4/30/2006

Day 2 Month 8 Weekday 1


Printed from Chabad.org
Lessons for Sunday,April 30, 2006 - Iyar 2, 5766
Psalms for Day 2
Chapter 10
This psalm tells of the wicked one’s prosperity and his boasting of it, until he says: “There is neither law nor judge. God pays no attention to the actions of mere mortals.”
1. Why, O Lord, do You stand afar, do You hide Yourself in times of distress? 2. The wicked man in his arrogance pursues the poor; they are caught by the schemes they have contrived. 3. For the wicked man glories in the desire of his heart, and the robber boasts that he has scorned the Lord. 4. The wicked one in his insolence [thinks], “He does not avenge”; all his thoughts are, “There is no God.” 5. His ways always succeed; Your retribution is far removed from before him; he puffs at all his foes. 6. He says in his heart, “I shall not falter; for all generations no evil will befall me.” 7. His mouth is full of oaths, deceit and malice; mischief and iniquity are under his tongue. 8. He sits in ambush near open cities; in hidden places he murders the innocent; his eyes stealthily watch for the helpless. 9. He lurks in hiding like a lion in his lair; he lurks to seize the poor, then seizes the poor when he draws his net. 10. He crouches and stoops, then the helpless fall prey to his might. 11. He says in his heart, “God has forgotten, He conceals His countenance, He will never see.” 12. Arise, O Lord! O God, lift Your hand! Do not forget the lowly. 13. Why does the wicked man scorn God? Because he says in his heart, “You do not avenge.” 14. Indeed, You do see! For You behold the mischief and vexation. To recompense is in Your power; the helpless place their trust in You; You have [always] helped the orphan. 15. Break the strength of the wicked; then search for the wickedness of the evil one and You will not find it. 16. The Lord reigns for all eternity; the nations have vanished from His land. 17. Lord, You have heard the desire of the humble; direct their hearts, let Your ear listen, 18. to bring justice to the orphan and the downtrodden, so that [the wicked] shall no longer crush the frail of the earth.
Chapter 11
This psalm declares that the suffering of the righteous one is for his own benefit, to cleanse him of his sins; whereas the wicked one is granted prosperity in this world-similar to the verse, "Wealth remains with its owner, to his detriment."
1. For the Conductor, by David. I have placed my trust in the Lord; [thus] how can you say of my soul, your mountain,
1 that it flees like a bird?2 2. For behold, the wicked bend the bow, they have readied their arrow upon the bowstring, to shoot in darkness at the upright of heart. 3. They destroyed the foundations; 3 what [wrong] has the righteous man done? 4. The Lord is in His holy Sanctuary, the Lord's throne is in heaven, [yet] His eyes behold, His pupils probe [the deeds of] mankind. 5. The Lord tests the righteous, but He hates the wicked and the lover of violence. 6. He will rain down upon the wicked fiery coals and brimstone; a scorching wind will be their allotted portion. 7. For the Lord is righteous, He loves [the man of] righteous deeds; the upright will behold His countenance.
FOOTNOTES
1.
Your king (Metzudot).
2.
And will eventually be captured by Saul (Metzudot).
3.
Reffering to the murder of the priests in the city of Nob.
Chapter 12
This psalm admonishes informers, slanderers, and flatterers.
1. For the Conductor, upon the eight-stringed instrument, a psalm by David. 2. Help us, Lord, for the pious are no more; for the faithful have vanished from among men. 3. Men speak falsehood to one another; with flattering lips, with a duplicitous heart do they speak. 4. May the Lord cut off all flattering lips, the tongue that speaks boastfully- 5. those who have said, "With our tongues we shall prevail, our lips are with us, who is master over us!” 6. Because of the plundering of the poor, because of the moaning of the needy, the Lord says, "Now I will arise!" "I will grant deliverance," He says to him. 7. The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in the finest earthen crucible, purified seven times. 8. May You, O Lord, watch over them; may You forever guard them from this generation, 9. [in which] the wicked walk on every side; when they are exalted it is a disgrace to mankind.
Chapter 13
A prayer for an end to the long exile. One in distress should offer this prayer for his troubles and for the length of the exile.
1. For the Conductor, a psalm by David. 2. How long, O Lord, will You forget me, forever? How long will You hide Your countenance from me? 3. How long must I seek counsel within my soul, [to escape] the grief in my heart all day? How long will my enemy be exalted over me? 4. Look! Answer me, O Lord, my God; give light to my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death. 5. Lest my enemy say, "I have overcome him," [and] my oppressors rejoice when I falter. 6. I have placed my trust in Your kindness, my heart will rejoice in Your deliverance. I will sing to the Lord, for He has dealt kindly with me.
Chapter 14
This psalm speaks of the destruction of the two Holy Temples-the first by Nebuchadnezzar, and the second by Titus.
1. For the Conductor, by David. The fool says in his heart, "There is no God!" [Man's] deeds have become corrupt and abominable, no one does good. 2. The Lord looked down from heaven upon mankind, to see if there was any wise man who searches for God. 3. They have all gone astray together, they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one. 4. Indeed, all the evildoers, who devour My people as they devour bread, who do not call upon the Lord, will [ultimately] come to know [the consequences of their actions]. 5. There they will be seized with fright, for God is with the righteous generation. 6. You scorn the counsel of the lowly, that he puts his trust in the Lord. 7. O that out of Zion would come Israel's deliverance! When the Lord returns the captivity of His people, Jacob will exult, Israel will rejoice.
Chapter 15
This psalm speaks of several virtues and attributes with which one should conduct oneself. He is then assured that his soul will rest in Gan Eden.
1. A psalm by David. Who may abide in Your tent, O Lord? Who may dwell on Your holy Mountain? 2. He who walks blamelessly, acts justly, and speaks truth in his heart; 3. who has no slander on his tongue, who has done his fellowman no evil, and who has brought no disgrace upon his relative; 4. in whose eyes a despicable person is abhorrent, but who honors those who are God-fearing; who does not change his oath even if it is to his own detriment; 5. who does not lend his money at interest, nor accept a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never falter.
Chapter 16
When one is in need, he should not implore God in his own merit, for he must leave his merits for his children.
1. A michtam,
1 by David. Watch over me, O God, for I have put my trust in You. 2. You, [my soul,] have said to God, "You are my Master; You are not obligated to benefit me.” 3. For the sake of the holy ones who lie in the earth, and for the mighty-all my desires are fulfilled in their merit. 4. Those who hasten after other [gods], their sorrows shall increase; I will not offer their libations of blood, nor take their names upon my lips. 5. The Lord is my allotted portion and my share; You guide my destiny. 6. Portions have fallen to me in pleasant places; indeed, a beautiful inheritance is mine. 7. I bless the Lord Who has advised me; even in the nights my intellect admonishes me.2 8. I have set the Lord before me at all times; because He is at my right hand, I shall not falter. 9. Therefore my heart rejoices and my soul exults; my flesh, too, rests secure. 10. For You will not abandon my soul to the grave, You will not allow Your pious one to see purgatory. 11. Make known to me the path of life, that I may be satiated with the joy of Your presence, with the bliss of Your right hand forever.
FOOTNOTES
1.
A psalm that was especially precious to David
2.
To fear and love God (Rashi)
Chapter 17
A loftily person should not ask God to test him with some sinful matter, or other things. If one has sinned, he should see to reform himself, and to save many others from sin.
1. A prayer by David. Hear my sincere [plea], O Lord; listen to my cry; give ear to my prayer, expressed by guileless lips. 2. Let my verdict come forth from before You; let Your eyes behold uprightness. 3. You have probed my heart, examined it in the night, tested me and found nothing; no evil thought crossed my mind; as are my words so are my thoughts. 4. So that [my] human deeds conform with the words of Your lips, I guard myself from the paths of the lawbreakers. 5. Support my steps in Your paths, so that my feet shall not falter. 6. I have called upon You, for You, O Lord, will answer me; incline Your ear to me, hear what I say. 7. Withhold Your kindness-O You who delivers with Your right hand those who put their trust in You-from those who rise up against [You]. 8. Guard me like the apple of the eye; hide me in the shadow of Your wings 9. from the wicked who despoil me, [from] my mortal enemies who surround me. 10. Their fat has closed [their hearts]; their mouths speak arrogantly. 11. They encircle our footsteps; they set their eyes to make us stray from the earth. 12. His appearance is like a lion longing to devour, like a young lion lurking in hiding. 13. Arise, O Lord! Confront him, bring him to his knees; rescue my soul from the wicked [who serves as] Your sword. 14. Let me be among those whose death is by Your hand, O Lord, among those who die of old age, whose portion is eternal life and whose innards are filled with Your concealed goodness; who are sated with sons and leave their abundance to their offspring. 15. Because of my righteousness, I shall behold Your countenance; in the time of resurrection, I will be sated by Your image.
Tehillim Ohel Yosef YitzchakPublished and Copyright Kehot Publication Society

