must not make excuses to avoid doing what God calls us to do. If God truly is our Master, we must obey willingly. Our time, abilities, and money aren’t ours in the first place—we are caretakers, not owners. When we ignore, squander, or abuse what we are given, we are rebellious and deserve to be punished. 

I will put you in charge of many things. The first two servants received the same reward, based on their faithfulness, not on the size of their responsibilities. The most minor task in God’s work may receive a great reward if we faithfully perform it. 

Blessings,

Elder Barbara

LAB|TEBC|HSB

Transcription

Notes from a Family Reunion on ‘LOVE’

Summary

LOVE. 1st Corinthians 13 “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.” This episode speaks of love, love within a family actually within generations of a family, my family, and your family. 

I was going through a few of my older sermons and happened upon a few notes I had gathered for a sermon on the topic of “love”. This would be one of our greatest reunions before the call of many senior family members. Our family reunions always conclude with Sunday’s church service before everyone departed homeward. If you decide to listen to the podcast, please note I did not script this one, nor did I dive into the Word or use commentary for closing and apology my heart was too heavy to edit.  

Speaking about love, the love shared within our family and a few of grandmas’ teaching points passed along to us and the generations to follow. Therefore, I just felt like sharing some of my notes from the sermon of that day many years back regarding family love and its teaching.

The one thing we were taught is that family gives you two things, roots, and the other wings. However, the greatest gift of everything is love!

In chapter 12 of 1st Corinthians Paul gave evidence of the Corinthians’ lack of love in the utilization of spiritual gifts; chapter 13 defines real love; and chapter 14 shows how love works. Love is more important than all the spiritual gifts exercised in the church body. Great faith, acts of dedication or sacrifice, and miracle-working power produce very little without love. Love makes our actions and gifts useful. Although people have different gifts, love is available to everyone.

Love is the greatest of all human qualities, and it is an attribute of God Himself (1 John 4:8). Love involves unselfish service to others; to show it gives evidence that you care. Faith is the foundation and content of God’s message; hope is the attitude and focus; love is the action. When faith and hope are in line, you are free to love completely because you understand how God loves you.

Blessings,

Elder Barbara

LAB

Transcription

A MAN CRIED, THE LORD DELIVERED!

Summary

I WILL BLESS THE LORD. This episode is a reading from Psalm 34 a psalm of David when he changed his behavior before Abimelech; who drove him away, and he departed. The writer of this psalm praises the LORD for a miraculous deliverance from great trouble. His testimony encourages all afflicted believers to believe that they may also experience the goodness of the LORD.

7. The angel of the LORD probably refers to the angelic host of heaven. They are “ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation” (Heb. 1:14). God has appointed His angels to protect and rescue His saints from physical and spiritual harm. This promise of divine intervention is reserved only for those who truly fear God. Note that the promises in this psalm are conditional,  but many of these blessings require our active participation. He will deliver us from fear, save us from our troubles, guard and deliver us, show us goodness, supply our needs, listen when we talk to Him, and redeem us, but we must do our part. We can appropriate His blessings when we seek Him, cry out to Him, trust Him, fear Him, refrain from lying, turn from evil, do good and seek peace, are humble, and serve Him.

8. “Taste and see” does not mean, “Check out God’s credentials.” Instead, it is a warm invitation: “Try this; I know you’ll like it.” When we take that first step of obedience in following God, we cannot help discovering that He is good and kind. When we begin the Christian life, our knowledge of God is partial and incomplete. As we trust Him daily, we experience how good He is.

You say you belong to the LORD, but do you fear Him? To fear the LORD means to show deep respect and honor to Him. We demonstrate true reverence through our humble attitude and genuine worship.  Reverence was shown by Abraham (Gen 17:2-4), Moses (Ex 3:5,6), and the Israelites (Ex 19:16-24). Their reactions to God’s presence varied, but all deeply respected Him. 

9, 10. At first, we may question David’s statement, because we seem to lack many good things. This is not a blanket promise that all Christians will have everything they want. Instead, this is David’s praise for God’s goodness—all those who call upon God in their need will be answered, sometimes in unexpected ways. 

