The topic for this Sunday and the next will be God installing all authority on earth – kings, princes, presidents, dictators, despots . . . all of them. So, as some background, this post will contain two subjects that relate to that topic.

God Intervenes in the Affairs of Men

Daniel 4
⁴ I, Nebuchadnezzar, was at rest in my house, and flourishing in my palace. ⁵ I saw a dream which made me afraid, and the thoughts on my bed and the visions of my head troubled me. ⁶ Therefore I issued a decree to bring in all the wise men of Babylon before me, that they might make known to me the interpretation of the dream. ⁷ Then the magicians, the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers came in, and I told them the dream; but they did not make known to me its interpretation. ⁸ But at last Daniel came before me (his name is Belteshazzar, according to the name of my god; in him is the Spirit of the Holy God), and I told the dream before him, saying: ⁹ “Belteshazzar, chief of the magicians, because I know that the Spirit of the Holy God is in you, and no secret troubles you, explain to me the visions of my dream that I have seen, and its interpretation.

¹⁰ “These were the visions of my head while on my bed:

I was looking, and behold,
A tree in the midst of the earth,
And its height was great.
¹¹ The tree grew and became strong;
Its height reached to the heavens,
And it could be seen to the ends of all the earth.
¹² Its leaves were lovely,
Its fruit abundant,
And in it was food for all.
The beasts of the field found shade under it,
The birds of the heavens dwelt in its branches,
And all flesh was fed from it.

¹³ “I saw in the visions of my head while on my bed, and there was a watcher, a holy one, coming down from heaven. ¹⁴ He cried aloud and said thus:

‘Chop down the tree and cut off its branches,
Strip off its leaves and scatter its fruit.
Let the beasts get out from under it,
And the birds from its branches.
¹⁵ Nevertheless leave the stump and roots in the earth,
Bound with a band of iron and bronze,
In the tender grass of the field.
Let it be wet with the dew of heaven,
And let him graze with the beasts
On the grass of the earth.
¹⁶ Let his heart be changed from that of a man,
Let him be given the heart of a beast,
And let seven times pass over him.

¹⁷ ‘This decision is by the decree of the watchers,
And the sentence by the word of the holy ones,
In order that the living may know
That the Most High rules in the kingdom of men,
Gives it to whomever He will,
And sets over it the lowest of men.’

¹⁸ “This dream I, King Nebuchadnezzar, have seen. Now you, Belteshazzar, declare its interpretation, since all the wise men of my kingdom are not able to make known to me the interpretation; but you are able, for the Spirit of the Holy God is in you.”

Daniel Explains the Second Dream

¹⁹ Then Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, was astonished for a time, and his thoughts troubled him. So the king spoke, and said, “Belteshazzar, do not let the dream or its interpretation trouble you.”

Belteshazzar answered and said, “My lord, may the dream concern those who hate you, and its interpretation concern your enemies!

²⁰ “The tree that you saw, which grew and became strong, whose height reached to the heavens and which could be seen by all the earth, ²¹ whose leaves were lovely and its fruit abundant, in which was food for all, under which the beasts of the field dwelt, and in whose branches the birds of the heaven had their home— ²² it is you, O king, who have grown and become strong; for your greatness has grown and reaches to the heavens, and your dominion to the end of the earth.

²³ “And inasmuch as the king saw a watcher, a holy one, coming down from heaven and saying, ‘Chop down the tree and destroy it, but leave its stump and roots in the earth, bound with a band of iron and bronze in the tender grass of the field; let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let him graze with the beasts of the field, till seven times pass over him’; ²⁴ this is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree of the Most High, which has come upon my lord the king: ²⁵ They shall drive you from men, your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and they shall make you eat grass like oxen. They shall wet you with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over you, till you know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses.

²⁶ “And inasmuch as they gave the command to leave the stump and roots of the tree, your kingdom shall be assured to you, after you come to know that Heaven rules. ²⁷ Therefore, O king, let my advice be acceptable to you; break off your sins by being righteous, and your iniquities by showing mercy to the poor. Perhaps there may be a lengthening of your prosperity.”

Nebuchadnezzar’s Humiliation

²⁸ All this came upon King Nebuchadnezzar. ²⁹ At the end of the twelve months he was walking about the royal palace of Babylon. ³⁰ The king spoke, saying, “Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for a royal dwelling by my mighty power and for the honor of my majesty?”

³¹ While the word was still in the king’s mouth, a voice fell from heaven: “King Nebuchadnezzar, to you it is spoken: the kingdom has departed from you! ³² And they shall drive you from men, and your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field. They shall make you eat grass like oxen; and seven times shall pass over you, until you know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses.”