Guest Blog: by Lisa


The following is a blog written by my niece Lisa in Texas. Thought it was worht sharing.
Hope you enjoy it,
Danny

I just got 'the irresistible revolution: living as an ordinary radical' by Shane Claiborne for my birthday. I can't put it down. It’s one of those books where if you highlighted the essential stuff, it would glow. I am thrilled to finally hear a voice that is boldly confronting the things I’ve noticed but had received blank or nasty looks for mentioning. I’ve always considered myself an extremist - always taking things WAY farther than any of my friends. In particular - drugs, sex, and rock n roll. But now I’m doing the same thing with Christianity. There has to be a reason for why God gave me that particular quirk. Most people say I'm doing more than enough and should be satisfied. I have been told that God 'wants' us to enjoy His blessings (which is absolutely true) and that buying a big screen TV is a-ok with Him. Of course God does want us to enjoy His blessings, but I just can't justify spending money on something so extravagant and unnecessary when mothers around the world can't provide their children with clean drinking water and regular meals or shelter. Why are we given those blessings? For our own pleasure? Or are they to equip us to further His plan? I like buying the latest fashions just like the next lady, but when I think about the people who have only one outfit or none to speak of; I find it very difficult to splurge like that. I know God wants us to enjoy our life and not take it so seriously all the time, but I think our church life is way too laidback and unapologetic about the excess it 'enjoys.' I spend a lot of my time trying to figure out a way to earn money for our family so my husband won't be so stressed, and we can finally get into a house. But I struggle inwardly with it. I pray that I will find a way to reconcile my desire for the American dream with the awareness of all the NEED in the world. I want to use God's blessings to me to show the world how good God is and why they need Him. And I have such a desire to be on the front lines - immersed in the daily struggles they endure - helping them through it - offering good news of hope and restoration. I’ve actually literally lived homeless among the poor. Granted for only a small time, but it was the most wonderful opportunity to see that I AM needed and CAN help the helpless.

A lot of the comments I hear in my discussions with Christians about God reveals to me that they only know about the New Testament God, as if when the new covenant was introduced, God softened, loved more, changed. I believe that the God of the Old Testament is the same God of today and has the same desires for the world and its people. All of the rules He established so long ago are still His desire, His ideal and His will. When Jesus died and rose again, we were given the opportunity to be freed of the consequences of disobeying the old law if we believed in Him and the fact that His suffering and death on the cross paid those consequences for us. It’s as if we stole from the store, and Jesus stepped up and said “Take me to jail instead.” It’s as if we killed our brother and Jesus stepped up and said “I will pay the death penalty for him/her instead.” He didn’t commit the crime, but He paid for it out of love and obedience to His Father. He paid for all of our crimes, our sins, and He definitely didn’t deserve it. And for the most part, we have rejected His payment. We have rejected His love, His gift. Or at the very least, we have from time to time taken it for granted and allowed self-absorption to dictate our lives rather than devote our lives to Him as a thank you. How can you not want to thank Him? We love (action) because He first loved us.

I love being a mommy and a wife, but fear my children will never know need. I don't want them to ever suffer, but I do want them to see that there's more to life than who will be the next American Idol and whether to wear black or blue jeans on Friday! I want them to see that their existence isn't just about them. It’s about being available and ready for God's call on their life. There's this cartoon that I saw when I was in junior high school. It had these two turtles. One says to the other, "When I get to Heaven, first thing I'm going to do is ask God why there is so much pain and suffering in the world." The other turtle shakes his head and says, "Not me. I'm afraid He'll ask me the same question."

That’s why the current society and church (as I know it) standards leaves me so unsatisfied. I just want to do more. Jesus has given me such an opportunity to live for Him. He came to the earth as flesh and not only taught us what to do; He showed us what to do. And He died so that we COULD do it. Why wouldn’t we? What’s standing in our way? Our own lives? They’re not even ours. Christ paid for them. They are HIS! And we are standing in His way. He can’t use us the way He wants if we’re too busy driving kids to soccer practice and dance recitals and scarfing frappaccinos and being blinded by the culture. (I am way too busy with my own little stuff).

I just don't want to be complacent. I don't want to look the other way anymore. I know I need to wait, ask God for confirmation, wait some more, prepare for God’s call, and wait some more. I will and have been. But in the meantime, I don't see how I can ignore all this. I am not a Savior and cannot save the world. But I can make myself available to God for Him to use me to make some dents. It's those little dents that I think my life consists of right now - which is awesome. I am just so grateful for all God has done for me and want to thank Him. I very much enjoy my life. I just don't want to enjoy it so much that I become blind as to why I'm here. I'm not worried that God won't use me. He uses me everyday in the lives of my husband and my children. I just don't see why I couldn't do more. That's all. Maybe it is because I'm young. Or maybe the Holy Spirit is making my heart restless. Whatever it is, I am ready!

I realize that God needs people to live ordinary lives in order to accomplish His plan. And I know that I don't need to leave the country and clean the wounds of lepers in order to feel semi-satisfied with my level of service to the Lord. I just fear becoming complacent to the need of the world. I don't ever want to "put a bag over my head" and not notice that there are more painful things in the world besides gas prices (ouch!). I don't ever want to have so much noise in my life that I can't hear those little cries for help.

I'm not being hard on myself. I love what I do and feel like I'm doing the right thing on a day by day basis. (for the most part - if only I could control my rage!!!!!) I just think I can do more. I don't see why I couldn't or shouldn't. I'm just thinking it's possible that Jesus meant what He said - ALL of it.

