Saturday, May 7, 2011

GOD'S ETERNAL PLAN

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Read Numbers 20:1–12;   Deuteronomy 32:48–52;   34:1–8;   Matthew 17:1–8
      Then the LORD said to him, "This is the land I promised… I have let you see it with your eyes, but you will not cross over into it.”  Deuteronomy 34:4 NIV
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      Moses was a leader and prophet like no other, but in his anger at the people he made a fatal mistake: God had instructed Moses, "Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water." But instead of speaking to the rock, Moses struck the rock twice with his staff and said to them, "Listen, you rebels, must we bring you water out of this rock?" (Numbers 20:8, 10) God was the miracle worker and Moses failed to give Him the glory – an offence which shortened his life.
      The good news is that this is not the end of Moses' story. We see him again in the New Testament on the Mount of Transfiguration speaking with Elijah and Jesus. Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, If you wish, I will put up three shelters–one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah." While he was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them and a Voice said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!" When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus. (Matthew 17:4–5, 8)
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      Thank You Lord that Your plan for us goes far beyond this life, and that Jesus paid the price for all the times we have failed to honor You. One day we will stand with Moses and Elijah and all of those who have trusted in You. In that day, with sins forgiven, we will give all the glory to You.
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      They lay their crowns before the throne and say: "You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power…” Revelation 4:10b–11a NIV

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