³³ That very hour the word was fulfilled concerning Nebuchadnezzar; he was driven from men and ate grass like oxen; his body was wet with the dew of heaven till his hair had grown like eagles’ feathers and his nails like birds’ claws.

Nebuchadnezzar Praises God

³⁴ And at the end of the time I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my eyes to heaven, and my understanding returned to me; and I blessed the Most High and praised and honored Him who lives forever:

For His dominion is an everlasting dominion,
And His kingdom is from generation to generation.
³⁵ All the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing;
He does according to His will in the army of heaven
And among the inhabitants of the earth.
No one can restrain His hand
Or say to Him, “What have You done?”

³⁶ At the same time my reason returned to me, and for the glory of my kingdom, my honor and splendor returned to me. My counselors and nobles resorted to me, I was restored to my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added to me. ³⁷ Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, all of whose works are truth, and His ways justice. And those who walk in pride He is able to put down.

God Governs in the Affairs of Men

In 1787 at the Federal Convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at a critical juncture in the writing of the U.S. Constitution, Benjamin Franklin addressed the President of the Convention: “I have lived, Sir, a long time; and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth, That God governs in the affairs of men! We have been assured, Sir, in the Sacred Writings, that ‘except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it!’ [Psalm 127:1]

I firmly believe this; and I also believe that without His concurring aid we shall succeed in this political building no better than the builders of Babel; we shall be divided by our little partial local interests, our projects will be confounded, and we ourselves shall become a reproach and a by-word down to future ages. And, what is worse, mankind may hereafter, from this unfortunate instance despair of establishing government by human wisdom, and leave it to chance, war and conquest.

“I therefore beg leave to move, that henceforth prayers, imploring the assistance of heaven, and its blessings on our deliberations, be held in this Assembly every morning and that one of more of the clergy of this city be requested to officiate in that service.”

*http://www.learnthebible.org/thoughts-meditations/god-governs-in-the-affairs-of-men.html

This Sanctuary Sunday Open Thread, with full respect to those who worship God on the Sabbath, is a place to reaffirm our worship of our Creator, our Father, our King Eternal.

It is also a place to read, post and discuss news that is worth knowing and sharing. Please post links to any news stories that you use as sources or quote from.

In the QTree, we’re a friendly and civil lot. We encourage free speech and the open exchange and civil discussion of different ideas. Topics aren’t constrained, and sound logic is highly encouraged, all built on a solid foundation of truth and established facts.

We have a policy of mutual respect, shown by civility. Civility encourages discussions, promotes objectivity and rational thought in discourse, and camaraderie in the participants – characteristics we strive toward in our Q Tree community.

Please show respect and consideration for our fellow QTreepers. Before hitting the “post” button, please proofread your post and make sure you’re addressing the issue only, and not trying to confront the poster. Keep to the topic – avoid “you” and “your”. Here in The Q Tree, personal attacks, name calling, ridicule, insults, baiting and other conduct for which a penalty flag would be thrown are VERBOTEN.

In The Q Tree, we’re compatriots, sitting around the campfire, roasting hot dogs, making s’mores and discussing, agreeing, and disagreeing about whatever interests us. This board will remain a home for those who seek respectful conversations.

Please also consider the Guidelines for posting and discussion , outlined here https://wqth.wordpress.com/2019/01/01/dear-maga-open-topic-20190101/

Let’s not give the Internet Censors a reason to shut down this intellectual haven that Wolf has created for us.

---

The Storm is upon us.
Please remember to Pray for our President.

---

AND WHAT TIME IS IT?
TIME TO DRAIN THE SWAMP!!!

It’s time to replace
a failed and CORRUPT political establishment
with a new government
controlled by you, the American People.
~ Candidate Donald J. Trump

---

Also remember Wheatie’s Rules:

1. No food fights.
2. No running with scissors.
3. If you bring snacks, bring enough for everyone.

---

And,

---

On this day and every day –

God is in Control
. . . and His Grace is Sufficient, so . . .
Keep Looking Up

---

Hopefully, every Sunday, we can find something here that will build us up a little . . . give us a smile . . . and add some joy or peace, very much needed in all our lives.

“This day is holy to the Lord your God;
do not mourn nor weep.” . . .
“Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet,
and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared;
for this day is holy to our Lord.
Do not sorrow,
for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

---

First Things First

This is the time of year when many of us think about making some resolutions for the new year, even though we know that our efforts, in general, will meet with something short of success in far less time than we would have imagined.

So, what is it that we might put on our “shoot for success but miss” list for 2021? The most popular New Year’s resolutions seem to deal with something that will improve us personally: exercise more, lose weight, get organized, learn a new skill or hobby, live life to the fullest, save more money / spend less money, quit smoking, spend more time with family and friends, travel more, or read more.