I am desperate to die to myself and make my life available to Jesus – for Him to use me to accomplish His Father’s will. How can I do this? I am tired of pretending that my shallow version of Christianity which allows for so much ME time is what Jesus really wants. Jesus said that when He died and rose into heaven and the Holy Spirit came into our lives, that we would do the same things as He did and even greater things. I don't know many people who are doing 'greater things' or even any opportunities in the church for us to do these kinds of things. Sure we can give Christmas presents to families that don't have enough money for gifts for their kiddos, but is that really solving their money problems? Sure we can donate clothes to goodwill or the Salvation Army, but the poorest of the poor can't afford to go to goodwill and buy those clothes. And I don't feel right donating money to World Vision (although I still do) in order for 10-20 African children to have a meal or two while I continue to sit in my air conditioned house with a pantry filled to the brim with food I will likely have to throw out when the expiration date comes and goes. All of these things are wonderful and needed, but how effective are they at changing these people's lives?

I don't want to change the whole world. Well, I do, but I know that I can’t and that I’m not expected to. But just like that little boy that threw beached starfish back into the ocean as hundreds kept washing onto shore, at least it would make a difference to those few I could help. God doesn’t ask us to succeed, but He does ask us to try.

I’m tired of good intentions with no action. Good intentions don't make me an effective Christian. I’m tired of being on fire for the Lord one moment and then falling back into my self-absorbed routines the next. What kind of action could I take that would have a lasting effect with a husband and two small children in tow? I don't think I can just run off to Calcutta or Africa or China or Israel with a family. Do I really even have to leave the States in order to have a lasting effect? How can I think smaller than 'world peace' and retain my passion? Instead of giving a few people fish, I want to teach them to make their own way. Who could I do this for? What would they need essentially to thrive for generations? How could I teach them to continually gain this need for themselves?

I’m just throwing out some of my thoughts. Do you have any thoughts?

History of Iraq

The folowing text was emailed to me from Monica, my niece in Mississippi. Hope you enjoy it.
Rabbi Daniel

1. The garden of Eden was in
Iraq.

2. Mesopotamia, which is now Iraq, was the cradle of civilization!

3. Noah built the ark in Iraq.

4. The Tower of Babel was in Iraq.

5. Abraham was from Ur, which is in Southern Iraq!

6. Isaac's wife Rebekah is from Nahor, which is in Iraq !

7. Jacob met Rachel in Iraq.

8. Jonah preached in Nineveh - which is in Iraq.

9. Assyria, which is in Iraq, conquered the ten tribes of Israel.

10. Amos cried out in Iraq!

11. Babylon, which is in Iraq, destroyed Jerusalem.

12. Daniel was in the lion's den in Iraq!

13. The three Hebrew children were in the fire in Iraq (Jesus had been in Iraq also as the fourth person in the fiery furnace!)

14. Belshazzar, the King of Babylon saw the "writing on the wall" in Iraq.

15. Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, carried the Jews captive into Iraq.

16. Ezekiel preached in Iraq.

17. The wise men were from Iraq.

18. Peter preached in Iraq.

19. The "Empire of Man" described in Revelation is called Babylon, which was a city in Iraq!

And you have probably seen this one. Israel is the nation most often mentioned in the Bible. But do you know which nation is second? It is Iraq! However, that is not the name that is used in the Bible. The names used in the Bible are Babylon, Land ofShinar, and Mesopotamia. The word Mesopotamia means between the two rivers, more exactly between the Tigris and ! Euphrates Rivers. The name Iraq, means country with deep roots.

Indeed Iraq is a country with deep roots and is a very significant country in the Bible.

No other nation, except Israel, has more history and prophecy associated with it than Iraq.

And also... This is something to think about! Since America is typically represented by an eagle. Saddam should have read up on his Muslim passages...

The following verse is from the Koran, (the Islamic Bible)

Koran (9:11) - For it is written that a son of Arabia would awaken a fearsome Eagle. The wrath of the Eagle would be felt throughout the lands of Allah and lo, while some of the people trembled in despair still more rejoiced; for the wrath of the Eagle cleansed the lands of Allah; and there was peace.

(Note the verse number!) Hmmmmmmm?! God Bless you all Amen !

4/29/2006

Iyyar 5766 Day 1 Month 8 - Shabbat Shalom



TORAH Study:
When does work first appear in the creation? Genesis 1
What prompted Jacob to begin having children? Genesis 30
Why were the Egyptians fearful of the Israelites? Exodus 1
What was the census tax supposed to produce? Exodus 30
What is the affect of the burnt offering? Leviticus 1
How were the tribal leaders elected? Numbers 1
How do these rules for vows apply? Numbers 30
Why is Moses motivated to give this speech at this time? Deuteronomy 1
Where will the Instruction of God be found? Deuteronomy 30
NEVIIM Study:
What sin is the result of rebellion? Isaiah 1
Why was God’s word rejected? Isaiah 30
Why did God refuse to hear? Isaiah 59
What is the disaster from the north? Jeremiah 1
What yoke? Jeremiah 30
What does God sound like? Ezekiel 1
Why is Egypt a target? Ezekiel 30
When does this occur? Zechariah 10

KETUVIM Study:
Psalms 1 Day and night.
Psalms 2 I have fathered you
Psalms 3 My glory
Psalms 4 You alone
Psalms 5 Hear my voice
Psalms 6 Heal me
Psalms 7 assert Yourself
Psalms 8 how majestic!
Psalms 9 not always
What are the four objects of proverbs? Proverbs 1
What do we learn from common sense? Proverbs 30
What was Job’s first reaction to tragedy? Job 1
Where is his dignity? Job 30
What is futile? Ecclesiastes 1
How could Daniel make such a request? Daniel 1
What made Jehoshaphat successful? 2 Chronicles 17

BRIT CHADASHA Study:
Why does Matthew cite these generations? Matthew 1
What sources bolster Mark’s claim? Mark 1
How does Luke support his claim? Luke 1
To what does John’s claim appeal? John 1
Why does Luke write this book? Acts 1

What is the lie? Romans 1
What is the source of divisions? 1 Corinthians 1
What is the superior revelation? Hebrews 1
Who are these seven angels? Revelation 1

Why the exhortation to be attentive? 2 Timothy 4

4/28/2006

Day 30 Month 7 - Day 6 of the week

Study in TORAH:
Why was Rachel barren? Genesis 30
Is the order sacred? Exodus 30
What makes a vow obligatory? Numbers 30
How do you choose life? Deuteronomy 30

Study in NEVIIM:
How is triumph achieved? Isaiah 30
Whose king will David be? Jeremiah 30
What are the characteristics of the day of the L-RD? Ezekiel 30
Is this apocalyptic? Zechariah 9

Study in KETUVIM:
Read Psalms 145-150
Every day 145.2
All my life 146.2
Sends truth 147.15
Praise Him all 148
Let all 150.6
Proverbs 30
Where did all of the silver and gold go? 2 Chronicles 16

Study BRIT CHADASHA:
What motivated the circumcisers? Galatians 6
Whos is the enemy of obedience? Ephesians 6
2 Timothy 3

4/27/2006

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MY BIBLE STUDY BLOG http://lectioperpetua.blogspot.com/
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Day 29 Month 7 - 5th Day of the Week


Studies in TORAH:
What was the L-RD’s answer to Leah feeling neglected? Genesis 29
Why did the L-RD choose to live aming them? Exodus 29
Why on the seventh month? Numbers 29
What is wormwood? Deuteronomy 29

Studies in the NEVIIM:
What is the ”blaze of consuming fire”? Isaiah 29
What is the “redress” that is missing? Isaiah 59
When will the seventy years be over? Jeremiah 29
When will the forty years be over? Ezekiel 29
Why will the nations seek the Jew? Zechariah 8

Studies in the KETUVIM:
Read Psalms 140-144
Proverbs 29
2 Chronicles 15

4/26/2006

Day 28 Month 7 - 4th Day of the Week

The essence of the phalanx is that it works together as one entity. Each part must perform its separate task in order for it to perform properly. So too must the body of believers. The enemy's answer to this is "division." Divide and conquer. The first casualty of war is "truth."
This is the word of the Lord.