Remember, God knows what we need, and our deepest needs are spiritual. Many, even though faced with unbearable poverty and hardship, still have enough spiritual nourishment to live for God. David was saying that to have God is to have all you really need. God is enough.

The Bible often connects the fear of the LORD (love and reverence for Him) with obedience. “Fear God and keep His commandments” (Ecc 12:13); “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching” (John 14:23). 

Love the LORD thy God with all thy heart, with all thy being. God will never leave you nor forsake you. Stand upon the promises of God.

Blessings,

Elder Barbara

FL|LAB

Transcription

WINE, THE OLD IS BETTER!

Summary

 The Questioned About Fasting: When questioned about fasting, Jesus provided an answer with a nod towards the believer of today. Jesus expected believers to fast after He was gone. The days of the “bridegroom’s” absence is the period of this age, from the time of His ascension until His return. The church awaits this return of the bridegroom. Therefore, fasting in this age is (1) a sign of the believer’s longing for the return of his LORD, (2) a preparation for His coming, (3) a mourning of His absence, and (4) a sign of sorrow for the sin and the decay of the world.

New Wine Into Old Bottles: This verse has been interpreted in various ways by commentators. Two views are (1) The “new wine” was fresh grape juice. As it began to ferment, the new bottles (wineskins) would stretch and not break, whereas the old skins would break. The “new wine” represented the gospel as fermenting change that the old forms of Judaism could not contain. This view is questionable, however, because those familiar with the process of fermentation state that even the newest and strongest of wineskins, if sealed, would burst from the violent action of fermentation. (2) A second interpretation sees the parable as emphasizing the importance of preserving both the “new wine” and the fresh wineskins. The “new wine” was fresh unfermented grape juice, representing the original saving message of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit thrust forth at Pentecost. Jesus’ overriding concern was that the original gospel and redemptive power of the Holy Spirit be preserved from all change, corruption, or loss. This interpretation is supported by Christ’s concern that the gospel (new wine) not be altered by the teachings (leaven) of the Pharisees and Judaism (leaven being a fermenting/altering agent, Mat 16:6,12; Ex. 12:19; 1 Cor. 5:7).

Like old wineskins, the Pharisees were too rigid to accept Jesus, who could not be contained in their traditions or rules. Christianity required new approaches, new traditions, and new structures. We, too, must be careful that our hearts do not become so rigid that they prevent us from accepting the new way of thinking that Christ brings. We need to keep our hearts pliable so we can accept Jesus’ life-changing message.

Blessings,

Elder Barbara

LAB|FLB

Transcription

GIVE BACK EVERYTHING!

Summary

This story must have happened before the events recorded in chapter 5 because the seven-year famine must have ended before Gehazi was struck with leprosy. This shows Elisha’s long-term concern for this widow and contrasts his miraculous public ministry with his private ministry to this family. Elisha’s life exemplifies the kind of concern we should have for others.

Performing an act of kindness can be compared to throwing sand in the wind. You can be sure some of it will come back to you. This woman life’s after crossing paths with the prophet that she once had been led to feed and house, produced good fruit. Through Elisha’s prayers, her child was born and restored to life, and now Elisha warned her of the coming famine informing her to move her family until the time had passed.

GIVE BACK EVERYTHING: Returning to her home, which she had not renounced nor had she sold her property. Moreover, she returned within seven years (Dt 15:1—6: “At the end of every seven years you shall grant a release. 2 And this is the manner of the release: every creditor shall release what he has lent to his neighbor. He shall not exact it of his neighbor, his brother, because the Lord’s release has been proclaimed. 3 Of a foreigner you may exact it, but whatever of yours is with your brother your hand shall release. 4 But there will be no poor among you; for the Lord will bless you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you for an inheritance to possess— 5 if only you will strictly obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all this commandment that I command you today. 6 For the Lord your God will bless you, as he promised you, and you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow, and you shall rule over many nations, but they shall not rule over you.)

