Shavuah Tov,

Rabbi’s Note:  David submitted the RR below, giving me the option to use it or send it back to him (and he would submit something else for this week).  You see, David is a “man under authority.”  Even Yeshua was under authority, as we all are (or should be).  The danger of this RR is that some will view it as a license to be independent of ministry authority.  It isn’t, and David agrees with that statement.  Remember, even the Lone Ranger (although only a legend) was submitted to the local authorities.  

There is a difference between a “lone ranger” and a “parking lot prophet.”  Parking lot prophets are people who minister in the parking lot after the service because they are not submitted to the authority of the leadership.  If they were properly submitted, they would be recognized to minister in the building.  Don’t submit your life to a parking lot prophet, and nothing in this RR suggests that is a good idea.  End RN.

In Praise of the Lone Ranger
By David Harwood 

Last week I shared about the importance of the corporate armor of God. I stressed the vital connection we’re to have with one another to prevail in spiritual warfare. 

May I briefly share my testimony? 

I’ve been leading the same fellowship for almost fifty years. In 1982 I was ordained by two spiritual fathers and, also, in 1994, by about eight local leaders. I serve as an advisor to a local ministers network, am affiliated with Tikkun, and at this time my primary itinerant ministry is focused on a neighboring county – Queens, NYC. I’m not disconnected, disenfranchised, nor do I despise local congregations, networks, or denominations. 

But I’m writing sympathetically about lone rangers.

Lone Rangers have a bad name, but was the Lone Ranger a bad guy? Was he a loose cannon? Was he disconnected from society?

The Story:

John Reid (obviously not a real person), began his career as part of a legitimate, effective, recognized, organized group. He was a Texas Ranger. However, the troop he was with was betrayed, his brother and friends were killed, and he was wounded. Reid was rescued and cared for by Tonto – a disenfranchised honorable man. 

John Reid decided to continue to work for righteousness, but to do so outside the system.

He wore a mask.

The masked man maintained relationships with legitimate authority. He did not work outside the law. He worked apart from the law enforcement establishment. He still enjoyed the respect of those he used to work with. He did not undermine them. He did not disrespect their roles. He worked with local authority, but resisted unjust people who held legitimate offices.

When confronting evil, Reid would often disguise himself. People wouldn’t know it was the masked man, the man with a hidden identity. He did not help people for his own glory, but compassionately and righteously helped those in trouble. 

Upon completing his task he rode away from recognition. The people he helped did not know who he was. But others did. They identified him and gave him credit. His praise didn’t come from his own mouth. When finished with one problem he knew there were more people to help, and so, on to his next assignment.

This was his life.

By their fruits we shall know them.

From my perspective, there needs to be room for lone rangers to relate to and benefit local congregations. Often those who are itinerant claim to be connected to local congregations but their relationship with them is actually one of occasional attendance. Yet, their family lives are solid and their friendships with the leaders of the place they attend are in good repair, but... really, they function as lone rangers.

Some thoughts about Yeshua.

Yeshua was a rabbi, but from all we know, He was not part of the rabbinic schools of His day. (John 1:28,49; 3:2; 4:31; 6:25; 9:2; 11:8; 20:16) He affirmed that which was wholesome and rejected that which was a perversion of God’s purposes. (Mark 12:34)

He stayed connected to the Temple and synagogue. (John 18:20) Yeshua upheld the Torah. He honored the traditions of the elders when they did not conflict with the Written Word, or the underlying principles of Torah. (Mark 2:25-27; Matthew 15:6b-8)

Yeshua told people not to publicize the extraordinary healings He did and was loyal to His people, working within His culture. (Matthew 8:4)

He ministered in one village and went on to the next. (Matthew 9:35)

Some thoughts about Paul. 

Paul was not part of the Jerusalem establishment. He honored them, but did not inordinately respect them. (Acts 15:32; Galatians 2:1-2,6)

After he was sent out from Antioch it does not appear that he had an established accountability structure. Yes, he would occasionally show up and report what was happening, (Acts 14:26-27) but it was not the same thing  as saying, “Elders in Antioch, I submit my theology and practices to you.” There’s no hint of that.

In addition, Paul did not always make important decisions in harmony with his team. He left his senior partner and patron, Barnabus, and struck out on his own. (Acts 15:39) His decision to ignore spiritual counsel and go to Jerusalem shows his independence. (Acts 20:22–23; 21:4,13-14) He upheld the legitimacy of his co-workers’ individual choices. (1 Corinthians 16:12)

Lone rangers... Bad?

Maybe some are actually sent.

“Because of this, behold, I’m sending you prophets and wise men and Torah scholars. Some of them you will kill and execute at the stake, and some of them you will scourge in your synagogues and persecute from city to city.” (Matthew 23:34 TLV) 


Scriptures Referenced

Yeshua turned around and saw them following. He said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to Him, “Rabbi” (which is translated Teacher), “where are you staying?” (John 1:38) 

“Rabbi,” Nathanael answered, “You are Ben-Elohim! You are the King of Israel!” (John 1:49) 

He came to Yeshua at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that You, a teacher, have come from God. For no one can perform these signs which You do unless God is with Him!” (John 3:2) 

Meanwhile, the disciples were pressing Him, “Rabbi, eat!” (John 4:31) 

When they found Him on the other side of the sea, they said, “Rabbi, when did You get here?” (John 6:25) 

His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he should be born blind?” (John 9:2) 

“Rabbi,” the disciples say to Him, “just now the Judean leaders were trying to stone You! And You’re going back there again?” (John 11:8) 

Yeshua says to her, “Miriam!” Turning around, she says to Him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). (John 20:16) 

When Yeshua saw that he had answered wisely, He said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And no one dared any longer to question Him. (Mark 12:34) 

“I have spoken openly to the world,” Yeshua answered him. “I always taught in the synagogues and the Temple, where all the Jewish people come together. I spoke nothing in secret. (John 18:20) 

And He said to them, “Haven’t you ever read what David did when he was in need, and he and those with him became hungry? How he entered into the house of God when Abiathar was kohen gadol and ate the showbread, which is permitted only for the kohanim to eat, and gave some even to those who were with him?” Then He said to them, “Shabbat was made for man, and not man for Shabbat. (Mark 2:25–27) 

On account of your tradition, you made void the word of God. Hypocrites! Rightly did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying, ‘This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. (Matthew 15:6b–8) 

And Yeshua said to him, “See that you tell no one; but go show yourself to the kohen and offer the gift that Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.” (Matthew 8:4) 

Now Yeshua was going around all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the Good News of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and sickness. (Matthew 9:35) 

When Paul and Barnabas had a big argument and debate with them, the brothers appointed Paul and Barnabas with some others from among them to go up to Jerusalem to the emissaries and elders about this issue. (Acts 15:2) 

Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus with me. Because of a revelation, I went up and presented to them the Good News that I proclaim among the Gentiles. But I did so privately to those who seemed to be influential, to make sure I would not run—or had not run—in vain. (Galatians 2:1–2) 

But from those who seemed to be influential (whatever they were makes no difference to me; God shows no partiality)—well, those influential ones added nothing to my message. (Galatians 2:6) 

From there they sailed back to Antioch (where they had been entrusted to the gracious care of God for the work now completed). When they arrived and gathered together Messiah’s community, they began to report all that God had done in helping them and that He had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles. (Acts 14:26–27) 

A sharp disagreement took place, so that they split off from one another. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus. (Acts 15:39) 

“And now, look, bound by the Ruach, I am going to Jerusalem—not knowing what will happen to me there, except that the Ruach ha-Kodesh bears witness to me from city to city, saying that bondage and afflictions await me. (Acts 20:22–23) 

We looked up the disciples and stayed there seven days. They kept telling Paul through the Ruach not to set foot in Jerusalem. (Acts 21:4) 

Then Paul responded, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound but to die for the name of the Lord Yeshua!” Since he would not be persuaded, we fell silent, saying only, “May the Lord’s will be done.” (Acts 21:13–14) 

Now about our brother Apollos, I strongly urged him to come to you with the brothers and sisters, and he was quite unwilling to come now—but he will come when he has an opportunity. (1 Corinthians 16:12) 

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sun26-July-202612th of Av, 5786
De 7:12-8:10Ez 34-351 Ch 131 Th 5(Jn 4:1-30)

Shabbat Shalom,

The Parshah this week is Va’Etchanan which comes from Deuteronomy 3:23 I (Moses) pleaded (Va’Etchanan) with ADONAI…

In this parshah, Moses pleads to enter the land, Israel is commanded to obey Torah, Trans-Jordan cities of refuge are identified, the Ten Words are reiterated, the Shema is given, and the people are warned about becoming complacent.

Deuteronomy 4:23-31 Watch yourselves, so that you do not forget the covenant of ADONAI your God which He cut with you, and make for yourselves a graven image…(if) you act corruptly and make a graven image and do evil in the sight of ADONAI your God…you will be carried off quickly from the land…ADONAI will scatter you among the peoples, and you will be left with but a few…among the nations where ADONAI will drive you.

The LORD predicted that Israel would bend under the pressures of the nations around them. They would worship idols and make unholy sacrifices; they would do evil in the sight of the Lord.