4/25/2006

Day 27 Month 7 - 3rd day of the Week



Studies from the TORAH:
Why does Isaac feel so insecure? Genesis 27
What appears to be the order of the sonctruction? Exodus 27
What is so specific about uttering the vows? Leviticus 27
What is the lesson concerning preservation? Numbers 27
What is the first order after entering the Land? Deuteronomy 27

Studies from the NEVIIM:
What are the events that mark "that day"? Isaiah 27
Whose evil causes the righteous to perish? Isaiah 57
What do the false prophets proclaim? Jeremiah 27
Why is Tyre lamented? Ezekiel 27
What was the mission of the four? Zechariah 6

Studies in the KETUVIM:
Read Psalms 120-134.
What are friends for? Proverbs 27
What is it that seperates Job from the imipous men? Job 27
What was the downfall of Rehoboam? 2 Chronicles 13

Studies from the BRIT CHADASHA:
What days is this? Matthew 27
What assurance did the angel bring to Paul? Acts 27

What was it that made the Galatians susceptible to being beguiled? Galatians 3
What reevelation compelled Paul to go to the gentiles? Ephesians 3
What brings assurance down? Colossians 3
What is the enemy of the wisdom that comes from above? James 3

What was committed to Timothy's trust? 1 Timothy 6

Quote of the Day


"Ceremonialism rapidly develops, too often in proportion to the absence of spiritual life."
The quote above is from Alfred Edersheim's The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, Book V, Chapter X, page 492.

In Proverbs we read that the The L-RD gives wisdom to the unassuming. So then, the our safeguard to a calculated devotion is to trust Him for humility.

Jesus taught us the Amidah, "lead us not to the test, but rescue us from ourselves."*

* [Matthew 6. GMV]

4/24/2006

Day 26 Month 7 - 2nd day of the week

The enemy hides in the dark.
In the dark we come after him.
And his gates will not be able to keep him safe.
This is the word of the Lord.
--Rob Shaul

Printed from Chabad.org
Lessons for Monday,April 24, 2006 - Nissan 26, 5766
Psalms for Day 26
Verses 97-176
97. O how I love Your Torah! All day it is my discussion. 98. Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies, for they are ever with me. 99. From all my teachers I have gained wisdom, for Your testimonies are my discussion. 100. I will be more perceptive than elders, because I have guarded Your precepts. 101. I have restrained my feet from every evil path, that I might keep Your word. 102. I have not turned away from Your judgments, for You have instructed me. 103. How sweet are Your words to my palate, [sweeter] than honey to my mouth! 104. From Your precepts I gain understanding, therefore I hate every path of falsehood. 105. Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. 106. I have sworn-and I will fulfill it-to keep Your righteous judgments. 107. I am afflicted to the extreme; grant me life, O Lord, according to Your promise. 108. Accept with favor, O Lord, the offerings of my lips, and teach me Your laws. 109. My soul is in danger always, yet I have not forgotten Your Torah. 110. The wicked laid a snare for me, yet I have not strayed from Your precepts. 111. I have taken Your testimonies as an eternal heritage, for they are the joy of my heart. 112. I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes, forever, to the last. 113. I despise vain thoughts, but I love Your Torah. 114. You are my refuge and my shield; I place hope in Your promise. 115. Turn away from me, you evildoers, and I will keep the commandments of my God. 116. Support me according to Your promise, and I will live; let me not be shamed because of my hope. 117. Sustain me, and I will be saved, and I will be engrossed in Your statutes always. 118. You trample all who stray from Your statutes, for their ploy is a lie. 119. You have purged all the wicked of the earth like dross, therefore I love Your testimonies. 120. My flesh bristles from fear of You, and I am in awe of Your judgments. 121. I practiced justice and righteousness; leave me not to my oppressors. 122. Guarantee Your servant goodness; let not the wicked exploit me. 123. My eyes long for Your salvation, and for the word of Your righteousness. 124. Treat Your servant according to Your kindness, and teach me Your statutes. 125. I am Your servant; grant me understanding, that I may know Your testimonies. 126. It is time to act for the Lord; they have abrogated Your Torah. 127. Therefore I love Your commandments more than gold, even fine gold. 128. Therefore I affirmed all Your precepts; I have hated every path of falsehood. 129. Your testimonies are wondrous, therefore does my soul guard them. 130. Your opening words illuminate, enlightening the simple. 131. I opened my mouth and swallowed, because I craved Your commandments. 132. Turn to me and favor me, as is [Your] law for those who love Your Name. 133. Set my steps in Your word, and let no iniquity rule over me. 134. Deliver me from the oppression of man, and I will keep Your precepts. 135. Let Your face shine upon Your servant, and teach me Your statutes. 136. My eyes shed streams of water, because they do not keep Your Torah. 137. Righteous are you, O Lord, and Your judgments are upright. 138. You commanded Your testimonies in righteousness and great faithfulness. 139. My zeal consumes me, because my enemies have forgotten Your words. 140. Your word is very pure, and Your servant cherishes it. 141. I am young and despised, yet I do not forget Your precepts. 142. Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and Your Torah is truth. 143. Trouble and anguish have taken hold of me, yet Your commandments are my delight. 144. Your testimonies are righteous forever; give me understanding, that I may live. 145. I call out with all my heart; answer me, O Lord; I will keep Your statutes. 146. I call out to You; save me, and I will observe Your testimonies. 147. I rose before dawn and cried out; my hope is in Your word. 148. My eyes preceded the night watches, that I may discuss Your word. 149. Hear my voice in keeping with Your kindness; O Lord, grant me life as is Your practice. 150. Those who pursue mischief draw near; they are far from Your Torah. 151. You are near, O Lord, and all Your commandments are truth. 152. From the beginning I discerned from Your testimonies that You had established them forever. 153. Behold my affliction and deliver me, for I have not forgotten Your Torah. 154. Wage my battle and redeem me; grant me life for the sake of Your word. 155. Salvation is far from the wicked, for they seek not Your statutes. 156. Your mercies are great, O Lord; grant me life as is Your practice. 157. My pursuers and my enemies are many, yet I did not turn away from Your testimonies. 158. I saw traitors and I quarreled with them, because they do not keep Your words. 159. Behold how I love Your precepts; grant me life, O Lord, according to Your kindness. 160. The beginning of Your word is truth, and forever are all Your righteous judgements. 161. Princes have pursued me without cause, but it is Your word my heart fears. 162. I rejoice at Your word, like one who finds abundant spoil. 163. I hate falsehood and abhor it, but Your Torah I love. 164. Seven times a day I praise You, because of Your righteous judgments. 165. There is abundant peace for those who love Your Torah, and there is no stumbling for them. 166. I hoped for Your salvation, O Lord, and I performed Your commandments. 167. My soul has kept Your testimonies, and I love them intensely. 168. I have kept Your precepts and Your testimonies, for all my ways are before You 169. Let my prayer approach Your presence, O Lord; grant me understanding according to Your word. 170. Let my supplication come before You; save me according to Your promise. 171. My lips will utter praise, for You have taught me Your statutes. 172. My tongue will echo Your word, for all Your commandments are just. 173. Let Your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen Your precepts. 174. I long for Your salvation, O Lord, and Your Torah is my delight. 175. Let my soul live, and it will praise You, and let Your judgment help me. 176. I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek out Your servant, for I have not forgotten Your commandments.
Tehillim Ohel Yosef YitzchakPublished and Copyright Kehot Publication Society