Since the property was still legally hers, she pressed her claim to the king. To whom, the king had just heard of the story regarding Elisha and the prayers he had prayed to God for this particular woman’s son, told by Gehazi the servant of the prophet. Upon hearing this amazing turn of events, the king assigned an official to her case and instructed that her land and holdings be returned to her, including the income her field had generated while she was gone.

God always remembers our acts of kindness (Mal 3:16 Then those who feared the LORD spoke with one another. The LORD paid attention and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written before him of those who feared the LORD and esteemed his name.)

Remember God can open the floodgates of heaven.

Blessings,

Elder Barbara

LA|HSB|TTEC

Transcription

A SON RESTORED TO LIFE!

Summary

The story of The Shunammite Woman provides us with the results of one that show kindness to another. This woman lived in the town of Shunem,  a village near Jezreel. She was a prominent woman with a husband. They lived in their own house, a home to which she not only opened her doors but requested her husband to build an additional room for a stranger. This Shunammite woman realized that Elisha was a man of God, so she prepared a room for him so that in his travels whenever he was in town he might have a place to rest his head from his travels. (See the flat roofs of houses at this time were used as extra living space, and often a small room would be built on the roof, which could be reached from outside. This accommodated a guest while providing privacy.)  

She did this out of kindness and because she sensed a need, not for any selfish motives. Soon, however, her kindness would be rewarded far beyond her wildest dreams.  Because of her acts of kindness, Elisha sought a way to repay her for the gratitude shown to him. Elisha offered to use his interest in her in the king’s court, which she declined. Noting that, “she dwells among her own people,” that is to say, “We are well off as we do not aim at preferment.”

Elisha inquired more about this woman and in his findings from his servant, Gehazi, he was informed she had no children. He called her and informed her that a year from the date she would conceive and hold her own child in her arms. 

(I was told during my biblical studies in the Word of God, “try a prophet by his word.)” 

Now being a true man of God, the prophet Elisha’s words rang true as the woman did give birth to a son, at the time of the season in which the prophet had spoken.  

Sadly, everything does not always go as you would hope or plan. One day down the road, this same Shunammite woman will seek the prophet in the midst of distress, to ask a sincere question of him, “Did I desire a son of my lord? did I not say, Do not deceive me?” Her questions to Elisha are heartbreaking.

Take a moment and listen to the podcast and see how the prophet addresses this urgent question, or read 2 Kings 4:8-37 for the conclusion of the whole matter. 

Blessings,

Elder Barbara

HSB|LAB|MHSB

Transcription

A SINGLE JAR OF OIL

Summary

This reading is taken from 2nd Kings 4:1-7 and tells of the story of the Widow whose husband was in the company of the prophets under the Prophet Elisha. After the death of her husband, the creditors came around demanding that the debts owned by her husband be paid. She inturned cried out to Elisha that the creditor was coming to take her children as slaves to work off what was owed.  Poor people and debtors were allowed to pay their debts by selling themselves or their children as slaves. God ordered rich people and creditors not to take advantage of these people during their time of extreme need (see Deut. 15:1-18 for an explanation of these practices). This woman’s creditor was not acting in the spirit of God’s law. Elisha’s kind deed demonstrates that God wants us to go beyond simply keeping the law. We must also show compassion.

God cares for His faithful who are in need and distressed. This widow and her children represent God’s forsaken and oppressed people. Elisha provided the remedy for her problem by telling her to collect jars from their neighbors, pouring oil into them from A SINGLE JAR OF OIL that she said was all that was left in her house. The oil was probably olive oil and was used for cooking, lamps, and for fuel. 

The oil stopped pouring only when they ran out of containers. The number of jars they gathered was an indication of their faith. God’s provision was as large as their faith and willingness to obey. Beware of limiting God’s blessings by a lack of faith and obedience. God is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine. (Ephesians 3:20)

When reading the Old Testament, it is easy to focus on God’s harsh judgment of the rebellious and to minimize His tender care for those who love and serve Him. To see Him at work providing for His followers helps us keep His severe justice toward the unrepentant in proper perspective. 