Now, if we look at this situation as Christians, and we are, we would want to choose New Year’s resolutions that would benefit us in our Christian walk . . . such as work at developing more characteristics like those of the Fruit of the Spirit, read and study the Bible more, improve my prayer life, get involved in more church activities or be a better witness.

All those are well and good, but if we think of our lives as Christians, we wouldn’t want to choose resolutions that make sense to us but, rather, we’d choose resolutions that reflect what God wants for us.

Attempting to accomplish all things that God’s Word says Christians should be and do is a very large task, and it reminds me of making a list of things that we think are good things to do and then working off the items that are on the list. I don’t think this is what God wants to see from us. I think He wants, rather than us working off a list, is for us to change our hearts, so that the items on the list come naturally as a result.

So, thinking about resolutions this way, perhaps the items we need to concentrate on aren’t on a giant list of thousands, but could be summed up by the two greatest commandments: to love God with all our heart, mind and soul and to love our neighbors as ourselves.

I think we’re narrowing in on our answer here. We need to concentrate on developing love in our Christian walk . . . specifically, agapé love, love that is a motivation for action that we are free to choose or reject.  Agapé is a sacrificial love that voluntarily suffers inconvenience, discomfort, and even death for the benefit of another without expecting anything in return.

So, what does that specifically mean . . . to agapé God? I think it means that we should go out of our way to do what God wants, for His glory, even though at the time we may feel that it isn’t something we necessarily want to do.

And agapé our neighbors? Agapé love is patient and kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Agapé love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Agapé love never fails. This is how we should treat those around us.

But, once again, I think I’m missing something important here. Developing more agapé love in my Christian walk is undoubtedly very important, but is that what God thinks is paramount?

Well, we go to God’s Word for the answer here. What better place to go to find out what God wants. First things must come first. So . . . what’s first?

In the sermon on the mount, Jesus, although speaking about not having anxiety over even the essentials of our lives (our food, something to drink and adequate clothing), gives us a clear priority: “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness . . .”

So, OK, just what is this Kingdom of God that we’re supposed to seek first? Again from God’s Word:

“For the kingdom of God is . . . a matter of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit . . .” Righteousness first, then peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

Naturally, the question arises, “How do I go about getting this righteousness?” I know that it’s not inherent in me, and I’m certainly not showing righteousness by all that I do in the world today.

Back to God’s Word. “not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith— ” .

The concept of faith counted as righteousness is not a new concept. Way back in Genesis, “Abram had faith in the Lord, and He credited it to him as righteousness.”, and “For therein is revealed a righteousness of God from faith unto faith: as it is written, But the righteous shall live by faith.”

So, our righteousness comes from faith in Christ and in God. We are to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and not lean on our own understanding.

Christ and the Holy Spirit are within us . . . Christ our righteousness reconciles our sinful nature with God and God’s Holy Spirit works within us to change us, well, probably in every way on our giant list of thousands . . . and more.

So, for me, my New Year’s resolution is to acknowledge Him as supreme in every facet of my life and trust Him to make those changes in me that He sees fit . . . to give the things of the world in my life to God, trusting that He will ensure that “. . . all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

Now, this can’t be a “state it and forget” it resolution. My part, with the proddings and support of the Holy Spirit, is to continually recognize that it is God who is in control of my life, always, in every way, and to trust Him to lead me down the proper paths.

An interesting concept, but not without some difficulties, as also may be true with our understanding of some details of Luke’s narrative of the birth of Christ.

MIGDAL EDER – THE TOWER OF THE FLOCK

One of the most powerful statements in the biblical narratives on the birth of Christ is the proclamation made by the angel to shepherds in the fields outside Bethlehem.

“Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:10-12)

It was a first declaration of the euangelion, the Good News of the redemptive Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is remarkable to see that this first declaration made to Israelites outside the immediate family of Jesus was not given to the religious or political rulers of Israel but to shepherds keeping their flocks.

The shepherds’ fields outside Bethlehem, to this day, play a central role in the Christmas celebrations in the Holy Land. Countless tourists have visited the fields between Bethlehem and Jerusalem. The church historian Eusebius linked these fields to a unique biblical location called Migdal Eder, which translated means the “tower of the flock”.

The first time Migdal Eder is mentioned in the Bible is in the account of Rachel, who died after giving birth to Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob. “Then Israel journeyed and pitched his tent beyond the tower of Eder”, records Genesis 35:21.

This area on the outskirts of Bethlehem is also mentioned in the Talmudic writings. According to the Talmud, all cattle found in the area surrounding Jerusalem “as far as Migdal Eder” were deemed to be holy and consecrated and could only be used for sacrifices in the Temple, in particular for the peace and Passover sacrifices. There was thus a special, consecrated circle around the city of Jerusalem.

This means the shepherds in the fields of Bethlehem who first heard the Good News from the angels were not ordinary shepherds but served the sacrificial system of the Temple. These men served the Mosaic covenant, a foreshadowing of the new covenant. And these men were now confronted with the reality of the eternal light to which their ministry had been pointing all these centuries. It was declaring a new era of salvation!

The Hebrew prophet Micah also refers to Migdal Eder. “And you, O tower of the flock, the stronghold of the daughter of Zion, to you shall it come, even the former dominion shall come, the kingdom of the daughter of Jerusalem.” (Micah 4:8)

Based on that prophecy, prominent Jewish writers concluded in the Midrash that from all of the places in Israel, it would be the Migdal Eder where the arrival of the Messiah would be declared first.

That means when the angels appeared that night to the shepherds in the fields outside Bethlehem, it was not just a declaration of the Good News to simple shepherds. It was a powerful prophetic sign to all of Israel. The news of that night must have spread like wildfire through the surrounding villages.

Luke records: “Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds.” (Luke 2:17-18)

What does this all mean for us?

1)  First, it is always beneficial for the Church to see that Jesus did not arrive into a vacuum, but was born into an entirely Jewish context. When Christ came in the flesh, he was born first-and-foremost to the Jewish people but would then also bring his favour and good pleasure to all men. Even though the celebration of Christ’s birth has become a feast marked almost exclusively by the gentile Church, it is important for us to see it in its historic and biblical context – as a message intended to give hope to Israel. As Zacharias prophesies at the birth of John the Baptist, this all happened to “perform the mercy promised to our fathers and to remember His holy covenant, the oath which He swore to our father Abraham…” (Luke 1:72f).

2)  Second, already from the moment Jesus entered the world the ultimate reason for his arrival was alluded to. These were the shepherds who took care of the sheep and cattle offered in the Temple – in particular the Passover sacrifices. And it was they who were confronted with the announcement that the ultimate sacrifice, which would carry away not only the sins of Israel but of the whole world, was born. Just thirty three years later, no further sacrifice was to be needed, as all those who believe in him have been “sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all” (Hebrews 10:10).

3)  The angelic announcement gave these simple shepherds a profound revelation of who this Messiah would be. He was proclaimed to be both King (born in the city of David) and Priest. That he was both Christ and Lord, the son of man but also the son of God. He would be the saviour of humanity but also the shepherd of all those who would follow his voice.

It was truly good news which the angels proclaimed that night long ago. But as with the shepherds, the mere knowledge of this news is not enough. They needed to act upon it and they did. They went personally to see that child and then proclaimed his birth wherever they could.

Let us follow the example of the shepherds of Bethlehem and rededicate our lives afresh to that great saviour who was born in Bethlehem. He is the shepherd of our souls (1 Peter 2:25) who died for our sins and who redeems us to reign and rule with him for eternity! This is Good News indeed!

*https://int.icej.org/news/commentary/tower-flock

I think, over the recent past, that I’ve heard enough, maybe too much, of the events concerning the enormous voting fraud, and the sedition and treason involved. The seemingly endless details, sometimes conflicting, and their various interpretations; the admonitions of what the President should have done or should do; and the various predictions of the events of the future and their specific consequences have overflowed my retention capacity.

God has made it abundantly clear from His Word that He is in control of these matters, and that they will, ultimately, work out for the good of those that love Him. Ultimately . . . not necessarily what we may see or desire . . . but ultimately and all in accordance with His perfect plan.

I find it calming, comforting and reassuring to step back, up and out, of the morass of the details of the day and into some of the more basic concepts of God’s Word. So that’s what I’m going to do for today . . . just let God’s Word speak to us for a bit.

---

Ecclesiastes 1:12-18
I, the Preacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. And I set my heart to seek and search out by wisdom concerning all that is done under heaven; this burdensome task God has given to the sons of man, by which they may be afflicted. I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and indeed, all is vanity and grasping for the wind.
What is crooked cannot be made straight, and what is lacking cannot be numbered.
I communed with my heart, saying, “Look, I have attained greatness, and have gained more wisdom than all who were before me in Jerusalem. My heart has understood great wisdom and knowledge.” And I set my heart to know wisdom and to know madness and folly. I perceived that this also is grasping for the wind.
For in much wisdom is much grief, and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow.

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14
And moreover, because the Preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yes, he pondered and sought out and set in order many proverbs. The Preacher sought to find acceptable words; and what was written was upright—words of truth. The words of the wise are like goads, and the words of scholars are like well-driven nails, given by one Shepherd. And further, my son, be admonished by these. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is wearisome to the flesh.
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter:
Respect God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all.
For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.

Micah 6:8 He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?

Psalm 1
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.
He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.
The ungodly are not so, but are like the chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
For the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Psalm 100
Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.