Studies in TORAH:
Why did Abimelech decide to sign a pact? Genesis 26
What was the difference between the two screens? Exodus 26
Where do pestilence, war and disease come from? Leviticus 26
Why was this census called? Numbers 26
How do you affirm G-d? Deuteronomy 26

Studies in NEVIIM:
Is this apocalyptic? Isaiah 26
What are the signs that salvation comes? Isaiah 56
What was Jeremiah's indictment? Jeremiah 26
What will be Tyre's final destruction? Ezekiel 26
Is this apocalyptic? Zechariah 5

Studies in KETUVIM:
Read Psalms 119.97-176
What are the signs of the man with no honor? Proverbs 26
What help can the unrighteous offer to the righteous? Job 26
What was the sin of Rehoboam? 2 Chronicles 12

Studies in BRIT CHADASHA:
On what night was Jesus betrayed? Matthew 26
Paul defends his indictment which is what? Acts 26

Why had Paul gone to Jerusalem? Galatians 2
Why does Paul refer to remembering the past? Ephesians 2
Where will you find assurance? Colossians 2
What kind of work is evidence of faith? James 2

Is this welfare, socialism, or both? 1 Timothy 5

4/23/2006

Day 25 Month 7 - 1st Day of the Week


You ever notice how often the Scripture refers to the enemies of God's people? They are your enemies. How does God deal with the enemy? Take it personal.

Studies from the TORAH:
Who are these two nations? Genesis 25
What was the purpose of the sanctuary? Exodus 25
What is significant about the sabbaths? Leviticus 25
What Moab's attitue about Israel historically? Numbers 25
Why is dignity and Amalek discussed together? Deuteronomy 25

Studies in the NEVIIM:
What "shroud" will be removed? Isaiah 25
What will not comeback unfulfilled? Isaiah 55
Is the end of Babylon also the end of the earth? Jeremiah 25
What was Moab's great sin? Ezekiel 25
Where does this scene occur? Zechariah 4

Studies in the KETUVIM:
Read Psalms 119:1-96
Where does honor come from? Proverbs 25
What is man's natural condition? Job 25
Why did the Levites come to Rehoboam? 2 Chronicles 11

Studies in the BRIT CHADASHA:
Is reward characterstic of the Kingdom? Matthew 25
Why was Festus trying to win favor? Acts 25

Paul contrasts what with the "other gospel"? Galatians 1
What is Paul's desire? Ephesians 1
What is Paul's prayer for the Colossians? Colossians 1
What is religion? James 1

4/22/2006

Day 24 Month 7 - Shabbat Shalom

Studies in the TORAH:
When did Abraham's servant know fo sure? Genesis 24
Why the presence of Nadab and Abihu at these events? Exodus 24
Why was the man stoned? Leviticus 24
Why did Balaam search for omens? Numbers 24
The need for peronal obligation and responsibility comes from what? Deuteronomy 24

Studies in NEVIIM:
Why has the earth become polluted? Isaiah 24
What is the assurance? Isaiah 54
Is this a reference to "election"? Jeremiah 24
What was the delight of his eyes? Ezekiel 24
What was Joshua's response to the accuser? Zechariah 24

Studies in the KETUVIM:
Whos is like the L-RD Psalms 113
What is the presenc of the L-RD?
Psalms 114
Not to us O L-RD not to us but to Thy Name bring glory Psalms 115
O L-RD save my life Psalms 116
Praise the L-RD all you nations Psalms 117
I will see the downfall of my foes Psalms 118
Is there more than one way to build a house? Proverbs 24
What is Job's contention concerning man's tendency? Job 24
Why did Rehoboam give a harsh reply? 2 Chronicles 10

Studies in the BRIT CHADASHA:
Why does Jesus relate this story? Matthew 24
Should they have expected to find the body? Luke 24
What was Terullus' accusation? Acts 24
What are the jobs of these positions? 1 Timothy 3

4/21/2006

Day 23 Month 7

Studies in TORAH:
Why this specific burial site? Genesis 23
Which commandments are alluded to here? Exodus 23
How were set times determined? Leviticus 23
What was Balak hoping for? Numbers 23

Studies in the NEVIIM:
How did Tyre sell herself out? Isaiah 23
What does it mean "taken away"? Isaiah 53
What event surpasses the exodus? Jeremiah 23
Why did she ignore her lovers? Ezekiel 23
Who are Asdod's people? Zecharia 2

Studies in KETUVIM:
With God we shall triumph Psalm 108
My accusers will be clothed in shame Psalms 109
You people come forward willingly on your day of battle Psalms 110
Praise of Him is everlasting Psalms 111
Happy is the man who fears the L-RD Psalms 112
How does your appetite affect your wisdom? Proverbs 23
Does Job see himsel as God does? Job 23
What impressed Sheba the most? 2 Chronicles 9

Studies in Brit Chadasha:
Do what they say not what they do... Matthew 23
Why is this become a civil matter? Luke 23
Did Paul perceive the outcome? Acts 23

How does the judaizer answer the question of the new creature? Galatians 6
Disobedience opens the door to what? Ephesians 6
This exhortation appeals for what? 1 Timothy 2

4/20/2006

Day 22 Month 7

Studies inTORAH:
What made Isaac the favored son? Genesis 22
What was the focus of these particular laws? Exodus 22
How specific is the attention given to offerings? Leviticus 22
What did Balak recognise about Israel? Numbers 22
What kind of respect is alluded to here? Deuteronomy 22


Studies in the NEVIIM:
Where was their hope placed? Isaiah 22
Whos is this who is at hand? Isaiah 52
What is just and right? Jeremiah 22
How specific and calculated was the destruction? Jeremiah 52
How did the leaders profane God? Ezekiel 22
When does the seventy year curse end? Zechariah 1

Studies in the Ketuvim:
Praise the L-RD for He is good Psalms 106
Praise the L-RD for He is good Psalms 107
What creates good repute? Proverbs 22
Is the motive of Job in question? Job 22
What was the reach of Solomon's power? 2 Chronicles 8


Studies in the BRIT CHADASHA:
What is the difference between the called and chosen? Matthew 22
Why the strife over position now? Luke 22
What was disputible about Paul's message? Acts 22
Is this the end of the curse questioned in Zecharia? Revelation 22


What does righteousness look like? Galatians 5
How dochildren follow? Ephesians 5
When do results of work become evident? James 5