Blessings,

Elder Barbara

FL|LA|TTEBC

Transcription

I’M EVERY WOMAN, From A to Z!

Summary

Powerful, Strong, I’m every woman! Proverbs has a lot to say about women. How lifting that the book ends with a picture of a woman of strong character, great wisdom, many skills, and great compassion. Verses 10—31 describe the ideal woman, wife, and mother. Her whole life is centered around a reverent fear of God, compassion for those in need, and faithfulness and loves toward her family. The woman described in this chapter has outstanding abilities. Her family’s social position is high. In fact, she may not be one woman at all—she may be a composite portrait of ideal womanhood.  She works not to get rich but to give of herself to her family and to those around her. 

An attribute of kindness is valued far above physical charm in God’s sight, charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD will be praised. In our society where physical appearance counts for so much, is she too thin/skinny, or is she too full/heavy, or is she too short/tall, it may surprise us to realize that the woman here in Proverbs 31:10, appearance is never mentioned. Time has a way of its own in erasing outward beauty, however, it is the beauty that is within that is everlasting. She has a heart of gold that shines forth reflections of the inward beauty of her God-given attributes. 

As to her household, she spends money wisely and uses it in the best way to get maximum productivity for the benefit of her family. Those of her household, her husband, and her children rise up and call her blessed. She is a daughter, a sister, and a friend she is always one to stretch forth a caring hand. 

Do not see her as a model to imitate in every detail; your days are not long enough to do everything she does! See her instead as an inspiration to be all you can be. We can’t be just like her, but we can learn from her industry, integrity, and resourcefulness.  

Blessings,

Elder Barbara

FL|LA|TE|Haley’s

Transcription

WHEN THE FLOOD WATERS CAME

Summary

LORD, LORD. This 4m episode of “WHEN THE FLOOD WATERS CAME,” provides you with the readings taken from the Book of Luke verses 46 to 49. The commentary presents an insight into what the heart should say in response to the question, “Why do you call me, ‘LORD, LORD’, and do not do what I say?” Jesus pointed out that those who called Him by this title of respect acknowledged submission to Him. However, when these same people ignored His teaching, they were guilty of hypocrisy. 

Hearing and reading God’s Word is absolutely essential. But if you stop there, disaster will result. The Bible wasn’t meant to be merely studied and memorized; it was meant to be believed and obeyed. We are to “be doers of the Word and not hearers only” see Jas 1:22. 

Obeying God is like building a house on a strong, solid foundation that stands firm when storms come. When life is calm, our foundations don’t seem to matter. But when crises come, our foundations are tested. Be sure your life is built on the solid foundation of knowing and trusting in Jesus Christ.

Blessings,

Elder Barbara

HSB|TTEBC|LAB

Transcription

MEDITATING ON HIS WORD featuring Bob Hayes

Summary

This 3min episode informs those who are blessed by God not only turn from evil but also build their lives around the words of the LORD. They seek to obey God’s will out of hearts that genuinely take pleasure in God’s ways and commandments whereas the wicked perish because they refused to love the truth. 

What motivates their actions are their redeemed spirits and emotions, captivated by the truth of God as found in His Word. Those seeking to live under God’s blessing meditate on God’s law (i.e., His Word) in order to shape their thinking, attitudes, and actions. They read the words of Scripture, ponder them, and compare them with other Scriptures. When meditating on a passage in the Bible, questions such as these cross their minds. 

  • Is God’s Spirit applying this verse to my present situation? 
  • Is there a promise here for me to claim?
  • Is the passage revealing a particular sin I must strive to avoid?
  • Is God issuing a command I must obey?
  • Is my spirit in harmony with what the Holy Scripture is saying? 
  • Is the passage expressing a truth about God, salvation, sin, the world, or my personal obedience on which I need to be enlightened by the Holy Spirit? 

These I ponder.

Blessings,

Elder Barbara

TTECB|CSB/FL

Transcription