1 Thessolonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Philippians 4:4-6
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Revelation 22:18-20
For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming quickly.”
Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!

What we’re fighting for

Oh beautiful for spacious skies
For amber waves of grain
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain

America, America!
God shed His grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea

Oh beautiful for pilgrim feet
Whose stern impassioned stress
A thoroughfare of freedom beat
Across the wilderness

America, America
God mend thine every flaw
Confirm thy soul in self-control
Thy liberty in law

Oh beautiful for heroes proved
In liberating strife
Who more than self their country loved
And mercy more than life

America, America
May God thy gold refine
Till all success be nobleness
And every gain divine

Oh beautiful for patriot dream
That sees beyond the years
Thine alabaster cities gleam
Undimmed by human tears

America, America
God shed His grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea

Oh beautiful for spacious skies
For amber waves of grain
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain

America, America
God shed His grace on thee
Till souls wax fair as earth and air
And music hearted sea

Oh beautiful for pilgrims feet
Whose stem impassioned stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat
Across the wilderness

America, America
God shed His grace on thee
Till paths be wrought through wilds of thought
By pilgrim foot and knee

Oh beautiful for glory tale
Of liberating strife
When once and twice for man’s avail
Men lavished precious life

America, America
God shed His grace on thee
Till selfish gain no longer stain
The banner of the free

Oh beautiful for patriot dream
That sees beyond the years
Thine alabaster cities gleam
Undimmed by human tears

America, America
God shed His grace on thee
Till nobler men keep once again
Thy whiter jubilee

How the battle will be won!

Mine eyes have seen the glory
Of the coming of the Lord;
He is trampling out the vintage
Where the grapes of wrath are stored;
He hath loosed the fateful lightning
Of His terrible swift sword;
His truth is marching on.

Chorus
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
His truth is marching on.

I have seen Him in the watchfires
Of a hundred circling camps
They have builded Him an altar
In the evening dews and damps;
I can read His righteous sentence
By the dim and flaring lamps;
His day is marching on.

Chorus
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
His truth is marching on.

He has sounded forth the trumpet
That shall never call retreat;
He is sifting out the hearts of men
Before His judgement seat;
Oh, be swift, my soul, to answer Him;
Be jubilant, my feet;
Our God is marching on.

Chorus
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
His truth is marching on.

In the beauty of the lilies
Christ was born across the sea,
With a glory in His bosom
That transfigures you and me;
As He died to make men holy,
Let us die to make men free;
While God is marching on.

Chorus
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
His truth is marching on.

This Sanctuary Sunday Open Thread, with full respect to those who worship God on the Sabbath, is a place to reaffirm our worship of our Creator, our Father, our King Eternal.

It is also a place to read, post and discuss news that is worth knowing and sharing. Please post links to any news stories that you use as sources or quote from.

In the QTree, we’re a friendly and civil lot. We encourage free speech and the open exchange and civil discussion of different ideas. Topics aren’t constrained, and sound logic is highly encouraged, all built on a solid foundation of truth and established facts.

We have a policy of mutual respect, shown by civility. Civility encourages discussions, promotes objectivity and rational thought in discourse, and camaraderie in the participants – characteristics we strive toward in our Q Tree community.

Please show respect and consideration for our fellow QTreepers. Before hitting the “post” button, please proofread your post and make sure you’re addressing the issue only, and not trying to confront the poster. Keep to the topic – avoid “you” and “your”. Here in The Q Tree, personal attacks, name calling, ridicule, insults, baiting and other conduct for which a penalty flag would be thrown are VERBOTEN.

In The Q Tree, we’re compatriots, sitting around the campfire, roasting hot dogs, making s’mores and discussing, agreeing, and disagreeing about whatever interests us. This board will remain a home for those who seek respectful conversations.

Please also consider the Guidelines for posting and discussion , outlined here https://wqth.wordpress.com/2019/01/01/dear-maga-open-topic-20190101/

Let’s not give the Internet Censors a reason to shut down this intellectual haven that Wolf has created for us.

---

The Storm is upon us.
Please remember to Pray for our President.

---

AND WHAT TIME IS IT?
TIME TO DRAIN THE SWAMP!!!

It’s time to replace
a failed and CORRUPT political establishment
with a new government
controlled by you, the American People.
~ Candidate Donald J. Trump

---

Also remember Wheatie’s Rules:

1. No food fights.
2. No running with scissors.
3. If you bring snacks, bring enough for everyone.

---

And,

---

On this day and every day –

God is in Control
. . . and His Grace is Sufficient, so . . .
Keep Looking Up

---

Hopefully, every Sunday, we can find something here that will build us up a little . . . give us a smile . . . and add some joy or peace, very much needed in all our lives.

“This day is holy to the Lord your God;
do not mourn nor weep.” . . .
“Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet,
and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared;
for this day is holy to our Lord.
Do not sorrow,
for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

---

JOSEPH

As Christmas approaches, once again the prominent parts of the Christmas story take front and center: the visit of the angel Gabriel, Mary’s visit to Elizabeth, the trip to Bethlehem, nowhere to stay, the manger, the host of angels, the shepherds and their visit to the manger, Simeon and Anna, the star, the wise men, the escape to Egypt, the return to Israel and then to Nazareth.

A part of the Christmas story I think could stand a closer examination is Joseph, who comes to prominence as the husband of Mary. I think his character and actions should be front and center as a role model for a host of Christians.

The Bible doesn’t have a lot to say about Joseph, but what it does say speaks volumes.

The first is that Joseph was a righteous man. By this I take it that Joseph did all that was required, and perhaps more, by the Jewish religious law of the time. That he was righteous, to me, means his actions were from his heart . . . not just actions to satisfy some religious requirement.

Joseph obeyed God. Through dreams, God told Joseph that he should
1. Take Mary as his wife.
2. Flee with Mary and Jesus to Egypt.
3. Return from Egypt.
4. Beware of Archelaus (so he went to Nazareth)

Joseph had no questions, didn’t ask for a sign, and didn’t object. He simply believed and obeyed – and that obedience involved traveling with Mary . . . to Bethlehem, to Egypt, back to Israel and then to Nazareth.

Other than those instances, Joseph worked, apparently quietly, as a carpenter, raising Jesus and his brothers and sisters and, also apparently, dying just 30 years or less later.

So, Joseph was a righteous man . . . that is a very big pole in the tent. That means Joseph was doing God’s will . . . doing what’s pleasing to God.

When we trust Jesus as our Savior, God sees our faith as righteousness.

2 Corinthians 5:21 He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

1 Corinthians 1:30 But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption,

When God looks at us, He sees Christ’s righteousness . . . but that doesn’t mean we can rest on our laurels. We are still called to “Be perfect, therefore, as your Heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48) This is an impossible task for us, but it, nevertheless, with the help of the Holy Spirit, is our goal.

Joseph listened to God and then did what God said. God speaks primarily to us through His Word, and by reading God’s Word we are “listening” to Him. It is now up to us, with help from the Holy Spirit, to put what God tells us into action.

Joseph’s profession was that of a carpenter. And He, apparently, did his work in such a manner that it was pleasing to God. Our work, too, falls under God’s will.

As Bondservants in Christ, “whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. ” Colossians 3:23-24

1 Corinthians 4:10-11 But we urge you, brethren, that you increase [your love] more and more; that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your own hands . . .

Strive for righteousness, read God’s Word and act on it, lead a quiet life, mind your own affairs, and do your work as to the Lord. I would say that Joseph has given us quite a role model to follow.

We should keep Joseph well in mind as we get caught up in the “Be all you can be” and even the “Be Best” of the frenetic lifestyle that is pushed our way these days.

Perhaps “Be still and know that I am God” should be first in our minds these days . . . particularly in these days.

And, never ever forget that:
1. We are passing through a temporary kingdom on the way to an eternal kingdom.
2. GOD WINS ! ! !

Go Out in Joy and Be Led Forth in Peace

“For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.” – Isaiah 55:12

Chapter 55 of Isaiah is rightfully named “The Compassion of the Lord.” At this point in the book of Isaiah, God’s people have been completely disobedient, but God the Father is a God of grace and compassion, so he invites them into his lovingkindness. He is restoring them so they may glorify him once again and he is blessing his people.

Verse 12 specifically commands the people to go out in joy and be led forth in peace. Why does God ask this and how do we, as believers, do this?

Go Out in Joy

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

As Christians, we are called to be joyful, which is not a natural thing for us to do as human beings. However, when we understand God’s love and his constant grace, joy becomes easier. When we truly understand God’s grace and seek him, we will find joy.

There are two reasons we are called to go out in joy in this passage: For our own sake and the world’s. When we choose to rejoice in our circumstances, our circumstances seem to change. Life is easier to tackle when you choose a positive and joyous perspective rooted in a trust for God and his promises.

“May the God of hope fill you all with joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” – Romans 15:13

Furthermore, going out in joy benefits others. The world should be able to recognize a Christian by how they love and by the joy they have. This is not to say that Christians should always act happy and pretend everything is okay – being joyful is different than being happy. Joy is trusting in what God is doing and recognizing that he has a plan. Being joyful means not letting your circumstances crush you. To choose joy is to choose hope.

The idea is that the world sees that our circumstances aren’t crushing us and asks us why. Then we can answer with the glorious news of how good our God is and the hope that we have. When we go out in joy, we allow our own souls to grow and shine the light of Christ simultaneously.

Be Led Forth in Peace

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33

Christians, there is so much peace in truly knowing God. If you were to read the Bible cover to cover, you would walk away with quite a bit of peace and calmness in your heart. God created you (Genesis 1:27), he forgives you (Ephesians 4:32), he saved you (Ephesians 2:8), he promises to protect you (Isaiah 41:10), he has a plan for you (Jeremiah 29:11), he is coming back one day (John 14:3) and he loves you so dearly (1 John 4:9-10).

When we allow Christ to lead us and guide our steps and our hearts, we find peace. There is peace in obedience and relationship with God. This does not mean that anxiety or fear ceases to exist though. The world is still corrupt and the enemy still exists, but when we cling to God and obey him, we will find his peace (Isaiah 32:17).

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7

When we truly have the peace of God, we stop needing answers for everything, we stop having to worry about everything going on in the world and we can simply trust in him and what is to come. When we seek his heart, we find peace, an inexplicable peace that will guide us through this life and all the trials we face.

*https://www.gcu.edu/blog/spiritual-life/weekly-devotional-go-out-joy-and-be-led-forth-peace

This Sanctuary Sunday Open Thread, with full respect to those who worship God on the Sabbath, is a place to reaffirm our worship of our Creator, our Father, our King Eternal.

It is also a place to read, post and discuss news that is worth knowing and sharing. Please post links to any news stories that you use as sources or quote from.

In the QTree, we’re a friendly and civil lot. We encourage free speech and the open exchange and civil discussion of different ideas. Topics aren’t constrained, and sound logic is highly encouraged, all built on a solid foundation of truth and established facts.

We have a policy of mutual respect, shown by civility. Civility encourages discussions, promotes objectivity and rational thought in discourse, and camaraderie in the participants – characteristics we strive toward in our Q Tree community.

Please show respect and consideration for our fellow QTreepers. Before hitting the “post” button, please proofread your post and make sure you’re addressing the issue only, and not trying to confront the poster. Keep to the topic – avoid “you” and “your”. Here in The Q Tree, personal attacks, name calling, ridicule, insults, baiting and other conduct for which a penalty flag would be thrown are VERBOTEN.

In The Q Tree, we’re compatriots, sitting around the campfire, roasting hot dogs, making s’mores and discussing, agreeing, and disagreeing about whatever interests us. This board will remain a home for those who seek respectful conversations.

Please also consider the Guidelines for posting and discussion , outlined here https://wqth.wordpress.com/2019/01/01/dear-maga-open-topic-20190101/

Let’s not give the Internet Censors a reason to shut down this intellectual haven that Wolf has created for us.

---

The Storm is upon us.
Please remember to Pray for our President.

---

AND WHAT TIME IS IT?
TIME TO DRAIN THE SWAMP!!!

It’s time to replace
a failed and CORRUPT political establishment
with a new government
controlled by you, the American People.
~ Candidate Donald J. Trump

---

Also remember Wheatie’s Rules:

1. No food fights.
2. No running with scissors.
3. If you bring snacks, bring enough for everyone.

---

And,

---

On this day and every day –

God is in Control
. . . and His Grace is Sufficient, so . . .
Keep Looking Up

---

Hopefully, every Sunday, we can find something here that will build us up a little . . . give us a smile . . . and add some joy or peace, very much needed in all our lives.

“This day is holy to the Lord your God;
do not mourn nor weep.” . . .
“Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet,
and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared;
for this day is holy to our Lord.
Do not sorrow,
for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

---

Aahhhh! It’s Christmas season again. And we have the Christmas movies, carols and poems, letters to Santa, Santa himself, the North Pole, elves, the 8 reindeer and Rudolph, Frosty the snowman, the Grinch, the lights, our Christmas trees, the other activities associated with Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and, in some parts of the country, the snow . . . the beautiful, white snow that covers all with is glistening blanket of white. But, (yes, there is a but) . . .

As wonderful as all of these things are, they tend to obscure the true meaning of Christmas . . . more to some people and less to others. The actual events leading to and surrounding the birth of Jesus, the prophecies, the visit of the angel Gabriel, Mary’s visit to Elizabeth, the trip to Bethlehem, nowhere to stay, the manger, the host of angels, the shepherds and their visit to the manger, the star, the wise men, the flight to Egypt, and other events. But, (yes, there is another but) . . .

As necessary as all these things are to understand the birth of Jesus, what I’d like to bring to mind are three aspects of the events of the birth of Jesus that may tend to be overlooked during the Christmas season.

The first aspect is that all the events of Jesus’ birth were of the Will of the Father, by the Power of the Father, and all, all of this, is because of the love of the Father for us and for His Son, Jesus. And it was important to Jesus that we knew that He was sent by His Father.

“I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me” (John 17:8).

“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me” (John 17:20–21).

“O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me” (John 17:25).

The second aspect is, as we get lost in the wonder of the night of Jesus’ birth, it comes as a shock that we remember the reason for His birth is so He can die a horrible death on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins.

 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.  (John 3:16)

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.  (Romans 6:23)

For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.  (2 Corinthians 5:21)

The third aspect is that Jesus died on the cross resulting in the forgiving of sins for those who believe, all for the Glory of the Father,

“Father, the hour has come,” he prays. “Glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent” (John 17:1-3).

Whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (Peter 4:11)

Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.” (Isaiah 43:7)

And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:11)

For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen. (Romans 11:36)

Filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. (Philippians 1:11)

And he said with a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come, and worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water.” (Revelation 14:7)

That God, the Father is preeminent in the birth, life and death of Jesus, including His resurrection is no surprise. Neither is the fact that Jesus was born so that He could die (and be raised). Nor that all of this, and every good that ever was, is and will be is to the glory of God, the Father.

Let these aspects be three more reasons to express our joy during this Christmas season!

Wait for the Lord

No matter that it seems like we’re waiting on President Trump, or Sidney Powell or Lin Wood or AG Barr or the Federal and Supreme Courts . . . or whoever . . . we’re really waiting for God, the LORD, to show his power in righting the wrong that has become or Presidential election.

So far, I have a good deal of confidence in President Trump, a fair amount in Attorneys Powell and Wood, but less in AG Barr.

But, I must, we must, hold total confidence in God in this matter. We know God put President Trump and others in positions of authority for His purposes. We know God is omniscient and omnipotent and that His plan is perfect, ultimately working for the good of those who love Him.

Now, here’s the rub. We also know that God’s ways are not our ways and that we have no hope of understanding His specific plans for our future. We must, however, hold our faith in God and wait for Him . . . and pray.

We have no other choice.

Psalm 130 

¹ Out of the depths I have cried to You, O Lord;
² Lord, hear my voice!
Let Your ears be attentive
To the voice of my supplications.

³ If You, Lord, should mark iniquities,
O Lord, who could stand?
⁴ But there is forgiveness with You,
That You may be feared.

⁵ I wait for the Lord, my soul waits,
And in His word I do hope.
⁶ My soul waits for the Lord
More than those who watch for the morning—
Yes, more than those who watch for the morning.

⁷ O Israel, hope in the Lord;
For with the Lord there is mercy,
And with Him is abundant redemption.
⁸ And He shall redeem Israel
From all his iniquities.

Psalm 27 

¹ The Lord is my light and my salvation;
Whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the strength of my life;
Of whom shall I be afraid?
² When the wicked came against me
To eat up my flesh,
My enemies and foes,
They stumbled and fell.
³ Though an army may encamp against me,
My heart shall not fear;
Though war may rise against me,
In this I will be confident.

⁴ One thing I have desired of the Lord,
That will I seek:
That I may dwell in the house of the Lord
All the days of my life,
To behold the beauty of the Lord,
And to inquire in His temple.
⁵ For in the time of trouble
He shall hide me in His pavilion;
In the secret place of His tabernacle
He shall hide me;
He shall set me high upon a rock.

⁶ And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me;
Therefore I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle;
I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord.

⁷ Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice!
Have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
⁸ When You said, “Seek My face,”
My heart said to You, “Your face, Lord, I will seek.”
⁹ Do not hide Your face from me;
Do not turn Your servant away in anger;
You have been my help;
Do not leave me nor forsake me,
O God of my salvation.
¹⁰ When my father and my mother forsake me,
Then the Lord will take care of me.

¹¹ Teach me Your way, O Lord,
And lead me in a smooth path, because of my enemies.
¹² Do not deliver me to the will of my adversaries;
For false witnesses have risen against me,
And such as breathe out violence.
¹³ I would have lost heart, unless I had believed
That I would see the goodness of the Lord
In the land of the living.

¹⁴ Wait on the Lord;
Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart;
Wait, I say, on the Lord!

Never Be Discouraged
There is really nothing we need to know
or even try to understand.
If we refuse to be discouraged
and trust God’s guiding hand.
So take heart and meet each minute
with faith in God’s great love,
Aware that every day of life
is controlled by God above…
And never dread tomorrow
or what the future brings,
Just pray for strength and courage
and trust God in all things.
And never grow discouraged
be patient and just wait
for “God never comes too early
and He never comes too late!”
Helen Steiner Rice

Patience
Most of the battles of life are won
By looking beyond the clouds to the sun
And having the patience to wait for the day
When the sun comes out and the clouds float away
Helen Steiner Rice

---

CALLING ALL KRAKENS!!!

That is all.