What doctrine was he to focus on? 1 Timothy 1

Go to Hell

There are few infamous people who have something profound to say. But in this case I think the Presiden of Iran said it in a profound way:
"Our answer to those who are angry about Iran obtaining the full nuclear cycle is one phrase. We say: Be angry, and die of this anger."
MAHMOUD AHMADINEJAD, President of Iran, following his announcement that Iran had successfully enriched uranium
And I think his meaning is clear too. He speaks for Islam, I'm afraid.
Enjoy,
Danny

4/19/2006

Day 21 Month 7

TORAH STUDY:
Why did Ishmael have to become a great nation? Genesis 21
What is freedom? Exodus 21
Why the restrictions on priests? Leviticus 21
Why wasn't Arad given terms? Numbers 21
What is an affront to God? Deuteronomy 21


NEVIIM STUDY:
Who are these warnings for? Isaiah 21
Who is happy with this news? Isaiah 51
How did he reply to Zedekiah's plee for intercession? Jeremiah 21
Does Babylon know who this "destructive wind" is?Jeremiah 51
Who is this prince of Israel? Ezekiel 21
Is he talking about the end? Haggai 2

KETHUVIM STUDY:
Psalms 104 Bless the L-RD, O my soul
Psalms 105 Praise the L-RD, call on His name
How does the mind respond? Proverbs 21
Are the righteous right to complain about the wicked prospering? Job 21
How does Solomon's Temple testify to God? 2 Chronicles 7

BRIT CHADASHA STUDY:
The scrutiny of Jesus is a metaphor for what? Matthew 21
What is futility? Luke 21
This visit to the sea recalls what? John 21
What conclusion is reached at Jerusalem? Acts 21
How is this new heaven and new earth distinct? Revelation 21

How does the child differ from its servant? Galatians 4
What is the worthy walk? Ephesians 4Lack of wisdom results in what? Colossians 4

What is the solution for wicked unreasonable men? 2 Thessalonians 3

DONATIONS


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ALL GIFTS ARE TAX-DEDUCTIBLE.

Sincerely,
Danny

4/18/2006

Day 20 Month 7


Studies in the TORAH:
What made Abraham an intercessor? Genesis 20
Was Joseph's request prophetic? Genesis 50
What was the safeguard from straying? Exodus 20
What is profanity? Leviticus 20
How did Moses fail to sanctify God? Numbers 20
Why must the enemy be proscribed? Deuteronomy 20

Studies in the NEVIIM:
What did Israel learn in Egypt? Isaiah 20
What is comfort and assurance? Isaiah 50
What does this dirge indicate? Jeremiah 20
Is this a new covenant? Jeremiah 50
What news did the inquiring elders receive? Ezekiel 20
Why was prosperity held? Haggai 1

Studies in the KHETUVIM:
The L-RD is king! - Psalms 97
Sing to the L-RD a new song - Psalms 98
The L-RD enthroned on cherubim is king - Psalms 99
Raise a shout for the L-RD all the earth - Psalms 100
Each morning I will destroy all the wicked - Psalms 101
O L-RD hear my prayer - Psalms 102
Bless the L-RD O my soul - Psalms 103
What is the meaning of wisdom? Proverbs 20
Where does his reaoning come from? Job 20
How is this prayer all encompassing? 2 Chronicles 6

Studies in the BRIT CHADASHAH:
What is the lesson about status? Matthew 20
Where does authority come from? Luke 20
What were the signs of the resurrection? John 20
Why was Paul going to Jerusalem? Acts 20
How many judgments are there? Revelation 20

Whos is under the law? Galatians 3
How does the mystery concern Gentiles? Ephesians 3
What are the affections not from above? Colossians 3
Why is the sign of wisdom? James 3

What is pleasing about the gospel? 2 Thessalonians 2

4/17/2006

Day 19 Month 7


Studies in the BRIT CHADASHAH
What is adultery? Matthew 19
Why did Jesus pass through Jericho? Luke 19
How doe John emphasize the passion of Jesus? John 19
Why was Paul concerned about their knowledge of the Holy Spirit? Acts 19
What is being observed here? Revelation 19

What moved Paul to go to Jerusalem? Galatians 2
What happens to strangers and foreigners? Ephesians 2
What goal does Paul have in mind for the Colossians? Colossians 2
What is the evidence of unrighteousness? James 2

What is exemplary about the Thessalonians? 1 Thessalonians 1

Studies in the TORAH:
Why had the men of Sodom and Gomorrah accepted Lot? Genesis 19
Why is this blessing made prophetic? Genesis 49
How did God consecrate Moses? Exodus 19
Why are we to be holy? Leviticus 19
Why were the ashes kept? Number 19
Why must the manslayer be protected? Deuteronomy 19

Studies in the NEVIIM:
How will Egypt recognize God’s Judgment? Isaiah 19
Who are “these settlers”? Isaiah 49
What was the sin of Judah? Jeremiah 19
What are the sins of these nations? Jeremiah 49
Who are these beasts? Ezekiel 19

Studies in the KHETUVIM:
Psalms 90 From eternity to eternity You are God
Psalms 91 O you who dwell in the shelter of the Most High
Psalms 92 It is good to praise the L-RD
Psalms 93 The L-RD is king
Psalms 94 God of retribution
Psalms 95 Come, let us sing joyously to the L-RD
Psalms 96 Sing to the L-RD a new song
Psalms for Day 18

Chapter 88
The psalmist weeps and laments bitterly over the maladies and suffering Israel endures in exile, which he describes in detail.
1. A song, a psalm by the sons of Korach, for the Conductor, upon the machalat le'anot; 1 a maskil2 for Heiman the Ezrachite.
2. O Lord, God of my deliverance, by day I cried out [to You], by night I [offer my prayer] before You. 3. Let my prayer come before You; turn Your ear to my supplication. 4. For my soul is sated with affliction, and my life has reached the grave. 5. I was reckoned with those who go down to the pit, I was like a man without strength. 6. [I am regarded] among the dead who are free, like corpses lying in the grave, of whom You are not yet mindful, who are yet cut off by Your hand. 7. You have put me into the lowest pit, into the darkest places, into the depths. 8. Your wrath has weighed heavily upon me, and all the waves [of Your fury] have constantly afflicted me. 9. You have estranged my friends from me, You have made me abhorrent to them; I am imprisoned and unable to leave. 10. My eye is afflicted because of distress; I call to You, O Lord, every day; I have stretched out my hands [in prayer] to You. 11. Do You perform wonders for the deceased? Do the dead stand to offer You praise? Selah. 12. Is Your kindness recounted in the grave, your faithfulness in the place of perdition? 13. Are Your wondrous deeds known in the darkness [of the grave], or Your righteousness in the land of oblivion? 14. But, I, to You, O Lord, I cry; each morning my prayer comes before You. 15. Why, O Lord, do You forsake my soul? Why do You conceal Your countenance from Me? 16. From my youth I have been afflicted and approaching death, yet I have borne the fear of You which is firmly established within me. 17. Your furies have passed over me; Your terrors have cut me down. 18. They have engulfed me like water all day long, they all together surrounded me. 19. You have estranged from me beloved and friend; I have been rejected by my intimates.

FOOTNOTES
1.
A musical instrument(Metzudot).
2.
A psalm intended to enlighten and impart knowledge(Metzudot).