Hence the warning in Deuteronomy 7:1-6 When ADONAI your God brings you into the land you are entering to possess and drives out many nations before you…and ADONAI your God gives them over to you and you strike them down, then you are to totally destroy them…(do not) give your daughter to his son or take his daughter for your son, (they) will turn your son away from following me to serve other gods...

ADONAI knew that if the Israelites left any remnants of the nations in the land they would be pressured to join these nations and worship their idols.

Then most Israelites would be removed from the land and scattered among the nations. Yet ADONAI also predicted that there would come a time when the people would return to Him, that the people would seek ADONAI and seek to obey Him. Then ADONAI would return his people to the land.

Deuteronomy 4:29 But from there (the diaspora) you will seek ADONAI your God, you will find Him if you look for him with all your heart and with all your soul.

Psalm 63:1 O God, You are my God, earnestly I seek You; my soul thirsts for You, my body longs for You.

Matthew 7:7-8 Yeshua says Ask, and it shall be given to you. Seek, and you shall find. Knock and it shall be opened to you. For everyone who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it shall be opened.

What exactly does it mean to seek after God? Yeshua seems to be pointing to us getting to know God. When we seek after someone and knock on their door, we get an opportunity to get to know them.

Just remember there is a world of difference between knowing about someone and knowing them.

Knowing someone requires spending time with that person, building a personal relationship.

It’s the same way with ADONAI. When you accept Yeshua as your personal savior Yeshua helps you to “knock” on ADONAI’s door.

John 17:3 “This is eternal life that they may know You, the only true God, and Yeshua, the one You sent.”

Yeshua introduces us to God when we turn from sin, turn to God and trust in Yeshua.

Then we must develop our relationship with ADONAI through months and years of study and prayer.

Psalm 119:66-68 Teach me knowledge and good judgement, for I believe in Your commands. Before I was afflicted and went astray, but now I obey Your word. You are good and what You do is good, teach me Your decrees.

There David is admitting that he used to live a crazy, sinful life. Then he was introduced to ADONAI and found that He is good, and He does good things for people who trust in Him. David pleads with ADONAI to teach him Torah, and through Torah to give him the knowledge and judgement to make better life choices. He’s seeking to “know” God.

We have all made bad choices. ADONAI knew that we would need a Savior. So, He made a way for us. All we need to do is to trust in Yeshua and get to know Him through study and prayer. Then as the Psalmist says:

Psalm 63:5-6 I will bless You as long as I live. In Your name I will lift my hands. My soul is satisfied with fat and oil, so my mouth praises you with joyful lips.

Shabbat Shalom

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sat25-July-202611th of Av, 5786
Parashat Vaetchanan Shabbat Nachamu
De 5:22[19]-7:11Isa 40:1-281 Pe 1:18-25

(Early) Shabbat Shalom,

Psalm 59:Psa 59:7 They return at evening, snarling like a dog, prowling about the city. 8 See, they are spewing with their mouth—swords in their lips—“After all, who is listening?” 9 But You, Adonai, are laughing at them. You scoff at all the nations. 10 O my strength, I watch for You—for God is my strong tower.

There are three “players” in these four verses.  First, there is “they” (and what “they” are doing to disrupt the purposes of God). Then, in verse 9, we have, “But You, Adonai(YHVH).”  Aren’t we glad those words are in the Bible?  Where would we be without them?  “But God” saves us from certain destruction.  Finally, there is “us.”  We are the third party.

Here, in verse 9, God is laughing at “them” (our enemies).  That’s what God does, He laughs at those who oppose Him.  He is not threatened.  God is secure in His identity.  Those who oppose God have a certain (predetermined) destiny.  Romans 6:23 For sin’s payment is death, but God’s gracious gift is eternal life in Messiah Yeshua our Lord.  Want more good news?  God has arranged for us to determine our own destiny.  

Joshua 24:15  If it seems bad to you to worship Adonai, then choose for yourselves today whom you will serve—whether the gods that your fathers worshipped that were beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will worship Adonai!”

Or, perhaps the more often used scripture to support the idea that the choice is our own…1Kings 18:21a Then Elijah approached all the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If Adonai is God, follow Him; but if Baal is, follow him.”  Elijah spoke to a people who were conflicted… 1Kings 18:21b But the people did not answer him, not even a word.  Don’t be conflicted.  If you deny the power of God transform your life, God will laugh at you.

It is way better that we have God as our strong tower.  Proverbs 18:10 The Name of Adonai is a strong tower. The righteous one runs into it and is set safely up high.  There is trouble in the world today, and more trouble coming.  That’s the promise of Matthew 24:21 For then there will be great trouble, such as has not happened since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will.  

Let’s not follow a delusion and finish outside of righteousness, looking up to the kingdom of God with no way to enter in.  This takes us to images of the rich man and Lazarus.  Luke 16:26 Besides all this, between us and you a great chasm is firmly set, so that those who want to cross over to you cannot, nor can those from there cross over to us.  Choose wisely my friends.  Shabbat shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Fri24-July-202610th of Av, 5786
De 5:1-21[18]Ez 331 Ch 121 Th 4 (Jn 3)

Shalom,

Psalm 59:5 For no guilt of mine, they run and set things up. Awake! Help me! Look! 6 For You are Adonai Elohei-Tzva’ot, the God of Israel! Rouse Yourself to punish all the nations. Show no mercy to any iniquitous traitors. Selah

David is a hunted man.  He is being hunted by men who had previously followed him in battle against a common enemy.  Now, those same men have turned against him, all because an obsessed king said so.  Things for Yeshua were much the same.  He also was hunted by His own people.

Our freedom in America has caused us to forget the tyranny of kings.  We have the sovereign God, but in many parts of the world, they have, or had, a sovereign king.  There can only be one sovereign in any one place at any one time.  By definition, a “sovereign” must be obeyed immediately and without question.  Any unaddressed rebellion at all means the “sovereign” is no longer “sovereign.”

God alone is sovereign in heaven.  Psalm 103:19 Adonai has set up His throne in the heavens, and His kingdom rules over all.  The battle raging between good and evil in the earth today is over who will reign on earth.  So we pray… Matthew 6:10 Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.  God’s will in heaven is done immediately and without question.

Rabbi Trail: God warned Israel through the prophet, Samuel, against having a king since He was already their King.  1Samuel 8:11 “This will be the practice of the king that will reign over you,” he said. “He will draft your sons, etc… 17b Then you yourselves will become his slaves. 18 When the day comes and you cry out because of your king, whom you have chosen for yourselves, Adonai will not answer you on that day.”

But the people insisted, and God gave them their desires.  1Samuel 10:19 “But today you have spurned your God, who is your deliverer from all your calamities and your distresses. For you said to Him: ‘No! Rather set a king over us.’ Now therefore present yourselves before Adonai by your tribes and by your thousands.”…24b Then all the people shouted and said, “Long live the king!”  End RT.

All David can do is to call upon the greater King, Who is the Lord.  We are all hunted.  Satan wants our souls.  And the only hope of salvation for any of us is to follow David’s example, and call upon the Lord.  

Psalm 91:14 “Because he has devoted his love to Me, I will deliver him. I will set him securely on high, because he knows My Name. 15 When he calls on Me, I will answer him. I will be with him in trouble, rescue him, and honor him.

Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Thu23-July-20269th of Av, 5786Tish’a B’Av
De 4:25-40Jer 8:13-9:23Lam 1-51 Co 3:1-20
Ex 32:11-14; 34:10 (afternoon) Isa 55:6-56:8 (afternoon) Mt 5:1-12 (afternoon)

Shalom,

Rabbi’s Note: Take a look at the Hebrew date in the “Daily Bread” section below.  You know what that means?  The RR for tomorrow, July 23rd is for Tisha B’Av, the 9th day of the Hebrew month Av, a date of many Jewish calamities throughout history.  For insight into the most observant of Jewish practices, click this link… https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/144576/jewish/Tisha-BAv-Order-of-the-Day.htm End RN.
_______

Psalm 59:3 Deliver me from workers of iniquity. Rescue me from bloodthirsty men. 4 For behold, they lie in wait for me. Defiant men stir up strife against me—not for my transgression or sin, Adonai.

Verses two and three both start with the same word.  In both verses, David (Notwithstanding that some scholars believe this Psalm was written much later by Nehemiah because Nehemiah also had enemies who plotted to kill him.) is calling upon God for deliverance.  In verse two, he seeks deliverance from his enemies, while in verse three, he is seeking deliverance from “workers of iniquity.”  

As with all Scripture, we must ask the question, “What is God saying to me through these words?  How does this speak to my life?”  First, let’s do a quick study…..  “What is deliverance?”  Or, perhaps a better way to phrase the question is, “What needs deliverance?”  This is at the very heart of Yeshua’s ministry.  

Isaiah 61:1 The Spirit of Adonai Elohim is on me, because Adonai has anointed me to proclaim Good News to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.  

Yeshua read this in his hometown (Nazareth) synagogue, affirming this is his ministry… Luke 4:21 Then He began to tell them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your ears.”  Yeshua spoke, and the people heard in their ears, but they were not ready to receive it in their hearts.  Deliverance happens in the heart.

Back to our original question, Who needs deliverance?  Let me answer unequivocally, “Everybody!”  And to the second question, “What needs deliverance?”  Our verse from Psalm 59 answers the question, if you look at the Hebrew, the English misses it.  Psalm 59:4a For behold, they lie in wait for me.  The Hebrew says, “They lie is wait for my soul.”  The Hebrew word for soul is “Nefesh,” meaning, “the life giving force that is within me.”  Make no mistake, that’s what the enemy wants.  Add to that, we are all captives of sin.  We all need deliverance from that captivity.  

Stop and ask!  Then pray for deliverance and Malachi 3:20(4:2) “But for you who revere My Name, the sun of righteousness will rise, with healing in its wings.”  That “sun of righteousness” is the bright and morning star!

Revelation 22:16 “I, Yeshua, have sent My angel to testify these things to you for My communities. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.”
   
Oh this is good!  What’s better?  When you receive it, it becomes your goodness, direct from the throne of God.  Shalom shalom.
 
Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Wed22-July 20268th of Av, 5786
De 4:41-49Ez 321 Ch 111 Th 3 (Jn 2)

Shalom,

Psalm 59:1 For the music director: “Do Not Destroy,” a Michtam of David, when Saul sent men to watch the house to kill him. 2 Deliver me from my enemies, my God! Set me on high, away from those who rise up against me.

David is a hunted man whose only hope is that God will deliver him from his enemies.  What he is writing about here, is a story that is retold in 1Samuel 19.  Specifically, 1Samuel 19:11 Then Saul sent agents to David’s house to watch him, in order to kill him in the morning. But David’s wife Michal warned him saying, “If you don’t escape for your life tonight, tomorrow you will be dead!” 12 So Michal lowered David down through the window, and thus he went, fled and escaped.  Spoiler Alert: God answers David’s prayer for deliverance.  He survives many attempts on his life, and lives to old age.  He died naturally, meaning nobody killed him, though there were many who tried.

This is the third Psalm in a row to start with these words.  Psalm 59:1a For the music director: “Do Not Destroy,” a Michtam of David.  “Do not destroy” in Hebrew is “Al Tash’chet” which was probably the opening words to a popular tune in David’s time.  It is likely a musical designation, containing implied instructions to the conductor of the worship team related to the singing or instrumentation of the poem.

Rabbi’s Note:  Psalm 75 is a fourth “Al Tash’chet” but it is of Asaph.  End RN.

In David’s initial petition before God, he asks for two things: “deliver me,” and “set me on high.”  In transliterated Hebrew, “Hatzi’lay’ni” and “T’sag’vay’ni” respectively.  (Hebrew is naturally poetic due to the similar structures of words, especially the same prefixes and suffixes.)  To be delivered is to be set free.  It is a word that figures prominently in the Passover story.  

To be set high includes the figurative understanding of being exalted. Ultimately, it is not us who will be set up high, but Yeshua….  Isaiah 2:17 The pride of man will be humbled, the arrogance of men abased, for Adonai alone will be exalted in that day. 18 The idols will completely pass away.  Oh, did I leave out the fact that we will be seated in high places together with Him?  

Ephesians 2:5 Even when we were dead in our trespasses, He made us alive together with Messiah. (By grace you have been saved!) 6 And He raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Messiah Yeshua.  Deliverance from our enemies and seated together with Yeshua!  What could be better?  Paul is quoting Isaiah 64:3(4)…

1Corinthians 2:9 But as it is written, “Things no eye has seen and no ear has heard, that have not entered the heart of mankind—these things God has prepared for those who love Him.”  

Shalom shalom.

Tue21-July 20267th of Av, 5786
De 4:5-40Ez 311 Ch 101 Th 2  (Jn 1:29-51)

Shavuah Tov,

Rabbi’s Note:  The link below takes you to a beautiful six minute video David prepared for us.  I watched it and find it an excellent companion to this RR.  David and I agree, enjoy.  

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1U7qUpiH49bgpqdr5spoW379poASYgRbF/view

The hope of our experiencing salvation is found in 1 Thessalonians.

But since we are of the day, let us be sober-minded—putting on the breastplate of faithfulness and love, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. For God did not destine us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Yeshua the Messiah. He died for us so that, whether we may be awake or asleep, we may live together with Him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up—just as you in fact are doing. (1 Thessalonians 5:8–11 TLV)

Note the corporate aspect of this exhortation:
WE are of the day
Let US be sober
God has not destined US for wrath
Yeshua died for US
Whether WE wake or sleep, WE will live with Him
Encourage one another, as YOU (plural) in fact are doing

The writers meant to secure their readers' faith and strengthen their walk with the Lord. Yet the community only benefits as each individual applies these words. If one disciple is not sober-minded, the whole body's outlook is diluted. Disciples are called to encourage and edify each other—and that works as each person applies the instruction to their own life. So every disciple needs the helmet, the hope of salvation, securely fastened.

One word about hope. Here—and in every context—hope means confident expectation. It is not, "I sure hope I was saved, and there's a good possibility I will be at the day of judgment." It is this:

I was saved. I have been saved. I am saved. I am being saved. I will be saved—through our Lord Yeshua the Messiah.

What kind of salvation is this? It is the individual's eschatological salvation. The wrath in view is the outcome of God's final judgment upon corporate and individual wickedness at the Judgment.

Now consider the helmet in Ephesians 6. It has much in common with what we have seen, but a wholly different nuance: Paul's emphasis falls on the Corporate Warrior.

Paul uses many metaphors for the Ephesians' corporate identity: the Messiah's Body (1:22); One New Man and God's dwelling place (2:15, 21–22); a mature man (4:13); Yeshua's wife (5:32). Following that pattern, in chapter 6 we are to receive the identity of God's corporate warrior—and the armor is meant to cover and equip the entire community. The helmet of salvation, then, refers to a mindset of mission the Messianic community is to maintain.

And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:17)

Here the helmet of salvation is a faith-filled determination to bring salvation to others—the confident expectation that when the believers show up, they bring deliverance with them. Each individual is equipped, but the context is the Body partaking of God's nature. After all, it is His body, and His body wears His armor.

Was Paul really calling the community and each disciple to keep their mission in mind? We can discern it from the verses he referenced. Consider Isaiah 59:

Then His own arm brought salvation to Him, and His righteousness upheld Him. He put on righteousness like a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on His head; and He put on garments of vengeance for clothing and wrapped Himself with zeal as a mantle. (Isaiah 59:14–20)

God's helmet of salvation is not guarding His mind to assure Him of His own salvation—the thought is ridiculous. His helmet complements His mindset to bring deliverance. Paul quoted Isaiah 59 in Romans and proclaimed that the Deliverer would come. This coming Deliverer has armor.

So let us fasten on our helmet. Let us set our hope on God's activity—promised in Isaiah 59 and described in individual eschatological terms in 1 Thessalonians 5. As harbingers of Yeshua's ultimate saving act, we bring deliverance that presages the coming kingdom. To bring salvation we need the intention and expectation of bringing it—and for that, the hope of our own being saved must be securely in place.

We are part of God's corporate warrior. Let's believe it, and put our helmet on.

Written by David Harwood. Condensed for length with AI assistance.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sun19-July 20265th of Av, 5786
De 4:25-40Ez 291 Ch 8Col 4  (Lk 24)

Shalom,

Psalm 58:11 The righteous one will rejoice when he beholds vengeance, when he washes his feet in the blood of the wicked. 12 Then men will say: “There really is a reward for the righteous. There really is a God who judges on earth!”

These are the last two verses of Psalm 58.  So the Psalm concludes, “Surely, there is a God Who is judging on the earth.”  Such a victory expression follows terms that are reserved for war.  Remember that in ancient times, war was a bloody, hand to hand fight to the death.  “The righteous… will wash his feet in the blood of the wicked.”  Yes, there really is a God Who gives His people the victory.

God has promised Himself the victory.  Proverbs 21:31b …but victory comes from Adonai.  And every victory flows through the Son of God, Yeshua HaMashiach.  1Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, who keeps giving us the victory through our Lord Yeshua the Messiah!

These victories are promised to the people of God, also known as the children of Israel.  2Samuel 7:23 What one nation on earth is like Your people, like Israel, whom God went to redeem for Himself as a people, to make for Himself a Name, to do for You a great thing and awesome deeds for Your land, before Your people whom You redeemed for Yourself from Egypt—driving out nations and their gods?

Wait!  Before you leave disappointed and feeling excluded, there is a prophecy of being grafted in.  By faith in the Son, you (who were far off and alienated) are included.  This is good news for both Israel and the nations.  Ephesians 2:12 At that time you were separate from Messiah, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Messiah Yeshua, you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of the Messiah. 14 For He is our shalom, the One who made the two into one and broke down the middle wall of separation. Within His flesh He made powerless the hostility… 18 for through Him we both have access to the Father by the same Ruach. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but you are fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household.

Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Mon20-July 20266th of Av, 5786
De 3:23-4:4Ez 301 Ch 91 Th 1 (Jn 1:1-28)

Shabbat Shalom,

This week we start the last book of Torah. Deuteronomy, Devarim in Hebrew, is the plural form of devar – meaning word. So, Devarim is words. This comes from the opening verse, “These are the words (devarim) that Moses spoke to all Israel across the Jordan – in the wilderness...”

Deuteronomy, from the Greek deuteron nomos meaning second law or repetition of the law. This is also an accurate name for Deuteronomy as that is largely what Deuteronomy is – a second telling of the Law by Moses before he hands leadership over to Joshua.

As I was reading though the Torah portion, Deuteronomy 1:5 really stuck out to me.

Across the Jordan in the land of Moab, Moses began to explain this Torah…

What is this statement about? Why did Moses need to explain Torah?

Perhaps the easiest answer is that he was led by the LORD to more carefully explain Torah to the people. Maybe to even clear up a few misunderstandings or potential stumbling blocks. Maybe some of the people had already been taking the commandments too literally thereby missing the intent of the command or perhaps not taking the commandments literally enough again missing the intent.

The prophet Isaiah opens his prophesy in Isaiah 1:2-3 Listen! Heavens, and hear, earth, for ADONAI has spoken: “Sons I have raised and brought up, but they have rebelled against me. The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its manger, but Israel does not know, My people do not understand.

Yeshua also spoke on this in Mark 7:6-9 …Rightly did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, as it is written: ‘This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’

“Having left behind the commandments of God, you hold onto the traditions of men.” He was also telling them, you set aside the commands of God, in order that you may validate your own traditions.

The LORD led Moses to restate Torah, perhaps more carefully to ensure the people completely understood Torah. Isaiah is linking rebellion to not understanding God’s intent. Yeshua is reminding people that Torah obedience is far more important than traditions.

But aren’t we saved by grace through our faith in Yeshua? If so, what relevance does Torah have for us? Paul has this to say about Torah in Romans 3:30-31:

Since God is One, He will set right the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith. Do we then nullify the Torah through faithfulness? May it never be! On the contrary, we uphold the Torah.

How can we uphold Torah? Through careful study…of the Bible. We must know Scripture.

Yet some persist with Torah being “old law,” meaning that it is somehow no longer relevant.

Matthew 5:17-19 “Do not think that I (Yeshua) came to abolish the Torah or the Prophets! I did not come to abolish, but to fulfill. Amen, I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or sherif shall ever pass away from the Torah until all things come to pass. Therefore, whoever breaks even the least of these commandments, and teaches others the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever keeps and teaches them, this one shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”

I cannot see heaven (yet), but I can see the earth. It looks solid enough to me. I am pretty sure this means that not even the smallest letter or sherif have passed from Torah. I have no idea what Yeshua means when he says “least in heaven.” But I am guessing that it isn’t a good thing.

Rashi, the 11th Century Jewish commentator taught that the meaning of “explain this Torah” (Deuteronomy 1:5) was that Moses had the Torah translated into the seventy languages – all the languages of the world. Rashi further explained that the LORD was commanding the Jews to take Torah to the whole world.

Because we are adopted into the Nation of Israel, we too share in the responsibility to bring the LORD’s Torah to all peoples.

Kind of an interesting set of reminders – from Moses, Isaiah, Yeshua, Paul and Rashi (among many others), know (study) God’s Word and share the Good News with the whole world.

Shabbat Shalom!

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sat18-July 20264th of Av, 5786
Parashat Devarim Shabbat Chazon
De 3:15-22Isa 1:1-27Mt 3:1-12

(Early) Shabbat Shalom,

Psalm 58:7 O God, break their teeth in their mouths. Tear out the fangs of young lions, Adonai. 8 Let them flow away like water that runs off. When he bends his bow, let the arrows be cut off. 9 Like a slug melting away as it slithers, like a woman’s miscarriage, may they never see the sun. 10 Even before your pots can feel a thorn—whether alive or ablaze—He will sweep the wicked away.

I’m dealing with these four verses of Psalm 58 all together because David is expressing himself poetically as he prays over what he wants God to do to his enemies.  David did not quite have the fullness of the love of Yeshua.  Contrast our subject verses with this teaching from Yeshua’s Sermon on the Mount….

Matthew 5:43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Even the tax collectors do the same, don’t they? 47 And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than anyone else? Even the pagans do that, don’t they? 48 Therefore be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.”

Rabbi Trail: The second Hebrew word of Psalm 58, verse 7 is “Haras” (translated “break”).  I bring it up here as it could be related etymologically to our English word, “harass,” which means, “To subject (another) to hostile or prejudicial remarks or actions; pressure or intimidate.”  

I read this definition on the internet, so it must be true.  More seriously, it was offered without reference or credit, so, while I can’t take credit for it, I don’t know how to assign it either.  Upon further research, I believe it should be credited as follows… The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition.  I wish to thank them publicly.  End RT.

Previously, in Psalm 57, verse 5, David told us the teeth of our enemies are spears and arrows.  Now, in Psalm 58, verse 7, he is calling upon God to break their “teeth” in their mouths, meaning before they can spew them forth them as weapons.  

Notwithstanding that plain imagery, there is some difficult imagery in verse 10 concerning “pots” that are “alive or ablaze.”  David explains what he means, at the end of the verse, when he says plainly, “He will sweep the wicked away.”  The “meat in the pots” is David’s enemies in the form of the new kingship of Absalom.  David is saying (figuratively) may they, whether raw (alive) or ablaze (fully cooked), be swept away.  Need anyone say more?  Shabbat shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Fri17-July 20263rd of Av, 5786
De 2:31-3:14Ez 281 Ch 7Col 3 (Lk 23:26-56)

Shalom,

Psalm 58:4 The wicked are strangers from the womb. Speaking lies, they go astray from birth. 5 Their venom is like a serpent’s venom, like a deaf cobra shutting its ear— 6 not hearing the voice of charmers, or a cunning spell binder.

Wow!  David is “hitting it out of the park” here, with his poetic language.  He is not “accusing the brethren,” that is Satan’s job.  David is describing the nature of the wicked.  In Hebrew, the “wicked” are “Rasha” (Resh-Shin-Ayin).  Strong’s describes them as, “morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person -- + condemned, guilty, ungodly, wicked (man), that did wrong.”  David is consistent with that interpretation.

Let’s take a moment to “unpack” some of David’s colorful language.  First, he accuses the wicked of being “strangers from the womb.”  The womb is where families are made.  It is the foundation of family life.  Not so with the wicked.  Real relationships are impossible with wicked people, because they are “me first” kind of people.  Families love one another, and love is best defined as putting the needs of others ahead of your own.

Then David says the wicked “speak lies.”  True again, verified by the words of Yeshua… John 8:44 You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks lies he is just being himself—for he is a liar and the father of lies.  

These wicked people have believed lies, that’s how they became wicked, and perpetuate those same lies by speaking them to others.  Again, hear the words of Yeshua… Luke 6:45 “Out of the good treasure of his heart the good man brings forth good, and out of evil the evil man brings forth evil. For from the overflow of the heart his mouth speaks.”

Finally, in verses 5 and 6, we have the venomous snake analogy.  Venom (which are the words of the wicked) is mentioned twice, which makes it the most venomous venom there is.  And why can’t these wicked hear the beauty of truth?  Because their ears are stopped up.  Moreover; the Hebrew indicates their ears are deaf to wisdom.  But don’t be fooled, there are consequences…

2Thessalonians 2:10 and with every kind of wicked deception toward those who are perishing. They perish because they did not accept the love of the truth so as to be saved. 11 For this reason God sends them a delusional force, to lead them to believe what is false, 12 so that they may be judged—all those who did not believe the truth but delighted in wickedness.  

Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Thu16-July 20262nd of Av, 5786
De 2:2-30Ez 271 Ch 6Col 2 (Lk 23:1-25)

Shalom,

Psalm 58:1 For the music director: “Do Not Destroy,” a Michtam of David. 2 Do you really speak of justice, O “gods”? Do you judge with fairness, sons of man? 3 No, in heart you devise injustice. Your hands weigh out violence on earth.

Overview: As we start our study of Psalm 58, we make several general observations.  This is yet another Psalm “of David” (about half the Psalms are).  Each of David’s Psalms deals with a period of difficulty, stress, and testing in David’s life.  There are a total of 12 Psalms (beginning with Psalm 3 and ending with Psalm 64) that deal with the rebellion of David’s son, Absalom.  Psalm 58 is the 8th one.  What strikes me here, is that even though Absalom sent an army to kill his father (David), David instructed his own army to preserve and even to protect the life of Absalom.  When Absalom died, David grieved, and no-one dared to celebrate.

Notice also the similarity of the last verses of Psalms 58, 64, and 140.

Psalm 58:11 The righteous one will rejoice when he beholds vengeance, when he washes his feet in the blood of the wicked. 12 Then men will say: “There really is a reward for the righteous. There really is a God who judges on earth!”

Psalm 64:11 The righteous will be glad in Adonai and take refuge in Him. Let all the upright in heart give glory!

Psalm 140:14 Surely, the righteous ones will praise Your name. The upright will dwell in Your presence.

Is there any doubt these were all written by the same man, who is called the man after God’s own heart?  End Overview.

David is addressing Absalom’s claim to be a “more impartial” judge than his father, David.  2Samuel 15:4 Moreover, Absalom would say, “If only I were appointed judge in the land, then every man who has any suit or case would come to me, and I would get him justice!” …6 So Absalom kept doing this to everyone of Israel who came to the king for judgment. Thus Absalom stole the hearts of the people of Israel.

The truth about Absalom and his followers is revealed in Psalm 58:3a …No, in heart you devise injustice.

The Hebrew word for “injustice” is “Evel” (Ayin-Vav-Lamed), which may be the derivation on our English word “evil.”  The “Topical Lexicon” says this… “(Evel) designates moral crookedness expressed in acts of injustice, unrighteousness, deceit, or fraud. It contrasts with ‘Tṣedeq,’ righteousness, and ‘Mishpat,’ justice or judgment, underscoring a violation of God-given order within personal, social, and covenantal relationships.”
 
“Lo Ta’asu Evel BaMishpat”  Leviticus 19:15 “You are to do no injustice in judgment.”  The Bible warns us extensively against unequal weights, thus tipping the scales of justice.  Proverbs 20:10 Unequal weights and measures—both are an abomination to Adonai.  In God’s kingdom, everything and everybody is in perfect alignment with God’s will.  And we pray, “Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”  Bo Yeshua Bo, come Yeshua, come.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Wed15-July 20261st of Av, 5786Rosh Chodesh Av
De 1:39-2:1, Nu 28:11-15Ez 261 Ch 5Col 1 (Lk 22:39-71)

Shalom,

Psalm 57:11(10) For Your lovingkindness is great up to the heavens, and Your truth to the skies. 12(11) Be exalted, O God, above the heavens. Let Your glory be over all the earth!

Today, we finish Psalm 57 with a flourish of praise for God, “Your lovingkindness” (Chas’d’cha), “Your truth” (Ami’te’cha), “Be exalted” (Rumah), “Your glory” (K’vod’e’cha).  That’s some high praise, and look where it is being offered: “to the heavens” (Sha’ma’yim), to the skies (Sh’chaq’im), “Above the heavens” (Al-Sha’ma’yim), “Over the entire earth” (Kol-Ha’A’retz).  I’d say that pretty much covers every possibility.

This idea of proactively carrying the message of God to the world is not new to David… Psalm 18:50 Therefore I praise You among the nations, Adonai, and sing praises to Your Name. 51 Great victories He gives to His king. He shows loyal love to His anointed—to David and his seed, forever.  This is a message that defines David’s life (and our own) in Messiah Yeshua for eternity (in both space and time).  Paul’s prayer is for us today….

Ephesians 3:16 I pray that from His glorious riches He would grant you to be strengthened in your inner being with power through His Ruach, 17 so that Messiah may dwell in your hearts through faith. I pray that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to grasp with all the kedoshim what is the width and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Messiah which surpasses knowledge, so you may be filled up with all the fullness of God.

In Yeshua’s name, amen!  Now, let’s close with this.  It is a life verse for me. (You can receive it as a life verse for you too.)  We also used it not long ago to close the RR for June 26th.  Ephesians 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do far beyond all that we ask or imagine, by means of His power that works in us, 21 to Him be the glory in the community of believers and in Messiah Yeshua throughout all generations forever and ever! Amen.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Tue14-July 202629th of Tamuz, 5786
De 1:22-1:38Ez 24-251 Ch 4Php 4 (Lk 22:1-38)

Shalom,

Psalm 57:9 Awake, my glory! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn. 10 I will praise You, my Lord, among the peoples. I will sing praises to You among the nations.

Rabbi Trail:  Last Friday, the last time I wrote an RR, I shared an Hebrew song performed by Sheli Myers with this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGImjZQaSqU  Many of you already clicked and listened.  The Hebrew is taken from Psalm 57, verses 8, 10 and 12.  Here is the translation….

Psalm 57:8 My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast. I will sing, yes, I will make music…. 10 I will praise You, my Lord, among the peoples. I will sing praises to You among the nations…. 12 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens. Let Your glory be over all the earth! 

End RT.

King David is writing prophetically about a ministry, as if it is his own, while it will really belong to David’s Son, Yeshua.  In Psalm 57, verse 10, David writes of a global ministry in several different, and (what turns out to be) all encompassing ways.  Psalm 57:10 I will praise You, my Lord, among the peoples. I will sing praises to You among the nations.  

The words that caught my attention are “Ba’Amim” (spelled “Bet-Ayin-Mem-Yud-Mem”) meaning “in (or among) people.”  The second word is hyphenated “Bal-Umim” (spelled Bet-Lamed-Aleph-Mem-Yud-Mem) meaning from within and to nations.  David is prophesying what he, himself, never did.  Therefore; it has to be the Greater David, David’s Son Yeshua, Who will Psalm 57:10… “praise You, my Lord, among the peoples. I will sing praises to You among the nations.”

Rabbi’s Note: In biblical terms, the “nations” are those people who live outside of the commonwealth of the Hebrew people.

Turns out that because we belong to Yeshua, His ministry is our ministry.  Isaiah 43:19 Here I am, doing a new thing; Now it is springing up—do you not know about it?…21 the people I formed for Myself, so they might declare My praise.

Hebrews 13:15 Through Yeshua then, let us continually offer up to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips giving thanks to His name.

This is our delight, and you have to know it delights Him too.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Mon13-July 202628th of Tamuz, 5786
De 1:11-21Ez 231 Ch 3Php 3 (Lk 21)

Shavuah Tov,

The other day a few of us were praying and concern was expressed about the world our children and their children would inherit. We know of people who are so filled with anxiety and pessimism that they have decided to not have children. This is nothing new. We knew highly educated and remarkably talented people who made the same decision decades ago.  I empathize with those who are anxious about the future. So much looks bleak. Forget about the future, the present looks very dark. I agree, the future appears to be ominous.

So, what was my response to these concerns?  I immediately had a word of comfort.  … where sin increased, grace overflowed even more—(Romans 5:20b) The most important thing in life is not that we, or our children, or grandchildren, would be comfortable. The most important thing is that we would know Yeshua and, abiding in His love, overcome the world.

Someone might remonstrate, “But there are more temptations than ever before! The influence of the satan upon our culture is so very powerful. How can they possibly overcome?”

I might reply as mentioned before: … where sin increased, grace overflowed even more—(Romans 5:20b). And then, knowing me, I might
follow up with this: Now we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)

In addition, I might add the following: What then shall we say in view of
these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He
who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how shall He not also with Him freely give us all things? (Romans 8:31–32)

Dare I believe that our Father will guide, protect, defend, and provide for
those who are growing up in what is currently a depraved social environment?  Dare I not believe that? It is right that I trust Him for “all things.” He is the God of every nuance of favor. He is the God of all grace. After you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace—who has called you into His eternal glory in Messiah—will Himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you. (1Peter 5:10)

Since I’m meditating on Romans 8, let me add another reason for my confidence in God’s active favor.  Who shall separate us from the love of Messiah? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, “For Your sake we are being put to death all day long; we are counted as sheep for the slaughter.” But in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Messiah Yeshua our Lord. (Romans 8:35–39)

A friend may say, “But David, you’re quoting Scriptures that speak of suffering and even martyrdom! Please stop.” I appreciate that candor but allow me to push back and reference what Yeshua said. “Shalom I leave you, My shalom I give to you; but not as the world gives! Do not let your heart be troubled or afraid. (John 14:27)

Take heart. In fact, “do not let your heart be troubled” about the wellbeing of
those growing up at this time. There will always be enough enabling favor to see us through. There is no circumstance that can arise which other believers have not experienced. There is no satanic fury that cannot be withstood.  But in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. (Romans 8:37)

Favor and shalom to you, in the name of Yeshua.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sun12-July 202627th of Tamuz, 5786 
De 1:1-10 Ez 221 Ch 2Php 2 (Lk 20)

Shabbat Shalom,

This week is a double portion. Mattot, “tribes,” from Numbers 30:1 Moses spoke to the princes of the tribes (hammattot) of Bnei-Yisrael…Massei, “journeys,” from Numbers 33:1 These are the journeys (massei) of Bnei-Yisrael when they came out of Egypt…

In Mattot, vows must be kept, Israel eliminates the Midianites, spoils are divided, commanders provide additional tribute recognizing that no Israelite men were lost in the battles, two and a half tribes opt to settle on the east side of the Jordan. In Massei, Moses recounts the Israelite’s wilderness travels, commands a complete driving out the current inhabitants of the Land, cities of refuge are commanded, 48 cities are set aside for the Levites, and the final report on the daughters of Zelophehad is given.

There are more than a few lessons in these two portions. But let’s build on vows.

Numbers 30:2 Whenever a man makes a vow to ADONAI or swears an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he is not to violate his word but do everything coming out of his mouth.

Yeshua warns about taking vows.

Matthew 5:37 Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil. 

Yet women can be given annulments from vows they have taken if their husband or father objects. 
Concerning a young woman - Verse 5 If her father should forbid it on the day of his hearing it none of her vows or pledges by which she has obligated herself will stand. ADONAI will forgive her because her father has forbidden her. 
Concerning a wife – Verse 12 If her husband should nullify them in the day that he hears of them, nothing from her lips, whether vow or pledge will stand. Her husband has nullified them and ADONAI will forgive her. 

Why would the LORD include instructions that allow women’s vows to be voided? Why would the LORD limit women’s responsibility when taking vows? Love and protection. The LORD intended men to love their families just as the LORD loves us. 

Isaiah 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely, I will help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

God loves us, so he keeps us from fear by giving us strength and help. We are not to be dismayed, because he will protect us.

2 Thessalonians 3:3 But the LORD is trustworthy - and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. 

1st Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has taken hold of you except what is common to mankind. But God is faithful; he will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can handle. But with the temptation, he will also provide a way of escape, so you will be able endure it.

The LORD demonstrates his love for us through protecting us. 

Numbers 30 also helps define human roles. The man is the leader in his home. He is responsible for the safety and wellbeing of his family. Some may scoff at this section because it seems to put women subservient to men. Not so. Rather, this is a reminder that God assigned roles to men and women, married people and unmarried people, fathers, mothers, and children. In Numbers 30 we get a clear role assignment for men and for certain independent women when it comes to taking vows. 

This is not meant to demean or reduce the value of women. It does not make men superior to women. Rather this reminds men that they are responsible for their wife and for her safety and welfare. It sets up a chain of command - God, Yeshua, men, women. 

With over three decades of military service, I can assure everyone that a chain of command is not a bad thing. It allows for a clear understanding of responsibility, leadership, and authority. Note authority is last. I assure you it was with intent. Authority may be part of leadership, but it is not the most important part. If one is a truly responsible leader, authority is seldom necessary and rarely used.

1st Peter 3:7 …husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way. Though they are the weaker partners, honor them as equal heirs of the grace of life.

Men are reminded that they are responsible for taking care of their wives in an understanding and honorable way. Our wives are equal heirs to the grace of life given through Messiah Yeshua.  

Genesis 2:24 This is why a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife; and they become one flesh.

God’s plan is that men and women become complete when they are joined together! To grow up and fully develop his manhood, a man must leave his dependence upon his parents and bond with his wife. Together complete each other and are then able to develop into fully functioning adults. 

The restrictions for women’s vows in Numbers 30 remind us of the God ordained relationship between husbands and wives.

Shabbat Shalom

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sat11-July 202626th of Tamuz, 5786 Parashat Matot-Masei
Nu 35:9-36:13Jer 2:4-28; 3:4Jas 4:1-12

(Early) Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi’s Announcement: You may be aware that I write these RRs for the next day, so as I write this it is Thursday morning, July 9th.  I’m celebrating today because it is the anniversary (I’m not saying which one) of my beloved wife, Jan’s, birthday.  Here is her email address if you would like to send over a birthday wish.  Go ahead and blow up her inbox. janmw748@gmail.com. End RA

Psalm 57:7(6) They spread a net for my steps, my soul is bowed down. They have dug a pit before me—they fell into it themselves. Selah 8(7) My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast. I will sing, yes, I will make music.

“My enemies may be crafty, but they themselves are going to be trapped by the trap they set for me.”  That’s the meaning of verse 7, which ends with “Selah.”  Let’s pause here and savor that thought.  It is not exactly an original thought.  Check these verses out, both by the same author.

Psalm 35:8 Let ruin come upon him by surprise. Let the net he hid entangle himself—into that same pit let him fall.

Psalm 141:10 Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by safely.
 
Rabbi Trail: Now, on to verse 8, but first a note… the Hebrew of verses 8, 10, and 12 (7, 9 and 11 in most Christian Bibles) has been set to this song, here preformed by Sheli Myers at King of Kings in Jerusalem.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGImjZQaSqU Enjoy!!!  End RT.

Beginning with verse 8, there is a change of heart.  The focus has moved from “what my enemies may do to me” to “let’s wake up, and enjoy (even rejoice) in the blessings of God’s provision.”  Verse 8, in Hebrew, begins with a declaration, “Nachon!”  This is a strong word meaning “correct.”  It is derived from the word “Kun” meaning to stand erect, thus, to be “firmly established,” with a great number of applications, both literally (established, fixed, or even prepared) and figuratively (put in proper or correct order).

And, what is so affected in a “Nachon” manner?  That’s right, “my heart.”  In Hebrew, similar to English, the “heart” is more than the name of the beating organ inside your chest.  The heart is the center of our intellect, our mind, and our very being.  It can also indicate the center of anything (ie. the heart of the matter).  

And what will be your reasonable response when your heart is set in right order with God, the Creator of the universe?  You’re right again, we will sing and make music (using instruments).  Is that consistent with other scriptures?

Ephesians 5:18b …be filled with the Ruach, 19 speaking to one  another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music in your heart to the Lord— 20 always giving thanks for everything to God the Father, in the name of the Lord Yeshua the Messiah.

This celebration with God in the here and now sets us up for our celebration with God for all eternity.

Revelation 5:9 And they are singing a new song, saying, “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals. For You were slain, and by Your blood You redeemed for God those from every tribe and tongue and people and nation.

What a great way to end the week.  Yes, an early Shabbat shalom to you all.  Shalom shalom and happy birthday to my beloved wife.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Fri10-July 202625th of Tamuz, 5786
Nu 34:16-35:8Ez 211 Ch 1Php 1 (Lk 19)

Shalom,

Psalm 57:5 My soul is in the midst of lions. I lie among those breathing fire—sons of men whose teeth are spears and arrows, whose tongue is a sharp sword. 6 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens. Let Your glory be over all the earth!

The psalmist, who is also a poet, (using just a few words to paint a “word picture” that would take a novelist an entire book to explain) is taking us through the spectrum of civilization.  He starts with this phrase, “My soul is in the midst of lions.”  

Rabbi Trail:  I believe the period here, in the English translation, is misplaced.  There is nothing to suggest “among” in the Hebrew, but it is necessary to infer it if you put the period after lions.  The Hebrew is punctuated as “My soul lies in the midst of lions.”  End RT.

This was our beginning, as cave dwellers, we lived among wild lions.  We were in constant danger then.  The psalmist now makes a contrast.  Now that we live among people, nothing has changed.  We are still in constant danger.  In fact, there is some lament in his words.  He seems to be longing for “the good old day” when he only had to protect himself against the ravages of lions.  People (the sons of men) have both sharp teeth AND sharp tongues.  

It is the sons of men who “breathe fire.”  The Hebrew word is “Lahat” from which we may have our English word, “hot.”  According to Strong’s, the meaning is, “to blaze -- burn (up), set on fire, flaming, (and to) kindle.”

Jacob 3:6  And the tongue is a fire. The tongue is a world of evil placed among our body parts. It pollutes the whole body and sets on fire the course of life—and is set on fire by Gehenna.

Yet, when all is said and done, just like in the beginning when we lived among lions, we look to God for salvation.  Only He is supreme and over all.  Psalm 57:6 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens. Let Your glory be over all the earth!  Only God will be victorious over every enemy, both beasts and man.  By sending His Son to restore the earth to Himself, God has rescued us all from both beasts and each other.

Isaiah 11:1a  Then a shoot will come forth out of the stem of Jesse,… 2 The Ruach of Adonai will rest upon Him, the Spirit of wisdom and insight, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of Adonai…. 4b He will strike the land with the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips He will slay the wicked…. 6 The wolf will dwell with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the kid, the calf and the young lion and the yearling together, and a little child will lead them.

Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Thu9-July 202624th of Tamuz, 5786
Nu 33:50-34:15Ez 20Neh 13Eph 6 (Lk 18)

Shalom,

Psalm 57:3 I will cry out to El Elyon, to God who accomplishes it for me. 4 He will send from heaven and save me. He rebukes the one trampling on me. Selah God is sending His mercy and His truth.

In verse 3, the TLV ends with the phrase, “… to God who(sic) accomplishes it for me.”  The Hebrew words are, “L’El Gomair Ay’lai,” translates as “…to God Who ‘Gomair’s me.”  There are two better options (better than “accomplishes”) to translate “Gomair.”  One could say, “God ‘completes’ me, or “God ‘perfects’ me,” either one works better than “accomplishes.”  

Now consider what this marvelous God, who hears me when I call out to Him, does.  Yes, this One True and Living God, Who completes and perfects His work both in and through me, “sends from heaven.”  The Hebrew never says what God “sends,” just that He sends, from heaven, and it doesn’t matter.  God is so powerful, He can send something, anything, or nothing, and by His supreme power He alone is victorious over every enemy.  “Selah,” meaning, “that was profound, so take a moment and consider what was just said.”

And there it is, in the last phrase of verse 4.  What is God sending?  Now we know, His mercy (Chesed) and His truth (Emet).

Psalm 85:10 Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.  
 
Let’s close today with this.  It is from Deuteronomy.  Deuteronomy is a repetition of three books of the Torah, Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers.  Chapter 32 of Deuteronomy is Moses’ summary of the summary.  It is His last words charge to the Hebrew people.  

Deuteronomy 32:4 He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.

Who is the “Rock,” Whose work is perfect?  Psalm 18:2 The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.  And yes, His work is perfect.  John 1:3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.  Again, we have to close with, “Ayn Od.”  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Wed8-July 202623rd of Tamuz, 5786
Nu 32:20-33:49Ez 18-19Neh 12Eph 5 (Lk 17)

Shalom,

Psalm 57:1(1) For the music director, “Do Not Destroy,” a Michtam of David, when he fled from Saul, in the cave. 2 Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me, for in You my soul takes refuge. In the shadow of Your wings I take refuge, until destruction passes by.

Rabbi’s note: What you see above (Psalm 57, verses 1 and 2), in the Hebrew Bible is combined into just one verse (verse 1) in most Christian Bibles.  This will cause all the rest of the numbering to be off through the rest of the Psalm.

This is the first of four Psalms labeled “Al Tash’chet,” meaning literally, “do not destroy.”  They are this Psalm, 57, and three more Psalms 58, 59, and 79.  The first 3 (in a row, 57, 58, and 59) are Davidic, while the last (79) is Asaphic.  Sound scholarship believes this label, “do not destroy” is actually the first words or theme of a popular (at that time, well known) melody used to sing these four Psalms.  So it is really a musical notation, rather than the obvious warning not to destroy the Psalm.  End RN.

Our TLV translation says in verse 1, “Be gracious to me,” which is immediately repeated, “Be gracious to me!”  In Hebrew it is just one word, “Cha’ne’ni” repeated (pronounced, “Cha-nay-ni,” with the accent on the second syllable).  Another possible translation is, “Pour out bowels of mercy to me, oh God, pour out bowels of mercy to me!”  This is followed by the repetition of the second concept, “I take refuge (in God, my soul takes refuge).

These dual repetitions are provided to elicit an emotional response from the reader.  “Have mercy on me, for in You I take refuge.”  Wouldn’t you desire such a relationship with the Almighty God?  Brings to mind Psalm 91… We pray to God (for protection) and He answers us with deliverance according to His power.

Psalm 91:2 I will say of Adonai, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust…. 9 For you have made Elyon your dwelling, even Adonai, who is my refuge,… 14 “Because he has devoted his love to Me, I will deliver him. I will set him securely on high, because he knows My Name. 15 When he calls on Me, I will answer him. I will be with him in trouble, rescue him, and honor him. 16 With long life will I satisfy him and show him My salvation.”

Add to that, it is the structure of Hebrew to repeat a word to reflect superlatives.  In English we add “er” or “est” to a word.  We have some similar conventions in Hebrew, but we can also just repeat a word for emphasis.  God provides us with the greatest mercy (that we don’t deserve) along with the highest level of protection (as our refuge).  In Hebrew we say, “Ayn Od” meaning “there is nothing more.”  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Tue7-July 202622nd of Tamuz, 5786
Nu 32:1-19Ez 17Neh 11Eph 4 (Lk 16)

Rabbi’s Reflections - Friday, July 3, 2026 
(Early) Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Trail: Welcome to the club!  That was my greeting offered by many Israelis when I was introduced to them as an “Oleh Chadash” (a new immigrant).  To be an Israeli is to be part of the “Chosen People” whose very existence is opposed by much of the rest of the world.  To be a lover of those same “Chosen People” makes you guilty by association.

When times get tough, (and I believe the Scriptures clearly make the case that times will get tougher) will you continue to stand with the Jewish people?  Many Christians who lived in Europe during the Holocaust were just glad they didn’t have to wear a yellow star.  Many have said that they didn’t know what was happening, but they knew.  Even children knew.  What if those times come back.  (Personally, I believe we’re not that far from it.)  Would you say, “Give me a star too, we’re all Jews here!?”  

So I want to say to you, as a true lover of Israel and the Jewish people, “Welcome to the club.”  The yellow star is your membership pin.  Better get ready.  End RT. 
________
Psalms
Psalm 56:11,12(10,11) – Part 8

Psalm 56:11(10) In God—I keep praising His word—in Adonai—I keep praising His word— 12(11) in God I trust, I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

There’s a question, “What can man do to me?”  Let me tell you, “A lot!!!”  Have you looked around lately?  Yeshua admonished His disciples… Matthew 10:16  “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. 17a  But beware of men.  Does our faith guarantee an exemption from pain and suffering?  Certainly not!  Listen to Paul’s testimony, and who had more faith than him?  

2Corinthians 11:23 Are they servants of Messiah? I am more so—I speak like I’m out of my mind—in labors much more, in prisons much more, in beatings more brutal, near death often. 24 Five times from the Jewish leaders I received forty lashes minus one. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I suffered shipwreck. A night and a day I spent in the open sea. 26 In my many journeys I have been in dangers from rivers, dangers from robbers, dangers from my countrymen, dangers from the Gentiles, dangers in the city, dangers in the desert, dangers in the sea, dangers among false brothers, 27 in labor and hardship, through many sleepless nights, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure.

Paul knew, and so should we, that God’s promise is that He will BE WITH US through the fire of various trials.  Ask Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego if they were exempt from the fire?  Daniel 3:25 But he (King Nebuchadnezzar) answered saying, “Look! I see four men walking about unbound and unharmed in the middle of the fire, and the fourth has the appearance like a son of the gods!”  Yeshua was dancing in the fire WITH the three men who were willing to die, rather than worship a man.

The phrase, “I keep praising His word,” appears twice in our subject verse.  Peter helps us put these things in perspective.  Let’s give him the last word today.  1Peter 1:6 You rejoice in this greatly, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials. 7 These trials are so that the true metal of your faith (far more valuable than gold, which perishes though refined by fire) may come to light in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Messiah Yeshua.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Fri3-July 202618th of Tamuz, 5786
Nu 28:16-29:11 Ez 12-13Neh 8Eph 1 (Lk 13)

Shalom,

Rabbi Trail: Let’s take a moment to assess where we are in the fulfillment of Ezekiel’s “Dry Bones” prophecy found in Ezekiel 37.  I feel like the State of Israel is connected.  It starts with the “valley of dry bones.”  That certainly describes the “Jewish landscape” at the end of The Holocaust.  Then Ezekiel is told to prophesy over the valley of those many, very dry bones.

Ezekiel 37:4  “Prophesy over these bones,” He said to me. “Say to them: ‘Dry bones, hear the word of Adonai!’ 5 Thus says Adonai Elohim to these bones: “Behold, I will cause Ruach to enter you, so you will live.”  

Two things here… the “Ruach” is Hebrew for breath, wind, and spirit.  There is life (into which we are all born) and there is “born again” life for those who are filled with the Spirit after believing in Yeshua.
Acts 2:38 Peter said to them, “Repent, and let each of you be immersed in the name of Messiah Yeshua for the removal of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Ruach ha-Kodesh.

Secondly, the prophecy of Ezekiel goes on to explain a process, first tendons, then flesh, followed by skin and finally breath.  That last part, the breath of faith, the saving power of the Spirit is the substance of our prayer.   That’s how Paul starts Romans chapters 9, 10, and 11.

Romans 9:3 For I would pray that I myself were cursed, banished from Messiah for the sake of my people—my own flesh and blood, 4a who are Israelites. 

Romans 10:1 Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and my prayer to God for Israel is for their salvation.

Romans 11:2a God has not rejected His people whom He knew beforehand.

Please join the chorus of those who are pleading with God for the salvation of all Israel, when God will complete Ezekiel’s prophecy and fully answer Ezekiel (and all the other prophets too).

Ezekiel 36:26 Moreover I will give you a new heart. I will put a new spirit within you. I will remove the stony heart from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 27a I will put My Ruach within you.  

End RT.
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Psalms
Psalm 56:13(12). 14(13) – Part 9

Psalm 56:13(12)  I am under vows to You, O God. I will present thank offerings to You. 14(13)  For You have delivered my soul from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life.

These last two verses of Psalm 56 seem to fit well together.  Interestingly, verse 12 is full of thanksgiving, which precedes verse 13 which is full of deliverance.  Apparently, we should be thanking God first, before He even does anything.  Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Yeshua, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

Our thanks (grateful hearts) to Yeshua IS the reward of His suffering.  1Peter 3:18 For Messiah once suffered for sins also—the righteous for the unrighteous—in order to bring you to God. He was put to death in the flesh, but made alive by the Ruach.

In Psalm 56:14, the deliverance into the “light of life” stands in contrast to the darkness implied by the death of the soul.  

1Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the praises of the One who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

Darkness is the result of being absent from God’s presence.  Light (marvelous light) is the result of being IN His presence.  Well, if we weren’t excited before, we are now, and not just excited, but thankful too.  Shalom shalom.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Mon6-July 202621st of Tamuz, 5786
Nu 31:13-54Ez 16Neh 10Eph 3 (Lk 15)

Shavuah Tov,

The books Ruth and Esther, provide examples of the hidden hand of Adonai as He moves through circumstances. Neither record miracles, or report prophetic oracles, or provide examples of spiritual worship. Both reveal God’s nature as He works behind the scenes.

The coincidences in these books are signs. In themselves they are not miraculous wonders. They are “it just so happened at the right time and the right place that this apparently perfectly natural thing took place that changed the course of a woman, or a nation’s destiny.” These coinciding events point to the God who is working.

This is going to ultimately happen.

Now we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)

Right now, the way things are working together are harbingers of this ultimate outcome.

We can see evidence of God moving beneath the surface of what appears to be reality. These coincidences are evidences of the providence of our compassionate God.

Consider Ruth and Naomi’s story. Ruth the Moabitess had turned away from worshiping  Chemosh, “the Destroyer”. Abominable Canaanite practices were part of the religious rituals which helped form Ruth’s childhood. But Ruth just so happened to marry a Judean from Bethlehem.

After years of marriage, she was childless. Her father-in-law died. Her brother-in-law died. Her husband died. Her mother-in-law, bereft of husband and sons, and without grandchildren despite years of her sons being married, was broken and embittered. However, Ruth had faith in Israel’s God and, although it seemed like they were under heaven’s curse, nothing got in her way of covenant loyalty to Naomi and her husband’s family’s God.

Ruth accompanied Naomi, who returned to Bethlehem. They were impoverished. Encouraged to glean in nearby fields to bring in some sustenance, Ruth just so happened to pick a field owned by a close relative, Boaz. It just so happened that Boaz was in line to marry her, and it just so happened that he wanted to do so.

God worked in the midst of the worst circumstances to rescue Naomi and Ruth from poverty and provide a husband for Ruth. Boaz and Ruth just so happened to be the grandparents of Jesse, King David’s father, and distant ancestors of Yeshua.

We know that this was the hand of God, but there was no word from the Lord throughout the book. No miracle. No theophany. But there were signs that He was working. Things just so happened to fall into place.

Esther’s experience was similar.  

It just so happened that Queen Vashti rebelled and was deposed. It just so happened that Esther was chosen to replace her.

Esther was queen of an exorbitantly wealthy, powerful empire. But her life was in danger. As a Jewess she was subject to an edict that stated that on a certain date, every Jew was to be slaughtered.

Meanwhile, her cousin Mordecai just so happened to be in the right place at the right time to notify the emperor of a plot to assassinate him. Then, it just so happened that one night the emperor happened upon the record of that intervention. And it just so happened that Mordecai’s enemy, the conniving genocidal Amalekite, Haman, was forced to proclaim the emperor’s favor over Mordecai. It just so happened that the stake upon which Haman planned to impale Mordecai was actually a preparation for the Agagite’s demise.

No miracles are mentioned. No oracles. No prophets. No signs and wonders. However, there were a series of coincidences that revealed the hand of God working, tweaking circumstances and relationships that just so happened to be the means of delivering every Jew subject to this empire.

Perhaps you can trace the providential favor in your life, too. As with Naomi and Ruth’s experience, it may have looked as if you were under a curse, but circumstances just so happened to fall into place. Perhaps you still feel like life is stacked against you. Hold on, it just so happens that God’s still at work. He hasn’t changed. Circumstances that seem like obstacles may just so happen to be the keys Adonai is using to deliver you and bring you into your destiny.

Maybe you’re like the average Jewish citizen of the Persian empire and it looks like you’re in a helplessly vulnerable situation. It just so happens that there is a Mordecai and an Esther who are positioned to make a way of escape. Hope in God.

If you look carefully, in faith, you may discern the activity of God behind the scenes. It may not be dramatic, but God’s favorable providence is already silently securing your deliverance.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sun5-July 202620th of Tamuz, 5786
Nu 30:1[2]-31:12Ez 14-15Neh 9Eph 2 (Lk 14)

Shabbat Shalom {{firstName}},

Torah Portion Pinchas Numbers 25:10-30:1(29:40)
By Jeffery Freeman

This week’s Torah portion is Pinchas. Its name comes from Aaron’s grandson Pinchas, Phinehas in most English translations, who in last week’s Torah reading ended a devastating plague. 

This week’s reading concludes the account of Phinehas and the reward he receives. We get the second census which will be used to divvy up the Land. Included is the account of the daughters of Zelophehad which results in women receiving certain land ownership rights when their father dies without a male heir. Joshua is chosen to succeed Moses as the leader of the people. And a restatement of the Levitical calendar.

Moses asks ADONAI to appoint another to lead the Israelites after he dies. The LORD responds in Numbers 27:18 Take Joshua son of Nun…lay your hands on him…Give to him some of your authority so that the whole community of Bnei-Yisrael will obey him.

According to the census just completed, there are 601,730 men, not including the Levites, who are over the age of 20. So how is it that Joshua gets picked? 

Joshua trusted the LORD. After spying out the Land and the ten other spies gave their bad report, Joshua says in Numbers 14:9 Don’t rebel against ADONAI, and don’t be afraid of the people of the land…ADONAI is with us! Do not fear them!

Joshua learned Torah. Exodus 24:12-13 Adonai said to Moses, “Come up to the mountain…and I will give you the tablets of stone with the Torah and mitzvot, which I have written so that you may instruct them.” So Moses rose up along with his attendant Joshua, and Moses went up onto the mountain of God.

Joshua listened to the LORD. Exodus 33:8-11 Whenever Moses went out to the Tent, all the people would rise and stand…and look after Moses until he had gone into the Tent. After Moses entered, the pillar of cloud descended, stood at the door, and He would speak with Moses…So ADONAI spoke with Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend. Then he would return to the camp, but his servant Joshua…did not leave the Tent.

Joshua was a strong military leader. Exodus 17:9, 13 Moses said to Joshua, choose men, go out, and fight the Amalekites…so Joshua overpowered the Amalekites and his army with the edge of the sword.

So, how can we emulate Joshua?

Trust. Romans 8:28, 31 We know that all things work together for goof for those who love God, and who are called according to his purpose…If God is for us, who can be against us?

Learn. Proverbs 1:7 The fear of ADONAI is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives without hesitation…

Listen. Isaiah 30:20-21 Though ADONAI gives you the bread of adversity and the water of oppression, your teachers will no longer be hidden, but your eyes will see your teachers. Your ears will hear a word behind you saying: “This is the way, walk in it…” Jeremiah 33:2-3 Thus says ADONAI…Call unto me, and I will answer you…”

Lead. 1Peter 5:1-3 Therefore I appeal to the elders…shepherd God’s flock among you. Watch over it not under compulsion but willingly before God, not for dishonest gain…don’t lord it over those apportioned to you but become examples to the flock.

James 4:8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. 

Shabbat Shalom!

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Sat4-July 202619th of Tamuz, 5786 Parashat Pinchas
Nu 29:12-40 [30:1]Jer 1:1-2:31 Co 6:9-20

Shalom {{firstName}}, 

Rabbi Trail: Pro-Israel Americans are not “monsters!”  700 rabbis, including yours truly, from a spectrum of expressions of Jewish faith, including Messianic Judaism, have endorsed a letter expressing their opposition to anti-Semitism.  (Nothing unites people more than a common opponent.) https://jewishmajority.org/open-letter-from-rabbis You can add your name to this open letter by using the link provided.

In a political speech last week, New York Mayor Mamdani called AIPAC (America Israel Public Affairs Committee, an organization that lobbies both sides of the isle for Israel.) and its supporters, “monsters.”  In his anti-Semitic rant, he used familiar anti-Semitic tropes.  For instance, mayor Mamdani accused AIPAC of moving “millions in dark money” to “preserve their power” and “turn us against one another.”  If you’re not familiar with these kinds of lies (anti-Semitic tropes), please click here… https://gnasherjew.com/the-protocols-of-the-elders-of-zion-and-kalergi-plan-the-jewish-plan-for-global-domination-conspiracies/ 

Mr. Mayor, who is “us?” (Which also makes me ask, “Who is them?”)  I thought you were elected to represent all the people of New York City.  Jewish people are a significant minority of your New York constituency.  You should also be aware that 80% of Jewish people support having Israel as a Jewish state.  

People of God, may we unite over this commitment, when we hear anti-Jewish talk, we won’t sit quietly and squirm.  Let’s commit to say something such as, “Stop, I don’t agree with that.”

There’s probably more tomorrow, but that’s all for today.  End RT.
_________

Psalms
Psalm 56:10(9) – Part 7

Psalm 56:10(9) Then my enemies will turn back in the day I call. This I know—that God is for me.

Let’s focus on three Hebrew phrases in this verse.  The first is “my enemies” which is Oy’vai.  In Yiddish, we know it as the familiar expression of exasperation, “Oy-vey.”  The derivation is that “my enemies must have brought this calamity upon me.”  Here, King David uses it as a victory call.  He is saying, “My enemies will change direction when I call out (to God).  

And that’s the second Hebrew phrase today, “B’Yom Ek’rah,” meaning “on the day in which I call.”  This is not new… Psalm 18:4(3) I called upon Adonai, worthy of praise, and I was rescued from my enemies.  The same thought is also found near the end of the book of Psalms.  Psalm 145:18 Adonai is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.

The finally, we have “Elohim Li,” meaning, “God is mine.”  Here it is translated as “God is for me.”  Could we ask for a better advocate?  1John 2:1 My children, I am writing these things to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an Intercessor with the Father—the righteous Messiah Yeshua.  We should all feel secure with Yeshua seated with us (really, we are seated with Him) standing up in our defense before the accuser.  Satan is the accuser of the brethren.
 
Rev 12:10  Then I heard a loud voice in heaven saying, “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Anointed One, for the accuser of our brothers and sisters—the one who accuses them before our God day and night—has been thrown out.

Finally let’s finish with this encouraging word for today… Romans 8:31  What then shall we say in view of these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?  Shalom shalom.

______

Rabbi Trail:  You might notice below that today is labeled “Tzom Tamuz” or the “Fast of Tamuz.”  This is always on the 17th of Tamuz, exactly 3 weeks before Tisha B’Av, the fast of the 9th of Av.  These fasts are held to memorialize the destruction of the Temple.  On the 17th of Tamuz, the walls of Jerusalem were breached.  Three weeks later, the Temple was destroyed.  End RT.

Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Thu2-July 202617th of Tamuz, 5786 Tzom Tamuz
Nu 28:1-15Ez 10-11Neh 7Gal 6 (Lk 12:35-59)
Ex 32:11-14; 34:1-10; Isa 55:6-56:8 (afternoon)