4/15/2006

Day 17 Month 7




Psalms for Day 17
Chapter 83
A prayer regarding the wars against Israel in the days of Jehoshaphat, when the nations plotted against Israel.
1. A song, a psalm by Asaph. 2. O God, do not be silent; do not be quiet and do not be still, O God. 3. For behold, Your enemies are in uproar, and those who hate You have raised their head. 4. They plot deviously against Your nation, and conspire against those sheltered by You. 5. They say, "Come, let us sever them from nationhood, and the name of Israel will be remembered no more.” 6. For they conspire with a unanimous heart, they made a covenant against You- 7. the tents of Edom and the Ishmaelites, Moab and the Hagrites, 8. Geval and Ammon, and Amalek; Philistia with the inhabitants of Tyre. 9. Assyria, too, joined with them, and became the strength of the sons of Lot, Selah. 10. Do to them as to Midian; as to Sisera and Yavin at the brook of Kishon, 11. who were destroyed at Ein Dor, and were as dung for the earth. 12. Make their nobles like Orev and Ze'ev, all their princes like Zevach and Tzalmuna,
1 13. who said, "Let us inherit the dwellings of God for ourselves.” 14. My God, make them like whirling chaff, like straw before the wind. 15. As a fire consumes the forest, and a flame sets the mountains ablaze, 16. so pursue them with Your tempest and terrify them with Your storm. 17. Fill their faces with shame, and they will seek Your Name, O Lord. 18. Let them be shamed and terrified forever; let them be disgraced and perish. 19. And they will know that You, Whose Name is the Lord, are alone, Most High over all the earth.
FOOTNOTES
1.
These were the Midianite leaders who were captured (see Judges 7:25)

4/14/2006

Day 16 Month 7


Psalms for Day 16
Chapter 79
In this psalm, Asaph thanks God for sparing the people and directing His wrath upon the wood and stones (of the Temple). Still he cries bitterly, mourning the immense destruction: The place where the High Priest alone was allowed to enter-and only on Yom Kippur-is now so desolate that foxes stroll through it!
1. A psalm by Asaph. O God, nations have entered Your inheritance, they defiled Your Holy Sanctuary; they turned Jerusalem into heaps of rubble. 2. They have rendered the corpses of Your servants as food for the birds of heaven, the flesh of Your pious ones for the beasts of the earth. 3. They spilled their blood like water around Jerusalem, and there is no one to bury [them]. 4. We became the object of disgrace to our neighbors, ridicule and scorn to those around us. 5. Until when, O Lord! Will You be angry forever? Will Your jealousy burn like fire? 6. Pour Your wrath upon the nations that do not know You, upon the kingdoms that do not call Your Name, 7. for they devoured Jacob and desolated His abode. 8. Do not recall our former sins; let Your mercies come swiftly towards us, for we have fallen very low. 9. Help us, God of our deliverance, for the sake of the glory of Your Name; save us and pardon our sins for the sake of Your Name. 10. Why should the nations say, "Where is their God?" Let there be known among the nations, before our eyes, the retribution of the spilled blood of Your servants. 11. Let the groan of the prisoner come before You; liberate those condemned to death, as befits the greatness of Your strength. 12. Repay our neighbors sevenfold into their bosom, for the disgrace with which they reviled You, O Lord. 13. And we, Your people, the flock of Your pasture, will thank You forever; for all generations we will recount Your praise.

4/13/2006

Semper Paratus


COAST GUARD AUXILIARY PRESENTED WITH SPECIAL AWARD FROM ASSOCIATION FOR RESCUE AT SEA

Coast Guard Headquarters, Washington DC: On 11 April, 2006, the Association for Rescue at Sea (AFRAS) http://www.afras.org, awarded an AFRAS Silver Medal to the National Commodore of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary for the heroic efforts of Coast Guard Auxiliary personnel during hurricanes Katrina and Rita.AFRAS also awarded the Gold Medal to the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard for their heroic efforts. Both medals were presented in a glass enclosed cases as tokens of recognition to all members of the Coast Guard.AFRAS generally award their gold medal to an enlisted member of the United States Coast Guard for an act of extraordinary bravery during a rescue at sea and the silver medal, likewise, is awarded to a Coast Guard Auxiliarist who has performed a rescue under the same criteria as that for a USCG enlisted person. (The silver is to denote the uniform markings of a CG Auxiliarist as opposed to the gold of the USCG).For the extreme competency and outstanding heroics of such a large portion of the Coast Guard Auxiliary that took place before, during and after the hurricanes in 2005, AFRAS has chosen to make a special presentation of these prestigious medals to the Auxiliary as a whole. Many of these men and women performed these actions while knowing that their own homes and families had also been devastated by Rita and Katrina.Along with the medals, AFRAS also presented a check for $5,000 to Operation Life Ring http://www.operationlifering.org which supports both the Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Auxiliary members who have experienced a personal loss such as those during the hurricanes.The Association for Rescue at Sea (AFRAS) is a non-profit foundation with charitable status, which supports services concerned with saving lives at sea. The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is composed of uniformed, non-military volunteer's who assist the Coast Guard in all of its varied missions, except for military and direct law enforcement. These men and women can be found on the nation's waterways, in the air, in classrooms and on the dock, performing Maritime Domain Awareness patrols, safety patrols, vessel safety checks and public education. The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary was founded in 1939 by an Act of Congress as the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve and re-designated as the Auxiliary in 1941. Its 30,000 members donate millions of hours annually in support of Coast Guard missions.

Day 15 Month 7 - Second Passover


Psalms 77
I cry aloud to God;
I cry to God that He may give ear to me.
In my time of distress I turn to the Lord,
with my hand [uplifted];
[my eyes] flow all night without respite;
I will not be comforted.
I call God to mind, I moan,
I complain, my spirit fails.
You have held my eyelids open;
I am overwrought, I cannot speak.
My thoughts turn to days of old,
to years long past.
I recall at night their jibes at me;
I commune with myself;
my spirit inquires,
“Will the Lord reject forever
and never again show favor?
Has His faithfulness disappeared forever?
Will His promise be unfulfilled for all time?
Has God forgotten how to pity?
Has He in anger stifled His compassion?” Selah.
And I said, “It is my fault
that the right hand of the Most High has changed.”
I recall the deeds of the Lord;
yes, I recall Your wonders of old;
I recount all Your works;
I speak of Your acts.
O God, Your ways are holiness;
what god is as great as God?
You are the God who works wonders;
You have manifested Your strength among the peoples.
By Your arm You redeemed Your people,
the children of Jacob and Joseph. Selah.
The waters saw You, O God,
the waters saw You and were convulsed;
the very deep quaked as well.
Clouds streamed water;
the heavens rumbled;
Your arrows flew about;
Your thunder rumbled like wheels;
lightning lit up the world;
the earth quaked and trembled.
Your way was through the sea,
Your path, through the mighty waters;
Your tracks could not be seen.
You led Your people like a flock
in the care of Moses and Aaron.


Studies in TORAH:
Why was it necessary to sojourn in a strange land? Genesis 15
How is this story eschatological? Genesis 45
How long did Israel go without grumbling? Exodus 15
What is distinctive about these impurities? Leviticus 15
What is the reminder? Numbers 15
What constitutes a mase thought? Deuteronomy 15

Studies in the NEVIIM:
Is this a dirge? Isaiah 15
Why does the Creator create? Isaiah 45
When is repentance too late? Jeremiah 15
What comes from the disaster of the flesh? Jeremiah 45
Will the L-RD change His mind? Ezekiel 15
What are these instructions for? Ezekiel 45
What is Habakkuk's complaint? Habakkuk 2

Studies in the KETHUVIM:
Read Psalms 77-78
Does one choose to be foolish? Proverbs 15
Where does wisdom come from? Job 15
Why a second census? 2 Chronicles 2

Studies in the BRIT CHADASHAH:
Matthew 15
Mark 15
Luke 15
What is the sign that we abide in Christ? John 15
What argument does Simeon use against circumcision? Acts 15
How are we to be llike Christ? Romans 15
Why is the resurrection so central to faith? 1 Corinthians 15
When do these plagues occur? Revelation 15
How do you demonstrate your work? Galatians 5
How do you follow God? Ephesians 5
Be patient for what? James 5
What excuse prompts Paul's opponents? Philippians 1

4/12/2006

Day 14 Month 7 - Erev Pesach



Psalms for Day 14
Chapter 72
David composed this psalm for Solomon, praying that he be granted the wisdom to provide justice for the poor.
1. For Solomon. O God, impart Your justice to the king, and Your righteousness to the son of the king. 2. May he judge Your people with righteousness, Your poor with justice. 3. May the mountains bear peace to the nation, also the hills, in [reward for their] righteousness. 4. May he judge the nation's poor, save the children of the destitute, and crush the oppressor, 5. so that they will fear You as long as the sun [shines] and the moon endures, generation after generation. 6. May [his words] descend like rain upon cut grass, like raindrops that water the earth. 7. In his days may the righteous flourish, with much peace until the moon is no more. 8. And may he rule from sea to sea, and from the river until the ends of the earth. 9. May nobles kneel before him, and may his enemies lick the dust. 10. The kings of Tarshish and the islands will return tribute, the kings of Sheba and Seba will offer gifts. 11. All kings will bow to him, all nations will serve him; 12. for he rescues the needy one who cries out, the poor one who has no one to help him. 13. He pities the impoverished and needy, and saves the souls of the destitute. 14. He redeems their soul from deception and violence, and their blood is precious in his eyes. 15. He revives [the poor], and gives him of the gold of Sheba; and so [the poor] pray for him always, and bless him all day. 16. May there be abundant grain in the land, upon the mountaintops; may its fruit rustle like the [cedars of] Lebanon, and may [people] blossom from the city like the grass of the earth. 17. May his name endure forever; may his name be magnified as long as the sun [shines]. And all nations will bless themselves by him, they will praise him. 18. Blessed is the Lord God, the God of Israel, Who alone performs wonders. 19. Blessed is His glorious Name forever, and may the whole earth be filled with His glory, Amen and Amen. 20. The prayers of David, son of Jesse, are concluded
1
FOOTNOTES
1.
David composed this psalm at the end of his lifetime.
[source: http://www.chabad.org/dailystudy/tehillim.asp?tDate=4/12/2006]

4/11/2006

Day 13 Month - Search for Chametz



Psalms for Day 13
Chapter 69
1. For the Conductor, on the shoshanim,
1 by David.
2. Deliver me, O God, for the waters have reached until my soul! 3. I have sunk in muddy depths without foothold; I have come into deep waters, and the current sweeps me away. 4. I am wearied by my crying, my throat is parched; my eyes pined while waiting for my God. 5. More numerous than the hairs on my head are those who hate me without reason. Mighty are those who would cut me off, those who are my enemies without cause. What I have not stolen, I will then have to return. 6. O God, You know my folly, and my wrongs are not hidden from You. 7. Let not those who hope in You be shamed through me, O my Lord, God of Hosts; let not those who seek You be disgraced through me, O God of Israel, 8. because for Your sake I have borne humiliation, disgrace covers my face. 9. I have become a stranger to my brothers, an alien to my mother's sons, 10. for the envy of Your House has consumed me, and the humiliations of those who scorn You have fallen upon me. 11. And I wept while my soul fasted, and it was a humiliation to me. 12. I made sackcloth my garment, and became a byword for them. 13. Those who sit by the gate speak of me, and [of me] are the songs of drunkards. 14. May my prayer to You, Lord, be at a gracious time; God, in Your abounding kindness, answer me with Your true deliverance. 15. Rescue me from the mire, so that I not sink; let me be saved from my enemies and from deep waters. 16. Let not the current of water sweep me away, nor the deep swallow me; and let not the pit close its mouth over me. 17. Answer me, Lord, for Your kindness is good; according to Your abundant mercies, turn to me. 18. Do not hide Your face from Your servant, for I am in distress-hurry to answer me. 19. Draw near to my soul and liberate it; redeem me, so that my enemies [not feel triumphant]. 20. You know my humiliation, my shame, and my disgrace; all my tormentors are before You. 21. Humiliation has broken my heart, and I have become ill. I longed for comfort, but there was none; for consolers, but I did not find. 22. They put gall into my food, and for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink. 23. Let their table become a trap before them, and [their] serenity, a snare. 24. Let their eyes be darkened so that they cannot see, and let their loins continually falter. 25. Pour Your wrath upon them, and let the fierceness of Your anger overtake them. 26. Let their palace be desolate, let there be no dweller in their tents, 27. for they persecute the one whom You struck, and tell of the pain of Your wounded ones. 28. Add iniquity to their iniquity, and let them not enter into Your righteousness. 29. May they be erased from the Book of Life, and let them not be inscribed with the righteous. 30. But I am poor and in pain; let Your deliverance, O God, streng-then me. 31. I will praise the Name of God with song, I will extol Him with thanksgiving! 32. And it will please the Lord more than [the sacrifice of] a mature bull with horns and hooves. 33. The humble will see it and rejoice; you seekers of God, [see] and your hearts will come alive. 34. For the Lord listens to the needy, and He does not despise His prisoners. 35. Let heaven and earth praise Him, the seas and all that moves within them, 36. for God will deliver Zion and build the cities of Judah, and they will settle there and possess it; 37. and the seed of His servants will inherit it, and those who love His Name will dwell in it.
FOOTNOTES
1.
A musical instrument shaped like a shoshana, a rose (Metzudot).
[source: http://www.chabad.org/dailystudy/tehillim.asp?tDate=4/11/2006]
Studies from Today's Torah portion:
What was so attractive about Sodom and Gomorrah? Genesis 13
Why did they chose not to rescue Simeon? Genesis 43
Every first-born life was sacrificed to God with one exception. What was the exception? Exodus 13
What is significant about these particular impurities? Leviticus 13
Whay was Hoshea's name changed? Numbers 13
What purpose do false teachers serve? Deuteronomy 13
From the Neviim:
When does the "Day of the L-RD" occur? Isaiah 13
What is the servant's message? Isaiah 43
What ruined the heart of Judah and Jerusalem? Jeremiah 13
What was the result of the flight into Egypt? Jeremiah 43
What was the source for the false prophets? Ezekiel 13
Who was coming from the east? Ezekiel 43
Who is Nineveh? Nahum 3
From the Khetuvim:
Read Psalms 69-71.
What becomes of the son who is not taught? Proverbs 13
What is the difference between Job's opinion and their opinion? Job 13
What is prophetic about this prayer? 1 Chronicles 29
From the Brit Chadashah: